WO2024018330A1

WO2024018330A1 - Apparatus for assembling and disassembling modular pallets

Info

Publication number: WO2024018330A1
Application number: PCT/IB2023/057137
Authority: WO
Inventors: Riccardo Serafin
Original assignee: Riccardo Serafin
Priority date: 2022-07-18
Filing date: 2023-07-12
Publication date: 2024-01-25

Abstract

The present invention relates to an apparatus (1) for assembling and disassembling modular pallets and, in particular, to a compact and fully automated apparatus capable of managing with a single structure for assembling and disassembling modular pallets. Furthermore, the apparatus has the possibility of selecting and separating the components of the pallets which cannot be reused from the reusable ones.

Description

“APPARATUS FOR ASSEMBLING AND DISASSEMBLING MODULAR PALLETS’’

DESCRIPTION

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for assembling and disassembling modular pallets and, in particular, to a compact and fully automated apparatus capable of managing with a single structure for assembling and disassembling modular pallets. Furthermore, the apparatus has the possibility of selecting and separating the components of the pallets which cannot be reused from the reusable ones.

STATE OF THE PRIOR ART

[002] The pallets currently available on the market substantially consist of two/three distinct types depending on the material; wooden pallets, cardboard pallets and less frequently plastic pallets. All the types entail forming several feet which support one or more strips or panels where objects to be conveyed are placed. Preferably, the feet are connected to each other by means of connection and reinforcement crosspieces so as to form a rather stable and robust grid. In particular, the feet also act as spacers between the various panels so as to create engagements for the arms and forks of forklifts or other machines for handling and conveying pallets.

[003] With regard to wooden pallets it is known that depending on the type of objects to be conveyed, and above all their size and weight, there are prepared feet, crosspieces and panels measuring different sizes which are then generally nailed to each other to ensure they are safely fixed in a not removable manner.

[004] Cardboard pallets instead are produced through relatively complex processes in which - starting from alveolar cardboard sheets - there are formed feet, crosspieces and possibly even support panels, generally processed so as to create a single structure, that is a support structure made of a single folded piece.

[005] Similarly, plastic pallets are generally moulded as a single piece comprising feet, crosspieces and panels, or these pieces are moulded individually and then irreversibly fixed to each other.

[006] There have been developed apparatus capable of assembling the aforementioned types of pallets, especially those made of multiple elements, which consist of actual complex production lines with various stations for processing and moving individual components of the pallets. In particular, the lines for producing wooden pallets provide for moving panels, crosspieces and feet through designated apparatus so as to position them correctly one on the other and then activate a nail or staple gun for fixing said elements to each other.

[007] Once used, these pallets cannot be disassembled and therefore they are directly disposed of. Similarly, even plastic and cardboard pallets are directly disposed of through rather complex processes which involve transferring pieces to other specific disposal plants where they are treated by designated apparatus, but which - in any case - must first be disassembled or destroyed to recycle the material thereof.

[008] Alternatively, there are modular pallets comprising support feet for panels fixed thereto through reversible locking means. These structures are advantageous given that they can be assembled and disassembled with single components which are recovered or disposed of depending on the wear. Furthermore, they are very versatile given that for example the feet may be mounted and fixed with the special locking means on panels measuring a different size without having to produce specifically-designed panels.

[009] As a result, the tendency is to replace conventional pallets with modular pallets. In any case, assembly and disassembly operations are carried out manually by designated operators. Therefore, currently there is no apparatus capable of automatically assembling and disassembling modular pallets. Furthermore, there is no apparatus capable of selectively recovering the various components of a pallet which can be assembled.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Therefore, the technical problem underlying the present invention lies in providing apparatus for assembling and disassembling modular pallets in an entirely automated manner, therefore without the intervention of any operator.

[0011] Such problem is overcome by an apparatus provided with a compact structure both capable of automatically assembling and disassembling modular pallets.

[0012] Therefore, a main object is a monobloc apparatus using simple and functional components designed so as to interact for carrying out coordinated functions for moving pieces of a pallet to be assembled and disassembled.

[0013] A second object is an apparatus which allows to disassemble the pallet into separate elements for reuse or sorted disposal in case of different worn out materials.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES [0014] Further characteristics and advantages of the apparatus according to the present invention will be more apparent from the non-limiting description below, with reference to the following figures, wherein:

- figure 1 shows an axonometric view - from a first side - an apparatus for assembling and disassembling a modular pallet according to the present invention;

- figure 2 shows an axonometric view - from a second side - of the apparatus of figure 1 ;

- figure 3 shows an axonometric view - from a first end - of the apparatus of the invention with an enlarged detail;

- figure 4 shows an axonometric view of figure 2 with an enlarged detail;

- figure 5 shows an axonometric view of an automated arm of the apparatus of the invention, with an enlarged detail;

- figure 6 shows an axonometric view of figure 1 simplified, with an enlarged detail of the interior of the apparatus;

- figure 7 shows a top plan view of the apparatus of the invention with the central portion open;

- figure 8A shows the axonometric view of figure 3 with an enlarged detail, during a first step for assembling a modular pallet;

- figure 8B shows a front view of the detail of figure 8A in a second step for assembling a modular pallet;

- figure 8C shows a front view of the detail of figure 8A in third step for assembling a modular pallet;

- figure 9 shows the axonometric view of the apparatus of figure 1 simplified, with an enlarged detail of a fourth step for assembling a modular pallet;

- figure 10A shows the axonometric view of the apparatus of figure 1 from a different angle, during a fifth step for assembling a modular pallet;

- figure 10B shows an axonometric view of the apparatus of figure 10A during a sixth step for assembling a modular pallet;

- figure 1 1 shows a plan view of figure 7 during a seventh step for assembling a modular pallet;

- figure 12A shows the axonometric view of figure 2 with an enlarged detail, during an eighth step for assembling a modular pallet;

- figure 12B shows the view of figure 2 with an enlarged detail, during a ninth step for assembling a modular pallet; - figure 13A shows the axonometric view of figure 1 partially open and with an enlarged detail, during a tenth step for assembling a modular pallet;

- figure 13B shows the axonometric view of figure 1 partially open and with an enlarged detail, during an eleventh step for assembling a modular pallet;

- figure 13C shows the axonometric view of figure 1 partially open and with an enlarged detail, during a twelfth step for assembling a modular pallet;

- figure 14 shows an axonometric view of figure 1 , during a last step for assembling a modular pallet.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] With reference to figures 1 and 2, the apparatus according to the present invention is a monobloc indicated in its entirety with reference numeral 1 . Generally, such apparatus 1 comprises:

- a single platform 2 which extends in a longitudinal direction X-X from a first to a second end of a deck;

- conveyor means 3 which extend along said direction of the platform;

- a first unit 4 positioned on said first end to store and release elements F for supporting a modular pallet P;

- a second unit 5 positioned at a first side of said platform to store elements S for resting said pallet;

- a third assembling unit 7 arranged between said first and second end of said platform 2

- an automated arm 8 comprising first means 9 for gripping said panels or strips and means 1 1 for reversibly applying blocking elements on said support elements to block said panels or strips.

[0016] According to a specific embodiment, the apparatus comprises a fourth unit 6 positioned at a second side of said platform opposite to the first side to store and release elements B for blocking said panels or strips of said pallet. In this case, the automated arm 8 will also comprise second means 10 for gripping said blocking elements.

[0017] The platform 2 advantageously allows to provide an apparatus which extends as a monobloc for all the steps for assembling and disassembling a modular pallet P avoiding complex and separate production lines like those of the prior art. In particular, the platform may consist of a deck 20 which extends longitudinally along said axis X-X from a first end 21 to a second end 22 and with two parallel first 24 and second 25 long sides. The deck is provided with conventional feet 23 for supporting and adjusting on a ground. [0018] It should be observed that in the following description, the expressions above, below, upper, lower, high, low, horizontal, vertical and the like refer to the apparatus and its components when in use position, that is resting on the ground or floor for example inside a corporate facility.

[0019] Conveyor means 3 are mounted on the platform so as to move the pieces that form the pallet from said first end 21 to said second end 22 and vice versa. Preferably, these means consist of at least one conveyor belt 30 driven by conventional electric motors 31 ; more preferably, there are three parallel conveyor belts for supporting and conveying an equal number of elements F for supporting a modular pallet, as explained below, and relative brushless motors.

[0020] The first unit 4 for storing elements F for supporting the pallet is mounted at said first end 21 of the platform 2 (figure 3). Preferably, this unit comprises a plurality of guides 40 adapted to contain - stacked - said support elements F. In particular, said guides are parallel and formed by columns 40 which delimit a plurality of stacking tracks 41 corresponding to said conveyor belts 30, that is tracks which extend height-wise above the belts and length-wise along the belts.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment, the storage unit 4 comprises means 12 for separating support elements F from the stacking of the tracks 41 (figure 3). Preferably, these separation means comprise first 12A and second 12B brackets which cooperate to separate the elements on the conveyor belts 30. The first brackets 12A are at a distance from the conveyor belts such not to interfere with the support elements F when placed on said belts, and they are positioned on a guide 42 that is slidable horizontally and transversely, and preferably mounted on a first side 43 of each belt 30. The second brackets 12B are mounted on a guide 44 preferably positioned on a second side 45 of each belt 30, opposite to the first 43 and slidable horizontally and transversely to the axis X-X. Furthermore, they are at a distance from the conveyor belts 30 greater than that of the first brackets 12A and however such to be inserted into the space between one profile and the other for connecting the single support elements F aligned.

[0022] The second unit 5 for storing elements S for resting the modular pallet (figure 1 ) comprises a frame 50 for containing a plurality of said stacked elements S. The frame 50 may for example be formed by several edges 51 which delimit an area for stacking the elements S, leaving one side open for loading a conventional pallet for supporting said elements. Preferably, such area is surrounded by an enclosure 52 (figure 2) with an opening at said open side for loading the pallet with the stacked elements. Furthermore, the second unit 5 is positioned near the first 24 long side of said platform 2.

[0023] The third assembling unit 7 is arranged in line between the aforementioned first 21 and second 22 ends of the platform 2 (figure 1 ). Preferably, the third unit is delimited by a framework 70 for support with panels 71 provided with lower openings for the conveyor belts with the support elements F to pass through along the axis X-X. A window 72 is then obtained on the panel facing towards the first side 24 along the platform 2 so as to allow the loading - therein - of the elements S for resting the modular pallet P. Furthermore, even above the framework is at least partially open so as to allow, as explained below, to move the automated arm 8 in the various processing positions.

[0024] On the bottom of the assembling unit 7 there are carried out the operations for assembling the modular pallet P thanks to the conveying of the support elements F from the first unit 4 using the conveyor belts 30, of the blocking means B from the fourth unit 6 through a slide 61 , when present, and from the operations of the automated arm 8 to displace resting elements S from the second unit 5 and for fixing the blocking elements, as explained below.

[0025] The automated arm 8 which allows the operations mentioned above comprises a first portion 80 mounted - at the upper part - on said framework 70 for supporting the third unit 7, and transversely with respect to said axis X-X (figure 1 ). The first portion 80 is then provided with a rail (not indicated in the figures) with motor-driven movement means for sliding a second portion 81 along said first portion. The movement means are entirely conventional and will not be described in detail herein. In any case, as better shown in figure 5, the second portion 81 of the arm 8 is connected to the first portion 80 by means of a slidable carriage 82 so as to allow the vertical displacement of the second portion with respect to the first. Preferably, the second portion 81 comprises a first straight and vertical section 83 with a first vacant end 84 and a second end 85 connected as a single piece with a second straight and horizontal section 86 so that the second portion 81 forms a sort of inverted T shape.

[0026] In particular, the second portion 81 carries first means 9 for gripping the resting elements S mounted on a first side facing the opposite direction with respect to the platform 2, while means 1 1 for applying the blocking elements B are mounted on a second side facing towards the platform (figure 1 ). When the fourth unit 6 is present with the blocking elements B, said second side also carries second means 10 for gripping said blocking elements. [0027] Preferably, the first means 9 for gripping the resting elements S consist of a plurality of vacuum suction cups (figure 5), more preferably four, carried by brackets 90 which allow them to be spaced apart on a plane sufficiently large to ensure a correct and balanced gripping. Furthermore, the brackets 90 protrude from a first side 86A of the second section 86 of the second portion 81 of the arm 8, said first side facing towards the external of the apparatus 1 that is towards the second unit 5 for storing the resting elements S.

[0028] According to an embodiment, the apparatus comprises the aforementioned fourth unit 6 for storing elements B for blocking said elements S for resting said pallet. This unit is mounted on the platform from the second long side 25 thereof and it comprises a plurality of loaders 60 for said stacked blocking elements (figure 4). The loaders for example consist of vertical guides within which said elements are stacked. The loaders are at least open - at the upper part - so as to allow the loading of the elements, while - at the lower part - they are open so as to be arranged facing a slide 61 which slides transversely with respect to said longitudinal axis X-X of the platform so as to receive - by dropping - said elements B and carry them in the third 7 assembling unit, as explained below. Furthermore, the slide 61 comprises a plurality of centring elements 62 positioned at the lower openings of said loaders to receive each blocking element B.

[0029] According to a particularly advantageous embodiment, said centring elements 62 comprise two first 63 and second 64 semi-circular walls, complementary and separated by two diametrically opposite openings 65. In particular, these walls each have an edge 66 inclined with opposite direction.

[0030] The dropping of the blocking elements B is allowed by a dual fork mechanism (figure 4). As a matter of fact, this mechanism comprises a bar 14 which can be displaced along an axis Y-Y parallel to the axis X-X in one direction and in the opposite direction, on which there is mounted a pair of first 15 and second 16 forks in proximity of each lower end of a loader 60. The first 15 and second 16 forks are positioned on two different planes with respect to the loader 60 so as to operate sequentially: the first 15 is positioned lower 60 and it frees the latter blocking element B, while the second 16 is positioned higher and retains the rest of the stack of the elements, as explained in detail hereinafter.

[0031] Furthermore, it should be observed that the position of the centring means 62, and - as a result - the release position on the slide 61 , is calculated so that the elements B are already aligned, transversely with respect to the axis X-X, with the support elements F for an easy movement and application, as described hereinafter. [0032] In order to avoid potential accidents, the lower portion of the loaders 60, where the slide 61 operates coordinated with the dual fork mechanism, is protected by a removable guard 67, shown in figure 2.

[0033] When the second means 10 for gripping the blocking elements B of the arm 8 are present, they preferably consist of grippers (figure 5) which capture these elements from the aforementioned slide 61 to release them subsequently in pre-established positions, as explained below. Alternatively, there may be used a vacuum system which suctions and retains the blocking elements to convey and release them in the correct actuation position. These means are mounted on a second side 86B of the second section 86 of the second portion 81 of the arm 8, opposite to the first side 86A.

[0034] The means 11 for applying the blocking elements B (figure 5) are mounted beside the aforementioned second gripping means 10, when present, otherwise they replace them; these application means are preferably two parallel pivots 1 1 A arranged downwards and mounted on a rotary head 11 B.

[0035] The second end 22 of the platform 2 is then provided with a portion of the aforementioned conveyor means 3 exiting from the fourth assembling unit 7 on which there is a pallet P which can be assembled mounted and ready to be collected and used or in turn packaged for shipping (figure 1 ).

[0036] The automated management of the apparatus of the invention is obtained through a command and control unit 13 mounted on board, as shown in figures 1 and 2, or remote. This unit may be a computer such as a conventional PC in which there are uploaded programmes for managing the functions of the devices or means of the apparatus. Furthermore, the unit is connected with a plurality of sensors and motors for driving said devices so as to constantly detect signals representing the status of the apparatus and send an equal number of command signals for carrying out all required activities.

[0037] Preferably, a sensor (not shown) will be mounted on the lower portion of the columns 40 for separating the tracks 41 of the first unit 4 for stacking the support elements F so as to detect the presence of elements, in particular the presence of a last or second- last element so as to send a signal to the command and control unit 13. Similar sensors may be provided for at the lower opening of the loaders 60 for the blocking elements B and at the bottom of the frame 50 for containing the resting elements S of the pallet.

[0038] Different types of sensors can then be mounted to detect the presence of the support elements F on the conveyor belts. Other sensors, for example an encoder, may cooperate with the electric motors, preferably of the brushless type, so as to detect the displacement and exact positioning for example of the arm 8 so as to be in pre- established positions for picking up the resting elements S or the blocking elements B.

[0039] The vacuum systems comprise conventional suction pumps (not shown), still controlled by the unit 13 both for activating the suction when there arises the need pick up the elements and for deactivating when there arises the need to release them.

[0040] End-of-stroke elements 17 (figure 6) may further be provided for still on the bottom of the third unit 7 so as to correctly position the support elements F ready to receive the blocking elements S and possibly the blocking elements B. Preferably, these end-of- stroke elements are brackets which can be moved transversely to the axis X-X to intercept or free the advancement of the support elements F from the first unit 4 through the conveyor belts 30.

[0041] The apparatus 1 may also be provided with centring elements 18 (figures 6 and 7) which have the function of centring the resting elements S released on the support elements F in the third assembling unit 7. Preferably, said centring elements consist of four angular elements arranged at the four corners of the bottom of the fourth unit and they are controlled pneumatically.

[0042] With reference to figures 8-14, now, described below is the operation of the apparatus 1 according to the present invention.

[0043] First and foremost, the first 4, second 5 and possibly fourth 6 units are loaded with, respectively, the support elements F, the resting elements S and the blocking elements B.

[0044] Preferably, the support elements F (figures 6 and 9) consist of support feet F1 which also act as partitioning elements between one pallet and the other to create a space which can be engaged by arms or forks of forklifts or similar conventional machines for moving pallets. They preferably are parallelepiped, truncated cone or more preferably truncated pyramid-shaped, solid or preferably hollow, with rectangular base. In any case, they are provided with a threaded seat F2 for the reversible engagement with the aforementioned blocking elements B of the resting elements S. In addition, these feet may be connected to each other by straight profiles F3 so as to form stable and robust supports with a plurality of aligned feet.

[0045] The blocking elements B, when present in the respective unit (figure 12A), are preferably a sort of plug or cylindrical bushing, which is internally hollow, and with a threaded lateral surface B1. The head B2 is flanged while a septum B3 passes through the diameter of the cavity. Otherwise, these elements (not shown) are already pre- assembled on the resting elements S with a portion fixed thereto at the holes for engaging with the supports F, to which there is coupled a rotating ring nut for locking and unlocking the engagement with the supports through the action of the aforementioned application means 1 1 . In this specific case, even the aforementioned threaded seat of the support elements is - as a result - modified for engagement with said ring nut.

[0046] The resting elements S may be flat panels provided with through holes for the lateral wall of the blocking elements B for engagement with the threaded seat of the support elements F, or resting elements with the aforementioned pre-assembled blocking elements. Alternatively, there may be provided for drilled strips to be blocked on said support elements F, still through said blocking elements B, or still blocking elements with the aforementioned blocking elements pre-assembled.

[0047] The actuation of the apparatus 1 of the invention starts with the unlocking of a first series of support elements S from the stacking in the tracks 41 of the first unit 4. First and foremost, the first brackets 12A of the partitioning means 12 support respective stacks of support elements F (figure 8A). In this position, the second brackets 12B are moved transversely to the conveyor belts 30 (figure 8B) so as to be inserted into the space defined by the latter and the second-last profile F3 (shown in figure 8A) for connection between the support feet F. Now, the first bracket 12A is displaced transversely dropping the last profile F3 onto the conveyor belt 30, while the second bracket supports the rest of the stack (figure 8C). Subsequently, the first bracket 12A is repositioned below the stack of feet F and the second bracket 12B is retracted to drop the stack on the first bracket 12A, returning to the initial position. The second bracket 12B may therefore be once again positioned in the space between one profile F3 and the other to re-start a new release cycle of the support elements F once the underlying conveyor belt has been released.

[0048] Once dropped on the corresponding conveyor belts 30, the support elements F are conveyed to the third unit 7. At this point, there are activated the end-of-stroke elements 17 so as to be displaced transversely with respect to the axis X-X for blocking the advancement of the support elements F in the correct position for mounting the pallet in said unit (figure 9).

[0049] Now, the automated arm 8 is lowered on the first panel S of the stack in the second unit 5 so as to activate the gripping suction cups 9. The arm may therefore be raised by the stacking sliding vertically thanks to the slidable carriage 82 (figure 10A) and be displaced within the third unit 7 sliding along the first portion 80 thereof thanks to the aforementioned rail (not indicated). In this manner, the panel S is carried above the support elements F and it is subsequently lowered so as to be placed thereon (figure 10B). The release by the suction cups 9 occurs by deactivating the pump under vacuum. [0050] The correct positioning of the panel S above the supports F is guaranteed by the aforementioned centring elements 18 which move from the corners of the bottom of the third unit 7 towards the centre in a coordinated manner to engage the respective corners of the panel and therefore centre it with respect to the supports (figure 1 1 ). In particular, the system is calibrated so that the holes on the panels are made to coincide with the threaded seats F2, or differently processed in case of engagement with the aforementioned ring nut, of the support elements F.

[0051] In the meantime, if provided for, several blocking elements B are released by the respective loaders 60 of the fourth unit 6. The release occurs through a forward-backward reciprocating movement of the bar 14 carrying the two first 15 and second 16 forks of the controlled dropping mechanism, described above. As a matter of fact, when the first fork

15 and that is the lowest fork engages - from the bottom - the flange B2 of the lowest element, the entire stack is supported without releasing elements from the slide 61 (figure 4). Hereinafter, with a horizontal movement along the axis Y-Y, the first fork 15 is retracted releasing the dropping of the lowest element, while - at the same time - the second fork

16 positioned higher is displaced, with a movement in the opposite direction with respect to that of the first fork, being engaged below the flange B2 of the subsequent element of the stack blocking the dropping thereof (figure 12A). In this situation, the bar 14 moves towards the internal of the third unit 7. A subsequent reverse movement of the bar 14 repositions the first fork 15 below the flange B2 of said subsequent element to begin a new release cycle (figure 12B). The movements described above occur at the same time below each of the loaders 60, therefore releasing - on the slide 60 - multiple blocking elements B, preferably three, as shown in the drawings.

[0052] It should be observed that each blocking element B drops at a centring element 62 so that the internal cavity of the blocking element receives said centring element. During the descent, the septum B3 of the blocking element will abut against the inclined edges 66 of the centring element 62, which will guide the septum causing it to engage with the diametrically opposite openings 65. In this manner, the blocking element B will automatically be in the correct position for the subsequent step for picking and positioning on the panel S. [0053] Now, the arm may be further displaced transversely to the axis X-X towards the fourth unit 6 so as to position the means 10 for gripping the blocking elements B above the slide 61 where the blocking elements B are already positioned. As a matter of fact, it should be observed that the blocking elements are released on the slide in a transversal position with respect to the axis X-X so that each of them is aligned with a seat of a support element F. Likewise, the gripping means 10 are mounted on the arm 8 so as to be in the same position. Therefore, the lowering of the arm allows the gripping means to be in the correct position to capture the blocking elements. Basically, the two jaws of the gripper are each inserted into one of the two spaces defined by the septum B3 of the blocking element so as to be subsequently clamped on the latter. Subsequently, the arm may be raised and displaced towards the second unit 5 to be positioned so that said blocking elements B are each above a corresponding hole of the resting panel S, coinciding with the underlying seat of the support feet S of the pallet P (figure 13A).

[0054] A descent of the arm and release of the gripping means allows to drop said blocking elements B in each hole of the resting element S (figure 13B). At this point, the arm is displaced on a horizontal plane to position the application means 1 1 above the blocking elements, lowering to allow the descent thereof engaged and fixed in the seat of the support elements F with the panel S interposed, through the rotary movement of the two pins (figure 13C).

[0055] The aforementioned operations for picking up and fixing the blocking elements B are carried out for all the positions of the panel in which there are holes for fixing to the underlying support elements F thanks to a movement of the arm on the horizontal plane, mapped following a programme which establishes the exact coordinates and sends them to the motors for driving the arm.

[0056] Alternatively, should the fourth unit 6 with the blocking elements B which are stored and to be picked up with the gripping means 10 not be present or not be loaded with said elements, the panel S may be provided in the second unit 5 thereof with the aforementioned specific blocking elements already applied. In this case, the apparatus of the invention would be activated only to actuate the application means 11 described above, not providing for gripping means 10 at all or not actuating them.

[0057] In this manner, the cycle for assembling a modular pallet P is completed and the arm can be raised and subsequently be positioned once again at the second unit 5 to pick up a new panel and start a further assembling cycle (figure 14). [0058] In the meantime, the pallet P thus composed is conveyed from the third assembling unit 7 to the second end 22 of the platform 2 so as to release said unit for receiving new support elements F and unload the assembled pallet from the apparatus 1 (figure 14).

[0059] Advantageously, the apparatus 1 of the present invention may also function to disassemble the modular pallets described above and therefore be able to replace any worn out elements while maintaining and recovering the others so as to avoid the destruction of the entire pallet or the shipment thereof in centres specialised in treating second-hand pallets.

[0060] In particular, the steps described above are substantially reverse. As a matter of fact, a pallet P to be disassembled is placed on the conveyor belts 30 of the second end 22 of the platform 2. The belts convey it in the third unit 7 where the arm 8 is carried in a position such to be engage the application means 1 1 with the blocking elements B. The application means 1 1 are therefore activated in the reverse direction with respect to what is described above to release the engagement with the seats of the support elements F. Preferably, such release occurs by rotating in the anticlockwise direction, that is by unscrewing the blocking elements from the support elements.

[0061] Subsequently, the arm is displaced to allow the intervention of the gripping means 10 on said blocking elements B, should there be provided for the sorting of said locking elements.

[0062] At this point, the arm 8 is raised carrying the gripping means 10 above the third unit 7 and from here it moves horizontally towards the fourth unit 6 positioning said means each above a loader 60. Now, the gripping means 10 can be deactivated to release the blocking elements B in said loaders.

[0063] The arm 8 may therefore return into the third unit 7 and activate the gripping means 9 of the panels S and carry them to the second unit 5.

[0064] In the meantime, the support elements F may be conveyed by the conveyor belts 30 outside the third unit 7 in the first unit 4 where they are picked up and moved away individually using appropriate means or manually.

[0065] A further object of the present invention is a method for assembling/disassembling a modular pallet. The method comprises the steps of:

- automatically releasing - from a plurality of stacks - support elements (F) of said single element pallet;

- automatically moving said single support elements to carry them to an area for assembling the pallet (P); - automatically moving a resting element (S) of said pallet from a storage area in said assembling area to place it on said support elements (F);

- optionally, automatically picking up - from a storage area - elements (B) for blocking said support elements (F) and releasing them in the operative seats;

- automatically fixing blocking elements (B) in said support elements (F) therefore blocking the resting elements (S) in the operative position;

- automatically moving the pallet obtained with the previous steps in an area for collecting assembled pallets.

[0066] Preferably, all the previous steps are obtained using the apparatus described above.

[0067] Disassembly occurs by carrying out the aforementioned steps inversely.

[0068] In the light of the above, it is clear that the drawbacks of the prior art have been overcome and the significant advantages have been achieved.

[0069] First and foremost, the limits of the apparatus, or better of the lines for producing wooden, plastic or cardboard pallets of the non-modular type, have been overcome. As a matter of fact, the solution of the present invention operates with a pallet of the modular type allowing the major advantage of the possibility of recycling components of the pallet which can still be used and instead dispose of the damaged ones which cannot be used anymore. All this occurs using a single compact structure without the need for multiple complex and cumbersome assembly lines.

[0070] Secondly, there has been provided an apparatus which allows the automatic assembly of the pallets which can be assembled, not available up to date given that it is entirely caried out manually by designated staff.

[0071] In particular, advantageously, the assembly operations are carried out in a single platform, which is compact and organised to coordinate various operations in a highly efficient and productive manner with minimum overall dimensions.

[0072] Human beings basically do not intervene given that the only operations that can be carried out manually would be those of loading elements which form the pallets in the respective units. Even these operations could be carried out in an at least semiautomatically with machines driven by operators which deposit a plurality of elements in the units. Therefore, safety is increased significantly increased with respect to the known production lines.

[0073] Furthermore, advantageously, the movement of the individual pieces is entirely automated and coordinated thanks to specific sensors which send signals to a command and control unit so that the operations of the automated arm are synchronised with the advancement ones of the support elements F and of the blocking elements B.

[0074] Then, thanks to the variant which envisages the blocking elements already preinstalled on panels, the assembly operation is even quicker. [0075] It should be observed that a platform like the one of the present invention may be installed in all companies which need to ship materials to be packaged and transported in pallets. As a matter of fact, in this manner, they do not have to send loose materials to logistic and forwarding companies, with clear reduction of the total production costs [0076] In addition, the platform not occupying particular overall dimensions, may be installed in various sites without the need for specific logistics solutions.

[0077] Then, the possibility of disassembling the pallets allows to recover - on site - elements of the pallet which can be reutilised, while the used or damaged ones can be easily disposed of avoiding expensive collections and shipments.

[0078] The apparatus of the present invention may be subjected - by a person skilled in the art - to numerous modifications and variants without departing from the scope of protection defined by the attached claims.

Claims

CLAIMS Apparatus (1 ) for assembling and disassembling a modular pallet, comprising:

- a single platform

(2) extending in a longitudinal direction (X-X) from a first (21 ) to a second (22) end;

- transporting means

(3) extending along said direction of the platform;

- a first unit

(4) positioned at said first end to store and release elements (F) for supporting a modular pallet (P);

- a second unit

(5) positioned at a first side (24) of said platform to stock holding elements (S) of said pallet;

- a third assembling unit (7) positioned between said first (21 ) and second (22) ends of said platform;

- an automatic arm (8) comprising first catching means (9) for said holding elements (S) and reversable means (1 1 ) for blocking said blocking elements onto said supporting elements (F) for blocking said holding elements (S). Apparatus (1 ) according to claim 1 , wherein said transporting means (3) comprises at least one transporting belt (30) extending from said first (21 ) to said second (22) ends of the platform (2). Apparatus (1 ) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said first storing unit (4) comprises a plurality of stacking lanes (41 ) to orderly contain a plurality of lanes of said supporting elements (F). Apparatus (1 ) according to claim 3, wherein said plurality of lanes (41 ) is defined by a plurality of columns (40), the base of said columns comprising means (12) for separating said supporting elements (F) stacked onto said transporting means (30). Apparatus (1 ) according to claim 4, wherein said supporting means (12) comprises at least one stirrup (12A) mounted onto a guide (42) horizontally sliding to drop down said supporting elements (F) onto said transporting means (3) at a distance so that not to interfere when the supporting elements stay on said supporting means, and at least a second stirrup (12B) mounted onto a guide (44) horizontally movable to insert into a space between one supporting element and another, and positioned at a distance from the transporting means (3) higher than the first stirrup. Apparatus (1 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a fourth unit

(6) positioned at a second side (25) of said platform opposite to the first side to stock and release blocking elements (B) of said holding elements of the pallet, and said automatic arm (8) comprises second catching means (10) for said blocking elements (B).

7. Apparatus (1 ) according to claim 6, wherein said fourth storage unit (6) comprises a plurality of stacking loaders (60) of said blocking elements (B), which loaders have a loading superior end and a lower end to discharge under gravity, the last one being connected to a collecting slide (61 ) sliding transversally to the longitudinal direction (X-X) and being provided with centring means (62) of said blocking means (B).

8. Apparatus (1 ) according to claim 7, wherein said centring means (62) comprises two semi-circular walls first (63) second (64), which walls are complementary, separated by two diametrically opposed apertures (65) and each provided with an edge (66) inclined with opposite versus.

9. Apparatus (1 ) according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein said fourth unit (6) comprises a bar (14) movable along an axis (Y-Y) parallel to the longitudinal direction (X-X) in a direction and in its opposite direction, a couple of forks first (15) and second (16) being mounted onto said bar close to each lower end of a loader (60) for said blocking elements (B), the forks being positioned the first (15) lower with respect to the loader (60) to release the last blocking element (B), while the second (16) being positioned higher with respect to the loader (60) to hold the remain of the stack of the blocking elements.

10. Apparatus (1 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein said automatic arm (8) consists in a first portion (80) fixed and mounted onto said third unit (7) transversally with respect to said longitudinal direction (X-X), a second sliding portion (81 ) connected to said first portion by means of a truck (82) to allow the vertical motion of said second portion with respect to said first portion, said second portion comprising a first rectilinear and vertical part (83) having a first free end (84) and a second end (85) connected in one piece with a second rectilinear and horizontal part (86) to form a reversed T.

11. Apparatus (1 ) according to claim 10, wherein said catching means (9) for said holding elements (S) are mounted onto said second part (86) of the second portion (81 ) of the arm (8), at its edge opposite with respect to the edge facing the third unit (7), said catching means (10) and said blocking means (1 1 ) of the blocking elements (B) are mounted onto the side towards the third unit (7).

12. Apparatus (1 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein said catching means (9) of said holding elements (S) comprises vacuum-suction cup, said catching means (10) of said blocking elements (B) comprises clamps and said blocking means (11 ) of said blocking elements comprises two parallel rotating pins.

13. Apparatus (1 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising stopping means (17) onto the bottom of the third unit (7) to correctly position the supporting elements (F) ready to receive the holding elements (S) and the blocking elements (B).

14. Apparatus (1 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising centring means (18) to centre the holding elements (S) released onto the supporting elements (F) within the assembling third unit (7).

15. Method for assembling a modular pallet (P), comprising the steps of:

- automatically releasing single elements from a plurality of stacking of supporting elements (F) of said pallet;

- automatically moving said single supporting elements to carry them in an assembling zone of the pallet (P);

- automatically moving a holding element (S) of said pallet from a storage zone into said assembling zone to release it onto said supporting elements (F);

- optionally, automatically picking up from a storage zone blocking elements (B) of said holding elements (S) and releasing them into operative sits;

- automatically fixing said blocking elements (B) into said supporting elements (F) so blocking the holding elements (S) in an operative position;

- automatically moving the pallet obtained with the preceding steps in a collecting zone of assembled pallet.

16. Method for disassembling a modular pallet, comprising the same steps according to claim 15 but carried out in a reversed manner.