Abstract: The invention relates to a protective structure for machines or apparatus, in particular an apparatus for the handling of containers, which has a barrier to limit noise emissions to the external environment. In particular, the invention relates to a protective structure 1 for an apparatus for the handling of containers comprising a frame 2, panels 9 for insulating it from the external environment, fastened to said frame 2 by fastening means 10 which create a gap between said frame 2 and said panels 9, and gasket means arranged in said gap, characterized in that said gasket means comprise gasket walls 11 which can be expanded by blowing in fluids under pressure.

Abstract: A method for processing containers involves: detection of the conveying, speed of the containers so as to synchronize cushioned stoppage and accompanying device with said speed; detection of an interstice between consecutive containers and insertion of said device in said interstice; gradual, controlled and programmable, stoppage of the some of the containers in a predetermined space and simultaneous accompanying of the containers downstream of the stoppage zone, at the conveying speed of the conveying line. The cushioned stoppage device comprise a linear motor (1a) movable in a direction parallel to that of conveying of the containers (2) and provided with a stopping member (8) which is displaced in a direction perpendicular to that of the containers (2) so as to be inserted between two consecutive containers (2).