GB835239A - Improvements relating to the mechanical handling of articles, such as packets of sugar and other substances - Google Patents

Abstract

835,239. Packaging machines. BRECKNELL, DOLMAN & ROGERS Ltd., and DOLMAN, H. J. March 22, 1957 [Dec. 22, 1955], No. 36770/55. Class 94(1). [Also in Group XXX] A machine for assembling articles in batches for parcelling, the batches comprising two or more rows, includes means for turning each article of one row through 90 degrees relative to the articles of the other row or rows. In one embodiment for turning the articles of an outer row to produce the assembly of Fig. 1, the articles such as packets of sugar 1 are fed to a conveyer 2 from a filling and closing machine to a dead plate adjacent pushers 5, 6. The packets operate a detector 4 to commence feed by the pushers on to a conveyer 7A passing through a dryer 7. In every five strokes of the pusher 5, the pusher 6 misses a stroke so delivering four packets only to the row it faces. When the packets leave the dryer, the two right hand rows as shown are carried by a conveyer 9 to a further dead plate adjacent a pusher 16. The left hand row is fed forward by belts 12, 13 having different speeds so that the packets on them are turned through 90 degrees before assembling with those of the other rows opposite the pusher 16. The completed batch operates detectors 15 which set the pusher in motion to deliver the batch to a parcelling machine 18 (not detailed). In the other embodiment, packets are delivered as before opposite pushers 51-53, the centre one 52 of which makes only four strokes to the five strokes of the others. Presser plates, Fig. 4 (not shown), engage the top of the packet 1d not being moved at each forward stroke and of the packet 1b during the idling of the centre pusher to prevent their frictional displacement by moving packets. After passage through the dryer 7, the articles are separated by fences the centre one of which has an obstruction 10a which turns the centre row of articles through 90 degrees. A belt 176 moves the adjacent outer row against the turned row and the batch assembles opposite a pusher 136. Detectors 103 set in motion grippers 121 which engage the articles adjacent the batch and move them backwards a short distance while the pusher feeds the batch to the parcelling machine W. Grippers engaging the packet tops, Figs. 7, 10 (not shown), may also be provided. Articles may be grouped in two or more courses arranged as described by collating articles at different levels simultaneously and depositing the articles of one level on those below, or by collating articles in groups in one plane and elevating one group on to another. Change in position of an article may be effected by turning it through 90 degrees and toppling it over sideways.