EP4671141A2

EP4671141A2 - PACKING MACHINE FOR PACKING POUCH SUBSTRATES

Info

Publication number: EP4671141A2
Application number: EP25183460.2A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Leone Francesco NARDON
Original assignee: Sitec Srl
Current assignee: Sitec Srl
Priority date: 2024-06-27
Filing date: 2025-06-17
Publication date: 2025-12-31

Abstract

Packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers, comprising a support frame (2), defining an inlet section (3) for at least one group (G) of bag wrappers and an outlet section (4) for a package (C) containing a plurality of groups (G) of bag wrappers; handling means (5), configured to move said at least one group (G) of bag wrappers from said inlet section (3); a support group (6) comprising at least one support base (7) movable along a loading direction (X) intended to be placed across a package (C) between a first opening (C1) and a second opening (C2) opposite to said first opening (C1) and configured to receive said group (G) of bag wrappers from said handling means (5); said support base of said support group (6) being movable along said loading direction (X) between a raised position, in which said support base (7) is configured to be placed in proximity to said first opening (C1) of said package (C) and a lowered position, wherein it is configured to be placed in proximity to said second opening (C2) of said package (C), to support a plurality of said groups (G) of bag wrappers stacked together inside said package (C) and thus create said package of bag wrappers.

Description

Scope of the invention

The present invention concerns a packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers.
More specifically, the present invention relates to a machine configured to group bag wrappers, such as paper bags, inside a box or the like to allow for their easy transportation.
The machine in question is advantageously configured to accommodate neat stacks of bag wrappers inside at least one package.
Therefore, the present invention finds advantageous use in the technical sector of the production and marketing of packaging machines and more specifically in the technical sector of the production and marketing of substantially automatic machines for packaging together a plurality of products arranged in neat stacks.

State of the art

In the relevant technical sector, packaging machines are known, and in particular machines for packaging bag wrappers.
The term "bag wrappers" shall be understood, within the meaning of this patent application, to mean a substantially flexible container shaped like a bag, for example made of paper, or plastic or similar material, intended to contain additional products, for example food products or the like.
Known in the sector are, for example, bag wrappers made of substantially paper and/or plastic material (for example in the form of film) intended to contain bakery products.
In the relevant sector, it is known to stack groups of bag wrappers and then wrap them with a layer of flexible material, usually plastic, to create a package of bag wrappers, suitable for shipping.
In the reference sector, it is also common to pack stacks of bag wrappers inside boxes or similar containers, to increase ease of transport and reduce the use of plastic packaging materials.
As is known, bag wrappers are equipped with an opening for the entry of the products to be contained and a bottom, opposite the entry opening, created by fastening, usually by welding or gluing, two opposing flaps. This fastening of the overlapping flaps defines a greater thickness with respect to the thickness of the opening.
In this situation, by placing bag wrappers side by side, for example to create a vertical stack, a stack of bag wrappers is obtained with a greater height at the bottoms of the bag wrappers than at the openings, due to the greater thickness of the bottoms, which is accentuated when stacked.
In practice, this stack has proven difficult to package and transport due to its irregular shape, making it difficult to store with other stacks.
A further drawback is that the stack of bag wrappers thus formed is difficult to fit into a box for packaging.
Therefore, in the packaging machinery sector, it is well known that it is necessary to stack bag wrappers in a so-called staggered manner, i.e., stacking groups of bag wrappers arranged alternately and rotated by 180°.
In other words, it is known in the relevant industry to stack groups of alternately rotated bag wrappers, so that the bottoms of the wrappers of a first group are positioned above the openings of the bag wrappers of a second group below them and vice versa, in particular to obtain a stack of groups of bag wrappers of substantially uniform height.
For this purpose, several packaging machines are known that can stack groups of bag wrappers rotated 180° in an alternate manner.
An example of a packaging machine known in the relevant technical industry is provided with a conveyor belt suitable for transporting the bag wrappers along one direction of movement.
Typically, the bag wrappers are loaded onto the machine's conveyor belt in groups comprising a plurality of bag wrappers stacked vertically in the same direction. The groups of bag wrappers are loaded onto the conveyor belt in succession, one group following the other.
This known machine comprises a rotating platform located at the intersection of the conveyor belt and designed to rotate a group of bag wrappers 180° with respect to the previous and subsequent ones, thus creating a column of groups of bag wrappers rotated 180° with respect to each other in an alternating manner.
This known machine also comprises a mobile platform located at the exit section of the conveyor belt and configured to receive the groups of bag wrappers.
This mobile platform can be moved vertically downwards to receive a new group of bag wrappers, allowing the next group to stack on top of the previous one. In this way, the groups of bag wrappers stack on top of each other, each rotated 180° with respect to the previous and subsequent ones.
Subsequently, the known machine provides for packing the stack of groups of bag wrappers inside a package, such as a cardboard box or a layer of flexible plastic material.
More specifically, the moving platform of the known machine includes two or more shelves that move horizontally between a support position, in which they intercept the group of bag wrappers, and a release position, in which the shelves free a channel for the group of bag wrappers to fall downwards.
The known machine therefore lowers the groups of bag wrappers by alternating the shelves between the support position and the release position, causing the wrappers to fall in a controlled manner from one shelf to the one below.
The known machine briefly described thus far has proven to be not without drawbacks in practice.
A first drawback is that setting up a conveyor belt is very complex to implement.
A further drawback is that the groups of bag wrappers are left free to fall between one shelf and the next. As a result of the free fall, the bag wrappers often shifts, creating an uneven and disorganized stack.
This eventuality results in an inability to insert the stack into the box and/or incorrect insertion, requiring operator intervention.
Obviously, the above leads to an unwanted increase in costs and packaging times.
A further drawback is that the known type of machine is very bulky and difficult to install.
A further drawback is that the known type of machine is very expensive to manufacture, which translates into a high selling price.

Presentation of the invention

The purpose of the present invention is to propose a packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers that allows to fulfil, at least in part, the aforementioned needs and/or to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art above mentioned.
Obviously, the technical features of the machine according to the invention may have additional or different technical purposes and effects than those explained below, which will be clear to a person skilled in the art.
The present invention intends to overcome the aforementioned technical drawbacks by providing a packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers that allows the bag wrappers to be packaged more easily than with the prior art.
In particular, the main purpose of the present invention is to provide a packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers that allows for improved stacking of bag wrappers to be packaged.
A further object of the present invention is to provide a packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers that ensures the correct packaging of stacks of bag wrappers inside packages, particularly inside boxes.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers that is both economically advantageous and technically completely reliable.
A further object of the present invention is to provide a packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers that is an alternative and/or improvement over traditional solutions.
These objects, together with others that will be better explained below, are achieved by a packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers of the type according to claim 1.
Other objects that will be better described below are achieved by a machine according to the dependent claims.

Brief description of the drawings

The advantages and features of the present invention will emerge clearly from the following detailed description of some preferred but non-limiting configurations of a packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers with particular reference to the following drawings:

Figure 1 shows an axonometric view of a packaging machine according to the present invention, wherein some parts of a support frame have been removed to better show other parts of the machine;
Figure 2 shows an axonometric view of handling means of the machine illustrated in Figure 1;
Figure 3 shows an axonometric view of additional handling means of the machine according to the invention;
Figure 4 shows a further perspective view of the handling means illustrated in Figure 2;
Figure 5 shows a further perspective view of the handling means illustrated in Figure 4, during the handling of a group of bag wrappers to be packaged;
Figure 6 shows an axonometric cross-sectional view of a mobile support platform, designed to support the groups of bag wrappers inside a box to be filled;
Figure 7 shows a front cross-sectional view of the mobile support platform illustrated in Figure 6;
Figure 8 shows a front sectional view of the mobile support platform illustrated in Figures 6 and 7, wherein a first group of bag wrappers is supported by the platform and a second group of bag wrappers is transported by the handling means;
Figure 9 shows an axonometric view of a packaging machine according to the present invention, with some parts of a support frame removed to better display other parts of the machine, in a second embodiment of the latter;
Figure 10 shows a top plan view of a detail of the machine illustrated in Figure 9, in its second embodiment;
Figure 11 shows an axonometric view of the detail illustrated in Figure 10;
Figure 12 shows a further axonometric view of the detail illustrated in Figures 10 and 11, with some parts removed to better display others;
Figure 13 shows a front view of the detail illustrated in Figures 10 and 11, with some parts removed to better highlight others;
Figure 14 shows an axonometric view of a stack of groups of bag wrappers, with the packaging removed to highlight other parts of the machine according to the invention;
Figure 15 shows an axonometric view from below of a detail of the machine according to the invention, in its second embodiment, concerning a third support base in a loading position;
Figure 16 shows an axonometric view from below of a detail of the machine according to the invention, in its second embodiment, concerning a third support base in a distal position.

Detailed description of the invention

An example of a packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers according to the invention has been identified as a whole with the reference 1 in the attached figures.
The packaging machine here disclosed is advantageously used in the technical sector of the production and marketing of machines for packaging products, and in particular in the technical sector of packaging bag wrappers, such as flexible bags made of plastic and/or paper or similar materials.
The machine 1, subject of the present invention, can be advantageously applied to a larger plant for the production of bag wrappers, suitably placed downstream of suitable additional machines (not subject of the present invention and therefore not described in detail below) for producing the wrappers and/or machines for producing groups of bag wrappers stacked vertically one on top of the other.
For the purposes of this patent application, the term "bag wrapper" shall hereinafter be understood to mean a container element, preferably flexible, made of plastic and/or paper and/or similar and/or analogous materials, configured to contain at least one product within it, in particular having a main body that extends between a first end wherein an access opening is made for the insertion of the products inside it and a second end wherein a closed bottom is made, opposite the opening. The closed bottom of each bag wrapper is thicker than the opening.
Furthermore, for the purposes of this patent application, the term "group" of bag wrappers shall hereinafter be understood to mean a plurality of bag wrappers stacked vertically, one superimposed on the other with all the first ends aligned vertically and all the second ends aligned vertically. The group of bag wrappers is therefore provided with larger footprint at the second end where the closed ends are aligned, while it is provided with smaller footprint at the first end where the access openings of the plurality of the bag wrappers that compose it are aligned.
Furthermore, pursuant to this patent, the term "stack" of bag wrappers shall hereinafter be understood as a succession of vertically stacked groups, wherein each group is rotated 180° around a vertical axis with respect to the previous and subsequent groups.
In other words, in the stack of bag wrappers, the groups are stacked vertically in a staggered manner such that the openings of a first group are then covered by the closed ends of the subsequent group.
Reference will be made below to a first embodiment of the machine according to the invention, which is illustrated in the attached figures 1 - 8, and to a second embodiment of the present invention, illustrated in the attached figures 9 - 16.
All the technical features described with reference to the first embodiment must be understood as also described with reference to the second embodiment and vice versa, as it is clear to those skilled in the art that the features can be changed and/or combined even in ways not explicitly described in this description.
The packaging machine 1 for packaging bag wrappers, object of the present invention, comprises in a manner known per se at least one support frame 2.
The support frame 2 is only partially visible in the preferred embodiment illustrated in the attached figures, as many parts of the support frame have been removed to highlight other parts of the machine 1 according to the invention.
Preferably, the support frame 2 comprises a structure, for example reticular or similar, suitable for supporting and/or holding the other parts of the machine 1. For example, the frame 2 is made of metallic material, for example steel or aluminium or the like.
According to the embodiment illustrated in the attached figures 9 - 16, the support frame 2 comprises at least one columnar structure 2' configured to support handling means 5, described in detail in the following in this description.
Preferably, said columnar structure 2' can be mechanically connected and/or associated and/or constrained to the rest of the support frame 2. Otherwise, the columnar structure 2' can be substantially detached and/or disconnected with respect to the other parts of the support frame 2.
The support frame 2 defines an inlet section 3 for at least one group G of bag wrappers and an outlet section 4 for a package C containing a plurality of groups G of bag wrappers.
According to the second embodiment of the present invention, illustrated in the attached figures 9 - 16, the inlet section 3 is preferably defined in correspondence with said columnar structure 2' of the support frame 2.
With particular reference to the first embodiment of the present invention, illustrated in the attached figures 1 - 8, the inlet section 3 and the outlet section 4 are formed laterally with respect to a main extension of the machine 1.
Obviously, according to a further not illustrated embodiment, the inlet section 3 and the outlet section 4 may be provided as mirror images with respect to the one illustrated, or the inlet section 3 may be provided on the same side as the outlet section 4, without thereby departing from the scope of protection of this patent application.
According to one embodiment, the inlet section 3 is configured to allow the entry of only one group G of bag wrappers at a time to create a package C comprising a single stack of groups of bag wrappers.
According to a further embodiment, the inlet section 3 may be configured to receive two or more groups G of bag wrappers arranged side by side to thus create a corresponding package C comprising two or more stacks of groups of bag wrappers.
Differently, according to a different embodiment, the handling means 5 may be configured to pick up a single group G of bag wrappers and arrange them inside the package C to form two or more adjacent stacks of bag wrappers.
According to the invention, the machine 1 further comprises handling means 5, preferably (but not limited to) mechanically mounted on said support frame 2. The handling means 5 are configured to handle said at least one group G of bag wrappers from said inlet section 3.
Furthermore, according to the first embodiment of the present invention, the machine 1 comprises at least a first support group 6 comprising at least a first support base 7 movable along a loading direction X intended to be placed across a package C between a first opening C1 and a second opening C2 opposite to said first opening C1 and configured to receive said group G of bag wrappers from said handling means 5.
Preferably, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention illustrated in the attached figures, the package C comprises at least one box, preferably of a substantially parallelepiped shape.
With particular reference to the attached figures 6 - 8 and 15 - 16, the package C comprises at least one side wall L that internally delimits a housing volume for containing the groups G of bag wrappers.
Preferably, the side wall L of the package C extends between the first opening C1 and the second opening C2, opposite the first opening C1.
Preferably, the side wall L has a substantially prismatic shape and in particular a rectangular base, preferably it has substantially the same shape as the groups G of bag wrappers to be packaged, so as to contain substantially to size (or with mechanical clearance) at least one stack of groups G of bag wrappers.
Preferably, the package C comprises first flaps A1, mechanically constrained to the side wall L and movable between an opening configuration, wherein they define the aforementioned first opening C1, and a closing configuration, wherein they at least partially obstruct the first opening C1.
Preferably, the package C comprises second flaps A2, mechanically constrained to the side wall L and movable between an opening configuration, wherein they define the aforementioned second opening C2, and a closing configuration, wherein they at least partially obstruct the second opening C2.
According to the invention, the first support base 7 of the support group 6 is movable along said loading direction X between a raised position, in which the first support base 7 is configured to be placed in proximity to said first opening C1 of said package C and a lowered position, wherein it is configured to be placed in proximity to said second opening C2 of said package C, to support a plurality of said groups G of bag wrappers stacked together inside said package C between said first opening C1 and said second opening C2 and thus create said package of bag wrappers.
Furthermore, according to the second embodiment, the machine 1 object of the present invention may comprise a second support group 101 positioned along said loading direction X, at a higher level than said first support group 6.
In other words, the second support group 101 is arranged above the first support group 6.
More clearly, the second support group 101 is intended to be arranged above the first opening C1 of the package C and the first support group 6 is intended to be moved at least partially inside the package C between the first opening C1 (upper) and the second opening C2 (lower).
According to the present invention, said second support group comprises at least one second support base, movable between an extended configuration, in which it receives said group G of bag wrappers from handling means, and a retracted configuration, in which it releases said group G of bag wrappers onto said first support base 7 of said first support group 6.
In this way, the machine subject of the present invention allows for the correct packaging of the stack of groups G of bag wrappers to be ensured, through the controlled insertion of the groups G into the package C.
Furthermore, the machine according to the invention provides that the handling means 5 release the groups G of bag wrappers onto said second support base 102, positioned in the vicinity of the first opening C1 (in particular above or in correspondence with the opening C1 - or already beyond the opening C1 - and therefore inside the package C), avoiding any free and therefore uncontrolled fall of the groups themselves.
Operationally, the second support base 102, once it has received the group G of bag wrappers, is moved from the extended configuration to the retracted configuration, freeing the group G of bag wrappers inside the package C, in which the first support base 7 is arranged, capable of receiving the group G, minimizing the free fall of the latter and thus ensuring correct positioning of the bag wrappers in the package C.
In other words, the machine according to the invention allows for the correct arrangement of the bag wrappers inside the package C, avoiding any risk of incorrect arrangement of the bag wrappers themselves, due - in the prior art - to the free falls (at least, from non-negligible heights) of the bag wrappers during the packaging steps.
Advantageously, according to the second embodiment of the present invention, the machine 1 comprises at least a third support group 103, comprising at least a third support base 104 movable along a direction K (preferably) orthogonal to said loading direction X, between a distal position and a loading position, intercepting said loading direction X at said second opening C2 of said package C, to cooperate with said first support base 7 in a lowered position and to support said at least one group G of bag wrappers.
Preferably, the third support group 103 is arranged at a lower height than said second support group 101.
The third support group 103, in use, is intended to be arranged near (or in correspondence with) the second opening C2 of the package C.
Preferably, the third support base 104 is intended to be arranged at a lower height than the height of the second opening C2. Preferably, the linear distance (along the load direction X) between the height of the second opening C2 and the height of the third base 104 is substantially equal to the thickness (in particular measured along the load direction X) of the third base 104. In this way, as will become clear below, the third support base 104 is movable along the direction K to obstruct the second opening C2, so as to avoid the risk of intercepting the side wall L of the package C.
In this situation, the third support group 103 is intended, in use, to be positioned at a lower height than the first support base 7 of the first support group 6, which is configured to be moved at least between the first opening C1 and the second opening C2.
As will be clear below, to complete the closure of the second flaps A2 of the package C, the first support base 7 is configured to be moved further into a rest configuration, preferably at a lower height than the third support group 102 (and in particular the third support base 103).
Advantageously, said support group 6 comprises actuator means 8 mechanically connected to said first support base 7 and configured to move said first base 7 between said raised position and said lowered position, defining a plurality of intermediate positions, wherein the linear distance, parallel to said load direction X, between two intermediate positions is intended to be substantially greater than or equal to the thickness of each group G of bag wrappers.
Preferably, the actuator means 8 are configured to control the movement of the first support base 7 of the support group 6 in steps (or step-by-step) at the aforementioned intermediate positions.
More clearly, the actuator means 8 are configured to lower the first support base 7 towards a subsequent intermediate position following the release of a group G of bag wrappers by the second support base (or the handling means 5).
Advantageously, in other words, the first support base 7 is movable, between said raised position and said lowered position, in a plurality of intermediate positions.
In this way, each group G of bag wrappers released inside the package C on the first support base 7 defines a new support surface for the next group G of bag wrappers, where, preferably, said new support surface is arranged substantially in correspondence with the first opening C1 of the package C, to minimize any possible free fall of the bag wrappers, between the second support base 102 and the first support base 7 (or the support surface defined by the previous group G of bag wrappers).
Advantageously, according to the first embodiment of the present invention, the handling means 5 may comprise at least one loading group 9 configured to move said group G of bag wrappers to a loading position aligned with said first support base 7 of said support group 6 along said loading direction X.
Advantageously, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, said handling means 5 comprise at least one lifting group 10 configured to move said group G of bag wrappers along a lifting direction Y parallel to said loading direction X until reaching a height substantially equal to the height of said loading position of said load group 9.
Advantageously, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, said loading group 9 is movable at least along a transverse direction Z, orthogonal to said loading direction X and said lifting direction Y and configured to move said group G of bag wrappers from said lifting group 10 to said loading position, aligned with said first support base 7 of said support group 6.
Advantageously, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, said loading group 9 comprises at least one gripping device 11 movable between a gripping configuration, wherein it is configured to mechanically engage said group G of bag wrappers, and a releasing configuration, in which it is configured to release said group G of bag wrappers.
Advantageously, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, said gripping device 11 comprises at least two arms 12 movable towards and away from each other, parallel to said transverse direction Z, to define said gripping configuration and said releasing configuration respectively.
Advantageously, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, said lifting assembly 10 comprises at least one carriage 13 extending along a plane transverse to said lifting direction Y.
Advantageously, the lifting assembly 10 comprises at least one upright 25 extending along the lifting direction Y which slidably supports the carriage 13.
Preferably, the lifting assembly 10 comprises two uprights 25 parallel to each other which both slidably support the carriage 13.
Preferably, the carriage 13 is provided with at least one groove 14 extending parallel to said transverse direction Z and configured to be traversed by said arms 12 of said gripping device 11 of said load assembly 9.
Advantageously, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, said first support base 7 is movable between a unfolded configuration, where it extends parallel to said transverse direction Z to support said groups G of bag wrappers, and a retracted configuration, where it defines a smaller footprint, parallel to said transverse direction Z, than said unfolded configuration.
Advantageously, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the machine 1 object of the invention comprises further actuator means, configured to move at least one flap A2 of said package C to at least partially obstruct said second opening C2 of said package C and at least partially define a bottom wall for said groups G of bag wrappers.
Preferably, said at least one flap A2 delimits a passage 15 for said first support base 7 of said support group 6 in the retracted configuration.
Preferably, the handling means 5 comprise a transport group 16 configured to transport each group G of bag wrappers from the inlet section 3 to the lifting group 10.
Operationally, the transport group 16 comprises at least one second gripping device 17 configured to mechanically engage the group G of bag wrappers at the inlet section 3 and release it at the lifting group10.
More in detail, the transport group 16 comprises at least one first guide 18 on which the second gripping device 17 is slidably engaged.
The first guide 18 of the transport assembly 16 extends along a transport direction W, for example substantially horizontal, between the inlet section 3 and the lifting group 10.
The second gripping device 17 preferably comprises at least one gripper 19 configured to be moved between a gripping configuration, wherein it mechanically constrains a group G of bag wrappers, and a release configuration, wherein it releases the group G of bag wrappers.
For this purpose, the gripper 19 of the second gripping device 17 of the transport group 16 comprises two jaws 19' that move toward and away from each other to define the gripping configuration and the release configuration, respectively.
Advantageously, the transport group 16 comprises a rotation device 20 configured to rotate the second gripping device 17 around a rotation axis R.
Advantageously, the rotation device 20 allows the second gripping device 17 to align the jaws 19' of the gripper 19 with the group of bag wrappers to be handled.
In fact, the bag wrappers can be arranged side by side, extending along a substantially vertical or horizontal plane. In this way, the rotation device 20 allows the machine 1 to quickly and easily move the group G of bag wrappers, accommodating any distribution of the same.
Preferably, the rotation device comprises at least one actuator 21, for example pneumatic, configured to rotate the gripper 19, which is rotatably constrained to a second carriage 22 and capable of rotating around a pin 23 defining the aforementioned rotation axis R.
The second carriage 22 is preferably slidably constrained to the first guide 18 and can be operated to move the second gripping device 17 along the transport direction W.
Preferably, the carriage 13 of the lifting group 10 is movable (in particular vertically) along the lifting direction Y between a first position, in which the carriage 13 is at a lower height, and a second position, in which the carriage 13 is at a higher height.
The carriage 13, in its first position, is preferably arranged below the second gripping device 17 of the transport group 16, so as to receive the group G of bag wrappers from above.
Preferably, with particular reference to the attached figure 4, the second gripping device 17 protrudes from the second carriage 22 of the transport group 16 so as to be above and/or opposite and/or faced to the carriage 13 of the lifting group 10 when moved in correspondence with the latter to free the group G of bag wrappers.
Advantageously, the carriage 13 of the lifting group 10 defines an operating zone 13' configured to receive the group G of bag wrappers.
Preferably, the operating zone 13' of the carriage 13 is configured to receive the group G of bag wrappers from the transport group 16.
Preferably, the operating zone 13' of the carriage 13 is at least partially defined by the at least one groove 14.
With particular reference to the preferential embodiment of the present invention illustrated in the attached figure 5, the gripping device 11 of the loading group 9 comprises a plurality of first arms 12' parallel to each other and a plurality of second arms 12" also parallel to each other, the first plurality of arms 12' is movable towards and away from the plurality of second arms 12" (and/or vice versa) to define said gripping configuration and said release configuration respectively.
Preferably, the carriage 13 of the lifting group 10 is provided with a plurality of grooves 14, extending parallel to each other as well as parallel to said transverse direction Z and configured to be traversed by said plurality of first arms 12' and said plurality of second arms 12" of said gripping device 11 of said load assembly 9.
More in detail, with the carriage 13 in the second position (at a higher height and, preferably, substantially equal to the height of the loading position of the loading group 9), the arms 12 of the gripping device 11 of the loading group 9 traverse the grooves 14.
Preferably, the arms 12 of the gripping device 11 are then moved from the release configuration to the gripping configuration to mechanically constrain the group G of bag wrappers.
Advantageously, the grooves 14 of the carriage 13 are through, i.e. preferably allow the arms 12 of the gripping device 11 of the loading group 9 to pass through.
Preferably, the grooves 14 extend along the entire length of the carriage 13, parallel to the transverse direction Z.
With the gripping device 11 in the gripping configuration with the group G of bag wrappers mechanically constrained to the loading group 9, the carriage 13 of the lifting group 10 is moved from the second position to the first position at the lowest level, where it can receive a new group G of bag wrappers preferably from the transport group 16.
Advantageously, the loading group 9 comprises a second guide 24, preferably horizontal, extending along the transverse direction Z, which slideably supports the gripping device 11.
Preferably, the gripping device 11 is slideably and rotatably mounted on the second guide 24 of the loading group 9.
More in detail, the gripping device 11 can rotate around a rotation axis S orthogonal to the transverse direction Z, and in particular, it is preferably vertical.
Advantageously, the gripping device 11 can rotate around the rotation axis S between a first position and a second position, wherein the second position is rotated by approximately 180° with respect to the first position.
In this manner, the gripping device 11 is configured to rotate together with the group G of bag wrappers before releasing it inside the package C at the support group 6.
Preferably, the gripping device 11 is configured to rotate from the first to the second position following the movement of the arms 12 from the release configuration to the gripping configuration in an alternating manner.
In other words, the gripping device 11 is preferably configured to alternately release a group G of bar wrappers while remaining in the first position, and to release the next group G of bag wrappers in the second position, i.e., rotated 180° with respect to the previous group G, so as to stack the groups G inside the package C in an alternating manner.
Preferably, the actuator means 8 of the support group 6 comprise at least a first actuator 26 configured to move the first support base 7 from the second opening C2 towards the first opening C1 to begin loading the groups G of bag wrappers into the package.
The actuator means 8 also comprise at least a second actuator 27, configured to move the first support base 7 downwards and in steps, during the loading of the groups G of bag wrappers.
Preferably, the first actuator 26 of the actuator means 8 of the support group 6 is of the pneumatic type.
Preferably, the second actuator 27 of the actuator means 8 of the support group 6 is of the electric type and preferably comprises at least one servo motor or a stepper motor or the like.
In particular, the first actuator 26 and/or the second actuator 27 is configured to move the support base 7 up to a predetermined path end, which advantageously may substantially coincide with the first opening C1 of the package C.
In other words, the first actuator 26 or the second actuator 27 can alternatively move the first support base 7 up to the desired height, based on the dimensions of the package C.
Advantageously, if the height of the package C is greater than the maximum travel of the first actuator 26 and/or the second actuator 27, the first actuator 26 and the second actuator 27 themselves cooperate to transport the support base 7 up to the predetermined path end (i.e., corresponding to the first opening C1).
Preferably, the first support base 7 comprises a main body 28 and at least one secondary base 29 movable with respect to the main body 28.
More specifically, the secondary base 29 is movable transversely to the load direction X (as well as to the transverse direction Y) to define the aforementioned extended configuration and the retracted configuration.
According to the second embodiment of the present invention illustrated in the attached figures 9 - 16, the actuator means 8 comprise a single actuation member, configured to move the first support base 7 through the package C.
More in detail, the actuation member of the actuator means 8 is preferably configured to move the first support base 7 first in correspondence with the first opening C1 and then to move it downwards (in steps) from the first opening C1 towards the opening C2 during the filling of the package C.
More generally, the actuator means 8 are configured to move the first support base 7 from the raised position towards the lowered position defining the aforementioned plurality of intermediate positions, in which each intermediate position defines a difference in height with respect to the previous intermediate position substantially equal to the thickness of each group G of bag wrappers.
In this way, the support surface defined by each group G of bag wrappers remains at a substantially constant height (along the load direction X) during the filling of the package C.
The actuator means 8 comprise at least one column 112 extending mainly along the load direction X and having the first support base 7 mounted on top.
Preferably, the column 112 has an extension along the load direction X greater than or equal to the extension along the load direction X of the side wall L of the package C.
In this way, by moving the column 112 of the actuator means 8 along the load direction X, the machine 1 allows the first support base 7 to be easily moved between the first opening C1 and the second opening C2 of the package C.
The secondary base 29, in the retracted configuration, is advantageously housed underneath and/or inside the main body 28.
In other words, in the retracted configuration, the size of the first support base 7 is substantially equal to the size of the main body 28.
In the extended configuration, the size of the first support base 7 is substantially equal to the sum of the size of the main body 28 and the secondary base 29.
With particular reference to the attached figure 8, the first support base 7 comprises two secondary bases 29, in particular movable in opposite directions from/toward the main body 28.
In this way, in the extended configuration, the size of the first support base 7 is substantially equal to the sum of the size of the main body 28 and the two secondary bases 29.
Preferably, the passage 15 of the second opening C2 of the package C delimited by the at least one second flap A2 is greater or equal to the overall dimensions of the first support base 7 in the retracted configuration, i.e., preferably greater than or equal to the overall dimensions of the main body 28 of the first support base 7.
Preferably, the machine 1 comprises an opening station 30 for opening packages C.
Preferably, the opening station 30 is configured to handle closed packages C to open them and define the housing volume for the stack of groups G of bag wrappers.
More in detail, the opening station 30 comprises a manipulator 31, preferably equipped with pneumatic suction cups 32, which is mobile to mechanically constrain at least one closed package C and transport it towards an opening area, where the package C is opened to define the aforementioned housing volume for the bag wrappers.
Advantageously, the opening station 30 of the machine 1 comprises at least one stop element 33 configured to intercept the closed package C transported by the manipulator 31 and force the opening of the package C itself.
Preferably, according to the first embodiment, the machine 1 comprises a conveyor 34 configured to grip the open package C and transport it to the loading position, i.e., with the package C aligned with the loading direction X.
Preferably, according to the second embodiment, the manipulator is configured to transport the open package C to a loading area, i.e., preferably below the second support group 101.
In this way, following the opening of the package C, the first support base 7 is moved towards the raised position, passing through the package C itself.
In other words, in accordance with the second embodiment illustrated in the attached figures 9-16, the handling means 5 comprise at least one manipulator device 100, preferably a manipulator robot. Preferably, the manipulator device 100 of the handling means 5 comprises two or more articulated arms configured to be movable around multiple rotation axes, for example around at least six distinct rotation axes, or, alternatively, at least nine rotation axes.
Preferably, according to this different embodiment illustrated in the attached figures, the manipulator device 100 of the second embodiment replaces at least said loading group 9 of the handling means 5 of the first embodiment.
Preferably, the manipulator device 100 of the second embodiment also replaces the transport group 16 of the handling means 5 of the first embodiment.
Preferably, the manipulator device 100 also replaces the lifting group 10.
In this way, according to this second embodiment illustrated in the attached figures 9-16, the replacement of the transport group 16, the lifting group 10 and the loading group 9 with the manipulator device 100 allows the machine 1 to be made more compact and/or easier to manufacture.
Preferably, the manipulator device 100 extends between a fixed end 113, preferably mechanically constrained to the columnar structure 2' of the support frame 2, and a free end 114, opposite the fixed end 113.
Preferably, the manipulator device 100 comprises at least a first section 115 and at least a second section 116 rotatably constrained to the first section 115.
Advantageously, the manipulator device comprises a first joint 117 interposed between the first section 115 and the second section 116 and is configured to allow the rotation of the second section 116 with respect to the first section 115, preferably around at least three mutually orthogonal axes.
Preferably, the manipulator device 100 comprises at least one gripping element 118 mechanically constrained to the free end 114, in particular rotatably constrained to the free end 114.
Preferably, the gripping element 118 of the second embodiment substantially coincides with the gripping device 11 of the first embodiment.
For this purpose, the manipulator device 100 comprises at least one second joint 131 interposed between the second section 116 and the gripping element 118 and is configured to allow the gripping element 118 to rotate with respect to the second section 116, preferably around at least three mutually orthogonal axes.
Preferably, the gripping element 118 of the manipulator device 100 of the handling means 5 comprises a pair of jaws 119 that move toward and away from each other to define a corresponding gripping configuration and a release configuration.
Preferably, during the movement of the group G of bag wrappers from the inlet section 3 towards the second support base 102, the gripping element retains the group G while remaining in the gripping configuration.
The manipulator device 100 is configured to arrange the groups G of bag wrappers on the second support base 7 in alternating orientations.
In other words, the machine 1 according to the invention is configured to stack groups G of bag wrappers rotated in an alternate manner, so that the bottom of the bag wrappers of a first group G is positioned above the openings of the bag wrappers of a second group below and vice versa, thus obtaining a stack of groups of bag wrappers of substantially uniform height.
For this purpose, the manipulator device 100 positions (by moving the gripping element 118 from the gripping configuration to the releasing configuration) on the second support base 102 each group G rotated by 180° with respect to the previous (and subsequent) group G of bag wrappers.
Preferably, the gripping device 11 and/or the gripping element 118 is configured to position on the first support base 7 and/or on the second support base 102 each group G rotated by 180° with respect to the previous (and subsequent) group G of bag wrappers.
Advantageously, said first support base 7 comprises at least one main wall 105, which extends orthogonally with respect to said load direction X and is provided with at least one through slot 106.
Advantageously, said first support base 7 is movable downwards from said lowered position to a rest position, wherein said third support base 104 is configured to pass through said at least one through slot 105 of said first support base 7 and support said at least one group G of bag wrappers.
Preferably, the third support base 104 comprises two or more third elongated elements 120, which extend transversely to the load direction X and, preferably, parallel to the orthogonal direction K.
Preferably, the third support base 104 comprises a plurality of said third elongated elements 120, arranged parallel to each other.
Preferably, the third support base 104 comprises at least one transverse element 121 positioned to connect the third elongated elements 120. The transverse element 121 is preferably transverse with respect to the third elongated elements 120.
According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the transverse element 121 is positioned to mechanically connect the adjacent ends of the third elongated elements 120, preferably the ends of the third elongated elements 120 positioned distal with respect to the first support base 7.
In this way, the third elongated elements 120 comprise respective free ends 122 facing the first support base 7.
Preferably, the extension of the third elongated elements 120 of the third support base 104 is determined in such a way that the third elongated elements 120 themselves pass through the through slots 106 of the first support base 7, and preferably the transverse element 121 of the third support base 104 remains outside the footprint of the first support base 7.
For this purpose, the through slots 106 of the first support base 7 extend parallel to each other and to the third elongated elements 120 of the third support base 104.
Advantageously, the through slots 106 of the first support base 7 have a width (meant transversely to their prevalent extension) greater than or equal to the width of the third elongated elements 120 of the third support base 104, so as to allow the latter to pass through.
Advantageously, said third support base 104 is configured to replace said first support base 7 and support said at least one group G of bag wrappers.
More clearly, with the first support base 7 in the lowered position, wherein it supports the stack of groups of bag wrappers, to allow the closing of the second flaps A2 of the package C, the machine preferably provides for replacing the first support base 7 with the third support base 104.
In fact, the third support base 104 is preferably provided with a reduced thickness and is also movable along the orthogonal direction K, allowing its extraction from its loading position towards the distal position, even with two of the second flaps A2 closed.
For this purpose, the machine 1 comprises pressure means 130 arranged in proximity and/or at a lower level than the second opening C2 of the package C, and configured to be moved along a direction parallel to the orthogonal direction K of the third support base 104 and/or parallel to the transverse direction T of the second support base 102, to preferably intercept two opposing second flaps A2 and fold them to define a bottom wall of the package C.
In this way, preferably with the third support base 104 designed to support the stack of groups G of bag wrappers, the pressure means close two of the second flaps A2 of the package C, thus supporting the bag wrappers inside the package C.
Consequently, the machine 1 provides for the extraction of the third support base 104, moving the latter from its loading position to its distal position.
Machine 1 therefore provides for the activation of additional pressure means (not visible in the attached figures) to close the other two second flaps A2 of package C.
Preferably, the through slots 106 of the first support base 7 are designed in such a way as to allow the passage of the third elongated elements 120 of the third support base 104 and consequently allow the exchange between the first support base 7 and the third support base 104 in supporting the stack of groups G of bag wrappers.
Preferably, the third support group 103 comprises third actuator means 123 mechanically connected to the third support base 104 and configured to move the third support base 104 at least along the orthogonal direction K.
Preferably, the third actuator means 123 of the third support group 103 are also configured to move the third support base 104 parallel to the load direction X, to appropriately position the third support base 104 at the desired height, i.e. substantially in proximity to or in correspondence with the second opening C2 of the package C.
In order to allow the positioning of the third support base 104 in correspondence with the second opening C2 of the package C, the machine 1 comprises fourth actuator means 124 configured to raise at least one second flap A2 of the package C.
Preferably, the fourth actuator means are arranged in correspondence or in proximity of the third actuator means of the third support group 103, or, in general, are intended to be placed at a lower level than the second opening C2 of the package C.
More clearly, with the package C open (following the interception of the stop element 33), the fourth actuator means 124 are moved from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration, in which at least one head 125 extends to intercept the second flap A2 to be lifted.
In other words, the head 125 of the fourth actuator means 124 in the extended configuration is located at a level between the second opening C2 of the package C and the free edge of the flap A2 to be lifted.
Conveniently, the package C is moved parallel to the orthogonal direction K, starting from the opening station 30 until it reaches the loading direction X, where said head 125 of the actuator means 124 in the extended configuration intercepts the second flap A2 of the package C, lifting it at least partially.
Advantageously, the third actuator means 123 of the third support group 103 are moved upwards parallel to the loading direction X from a rest (lower) position until they intercept the second flap A2 of the package C, where the third support base 104 keeps the second flap A2 raised.
As anticipated above, advantageously, said first support base 7 is movable, between said raised position and said lowered position, in a plurality of intermediate positions.
Preferably, said first support base 7 is movable from said lowered position or from a lower intermediate position to said raised position or an upper intermediate position, to press said at least one group G of bag wrappers against said second base 102 of said second support group 101.
For the purposes of this description, the expressions "lower intermediate position" and "upper intermediate position" mean at least two distinct positions, interposed between the raised position and the lowered position at different heights.
In particular, the lower intermediate position has a lower height than the upper intermediate position, along the load direction X.
Advantageously, said second support group 101 comprises abutment means 107, aligned with said second support base 102, comprising at least one housing seat 108 configured to receive at least one free end of said second support base 102 in the extended configuration.
Advantageously, said abutment means 107 are configured to receive said second support base 102 in abutment, with said first support base 7 moved towards said raised position, to crush said at least one group G of bag wrappers against said second support base 102.
Preferably, in accordance with the embodiment illustrated in the attached figures, said second support base 102 comprises two or more second elongated elements 110, arranged parallel to each other along a transverse direction T with respect to said load direction X.
Preferably, said abutment means 107 comprise two or more housing seats 108 to house two or more corresponding free ends of said two or more second elongated elements 110 of said second support base 102.
Preferably, the second elongated elements 110 of the second support base 103 have a substantially cylindrical or, generally, tubular shape.
Differently, the second elongated elements 110 of the second support base 102 may have any shape suitable for supporting the group G of bag wrappers, such as, for example, a quadrangular cross-section, or a laminar shape, or otherwise.
Preferably, the second elongated elements 110 of the second support base 102 define a space between them, intended to be crossed by the gripping element 118 of the manipulator device 100.
More clearly, the movable jaws 119 of the gripping element 118 of the manipulator device 100 comprise teeth with a size smaller than or equal to the space defined between the elongated elements 110 of the second support base 102.
In this way, the movable jaws 119 of the gripping element 118 are movable with respect to the second support base 102 to rotate each group G of bag wrappers alternately by 180°, to allow each group G to be stacked rotated with respect to the previous and subsequent ones.
In this way, the machine 1 allows stacking groups G of bag wrappers rotated by 180° in an alternate manner, so that the bottom of the wrappers of a first group G is arranged above the openings of the bag wrappers of a second group G below and vice versa, thus obtaining a stack of groups of bag wrappers of substantially uniform height.
Advantageously, said second support group 101 comprises at least one shoulder 109, associated with said second support base 102 and configured to block the movement of said at least one group G of bag wrappers with said second support base 102 moved from the extended configuration to the retracted configuration.
More in detail, the second support assembly 101 comprises a containment structure 126 configured to contain the second support base 102 in the retracted configuration.
Preferably, the containment structure 126 has a substantially box-like shape and comprises at least one front wall 127 in which openings 128 are formed, configured to be passed through by the second support base 102 during its movement between the retracted and extended configurations.
Preferably, the front wall 127 faces the abutment means 107 and, preferably, defines the shoulder 109 for locking the assembly G of bag wrappers.
Advantageously, the shoulder 109 remains defined on the front wall 127 of the containment structure 126, between the openings 128.
According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the front wall 127 of the containment structure 126 of the second support group 101 is provided with a plurality of openings 128 positioned side by side, configured to be passed through by the corresponding plurality of second elongated elements 110.
Operationally, during the movement of the second support base 102 from the extended configuration to the retracted configuration, the group G of bag wrappers is transported by the second support base 102 towards the containment structure 126 and reaches the shoulder 109 defined on the front wall 127.
According to a further embodiment, the manipulator device 100 may be configured to cooperate with the containment structure 126 of the second support assembly 101 to rotate each assembly G of bag wrappers relative to the preceding assembly and/or the subsequent assembly.
More in detail, the jaws 119 of the manipulator device 100 are configured to place each group G of bag wrappers on an upper surface 126' (see Figure 10) of the containment structure 126.
Furthermore, preferably, the jaws 119 are configured, while maintaining the gripping configuration, to move each group G of bag wrappers parallel to the transverse direction T, from the upper surface 126' of the containment structure 126 towards the second support base 102, preferably in correspondence with the first opening C1 of the package C, in particular going beyond the shoulder 109.
Advantageously, the manipulator 100 can be configured to place each group G of bag wrappers on the upper surface 126' in an alternating manner with the bottoms facing the second support base 102 or with the openings facing the second base of support 102, so that each group G is stacked vertically inside the package C with the bottoms arranged above (and below) the openings of the adjacent group G.
Operationally, the manipulator device 100 will therefore be configured, alternatively, to drag or push each group G of bag wrappers onto the second support base 102.
Advantageously, the machine 1 according to the invention comprises holding means 111, movable between a holding position, in which said holding means 111 are arranged in proximity to said second support base 102 to hold said group G of bag wrappers on said second support base 102 in the extended configuration, and a rest position, wherein said holding means 111 are distal with respect to said second support base 102 to free said group G of bag wrappers.
Advantageously, the machine 1 comprises holding means 132, arranged around the loading direction X and configured to control the position of the first flaps A1 of the package C.
Preferably, the holding means 132 are configured to grip and hold in at least one desired position the first flaps A1 provided at the first opening C1 of the package C.
According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the holding means comprise at least one pneumatic suction cup 133 and, preferably, comprise at least one pneumatic suction cup 133 for each first flap A1 of the package C.
Suitably, the holding means 132 comprise at least one pneumatic circuit (not visible in the attached figures) in fluidic connection with the pneumatic suction cups 133 and configured to activate the pneumatic suction cups 133.
The pneumatic suction cups 133 can be activated to create a vacuum on the surface of the corresponding first flap A1 and thus limit its movement. Furthermore, the pneumatic suction cups 133 can move towards and away from the loading axis X, so as to control the opening and/or closing of the first flaps A1 with respect to the first opening C1 of the package C.
Preferably, during the filling of the package C with the groups of bag wrappers, the holding means 132 are configured to retain the first flaps A1 in an inclined position with respect to the side wall L of the package, so as to form a sort of invitation and/or funnel for the groups G of bag wrappers.
In this way, the holding means 132 ensure that the groups G are inserted into C without getting stuck on the first flaps A1 or falling out of the package C.
In other words, the holding means 132 allow the configuration of the first flap A1 to be modified to facilitate the entry of the groups G into the package C.
The present invention is feasible in other variations, all of which fall within the scope of the inventive features claimed and described; these technical features may be replaced by different technically equivalent elements and materials; the shapes and dimensions of the invention may be any, provided they are compatible with its use.
The numbers and reference signs included in the claims and description are intended solely for clarity and should not be considered as elements that limit the technical interpretation of the objects or processes identified by them.

Claims

Packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers, comprising:
- a support frame (2), defining an inlet section (3) for at least one group (G) of bag wrappers and an outlet section (4) for a package (C) containing a plurality of groups (G) of bag wrappers;
characterized in that it comprises:
- handling means (5) configured to move said at least one group (G) of bag wrappers from said inlet section (3);

- a support group (6) comprising at least a first support base (7) movable along a loading direction (X) intended to be placed across a package (C) between a first opening (C1) and a second opening (C2) opposite to said first opening (C1) and configured to receive said group (G) of bag wrappers from said handling means (5);

said support base of said support group (6) being movable along said loading direction (X) between a raised position, in which said first support base (7) is configured to be placed in proximity to said first opening (C1) of said package (C) and a lowered position, in which it is configured to be placed in proximity to said second opening (C2) of said package (C), to support a plurality of said groups (G) of bag wrappers stacked together inside said package (C) between said first opening (C1) and said second opening (C2) and thus produce said package of bag wrappers;

said machine (1) being configured to stack said groups (G) of bag wrappers rotated in an alternate manner, such that the bottom of the wrappers of a first group (G) is positioned above the openings of the bag wrappers of a second group (G) below and vice versa.
Packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers according to claim 1, characterized in that said support group (6) comprises actuator means (8) mechanically connected to said first support base (7) and configured to move said first base (7) between said raised position and said lowered position defining a plurality of intermediate positions, wherein the linear distance, parallel to said loading direction (X), between two intermediate positions is intended to be substantially greater than or equal to the thickness of each group (G) of bag wrappers.
Packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that said handling means (5) comprise at least one loading group (9) configured to move said group (G) of bag wrappers into a loading position aligned with said first support base (7) of said support group (6) along said loading direction (X).
Packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that said handling means (5) comprise at least one lifting group (10) configured to move said group (G) of bag wrappers along a lifting direction (Y) parallel to said loading direction (X) until reaching a height substantially equal to the height of said loading position of said loading group (9).
Packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that said loading group (9) is movable at least along a transverse direction (Z), orthogonal to said loading direction (X) and to said lifting direction (Y) and configured to move said group (G) of bag wrappers from said lifting group (10) to said loading position, aligned with said first support base (7) of said support base (6).
Packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that said loading group (9) comprises at least one gripping device (11) movable between a gripping configuration, in which it is configured to mechanically engage said group (G) of bag wrappers, and a releasing configuration, in which it is configured to release said group (G) of bag wrappers.
Packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that said gripping device (11) comprises at least two arms (12) movable towards and away from each other, parallel to said transverse direction (Z), to define said gripping configuration and said release configuration respectively.
Packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that said lifting group (10) comprises at least one carriage (13) extending along a plane transverse to said lifting direction (Y);
said carriage being provided with at least one groove (14) extending parallel to said transverse direction (Z) and configured to be passed through by said arms (12) of said gripping device (11) of said loading group (9).
Packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that said first support base (7) is movable between an extended configuration, wherein it extends parallel to said transverse direction (Z) to support said groups (G) of bag wrappers, and a retracted configuration, in which it defines a smaller footprint, parallel to said transverse direction (Z), than said extended configuration.
Packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises second actuator means, configured to move at least one flap (A2) of said package (C) to at least partially obstruct said second opening (C2) of said package (C) and at least partially define a bottom wall for said groups (G) of bag wrappers;
said at least one flap (A2) delimiting a passage (15) for said first support base (7) of said support group (6) in the retracted configuration.
Packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a second support group (101) positioned, along said loading direction (X), at a greater height than said first support group (6);
said second support group (101) comprising at least one second support base (102), movable between an extended configuration, in which it receives said group (G) of bag wrappers from said handling means (5), and a retracted configuration, wherein it releases said group (G) of bag wrappers onto said first support base (7) of said first support group (6).
Packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least a third support group (103), comprising at least a third support base (104) movable along a direction (K) orthogonal to said loading direction (X), between a distal position and a loading position, intercepting said loading direction (X) at said second opening (C2) of said package (C), to cooperate with said first support base (7) in a lowered position and to support said at least one group (G) of bag wrappers.
Packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that said third support base (104) is configured to replace said first support base (7) and support said at least one group (G) of bag wrappers.
Packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that said second support group (101) comprises abutment means (107), aligned with said second support base (102), comprising at least one housing seat (108) configured to receive at least one free end of said second support base (102) in the extended configuration.
Packaging machine for packaging bag wrappers according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that said second support base (102) comprises two or more second elongated elements (110), arranged parallel to each other along a transverse direction (T) with respect to said loading direction (X);
said abutment means (107) comprising two or more housing seats (108) to accommodate two or more corresponding free ends of said two or more second elongated elements (110) of said second support base (102).