WO2018203208A1

WO2018203208A1 - A device for filling a container with respective products, preferably to be orientated

Info

Publication number: WO2018203208A1
Application number: PCT/IB2018/052977
Authority: WO
Inventors: Claudio Monti; Marco Verri
Original assignee: Progetto Alfa S.R.L.
Priority date: 2017-05-04
Filing date: 2018-04-30
Publication date: 2018-11-08
Also published as: IT201700047282U1

Abstract

A device for filling a container (11) with respective products (13), preferably to be orientated, wherein the respective the product (13) is in particular defined by corresponding containing capsules of a material, preferably an edible material, or a pharmaceutical material or a cosmetic material or another material, the material being preferably in powder form, and especially being a material to be infused or diffused in a respective liquid, especially water, the capsule, in particular, being in the form of a containing body (13') made of a rigid material, or substantially rigid, while the container (11) is provided for housing a plurality of products to be filled, it comprises introduction means (12) of the products into the container (11) and relative movement means (A) between the container and the introduction means so that the introduction means (12) of the products into the container are able to sequentially introduce the products (13) into the container (11).

Description

A DEVICE FOR FILLING A CONTAINER WITH RESPECTIVE PRODUCTS, PREFERABLY TO BE ORIENTATED

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a device for filling a container with respective products, preferably to be orientated.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART

The prior art includes apparatus for filling containers with relative products to be orientated, in which the product is in particular defined by corresponding capsules of food product to be infused in water and in which the capsule is in particular in the form of a containing body made of a rigid material, or substantially rigid, and preferably has an asymmetrical shape, or generally conical, the container being for housing a plurality of products to be filled and preferably being defined by a casing for enveloping the products, for example in the form of a box body, preferably made of cardboard.

The prior-art apparatus comprise introduction means of the products into the container, which are normally constituted by complex industrial robots that collect the products one by one and place them, appropriately orientated, internally of the respective container or housing casing in static conditions.

In this way, however, a filling apparatus is obtained that is excessively complex and which has excessively large dimensions, requiring the use of considerable spaces internally of the industrial work environments.

The sector is also aware of the need to have available a device operating in a particularly efficient way.

The sector is also aware of the need to have available a device operating in a particularly reliable way.

The sector is also aware of the need to have available a device having a particularly modest volume.

The sector is also aware of the need to have available a device that enables easy format change on the part of the personnel at work.

The sector is also aware of the need to have available a device that is easy to build or set up.

The sector is also aware of the need to have available a device having a relatively modest cost.

The sector is also aware of the need to have available a device utilising a minimal number of components.

The sector is also aware of the need to have available a device having a modest structural complexity.

The sector is also aware of the need to have available a device that is particularly simple and easy to predispose for the personnel.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a new and/or alternative solution with respect to the solutions at present known and in particular it obviates one or more of the drawbacks or problems referred-to in the foregoing, and/or satisfies one or more of the needs identified in the prior art, and in particular outlined in the foregoing.

A device is therefore provided for filling a container with respective products, preferably to be orientated; wherein the product is in particular defined by corresponding containing capsules of a material, preferably an edible material, or a pharmaceutical material or a cosmetic material or another material, the material preferably being in powder form or in pieces, and especially being a material to be infused or diffused in a respective liquid, especially water, for example, the material being defined by roasted and ground coffee or another infusion product; the capsule, in particular, being in the form of a containing body made of a rigid material, or substantially rigid, and preferably having an asymmetrical shape, or generally conical, or having a narrower end and an opposite wider end, possibly provided with a respective peripherally projecting lip; the container being provided for housing a plurality of products to be filled and preferably being defined by a wrapping casing of the products, for example in a form of a box body, preferably cardboard, and in an open condition at the moment of filling, or by a tub, or a hollow support, used for transfer of the products internally of a respective work apparatus or system; and is characterised in that movement means are included for relative movement between the container and the introduction means of the products into the container, the introduction means being able to sequentially introduce the products into the container.

In this way it is possible to have available a device that enables simply and easily carrying out the filling of a respective container.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

This and other novel aspects, or specific advantageous realisations, are described in the appended claims, the technical characteristics of which are described in the following detailed description, illustrating a preferred and advantageous embodiment which is however to be considered only as a non- limiting example of the invention; this description being made with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

- figure 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the device according to the present invention;

- figure 2 is a perspective view, taken from a different side to figure 1 , of the preferred embodiment of the device according to the present invention;

- figure 3 is a lateral elevation view of a preferred embodiment of the device according to the present invention;

- figure 4 is a lateral elevation view, taken from a different side to figure 3, of the preferred embodiment of the device according to the present invention;

- figure 5 is a front elevation view of a preferred embodiment of the device according to the present invention, in an assembled condition to the apparatus to which it is associated; - figure 6 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the device according to the present invention, in an assembled condition to the apparatus to which it is associated.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The accompanying figures illustrate a preferred embodiment 10 of a device for filling a container 11 with respective products 13, preferably to be orientated.

The product 13 is in particular defined by corresponding containing capsules of a material, preferably an edible material, or a pharmaceutical material or a cosmetic material or another material.

The material is preferably in powder form or in pieces, and is especially a material to be infused or diffused in a respective liquid, especially water, either hot or cold water.

For example, the material is defined by roasted and ground coffee in powder form or another infusion food product.

In turn, the capsule is preferably in the form of a containing body 13' made of a rigid material, or substantially rigid, and preferably having an asymmetrical shape, or generally conical, or having a narrower end and an opposite wider end, possibly provided with a respective peripherally projecting lip 13".

The container 11 is provided for housing a plurality of products to be filled and is preferably defined by a wrapping casing of the products, for example in a form of a box body, preferably cardboard, and in an open condition at the moment of filling, or by a small cup, or a hollow support, which is not illustrated in detail in the accompanying figures, which can be used to transfer the products internally of a respective work apparatus or system.

In particular, the device comprises introduction means 12 of the products into the container 11 and advantageously relative movement means A between the container and the introduction means 12 of the products in the container, the introduction means 12 being able to sequentially introduce the products 13 into the container 11. In this way it is possible to have available a device that enables simply and easily carrying out the filling of a respective container.

Advancement means of the container are preferably included, which are not illustrated in detail in the appended figures, and which in any case are symbolically denoted by arrow A which indicates the advancement direction thereof.

Thus the introduction means 12 of the products into the container are in particular advantageously able to sequentially introduce the products 13 into the container 11 while the container 11 is advancing.

In this way a device is made available which enables carrying out a filling of a respective container in a particularly simple and easy way.

As can be seen in the figures, the introduction means 12 of the products 13 into the container 11 are advantageously positioned above the container 11 , in particular just above the container 11 , or at a height level that is greater, or slightly greater, than a level of the edge 11" of the container defining the seating 11 ' thereof which is adapted to receive the products 13.

Reference numeral 111 in the figures denotes the closing cover of the container or casing 11 once filled with products.

The introduction means 12 of the products 13 into the container 11 are advantageously able to introduce one product at a time into the container 11 , i.e. one product after another.

The introduction means 12 of the products 13 into the container 11 advantageously drop, in particular drop directly, or preferably by force of gravity, the product 3 into the container 11.

The introduction means 12 of the products 13 into the container 11 advantageously have available products between an upstream end and a downstream end of the housing seating 11 ' of the products of the container 11. As can be seen in the figures, the introduction means of the products 13 into the container 11 are advantageously in a form of mobile means 12 for engaging and transferring the products 13 between a receiving zone, in particular higher, and a release zone of the products, in particular lower.

As can be observed in particular in figure 4, the introduction means 12 of the products 13 into the container 11 are advantageously in a form of rotating means in a rotation direction R' which coincides with the advancement direction of the container.

As can be seen in the figures, the introduction means of the products 13 into the container 11 , i.e. the mobile means for engaging and transferring the products 13, advantageously comprise a rotatable wheel, or star 12 having respective peripherally distributed seatings 121 each for housing a respective product 13, which seatings 121 are alternated with or delimited by corresponding radial protuberances 122 for engaging and retaining the respective product 13 in the respective seating 121.

As can be seen in the figures, the rotatable wheel, or star 12 for introducing the products 13 into the container 11 is advantageously extended in a perpendicular or vertical plane, i.e. is rotatable according to a respective transversal or horizontal axis.

The introduction means of the products 13 into the container 11 , i.e. the mobile means for engaging and transferring the products 13, advantageously comprise a single rotatable wheel, or star 12 which sequences a single row of products 13.

As can be seen in the figures, the introduction means of the products 13 into the container 11 advantageously comprise sliding and lateral guide means 125 of the products 13 in movement, in particular between the receiving zone, especially upper, and the release zone of the products, especially lower, of the mobile means or rotatable wheel (12) for engaging and transporting the products (13).

As can be seen in particular in figure 5, the sliding and guide means 125 of the movement of the products 13 advantageously comprise opposite first and second profiled slabs 125, 125 at sides of the mobile means or rotatable wheel 12 for engaging and transporting the products 13. In particular, the profiled slabs 125 extend with an arched progression, at the or laterally to the housing seatings 121 of the products 13 of the mobile means or the rotatable wheel 12.

As can be seen in the figures and in particular in figure 4, the sliding and guide means 125 of the movement of the products 13, in particular between the receiving zone, especially upper, and the release zone of the products, especially lower, of the mobile means or rotatable wheel 12 for engaging and transporting the products 13, advantageously extend with an arched progression, in particular such that the profiled slabs 125 extend at the or laterally to the housing seatings 121 of the products 13 of the mobile means or the rotatable wheel 12.

As can be seen in the figures, the advancing means A of the container advantageously advance the container longitudinally or linearly, in particular below the introduction means 12.

As can be seen in the figures, advancement means 14 of the products 13 advantageously towards the introduction means 12 are comprised.

As can be seen in the figures, the advancement means 14 of the products 13 to the introduction means 12 advantageously comprise arranging means 141 of the products in sequence, or aligned, among one another.

Internally of the advancement means 14 of the products 13 towards the introduction means 12, the products advantageously move preferably by force of gravity, and/or subject to one or more inertial pulses, in particular generated by corresponding air jets, in particular additionally to the action imparted to the products by the force of gravity.

As can be seen in the figures, the arranging means 141 of the products in sequence, or aligned, among one another are advantageously able to receive a first and a second row of products which are incorporated to define a single row.

The arranging means 141 of the products in sequence, or aligned, among one another are advantageously able to receive a first and a second row of products 131 , 131 which are incorporated to define a single row 130 of products.

The arranging means 141 of the products 13 in sequence, or aligned, among one another are advantageously able to receive a first and a second row 131 , 131 of products 13, which respective products are alternatively advanced to define a single row 130.

As can be seen in the figures, the advancement means 14 of the products 13 are advantageously positioned above the introduction means 12 of the products 13 into the container 11.

As can be seen in the figures, the arranging means 141 of the products in sequence, or aligned, advantageously comprise means 143, 143 which are able to pass on, in a forward direction, in sequence or alternatedly, the products 13 of a first and a second row 131 , 131 of products 13.

As can be seen in the figures, the means that are able to pass on in a forward direction, in sequence, or alternatedly, the products 13 of a first and a second row 131 , 131 of products 13, advantageously comprise respective mobile means (143, 143) for engaging and passing on the products 13 in a forward direction.

As can be seen in the figures, the means 143, 143, which are able to pass on in a forward direction, in sequence or alternatedly, the products 13 or respective mobile means for engaging and passing on the products 13, are advantageously in a form of wheeled rotating means, or a star means 143, 143.

In particular, the rotating means 143, 143 rotate according to the angular direction denoted by R" in the respective figure.

As can be seen especially in figure 3, the wheeled means, or star means, comprise, or are advantageously constituted by a first and a second wheel, or star, flanked to one another 143, 143, respectively having corresponding circumferentially distributed seats 1430 for housing a respective product, which are delimited by corresponding radial protuberances 1431 , in particular terminating in a cusp 1431 '. The cusps or ends 1431 ' of the radial protuberances 1431 of a wheel or star 143 are transversally positioned at the seat 1430 of the other wheel or star 143 so that each wheel, or star 143 engages and enables passage downstream of a respective product 13 alternatively or sequentially to the other wheel or star 143.

As can be seen in the figures, the cusps or ends 1431 ' of the radial protuberances 1431 of a wheel or star 143 for engaging and passing on the products 13, when the products 13 are frontally arranged, i.e. when they are in the position of engagement and passage downstream, or downwards, of a respective product 13, are advantageously perpendicularly or vertically aligned, or substantially aligned, to the inserting wheel 12 in particular to the rotation axis of the wheel 12.

As can be seen in the figures, the first and second wheel, or star 143, 143 of the means for passing the products 13 on in a forward direction, in sequence, or alternatedly, are advantageously supported by a single or common rotatable axis.

As can be seen in the figures, the first and second wheel, or star 143, 143 of the means for passing the products 13 on in a forward direction, in sequence, or alternatedly, advantageously extend in a perpendicular or vertical plane, or are rotatable according to a respective transversal or horizontal axis.

As can be seen in the figures, and in particular figure 4, the transversal or horizontal axis of the first and second wheel, or star 143, 143 of the means for passing on the products 13 in a forward direction, in sequence, or alternatedly, is advantageously perpendicularly, or vertically, offset with respect to the rotation axis of the inserting wheel (12), and/or is perpendicularly, or vertically, aligned or substantially aligned, to the outlet of the products by the inserting means or wheel (12) towards or into the container (11 ). As can be seen in the figures, the mobile means 143, 143 for engaging and passing on the products 13, or the first and second wheel, or star of the means for passing on the products 13 in a forward direction, in sequence, or alternatedly, are advantageously in the form of idle means or idle rollers 143, 143, which are mobile, in particular in rotation, by pulsing of the products 13 in advancement, in particular by pulsing of the products 13 falling from above, especially by pulsing of the products of the first and second row of products which especially alternatively engage and push the cusps, or ends 1431 ' of the transversally offset protuberances 1431 of the first and second wheel 143, 143 feeding the products forward in sequence, i.e. alternatedly.

As can be seen in the figures, the advancement means 14 of the products to the introduction means advantageously comprise corresponding channel means 144, in particular for the fall of the products 13 onto the arranging means 12 of the products, i.e. on a protuberance 122 defining a respective housing seating 121 of the product that is perpendicularly aligned to the channel means 144, the channel means preferably being in the form of a vertical channel.

As can be seen in the figures, the channel means 144 in particular for the fall of the products 13 onto the arranging means 12 of the products, advantageously have a respective inlet end, at the cusps or ends 1431 ' of the radial protuberances 1431 of a wheel or star 143 for engaging and passing on the products 13, when the products 13 are frontally arranged, i.e. when they are in the position of engagement and passage downstream, or downwards, of a respective product 13.

The advancement means 14 of the products 13 to the introduction means 12 advantageously comprise reciprocal transversal nearing means 145, 145 of the products 13, in particular of the products of the first or second row of products 131 , 131.

As can be seen in the figures, the advancement means 14 of the products 13 to the introduction means 12 advantageously comprise reciprocal transversal nearing means 145, 145 of the products 13, in particular of the products of the first or second row of products 131 , 131 , in an overturned position with respect to one another, in particular to define a single row 130 of products 13.

In particular, the means for reciprocally inserting among the products, in particular to define a single row 130 of products, are in a form of corresponding guide means 145, 145 for engaging and sliding of the products 13.

The reciprocal transversal nearing means 145, 145, or reciprocal inserting, among the products 13, 13, advantageously correspond to the channel means 144.

As can be seen in the figures, the reciprocal transversal nearing means, or reciprocal inserting means 145, 145, among the products 13, 13, in particular to define a single row 130 of products, are advantageously in a form of corresponding guide means 145, 145 for engaging and sliding of the products 13.

In particular, as can be seen in the figures, the guide means 145, 145 for engaging and sliding of the products 13 extend between an upstream end, or upper end, for receiving the products from the means 143, 143, which are able to pass on in a forward direction, in sequence or alternatedly, the products 13 or respective mobile means for engaging and passing on the products 13, and a downstream end, or lower, of release of the products to the introduction means 12.

As can be seen in the figures, the reciprocal transversal nearing means 145, 145, or reciprocal inserting means, among the products 13, 13, in particular to define a single row 130 of products, advantageously comprise opposing first and second guides, or slabs 145, 145, transversally distanced from one another to define the channel means 144 for passage of the products 13, and which define respective and opposite internal faces, or opposite face, 145', 145' for engagement and sliding of corresponding products 13, which faces 145', 145' for engagement and sliding of the product 13 of the opposite engaging slabs 145, 145 are converging, or reciprocally nearing, in the direction of the respective outlet of channel means 144.

As can be seen in the figures, the guide means, or the opposite slabs 145, 145 for reciprocal transversal nearing, or reciprocal inserting among the products 13, 13, or reciprocal inserting means, among the products 13, 13, in particular defining guide means for engaging and sliding of a single row 130 of products 13, advantageously extend perpendicularly or vertically.

In particular, as can be seen in the figures, the first and second guides, or slabs 145, 145 which define the guide means 145, 145 for reciprocal transversal nearing, or reciprocal inserting among the products 13, 13 are in a single body with the first and second profiled slabs 125, 125 at the sides of the mobile means or rotatable wheel 12 for engaging and transporting the products 13 and defining the sliding and guide means 125 of the movement of the products 13.

The means 143, 143 for passing on the products are advantageously able to insert, in alternated sequence, the products of one of the first and the second row 131 , 131 of products into the channel means 144.

As can be seen in the figures, means for positioning 16 the rows of products are advantageously included, i.e. of the first and second row 131 , 131 of products being supplied, in front of one another and orientated opposite one another, in particular arranging the respective narrower ends facing one another.

The means for oppositely positioning 16 the products of the rows of products 131 , 131 are advantageously able to angularly rotate the products, in particular with respect to a perpendicular or vertical direction, according to opposing angular directions, in particular by a respective angle that is or is substantially 90°.

In particular, as can be seen in the figures, the means for oppositely positioning 16 the products of the rows of products 131 , 131 are able to angularly rotate the products while the products advance or lower, in particular by effect of the force of gravity. As can be seen in the figures, the means 16 for oppositely positioning the products of the rows of products 131 , 131 are advantageously upstream and/or superiorly arranged to the advancement means of the products 142, in particular the means 143, 143 which are able to pass on in a forward direction, in sequence, or alternatedly, the products 13 of a first and a second row 131 , 131 of products 13.

As can be seen in the figures, the means 16 for oppositely positioning the products of the rows of products are advantageously defined by corresponding guide means 161 , 161 in which the products 13 slide according to an angular rotation, in particular so as to arrange the products in front of one another and orientated opposite one another, i.e. in particular arranging the respective narrower ends facing one another.

As can be seen in the figures, the means 16 for oppositely positioning the products of the rows of products are advantageously defined by corresponding guide means 161 , 161 in which the products slide, in particular by effect of the force of gravity.

The guide means 161 , 161 of the means for oppositely positioning 16 are advantageously able to engage the peripheral lip 13' of the respective product 13.

As can be seen in the figures, the guide means of the means for oppositely positioning 16 advantageously comprise corresponding first and second guide rails 161 , 161 which define respective and opposite engaging and sliding faces 162, 162 of the products 13, which engaging and sliding faces 162, 162 of the product 13 extend with a profile, preferably helical, which arranges the respective sliding face 162, 162, from an initial position, in which it is frontally, or transversally, positioned with respect to the longitudinal direction, in particular the advancement direction of the containers 11 , to a final position, in which it is laterally positioned or parallel to the longitudinal direction, in particular the advancement direction of the containers 11.

As can be seen in the figures, the first and second guide rails 161 , 161 advantageously have respective side panels 163, 163 which extend from the wall defining the respective face for engagement and sliding of the product 13 and which preferably have respective longitudinal slits, which are not illustrated in detail in the accompanying figures, for sliding insertion of the lateral portions of the projecting lips 13' of the capsules or products 13.

In particular, as can be seen in the figures, the guide means of the means for oppositely positioning 16, or the corresponding first and second guide rails 161 , 161 extend perpendicularly or vertically.

In particular, as can be seen in the figures, the inlet end and/or the outlet end of the guide means of the means for oppositely positioning 16 comprise corresponding first and second guide rails 161 , 161 , and perpendicularly, or vertically aligned, or substantially aligned, to the cusps or ends 1431' of the radial protuberances 1431 of a wheel or star 143 for engaging and passing on the products 13, when the products 13 are frontally arranged, i.e. when they are in the position of engagement and passage downstream, or downwards, of a respective product 13, and in particular at the inlet of the channel means 144.

As can be seen in the figures, means 18 for supplying the products 13 are advantageously included.

The means 18 for supplying the products are advantageously able to supply a row, in particular a first and a second row of products 13, preferably reciprocal parallel and extended and distanced transversally, and wherein in each row the respective products 13 are aligned to one another.

As can be seen in the figures, the supply means of the products comprise first and second means 181 , 181 which are advantageously able to supply a respective row of products.

The supply means 18 of the products 13 are advantageously able to supply the products by force of gravity.

The supply means 18 of the products 13 are advantageously able to tilt the products 13 from a horizontal position to a vertical position, or from a position in which the respective end, in particular the end having the peripheral lip, is facing upwards, to the position in which the end, in particular the end having the peripheral lip, is facing longitudinally forwards or frontally.

As can be seen in the figures, the respective supply means of the products 18, 181 , 181 advantageously comprise an end 181', in particular higher and/or longitudinally upstream, for inlet of the products, and an end 181", in particular lower and/or longitudinally downstream, of release of the products to the means 16 for oppositely positioning the products 13.

As can be seen in particular in figure 4, the respective supply means of the products 18, 181 , 181 are advantageously superiorly positioned with respect to the means 16 for oppositely positioning the products 13 and in particular have the respective end 181 " for release of the products that is perpendicularly or vertically aligned to the inlet of the means 16 for oppositely positioning the products 13.

In particular, as can be seen in the figures, the respective means 181 , 181 for supplying the products in inlet are defined by a respective peripheral containing and sliding tunnel of the products 13, in particular the tunnel 181 has an inlet portion 182, 182, preferably horizontal and longitudinal, and an outlet portion 183, 183, preferably perpendicular or vertical, the inlet portion and the outlet portion being connected to one another via a large curved connecting portion 184, 184.

As can be seen in the figures, the introduction means 12 advantageously comprise respective activating means, in particular in rotation, the activating means preferably being in a form of a corresponding electric motor 17, which activates the mobile introduction means 12, in particular via respective transmission means 171 , defined especially by corresponding enmeshing means.

As can be seen in the figures, support means 20 of the device are advantageously provided. As can be seen in the figures, the support means 20 of the device advantageously comprise a main support plate 200, in particular which extends longitudinally and which is preferably located on a flank, or laterally to the device 10, preferably on a flank which, in use, is facing towards the frame 19 of the apparatus in which the device 10 is inserted, as can be observed in particular figures 5 and 6.

As can be seen in the figures, the support means 20 of the device advantageously comprise a central support member 201 which extends longitudinally and perpendicularly or vertically and which is preferably positioned at the introduction means 12 of the advancement means of the products and the advancement means 14 of the productions or the lower part thereof, in particular at the arranging means 141 of the products in sequence, or aligned, among one another.

As can be seen in particular from figure 4, the central support member 201 advantageously has, preferably at the respective lower part, a forward or frontal longitudinal edge 202 which is arranged at the mobile introduction means 12 so as to define guide and containing means of the products 13 which are mobile in the introduction means.

As can be seen in particular from figure 4, the front edge 202 of the central support member 201 is advantageously preferably arched and extends between the inlet end of the products in the introduction means 12 of the products 13 and the outlet end from the introduction means 12 .

As can be seen in particular in the figures, the central support member 201 is advantageously supported by the lateral support plate 200, in particular via respective spacer means 203, in particular rod means, for fixing the central support member 201 to the main support plate 200.

As can be seen in the figures, the activating means, or motor 17 of the introduction means 12 are advantageously supported, or extend, on the side of the support plate 200 which is opposite the side for arranging the device 10, in particular with the respective transmission means 171 being on the opposite side to the extending side of the activating means, or motor 17, or on the same side of arrangement of the device 10 and preferably between the main support plate 200 and the central support member 201.

As can be seen in particular in figures 5 and 6, the support means 20 of the device are advantageously engageable and disengageable to and from the frame 19 of the apparatus in which it is inserted for an advantageous format change.

As can be seen in the figures, the main support plate 200 of the device is advantageously engageable and disengageable, preferably using block means 204, to and from the frame 19 of the apparatus.

As can be seen in the figures, the support means 20 of the device advantageously comprise a rear transversal plate 205 supported by the main lateral plate 200.

In particular, as can be observed in particular in figures 5 and 6, the rear transversal plate 205 is engageable and disengageable, preferably using the block means 206, with the frame 19 of the apparatus.

In practice, as is clear, the above-illustrated technical characteristics enable, singly or in respective combination, the present invention to attain one or more of the following advantageous outcomes:

- having available a device operating in a particularly efficient way;

- having available a device operating in a particularly reliable way;

- having available a device having a particularly modest volume;

- having available a device that enables easy format change on the part of the personnel at work;

- having available a device that is easy to build or set up;

- having available a device having a relatively modest cost;

- having available a device utilising a minimal number of components; - having available a device having a modest structural complexity;

- having available a device that is particularly simple and easy to predispose;

- possibly having available a device that enables simply and easily carrying out the filling of a respective container.

The invention as it is conceived is obviously susceptible to industrial application. The expert in the sector might also contemplate numerous variants and/or modifications to make to the invention illustrated in the specific preferred embodiment, while remaining within the scope of the inventive concept, as set down in detail. Further, other preferred embodiments of the invention might be contemplated which comprise one or more of the characteristics illustrated in the foregoing. Furthermore it is understood that all the details can be replaced by other technically equivalent elements.

Claims

1. A device for filling a container (11 ) with respective products (13), preferably to be orientated; wherein the product (13) is in particular defined by corresponding containing capsules of a material, preferably an edible material, or a pharmaceutical material or a cosmetic material or another material, the material preferably being in powder form or in pieces, and especially being a material to be infused or diffused in a respective liquid, especially water, for example, the material being defined by roasted and ground coffee or another infusion product; the capsule, in particular, being in the form of a containing body (13') made of a rigid material, or substantially rigid, and preferably having an asymmetrical shape, or generally conical, or having a narrower end and an opposite wider end, possibly provided with a respective peripherally projecting lip (13"); the container (11) being provided for housing a plurality of products to be filled and preferably being defined by a wrapping casing of the products, for example in a form of a box body, preferably cardboard, and in an open condition at the moment of filling, or by a tub, or a hollow support, used for transfer of the products internally of a respective work apparatus or system; the device comprises introduction means (12) of the products into the container (11); and is characterised in that movement means (A) are included for relative movement between the container and the introduction means (12) of the products into the container, said introduction means (12) being able to sequentially introduce the products (13) into the container (11 ).

2. The device of claim 1 , characterised in that the relative movement means (A) between the container and the introduction means (12) of the products into the container comprise advancing means (A) of the container; the introduction means (12) of the products into the container being able to sequentially introduce the products (13) into the container (11 ) while the container (11 ) is advancing.

3. The device of claim 2, characterised in that the introduction means (12) of the products (13) into the container (11 ) are in a form of rotating means in a rotation direction which coincides with the advancement direction of the container.

4. The device of any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the introduction means (12) of the products (13) into the container (11 ) are positioned above the container (11 ), in particular just above the container (11 ), i.e. at a height level that is greater, or slightly greater, than a level of the edge (11 ") of the container defining the seating (11 ') thereof which is adapted to receive the products (13).

5. The device of any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the introduction means (12) of the products (13) into the container (11 ) being able to introduce one product at a time into the container (11 ), i.e. one product after another.

6. The device of any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the introduction means (12) of the products (13) into the container (11 ) drop, in particular drop directly, or preferably by force of gravity, the product (13) into the container (11 ).

7. The device of any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the introduction means (12) of the products (13) into the container (11 ) have available products between an upstream end and a downstream end of the housing seating (11') of the products of the container (11).

8. The device of any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the introduction means of the products (13) into the container (11 ) are in a form of mobile means (12) for engaging and transferring the products (13) between a receiving zone, in particular higher, and a release zone of the products, in particular lower.

9. The device of any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the introduction means of the products (13) into the container (11 ), i.e. the mobile means for engaging and transferring the products (13), comprise a rotatable wheel, or star (12) having respective peripherally distributed seatings (121 ) each for housing a respective product (13), which seatings are alternated with or delimited by corresponding radial protuberances (122) for engaging and retaining the respective product (13) in the respective seating (121 ).

10. The device of any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the introduction means of the products (13) into the container (11), i.e. the mobile means for engaging and transferring the products (13), comprise a single rotatable wheel, or star (12) which sequences a single row of products (13).

11. The device of any one of the preceding claims 9 and 10, characterised in that the rotatable wheel, or star (12) for introducing the products (13) into the container (11 ) is extended in a perpendicular or vertical plane, i.e. is rotatable according to a respective transversal or horizontal axis.

12. The device of any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the introduction means of the products (13) into the container (11 ) comprise sliding and lateral guide means (125) of the products (13) in movement, in particular between the receiving zone, especially upper, and the release zone of the products, especially lower, of the mobile means or rotatable wheel (12) for engaging an transporting the products (13).

13. The device of claim 12, characterised in that the sliding and guide means (125) of the movement of the products (13) comprise opposite first and second profiled slabs (125, 125) at sides of the mobile means or rotatable wheel (12) for engaging and transporting the products (13).

14. The device of any one of the preceding claims 12 and 13, characterised in that the sliding and guide means (125) of the movement of the products (13), in particular between the receiving zone, in particular upper, and the release zone of the products, in particular lower, of the mobile means or rotatable wheel (12) for engaging and transporting the products (13), extend with an arched progression, in particular such that the profiled slabs (125) extend at the or laterally to the housing seatings (121 ) of the products (13) of the mobile means or the rotatable wheel (12).

15. The device of any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the advancing means (A) of the container advance the container longitudinally or linearly, in particular below the introduction means (12).

16. The device of any one of the preceding claims, or of the pre- characterising part of claim 1 , characterised in that advancement means (14) of the products (13) towards the introduction means (12) are comprised.

17. The device of claim 16, characterised in that, internally of the advancement means (14) of the products (13) towards the introduction means (12), the products move preferably by force of gravity, and/or subject to one or more inertial pulses, in particular generated by corresponding air jets, in particular additionally to the action imparted to the products by the force of gravity.

18. The device of any one of the preceding claims 16 and 17, characterised in that the advancement means (14) of the products (13) are positioned above the introduction means (12) of the products (13) into the container (11 ).

19. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 16 to 18, characterised in that the advancement means (14) of the products (13) to the introduction means (12) comprise arranging means (141 ) of the products in sequence, or aligned, among one another.

20. The device of claim 19, characterised in that the arranging means (141 ) of the products in sequence, or aligned, among one another are able to receive a first and a second row of products (131 , 131 ) which are incorporated to define a single row (130).

21. The device of any one of the preceding claims 19 and 20, characterised in that the arranging means (141 ) of the products in sequence, or aligned, among one another are able to receive a first and a second row (131 , 131 ) of products (13), in which are alternatively advanced to define a single row (130).

22. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 19 to 21 , characterised in that the arranging means (141 ) of the products in sequence, or aligned, comprise means (143, 143) which are able to pass on, in a forward direction, in sequence or alternatedly, the products (13) of a first and a second row (131 , 131 ) of products (13).

23. The device of claim 22, characterised in that the means that are able to pass on in a forward direction, in sequence, or alternated, the products (13) of a first and a second row (131 , 131 ) of products (13) comprise respective mobile means (143, 143) for engaging and passing on the products (13).

24. The device of claim 23, characterised in that the mobile means (143, 143), which are able to pass on in a forward direction, in sequence or alternatedly, the products (13) or respective mobile means for engaging and passing on the products (13), are in a form of wheeled rotating means, or a star means (143, 143).

25. The device of claim 24, characterised in that the wheeled means, or star means, comprise, or are constituted by, a first and a second wheel, or star, flanked to one another (143, 143), respectively having corresponding circumferentially distributed seats (1430) for housing a respective product, which are delimited by corresponding radial protuberances (1431), in particular terminating in a cusp (1431 '), the cusps or ends (1431') of the radial protuberances (1431 ) of a wheel or star (143) being transversally positioned at the seat (1430) of the other wheel or star (143) so that each wheel, or star (143) engages and enables passage downstream of a respective product (13) alternatively or sequentially to the other wheel or star (143).

26. The device of any one of the preceding claims 24 and 25, characterised in that the cusps or ends (1431 ') of the radial protuberances (1431 ) of a wheel or star (143) for engaging and passing on the products (13), when the products (13) are frontally arranged, i.e. when they are in the position of engagement and passage downstream, or downwards, of a respective products (13), are perpendicularly or vertically aligned, or substantially aligned, to the inserting wheel (12) in particular to the rotation axis of the wheel (12).

27. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 24 to 26, characterised in that the first and second wheel, or star (143, 143) of the means for passing the products (13) on in a forward direction, in sequence, or alternatedly, are supported by a single or common rotatable axis.

28. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 24 to 27, characterised in that the first and second wheel, or star (143, 143) of the means for passing the products (13) on in a forward direction, in sequence, or alternatedly, extend in a perpendicular or vertical plane, or are rotatable according to a respective transversal or horizontal axis..

29. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 24 to 28, characterised in that the transversal or horizontal axis of the first and second wheel, or star (143, 143) of the means for passing the products (13) on in a forward direction, in sequence, or alternatedly, is perpendicularly, or vertically, offset with respect to the rotation axis of the inserting wheel (12), and/or is perpendicularly, or vertically, aligned or substantially aligned, to the outlet of the products by the inserting means or wheel (12) towards or into the container (11 ).

30. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 22 to 29, characterised in that the mobile means (143, 143) for engaging and passing on the products (13), or the first and second wheel, or star of the means for passing the products (13) on in a forward direction, in sequence, or alternatedly, are in the form of idle means or idle rollers (143, 143), which are mobile, in particular in rotation, by pulsing of the products (13) in advancement, in particular by pulsing of the products (13) falling from above, especially by pulsing of the products of the first and second row of products which especially alternatively engage and push the cusps, or ends (1431') of the transversally offset protuberances (1431 ) of the first and second wheel (143, 143) feeding the products forward in sequence, i.e. alternatedly.

31. The device of any one of the preceding claims, or of the pre- characterising part of claim 1 , characterised in that the advancement means of the products to the introduction means comprise corresponding channel means (144), in particular for the fall of the products (13) onto the arranging means (12) of the products, i.e. on a defining protuberance (122) of a respective housing seating (121) of the product that is perpendicularly aligned to the channel means (144), the channel means preferably being in the form of a vertical channel.

32. The device of claim 31 , characterised in that the channel means (144) in particular for the fall of the products (13) onto the arranging means (12) of the products, have a respective inlet end, at the cusps or ends (1431 ') of the radial protuberances (1431 ) of a wheel or star (143) for engaging and passing on the products (13), when the products (13) are frontally arranged, i.e. when they are in the position of engagement and passage downstream, or downwards, of a respective product (13).

33. The device of any one of the preceding claims, or of the pre- characterising part of claim 1 , characterised in that the introduction means

(12) comprise reciprocal transversal nearing means (145, 145) of the products

(13) , in particular of the products of the first or second row of products (131 , 131 ).

34. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 16 to 33, characterised in that the advancement means (14) of the products (13) to the introduction means (12) comprise reciprocal inserting means (145, 145) of the products (13), in particular of the products of the first or second row of products (131 , 131), in an overturned position with respect to one another, in particular to define a single row (130) of products (13).

35. The device of any one of the preceding claims 33 and 34, characterised in that the reciprocal transversal nearing means (145, 145), or reciprocal inserting, among the products (13, 13) correspond to the channel means (144).

36. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 33 to 35, characterised in that the reciprocal transversal nearing means (145, 145), or reciprocal inserting, among the products (13, 13), in particular to define a single row (130) of products, are in a form of corresponding guide means (145, 145) for engaging and sliding of the products (13).

37. The device of claim 36, characterised in that the guide means (145, 145) for engaging and sliding of the products (13) extend between an upstream end, or upper end, for receiving the products from the means (143, 143) which are able to pass on in a forward direction, in sequence or alternatedly, the products (13) or respective mobile means for engaging and passing on the products (13), and a downstream end, or lower, of release of the products to the introduction means (12).

38. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 33 to 37, characterised in that the reciprocal transversal nearing means (145, 145), or reciprocal inserting, among the products (13, 13), in particular to define a single row (130) of products, comprise first and second guides, or slabs (145, 145) transversally distanced from one another to define the channel means (144) for passage of the products (13) and which define respective and opposite, or facing, internal faces (145', 145') for engagement and sliding of corresponding products (13), which faces (145', 145') for engagement and sliding of the product (13) of the opposite engaging slabs (145, 145) are converging, or reciprocally nearing, in the direction of the respective outlet of channel means (144).

39. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 33 to 38, characterised in that the guide means, or the opposite slabs (145, 145) for reciprocal transversal nearing, or reciprocal inserting among the products (13, 13), in particular to define a single row (130) for engaging and sliding of the products, extend perpendicularly or vertically.

40. The device of any one of the preceding claims 38 and 39, characterised in that the first and second guides, or slabs (145, 145) which define the guide means (145, 145) for reciprocal transversal nearing, or reciprocal inserting among the products (13, 13) are in a single body with the first and second profiled slabs (125, 125) at the sides of the mobile means or rotatable wheel (12) for engaging and transporting the products (13) and defining the sliding and guide means (125) of the movement of the products (13).

41. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 22 to 40, characterised in that the means (143, 143) for passing on the products are able to insert, in alternated sequence, the products of one of the first and the second row (131 , 131 ) of products into the channel means (144).

42. The device of any one of the preceding claims, or of the pre- characterising part of claim 1 , characterised in that means for positioning (16) the rows of products are included, i.e. of the first and second row (131 , 131 ) of products being supplied, in front of one another and orientated opposite one another, in particular arranging the respective narrower ends facing one another.

43. The device of claim 42, characterised in that the means for oppositely positioning (16) the products of the rows of products (131 , 131 ) are able to angularly rotate the products, in particular with respect to a perpendicular or vertical direction, according to opposing angular directions, in particular by a respective angle that is or is substantially 90°.

44. The device of any one of the preceding claims 42 and 43, characterised in that the means for oppositely positioning (16) the products of the rows of products (131 , 131 ) are able to angularly rotate the products, while the products advance or lower, in particular by effect of the force of gravity .

45. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 42 to 44, characterised in that the means (16) for oppositely positioning the products of the rows of products (131 , 131 ) are upstream and/or superiorly arranged to the advancement means of the products (142), in particular the means (143, 143) which are able to pass on in a forward direction, in sequence, or alternatedly, the products (13) of a first and a second row (131 , 131 ) of products (13).

46. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 42 to 45, characterised in that the means for oppositely positioning (16) of the products of the rows of products are defined by corresponding guide means (161 , 161 ) in which the products (13) slide according to an angular rotation, in particular so as to arrange the products in front of one another and orientated opposite one another, i.e. in particular arranging the respective narrower ends facing one another.

47. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 42 to 46, characterised in that the means for oppositely positioning (16) of the products of the rows of products are defined by corresponding guide means (161 , 161 ) in which the products slide, in particular by effect of the force of gravity.

48. The device of claim 47, characterised in that the guide means (161 , 161 ) of the means for oppositely positioning (16) are able to engage the peripheral lip (13') of the respective product (13).

49. The device of any one of the preceding claims 47 and 48, characterised in that the guide means of the means for oppositely positioning (16) comprise corresponding first and second guide rails (161 , 161) which define respective and opposite engaging and sliding faces (162, 162) of the products (13), which engaging and sliding faces (162, 162) of the product (13) extend with a profile, preferably helical, which arranges the respective sliding face (162, 162) from an initial position, in which it is frontally, or transversally, positioned with respect to the longitudinal direction, in particular the advancement direction of the containers (11 ), to a final position, in which it is laterally positioned or parallel to the longitudinal direction, in particular the advancement direction of the containers (11 ).

50. The device of claim 49, characterised in that the first and second guide rails (161 , 161 ) have respective side panels (163, 163) which extend from the wall defining the respective face for engagement and sliding of the product (13) and which preferably have respective longitudinal slits for sliding insertion of the lateral portions of the projecting lips (13') of the capsules or products (13).

51. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 42 to 50, characterised in that the guide means of the means for oppositely positioning (16), or the corresponding first and second guide rails (161 , 161 ) extend perpendicularly or vertically.

52. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 42 to 51 , characterised in that the inlet end and/or the outlet end of the guide means of the means for oppositely positioning (16) comprise corresponding first and second guide rails (161 , 161 ), and perpendicularly, or vertically aligned, or substantially aligned, to the cusps or ends (1431 ') of the radial protuberances (1431 ) of a wheel or star (143) for engaging and passing on the products (13), when the products (13) are frontally arranged, i.e. when they are in the position of engagement and passage downstream, or downwards, of a respective product (13), and in particular at the inlet of the channel means (144).

53. The device of any one of the preceding claims, or of the pre- characterising part of claim 1 , characterised in that means (18) for supplying the products (13) are included.

54. The device of claim 53, characterised in that the means (18) for supplying the products are able to supply a row, in particular a first and a second row of products (13), preferably reciprocal parallel and extended and distanced transversally, and wherein in each row the respective products (13) are aligned to one another.

55. The device of any one of the preceding claims 53 and 54, characterised in that the supply means of the products comprise first and second means 181 , 181 which are advantageously able to supply a respective row of products.

56. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 53 to 55, characterised in that the supply means (18) of the products (13) are able to supply the products by force of gravity.

57. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 53 to 56, characterised in that the supply means (18) of the products (13) are able to tilt the products (13) from a horizontal position to a vertical position, or from a position in which the respective end, in particular the end having the peripheral lip, is facing upwards, to the position in which the end, in particular the end having the peripheral lip, is facing longitudinally forwards or frontally .

58. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 53 to 57, characterised in that the respective supply means of the products (18, 181 , 181) comprise ah end (181 '), in particular higher and/or longitudinally upstream, for inlet of the products, and an end (181"), in particular lower and/or longitudinally downstream, of release of the products to the means 16 for oppositely positioning the products (13).

59. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 53 to 58, characterised in that the respective supply means of the products (18, 181 , 181 ) are superiorly positioned with respect to the means (16) for oppositely positioning the products (13) and in particular have the respective end (181") for release of the products that is perpendicularly or vertically aligned to the inlet of the means (16) for oppositely positioning the products (13).

60. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 53 to 59, characterised in that the respective means (181 , 181 ) for supplying the products in inlet are defined by a respective peripheral containing and sliding tunnel of the products (13), in particular the tunnel (181 ) has an inlet portion (182, 182), preferably horizontal and longitudinal, and an outlet portion (183, 183), preferably perpendicular or vertical, the inlet portion and the outlet portion being connected to one another via a large curved connecting portion (184, 184).

61. The device of any one of the preceding claims, or of the pre- characterising part of claim 1 , characterised in that the introduction means (12) comprise respective activating means, in particular in rotation, the activating means preferably being in a form of a corresponding electric motor (17), which activates the mobile introduction means (12), in particular via respective transmission means (171 ), defined especially by corresponding enmeshing means.

62. The device of any one of the preceding claims, or of the pre- characterising part of claim 1 , characterised in that support means (20) are provided for the device.

63. The device of claim 62, characterised in that the support means (20) of the device comprise a main support plate (200), in particular which extends longitudinally and which is preferably located on a flank, or laterally to the device (10), preferably on a flank which, in use, is facing towards the frame (19) of the apparatus in which the device (10) is inserted.

64. The device of any one of the preceding claims 62 and 63, characterised in that the support means (20) of the device comprise a central support member (201 ) which extends longitudinally and perpendicularly or vertically and which is preferably positioned at the introduction means (12) of the advancement means of the products and the advancement means (14) of the productions or the lower part thereof, in particular at the arranging means (141 ) of the products in sequence, or aligned, among one another.

65. The device of claim 64, characterised in that the central support member (201 ) has, preferably at the respective lower part, a forward or frontal longitudinal edge (202) which is arranged at the mobile introduction means (12) so as to define guide and containing means of the products (13) which are mobile in the introduction means.

66. The device of claim 65, characterised in that the front edge (202) of the central support member (201 ) is preferably arched and extends between the inlet end of the products in the introduction means (12) of the products (13) and the outlet end from the introduction means (12) .

67. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 64 to 66, characterised in that the central support member (201 ) is supported by the lateral support plate (200), in particular via respective spacer means (203), in particular rod means, for fixing the central support member (201) to the main support plate (200).

68. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 63 to 67, characterised in that the activating means, or motor (17) of the introduction means (12) are supported, or extend, on the side of the support plate (200) which is opposite the side on which the device (10) is arranged, in particular with the respective transmission means (171 ) being on the opposite side to the extending side of the activating means, or motor (17), or on the same side on which the device (10) is arranged and preferably between the main support plate (200) and the central support member (201 ).

69. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 62 to 68, characterised in that the support means (20) of the device are engageable and disengageable to and from the frame (19) of the apparatus in which the frame (19) is inserted.

70. The device of claim 69, characterised in that the main support plate (200) of the device is engageable and disengageable, preferably due to the block means (204), with the frame (19) of the apparatus.

71. The device of any one of the preceding claims from 62 to 70, characterised in that the rear transversal plate (205) is engageable and disengageable, preferably due to the block means (206), with the frame (19) of the apparatus.

72. A device characterised in that it is as described in any one of the corresponding preceding claims and/or according to what is described in the description and, in particular, illustrated with reference to the figures of the accompanying figures.