WO2023002396A1

WO2023002396A1 - An apparatus for adapting boxes to contents, a packaging system and method

Info

Publication number: WO2023002396A1
Application number: PCT/IB2022/056687
Authority: WO
Inventors: Lorenzo PONTI
Original assignee: C.M.C. S.P.A.
Priority date: 2021-07-22
Filing date: 2022-07-20
Publication date: 2023-01-26
Also published as: IT202100019493A1

Abstract

An apparatus (1) for adapting boxes (S) to the contents (C) accommodated therein, comprising four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11d), each comprising a scoring tool (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d), four cutting implements (27a, 27b, 27c, 27d) for cutting the box (S), actuator means (111, 112) configured to move at least two of the four scoring tools (11a, 11b, 11c, 11d). Each scoring tool (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) comprises a first part (13a, 13b, 13c, 13d) which extends in a first direction (A) and a second part (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d) which extends in a perpendicular second direction (B), so as to impress two adjacent flanks of the box (S). The four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11d) are angular, vertically movable and horizontally movable in order to adapt to the base of the box (S), from a first position with the scoring tools (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) superposed on one another to a second position in which they are moved away from one another.

Description

AN APPARATUS FOR ADAPTING BOXES TO CONTENTS, A PACKAGING SYSTEM AND METHOD

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the technical sector concerning packaging, in particular boxing, and more in detail the devices for adapting boxes having a base shaped as an equiangular quadrilateral to the contents housed therein. The invention relates to an apparatus for adapting boxes, in particular the height thereof, to the contents housed therein and to a system and a method for packaging, in which the apparatus finds particular, but not exclusive, application.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART

As is known, one of the most common approaches for forming boxes includes the use of boxes to be formed that often comprise score lines, cuts and joins; these semi-finished pieces facilitate storage and packaging. In the present text “scoring” is taken to mean any impression carried out to facilitate folding. These are therefore folded boxes which can have one or both bases to be closed with flaps that extend on the flanks. Sometimes the boxes to be formed are indicated as preglued die-cut blanks, i.e. they are blanks in which at least two edges are joined to one another, usually by means of glue. Usually, though not necessarily, these are boxes to be formed, for example American boxes to be formed, produced in cardboard, for example recycled cardboard. Typically a box comprises flanks and bases between the flanks formed by flaps which start above and below from at least a flank, usually from each of the flanks.

The score lines of the boxes to be formed determine the final dimensions of the box, and they correspond with the dimensions of the contents only in rare cases. This drawback is not effectively obviated by the use of boxes to be formed with a plurality of score lines, alike to what is suggested in FR 2612885 A1 for a die-cut blank. In fact, a box of this type can be adapted only by discrete steps, equal to the distance between a score line and the next, and the presence of many score lines weakens the flanks and/or the flaps.

The presence of empty space in the box, i.e. the difference between the volume of the box and that of the contents, has negative effects in the successive steps of use. In particular, the contents of the box have free spaces that enable movement thereof and the box occupies a greater volume than is necessary.

The solutions of the prior art obviate these effects by inserting filler material into the boxes and/or by reducing the height of the boxes on the basis of the contents thereof. In contrast to the first action, the second has beneficial impacts on the volumetric weight or taxable weight of dispatches, enabling a maximisation of the boxes transported given a same load volume.

Document US 3015197 A describes a first example of a scoring and cutting station of a box for adapting the box to the contents thereof. Other examples are described in US 3953956 A and in EP 3717361 A1. In the case of boxes of different sizes, i.e. with a different plan or different width or different length, the cited examples adapt with difficulty or require the intervention of an operator who acts on the scoring head.

GB 2546240 A illustrates a box-forming machine which comprises a pair of opposite stores.

The solutions proposed in EP 2858909 A1 and in WO 2016151310 A1 enable working on sizes having different plans or impressions but include the repetition of the same operation by an articulated arm on each of the corners of a box and/or the repetition of the scoring on a plurality of successive stations. A sequence of operations increases work-times and the presence of several stations increases the system and management complications.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A first aim of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for adapting a box to the contents thereof which obviates one or more of the drawbacks in the prior art and which is easily adjustable, not only with respect to the height, but also with respect to the width and/or to the length of the box.

A second aim is to provide an apparatus which enables carrying out contemporaneously, or substantially contemporaneously, the operations necessary on all the corners of a box, preferably with an apparatus that is relatively simple and economical in the light of the performances obtained with it. A further object of the present invention is to provide a packaging system which processes boxes to be formed that are different to one another, i.e. with a different plan or impression of the box, ensuring adaptation of the box on the basis of the contents thereof. A still further object of the present invention is to provide a packaging method which guarantees adaptation and closure of the box on the basis of the contents thereof in processing a plurality of boxes to be formed that are different to one another, i.e. with a different plan or impression of the box.

These and other aims, which will be obvious to the expert in the sector from a reading of the following text, are attained by means of an apparatus for adapting boxes having an equiangular quadrilateral base to contents accommodated therein according to claim 1 , of a packaging system according to claim 11 or a packaging method according to claim 12.

In accordance with the teachings of the present document, the apparatus comprises a frame, four scoring implements, four cutting implements for cutting the box, actuator means and a control unit which controls at least the actuator means.

Each of the four scoring implements comprises a scoring tool and an opposite side to the scoring tool, which cooperate to impress a box. The four scoring implements are arranged so as to be at a respective corner of the box and are vertically movable with respect to the frame, so as to be positioned on the basis of the contents accommodated in the box.

The actuator means are configured to move at least two of the four scoring implements. The four cutting implements are vertically movable with respect to the frame together with the four scoring implements and are configured to vertically cut the box between two adjacent flanks.

Each scoring tool comprises a first part which extends in a first direction and a second part which extends in a second direction, perpendicular to the first direction, so as to impress two adjacent flanks of the box. The control unit is configured to arrange the four scoring implements on the basis of at least one dimension of the base of the box.

At least a portion of the first part of a first scoring tool is advantageously locatable above the first part of a second scoring tool, or vice versa. At least a portion of the first part of a third scoring tool is locatable above the first part of a fourth scoring tool, or vice versa.

The actuator means move at least two of the four scoring implements in the first direction from a position in which the first parts of the first scoring tool and of the third scoring tool are above or below the respective first part of the second scoring tool or of the fourth scoring tool to a position in which the first scoring tool is distanced from the second scoring tool and the third scoring tool is distanced from the fourth scoring tool in the first direction.

In accordance with the teachings of the present document, the packaging system comprises a forming station of the boxes to be formed, a loading station of the boxes, an apparatus for adapting boxes to the contents housed therein and a closing station of the boxes.

In accordance with the teachings of the present document, the method comprises steps of collecting a box to be formed, forming a box, inserting one or more products, impressing the box on the basis of the height extension of the one or more products, closing the box and sealing it. During the step of sealing it is advantageous to take account of the box collected and the height of the impression or scoring.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Specific embodiments of the invention will be described in the following part of the present description, according to what is set down in the claims and with the aid of the accompanying sheets of drawings, in which:

- figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a packaging system according to the invention from a first side;

- figure 2 shows a perspective view of figure 1 from the opposite side; - figure 3 shows a perspective view of a figure 1 from above; - figure 4 is a perspective view from above of a detail of the system of figure 1 ;

- each of figures from 5 to 7 is a perspective lateral view of a respective detail of the system of figure 1 , at different instants;

- figure 8 is a perspective lateral view from above of a detail of the system of figure 1 which illustrates an embodiment of an apparatus for adapting boxes to the contents housed therein in an operative step;

- each of figures from 9 to 11 is a perspective lateral view of operating steps following the step of figure 8;

- figures from 12 to 16 show perspective lateral views examples of details which illustrate an operating sequence;

- figure 17 and figure 18 are perspective views of details of a further embodiment of an apparatus for adapting boxes to the contents housed therein which, with respect to figure 8, comprises a feeler gauge;

- each of figures from 19 to 23 is a perspective lateral view of a detail of a part of the apparatus of figure 8;

- figure 24 is a perspective lateral view of a detail of the system of figure 1 ;

- figure 25 illustrates a partial section of two scoring tools which face on the same side;

- figures 26 and figure 27 are views from above and from below of an embodiment of a scoring tool;

- figure 28 and figure 29 are perspective lateral views of the apparatus of figure 17.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

With reference to the appended sheets of drawings, reference numeral 1 denotes an apparatus for adapting boxes (S) having an equiangular quadrilateral base to contents (C) accommodated therein.

An embodiment of the apparatus (1) comprises a frame (10), four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d), four cutting implements (27a, 27b, 27c, 27d) for cutting the box (S), actuator means (111, 112) configured to move at least two of the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) and a control unit (8) which controls at least the actuator means (111, 112).

Each of the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) comprises a scoring tool (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) and an opposite side (25a, 25b, 25c, 25d) to the scoring tool

(12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) which cooperate to impress a box (S).

The four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) are arranged so as to be at a respective corner of the box (S), i.e. they are arranged so as to be at the corners of an equiangular quadrilateral, and are vertically movable with respect to the frame (10), so as to be positioned on the basis of the contents accommodated in the box (S).

The four cutting implements (27a, 27b, 27c, 27d) are vertically movable with respect to the frame (10) together with the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) and are configured to vertically cut the box (S) between two adjacent flanks.

Each scoring tool (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) comprises a first part (13a, 13b, 13c, 13d) which extends in a first direction (A) and a second part (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d) which extends in a second direction (B), perpendicular to the first direction (A), so as to impress two adjacent flanks of the box (S). The control unit (8) is configured to arrange the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) on the basis of at least one dimension of the base of the box (S), i.e. the width or length of the base or impression of the box (S).

At least a portion of the first part (13a) of a first scoring tool (12a) is advantageously locatable above the first part (13b) of a second scoring tool (12b), or vice versa, and at least a portion of the first part (13c) of a third scoring tool (12c) is locatable above the first part (13d) of a fourth scoring tool (12d), or vice versa.

The actuator means (111, 112) move at least two of the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) in the first direction (A) from a position in which the first parts (13a, 13c) of the first scoring tool (12a) and of the third scoring tool (12c) are above or below the respective first part (13b, 13d) of the second scoring tool (12b) or of the fourth scoring tool (12d) to a position in which the first scoring tool (12a) is distanced from the second scoring tool (12b) and the third scoring tool (12c) is distanced from the fourth scoring tool (12d) in the first direction (A).

For example, figure 19 illustrates first scoring tools (12a, 12b) one above another while figure 21 shows the first scoring tools (12a, 12b) distanced.

The vertical mobility of the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) can be observed, for example, by comparing figures 9 and 10: the lowering of the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) enables carrying out the score lines (S1) in a closer position to the base of the box (S) with respect to the existing score lines (SO) so as to fold the flaps in proximity of the contents (C) housed. As can be observed from a comparison between the example solution of figure 9 and the one of figure 11, the apparatus (1) of the invention works on sizes that are extremely different to one another, thus facilitating the selection of the boxes (S) to be formed on the basis of the products (P) that are to be contained. Several advantages ensue, for example in terms of less consumption of material, better protection of the products (P) and a higher ratio between mass and volume of the closed boxes (S). The apparatus (1) provides these advantages by working on sizes that are particularly different to one another, without or with minimum impacts on the times and management of the working processes and without requiring more successive stations.

The illustrating figures from 8 to 11 show the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) which operate simultaneously in a single station or apparatus (1) for adapting the boxes (S) to the contents (C) accommodated therein.

In the distanced position the scoring tools (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) do not impress the whole length of the flank of the box (S), differently to the common practice, according to which each scoring tool impresses the whole length of a single flank. It has been observed that the presence of two score lines (S1), each at a respective angle of the flank, guarantees the folding of the flap, as it is not necessarily to impress the central part of the flank. Notwithstanding this, the scoring tools (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) must extend parallel to the flank for a sufficient portion for guaranteeing the folding. Owing to the reciprocal position of the scoring tools (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) located on the same flank, it is possible to guarantee an extension of the score lines sufficient to fold the largest sizes and, at the same time, to process the smallest box sizes (S).

A portion of a scoring tool (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) can be placed above another if it is at a different height with respect to the frame (10) or if it is inclined with respect to the other; usually the first option is preferred for the reasons that follow.

The scoring tools (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) are usually arranged horizontally, i.e. are configured and arranged to impress score lines (S1) that are horizontal or substantially horizontal. Commonly each score line (SO, S1) is maintained at the same distance from the base. Score lines (SO, S1) that are inclined, or a plurality of lines that are parallel and not coinciding, on the same flank can weaken the box (S) or make the box more difficult to close.

Usually a scoring tool (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) of a scoring implement (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) comprises a scoring blade, corresponding to the part configured to impress, and often a bevel, ora bevelling or tapering towards the scoring blade. The four cutting implements (27a, 27b, 27c, 27d) are preferably arranged externally with respect to the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d); in this way it is also possible to move these closer to one another or it is possible to insert other elements, for example a feeler gauge.

The actuator means (111, 112) are preferably configured to move at least three of the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) and the control unit (8) is configured to arrange the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) on the basis of the two dimensions of the base of the box (S). Further, the actuator means (111, 112) move at least two of the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) in the second direction (B) from a position in which the second parts (16a, 16b) of the first scoring tool (12a) and of the second scoring tool (12b) are above or below the respective second part (16c, 16d) of the third scoring tool (12c) or of the fourth scoring tool (12d) to a position in which the first scoring tool (12a) is distanced from the third scoring tool (12c) and the second scoring tool (12b) is distanced from the fourth scoring tool (12d) in the second direction (B). It is therefore possible to adapt the apparatus (1) also in a second direction (B).

Each of the first parts (13a, 13b, 13c, 13d) preferably comprises a first bevel (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d) and the first bevels (15a, 15d) of the first parts (13a, 13d) which are located above the other first parts (13b, 13c) face upwards while the first bevels of the other first parts (13b, 13c) face downwards.

While there are various shapes of bevel, scoring tools (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) made and arranged in this way allow the respective score lines (S1) to be neared to one another, more preferably to make them superposable, or substantially so, in the case of a bevel edge chisel.

Usually the first part (13a, 13b, 13c, 13d) and the second part (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d) of each of the scoring tools (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) lie on a same plane, i.e. they do not form a step; they are commonly obtained starting from a single slab, for example made of metal and appropriately machined.

More preferably, for each scoring tool (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d), the first part (13a, 13b, 13c, 13d) is in a single piece with the second part (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d) and the second part (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d) comprises a second bevel (18a, 18b, 18c, 18d) arranged on the same side as the first bevel (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d). Each scoring tool (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) has the first bevel (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d) and the second bevel (18a, 18b, 18c, 18d) turned in an opposite direction with respect to the scoring tool (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) between which it is interposed.

In this way the management and maintenance of the apparatus (1) is facilitated, as well as avoiding misalignments between the score lines (S1) of adjacent flanks. It follows that the vertical arrangement of each of the scoring tools (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) with respect to the frame (10) must take account of both the scoring tools (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) between which it is interposed, so as to prevent interferences. In the presence or not of the bevel it is preferable for the first parts (13a, 13b, 13c, 13d), superposable with one another, to both comprise a respective first scoring blade (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d) which is arranged on or near to the flank facing towards the other first part (13a, 13b, 13c, 13d).

In this way first scoring blades (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d) are obtained which operate on the same flank of the box (S) and which are adjacent to the same plane, usually horizontal. The near-concidence obtained due to the first bevels (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d), possibly to the second bevels (18a, 18b, 18c, 18d) and/or the first scoring blades (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d) as described above guarantees a precise folding both in the large and the small sizes and prevents local weakening in the small box sizes (S). What is described in the foregoing for the first parts (13a, 13b, 13c, 13d) of the scoring tools (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) is applicable for the second parts (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d). In greater detail, the second parts (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d) preferably comprise second bevels (18a, 18b, 18c, 18d) and/or second scoring blades (17a, 17b, 17c, 17d) configured and arranged as described in the foregoing. In the embodiment of figure 11 the first direction (A) corresponds to the transversal direction (T) of a packaging system (100) while the second direction corresponds to the longitudinal direction (L) of the packaging system (100). Though this characteristic is not strictly necessary, it responds to the common fact that the boxes (S) formed are arranged with the flanks following the longitudinal direction (L) and the transversal direction (T) of the packaging system (100).

Numerous modalities of reciprocal movement of the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) are possible. In a first modality each of the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) is autonomously movable. In a preferred modality two scoring tools (11a, 11b) are movable with respect to one another in the first direction (A) and the pair formed between them is movable with respect to the pair formed by the other two scoring tools (11c, 11 d) in the second direction (B), so as to simplify the mechanisms necessary for the movement.

The apparatus (1) preferably comprises a sizing head (101) which is vertically movable with respect to the frame (10) and which supports the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) so that they perform the same vertical displacements, as can be seen in figure 8. More preferably, the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) are connected to one another in pairs so as to perform the same displacements in the first direction (A).

In a preferred embodiment the first scoring implements (11a) are connected to the third scoring implements (11c) and the second scoring implements (11b) are connected to the fourth scoring implements (11 d) so as to share the displacements according to the first direction (A). The connection can be achieved using a linear connection guide (109). For example, figure 10 illustrates two linear connection guides (109) which are arranged according to the second direction (B) and which comprise respective rails and slides. The third scoring implements (11c) and the fourth scoring implements (11 d) are borne by a respective slide while the rails are respectively solidly constrained to the first scoring implements (11a) and to the second scoring implements (11b). The reciprocal movement of the second scoring implements, by means of a transversal actuator (112) which acts on an Archimedes screw with a leftwards or rightwards threading connected to the slides of a transversal linear guide (107), determines an equal displacement in the first direction (A) of the third scoring implements (11c) and of the fourth scoring implements (11 d).

The same figure also illustrates a longitudinal linear guide (108) associated to an Archimedes screw and to a longitudinal actuator (111) which moves the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) in pairs away from or towards one another. In the case shown by way of example in the figure, only the pair formed by the third scoring implements (11c) and by the fourth scoring implements (11 d) is moved in the longitudinal direction (L) by the Archimedes screw. Also, figure 10 illustrates a vertical actuator (110) which, via a vertical linear guide (106) solidly constrained to the sizing head (101), moves the sizing head (101) with respect to the frame (10). In the comparison between figures 10 and 11, the sizing head (101) is shown respectively in a lowered position and a raised position in the vertical direction (Z).

Owing to the sizing head (101) the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) are moved vertically together, thus simplifying the management of the movement thereof. Owing to the connections between the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) the active elements are limited in the movement thereof and the control of the apparatus (1) is simplified.

The height of the contents (C) housed by the box (S), so as to define the vertical displacement of the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d), can be established in various ways or various combinations of ways.

The control unit (8) is preferably configured to interrupt the vertical movement downwards when at least a scoring tool (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) contacts the contents (C). More preferably the scoring tool comprises a contact part (121, 122) which is conformed to abut the contents (C).

The force of the vertical actuator (110) is usually controlled, for example by means of a current control, to establish the contact between at least a scoring tool (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) and the contents (C) of the box (S).

In a different modality, which as described above can be integrated or not with the use of the scoring tools (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) as abutments, the apparatus 1 comprises at least a feeler gauge, such as for example a feeler plate (7), which is vertically movable with the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) and blocks the vertical displacement thereof when it reaches contact with one or more products. Considering the mobility of the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) in order to adapt to the plan of the box (S), the at least a feeler gauge is configured so as not to interfere with the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) when they are in the position of smallest box (S) size i.e. of minimum extension in the first direction (A) and, possibly, in the second direction (B). This is evident from a comparison between figures 29 and 28, which illustrate an embodiment of the apparatus (1) complete with feeler plate (7).

It is also possible to include a predetermined disposition of the different products (P) in the box (S), which can be memorised by the control unit (8), so as to define the maximum height.

Also, the feeler gauge can be replaced by contactless devices, for example optical or ultrasound readers. Again by way of example, a laser bar can be included at the inlet of the apparatus (1) and/or photocells borne by the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d). Further, the operators might be provided with devices of contact or contactless type to determine the position of the highest product or products (P) in the box (S).

Possibly the delineated solutions, or others of known type, can be actuated before the apparatus (1), for example the packaging system (100) can comprise a feeler gauge, or a laser bar, arranged before the apparatus (1) and which communicates with the control unit (8).

As mentioned above, it is preferable for the scoring tools (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) to impress score lines (S1) that are horizontal or substantially horizontal; it is therefore preferable for the trajectory of the movement thereof towards the corners of the box (S) to lie on a horizontal plane.

Each of the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) preferably comprises a linear guide (19a, 19b, 19c, 19d) comprising a slide (21a, 21b, 21c, 21 d) and a rail (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) which is arranged in a respective oblique direction (Oad, Obc) which lies in a substantially horizontal or horizontal plane and is oblique to both the first direction (A) and the second direction (B). Further, each of the scoring tools (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) is solidly constrained to a respective slide (21a, 21b, 21c, 21d).

A like configuration is represented in figures 14 and 15. Usually the oblique directions (Oad, Obc) are arranged on the bisector of the angle between the first direction (A) and the second direction (B), i.e. at TT/4 from both.

The slide (21a, 21b, 21c, 21 d) thus guarantees a horizontal translation towards the corners of the box (S) of the scoring tools (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d).

More preferably the apparatus (1) comprises a shim (30) which is interposed between a slide (21a, 21b, 21c, 21 d) and the respective scoring tool (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) so that the scoring tool (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) is located lower with respect to those between which it is interposed. With this practical solution the interchangeability of the various elements apparatus (1) is improved, i.e. the scoring tools (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) can be identical to one another.

Each of the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) is preferably associated to a sizing head (101) from which some columns descend which bear them. More preferably, each of the slides (21a, 21b, 21c, 21 d) is borne by a first column (102a, 102b, 102c, 102d) which extends vertically and other columns bear the opposite sides (25a, 25b, 25c, 25d). For example figures 20 and 21 illustrate second columns (103a, 103b, 103c, 103d), third columns (104a, 104b, 104c, 104d) and fourth columns (105a, 105b, 105c, 105d). Together the columns enable the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) to lower towards the base of the box (S). The four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) comprise movement means (22a, 22b, 22c, 22d) of the slide (21a, 21b, 21c, 21d). More preferably the movement means (22a, 22b, 22c, 22d) comprise a pneumatic piston (23a, 23b, 23c, 23d), or powered by other sources, and transmission elements (24a, 24b, 24c, 24d) configured to transform the movement of the rod of the pneumatic piston (23a, 23b, 23c, 23d) into alternating motion of the slide (21a, 21b, 21c, 21 d) in a horizontal direction.

As clearly visible in the accompanying figures, the opposite sides (25a, 25b, 25c, 25d), having to cooperate with the scoring tools (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) to impress two adjacent flanks of the box (S), in turn comprise, preferably, though not necessarily, a part which extends in the first direction (A) and a part which extends in the second direction (B). These parts too can be separate or in a single piece. The opposite sides (25a, 25b, 25c, 25d) comprise opposing scoring surfaces (26a, 26b, 26c, 26d) which contact the flanks of the box (S) on the opposite side with respect to the scoring tools (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d).

Usually the scoring tools (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) have a recess or a removal of material at the corner between the first part (13a, 13b, 13c, 13d) and the second part (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d), useful for allowing full operativity of the cutting implements (27a, 27b, 27c, 27d). The four cutting implements (27a, 27b, 27c, 27d) are preferably borne by the scoring tools (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) or in any case by the sizing head (101), so as to exploit the vertical displacement thereof. Each cutting implement (27a, 27b, 27c, 27d) is preferably associated to a scoring implement (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) so as to cut the corner between two flanks of the box (S). Each cutting implement (27a, 27b, 27c, 27d) preferably comprises a cutter and an alternating motion device (29a, 29b, 29c, 29d) which is configured to move the cutter while the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) are moved vertically downwards. The alternating or vibrating motion is appreciable in the comparison between figure 12 and figure 13 and facilitates the processing of the material of the box (S).

Each cutting implement (27a, 27b, 27c, 27d) is more preferably movable with respect to an external rail (28a, 28b, 28c, 28d) which is solidly constrained to a respective opposite side (25a, 25b, 25c, 25d) and which is arranged in an oblique direction to the first direction (A) and to the second direction (B), generally at TT/4 from both. It is specified that the external rail (28a, 28b, 28c, 28d) is defined as such because it is in an external position with respect to the respective rail (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d). The mobility of the cutting implements (27a, 27b, 27c, 27d) prevents interferences between the elements of the apparatus (1).

More preferably, the external rail (28a, 28b, 28c, 28d) is solidly constrained to an arm, visible for example in figure 8, fixed to the opposite side (25a, 25b, 25c, 25d).

As can be seen, for example, in figure 21, each of the opposite sides (25a, 25b, 25c, 25d) preferably comprises a hole, an opening or a passage of the relative cutting implement (27a, 27b, 27c, 27d); more preferably, in the retracted position determined by the alternating motion device (29a, 29b, 29c, 29d) the cutter of the cutting implement (27a, 27b, 27c, 27d) extends internally of the hole.

Some boxes of the accompanying figures are shown with both the score lines (SO, S1), existing or not, even before the score lines (S1) are effectively impressed by the apparatus (1), in order to clarify the comparison between the hypothetical contents (C) and the effective contents of the boxes (S), as well as the advantages that the apparatus (1) enables carrying out.

Figures from 8 to 11 illustrated, by way of example: - the arrival of a first size of box (S) at the apparatus (1) via transporter means which comprise, in the illustrated case, a conveyor belt;

- the vertical lowering of the sizing head (101) with the cutting of the corners between the plane passing through the existing score lines (SO) and the score lines (S1) and the following activation of the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d);

- the arrival of a second size of box (S) at the apparatus (1) and the adjustment of the position of the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) and, consequently, of the cutting implements (27a, 27b, 27c, 27d), to the plan of the box (S). Figures from 12 to 16 illustrate, in greater detail, the functioning of the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) and the cutting implements (27a, 27b, 27c, 27d); the opposite sides (25a, 25b, 25c, 25d) are not illustrated and the box (S) is left transparent for greater clarity, i.e. to allow viewing the contents (C) thereof. While the scoring tools (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) descend to move towards the contents (C), the cutting implements (27a, 27b, 27c, 27d) cut the corners of the box (S) substantially to where the score lines (S1) will be made. In the passage between figure 14 and figure 15 the cutters of the cutting implements (27a, 27b, 27c, 27d) can be observed which retract as well as the scoring tools (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) which impress on the box (S). Before the following upwards vertical movement the scoring tools (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) retreat on the respective rails (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) and the cutting implements (27a, 27b, 27c, 27d) also retreat on the respective external rails (28a, 28b, 28c, 28d).

Figures 13 and 14 illustrate how the recess realised at the angle of the scoring tools (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) also prevents contact with the cutting implements (27a, 27b, 27c, 27d).

Figure 25 enables an understanding of how the bevels (18b, 18d) facing onto the opposite sides and/or the second scoring blades (17b, 17d) at the flank of the scoring tool (12b, 12d) facing towards the other scoring tool (12d, 12b) ensure a minimum distance between the positions of the score lines (S1) impressed by the second parts (16b, 16d) of the scoring tools (12b, 12d).

The actuators used in the apparatus (110, 111, 112) are typically, though not necessarily, of an electrical or pneumatic type, for example they can comprise servomotors, as illustrated in figures 11 and 23.

The apparatus (1) has advantageous, though not exclusive, application in a packaging system (100) of products (P).

An embodiment of a packaging system (100) of products (P) according to the invention comprises a forming station (3) of the boxes (S), a loading station (4) of the boxes (S), an apparatus for adapting boxes (S) to the contents (C) accommodated and a closing station (5) of the boxes (S). The forming station (3) of the boxes (S) comprises two or more stores (31a, 31b, 31c, 31 d), each for containing boxes (S) to be formed having predetermined and different dimensions between one store (31a, 31b, 31c, 31 d) and the other. In particular the boxes (S) to be formed differ from one another by the impression of the box (S), for example for the first dimension and/or for the second dimension, and, possibly, the height of the box (S). Obviously the forming station might comprise further stores for containing boxes (S) to be formed of the same predetermined dimensions as another store (31a, 31b, 31c, 31 d), for example purposed as a reserve.

The apparatus (1) is preferably of the type described and exemplified in the present text. The control unit (8) is advantageously configured to arrange the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) on the basis of the store (31a, 31b, 31c, 31 d) from which the box (S) to be formed has been collected, so as to adapt them to the impression of the box (S) or, in general, to the horizontal extension thereof.

The control unit (8) of the apparatus (1) can or may not be shared with the packaging system (100) and, in both cases, can or may not comprise an electronic control unit and/or a programmable logic control and/or a management software, according to modalities known to the expert in the field.

The forming station (3) preferably comprises an anthropomorphic robot (32), lower folding means (33) of the boxes (S) to be formed and lower sealing means (34) of the boxes (S) to be formed. More preferably the robot (32) is provided with a pickup head with suction cups, for example under depression, which picks up the boxes (S) to be formed, unfolding or opening them and then nears them to the lower folding means (33). The lower folding means, in the embodiment of figure 1, are of a known type and comprise two hinged rods which move towards one another to fold the lower flaps of the boxes (S) to be formed which are subsequently fastened, for example using adhesive tape, after the box (S) under formation has been collected from vertical belts (94). The lower folding means (33) and the lower sealing means (34) comprise movable parts for operating on box sizes that are different to one another; for example the vertical belts (94) are movable with respect to one another according to the transversal direction (T). The loading station (4) of the boxes (S) can require the intervention of operators, as in the case shown by way of example in figures from 1 to 4, or can be of an automatic type according to techniques of known type. The prior art includes numerous variants of closing stations (5) and it preferably comprises a folding station, or sub-station, (50) and a sealing station, or sub station (500). The folding station (50) can comprise fixed flap-folders (51) and movable flap-folders (52) which cooperate to fold the upper part of the flanks of the boxes (S). The sealing station (500) applies a seal (92) to the boxes (S) so as to prevent the involuntary opening of the flaps; for example it can apply adhesive means, such as for example a tape or glues, or hooking means, such as for example metal hooks. The sealing station (500) also comprises an applicator (53), of adhesive tape in the example of figures 7 and 24, and of the guides (54) with respect to which the applicator (53) is movable. Applicators (53) are known that are vertically and/or horizontally movable to adapt to the sizes of the boxes (S). In particular the guides (54), represented for example in figure 24, are arranged in a transversal direction (T) and the applicator (53) is thus movable in this direction, due to appropriate movement means controlled, for example, by the control unit (8). The movement means can comprise linear actuators, such as for example an

Archimedes screw or a cylinder, preferably of a pneumatic type.

The packaging system (100) typically further comprises a labelling station (6) of the boxes which comprises a labeller (61), also movable at least vertically to adapt to the various sizes of the boxes (S). The boxes (S) can be placed internally of the operating area of the apparatus (1) manually but, commonly, the boxes are moved by transporter means, the activation of which is usually controlled by the control unit (8). The packaging system (100) or the apparatus (1) can also comprise rollers (92), horizontal belts (93) and/or vertical belts (94) for transporting the boxes (S). Figures from 1 to 3 illustrate some views and enable appreciation of the various steps of packaging described in the foregoing.

The invention also relates to a method for packaging products (P). An embodiment of the method comprises steps of: providing an apparatus (1) for adapting the boxes (S) to the contents (C) accommodated therein according to the present description; providing two or more stores (31a, 31b, 31c, 31 d), each for containing boxes (S) to be formed; providing at least a first and a second box (S) to be formed having different bases, impressions or plans, having different dimensions from one another; arranging the at least a first and a second box (S) to be formed in the stores (31a, 31b, 31c, 31 d), memorising the arrangement; collecting a box (S) to be formed from a store (31a, 31b, 31c, 31 d); forming a box (S) from the box (S) to be formed, collected in such a way as to be open in an upwards direction; inserting one or more products (P) into the formed box (S); - impressing the box (S) which contains one or more products (P) so as to realise score lines (S1) at a height of the box (S) determined on the basis of a height extension of the one or more products (P) inside the box (S), in other words at the distance between the base of the box (S) and the most distant point of the products (P); - closing the box (S) by folding the flaps along the score lines (S1); sealing the box (S) closed with a seal (S2);

In the step of sealing the box (S) closed, the position of the seal (S2) is advantageously determined on the basis of the store (31a, 31b, 31c, 31 d) from which the box (S) to be formed has been collected and from the height at which the score lines (S1) have been made, so that the seal (S2) secures the end of the flap folded above the other flaps during the step of closing the box (S).

To avoid other processing operations downstream it is preferable that in the step of impressing the box (S) the score lines (S1) are made at a distance, from the upper end of the flap, lower than the distance from the flank of the flap to the opposite flank. In other words, in order to be folded without passing beyond the other flank or without having to be cut or without having to be folded, the flap must be shorter than the dimension of the base of the box (S) perpendicular to the folding axis of the flap.

In accordance with the teachings of the invention given here, the seal (S2) is applied on both the basis of the plan extension of the box (S) and on the basis of the height at which the score lines (S1) have been impressed. In other words, with scorelines (S1) that are lower with respect to the existing score lines (SO) or with respect to the standard position, account is taken of the greater closeness of the upper flap to the opposite flank. This is to avoid leaving the end of the flap free above the other flaps: a free end can enter into contact with other boxes (S) or other elements and can cause the jamming of the box (S), or damage or the undesired opening thereof.

The method is actuated by using the apparatus (1) described in the present text, i.e. a step of providing an apparatus (1) according to the invention, with the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) operating in the step of impressing the box (S). The control unit (8) of the apparatus (1) will thus be configured to carry out the method.

More preferably the method is actuated by using the packaging system (100) described in the present text, i.e. the initial step includes supplying a packaging system (100) according to the invention which comprises two or two or more stores (31a, 31b, 31c, 31 d), each for containing boxes (S) to be formed.

The specifications and the embodiments illustrated in the foregoing are therefore transposable in the method and vice versa. For example, the method preferably comprises the step of labelling the sealed box (S).

It is understood that the above has been described by way of non-limiting example and that any constructional variants are considered to fall within the protective scope of the present technical solution, as claimed in the following.

Claims

1) An apparatus (1) for adapting boxes (S) having an equiangular quadrilateral base to contents (C) accommodated therein, comprising:

- a frame (10);

- four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d), each comprising a scoring tool (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) and an opposite side (25a, 25b, 25c, 25d) to the scoring tool (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) which cooperate to impress a box (S);

- four cutting implements (27a, 27b, 27c, 27d) for cutting the box (S);

- actuator means (111, 112) configured to move at least two of the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d);

- a control unit (8) which controls at least the actuator means (111, 112); wherein:

- the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) are arranged so as to be at a respective corner of the box (S) and are vertically movable with respect to the frame (10), so as to be positioned on the basis of the contents accommodated in the box (S);

- the four cutting implements (27a, 27b, 27c, 27d) are vertically movable with respect to the frame (10) together with the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) and are configured to vertically cut the box (S) between two adjacent flanks;

- each scoring tool (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) comprises a first part (13a, 13b, 13c, 13d) which extends in a first direction (A) and a second part (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d) which extends in a second direction (B), perpendicular to the first direction (A), so as to impress two adjacent flanks of the box (S);

- the control unit (8) is configured to arrange the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) on the basis of at least one dimension of the base of the box (S); the apparatus (1) being characterised in that:

- at least a portion of the first part (13a) of a first scoring tool (12a) is locatable above the first part (13b) of a second scoring tool (12b), or vice versa;

- at least a portion of the first part (13c) of a third scoring tool (12c) is locatable above the first part (13d) of a fourth scoring tool (12d), or vice versa;

- the actuator means (111, 112) move at least two of the four scoring implements (11 a, 11 b, 11 c, 11 d) in the first direction (A) from a position in which the first parts

(13a, 13c) of the first scoring tool (12a) and of the third scoring tool (12c) are above or below the respective first part (13b, 13d) of the second scoring tool (12b) or of the fourth scoring tool (12d) to a position in which the first scoring tool (12a) is distanced from the second scoring tool (12b) and the third scoring tool (12c) is distanced from the fourth scoring tool (12d) in the first direction (A).

2) The apparatus (1) of the preceding claim, wherein:

- the actuator means (111, 112) are configured to move at least three of the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d);

- the control unit (8) is configured to arrange the four scoring implements (11a, 11 b, 11 c, 11 d) on the basis of the two dimensions of the base of the box (S);

- the actuator means (111, 112) move at least two of the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) in the second direction (B) from a position in which the second parts (16a, 16b) of the first scoring tool (12a) and of the second scoring tool (12b) are above or below the respective second part (16c, 16d) of the third scoring tool (12c) or of the fourth scoring tool (12d) to a position in which the first scoring tool (12a) is distanced from the third scoring tool (12c) and the second scoring tool (12b) is distanced from the fourth scoring tool (12d) in the second direction (B).

3) The apparatus (1) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the first parts (13a, 13b, 13c, 13d) comprises a first bevel (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d) and wherein the first bevels (15a, 15d) of the first parts (13a, 13d) which are located above the other first parts (13b, 13c) face upwards while the first bevels of the other first parts (13b, 13c) face downwards.

4) The apparatus (1) of claim 3, wherein, for each scoring tool (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d), the first part (13a, 13b, 13c, 13d) is in a single piece with the second part (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d) and the second part (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d) comprises a second bevel (18a, 18b, 18c, 18d) arranged on the same side as the first bevel (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d) and wherein each scoring tool (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) has the first bevel (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d) and the second bevel (18a, 18b, 18c, 18d) turned in an opposite direction with respect to the scoring tool (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) between which it is interposed.

5) The apparatus (1) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first parts (13a, 13b, 13c, 13d), which are superposable with one another, both comprise a respective first scoring blade (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d) which is arranged on or near to the flank facing towards the other first part (13a, 13b, 13c, 13d).

6) The apparatus (1) of any one of the preceding claims, comprising a sizing head (101) which is vertically movable with respect to the frame (10) and which supports the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) so that they perform the same vertical displacements and wherein the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) are connected to one another in pairs so as to perform the same displacements in the first direction (A).

7) The apparatus (1) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) comprises a linear guide (19a, 19b, 19c, 19d) comprising a slide (21a, 21b, 21c, 21 d) and a rail (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) which is arranged in a respective oblique direction (Oad, Obc) which lies in a substantially horizontal plane and is oblique to both the first direction (A) and the second direction (B) and wherein each of the scoring tools (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) is solidly constrained to a respective slide (21a, 21b, 21c, 21 d).

8) The apparatus (1) of the preceding claim, comprising a shim (30) which is interposed between a slide (21a, 21b, 21c, 21 d) and the respective scoring tool

(12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) so that the scoring tool (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) is located lower with respect to those between which it is interposed.

9) The apparatus (1) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each cutting tool (27a, 27b, 27c, 27d) comprises a cutter and an alternating motion device (29a, 29b, 29c, 29d) which is configured to move the cutter while the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) are moved vertically downwards. 10) The apparatus (1) of the preceding claim, wherein each cutting tool (27a, 27b, 27c, 27d) is movable with respect to an external rail (28a, 28b, 28c, 28d) which is solidly constrained to a respective opposite side (25a, 25b, 25c, 25d) and which is arranged in an oblique direction to the first direction (A) and to the second direction (B).

11) A packaging system (100) comprising:

- a forming station (3) of the boxes (S) which comprises two or more stores (31a, 31b, 31c, 31 d), each for containing boxes (S) to be formed having predetermined and different dimensions between one store (31a, 31b, 31c, 31 d) and the other; - a loading station (4) of the boxes (S);

- an apparatus (1) for adapting the boxes (S) to the contents (C) accommodated therein according to any one of the preceding claims;

- a closing station (5) of the boxes (S); wherein the control unit (8) is configured to arrange the four scoring implements (11a, 11b, 11c, 11 d) on the basis of the store (31a, 31b, 31c, 31 d) from which the box (S) to be formed has been collected.

12) A method for packaging products (P) comprising steps of:

- providing an apparatus (1) for adapting the boxes (S) to the contents (C) accommodated therein according to one of the preceding claim 1 to 10; - providing two or more stores (31a, 31b, 31c, 31 d), each for containing boxes (S) to be formed;

- providing at least a first and a second box (S) to be formed having different base dimensions from one another;

- arranging the at least a first and a second box (S) to be formed in the stores (31a, 31b, 31c, 31 d), memorising the arrangement;

- collecting a box (S) to be formed from a store (31a, 31b, 31c, 31 d);

- forming a box (S) from the box (S) to be formed, collected in such a way as to be open in an upwards direction; - inserting one or more products (P) into the formed box (S);

- impressing the box (S) which contains one or more products (P) so as to realise score lines (S1) at a height of the box (S) determined on the basis of a height extension of the one or more products (P) inside the box (S); - closing the box (S) by folding the flaps along the score lines (S1);

- sealing the box (S) closed with a seal (S2); wherein in the step of sealing the box (S) closed, the position of the seal (S2) is determined on the basis of the store (31a, 31b, 31c, 31 d) from which the box (S) to be formed has been collected and from the height at which the score lines (S1) have been made, so that the seal (S2) secures the end of the flap folded above the other flaps.