WO2023172184A1

WO2023172184A1 - Machine and method for packaging items

Info

Publication number: WO2023172184A1
Application number: PCT/SE2023/050211
Authority: WO
Inventors: Thomas Poppe
Original assignee: Ikea Supply Ag
Priority date: 2022-03-10
Filing date: 2023-03-08
Publication date: 2023-09-14

Abstract

The invention relates to a machine (2) for packaging items (4), wherein the machine comprises a platform (6) having an upper surface (8) and an opening (10) in the upper surface, wherein the opening is sized so that the item to be packaged fits in the opening. The machine 2 further comprising an item support surface (14) for supporting the item (4) from below, wherein the item support surface (14) is arranged in said opening (10). The machine 2 further comprising a device for movement of the item support surface (14) relative to the upper surface (8) of the platform from an upper position to a lower position so as to cause at least one sheet of packaging material having an extension that is larger than an extension of the opening (10) and which is arranged on top of the item support surface (14) and below the item to be packaged, to be at least partly drawn into the opening.

Description

Machine and method for packaging items

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention relates to a machine and a method for packaging items, especially but not limited to fragile items, such as plates. Such items may alternatively be named tiles, porcelain, china, crockery, tablewear or ceramic. More specifically, there is a desire to package a plurality of same-sized items placed on top of each other forming a pile/stack.

The items are packaged via wrapping a sheet of packaging material around the item(s). The sheet of packaging material may be formed by a flexible material, such as a structure of fiber material. The term fiber material relates to a lignocellulose-containing material. More specifically, the sheet of packaging material may be formed by a cardboard material. Further, the sheet of packaging material may be provided with fold indications.

PRIOR ART

EP 0216235 regards a method and a machine for sorting, stacking and packaging ceramic tiles. More specifically, a plurality of horizontally disposed conveyor belts feed single tiles to a vertically disposed descent conveyor where the tiles are stacked. The descent conveyor carries hinged bearers arranged on chain loops, which support stacks of tiles during the descent. A sheet of cardboard is fed horizontally to a position below the bearers carrying a stack of tiles. The bearers come into contact with the cardboard sheet urging it downwards through a gap between two rollers, wherein the cardboard sheet is folded. When the stack reaches a support surface, the bearers follow a path dictated by the chain rollers and ride over the cardboard sheet before assuming a stowed position on an outer branch of the chain loop. The descent is terminated with the stack enveloped at bottom, front and rear. In next steps, top, bottom and side flaps are folded down to complete the package.

SUMMARY

A first object of the invention is to provide a machine for packaging items, especially piles of plates, which is cost-efficient and creates conditions for a robust packaging.

The object is achieved by a device according to claim 1. Thus, it is achieved by a machine for packaging items, wherein the machine comprises a platform having an upper surface and an opening in the upper surface, wherein the opening is sized so that the item to be packaged fits in the opening, wherein the machine further comprises an item support surface for supporting the item from below, wherein the item support surface is arranged in said opening, and wherein the machine further comprises a device for movement of the item support surface relative to the upper surface of the platform from an upper position to a lower position so as to cause at least one sheet of packaging material having an extension that is larger than an extension of the opening and which is arranged on top of the item support surface and below the item to be packaged, to be at least partly drawn into the opening.

According to one example, the upper surface of the platform is sized to support the at least one sheet of packaging material so that it covers the opening. The upper surface of the platform is preferably formed by a continuous upper surface surrounding the opening. Further, the upper surface of the platform preferably extends in a horizontal plane.

Further, the upper surface of the platform is preferably flat.

According to a further example, the platform is formed by a base table. The platform may comprise a board that is positioned in parallel with the horizontal plane and at a distance from the ground/floor, wherein an upper surface of the board forms the upper surface of the platform.

According to an alternative example, the platform may be provided with a plurality of upper surfaces, which jointly define the opening.

According to one example, the item support surface has the same shape as the shape of the opening. Further, a surface size of the item support surface is the same or somewhat small than a cross section size of the opening. In other words, there is no gap, or only a small gap, between the item support surface and the upper surface.

According to a further example, the item support surface comprises at least one suction opening, wherein the suction opening is adapted to pull the at least one sheet of packaging material onto the item support surface through a vacuum pump and thus assure a non-moveable position of a portion of the at least one sheet of packaging material during the folding operation. According to a further example, the at least one sheet of packaging material comprises a first sheet, which comprises a main portion that is adapted for receipt of said item and at least one flap portion adjacent the main portion. The flap portion is adapted to be folded around the item. The first sheet may be provided with a fold indication between the main portion and the flap portion. According to one example, the first sheet comprises two flap portions on opposite sides of the main portion, wherein the flap portions may be folded around the item from opposite directions and connected to each other on top of the item.

According to one example, the first sheet is elongated and in the form of a strip. An extension of the strip in a transverse direction relative to its longitudinal direction may be significantly smaller than a corresponding extension of the item to be packaged. Consequently, the strip may be arranged for protecting any projecting parts of item and/or be arranged to package a plurality of items, such as a pile of plates. Further, the at least one sheet of packaging material comprises a second sheet in the form of a strip, wherein the two strips may be arranged perpendicular relative to one another in a cross shape and on top of each other on the upper surface of the platform. According to an alternative, one single sheet may have the form of such a cross.

According to an alternative example, the main portion may have a larger extension in a transverse direction than a strip and more particularly have an extension in the transverse direction up to a complete match of a corresponding extension of the item to be packaged. According to one example, the main portion may have a rectangular shape, wherein the extensions of the main portion in two opposite directions match the maximum extensions of the item in two opposite directions. In case the item to be packaged has a circular shape, the maximum extension is the diameter of the item. Further, the flap portion may also have a rectangular shape, wherein the complete first sheet may have a rectangular shape. In this way, an edge of the item may be completely surrounded and thereby protected by the at least one sheet of packaging material. In a similar manner as was described for the strips, two separate such rectangular sheets may be arranged perpendicular relative to one another in a cross shape and on top of each other on the upper surface of the platform. According to an alternative, one single sheet may have the form of such a cross.

Further, the wording “drawn into the opening” may comprise only under the weight of the item and/or via some kind of pressure/suction. More specifically, the sheet of packaging material provided on top of the item support surface and below the item may be folded during said relative movement.

According to an embodiment example, the machine comprises a folding arrangement for folding the at least one sheet of packaging material around the item, wherein the folding arrangement comprises a first folding structure arranged on at least one side of the opening, wherein the first folding structure is adapted to contact a flap portion of the at least one sheet of packaging material adjacent a main portion of the at least one sheet of packaging material that is adapted for receipt of said item so that the flap portion is folded around a lower edge of the item. This example embodiment creates further conditions for a cost-efficient machine.

According to a further embodiment example, the first folding structure is arranged on at least one further side of the opening for folding a further flap portion of the at least one sheet of packaging material, which is adjacent the main portion of the at least one sheet of packaging material, so that the further flap portion is folded around the lower edge of the item.

According to one example, the first folding structure is arranged on two opposite sides of the opening for folding two opposite flap portions around the item. According to a further example, the first folding structure is arranged on a further side of the opening, which further side is arranged between the two opposite sides of the opening for folding a third flap portion in a direction perpendicular to the folding of the two opposite flap portions. According to a further embodiment example, the first folding structure is stationary.

According to a further embodiment example, the first folding structure comprises a part of the platform defining the opening. According to one example, the first folding structure may be formed by an edge of the board defining the opening.

According to a further embodiment example, the folding arrangement comprises a second folding structure arranged at least on the same side of the opening as the first folding structure, wherein the second folding structure comprises a movable member that is movably arranged relative to the platform between a retracted position, where a contact section of the movable member is at a distance from the opening, and an advanced position, where the contact section is overlapping with the opening, for contacting the flap portion of the sheet of packaging material so that the flap portion is folded around an upper edge of the item. This example embodiment creates further conditions for folding of the flap portion in a second step so that the flap portion is folded down on top of the item.

According to a further development of the last-mentioned embodiment example, the second folding structure is arranged on the further side of the opening, wherein the second folding structure comprises a further movable member that is movably arranged relative to the platform between a retracted position, where a contact section of the further movable member is at a distance from the opening, and an advanced position, where the contact section is overlapping with the opening, for contacting the further flap portion of the sheet of packaging material so that the further flap portion is folded around the upper edge of the item.

This example embodiment creates further conditions for folding of the further flap portion in a second step so that also the further flap portion is folded down on top of the item. According to one example, the lengths of the flap portions are such that they meet on top of the item and preferably may be arranged in an overlapping state on top of the item.

According to a further development of the last-mentioned embodiment example, the movable member is adapted to move along a straight line between the retracted position and the advanced position. This example embodiment creates further conditions for a cost-efficient machine.

According to a further embodiment example, the machine comprises at least one complimentary movable member associated to one of said movable members, wherein the complimentary movable member is arranged for urging one of said flap portions close to a side face of the item before the associated movable member is actuated for folding the flap portion.

According to a further embodiment example, the machine comprises a device for movement of the item in a state at least partly packaged from the lower position in a transverse direction relative to a direction defined by the movement from the upper position to the lower position.

According to one example, the movement from the upper position to the lower position is in the vertical direction and the movement of the item in the state at least partly packaged from the lower position is in the horizontal direction. Accordingly, the at least partly packaged item may be moved from the lower position in parallel with and below a lower surface of the platform or the horizontal board of the platform.

Thus, the machine creates conditions for a transfer of the at least partly packaged item from the lower position to a magazine or storing location at a position distant from the opening in the platform and more particularly at a position besides the platform.

According to a further development of the last-mentioned embodiment example, the device for movement of the at least partly packaged item from the lower position is adapted for movement of the item in parallel with and below a lower surface of the platform in a way that one flap portion of the at least one sheet of packaging material is folded by the lower surface and maintained in a folded state during the movement.

This example embodiment creates conditions for a good adhesion of two overlapping flap portions on top of the item in that an adhesive, such as glue, provided between the overlapping flap portions gets a long time to harden.

According to a further embodiment example, the item support surface is at least substantially flush with the upper surface of the platform when it is arranged in the upper position. In this way, the item support surface may cooperate with the upper surface of the platform in supporting the at least one sheet of packaging material before the item is placed on top of the sheet.

According to a further embodiment example, the item support surface is adapted to be lowered relative to the upper surface of the platform to such an extent that an upper face of the item is below the upper surface of the platform when it is arranged in the lower position. In this way, the second folding structure may completely fold the flap portion material from a folded-up state around a lower edge of the item resulting from the lowering of the item support surface relative to the support surface to a folded-down state around an upper edge of the item. According to a further embodiment example, the opening in the platform has a rectangular shape. In this way, each one of the four edges of the platform that defines the rectangular opening may form a part of the first folding structure.

According to a further embodiment example, the machine comprises a device for attaching overlapping flap portions of the at least one sheet of packaging material to each other on top of the item for maintaining the at least one sheet of packaging material in a state surrounding the item.

A second object of the invention is to provide a method for packaging items, especially piles of plates, which is cost-efficient and creates conditions for a robust packaging.

The object is achieved by a method according to claim 16. Thus, it is achieved by a method for packaging items comprising the steps of providing at least one sheet of packaging material with an extension that is larger than an extension of an opening in an upper surface of a platform, placing the at least one sheet of packaging material on the support surface so that it extends over the opening, wherein the opening is sized so that the item to be packaged fits in the opening, placing the item to be packaged on top of the at least one sheet of packaging material and in line with the opening, and lowering an item support surface relative to the support surface, wherein the item support surface is positioned in the opening and adapted for supporting the item from below, so as to cause the at least one sheet of packaging material to be at least partly drawn into the opening.

According to a further embodiment example, the method comprises the step of folding at least one flap portion of the at least one sheet of packaging material from a folded-up state around a lower edge of the item resulting from the lowering of the item support surface relative to the support surface to a folded-down state around an upper edge of the item.

According to a further embodiment example, the method comprises the step of folding a further flap portion of the at least one sheet of packaging material from a folded-up state around the lower edge of the item resulting from the lowering of the item support surface relative to the support surface to a folded-down state around the upper edge of the item so that the further flap portion overlaps with the at least one flap portion. According to a further embodiment example, the method comprises the step of attaching the overlapping flap portions of the at least one sheet of packaging material to each other for maintaining the at least one sheet of packaging material in a state surrounding the item.

According to a further embodiment example, the method comprises the step of moving the item in a state at least partly packaged from a lower position resulting from the step of lowering the item support surface relative to the support surface in a transverse direction relative to a direction defined by the movement from an upper position to the lower position.

Further advantages and advantageous features of the invention are disclosed in the following description and in the dependent claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

With reference to the appended drawings, below follows a more detailed description of embodiments of the invention cited as examples.

In the drawings:

Fig. 1 is a perspective view from the top of a machine for packaging items according to a first embodiment,

Fig. 2-6 disclose consecutive steps in a folding operation with the machine according to fig.1 in a similar perspective view from the top,

Fig. 7 discloses the machine in a cross section view corresponding to fig. 6,

Fig. 8 discloses a consecutive step in the folding operation with the machine according to fig.7 in a similar cross section view,

Fig. 9-15 disclose consecutive steps in a folding operation with the machine according to fig.8 in a similar perspective view from the top as in fig. 1-7, and

Fig. 16 discloses a perspective view from the top of a machine arrangement comprising four work stations, wherein each work station comprises the items packaging machine according to the first embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

Fig. 1 is a perspective view from the top of a machine 2 for packaging items 4, see fig. 4, according to a first embodiment. The machine comprises a platform 6 having an upper surface 8 and an opening 10 in the upper surface 8, wherein the opening 10 is sized so that the item 4 to be packaged fits in the opening 8.

The upper surface 8 of the platform 6 is formed by a continuous upper surface surrounding the opening 10. Further, the upper surface 8 of the platform 6 extends in a horizontal plane. Further, the upper surface 8 of the platform is flat.

In other words, the platform 6 is formed by a base table. More specifically, the platform 6 comprises a board 12 that is positioned in parallel with the horizontal plane and at a distance from the ground/floor, wherein an upper surface of the board 12 forms the upper surface 8 of the platform 6.

The item 4 is in the first embodiment a pile of plates, see fig. 4. In the shown example, the plates are of the same shape and dimension. More specifically, each plate has a circular shape with a flat central portion and an inclined rim around the flat central portion. The opening 10 has a rectangular shape and more particularly a square shape. The opening 10 is sized so that a distance between opposed edges is somewhat larger than a diameter of the plates. Thus, the opening 10 is sized so as to admit passage of the item 4.

The machine 2 further comprises an item support surface 14 for supporting the item 4 from below, wherein the item support surface 14 is arranged in said opening 10. The item support surface 14 has the same shape as the shape of the opening 10. Further, a surface size of the item support surface 14 is somewhat smaller than a size of the opening in a horizontal cross section. In other words, there is a small gap between the item support surface 14 and the upper surface 8. The item support surface 4 is at least substantially flush with the upper surface 8 of the platform 6 when it is arranged in an upper position.

The item support surface 14 comprises a board 16 that is positioned in parallel with the horizontal plane, wherein an upper surface of the board 16 forms an upper surface of the item support surface 14.

The machine 2 further comprises a device 18 for movement of the item support surface 14 relative to the upper surface 8 of the platform 6 from the upper position to a lower position so as to cause at least one sheet of packaging material 20, see fig. 2 and fig. 7, having an extension that is larger than an extension of the opening 10 and which is arranged on top of the item support surface 14 and below the item 4 to be packaged, to be at least partly drawn into the opening 10. The item support surface 14 is adapted to be lowered relative to the upper surface 8 of the platform 6 to such an extent that an upper face of the item 4 is below the upper surface of the platform when it is arranged in the lower position. More specifically, the item support surface 14 is adapted to be lowered relative to the upper surface 8 of the platform 6 to such an extent that an upper face of the item 4 is below a lower surface of the board 12 of the platform 6 when it is arranged in the lower position. The device 18 for movement of the item support surface 14 is adapted for a controlled descent of the item 4. In other words, the item support surface 14 is urged downwards towards the lower position, wherein the descent is terminated when the item support surface 14 reaches the lower position. Thus, the device 18 for movement of the item support surface 14 is adapted for feeding the item 4 vertically downwards. The device 18 for movement of the item support surface 14 is positioned vertically below the item support surface 14. Further, device 18 for movement of the item support surface 14 is formed by a piston-cylinder arrangement.

Further, the machine 2 comprises a movable upper support member 19, which is adapted to be descended from a retracted position to an advanced position in contact with an upper surface of the pile of plates 4 for holding the pile of plates in an operative position on top of the item support surface 14 during the downwards movement of the item support surface 14, see fig. 5. The movable upper support member 19 may be formed by an extendable arm.

The sheet of packaging material 20 may be formed by a flexible material, such as a structure of fiber material. The term fiber material relates to a lignocellulose-containing material. More specifically, the sheet of packaging material 20 may be formed by a cardboard material. Further, the sheet of packaging material 20 may be provided with fold indications 30, 31 , 32, 33. The fold indications may be provided along straight lines for alignment with edges of the item 4. Further, the sheet of packaging material 20 may be pre-creased.

The at least one sheet of packaging material 20 comprises a first sheet 22, which comprises a main portion 24 that is adapted for receipt of said item 4 and at least one flap portion 26, 28 adjacent the main portion 24, see fig. 2. The flap portion 26, 28 is adapted to be folded around the item 4. The first sheet 22 may be provided with a fold indication 30, 32 between the main portion 24 and the flap portion 26, 28. More specifically, the first sheet 22 comprises two flap portions 26, 28 on opposite sides of the main portion 24, wherein the flap portions 26, 28 may be folded around the item from opposite directions and connected to each other on top of the item, see further description below.

More specifically, the first sheet 22 is elongated and in the form of a strip. An extension of the strip in a transverse direction relative to its longitudinal direction is significantly smaller than a corresponding extension of the item 4 to be packaged. Further, a length of the strip 22 is substantially longer than an extension of the opening 10 in a plane in parallel with the upper support surface 8.

Further, the at least one sheet of packaging material 20 comprises a second sheet 34, also in the form of a strip and preferably of the same size and dimension as the first strip 22. The two strips 22, 34 are arranged perpendicular relative to one another in a cross shape and on top of each other on the upper surface 8 of the platform 6. More specifically, the two strips 22, 34 are arranged so that the overlap is positioned centrally with regard to the opening 10. The first and second sheet 22, 34 are attached to each other in the cross shape so as to act like a single unit. More specifically, the first and second sheet 22, 34 are attached to each other via an adhesive. According to an alternative, one single sheet may be produced to have the form of such a cross.

Further, the item support surface 14 comprises at least one suction opening 35, 37, 39, wherein the suction opening is adapted to pull the at least one sheet of packaging material 20 onto the item support surface 14 through a vacuum pump (not shown) and thus assure a non-moveable position of a portion of the at least one sheet of packaging material 20 during the folding operation. It may be noted that only one of the suction openings 37 will overlap with the at least one sheet of package material 20 in an operative state before receipt of the item 4, wherein the further openings 35, 39 are inoperative in the shown embodiment. However, the shown configuration of suction openings 35, 37, 39 may be used for a larger size of the at least one sheet of package material than the one shown in the first embodiment.

Referring now to fig. 1 and fig.2. The machine 2 further comprises a folding arrangement

36 for folding the at least one sheet of packaging material 20 around the item. The folding arrangement 36 comprises a first folding structure 38 arranged on at least one side 40 of the opening 10, wherein the first folding structure 38 is adapted to contact a first flap portion 26 of the first strip of packaging material 22 so that the first flap portion 26 is folded around a lower edge (the periphery of the rim of the lowermost plate) of the pile of plates 4.

More specifically, the first folding structure 38 is arranged on two opposite sides 40, 42 of the opening 8 for folding two opposite flap portions 26, 28 of the first strip 22 around the pile of plates 4. More specifically, the first folding structure 38 is also arranged on a further side 44 of the opening, which further side is arranged between the two opposite sides 40, 42 of the opening 10 for folding a third flap portion 46 of the second strip 34 in a direction perpendicular to the folding of the two opposite flap portions 26, 28. More specifically, the first folding structure 38 is arranged on two opposite sides 44, 48 of the opening 10 for folding two opposite flap portions 46, 52 of the second strip 34 around the pile of plates 4.

The first folding structure 38 is stationary. More specifically, the first folding structure 38 comprises a part of the platform 6 defining the opening 10. According to one example, the first folding structure 38 is formed by an edge 50 of the board 12 defining the opening 10.

In fig 3, the machine 2 is shown with the two strips 22, 34 arranged in a cross over the opening 10. The upper surface 8 of the platform 6 may be recessed (not shown) so that an end of the at least one sheet of packaging material 20 is received in the recess for facilitating a sliding of a pile of plates 4 onto the sheet of packaging material 20. Further, the machine may comprise a mechanical stop (not shown) for the movement of the pile of plates 4 to its intended position centrally on the item support surface 14.

In fig. 4, the machine is shown with the pile of plates 4 on top of the two strips 22, 34. More specifically, the pile of plates 4 are arranged in an upside-down state so that a periphery of the rim of the lowermost plate rests on the item support surface 14 via the strips 22, 34. Arranging the pile of plates 4 in such an upside-down state creates conditions for a tight folding of the strips around the pile of plates.

In fig. 5, the machine 2 is shown in a state where the item support surface 14 has been lowered to a position where its upper surface is lower than the upper surface 8 of the platform 6. The flap portions 26, 28, 46, 52 of the at least one sheet 20 of packaging material have been pushed by the edges 50 of the opening 10 during the lowering of the item support surface 14 relative to the support surface 8 and are here in a folded-up state around the lower edge of the pile of plates. More specifically, the flap portions 26, 28, 46, 52 project upwards and are inclined somewhat outwards.

In fig. 6, the machine 2 is shown in a state where the item support surface 14 has been further lowered in relation to the upper surface 8 of the platform 6. The flap portions 26, 28, 46, 52 are here in a state projecting substantially vertically upwards, wherein they are in a close proximity to a side surface of the pile of plates 4 along a complete vertical extension of the side surface. In other words, the flap portions 26, 28, 46, 52 are in close proximity of the peripheries of all plates in the pile of plates 4.

Turning now to fig. 9, the folding arrangement 36 comprises a second folding structure 54 arranged at least on the same side of the opening as the first folding structure 38, wherein the second folding structure comprises a first movable member 56 that is movably arranged relative to the platform between a retracted position, where a contact section 58 of the first movable member is at a distance from the opening, and an advanced position, where the contact section 58 is overlapping with the opening, for contacting the first flap portion 26 of the first strip 22 so that the first flap portion 26 is folded around an upper edge of the pile of plates 4. The upper edge of the pile of plates 4 is the periphery of the rim of the uppermost plate in the tray. Now, the first flap portion 26 is folded to a folded- down state around the upper edge of the pile of plates 4 so that the first flap portion 26 is in contact with a surface of the uppermost plate in the pile facing upwards. The first movable member 56 is adapted so that the contact section 58 reaches about halfway into the opening in the advanced position.

The machine 2 further comprises a device 64 for attaching overlapping flap portions 26, 28 of the at least one sheet of packaging material 20 to each other on top of the pile of plates 4 for maintaining the at least one sheet of packaging material 20 in a state surrounding the item. More specifically, the device 64 comprises a nozzle 66 for applying an adhesive 67, see fig. 10. The device 64 is adapted to apply the adhesive 67 on an upwards facing surface of the first flap portion 26. The device 64 is movably arranged in a vertical direction for descending towards the item 4 to be packaged for applying the adhesive from a position in close proximity above the first flap portion 26 and then ascending again to a retracted position. Turning now to fig. 11, the second folding structure 54 is also arranged on the opposite side of the opening 10. More specifically, the second folding structure 54 comprises a second movable member 60 that is movably arranged relative to the platform 4 between a retracted position, where a contact section 62 of the second movable member 60 is at a distance from the opening, and an advanced position, where the contact section 62 is overlapping with the opening, for contacting the second flap portion 28 of the first strip 22 so that the second flap portion is folded around the upper edge of the pile of plates 4. Now, the second flap portion 28 is folded to a folded-down state around the upper edge of the pile of plates 4 so that the second flap portion 28 is in contact with a surface of the first flap portion 26 facing upwards. The second movable member 60 is adapted so that contact section 62 reaches about halfway into the opening in the advanced position.

Thus, the first and second flap portions 26, 28 are now in an overlapping state, wherein the overlapping sections coincide with the applied adhesive.

Turning now to fig. 12. The second folding structure 54 comprises a third movable member 68 that is movably arranged relative to the platform 4 between a retracted position, where a contact section 70 of the third movable member 68 is at a distance from the opening, and an advanced position, where the contact section 70 is overlapping with the opening. Further, the third movable member 68 is arranged for movement perpendicularly relative to the first movable member, for contacting the third flap portion 46 of the second strip 34 so that the third flap portion is folded around the upper edge of the pile of plates 4. Now, the third flap portion 46 is folded to a folded-down state around the upper edge of the pile of plates 4 so that the third flap portion 46 is in contact with a surface of the second flap portion 28 facing upwards. The third movable member 68 is adapted so that the contact section 70 reaches about halfway into the opening in the advanced position.

Each one of the movable members 56, 60, 68 is adapted to move along a straight line between the retracted position and the advanced position. Each one of the movable members 56, 60, 68 is formed by a piston-cylinder arrangement. Further, each one of the contact sections 58, 62, 70 of the associated movable member 56, 60, 68 comprises a flat surface that is adapted to ride on the associated flap portion during the advancement and folding operation. More specifically, each one of the contact sections 58, 62, 70 comprises a thin member which comprises the flat surface. Further, the thin member has a rectangular shape.

In a next step, see fig. 13, the device 64 for applying an adhesive applies adhesive 71 on an upwards facing surface of the third flap portion 46.

Referring now to fig. 13 and 14, the machine 2 comprises a device 72 for movement of the pile of plates 4 in a state partly packaged from the lower position in a transverse direction relative to a direction defined by the movement from the upper position to the lower position. The movement device 72 is adapted to move along a straight line between a retracted position and an advanced position. A contact section 74 of the movement device 72 is at a distance from one side of the opening in the retracted position and on an opposite side of the opening in the advanced position. More specifically, the device 72 for movement of the partly packaged pile of plates 4 from the lower position is adapted for movement of the pile of plates 4 in parallel with and below a lower surface of the platform in a way that the fourth flap portion 52 of the second strip 34 is folded by the lower surface and maintained in a folded state during the movement. Thus, the contact section 74 of the movement device 72 is adapted to pass over the complete extension of the opening 10 between the retracted position and the advanced position. In this way, the adhesive, which may be glue, will have sufficient time to harden properly creating conditions for a secure attachment of the flap portions. The movement device 72 is formed by a pistoncylinder arrangement.

Further, the machine 2 comprises a guide section 76 for receiving the packaged pile of trays, see fig. 15. The guide section 76 is formed by a U-shaped profile that is secured to an underside of the board 12 and has a width sufficient for receipt of the pile of trays 4. The guide section 76 has a longitudinal extension that is longer than an extension of the pile of plates 4 for allowing storing of the pile of plates 4. Thus, the movement device 72 is adapted to so that the pile of plates 4 may be moved from its lowered position in the opening 10 to an entrance of the guide section 76. Further, an item support portion 77 of the guide section 76 is arranged so that a vertical distance between an upper surface of the item support portion 77 and a lower surface of the board 12 of the platform 6 matches a vertical extension of the package so that the adhesive may get further time to harden when the package is received in the guide section 76. The package is now in readiness for further transport. According to one example, a conveyor (not shown) may be arranged at an exit of the guide section 76 for receipt of the pile of plates 4 and further transporting the pile of plates 4. According to one example, the packaged pile of plates 4 rests in the guide section 76 until a next packaged pile of plates is entering the guide section 76, wherein the packaged pile of plates 4 is pushed in the extension direction of the guide section 76 by the incoming next packaged pile of plates.

Referring now to fig. 7 and 8. The machine 2 further comprises at least one complimentary movable member 80, 82 that is movably arranged relative to the platform 4 between a retracted position, where a contact section 84, 86 of the respective complimentary movable member 80, 82 is at a distance from the opening, and an advanced position, where the contact section 84, 86 is overlapping with the opening. Each one of the at least one complimentary movable member 80, 82 is adapted for pushing one of said flap portions 26, 28 to being in close contact with or at least close to a side face of the item 4 to be packaged before an associated one of the first, second or third movable member 56, 60, 68 is actuated. The complimentary movable member 80, 82 is adapted so that the contact section 84, 86 reaches only a small distance into the opening in the advanced position. Thus, the at least one complimentary movable member 80, 82 is adapted for a tight fit of the at least one sheet of package material 20 around the pile of plates 4.

Referring now to fig. 15. The machine 2 further comprises at least one additional movable member 90, 92, 94, 96 that is movably arranged relative to the platform 6 between a retracted position, where a contact section 98 of the complimentary movable member 90 is at a distance away from the opening, or substantially flush with an edge of the opening, and an advanced position, where the contact section 98 is overlapping with the opening. The at least one additional movable member 90, 92, 94, 96 is adapted for limiting an affective area of the opening in order to facilitate packaging of differently sized items and especially items of considerably smaller dimension than the plates according to the example described. Thus, in contrast to the other movable members, the at least one additional movable member 90, 92, 94, 96 would be set in a predetermined extension state corresponding to a specific shape and size of an item to be packaged before the packaging procedure starts and maintained in that predetermined extension state throughout the packaging procedure. The item support surface 14 comprises a plurality of recesses 91 , see fig.1 , corresponding to the number of additional movable member 90, 92, 94, 96 for receipt of the additional movable members 90, 92, 94, 96 in an extended state. Each one of the recesses 91 is open towards an outer exterior edge of the item support surface 14.

According to an alternative, the at least one additional movable member 90, 92, 94, 96 may be used in a machine in combination with an item support surface of considerable smaller dimension than the one shown above for packaging of items with a smaller dimension than the plates described above. Thus, the item support surface 14 may be replaceable for one single platform 6.

Fig. 16 discloses a machine arrangement 100 comprises a plurality of work stations 102, 104, 106, 108. Each one of the four work stations 102, 104, 106, 108 is adapted to work according to the principles for operation of the machine 2 described above. The machine arrangement 100 further comprises two storages of sheets of packaging material 110, 112 and an associated equipment 114, 116 for picking sheets of packaging material from the storages 110, 112 and positioning the sheets of packaging material on top of the item support surface of the respective work station 102, 104, 106, 108. More specifically, one picking equipment serves two work stations. According to one example, the respective picking equipment 114 comprises a robot 115 that is movably arranged on a track 117 and adapted to pick a first strip and put it on the upper support surface 4. Adhesive is applied in e central portion of the strip. The robot 114 then picks a second strip and position it perpendicular on top of the first strip so that a cross is formed of the two strips and then position the cross in an operative position on top of the item support surface of the work station 106, 108.

The machine arrangement 100 further comprises a storage of plates 118 serving all four work stations 102, 104, 106, 108 and equipment 120 for picking/gripping a desired number of plates form the storage of plates 118 and positioning/offloading the plates on top of the sheets of packaging material. More specifically, the plates are arranged in a way that their lower surfaces face downwards and their upper surfaces face upwards in the storage 118. The equipment 120 therefore comprises a robot 121 , which is movably arranged on a track 123 and adapted to turn a selected number of plates picked from the storage 118 180 degrees before positioning them in an upside down state on top of a conveyor 125. The conveyor 125 is adapted to convey the pile of plates along a horizontal straight line. Further, the conveyor 125 is adapted to move the pile of plates to a lengthwise position corresponding to a position of an item support surface of a workstation. A shovel 127, which is movably arranged on a track 129 is then adapted to push the pile of plates perpendicularly from the conveyor 125 to the item support surface of a respective work station 102,106. More specifically, the track 29 extends perpendicular to the track 117.

According to one example, at least two of the plurality of work stations 102, 104, 106, 108 in the machine arrangement 100 may be adapted for packaging a different number of plates. For example, a first one of the plurality of work stations 102 may be adapted to package a pile of eight plates, a second one of the plurality of work stations 104 may be adapted to package a pile of six plates, a third one of the plurality of work stations 106 may be adapted to package a pile of four plates and a fourth one of the plurality of work stations 108 may be adapted to package a pile of two plates. The design of the guide section 76 may then be matched in each work station for the specific number of plates that it is designed for in order to maintain a pressure on the package for hardening of the adhesive for different heights of the pile of plates.

It is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and illustrated in the drawings; rather, the skilled person will recognize that many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the appended claims.

According to an alternative design of the platform, the upper surface of the platform may be discontinuous in a direction around the opening. More specifically, the upper surface of the platform may comprise discrete contact areas or points circumferentially spaced around the opening. In other words, the upper surface forming support for the sheet of packaging material is adapted to provide support in at least two contact points located opposite each other of the opening, preferably in at least three contact points distributed around the opening and especially in at least four contact points distributed around the opening.

According to an alternative to using two separate sheets in the form of strips, a single sheet of packaging material in the shape of a cross may be used.

According to an alternative to using thin strips for the packaging, the at least one sheet of packaging material may be formed by a rectangular sheet with a transverse extension commensurate with or slightly smaller than a corresponding extension of the opening for covering the item to be packaged to a greater extent. More specifically, the machine may be used for forming a receptacle from at least one sheet and may be used for making a container (erecting a carton) by folding the sheet.

According to an alternative to the shown design of the guide section 76, it may be complemented by a tapering spring loaded plate section for maintaining a pressure on the package for hardening of the adhesive for different heights of the pile of plates 4.

Further, it should be clear for a person skilled in the art that the machine may be adapted for packaging items of different size and dimension relative to (circular) plates. For example, a plurality of flat rectangular items, which are not fragile, such as wooden boards, side units, or similar, for cabinets/shelves may be packaged via such a machine. Further, the machine is not limited to packaging a pile of items. A plurality of items may be arranged in a different manner than on top of each other, such as next to one another, in an initial state as input to the machine. According to a further example, single flat rectangular items, such as a shelf or a cabinet door may be packaged by the machine. According to a further example, a single elongated item, such as a leg for a table, may be packaged by the machine. According to a further example, a set of items, which may be of different shapes and possibly jointly are adapted to form a piece of furniture, or part thereof, may first be arranged in a space-efficient way and then packaged jointly by the machine. The machine would be adapted in that the opening in the platform would have a shape and dimension matching the outer contours of such an item or set of items. Further, a plurality of movable members, such as piston-cylinder arrangements may be distributed along each long side of the opening for simultaneous actuation in the folding process.

The sheet of packaging material as described above may be formed by a corrugated cardboard. Such corrugated cardboard may comprise a wave shaped sheet interposed between two flat sheets. Such corrugated cardboard provides strength to allow for stacking of the items and to protect the package's contents. Further, it should be clear for a person skilled in the art that for less fragile items, such as wooden items (boards, cabinet panels, furniture legs etc), the packaging material may be formed by a single sheet (fluted or non-fluted) and/or a thinner structure than corrugated cardboard and it may not necessarily be provided with fold indications.

Claims

1 . A machine (2) for packaging items (4), wherein the machine comprises a platform (6) having an upper surface (8) and an opening (10) in the upper surface, wherein the opening is sized so that the item to be packaged fits in the opening, wherein the machine further comprises an item support surface (14) for supporting the item (4) from below, wherein the item support surface (14) is arranged in said opening (10), and wherein the machine further comprises a device (18) for movement of the item support surface (14) relative to the upper surface (8) of the platform from an upper position to a lower position so as to cause at least one sheet of packaging material (20) having an extension that is larger than an extension of the opening (10) and which is arranged on top of the item support surface (14) and below the item to be packaged, to be at least partly drawn into the opening.

2. A machine according to claim 1 , wherein the machine (2) comprises a folding arrangement (36) for folding the at least one sheet of packaging material around the item, wherein the folding arrangement comprises a first folding structure (38) arranged on at least one side (40) of the opening, wherein the first folding structure is adapted to contact a flap portion (26) of the at least one sheet of packaging material (20) adjacent a main portion (24) of the at least one sheet of packaging material that is adapted for receipt of said item so that the flap portion is folded around a lower edge of the item.

3. A machine according to claim 2, wherein the first folding structure (38) is arranged on at least one further side (44) of the opening for folding a further flap portion (28) of the at least one sheet of packaging material (20), which is adjacent the main portion (24) of the at least one sheet of packaging material, so that the further flap portion is folded around the lower edge of the item.

4. A machine according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the first folding structure (38) is stationary.

5. A machine according to any one of claims 2-4, wherein the first folding structure (38) comprises a part (40, 42) of the platform defining the opening (10).

6. A machine according to any one of claims 2-5, wherein the folding arrangement (36) comprises a second folding structure (54) arranged at least on the same side of the opening as the first folding structure (38), wherein the second folding structure comprises a movable member (56) that is movably arranged relative to the platform between a retracted position, where a contact section (58) of the movable member is at a distance from the opening, and an advanced position, where the contact section is overlapping with the opening, for contacting the flap portion of the sheet of packaging material so that the flap portion is folded around an upper edge of the item.

7. A machine according to claim 3 and 6, wherein the second folding structure is arranged on the further side of the opening, wherein the second folding structure comprises a further movable member (60) that is movably arranged relative to the platform between a retracted position, where a contact section (62) of the further movable member is at a distance from the opening, and an advanced position, where the contact section is overlapping with the opening, for contacting the further flap portion of the sheet of packaging material so that the further flap portion is folded around the upper edge of the item.

8. A machine according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the movable member (56, 60) is adapted to move along a straight line between the retracted position and the advanced position.

9. A machine according to any one of claims 6-8, wherein the machine (2) comprises at least one complimentary movable member (80, 82) associated to one of said movable members (56, 58), wherein the complimentary movable member is arranged for urging one of said flap portions close to a side face of the item before the associated movable member is actuated for folding the flap portion.

10. A machine according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the machine (2) comprises a device (72) for movement of the item in a state at least partly packaged from the lower position in a transverse direction relative to a direction defined by the movement from the upper position to the lower position.

11. A machine according to claim 10, wherein the device (72) for movement of the at least partly packaged item (4) from the lower position is adapted for movement of the item in parallel with and below a lower surface of the platform (4) in a way that one flap portion (52) of the at least one sheet of packaging material is folded by the lower surface and maintained in a folded state during the movement.

12. A machine according to any preceding claim, wherein the item support surface (14) is at least substantially flush with the upper surface (8) of the platform (6) when it is arranged in the upper position.

13. A machine according to any preceding claim, wherein the item support surface (14) is adapted to be lowered relative to the upper surface (8) of the platform (6) to such an extent that an upper face of the item is below the upper surface of the platform when it is arranged in the lower position.

14. A machine according to any preceding claim, wherein the opening (10) has a rectangular shape.

15. A machine according to any preceding claim, wherein the machine (2) comprises a device (64) for attaching overlapping flap portions of the at least one sheet of packaging material (20) to each other on top of the item for maintaining the at least one sheet of packaging material in a state surrounding the item.

16. A machine according to any preceding claim, comprising at least one additional movable member (90, 92, 94, 96) that is movably arranged relative to the platform (6) between a retracted position, where a contact section (98) of the complimentary movable member (90, 92, 94, 96) is at a distance away from the opening (10), or substantially flush with an edge of the opening (10), and an advanced position, where the contact section (98) is overlapping with the opening (10).

17. A method for packaging items comprising the steps of providing at least one sheet of packaging material (20) with an extension that is larger than an extension of an opening (10) in an upper surface (8) of a platform (6), placing the at least one sheet of packaging material (20) on the support surface (8) so that it extends over the opening (10), wherein the opening is sized so that the item (4) to be packaged fits in the opening, placing the item (4) to be packaged on top of the at least one sheet of packaging material (20) and in line with the opening (10), and lowering an item support surface (14) relative to the support surface (8), wherein the item support surface (14) is positioned in the opening (10) and adapted for supporting the item from below, so as to cause the at least one sheet of packaging material (20) to be at least partly drawn into the opening.

18. A method according to claim 17, wherein the method comprises the step of folding at least one flap portion (26) of the at least one sheet of packaging material (20) from a folded-up state around a lower edge of the item (4) resulting from the lowering of the item support surface relative to the upper support surface (8) to a folded-down state around an upper edge of the item.

19. A method according to claim 18, wherein the method comprises the step of folding a further flap portion (28) of the at least one sheet of packaging material (28) from a folded-up state around the lower edge of the item resulting from the lowering of the item support surface relative to the support surface to a folded-down state around the upper edge of the item so that the further flap portion (28) overlaps with the at least one flap portion (26).

20. A method according to claim 19, wherein the method comprises the step of attaching the overlapping flap portions (26, 28) of the at least one sheet of packaging material to each other for maintaining the at least one sheet of packaging material in a state surrounding the item.

21. A method according to any one of claims 17-20, wherein the method comprises the step of moving the item (4) in a state at least partly packaged from a lower position resulting from the step of lowering the item support surface relative to the support surface in a transverse direction relative to a direction defined by the movement from an upper position to the lower position.