(19)
(11)EP 3 364 782 B1

(12)EUROPEAN PATENT SPECIFICATION

(45)Mention of the grant of the patent:
17.06.2020 Bulletin 2020/25

(21)Application number: 16795414.8

(22)Date of filing:  12.10.2016
(51)International Patent Classification (IPC): 
A24C 5/32(2006.01)
A24D 3/02(2006.01)
(86)International application number:
PCT/IB2016/056090
(87)International publication number:
WO 2017/068462 (27.04.2017 Gazette  2017/17)

(54)

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MOVING TUBULAR BODIES

VORRICHTUNG UND VERFAHREN ZUM BEWEGEN VON ROHRFÖRMIGEN KÖRPERN

DISPOSITIF ET PROCÉDÉ PERMETTANT DE DÉPLACER DES CORPS TUBULAIRES


(84)Designated Contracting States:
AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

(30)Priority: 19.10.2015 IT UB20154981

(43)Date of publication of application:
29.08.2018 Bulletin 2018/35

(73)Proprietor: G.D S.p.A.
40133 Bologna (IT)

(72)Inventors:
  • MENGOLI, Fausto
    40037 Sasso Marconi (Bologna) (IT)
  • SARTONI, Massimo
    40139 Bologna (IT)

(74)Representative: Bianciardi, Ezio 
Bugnion S.p.A. Via di Corticella, 87
40128 Bologna
40128 Bologna (IT)


(56)References cited: : 
EP-A2- 2 708 149
DE-A1- 2 007 615
US-A- 2 988 402
CA-A- 817 682
DE-A1- 2 513 663
US-A- 3 393 591
  
      
    Note: Within nine months from the publication of the mention of the grant of the European patent, any person may give notice to the European Patent Office of opposition to the European patent granted. Notice of opposition shall be filed in a written reasoned statement. It shall not be deemed to have been filed until the opposition fee has been paid. (Art. 99(1) European Patent Convention).


    Description

    Technical field



    [0001] This invention relates to a device and a method for moving tubular bodies, made preferably of paper, paperboard, cardboard or plastic material. Preferably, such tubular bodies define a component of a smokable article, for example a cigarette, and in particular, such tubular components are assembled to portions of a cigarette filter to make composite filters.

    [0002] This invention is thus applicable in particular in the tobacco industry and, more specifically, in the construction of machines for making composite filters (filter makers or combiners) or cigarette holders.

    Background art



    [0003] Known in the prior art are systems for moving filters or pieces of "solid" filter, that is to say, cylindrical bodies made of filter material and thus defining a resistance to axial fluid flow.

    [0004] In light of this, known devices can be broadly divided into two types, both based on the use of a pneumatic action, in one case as an active component in the movement of the filter pieces and, in the other case, as a retaining component.

    [0005] In effect, a first prior art technique involves cutting the filter into a plurality of coaxial pieces, offsetting them by means of an offsetting drum and then applying suction to the filter pieces along the axial direction in such a way as to place them side by side to form an ordered sequence. Such a kind of priori art is for example known from document CA817682.

    [0006] Alternatively, the pieces are offset and positioned on suction plates which hold each piece and move it translationally.

    [0007] Disadvantageously, such methods cannot be used in the production of filters or cigarette holders and, more specifically, for the movement of the tubular elements constituting the above mentioned tubular bodies.

    [0008] In effect, the low resistance offered by the thin side walls of the tubular filter pieces would cause them to be damaged/deformed when suction is applied to them.

    [0009] Besides, the tubular shape makes suction along the axial direction totally useless.

    [0010] Alternative solutions, known for example from document US2988402, provide the use of air for pressing the filter plug against the outlet mouth of a buffering channel where the plugs are queued.

    Disclosure of the invention



    [0011] This invention therefore has for an aim to provide a device and a method for moving tubular bodies to overcome the disadvantages described above with reference to the prior art.

    [0012] More specifically, the aim of this invention is to provide a device and a method for moving tubular bodies which allow the tubular bodies to be aligned efficiently and without damaging them.

    [0013] These aims are achieved by a device for moving tubular bodies having the features of one or more of the appended claims from 1 to 13, as well as by a method for moving tubular bodies according to claims 14 and 15. More specifically, the device for moving tubular bodies, comprises feeding means for feeding a plurality of tubular pieces, each extending along a respective axis of extension, where the feeding means are configured in such a way as to provide a succession of groups of tubular pieces where each group is defined by a predetermined number of tubular pieces positioned in succession along the respective axis of extension and transversely offset therefrom, and at least one offsetting means configured to translationally move the tubular pieces of each tubular element in such a way as to dealign the respective axes of extension. According to one aspect of the invention, the translational transfer means is provided with at least one housing for containing at least one tubular piece placed therein and with blowing means operating inside the housing and configured to produce an air cushion by which the tubular piece is transferred translationally outside the housing along its respective axis of extension.

    [0014] Advantageously, thanks to this solution, moving the tubular piece is immediate and non-invasive.

    [0015] In particular, it should be noted that the term "air cushion" is used to mean that at least one surface for supporting the tubular body in the housing has a directed flow of air passing through it to eliminate friction and translationally move the tubular piece.

    [0016] More precisely, in one preferred embodiment, the blowing means comprise at least one outlet opening associated with a side wall of the housing to produce an air flow which is transverse to the tubular piece (externally thereof), thus forming the air cushion.

    [0017] Preferably, there are at least two outlet openings, located on opposite sides of the housing (and hence, of the tubular piece).

    [0018] Advantageously, therefore, the tubular piece does not touch any surface during its axial movement and thus does not risk being damaged.

    [0019] This is clearly a factor of critical importance in the sector in which the device according to this invention is applied.

    [0020] In effect, the device is preferably mounted in a machine for making smokable articles, in particular in the unit for making the composite filters, or in a machine for making tubes to be used in later stages of the process when the tubular bodies are used and where preventing damage to the product is extremely important.

    [0021] In this regard, the feeding means preferably comprise:
    • supply means for delivering a plurality of elongate tubular elements extending along a respective main axis and each having a predetermined length "L";
    • a cutting unit operatively located downstream of the supply means to receive the tubular elements in succession and configured to divide each tubular element into a plurality of tubular pieces of predetermined length "I" less than the predetermined length "L" of the tubular element and each extending along a respective axis of extension; and.
    • an offsetting means configured to translationally transfer the tubular pieces of each tubular element in such a way as to dealign the respective axes of extension to make the groups of pieces.

    Brief description of the drawings



    [0022] Further features and advantages of the invention are more apparent from the following exemplary and therefore non-limiting description of a preferred and hence non-exclusive embodiment of a device and a method for moving tubular bodies, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which:
    • Figure 1 shows a side view of a device for moving tubular bodies according to the invention;
    • Figures 2a-2c are schematic cross section views of a detail of the device of Figure 1 in three successive operating steps;
    • Figure 3 is a perspective view of a portion of the device of Figure 1 with some parts cut away to better illustrate others;
    • Figure 4 schematically illustrates a sequence of steps of the method according to the invention.

    Detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention



    [0023] With reference to the accompanying drawings, the numeral 1 denotes a device for moving tubular bodies, made preferably of paper, paperboard, cardboard or plastic material.

    [0024] Preferably, the tubular bodies define a portion of a composite filter for smokable articles, in particular cigarettes or cigarette holders.

    [0025] Thus, the movement device 1 is preferably applicable in a machine for making smokable articles and in particular, in a unit, denoted by the numeral 100 in the accompanying drawings, for making filters, cigarette holders or composite filters.

    [0026] The device 1 is thus used for moving tubular bodies, preferably made of paper, paperboard, cardboard or plastic material and having limited thickness and grammage (for example, 90/130 g, in particular 110 g)

    [0027] The device 1 comprises supply means 2 for delivering a plurality of elongate tubular elements "T" extending along a respective main axis "A" and each having a predetermined length "L".

    [0028] The tubular elements "T" have the same diameter as the bodies to be moved and, preferably, a length which is a multiple of the length of the bodies.

    [0029] Preferably, the supply means 2 comprise a conveyor belt 2a and/or a hopper 2b.

    [0030] In the embodiment illustrated, the conveyor belt 2a is movable along its operating direction in such a way as to move the tubular elements "T" transversely, that is, at right angles, to the respective main axis "A".

    [0031] The hopper 2b is preferably located immediately downstream of the conveyor belt 2a, in particular, of a free end thereof, to receive the tubular elements "T" (by gravity).

    [0032] The device 1 also comprises a cutting unit 3 operatively located downstream of the supply means 2 to receive the tubular elements "T" in succession.

    [0033] The cutting unit 3 is configured to divide each tubular element "T" into a plurality of tubular pieces "F" of predetermined length "I" and each extending along a respective axis of extension "B" (parallel to the main axis "A").

    [0034] The length "I" is smaller than the predetermined length "L" of the tubular element "T". More precisely, the length "I" of the tubular piece "F" is a submultiple of the length "L" of the tubular element "T".

    [0035] The cutting unit 3 preferably comprises a drum 3a rotatable about a respective axis of rotation (parallel to the main axis "A" of the tubular elements "T") and provided with a plurality of peripheral grooves for receiving the tubular elements "T".

    [0036] Also, cutting means 3b are provided to act on the periphery of the drum 3a, in particular at the grooves, to divide the tubular elements "T" into respective pluralities of pieces "F".

    [0037] The cutting means 3b may be of a mechanical type (cutting blades or the like) or optical (e.g. laser cutters).

    [0038] Preferably, therefore, the cutting unit 3 is configured to receive a sequence of tubular elements "T" and to deliver (after cutting) a sequence of groups of pieces "F", where each group is defined by a predetermined number of tubular pieces "F" (equal in number to the ratio between the length "L" and the length "I") aligned coaxially along the respective axes of extension "B".

    [0039] In light of this, the device 1 also comprises at least one offsetting means 4 configured to translationally transfer the tubular pieces "F" made from each tubular element "T" in such a way as to dealign the respective axes of extension "B".

    [0040] More precisely, the offsetting means 4 is configured to translationally move all, or some, of the pieces "F" of each group along a direction transverse, preferably at right angles, to the axis of extension "B".

    [0041] In the preferred embodiment, the offsetting means 4 also comprises a rotary drum 4a operatively located downstream of the cutting unit 3 and preferably tangent to the drum 3a of the cutting unit 3.

    [0042] The pieces are moved by means of flutes which are misaligned with each other (but fixed relative to one another) or using circumferentially movable grooves or pockets to dealign the pieces "F".

    [0043] In other words, in the first embodiment, the offsetting means does not actively move the pieces "F" but "picks" them with a delay one from another in such a way as to dealign them.

    [0044] Alternatively, in the second embodiment, the offsetting means 4 actively moves the pieces using specific movement means.

    [0045] It should be noted that, preferably, all or some of the devices described up to now (supply means 2, cutting unit 3 and offsetting means 4) define feeding means 5 for feeding a plurality of the tubular pieces "F" and configured to provide a sequence of groups of tubular pieces "F" defined (that is, each group is defined) by a predetermined number of tubular pieces "F" positioned in succession along their axes of extension "B" and offset transversely to that direction of extension "B".

    [0046] Operatively downstream of the offsetting unit 4, the device 1 comprises at least one translational transfer means 6 configured to move the pieces "F" along the respective axis of extension "B" to juxtapose them and define an ordered succession of pieces "F".

    [0047] This ordered succession thus extends transversely, preferably at right angles, to the axes of extension of the pieces "F" themselves, which are placed in a substantially juxtaposed parallel relationship.

    [0048] In light of this, the offsetting means 4 and the translational transfer means 6 jointly define an alignment unit 7 located operatively downstream of the cutting unit 3 and configured to translationally move the tubular pieces "F" from a first configuration, where the pieces "F" of each unit are aligned with each other along their axes of extension "B" to a second configuration, where the pieces "F" are juxtaposed with their axes of extension "B" substantially parallel.

    [0049] According to one aspect of this invention, the translational transfer means 6 is provided with at least one housing 8 for containing at least one tubular piece "F" and with blowing means 9 operating inside the housing 8.

    [0050] The blowing means 9 are configured to produce an air cushion by which the tubular piece "F" is transferred translationally outside the housing 8 along its respective axis of extension "B".

    [0051] Advantageously, thanks to this solution, moving the tubular piece "F" is immediate and non-invasive.

    [0052] In effect, that way, the tubular piece does not touch any surface during its axial movement and thus does not risk being damaged.

    [0053] Preferably, the housing 8 extends along a central axis "C" corresponding to the axis of extension "B" of the respective tubular piece "F".

    [0054] Further, the housing 8 is delimited by at least one side wall 8a placed radially to the central axis "C".

    [0055] Thus, the side wall at least partly surrounds the central axis "C", preventing the pieces "F" in the housing 8 from moving transversely to the central axis "C" (or limiting such movement).

    [0056] Also, to allow the piece "F" to come out, the housing 8 is provided with at least one opening 11. The opening 11 is thus located along the central axis "C".

    [0057] In other words, the opening 11 is defined by a transverse cross section "C" and is located at one end of the housing 8.

    [0058] In this regard, the translational transfer device 6 comprises at least one receiving zone 12, or receiving chamber 12, which can face the opening 11 to receive the tubular piece "F" translationally transferred by the blowing means 9.

    [0059] Thus, the receiving chamber 12 is adjacent to the opening 11 and extends along the central axis "C" of the housing 8 (in practice defining an extension thereof).

    [0060] Preferably, the blowing means 9 comprise at least one outlet opening 9a, 9b associated with the side wall 8a to generate an air flow transverse to the tubular piece "F", thus defining the air cushion.

    [0061] In particular, it should be noted that the blowing means 9, which (in an embodiment not illustrated) might also be a sequence of holes, are configured to blow from the at least one outlet opening 9a, 9b a flow of air "N" inclined relative to the central axis "C" of the housing 8 and having at least one component which is tangential to the central axis "C".

    [0062] In other words, the air flow "N" (at least partly defining the air cushion) is directed in the same direction as the movement of the piece "F" and is inclined to the central axis "C".

    [0063] The inclination is defined by angles β of between 5° and 75°, preferably between 15° and 45° and more preferably around 30°.

    [0064] Structurally, the blowing means 9 have at least one duct 10 leading to the at least one outlet opening 9a, 9b and having an end stretch 10a that is inclined at a predetermined angle to the central axis "C" of the housing 8. Preferably, the angle of inclination corresponds to (or coincides with) that of the air flow "N" (more precisely, determines it).

    [0065] Thus, the end stretch 10a is inclined to the central axis "C" of the housing 8 at an angle α of between 5° and 75°, preferably between 15° and 45° and still more preferably, is approximately 30°.

    [0066] In the preferred embodiment, the translational transfer means 6 comprises a rotary drum 13; the drum 13 is provided, on its periphery, with a plurality of angularly spaced flutes 13a for receiving at least one tubular piece "F" each.

    [0067] It should be noted that the flutes run parallel to an axis of rotation of the drum 13.

    [0068] The translational transfer means 6 also comprises at least one covering element 14 extending circumferentially at least partly around the drum 13 in such a way as to radially delimit each flute 13a it is facing.

    [0069] Thus, in conjunction with the covering element 14, each flute 13a defines the at least one housing 8.

    [0070] More precisely, the covering element 14 defines a portion of the side wall 8a of the housing 8 distal from the axis of rotation of the drum 13.

    [0071] It should be noted that the drum 13 is rotatable, while the covering element 14 is fixed.

    [0072] Thus, the housing is defined by a flute 13a and the respective portion of covering element 14 under which the flute 13a itself passes.

    [0073] It should be noted that, preferably and according to the embodiment illustrated, the translation transfer means 6 comprises a plurality of housings 8 (angularly) spaced from each other and each defined by one flute 13a and by a respective portion (which varies during rotation) of the covering element 14.

    [0074] In some embodiments, the rotary drum might be replaced with a translating element (for example a conveyor belt), in which case the flutes would be spaced only axially and not angularly.

    [0075] Preferably, the blowing means 9 have at least one proximal outlet opening 9a which is proximal to the axis of rotation of the drum 13 and made at each flute 13a.

    [0076] More precisely, the proximal outlet opening 9a is made on a base 15 which supports the piece "F" inside the flute 13a.

    [0077] The proximal outlet opening 9a preferably possesses the features described above in connection with a generic "outlet opening".

    [0078] Moreover, the blowing means 9 preferably have a plurality of proximal outlet openings 9a located in succession along the central axis "C" of the housing and spaced from each other.

    [0079] In the preferred embodiment, the blowing means 9 have at least one distal outlet opening 9b which is distal from the axis of rotation of the drum 13 and made at the covering element 14.

    [0080] The distal outlet opening 9b, too, preferably possesses the features described above in connection with a generic "outlet opening". Preferably, with reference for example to Figure 3, the distal outlet opening 9b is elongate in shape and extends circumferentially around the drum 13.

    [0081] In other words, the distal outlet opening 9b is defined by an elongate slot 16 running along the covering element 14 and at least partly surrounding the drum in such a way as to continue acting on the piece "F" while the drum 13 rotates.

    [0082] In this regard, it should be noted that the covering element 14 extends between a first circumferential edge 14a and a second circumferential edge 14b; the distal outlet opening 9b (that is, the slot 16) in turn extends elongately between a first end 16a, proximal to the first edge 14a, and a second end 16b, proximal to the second edge 14b.

    [0083] Thus, the distal outlet opening 9b extends in a direction inclined to a circumferential axis surrounding the drum 13.

    [0084] Moreover, the blowing means 9 preferably have a plurality of distal outlet openings 9b located in succession along the central axis "C" of the housing and spaced from each other.

    [0085] Advantageously, this guarantees uniform action for the full distance travelled by the tubular piece "F".

    [0086] Also an object of this invention is the method for moving the tubular bodies (that is, tubular pieces) which is preferably but not exclusively implemented by the device of this invention.

    [0087] The method comprises preparing at least one elongate tubular element "T" extending along a respective main axis "A" and having a predetermined length "L" and then dividing it into a plurality of coaxial tubular pieces "F" arranged in succession along the main axis "A".

    [0088] Next, or at the same time, the tubular pieces "F" are offset by translationally transferring all or some of them along a direction transverse to the main axis "A".

    [0089] Thus, the pieces "F" are moved from a first configuration, where they are aligned along the main axis "A", to a second, intermediate configuration, where they are still arranged in succession but where their respective axes "B" are dealigned.

    [0090] In light of this, the method in effect comprises translationally transferring all or some of the tubular pieces "F" along the main axis "A" so as to juxtapose them to define an ordered succession of pieces "F" extending transversely (that as at right angles) to the main axis "A".

    [0091] According to one aspect of the invention, the translational transfer step is performed by means of a blowing action on an outside face of a side wall of the tubular pieces "F" to produce an air cushion capable of translationally transferring them.

    [0092] In particular, the blowing action is oriented, that is, directed, in such a way as to impart a movement to the pieces.

    [0093] Preferably, therefore, the blowing action is performed by directing the air flow at an inclination at least partly concordant with a direction of translation of the tubular piece "F", thus making it possible to simultaneously produce the air cushion and the translational movement.

    [0094] In other words, the blown air produces both a lifting and a forward pushing action.

    [0095] The invention achieves the above mentioned aims and brings important advantages.

    [0096] In effect, the pneumatic means, which are of a type already in existence and employed in similar machines and which are used to produce an air cushion on the piece, on the one hand allow rapid, precise movement of the piece and, on the other, are simple and inexpensive to make.

    [0097] Moreover, the provision of distal outlet openings which are elongate in shape allows maximizing the forward pushing action applied to the tubular pieces and thus optimizes their movement.


    Claims

    1. A device for moving tubular bodies, comprising:

    - feeding means (5) for feeding a plurality of tubular pieces (F), each extending along a respective axis of extension (B); the feeding means (5) being configured in such a way as to provide a succession of groups of tubular pieces (F) where each group is defined by a predetermined number of tubular pieces (F) positioned in succession along the respective axis of extension (B), where the feeding means are provided with at least one offsetting means (4) configured to translationally transfer the pieces (F) in such a way as to dealign the respective axes of extension transversely to its axis of extension (B);

    - at least one translational transfer means (6) placed operatively downstream of the offsetting means (4) and configured to move the pieces (F) along the respective axis of extension (B) to juxtapose them and define an ordered succession of pieces (F) which extends transversely to the axes of extension of the pieces "F" themselves;
    characterized in that the translational transfer means (6) is provided with at least one housing (8) for containing one tubular piece (F) and with blowing means (9) operating inside the housing (8) and configured to produce an air cushion by which the tubular piece (F) is transferred translationally along its respective axis of extension (B).


     
    2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that the housing (8) extends along a central axis (C) corresponding to the axis of extension (B) of the respective tubular piece (F); the blowing means (9) comprising at least one outlet opening (9a, 9b) associated with a side wall to generate an air flow transverse to the tubular piece (F) and defining the air cushion.
     
    3. The device according to claim 2, characterized in that the blowing means (9) are configured to blow from the at least one outlet opening (9a, 9b) a flow of air (N) inclined relative to the central axis (C) of the housing (8) and having at least one component which is tangential to the central axis (C).
     
    4. The device according to claim 3, characterized in that the blowing means (9) have at least one duct (10) leading to the at least one outlet opening (9a, 9b) and having an end stretch (10a) which extends along a direction that is inclined relative to the central axis (C) of the housing (8).
     
    5. The device according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the inclination of the air flow (N) or of the end stretch (10a) relative to the central axis (C) of the housing (8) is defined by an angle between 5° and 75°, preferably between 15° and 45° and still more preferably, approximately 30°.
     
    6. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing (8) is provided with at least one receiving zone (12) for receiving the tubular piece (F) translationally transferred by the blowing means (9).
     
    7. The device according to any one of the preceding claims characterized in that the translational transfer means (6) comprises:

    - a rotary drum (13) provided, on its periphery, with a plurality of angularly spaced flutes (13a);

    - at least one covering element (14) extending circumferentially at least partly around the drum (13) in such a way as to radially delimit each flute (13a) it is facing; each flute (13a), in conjunction with the covering element (14), defining the at least one housing (8).


     
    8. The device according to claim 7, characterized in that the blowing means (9) have at least one proximal outlet opening (9a) which is proximal to an axis of rotation of the drum (13) and made at each flute (13a) of the drum (13).
     
    9. The device according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the blowing means (9) have at least one distal outlet opening (9b) which is distal from an axis of rotation of the drum (13) and made at the covering element (14).
     
    10. The device according to claim 9, characterized in that the distal outlet opening (9b) is elongate in shape and extends circumferentially around the drum (13).
     
    11. The device according to claim 10, characterized in that the covering element (14) extends between a first circumferential edge (14a) and a second circumferential edge (14b), where the distal outlet opening (9b) extends elongately between a first end (16a), proximal to the first edge (14a), and a second end (16b), proximal to the second edge (14b).
     
    12. The device according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the covering element (14) has a plurality of distal outlet openings (9b) which are spaced from each other and positioned in succession along the circumferential direction so as to guarantee a uniform action along the entire movement path of the tubular piece (F).
     
    13. The device according to any one of the preceding claims characterized in that the feeding means (5), operatively upstream of the offsetting means (4), comprise:

    - supply means (2) for delivering a plurality of elongate tubular elements (T) extending along a respective main axis (A) and each having a predetermined length "L";

    - a cutting unit (3) operatively located downstream of the supply means (2) to receive the tubular elements (T) in succession and configured to divide each tubular element (T) into a plurality of tubular pieces (F) of predetermined length "I" less than the predetermined length "L" of the tubular element (T) and each extending along a respective axis of extension (B).


     
    14. A method for moving tubular bodies, made preferably of paper, cardboard or plastic material, comprising the steps of:

    - preparing at least one elongate tubular element (T) extending along a respective main axis (A) and having a predetermined length "L";

    - dividing the at least one tubular element (T) into a plurality of tubular pieces (F) positioned coaxially in succession along the main axis (A);

    - offsetting the tubular pieces (F) by translationally transferring all or some of them along a direction transverse to the main axis (A);

    - translationally transferring all or some of the tubular pieces (F) along the main axis (A) so as to juxtapose them to define an ordered succession of pieces (F) extending transversely to the main axis (A);
    characterized in that the translational transfer step is performed by means of a blowing action on an outside face (18) of a side wall of the tubular pieces (F) to produce an air cushion capable of translationally transferring them.


     
    15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that the blowing action is performed by directing the air flow (N) at an inclination at least partly concordant with a direction of translation of the tubular piece (F).
     


    Ansprüche

    1. Vorrichtung zum Bewegen von rohrförmigen Körpern, umfassend:

    - Zuführmittel (5) zum Zuführen einer Vielzahl an rohrförmigen Stücken (F), wobei ein jedes sich entlang einer jeweiligen Erstreckungsachse (B) erstreckt; wobei die Zuführmittel (5) konfiguriert sind, so dass eine Reihenfolge von Gruppen von rohrförmigen Stücken (F) bereitstellt wird, wobei eine jede Gruppe durch eine vorbestimmte Anzahl von rohrförmigen Stücken (F) definiert ist, die nacheinander entlang der jeweiligen Erstreckungsachse (B) positioniert sind, wo die Zuführmittel mit mindestens einem Versatzmittel (4) versehen sind, das konfiguriert ist, um die Stücke (F) translatorisch zu übertragen, so dass die jeweiligen Erstreckungsachsen quer zu ihrer Erstreckungsachse (B) dejustiert werden;

    - mindestens ein translatorisches Übertragungsmittel (6), das betriebswirksam stromabwärts des Versatzmittels (4) angeordnet ist und konfiguriert ist, um die Stücke (F) entlang der jeweiligen Erstreckungsachse (B) zu bewegen, um sie nebeneinander zu stellen und eine geordnete Reihenfolge von Stücken (F) zu definieren, die sich quer zu den Erstreckungsachsen der Stücke "F" selbst erstreckt;
    dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das translatorische Übertragungsmittel (6) mit mindestens einem Gehäuse (8) zum Enthalten eines rohrförmigen Stücks (F) und mit Blasmitteln (9) versehen ist, die innerhalb des Gehäuses (8) arbeiten und konfiguriert sind, um ein Luftkissen zu erzeugen, durch das das rohrförmige Stück (F) entlang seiner jeweiligen Erstreckungsachse (B) translatorisch übertragen wird.


     
    2. Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass sich das Gehäuse (8) entlang einer Mittelachse (C) erstreckt, die der Erstreckungsachse (B) des jeweiligen rohrförmigen Stücks (F) entspricht; wobei die Blasmittel (9) mindestens eine Auslassöffnung (9a, 9b) umfassen, die mit einer Seitenwand assoziiert ist, um einen Luftstrom quer zum rohrförmigen Stück (F) zu erzeugen und das Luftkissen zu definieren.
     
    3. Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Blasmittel (9) konfiguriert sind, so dass sie aus der mindestens einen Auslassöffnung (9a, 9b) einen Luftstrom (N) blasen, der relativ zur Mittelachse (C) des Gehäuses (8) geneigt ist und aufweisend mindestens eine Komponente, die tangential zur Mittelachse (C) ist.
     
    4. Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Blasmittel (9) mindestens einen Kanal (10) aufweisen, der zu der mindestens einen Auslassöffnung (9a, 9b) führt und aufweisend ein Endteilstück (10a), das sich entlang einer Richtung erstreckt, die relativ zur Mittelachse (C) des Gehäuses (8) geneigt ist.
     
    5. Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 3 oder 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Neigung des Luftstroms (N) oder des Endteilstücks (10a) relativ zur Mittelachse (C) des Gehäuses (8) durch einen Winkel zwischen 5° und 75°, vorzugsweise zwischen 15° und 45° und noch bevorzugter ungefähr 30° definiert ist.
     
    6. Vorrichtung nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Gehäuse (8) mit mindestens einer Aufnahmezone (12) zum Aufnehmen des durch die Blasmittel (9) translatorisch übertragenen rohrförmigen Stücks (F) versehen ist.
     
    7. Vorrichtung nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das translatorische Übertragungsmittel (6) umfasst:

    - eine Drehtrommel (13), die an deren Umfang mit einer Vielzahl an winkelmäßig beabstandeten Nuten (13a) versehen ist;

    - mindestens ein Abdeckelement (14), das sich in Umfangsrichtung mindestens teilweise um die Trommel (13) herum erstreckt, so dass eine jede Nut (13a), der sie zugewandt ist, radial begrenzt wird; wobei eine jede Nut (13a) in Verbindung mit dem Abdeckelement (14) das mindestens eine Gehäuse (8) definiert.


     
    8. Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 7, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Blasmittel (9) mindestens eine proximale Auslassöffnung (9a) aufweisen, die proximal zu einer Drehachse der Trommel (13) liegt und an jeder Nut (13a) der Trommel (13) ausgebildet ist.
     
    9. Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 7 oder 8, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Blasmittel (9) mindestens eine distale Auslassöffnung (9b) aufweisen, die distal von einer Drehachse der Trommel (13) liegt und am Abdeckelement (14) ausgebildet ist.
     
    10. Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 9, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die distale Auslassöffnung (9b) eine längliche Form aufweist und sich in Umfangsrichtung um die Trommel (13) herum erstreckt.
     
    11. Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 10, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass sich das Abdeckelement (14) zwischen einer ersten Umfangskante (14a) und einer zweiten Umfangskante (14b) erstreckt, wobei sich die distale Auslassöffnung (9b) zwischen einem ersten Ende (16a), proximal zur ersten Kante (14a), und ein zweites Ende (16b), proximal zur zweiten Kante (14b) länglich erstreckt.
     
    12. Vorrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 9 bis 11, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Abdeckelement (14) eine Vielzahl an distalen Auslassöffnungen (9b) aufweist, die voneinander beabstandet und nacheinander entlang der Umfangsrichtung positioniert sind, um eine gleichmäßige Wirkung entlang des gesamten Bewegungsweges des rohrförmigen Stücks (F) zu gewährleisten.
     
    13. Vorrichtung nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Zuführmittel (5), die betriebswirksam stromaufwärts des Versatzmittels (4) liegen, umfassen:

    - Versorgungsmittel (2) zum Liefern einer Vielzahl an länglichen rohrförmigen Elementen (T), die sich entlang einer jeweiligen Hauptachse (A) erstrecken und jeweils eine vorbestimmte Länge "L" aufweisen;

    - eine Schneideinheit (3), die betriebswirksam stromabwärts der Versorgungsmittel (2) angeordnet ist, um die rohrförmigen Elemente (T) nacheinander aufzunehmen und die konfiguriert ist, um ein jedes rohrförmige Element (T) in eine Vielzahl an rohrförmigen Stücken (F) mit vorbestimmter Länge "I" kleiner als die vorbestimmte Länge "L" des rohrförmigen Elements (T) zu teilen und wobei sich ein jedes entlang einer jeweiligen Erstreckungsachse (B) erstreckt.


     
    14. Verfahren zum Bewegen von rohrförmigen Körpern, hergestellt vorzugsweise aus Papier, Pappe oder Kunststoffmaterial, umfassend die Schritte:

    - Vorbereiten mindestens eines länglichen rohrförmigen Elements (T), das sich entlang einer jeweiligen Hauptachse (A) erstreckt und eine vorbestimmte Länge "L" aufweist;

    - Teilen des mindestens einen rohrförmigen Elements (T) in eine Vielzahl an rohrförmigen Stücken (F), die koaxial nacheinander entlang der Hauptachse (A) angeordnet sind;

    - Versetzen der rohrförmigen Stücke (F) durch translatorische Übertragung aller oder einiger von ihnen entlang einer Richtung quer zur Hauptachse (A);

    - translatorisches Übertragen aller oder einiger rohrförmiger Stücke (F) entlang der Hauptachse (A), um sie nebeneinander zu stellen, um eine geordnete Reihenfolge von Stücken (F) zu definieren, die sich quer zur Hauptachse (A) erstrecken;
    dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Schritt zur translatorischen Übertragung mittels einer Blaswirkung auf eine Außenfläche (18) einer Seitenwand der rohrförmigen Stücke (F) durchgeführt wird, um ein Luftkissen zu erzeugen, das in der Lage ist, diese translatorisch zu übertragen.


     
    15. Verfahren nach Anspruch 14, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Blaswirkung durchgeführt wird, indem der Luftstrom (N) auf eine Neigung gerichtet wird, die zumindest teilweise mit einer Translationsrichtung des rohrförmigen Stücks (F) übereinstimmt.
     


    Revendications

    1. Dispositif permettant de déplacer des corps tubulaires, comprenant :

    - des moyens d'alimentation (5) servant à alimenter une pluralité de pièces tubulaires (F), chacune se prolongeant le long d'un axe d'extension (B) respectif ; les moyens d'alimentation (5) étant configurés de manière à fournir une succession de groupes de pièces tubulaires (F) où chaque groupe est défini par un nombre prédéterminé de pièces tubulaires (F) positionnées en succession le long de l'axe d'extension (B) respectif, où les moyens d'alimentation sont pourvus d'au moins un moyen de décalage (4) configuré pour transférer en translation les pièces (F) de manière à désaligner les axes respectifs d'extension transversalement à son axe d'extension (B) ;

    - au moins un moyen de transfert (6) en translation placé de façon fonctionnelle en aval du moyen de décalage (4) et configuré pour déplacer les pièces (F) le long de l'axe respectif d'extension (B) pour les juxtaposer et définir une succession ordonnée de pièces (F) se prolongeant transversalement aux axes d'extension des pièces « F » elles-mêmes ;
    caractérisé en ce que le moyen de transfert (6) en translation est pourvu d'au moins un logement (8) servant à contenir une pièce tubulaire (F) et des moyens de soufflage (9) fonctionnant à l'intérieur du logement (8) et configurés pour produire un coussin d'air par lequel la pièce tubulaire (F) est transférée en translation le long de son axe respectif d'extension (B).


     
    2. Dispositif selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que le logement (8) se prolonge le long d'un axe central (C) correspondant à l'axe d'extension (B) de la pièce tubulaire (F) respective ; les moyens de soufflage (9) comprenant au moins une ouverture de sortie (9a, 9b) associée à une paroi latérale pour générer un flux d'air transversal à la pièce tubulaire (F) et définissant le coussin d'air.
     
    3. Dispositif selon la revendication 2, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de soufflage (9) sont configurés pour souffler à partir de l'au moins une ouverture de sortie (9a, 9b) un flux d'air (N) incliné par rapport à l'axe central (C) du logement (8) et comportant au moins un composant étant tangentiel à l'axe central (C).
     
    4. Dispositif selon la revendication 3, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de soufflage (9) comportent au moins un conduit (10) conduisant à l'au moins une ouverture de sortie (9a, 9b) et comportant une portion d'extrémité (10a) se prolongeant le long d'une direction étant inclinée par rapport à l'axe central (C) du logement (8) .
     
    5. Dispositif selon la revendication 3 ou 4, caractérisé en ce que l'inclinaison du flux d'air (N) ou de la portion d'extrémité (10a) par rapport à l'axe central (C) du logement (8) est définie selon un angle compris entre 5 et 75°, de préférence entre 15 et 45° et encore plus préférablement, approximativement de 30°.
     
    6. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le logement (8) est pourvu d'au moins une zone de réception (12) servant à recevoir la pièce tubulaire (F) transférée en translation par les moyens de soufflage (9).
     
    7. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le moyen de transfert (6) en translation comprend :

    - un tambour rotatif (13) pourvu, sur sa périphérie, d'une pluralité de cannelures (13a) espacées angulairement ;

    - au moins un élément de recouvrement (14) se prolongeant sur la circonférence au moins partiellement autour du tambour (13) de manière à délimiter radialement chaque cannelure (13a) à laquelle il fait face ; chaque cannelure (13a), conjointement avec l'élément de recouvrement (14), définissant l'au moins un logement (8) .


     
    8. Dispositif selon la revendication 7, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de soufflage (9) comportent au moins une ouverture de sortie (9a) proximale étant proximale à un axe de rotation du tambour (13) et réalisée en correspondance de chaque cannelure (13a) du tambour (13) .
     
    9. Dispositif selon la revendication 7 ou 8, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de soufflage (9) comportent au moins une ouverture de sortie (9b) distale étant distale d'un axe de rotation du tambour (13) et réalisée en correspondance de l'élément de recouvrement (14).
     
    10. Dispositif selon la revendication 9, caractérisé en ce que l'ouverture de sortie (9b) distale est de forme allongée et se prolonge sur la circonférence autour du tambour (13).
     
    11. Dispositif selon la revendication 10, caractérisé en ce que l'élément de recouvrement (14) se prolonge entre un premier bord circonférentiel (14a) et un second bord circonférentiel (14b), où l'ouverture de sortie (9b) distale se prolonge de manière allongée entre une première extrémité (16a), proximale au premier bord (14a), et une seconde extrémité (16b) proximale au second bord (14b).
     
    12. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications 9 à 11, caractérisé en ce que l'élément de recouvrement (14) comporte une pluralité d'ouvertures de sortie (9b) distales étant espacées les unes des autres et positionnées en succession le long de la direction circonférentielle de manière à garantir une action uniforme le long de toute la trajectoire de déplacement de la pièce tubulaire (F).
     
    13. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que les moyens d'alimentation (5), fonctionnant en amont du moyen de décalage (4), comprennent :

    - des moyens de fourniture (2) servant à distribuer une pluralité d'éléments tubulaires (T) allongés se prolongeant le long d'un axe principal (A) respectif et ayant chacun une longueur prédéterminée « L » ;

    - une unité de coupe (3) située fonctionnellement en aval des moyens de fourniture (2) servant à recevoir les éléments tubulaires (T) en succession et configurée pour diviser chaque élément tubulaire (T) en une pluralité de pièces tubulaires (F) de longueur prédéterminée « I » inférieure à la longueur prédéterminée « L » de l'élément tubulaire (T) et se prolongeant chacune le long d'un axe respectif d'extension (B).


     
    14. Procédé permettant de déplacer des corps tubulaires, de préférence en papier, en carton ou en matière plastique, comprenant les étapes de :

    - préparer au moins un élément tubulaire (T) allongé se prolongeant le long d'un axe principal (A) respectif et ayant une longueur prédéterminée « L » ;

    - diviser l'au moins un élément tubulaire (T) en une pluralité de pièces tubulaires (F) positionnées coaxialement en succession le long de l'axe principal (A) ;

    - décaler les pièces tubulaires (F) en transférant en translation tout ou partie d'entre elles le long d'une direction transversale à l'axe principal (A) ;

    - transférer en translation tout ou partie des pièces tubulaires (F) le long de l'axe principal (A) de manière à les juxtaposer pour définir une succession ordonnée de pièces (F) se prolongeant transversalement à l'axe principal (A) ;
    caractérisé en ce que l'étape de transfert en translation est effectuée au moyen d'une action de soufflage sur une face extérieure (18) d'une paroi latérale des pièces tubulaires (F) pour produire un coussin d'air capable de les transférer en translation.


     
    15. Procédé selon la revendication 14, caractérisé en ce que l'action de soufflage est effectuée en dirigeant le flux d'air (N) selon une inclinaison au moins partiellement concordante avec une direction de translation de la pièce tubulaire (F).
     




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    Cited references

    REFERENCES CITED IN THE DESCRIPTION



    This list of references cited by the applicant is for the reader's convenience only. It does not form part of the European patent document. Even though great care has been taken in compiling the references, errors or omissions cannot be excluded and the EPO disclaims all liability in this regard.

    Patent documents cited in the description