BOXING METHOD AND DEVICE INTENDED TO SEQUENTIALLY BOX BATCHES OF PRODUCTS INSIDE PACKAGING RECEPTACLES

Abstract

A method and device for sequentially batch boxing products inside packaging receptacles. The method includes conveying a continuous supply flow of aligned products along a first supply line extending in a longitudinal direction and; sending m successions of n products in m rows positioned along m separate positioning sub-lines by m movements in transverse directions without a lag with respect to the continuous supply flow; collecting and assembling in the longitudinal direction the n products of each row so as to form a first batch of m×n products; sequentially boxing the m rows of n products forming the first batch inside a first packaging receptacle. The sending step intended to form a first row of a second batch starts during the collecting phase of one of the rows of n products constituting the first batch and along a separate buffer positioning sub-line adjacent to the m positioning sub-lines.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to the technical field of packaging. More particularly, the invention relates to the field of sequentially boxing batches of identical or similar products inside packaging containers (also referred to herein as receptacles).

The invention applies particularly but not exclusively to fresh milk products, cheese products, compotes, as well as any other product of various types or destinations which can be considered as identical or similar for grouping into batches.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

For the production of such batches of products, the content to be packaged, and the primary packaging (cups and caps) possibly arranged on trays, need to be made or available. Then the products themselves are created, meaning the primary packaging is filled with the desired content then closed with the caps. Next, the batches of products are formed by grouping and possibly layering these products. Lastly, these batches of products are arranged in packaging containers of cardboard or similar material which serves as packaging and for their transport to distribution markets.

Document FR-A-2 697 512 is known from the prior art. It describes a method for boxing batches consisting of m rows of n products inside packaging containers, consisting of:

• • conveying a continuous flow of products to a grouping table on which are arranged as many lanes as there are rows of products in a batch;
  • monitoring the lanes in order to identify when sufficient products have collected per lane on the grouping table to form a batch;
  • stopping the continuous flow of supplied products and progressively retracting the grouping table in a manner that forms the batch of products.

Such a method has several disadvantages. In particular, the production rate is necessarily limited because the continuous supply flow must be stopped when the number of products collected on the grouping table constitutes a batch. This implies systematic stop periods which ultimately result in a significantly slowed production rate. In addition, the redirection of products from the continuous supply flow in order to distribute them into each of the lanes of the grouping table slows the advance of these products towards the grouping table and therefore also results in a slower rate.

Also known from the prior art are methods for boxing batches of m rows of n products inside packaging containers, consisting of:

• • conveying, along a first supply line extending in a longitudinal direction, a continuous supply flow of aligned products;
  • forming an collection of products in m rows respectively positioned along m separate positioning sub-lines, arranged so as to be adjacent on the first supply line;
  • conveying, in the longitudinal direction, n products of each row along m positioning sub-lines so as to form a first batch of m×n products; and
  • sequentially boxing said m rows of n products constituting the first batch inside a first packaging container.

This other implementation also has disadvantages, however. The slowing due to sending the products along m positioning sub-lines is not resolved. Also, even if the conveying of a second series of n products along m positioning sub-lines can be initiated before the end of the operation of sequentially boxing the first batch in packaging containers, the fact remains that a wait phase must be observed in order to prevent any collision between the products forming the first batch and the products forming the second batch. In addition, the collection of products before the batches are formed requires additional space.

The following documents are also known from the prior art: WO-A1-2007/112415, DE-A1-12 14 353, EP-A1-0 300 860, EP-A1-1 992 579, GB-A-2 050 981 and EP-A1-0 533 453. However, as with the solutions presented above, the devices described in these documents offer limited speeds.

OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION (/DISCLOSURE)

In this context, the aim of the present invention is to propose a device and method for packaging that eliminates at least one of the above limitations.

For this purpose, in a first aspect, the invention relates to a boxing method intended, from a continuous supply flow of similar products, for sequentially boxing batches of products inside packaging containers, the batches being formed of m rows of n products each, m and n being integers greater than or equal to 1, the boxing method comprising a succession of steps consisting of:

• • conveying a continuous supply flow of aligned products along a first supply line extending in a longitudinal direction; and
  • sending, by m movements in transverse directions with no lag relative to the continuous supply flow, m successions of n products in m rows respectively positioned along m distinct positioning sub-lines arranged to be adjacent in the first supply line;
  • collecting and assembling in the longitudinal direction the n products of each row along m positioning sub-lines so as to form a first batch of m×n products;
  • sequentially boxing said m rows of n products constituting the first batch, inside a first packaging container.

The boxing method of the invention consists of initiating the step of sending a first succession of n products intended to form a first row of a second batch, during the phase of collecting one of the rows of n products constituting the first batch, this first succession of n products intended to form a first row of a second batch being sent in a transverse movement with no lag relative to the continuous supply flow along a separate buffer positioning sub-line adjacent to the m positioning sub-lines on which the m rows of n products constituting the first batch have been formed, so as to allow the collection and assembly of products constituting the first batch without interrupting or slowing the continuous supply flow of products; and initiating the step of boxing the first batch with no substantial delay after the collection and assembly of the first batch, in a manner that allows the boxing to occur without interrupting or slowing the continuous supply flow.

The use of a buffer positioning sub-line that is distinct from the positioning sub-lines in which the products of a first batch are collected, allows continuing the directing, collection, and assembly of products coming from the continuous supply flow even when the products forming the first batch currently being boxed remains in place for a period of time in the corresponding positioning sub-lines. It is thus possible to maintain the continuous supply flow of products without interruption, and therefore to maintain a high speed.

In one embodiment, the step of sending m successions of n products consists of positioning the m rows of n products along m positioning sub-lines so that the m rows of n products are spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction by a predetermined spacing distance. This prevents the products from colliding, which could cause unanticipated product movements or falls which could lead to difficulties during later steps in the boxing method, possibly resulting in having to halt the product supply flow.

Under these circumstances, in a first embodiment, positioning rails of a thickness corresponding to the spacing distance are arranged to ensure the guiding, transverse positioning, and maintaining in position of m successions of n products along the m positioning sub-lines. Similarly to above, the presence of positioning rails decreases the risk of products being improperly positioned in the positioning sub-lines and therefore facilitates the step of collecting, assembling, and boxing batches of products in packaging containers.

More particularly, in one embodiment the boxing step is performed by boxing means comprising m rows of n gripper heads, the m rows of n gripper heads drawing closer to one another in the transverse direction during the step of boxing the m rows of n products inside a packaging container. The use of gripper heads able to move relative to one another in the transverse direction provides a fast, easy, and secure manner for the transverse grouping of products placed in separate positioning sub-lines in preparation for boxing them in packaging containers.

Under these circumstances, in a second embodiment, the boxing method comprises a grouping step occurring after the step of collecting m rows of n products and consisting of grouping the m rows of n products in the transverse direction so that these m rows are adjacent to one another in this transverse direction. As above, performing this intermediate grouping step allows the transverse grouping of products placed in separate positioning sub-lines without requiring additional technology cooperating with the boxing means to move the gripper heads.

In this case, in one embodiment, the grouping step is performed by means of a scraper arm positioned between the buffer positioning sub-line and the positioning sub-line adjacent to this buffer positioning sub-line, the scraper arm moving in the transverse direction to group the m rows of n products transversely so that these m rows are adjacent to one another in this transverse direction. Such a scraper arm groups the m rows of n products transversely, in an easy, rapid, and secure manner, without interfering with the arrival of products in the buffer positioning sub-line.

In a first variant, the step of collecting and assembling n products in each row is achieved by means of a barrier wall which stops the advancement of n products in the m positioning sub-lines. This is a simple and effective technical solution for grouping products in each positioning sub-line.

In a second variant, the step of collecting and assembling n products in each row is achieved by means of a barrier wall which slows the advancement of the n products along the m positioning sub-lines without stopping them. This other solution can be useful for keeping products in motion before they are boxed in packaging containers, thus spreading out the production line.

In one embodiment, the packaging containers are shaped and then conveyed along a second supply line positioned near the positioning sub-lines and extending in a substantially longitudinal direction. The shaping of the packaging containers is thus performed near the boxing station, which facilitates feeding them in without imposing significant space constraints.

In this case, the packaging containers are moved in a direction opposite the direction of motion of the m rows of n products collected in the m positioning sub-lines. This assures optimal positioning of the product supply stream relative to the packaging container supply stream and thus offers the possibility of integrating the boxing line into a larger production line which integrates for example the production of product.

In one embodiment, the packaging containers are shaped by folding and gluing a blank upstream of the second supply line.

In a second aspect, the invention relates to a boxing device intended for carrying out a method for sequentially boxing batches of products inside packaging containers according to the invention, the batches being formed of m rows of n products each, m and n being integers greater than or equal to 1, the boxing device comprising:

• • a first supply line extending in a longitudinal direction;
  • transport means able to convey a continuous supply flow of aligned products along the first supply line;
  • offset means able to send, by m movements in transverse directions with no lag relative to the continuous supply flow, m successions of n products in m rows respectively positioned along m distinct positioning sub-lines arranged in an adjacent manner in the first supply line;
  • collection means able to collect and assemble, in the longitudinal direction, the n products of each row along its positioning sub-line in a manner that forms a first batch of m×n products;
  • boxing means able to box sequentially said m rows of n products constituting the first batch inside a first packaging container.

In the invention, the offset means are able to send a first succession of n products, intended to constitute a first row of a second batch, in a transverse movement with no lag relative to the continuous supply flow, along a separate buffer positioning sub-line adjacent to the m positioning sub-lines on which the m rows of n products constituting the first batch can be formed, so as to allow the collection and assembly of products constituting the first batch without interrupting or slowing the continuous supply flow of products, and the boxing means are arranged to box the first batch with no substantial delay after the collection and assembly of the first batch, in a manner that allows the boxing to occur without interrupting or slowing the continuous supply flow.

The use of a buffer positioning sub-line separate from the positioning sub-lines in which the products of a first batch are collected allows the directing, collection, and assembly of products coming from the continuous supply flow even when the products forming the first batch currently being boxed remains in place for a period of time in the corresponding positioning sub-lines. It is thus possible to maintain the continuous supply flow of products without interruption, and therefore to maintain a high speed.

In one embodiment, the m positioning sub-lines are arranged so that the m rows of n products are spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction by a predetermined spacing distance. This prevents the products from colliding, which could cause unanticipated product movements or falls which could lead to difficulties during later steps in the boxing method, possibly resulting in having to halt the product supply flow.

In this case, in one embodiment, the boxing device comprises positioning rails of a thickness corresponding to the spacing distance to ensure the guiding, transverse positioning, and maintaining in position of m successions of n products along the m positioning sub-lines. The presence of positioning rails decreases the risk of products being improperly positioned in the positioning sub-lines and therefore facilitates the step of collecting, assembling, and boxing batches of products in packaging containers.

In this case and in one embodiment, boxing means comprise m rows of n gripper heads, the m rows of n gripper heads being able to draw closer to one another in the transverse direction so as to box the m rows of n products inside a packaging container. The use of gripper heads able to move relative to one another in the transverse direction provides a fast, easy, and secure manner for the transverse grouping of products placed in separate positioning sub-lines in preparation for boxing them in packaging containers.

In one embodiment, the device comprises a scraper arm positioned between the buffer positioning sub-line and the positioning sub-line adjacent to this buffer positioning sub-line, the scraper arm being able to move in the transverse direction to group the m rows of n products transversely so that these m rows are adjacent to one another in this transverse direction. Thus the products placed in separate positioning sub-lines are grouped transversely without requiring additional technology cooperating with the boxing means to move the gripper heads.

In one embodiment, the collection means comprise a barrier wall able to stop the advancement of n products along the m positioning sub-lines. This is a simple and effective technical solution for grouping products in each positioning sub-line.

In one embodiment, the collection means comprise a barrier wall able to slow the advancement of n products along m positioning sub-lines without stopping them. This other solution can be useful for keeping products in motion before they are boxed in packaging containers, thus spreading out the production line.

In one embodiment, the boxing device comprises shaping means able to shape packaging containers and convey these packaging containers along a second supply line positioned near the positioning sub-lines and extending in a substantially longitudinal direction.

This ensures optimal positioning of the product supply stream relative to the packaging container supply stream and thus offers the possibility of integrating the packaging line into a larger production line which integrates for example the production of product.

In this case, in one embodiment the shaping means are able to convey the packaging containers in a direction of motion that is opposite the direction of motion of the m rows of n products collected in the m positioning sub-lines. The supply containers are thus shaped near the boxing station, which facilitates feeding them in without imposing significant space constraints.

In particular, the shaping means may shape the packaging containers by folding and gluing a blank upstream of the second supply line.

In one embodiment, the offset means comprise: a gripping module able to grasp a succession of n products in a manner that allows conveying these n products in an offset movement relative to the first supply line; a drive module simultaneously able to ensure both the movement of the gripping module in the transverse direction, and the movement of this gripping module in the longitudinal direction with no loss of speed relative to the continuous supply flow; in a manner that ensures a movement of the succession of n products in the transverse direction with no lag relative to the continuous supply flow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description, provided for illustrative purposes and not intended to be limiting, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a general partial perspective view of a boxing device of the invention, on which are located products, packaging containers, as well as formed batches of products arranged in the packaging containers;

FIG. 2 is a detailed partial perspective view of the product supply line and the means of conveying the continuous flow of supplied products, parts of the boxing device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a detailed partial perspective view of the offset means that are part of the boxing device of FIG. 1, which direct products to the positioning sub-lines with no lag relative to the continuous flow of supplied products;

FIGS. 4a to 4q are detailed partial top views of the offset and collection means that are part of the boxing device of FIG. 1, during the steps of directing, collecting, and boxing two batches of products according to the invention;

FIG. 5 is a detailed partial perspective view of the means for shaping packaging containers, of the boxing device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a detailed partial perspective view of the second packaging container supply line that is part of the boxing device of FIG. 1.

MORE DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The invention relates to the boxing of identical or similar products A, meaning products having dimensions that are relatively close to each other but possibly with certain differences, particularly decorative differences.

In one non-limiting embodiment, these products A may be arranged on trays each comprising a plurality of items A substantially of the same length in a direction of advancement referred to as the longitudinal direction D_L and of the same length in a transverse direction D_T perpendicular to the longitudinal direction D_L.

Only products A will be discussed below, but it should be noted that what applies to products A also applies to trays P of products A.

The products A are intended to be arranged in one or more rows R, each comprising one or more products A, in order to form batches L of products A. These batches L of products A thus consist of m rows R composed of n products each, m and n being integers greater than or equal to 1.

In several embodiments given as examples and not intended to be limiting, the batches L can thus consist of four rows of six products as represented in FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 6, or two rows of three products as represented in FIGS. 4a to 4q, etc.

The products A are typically in primary packaging such as containers of plastic, waxed cardboard, or similar, intended to be closed with caps and containing fresh or ultra-fresh milk products such as yogurt and similar, puddings, ice creams and similar, but also cheese products and compotes.

This is only a non-limiting example, and by convention the term “product” means a primary packaging filled with its content. In a typical embodiment, the products A are generally cylindrical or prismatic or pseudo-cylindrical or pseudo-prismatic or ovoid in shape, or similar, with a normally vertical axis. In a typical embodiment, the longitudinal dimension of such a product A is on the order of a few centimeters.

The batches L of products A are intended to be boxed in packaging containers C.

This can be utilized and applied when the products A and packaging containers C are produced separately. In particular, the method of the invention can be used and the machine of the invention can be installed downstream, in particular immediately or almost immediately downstream, from a line or unit that produces the items A (making the content, filling, and closing).

The boxing device of the invention, as represented in FIG. 1, comprises a frame and appropriate support elements (only partially represented). This device lies within a substantially horizontal plane.

The boxing device comprises a first supply line V_A for supplying products A.

This first supply line V_A, particularly evident in FIGS. 1 and 2, lies substantially horizontally in the longitudinal direction D_L and first forms an area referred to as the supply area 10a.

Along this supply area 10a, the first supply line V_A has two guide rails 12 extending substantially in the longitudinal direction D_L. In addition, the two guide rails 12 are spaced apart in the transverse direction D_T substantially by a width slightly greater than the width of the products A. In this manner, the products A are able to move in the longitudinal direction D_L within the supply area 10a, but their position in the transverse direction D_T is constrained by the two guide rails 12.

As represented in FIG. 1, the supply area 10a may possibly have a curved region 14 in which the guide rails 12 are curved in order to achieve a more or less pronounced movement of the products A in the transverse direction D_T.

The boxing device also comprises transport means 16.

These transport means 16, visible in particular in FIGS. 1 and 2, transport the products A along the first supply line V_A, in the longitudinal direction D_L which is also the direction of motion of the transport parts and mechanisms constituting these transport means 16, such as conveyors or conveying means.

The conveyors or conveying means and therefore the products A can be set in motion in a given direction longitudinally D_L, which defines an upstream side and a downstream side of the first supply line V_A.

In the embodiment in FIG. 1, the transport means 16 comprise one or more band conveyor belts 18 arranged at the exit or near the exit from a line or a unit which produces products A. These conveyor belts 18 transport the products A along the first supply line V_A and in particular into the supply area 10a, from the upstream side to the downstream side.

When the supply area 10a has a curved region 14, the transport means 16 consist of as many conveyor belts 18 as are necessary to transport the products A in spite of the transverse movement generated by this curved region 14.

In the embodiment represented in FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 6, the transport means 16 thus comprise two conveyor belts 18 and are able to transport a continuous supply flow F_A of products aligned one behind the other along the supply line V_A.

The expression “continuous supply flow F_A” is understood to mean that the products A arranged in the first supply line V_A are conveyed in a continuous manner in the supply area 10a by the transport means 16.

Conversely, this does not necessarily mean that the products A are lined up with no discontinuities in the first supply line V_A. On the contrary: depending on how the products A are loaded in the first supply line V_A—for example from the unit where the products A are produced—it is possible for brief interruptions to occur in the supply of products A.

The first supply line V_A next forms an offset area 10b downstream from the supply area 10a.

This offset area 10b, represented in more detail in FIG. 3, contains as many positioning sub-lines 20 as are necessary for forming rows R of products A in order to constitute a batch L.

Thus, assuming that a batch consists of m rows R of n products A, the offset area 10b contains m distinct positioning sub-lines 20, arranged so they are adjacent to each other in the transverse direction D_T.

These positioning sub-lines 20 extend in the longitudinal direction D_L.

In the invention, the offset area 10b also contains a buffer positioning sub-line 22 that is also distinct from and adjacent to the m positioning sub-lines 20 and extends in the longitudinal direction D_L.

The positioning sub-lines 20 and the buffer positioning sub-line 22 are able to receive a row R of n products A. As a result, the positioning sub-lines 20 and the buffer positioning sub-line 22 each have a width in the transverse direction D_T which is at least equal to the width of the products A. As a result, the offset area 10b has a total width, in the transverse direction D_T, corresponding to at least the sum of m positioning sub-lines 20 and one buffer positioning sub-line 22, meaning a width at least equal to (m+1) times the width of a product A.

By convention, “positioning sub-lines” 20 are the sub-lines which, during a boxing cycle, will receive the products A constituting the first batch L.

Also by convention, “buffer positioning sub-line” 22 is the sub-line which, during said boxing cycle, receives products A intended for constituting the second batch L created after said first batch L.

It should be noted that in the embodiment just described, the offset area 10b is mentioned as having only one buffer positioning sub-line 22. However, in alternative embodiments, it would also be possible for the offset area 10b to contain several buffer positioning sub-lines 22 that receive products A intended for constituting the second batch L.

To ensure the movement of products A along the offset area 10b, the boxing device comprises conveyors or conveying means as above. More specifically, in one non-limiting embodiment, the boxing device contains sufficient conveyor belts 18 to cover the width of m positioning sub-lines 20 and of the buffer positioning sub-line 22.

As is shown in the embodiment in FIG. 3, the offset area 10b may, for example, comprise three conveyor belts 18.

As above, these conveyor belts 18 allow transporting the products A along the longitudinal direction D_L in the same direction as above, which moves the products A from the upstream side to the downstream side of the offset area 10b.

The m positioning sub-lines 20 are arranged so that the m rows R of n products A are spaced apart from each other by a predetermined spacing distance in the transverse direction D_T.

This spacing distance may be large or may almost be zero, depending on the embodiments.

Creating sufficient spacing distance between the rows R of products A mechanically prevents contact between these products A when they are positioned in the positioning sub-lines 20 and therefore limits the risk of improper positioning of said products A relative to each other.

To improve accuracy in positioning the products A in the positioning sub-lines 20 and in the buffer positioning sub-line, the offset area 10b can comprise positioning rails (not represented) of a thickness corresponding to the spacing distance. This ensures the guiding, transverse positioning, and maintaining in position of m successions of n products along m positioning sub-lines 20.

These guide rails may extend all the way to the collection means (described later) or alternatively may end before.

It is also possible to do without such guide rails, as illustrated in FIG. 1.

The boxing device also comprises offset means 24 for directing the products A.

These offset means 24, represented in FIGS. 2 and 3, are structurally connected to the guide rails 12 of the first supply line V_A which guide the continuous supply flow F_A of products A to the offset means 24.

The offset means 24 comprise a gripping module 26 which is able to grasp a succession of n products, where n corresponds to the number of products A forming a row R of the batch L.

In the embodiment in FIG. 3, the gripping module 26 comprises two gripping rods 28 of a length approximately equal to the total length of a succession of n products A in the longitudinal direction D_L. These gripping rods 28 are spaced apart from each other by a distance slightly greater than the width of the products A and are able to draw closer to one another in the transverse direction D_T so as to clasp the succession of n products A.

The offset means 24 also comprise a drive module 30 having a gantry 32 with two-way motion and two motors 34.

The gantry 32 structurally and functionally supports the gripping module 26 and, driven by the motors 34, ensures the simultaneous or consecutive movement of this gripping module 26 in the longitudinal direction D_L on the one hand, and in the transverse direction D_T on the other hand.

Thus after having grasped the succession of n products A, the gripping module 26 is able to move simultaneously or consecutively:

• • in the longitudinal direction D_L so that the gripping module 26 does not lose speed relative to the continuous supply flow F_A of product A; and
  • in the transverse direction D_T so that this succession of products A is positioned facing a positioning sub-line 20 or a buffer positioning sub-line 22.

In this manner, the offset means 24 are able to move this succession of products A not only in the transverse direction D_T but also in the longitudinal direction D_L, making up for the delay caused by the transverse offset and placing said succession of products A in a position analogous to the one it occupied relative to the continuous supply flow F_A before the offset.

Thus, the offset means 24 are able to send m successions of n products A arranged in m rows R respectively positioned along m positioning sub-lines 20, by m movements in transverse directions with no lag relative to the continuous supply flow F_A.

Alternatively, this offset with no lag can be done by sliding products A on the conveyor belts 18 or by raising the products A relative to these conveyor belts 18.

In the case where the offset area 10b has no guide rail, the offset means 24 ensure sufficiently accurate positioning of the rows R of products A along the positioning sub-lines 20 to prevent contacts likely to result in improper positioning of products A relative to each other.

In general, it should be noted that the example embodiment of the offset means 24 illustrated in FIG. 3 is only provided as an example and is not intended to be limiting. The gripping module 26 could therefore be created differently, adapted to the shape, the appearance, and/or the adhesion of the products A.

It should also be noted that, in one embodiment, the offset means 24 comprise passage detectors 35 able to identify the passage of products A beyond a predetermined position along the first supply line V_A.

These passage detectors 35 are thus able to determine the number of products A—corresponding to a succession of products A able to form a row R of n products—having passed by and traveled beyond the predetermined position.

The gripping module 26 is controlled by the passage detectors 35 and can therefore be set in motion automatically when the last product A of a succession of n products A exits the offset area 10b in a manner that triggers the offset step immediately or after a predetermined delay without delaying a new succession of n products A.

The boxing device also comprises collection means 36.

These collection means 36 are able to collect and assemble, in the longitudinal direction D_L, the n products of each row R along its positioning sub-line 20 in a manner that forms a first batch L of m×n products A.

In the embodiment represented in FIG. 3, these collection means 36 consist of a transversely arranged barrier wall 38 which allows completely stopping the advancement of products A relative to the continuous supply flow F_A.

Thus, when a succession of n products A is conveyed in the longitudinal direction D_L along a positioning sub-line 20, the barrier wall 38 first completely stops the advancement of the first product A positioned furthest upstream. Then, when this first product A is joined by a second product A, the advancement of the latter is also stopped by the barrier wall 38, via the first product A. This phenomenon is repeated for all n products A constituting a row R.

As a variant, the collection means 36 may be implemented differently and in particular may comprise a barrier wall (not represented) moving in the longitudinal direction D_L at a speed that is less than that of the conveyor belts 18.

In this manner, these collection means 36 are able to slow, without stopping, the advancement of n products along m positioning sub-lines 20 in a manner that ensures their collection and assembly in the longitudinal direction D_L.

In one embodiment (not represented in FIG. 3), the collection means 36 also comprise a scraper arm 40 able to move in the transverse direction D_T in order to group the m rows R of n products A in this transverse direction D_T.

These m rows R of n products A can be placed adjacent to each other in the transverse direction D_T just before they are boxed in the packaging containers C, which facilitates this operation.

In one embodiment, the scraper arm 40 is systematically positioned between the buffer positioning sub-line 22 and the adjacent positioning sub-line 20 so that the products A sent towards the buffer positioning sub-lines 22 do not interfere with the scraper arm 40 in the transverse direction D_T.

On the other hand, in an exemplary embodiment that is not intended to be limiting, the scraper arm 40 is physically carried by the barrier wall 38, oriented perpendicular to said wall and driven by a motor 34 via a transmission belt. However, as a variant, this scraper arm 40 could also be structurally and functionally independent of the barrier wall 38, for example being supported by the frame of the boxing device.

FIGS. 4a to 4q illustrate a detailed partial top view of the operation of the boxing device of FIG. 1, in the context of forming and boxing a first batch L₁ and then a second batch L₂ of products A consisting of two rows R₁, R₂ of three products A₁, A₂, A₃ each.

As is shown in FIG. 4a, the products A are first conveyed by the transport means 16 along the first supply line V_A in the longitudinal direction and form a continuous supply flow F_A of aligned products A.

These products A are thus conveyed to the offset means 24 which are in a predetermined position along a first positioning sub-line 20₁.

It is evident from FIGS. 4b to 4f that a first succession of three products A₁, A₂, A₃ continues its advancement along this first positioning sub-line 20₁ due to the action of the transport means 16, and reaches the collection means 36, specifically the barrier wall 38. In this manner, the first succession of products A₁, A₂, A₃ forms a first row R₁ of three products A₁, A₂, A₃ positioned along the first positioning sub-line 20₁.

More specifically, the three products A₁, A₂, A₃ of the first row R₁ are collected and assembled in the longitudinal direction D_L, as represented in FIG. 4f.

As soon as the passage detectors 35 detect the passage of the third product A₃ to beyond the gripping module 26, an instruction signal is sent to the offset means 24 in order to initiate the step of sending a second succession of products A₁, A₂, A₃ along a second positioning sub-line 20₂.

To do this, the gripping module 26 grasps the second succession of products A₁, A₂, A₃ and, thanks to the drive module 30, begins a movement in the transverse direction D_T so as arrive facing the second positioning sub-line 20₂, and a movement in the longitudinal direction D_L to avoid any lag relative to the continuous supply flow F_A.

This is what is represented in FIGS. 4d and 4e.

The offset means 24 thus allow sending the second succession of products A₁, A₂, A₃ along the second positioning sub-line 20₂, by movement in the transverse direction D_T with no lag relative to the continuous supply flow F_A.

It can be seen in FIGS. 4f to 4i that the second succession of three products A₁, A₂, A₃ then continues its movement in the longitudinal direction D_L due to the action of the drive means 16 and reaches the collection means 36, specifically the barrier wall 38. In this manner, the second succession of products A₁, A₂, A₃ forms a second row R₂ of three products A₁, A₂, A₃ collected and assembled in the second positioning sub-line 20₂.

This second row R₂ is adjacent to the first row R₁.

It should be noted that the operation of sending the second succession of products A₁, A₂, A₃ is initiated before the phase of collecting the first row R1 of products A₁, A₂, A₃ is entirely completed.

In the embodiment represented in FIGS. 4h and 4j, the collection means 36 comprise a scraper arm 40 which ensures the grouping of the first row R1 and the second row R₂ of products A₁, A₂, A₃ in the transverse direction D_T.

The first row R1 of products A₁, A₂, A₃ and the second row R₂ of products A₁, A₂, A₃ then form a first batch L₁ of products A₁, A₂, A₃ grouped in the longitudinal D_L and transverse D_T directions.

This first batch L₁ is ready to be boxed in packaging containers C as is symbolized—without representing the boxing means (described later)—in the succession in FIGS. 4j and 4h.

When this step of boxing the first batch L₁ in a packaging container C has ended, the first boxing cycle is complete.

In the invention and as represented in FIGS. 4g to 4j, the boxing method consists of initiating the step of sending a third succession of three products A₁, A₂, A₃ intended to form the first row R₁ of a second batch lot L₂ during the phase of collecting the second row R₂ of the first batch L₁.

Thus, as is shown in FIGS. 4g and 4h, as soon as the passage detectors 35 detect the passage of the third product A₃ of the second succession of products A₁, A₂, A₃ to beyond the gripping module 26, an instruction signal is sent to the offset means 24 in order to initiate the step of sending the third succession of products A₁, A₂, A₃ along a buffer positioning sub-line 22.

In the same manner as above, the gripping module 26 grasps the third succession of products A₁, A₂, A₃ and, due to the drive module 30, begins moving in the transverse direction D_T so that it faces the buffer positioning sub-line 22 and moving in the longitudinal direction D_L to avoid any lag relative to the continuous supply flow F_A.

This is what is represented in FIGS. 4g and 4h.

Because of the use of this buffer positioning sub-line 22, it is possible to maintain the continuous supply flow F_A of products A while having a sufficient interval of time for the boxing means (described below) to box the first batch L₁. In effect, the third succession of products A₁, A₂, A₃ continues its movement in the longitudinal direction D_L due to the action of the transport means 16 and reaches the barrier wall 38. However, because the buffer positioning sub-line 22 is separate from and adjacent to the second positioning sub-line 20₂, there is no risk of the third succession of products A₁, A₂, A₃ encountering and interfering with the positioning of the first row R1 and second row R2 of the products A1, A2, A3 forming the first batch L₁.

This can be seen in FIGS. 4i and 4j.

While the first batch L₁ is being boxed, the third succession of three products A₁, A₂, A₃ continues its movement in the longitudinal direction D_L due to the action of the transport means 16, and the three corresponding products A₁, A₂, A₃ reach the barrier wall 38.

In this manner, the third succession of products A₁, A₂, A₃ forms a first row R₁ of three products A₁, A₂, A₃ collected and assembled along the buffer positioning sub-line 22 in preparation for forming a second batch L₂.

The buffer positioning sub-line 22, considered as such during the cycle of boxing the first batch L₁, now becomes the first positioning sub-line 20₁ receiving the three products A₁, A₂, A₃ intended to form the first row R1 of the second batch L₂.

As soon as the passage detectors 35 detect the passage of the third product A₃ to beyond the gripping module 26, an instruction signal is sent to the offset means 24 in preparation for initiating the step of sending a fourth succession of products A₁, A₂, A₃ along the second positioning sub-line 20₂.

To do this, the gripping module 26 grasps the second succession of products A₁, A₂, A₃ and, due to the drive module 30, begins moving in the transverse direction D_T so that it faces the second positioning sub-line 20₂ and moving in the longitudinal direction D_L to avoid any lag relative to the continuous supply flow F_A.

This is what is represented in FIGS. 4j and 4k.

The offset means 24 thus allow sending the fourth succession of products A₁, A₂, A₃ along the second positioning sub-line 20₂, in a movement in the transverse direction DT with no lag relative to the continuous supply flow F_A.

II can be seen from FIGS. 4k to 4o that the fourth succession of three products A₁, A₂, A₃ then continues its movement in the longitudinal direction D_L due to the action of the transport means 16 and reaches the collection means 36, specifically the barrier wall 38. In this manner, the fourth succession of products A₁, A₂, A₃ forms a second row R₂ of three products A₁, A₂, A₃ collected and assembled in a second positioning sub-line 20₂.

This second row R₂ is adjacent to the first row R₁.

It should be noted that the operation of sending the second succession of products A₁, A₂, A₃ is initiated before the phase of collecting the first row R1 of products A₁, A₂, A₃ has entirely completed.

In the embodiment represented in particular in FIGS. 4n and 4o, the scraper arm 40 ensures the grouping of the first row R1 and second row R₂ of products A₁, A₂, A₃ in the transverse direction D_T.

The first row R1 of products A₁, A₂, A₃ and the second row R₂ of products A₁, A₂, A₃ then form the second batch L₂ of products A₁, A₂, A₃ regrouped in the longitudinal D_L and transverse D_T directions.

This second batch L₂ is ready to be boxed in packaging containers C as is illustrated—without representing the packaging means (described later)—in the succession in FIGS. 4p and 4q.

At the end of this step of boxing the second batch in a packaging container C, the second boxing cycle is complete.

In the same manner as above and as represented in FIGS. 4m to 4n, the boxing method of the invention consists of initiating the step of sending a fifth succession of three products A₁, A₂, A₃ intended to form the first row R₁ of a third batch L₃ during the phase of collecting the second row R₂ constituting the second batch L₂.

Thus, as is shown in FIGS. 4m and 4n, as soon as the passage detectors 35 detect the passage of the third product A₃ of the fourth succession of products A₁, A₂, A₃ beyond the gripping module 26, an instruction signal is sent to the offset means 24 in preparation for initiating the step of sending the fifth succession of products A₁, A₂, A₃ along a buffer positioning sub-line 22.

This buffer positioning sub-line 22 then corresponds to what was considered the first positioning sub-line 20₁ during the first batch L₁ boxing cycle.

In the same manner as above, the gripping module 26 grasps the fifth succession of products A₁, A₂, A₃ and, due to the drive module 30, begins moving in the transverse direction D_T so that it faces the buffer positioning sub-line 22 and moving in the longitudinal direction D_L to avoid any lag relative to the continuous supply flow F_A.

This is what is represented in FIGS. 4m and 4n.

Because of the use of the buffer positioning sub-line 22, it is possible to maintain the continuous supply flow F_A of products A while having a sufficient interval of time for the boxing means (described later) to box the second batch L₂. In effect, the fifth succession of products A₁, A₂, A₃ continues its movement in the longitudinal direction D_L due to the action of the transport means 16 and reaches the barrier wall 38. However, because the buffer positioning sub-line 22 is separate from and adjacent to the second positioning sub-line 20₂, there is no risk of the third succession of products A₁, A₂, A₃ encountering and interfering with the positioning of the first row R1 and second row R2 of the products A1, A2, A3 forming the first batch L₁.

This can be seen in FIGS. 4o and 4p.

While the first batch L₁ is being boxed, the fifth succession of three products A₁, A₂, A₃ continues its movement in the longitudinal direction D_L due to the action of the transport means 16, and the three corresponding products A₁, A₂, A₃ reach the barrier wall 38.

In this manner, the fifth succession of products A₁, A₂, A₃ forms a first row R₁ of three products A₁, A₂, A₃ collected and assembled along the buffer positioning sub-line 22 in preparation for forming a third batch L₃.

The buffer positioning sub-line 22, considered as such during the cycle of boxing the second batch L₂, now becomes the first positioning sub-line 20₁ receiving the third products A₁, A₂, A₃ intended to form the first row R1 of the third batch L₃.

These steps then cyclically follow one another in order to form as many batches L of products A as are necessary.

As mentioned above, the device comprises boxing means 46 for packaging batches L_S.

These boxing means 46 for packaging batches L_s, represented in particular in FIG. 6, are capable of sequentially offloading the batches L of products A, collected and assembled by the collection means 36 in the first supply line V_A, to packaging containers C adapted for the packaging and handling of batches L of products A.

In one embodiment, the boxing means 46 comprise a gripper unit 48 consisting of m rows of n gripper heads 48a, to allow manipulating and moving m×n products A forming a batch L.

However, in some embodiments this manipulation can also occur in several steps.

The gripper heads 24 are able to move in the transverse direction D_T, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction D_L, and in the vertical direction, in order to extract products A from the first supply line V_A from above and transport them in the transverse direction D_T to the packaging containers C.

As above, it should be noted that these gripper heads 24 can be controlled by passage detectors 35 to begin manipulating and moving the products A when the products are collected and assembled in the longitudinal direction and possibly in the transverse direction D_T.

In the embodiment in which the collection means 36 are without a scraper arm 40, it is possible to use the boxing means 46 to group in the transverse direction D_T, prior to boxing, the products A constituting a batch L.

To do this, the m rows of n gripper heads 46a that are part of the boxing means 46 are able to draw closer to one another in the transverse direction D_T so as to box the m rows of n products inside a packaging container.

Due to this, the operation of grouping products A in the transverse direction D_T has less impact on the speed of the boxing device because this operation of grouping products A in the transverse direction DT can be done in the background while maneuvering the batch L towards the packaging containers.

The boxing means 46 are associated with means 50 for supplying packaging containers C.

These supply means 50, represented in FIGS. 5 and 6, include conveyors or conveying means which transport the packaging containers C in a supply flow of packaging containers C, supported by a second supply line V_C.

This supply flow of packaging containers C is oriented in a direction of advancement that is also referred to as the longitudinal direction D_L′ and is preferably parallel to the longitudinal direction D_L of the continuous supply flow F_A of products A.

The supply means 50 and therefore the packaging containers C can be set in motion in a given direction along the longitudinal direction D_L′, opposite the direction the products A are moving in the continuous supply flow F_A of products A.

As an example, the supply means 50 comprise a band conveyor belt 52 capable of transporting the packaging containers C along the longitudinal direction D_L′ in the direction opposite the direction the products A are moving in the continuous supply flow F_A of products A.

The supply means 50 which are supplying the packaging containers C are synchronized relative to the boxing means 46, to allow accelerating, slowing, or stopping the packaging containers C in the supply stream of packaging containers C. It is thus possible to position the packaging containers C precisely relative to the boxing means 46 in order to offload the batches L of products A into the packaging containers C.

The supply means 50 additionally comprise positioning sensors (not represented) which allow identifying the position of packaging containers C in the supply stream and, in particular, to determine when these packaging containers C are at the right location for offloading the batches L of products A. The conveyor belt 52, which is controlled by its positioning sensors, is then stopped in order to offload the batches L into the packaging containers C.

The device comprises means 54 for carrying away packaging containers C.

These means 54 for carrying away packaging containers C comprise, for example, a band conveyor belt 54a arranged at or near the exit of the means 50 for supplying packaging containers C so as to take the packaging containers C filled with batches L of products A away from the boxing means 46 for said batches L of products A.

This conveyor belt, possibly associated with a roller conveyor 54b, transports the packaging containers C filled with batches L in an exit direction which may be, for example, transverse to the longitudinal direction D_L′.

This allows the means 54 for carrying away the packaging containers C to convey the packaging containers C filled with batches L of products A to a handling station, for example.

In one embodiment, the device comprises means 56 for shaping the packaging containers C.

These shaping means 56 are placed upstream of the second supply line V_C and perform the shaping of packaging containers C from blanks 58 of cardboard or a similar material.

More specifically, the shaping means 50 receives blanks 58 one by one from a magazine 60 in which the blanks 58 are flat, stacked, and positioned facing the second supply line V_C.

In the magazines 60, the blanks 58 are stacked, angled relative to the vertical, and carried by the supporting elements to the exit from the magazine 34. Thus when a first blank 58 to be used is extracted from the magazine 60, the next blank 58—which was previously stacked on top of the first blank—comes into position against the supporting elements of the magazine 60, ready for its turn to be extracted.

The blanks 58 are distributed in this manner to the shaping means 56, which shape the packaging containers C by folding and gluing the blanks 58, upstream of the second supply line VC.

The boxing device thus manages the supply of packaging containers C to the second supply line V_C in a satisfactory manner.

Claims

1-22. (canceled)

23. A boxing method intended, from a continuous supply flow of similar products, for sequentially boxing batches of products inside packaging containers, the batches being formed of m rows of n products each, m and n being integers greater than or equal to 1, the boxing method comprising a succession of steps consisting of:

conveying a continuous supply flow of aligned products along a first supply line extending in a longitudinal direction; and

sending, by m movements in transverse directions with no lag relative to the continuous supply flow, m successions of n products in m rows respectively positioned along m distinct positioning sub-lines, arranged to be adjacent in the first supply line;

collecting and assembling in the longitudinal direction the n products of each row along m positioning sub-lines so as to form a first batch of m×n products;

sequentially boxing said m rows of n products constituting the first batch, inside a first packaging container;

wherein the boxing method consists of:

initiating the step of sending a first succession of n products intended to form a first row of a second batch, during the phase of collecting one of the rows of n products constituting the first batch, this first succession of n products intended to form a first row of a second batch being sent, in a transverse movement with no lag relative to the continuous supply flow, along a separate buffer positioning sub-line adjacent to the m positioning sub-lines on which the m rows of n products constituting the first batch have been formed, so as to allow the collection and assembly of products constituting the first batch without interrupting or slowing the continuous supply flow of products; and

initiating the step of boxing the first batch with no substantial delay after the collection and assembly of the first batch, in a manner that allows the boxing to occur without interrupting or slowing the continuous supply flow of products.

24. The boxing method according to claim 23, wherein the step of sending m successions of n products consists of positioning the m rows of n products along m positioning sub-lines so that the m rows of n products are spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction by a predetermined spacing distance.

25. The boxing method according to claim 24, wherein positioning rails of a thickness corresponding to the spacing distance are arranged to ensure the guiding, transverse positioning, and maintaining in position of m successions of n products along the m positioning sub-lines.

26. The boxing method according to claim 24, wherein the boxing step is performed by boxing means comprising m rows of n gripper heads, the m rows of n gripper heads drawing closer to one another in the transverse direction during the step of boxing the m rows of n products inside a packaging container.

27. The boxing method according to claim 24, comprising a grouping step performed after the step of collecting m rows of n products and consisting of grouping the m rows of n products in the transverse direction so that these m rows are adjacent to one another in this transverse direction.

28. The boxing method according to claim 27, wherein the grouping step is performed by means of a scraper arm positioned between the buffer positioning sub-line and the positioning sub-line adjacent to said buffer positioning sub-line, the scraper arm moving in the transverse direction to group the m rows of n products in the transverse direction so that these m rows are adjacent to one another in this transverse direction.

29. The boxing method according to claim 23, wherein the step of collecting and assembling n products in each row is achieved by means of a barrier wall which stops the advancement of n products in the m positioning sub-lines.

30. The boxing method according to claim 23, wherein the step of collecting and assembling n products in each row is achieved by means of a barrier wall which slows the advancement of the n products along the m positioning sub-lines without stopping them.

31. The boxing method according to claim 23, wherein the packaging containers are shaped and then conveyed along a second supply line positioned near the positioning sub-lines and extending in a substantially longitudinal direction.

32. The boxing method according to claim 31, wherein the packaging containers are moved in a direction opposite the direction of motion of the m rows of n products collected in the m positioning sub-lines.

33. The boxing method according to claim 31, wherein the packaging containers are shaped by folding and gluing a blank upstream of the second supply line.

34. A boxing device intended for carrying out a method for sequentially boxing batches of products inside packaging containers according to claim 23, the batches being formed of m rows of n products each, m and n being integers greater than or equal to 1, the boxing device comprising:

a first supply line extending in a longitudinal direction;

transport means able to convey a continuous supply flow of aligned products along the first supply line;

offset means able to send, by m movements in transverse directions with no lag relative to the continuous supply flow, m successions of n products in m rows respectively positioned along m distinct positioning sub-lines arranged in an adjacent manner in the first supply line;

collection means able to collect and assemble, in the longitudinal direction, the n products of each row along its positioning sub-line in a manner that forms a first batch of m×n products;

boxing means able to box sequentially said m rows of n products constituting the first batch inside a first packaging container;

wherein

the offset means being able to send a first succession of n products, intended to constitute a first row of a second batch, in a transverse movement with no lag relative to the continuous supply flow, along a separate buffer positioning sub-line adjacent to the m positioning sub-lines on which the m rows of n products constituting the first batch can be formed, so as to allow the collection and assembly of products constituting the first batch without interrupting or slowing the continuous supply flow of products; and

the boxing means being arranged to box the first batch with no substantial delay after the collection and assembly of the first batch, in a manner that allows the boxing to occur without interrupting or slowing the continuous supply flow.

35. The boxing device according to claim 34, wherein the m positioning sub-lines are arranged so that the m rows of n products are spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction by a predetermined spacing distance.

36. The boxing device according to claim 35, comprising positioning rails of a thickness corresponding to the spacing distance to ensure the guiding, transverse positioning, and maintaining in position of m successions of n products along the m positioning sub-lines.

37. The boxing device according to claim 36, wherein the boxing means comprise m rows of n gripper heads, the m rows of n gripper heads being able to draw closer to one another in the transverse direction so as to box the m rows of n products inside a packaging container.

38. The boxing device according to claim 35, comprising a scraper arm positioned between the buffer positioning sub-line and the positioning sub-line adjacent to this buffer positioning sub-line, the scraper arm being able to move in the transverse direction to group the m rows of n products in the transverse direction so that these m rows are adjacent to one another in this transverse direction.

39. The boxing device according to claim 34, wherein the collection means comprise a barrier wall able to stop the advancement of n products along the m positioning sub-lines.

40. The boxing device according to claim 34, wherein the collection means comprise a barrier wall able to slow, without stopping, the advancement of n products along the m positioning sub-lines.

41. The boxing device according to claim 34, comprising shaping means able to shape packaging containers and supply means able to convey these packaging containers along a second supply line positioned near the positioning sub-lines and extending in a substantially longitudinal direction.

42. The boxing device according to claim 41, wherein the supply means are able to convey the packaging containers in a direction of motion that is opposite the direction of motion of the m rows of n products collected in the m positioning sub-lines.

43. The boxing device according to claim 41, wherein the shaping means are able to shape the packaging containers by folding and gluing a blank upstream of the second supply line.

44. The boxing device according to claim 34, wherein the offset means comprise:

a gripping module able to grasp a succession of n products in a manner that allows conveying these n products in an offset movement relative to the first supply line;

a drive module simultaneously able to ensure both the movement of the gripping module in the transverse direction on the one hand, and the movement of this gripping module in the longitudinal direction with no loss of speed relative to the continuous supply flow on the other hand;

in a manner that ensures a movement of the succession of n products in the transverse direction with no lag relative to the continuous supply flow of products.