Field of application
[0001] The present invention relates to a sealing apparatus comprising a sealing machine,
in turn including at least one application head adapted to apply a seal around a wrapper
of a product, and a conveyor belt adapted to move the wrapper towards the sealing
machine. The present invention also relates to a method for sealing a wrapper.
[0002] More in particular, the present invention describes the application of a seal around
a wrapper containing a product to be identified and to be isolated from the external
environment, for example a food product, and the following description is made with
reference to this application field with the only purpose of simplifying the exposition.
Prior art
[0003] As it is well known in this specific technical field, a seal is a means for closing
a wrapper, which contains for example a food product, as well as means for identifying
the product contained in the wrapper.
[0004] The application of a seal around a wrapper is of fundamental importance in the food
field, where the seal has the purpose, on the one hand, of isolating the contents
of the wrapper from the external environment and, on the other hand, of displaying
the trademark associated with the packaged product and information about the composition
or the organoleptic properties of the product, as well as characteristics such as
the production date and the production batch.
[0005] There are sealing machines able to apply a seal, which is suitably shaped, around
a wrapper by folding and fixing a flap of the seal around the neck of the wrapper,
the fixing operation being performed for example by means of ultrasonic welding.
[0006] Generally, the sealing is performed by means of a manual process, where an operator
positions the wrapper, possibly after forming a portion with a smaller cross-section
in the region of the neck thereof, in an application head of the sealing machine,
in particular he inserts the portion with a smaller cross-section inside a suitable
opening of the sealing machine so as to obtain the application of the seal. This operation
is obviously limited, in terms of the time needed for execution thereof, by the skill
of the operator.
[0007] Therefore, there is the need in the field for a suitable apparatus that comprises
a sealing machine and allows a seal to be applied to a wrapper in automatic manner,
thus optimizing the speed of this operation, its uniformity and the production costs
of the end product. It is also pointed out that this need also exists in other fields
in addition to the food field, such as the medical field or the cosmetics field.
[0008] In particular, there is the need for a versatile apparatus which is able to automatically
apply seals to a wrapper which is already closed, as well as to an open wrapper which
must be closed before sealing.
[0009] GB 1 516 498 discloses an apparatus able to automatically insert food in a wrapper and to close
such wrapper, sucking air within the wrapper.
[0011] The technical problem of the present invention is to provide a sealing apparatus
having structural and functional features such as to allow overcoming the limitations
and drawbacks still affecting the known solutions, in particular an apparatus which
is able to convey a wrapper to be sealed towards a sealing machine, applying in an
automatic and efficient manner a seal around the wrapper by means of that sealing
machine.
Summary of the invention
[0012] The solution idea at the basis of the present invention is to provide a sealing apparatus
wherein a wrapper containing a product, suitably arranged on a conveyor belt, is positioned
in a preset position of the apparatus, as well as prepared for sealing, via suitable
means, and then is picked up from that preset position and transported towards the
application head of a sealing machine for the automatic application of a seal to that
wrapper.
[0013] Based on this solution idea, the aforementioned technical problem is primarily solved
by a sealing apparatus comprising a sealing machine, in turn including an application
head adapted to apply a seal around a wrapper of a product, and a conveyor belt adapted
to move the wrapper towards the sealing machine, such an apparatus being characterized
in that it comprises positioning means including at least one actuator adapted to
position a sealing portion of the wrapper at a pick-up region of the apparatus, as
well as movement means adapted to transport the wrapper from the pick-up region towards
the application head of the sealing machine for applying the seal around the sealing
portion of that wrapper and said at least one actuator is in the form of rotating
suction means comprising a body and at least one rotating end portion at an end of
the body, said rotating end portion being adapted to be inserted inside said wrapper
and to suction air therein, said rotating suction means defining said sealing portion
of said wrapper by means of a rotation of said rotating end portion, said rotating
suction means holding said sealing portion of said wrapper at said pick-up region,
and wherein said rotating end portion comprises suction holes that are arranged radially
with respect to the longitudinal axis of the body of said rotating suction means.
[0014] More particularly, the invention comprises the following additional characteristics,
taken individually or in combination if required.
[0015] According to one aspect of the present invention, the at least one actuator may be
a gripper operable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, the sealing
portion of the wrapper being held by the gripper in such a closed position at the
pick-up region.
[0016] In this case, the positioning means may further comprise opening means for keeping
an opening of the wrapper in an open condition, allowing the entry of the rotating
suction means inside the wrapper.
[0017] In particular, the opening means may comprise a first portion, which is fixed, and
a second portion, which is movable towards and away from the first portion, surfaces
facing each other of said first and second portions being provided with a plurality
of air suction holes for keeping the opening of the wrapper in the open condition.
[0018] According to an aspect of the present invention, the positioning means may comprise
a support structure of the at least one actuator, such a support structure being movable
between a first position, where the actuator is spaced from the wrapper, and a second
position, where the actuator acts on the wrapper.
[0019] According to another aspect of the present invention, the movement means may comprise
at least one gripper adapted to pick up the wrapper from the pick-up region and to
move that wrapper towards the application head of the sealing machine, the at least
one gripper being moved by a chain.
[0020] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the positioning means and
the movement means may be synchronized with each other and may be synchronized with
the movement of the conveyor belt.
[0021] It should also be noted that the sealing machine may be adapted to apply a seal having
a flap to be folded and a plate including a display portion displaying information
about the product inside the wrapper, wherein the application head comprises means
for folding the flap of the seal around the wrapper and fixing that flap by means
of fixing means, the sealing machine further comprising printing means adapted to
print data on the display portion of the seal, those fixing means being selected from
an ultrasonic welder, a punching machine or gluing means.
[0022] Specifically, the seal can be made of a plastic material.
[0023] Furthermore, the apparatus of the present invention may further comprise a plurality
of sensors, which are connected to a central unit, for managing and controlling that
apparatus, which is in turn connected to monitoring and control remote systems via
suitable communication means, the signals of at least some of those sensors being
sent to those remote systems via those communication means, those remote systems controlling
the apparatus on the basis of the signals of the sensors.
[0024] The present invention also relates to a method for sealing a wrapper according to
the appended claim 10.
[0025] According to an aspect of the present invention, the positioning step can comprise
a step of moving a gripper from an open position to a closed position so as to form
and/or hold the sealing portion of the wrapper at the pick-up region.
[0026] In particular, the insertion step may be preceded by a step of keeping an opening
of the wrapper in an open condition by means of opening means, allowing the entry
of the rotating suction means into that wrapper.
[0027] Finally, the positioning step and the sealing step may be performed simultaneously
for at least two different wrappers arranged on the conveyor belt.
[0028] The features and advantages of the sealing apparatus and method according to the
invention will become apparent from the following description of an embodiment thereof,
given by way of non-limiting example with reference to the accompanying drawings.
Brief description of the drawings
[0029] In those drawings:
- Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a sealing apparatus according to the present
invention;
- Figure 2 shows a detail of the apparatus of Figure 1;
- Figure 3 shows a front view of a detail of a sealing apparatus according to an embodiment
of the present invention;
- Figures 4A and 4B show different views of positioning means of the sealing apparatus
of Figure 3;
- Figure 5 shows movement means of the sealing apparatus of the present invention;
- Figures 6A and 6B show a perspective view of a detail of a sealing apparatus according
to an alternative embodiment of the present invention;
- Figure 7 shows another perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 6;
- Figure 8 shows opening means of a wrapper according to an embodiment of the present
invention; and
- Figure 9 shows a side view of a sealing apparatus according to a further embodiment
of the present invention.
Detailed description
[0030] With reference to those figures, and in particular to the example of Figure 1, a
sealing apparatus manufactured according to the present invention is globally and
schematically indicated with 1.
[0031] It is worth noting that the figures represent schematic views and are not drawn to
scale, but instead they are drawn so as to emphasize the important features of the
invention. Moreover, in the figures, the different components are depicted in a schematic
manner, their shape varying depending on the application desired. It is also noted
that, in the figures, the same reference numbers refer to elements that are identical
in shape or function. Finally, particular features described in relation to an embodiment
shown in one figure may also be used for the other embodiments shown in the other
figures.
[0032] The sealing apparatus 1 according to the present invention is preferably used for
the packaging of food products, in particular by applying a seal to a wrapper thereof.
By way of a non-limiting example of the present invention, the apparatus 1 may be
used for sealing bags containing mozzarella cheese or fresh poultry, but it is not
limited to these products. It is emphasized that the apparatus 1 may be used for sealing
also other types of food products, as well as other types of products, i.e. not necessarily
food products. Still by way of a non-limiting example, the apparatus 1 may be used
also for the packaging of medical and cosmetic products. It should therefore be understood
that the examples illustrated in the following description are merely of illustrative
nature and do not limit in any way the scope of the present invention.
[0033] As shown in Figure 1, the apparatus 1 comprises a sealing machine 2, adapted to apply
a seal to a wrapper 3 containing a product, for example a food product (but, as already
mentioned, not limited thereto). In the present description, the term "wrapper" means
any type of covering for containing a product, such as a bag, generally provided with
an opening through which the product is inserted, whereby the form and the material
of that wrapper may vary depending on the needs and/or the circumstances.
[0034] The sealing machine 2 is suitably arranged on a support frame 4 which supports it.
The support frame 4 is shaped so that the sealing machine 2 is suitably interfaced
with the other components of the apparatus 1, as it will be shown in greater detail
below. As shown in Figure 1, once arranged on the support frame 4, the sealing machine
2 is tilted relative to the vertical axis (understood as being orthogonal to a plane,
such as the ground, on which the support frame 4 is placed), even though other configurations
are obviously possible, the figures being provided only by way of a non-limiting example
of the scope of the present invention. In general, the sealing machine 2 is arranged
on the support frame 4 in a position in each case appropriate for correct sealing.
[0035] The apparatus 1 also comprises a conveyor belt 5 for moving the wrapper 3 towards
the sealing machine 2. The conveyor belt 5 is arranged parallel to a plane, such as
the ground, on which the support frame 4 is placed. The conveyor belt 5 is provided
in particular with a plurality of flights 5a which are equally spaced from each other
and which define well defined sectors S on the conveyor belt 5. According to the present
invention, in order to adapt the size of the sector S defined by the flights 5a to
that of the wrapper 3 arranged on it, each flight 5a comprises a suitable extendable
portion 5b, fitted on it, for varying the dimensions of that sector S, whereby the
extendable portion 5b may be for example a resilient reducer plate. Consequently,
the extension of the sector S is in each case suitably modified by means of the extendable
portion 5b of the flights 5a depending on the form and the dimensions of the wrapper
3 so as to retain it in the best possible manner.
[0036] The wrapper 3, which contains a given product, is then arranged on the conveyor belt
5 and transported by it towards the sealing machine 2 for the application of the seal
around it. It should be noted that, for the correct operation of the apparatus 1,
the wrappers 3 are arranged on the conveyor belt 5 always with the same orientation,
namely with their openings all arranged on the same side of the conveyor belt 5.
[0037] Preferably, the seal to be applied to the wrapper 3 is made of a plastic material
and is suitably shaped so as to have a plate including a display portion displaying
various information about the product contained inside the wrapper 3, by way of guarantee
of the product enclosed therein, and a flap to be folded and fixed to the plate.
[0038] As shown in greater detail in Figure 2, the sealing machine 2 includes an application
head 2a for applying and fixing the seal around the wrapper 3. In particular, the
application head 2a comprises an opening F (for example a slot), inside which a sealing
portion of the wrapper 3, namely a portion of the wrapper 3 having a reduced cross-section,
is inserted, as it will be explained in greater detail further below.
[0039] By way of a non-limiting example of the present invention, the sealing machine 2
can comprise a feeding system (not shown) dragging single seals (or alternatively
a continuous strip from which the single seals are shaped) towards a printing unit
(also not shown) and, then, towards the application head 2a. The seals have preferably
at least one face intended to receive, printed thereon in the printing unit, printed
information relating to the product contained inside the wrapper 3, such as the production
batch, the expiry date and the like. The information to be printed may be entered
via a suitable user interface, such as a touch screen. Once the information has been
printed on the face intended for this purpose, the seals are fed towards the application
head 2a for applying them around the wrapper 3. For this purpose, the application
head 2a in turn comprises means for folding the flap of the seal and means for fixing
the folded flap around the wrapper 3 to be sealed.
[0040] The fixing means of the sealing machine 2 are preferably selected from an ultrasonic
welder, a punching machine or gluing means, but are not limited to these, the present
invention envisaging any suitable type of fixing means.
[0041] Since the characteristic features of the seal and of the sealing machine 2 are known
in the field, these components are not shown in detail in the accompanying drawings
and will not be further described in the present description.
[0042] Advantageously according to the present invention, in order to apply in an automatic,
precise and efficient manner the seal around the wrapper 3, the apparatus 1 comprises
suitable positioning means 6 for positioning the wrapper 3 arranged on the conveyor
belt 5, these positioning means 6 being adapted to position and keep the wrapper 3
in a preset position, which is indicated in the present specification as pick-up region
P of the apparatus 1, as shown in greater detail in Figure 3.
[0043] In particular, the positioning means 6 are apt to position a specific portion of
the wrapper 3, called hereinbelow sealing portion, at the pick-up region P, such that
this sealing portion can be easily inserted into the slot F of the application head
2a of the sealing machine 2 by means of suitable movement means, as will be illustrated
further below.
[0044] In the present description, the term "sealing portion" means the portion of the wrapper
3 apt to be inserted inside the slot F of the application head 2a of the sealing machine
2, such a sealing portion having generally a smaller cross-section than the rest of
the wrapper 3 so that it can be easily inserted inside the slot F of said application
head 2a. In other words, the sealing portion is the portion of the wrapper 3 around
which the seal is wound.
[0045] The positioning means 6 are therefore adapted to position and keep the wrapper 3
in a preset position of the apparatus 1, thus allowing it to be subsequently sealed,
this action being performed by suitable actuators included in those positioning means
6, as it will be described in detail below.
[0046] In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the positioning means 6 are arranged on one
side of the conveyor belt 5, and the pick-up region P, in which the wrapper 3 is positioned
and held, is also defined on that side of the conveyor belt 5.
[0047] In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the pick-up region P is located in a region
of the apparatus 1 projecting from the conveyor belt 5, even though other configurations
are obviously possible, the figures being provided merely by way of a non-limiting
example of the scope of the present invention.
[0048] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, shown in greater detail in Figures
4A and 4B, the actuator performing the positioning and the holding of the wrapper
3 is a gripper 7, which may be in an open configuration, in which the ends of its
levers are at a maximum distance from each other, or in a closed configuration, in
which the ends of its levers are at a minimum distance from each other. In this way,
by switching from the open configuration to the closed configuration, the gripper
7 is adapted to position and keep the wrapper 3, in particular the sealing portion
thereof, at the pick-up region P of the apparatus 1.
[0049] The gripper 7 is supported by suitable support means 8 which are movable between
a first position, or rest position, where the gripper 7 is arranged at a higher position
than the plane in which the conveyor belt 5 lies, and a second position, or operating
position, where the gripper 7 is arranged in the vicinity of the wrapper 3. In other
words, the rest position is a position where the actuator of the positioning means
6 is situated at a predetermined distance from the wrapper 3, while the operating
position is a position where the actuator acts on the wrapper 3.
[0050] In this way, preferably, the gripper 7 is kept in the open configuration when the
support means 8 are in the rest position, while it is driven into the closed configuration
when the support means 8 are operated in the operating position, in order to position
and keep the wrapper 3 at the pick-up region P. Consequently, when the wrapper 3 is
in the pick-up region P, the support means 8 are operated so as to move the actuator
(in this case the gripper 7) closer to the wrapper 3 so that it can engage the wrapper
3 (in this case by switching from the open configuration to the closed configuration).
[0051] Conveniently, the gripper 7, when passing from the open configuration into the closed
configuration, can also form the sealing portion with smaller cross-section in the
wrapper 3 simultaneously to the positioning and holding of that sealing portion in
the pick-up region P. In the case where the wrapper 3 is instead positioned on the
conveyor belt 5 with the sealing portion with smaller cross-section already formed
(as for example in the case of a wrapper containing mozzarella cheese), the gripper
7 is only adapted to position and hold the wrapper 3, in particular its reduced portion,
in the preset pick-up region P.
[0052] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the gripper 7 is driven between
the open configuration and the closed configuration, and vice versa, by means of a
cam profile (not shown in the figures) which is integrated in the support means 8
and which moves together with the movement of the support means 8, even though other
solutions are obviously possible. For example, the gripper 7 may be operated by means
of suitable electrically driven motor means, or the cam profile may be replaced by
a connecting link or by any other suitable means, having a different shape and being
of a different type depending on the circumstances and/or the needs.
[0053] In other words, when the wrapper 3 is at the pick-up region P, the positioning means
6 are operated and the gripper 7 (i.e. the actuator) is moved, for example from the
top downwards, so as to close itself around the sealing portion of the wrapper 3.
[0054] Conveniently, according to the present invention, the wrapper 3, after being positioned
and retained by the positioning means 6 at the pick-up region P, is picked up at this
pick-up region P by movement means 10 included in the apparatus 1.
[0055] The movement means 10, which are shown in detail in Figure 5, comprise at least one
further gripper 11 adapted to pick-up the wrapper 3, in particular at its sealing
portion, such a gripper 11 being moved by a chain 12, even if the present invention
is not limited thereto and the gripper 11 can be moved in any other suitable manner.
[0056] Figure 5 shows a preferred embodiment of the present invention, in which the movement
means 10 comprise two grippers 11, even though other embodiments are obviously possible,
for example the grippers 11 may be more than two, depending on the required sealing
speed.
[0057] Essentially, the movement means 10 are structured so that, during their movement,
the gripper 11 passes through the pick-up region P in order to pick up the wrapper
3 and transport it towards the application head 2a of the sealing machine 2.
[0058] The combination of the positioning means 6 and the movement means 10 according to
the present invention is particularly advantageous since, as pointed out above, the
positioning means 6 move the wrapper 3 in a preset position of the apparatus 1 and
prepare the wrapper 3 for sealing, in such a way that they allow the movement means
10 to pick up the wrapper 3, which is situated with certainty in this preset position
known to the movement means 10, and to transport it towards the sealing machine 2.
It should be noted that, if the positioning means 6 are not present, the movement
means 10 would no longer be able to pick up the wrapper 3, which would be arranged
in a random manner on the conveyor belt 5.
[0059] Conveniently, the positioning means 6 and the movement means 10 are synchronized
with each other and are synchronized with the movement of the conveyor belt 5, as
it will be explained in greater detail further below.
[0060] In the case where the wrapper 3 is arranged open on the conveyor belt 5, it is also
desirable to perform a first closure thereof before sealing. For this purpose, according
to an alternative embodiment of the present invention shown in Figures 6A and 6B,
the actuator of the positioning means 6 is a rotating suction means 13, which is apt
to be inserted inside an opening of the wrapper 3 and to suction air from that wrapper
3, creating the vacuum therein.
[0061] In particular, as shown in detail in Figure 6A, the rotating suction means 13 includes
a body 13a, preferably in the form of a tubular element, which extends longitudinally
between a first end portion fixed to a support structure 14 and a second end portion,
in particular a rotating end portion 13b, which is provided with a plurality of suction
holes and is able to perform a rotational movement. The tubular element 13a, and in
particular its rotating end portion 13a, is positioned inside the wrapper 3 and suctions
air inside this wrapper 3.
[0062] It should also be observed that the suction holes of the rotating end portion 13b
are arranged radially with respect to the longitudinal axis of the body 13a of the
rotating suction means 13.
[0063] In this way, the suction by the rotating end portion 13b causes adhesion of a part
of the wrapper 3 thereto and, at the same time, its rotation defines the sealing portion
in the wrapper 3. In fact, the rotation of the rotating end portion 13b, while a part
of the wrapper 3 adheres thereto, results in the formation of a twisted portion with
a smaller cross-section in the wrapper 3, such a portion acting as sealing portion
of the wrapper 3.
[0064] At the end of the rotation of the rotating end portion 13b of the rotating suction
means 13, namely at the end of the formation of the sealing portion of the wrapper
3, the suction of air via the holes of the rotating end portion 13b ceases and, at
the same time, the rotating end portion 13b is extracted from the inside of the wrapper
3. At this point, the movement means 10 are activated for transporting the wrapper
3 towards the application head 2a of the sealing machine 2.
[0065] With particular reference now to Figure 7, just like the gripper 7 of the embodiment
of Figures 3 and 4A-4B is supported by the support means 8, also the rotating suction
means 13 are mounted on the support structure 14, which is movable and is able to
perform a translatory movement for inserting the rotating end portion 13b inside the
wrapper 3 for the suction and twisting operations and, thereafter, for removing the
rotating end portion 13b from the wrapper 3. In other words, the support structure
14 can also be operated between a rest position, where the rotating end portion 13b
is on the outside of the wrapper 3, and an operating position, where the rotating
end portion 13b is inserted inside the wrapper 3.
[0066] In order to effectively insert the rotating end portion 13b inside the wrapper 3,
according to this embodiment, the positioning means 6 further comprise opening means
15 adapted to keep the opening of the wrapper 3 in an open condition, thus allowing
the entry therein of the rotating end portion 13b of the rotating suction means 13,
as shown in detail in Figure 8.
[0067] In particular, the opening means 15 comprise a first portion 15a, which is fixed
and integral with the support frame 4, and a second portion 15b, which is movable
towards and away from the fixed first portion 15a. According to the local reference
system of the figures, the fixed first portion 15a is a bottom portion and the movable
second portion 15b is a top portion able to perform a vertical movement.
[0068] The surfaces of the fixed first portion 15a and of the movable second portion 15b,
which face each other and are denoted respectively as Sa and Sb, are provided with
a plurality of holes for air suction. In particular, according to the local reference
system of the figures, the surface Sa is a top surface of the fixed first portion
15a, while the surface Sb is a bottom surface of the movable second portion 15b.
[0069] In this way, when the wrapper 3 is transported by the conveyor belt 5 into the pick-up
region P, thanks to the suction by the portions 15a and 15b of the opening means 15,
parts of the wrapper 3 adhere to those portions 15a and 15b, such that the movement
of the movable second portion 15b away from the fixed first portion 15a keeps the
opening of the wrapper 3 in an open position, therefore allowing the entry therein
of the rotating suction means 13.
[0070] It is emphasized that, although the embodiment in which the opening means 15 keep
the wrapper 3 open by means of suction is preferred, other forms and modes of operation
of these opening means 15 are nevertheless possible. For example, the opening of the
wrapper 3 may be performed by means of automatic grippers, as well as by means of
a system of rings or a system of suction cups.
[0071] It is also emphasized that, while the embodiment of Figure 3 is adapted to perform
the sealing of a wrapper which is already partially closed, for example a wrapper
containing mozzarella cheese, the embodiment of Figures 6A-6B and 7 is suitable for
performing the sealing of an open wrapper.
[0072] Furthermore, in addition to the instrumentation described above, the apparatus 1
comprises a plurality of sensors for the optimum management thereof. For example,
the apparatus 1 can comprise proximity sensors, such as ultrasound sensors, photocells
or also optical sensors for managing every aspect of the production process. These
sensors are for example adapted to check the correct positioning of the wrapper 3
on the conveyor belt 5 and feeding thereof, as well as the absence of said wrapper.
In general, the sensors of the apparatus 1 control on the one hand the operation thereof
and on the other hand ensure also the safety of the operator.
[0073] The apparatus 1 may also be connected to other systems, for example remote systems,
for the control/monitoring thereof, this connection being performed via wireless communication
means or by means of cabled systems (for example Ethernet).
[0074] In particular, the apparatus 1 may be connected to the network via the aforementioned
means so as to be controlled remotely. For example, by means of suitable sensors connected
to the various components of the apparatus 1, it is possible to remotely detect an
incorrect operation of those components or in general to perform the monitoring and
control thereof.
[0075] For example, it is possible to provide the presence of programmable logic controllers
apt to control all the components of the apparatus 1, those controllers processing
the signals from the various sensors.
[0076] Furthermore, it is possible to provide sensors able to detect the weight of the wrapper
3 on the conveyor belt 5, as well as a counter able to count the number of seals applied
by the sealing machine 2, these components being possibly connected to the network
for remote control of these parameters.
[0077] By means of this remote-control, it is therefore possible to check correct operation
of the apparatus 1, as well as the actual number of seals applied. Furthermore, in
addition to the correct operation and to the maintenance of the components, it is
possible to determine whether a component is replaced with a non-original component,
the production process being interrupted in case the components are not original components,
are defective or have been tampered with or also in case the number of seals applied
is greater than a preset number.
[0078] In other words, the apparatus 1 can be connected to other systems for the automatic
control and monitoring thereof, as well as for the validation of the production process
performed by it.
[0079] In the context of the packaging of food products, it is also very important to ensure
the cleanliness and hygiene of the apparatus 1. This requirement is of even greater
importance in the case where the positioning means 6 comprise the rotating suction
means 13 which is inserted inside the wrapper 3. For this purpose, conveniently according
to the present invention, the apparatus 1 comprises cleaning means, not shown in the
figures, which ensure the hygienic condition and always optimum operation of the apparatus
1.
[0080] The monitoring and management of the entire apparatus 1 is performed by means of
a user interface (not shown), which is connected to a central unit. For this purpose,
the central unit is in turn connected to all the sensors and actuators of the apparatus
1 for the control and management thereof. More specifically, the central unit supervises
both the positioning means 6 and the movement means 10, as well as the sealing machine
2, therefore managing in an automatic and centralized manner the entire apparatus
1. The central unit therefore executes a suitable algorithm for processing the signals
from the various sensors and performing the control, also remotely, of the apparatus
1.
[0081] The central unit also performs the synchronization of the positioning means 6, the
movement means 10 and the conveyor belt 5. More specifically, the central unit controls
the operation of one or more electric motors through which the movement of those components
is synchronized, even though the present invention is not limited thereto, the synchronization
being possibly performed for example also by means of entirely mechanical or pneumatic
systems.
[0082] It is also possible to provide a further central unit intended for the sole control
of the sealing machine 2, even though only a single central unit may be provided.
[0083] According to an embodiment shown in Figure 9, the apparatus 1 comprises a covering
structure or casing 16 apt to cover at least the sealing machine 2, the positioning
means 6 and the movement means 10, acting as a protection system for these components.
[0084] Still referring to Figure 9, the casing 16 defines a region in which a control box
18 is arranged, said control box 18 in turn comprising the central unit and all the
components required for the management of the apparatus 1, such as the aforementioned
user interface, the controllers and the switches.
[0085] Finally, the apparatus 1 is structured in such a way that, at a first region of the
conveyor belt 5, there is a loading area A1 in which the operator places the wrapper
to be sealed and, at a second region of the conveyor belt 5, there is an unloading
area A2 in which the sealed wrapper is situated and can be picked up by the operator
or by automatic pick-up means.
[0086] The present invention also relates to a method for sealing a wrapper 3, the method
being carried out by means of the apparatus 1 described above.
[0087] In particular, the sealing method comprises at least the steps of:
- positioning the wrapper 3 on a conveyor belt 5; and
- moving the wrapper 3 by means of the conveyor belt 5 towards a sealing machine 2 for
applying a seal around the wrapper 3.
[0088] Advantageously according to the present invention, the method further comprises the
steps of:
- positioning a sealing portion of the wrapper 3 at a pick-up region P by means of positioning
means 6;
- transporting in an automatic manner the wrapper 3 from the pick-up region P towards
an application head 2a of the sealing machine 2 by means of movement means 10; and
- applying the seal automatically around the sealing portion of the wrapper 3.
[0089] In this way, it is possible to apply a seal around a wrapper in an automatic and
efficient manner, by means of the combined action of the positioning means 6 and the
movement means 10. In fact, after placing the wrapper 3 in a loading area A1 of the
conveyor belt 5, the wrapper is transported by the conveyor belt and then picked up
by the positioning means 6, which are operated to hold the wrapper 3 in the pick-up
region P; the movement means 10 then transport the wrapper 3 to the sealing machine
2, which applies the seal, so that it is possible to pick up the sealed wrapper 3
at an unloading area A2.
[0090] In particular, the step of positioning a portion of the wrapper at the pick-up region
P is performed by means of a suitable actuator, in particular a gripper 7, included
in the positioning means 6. More specifically, the step of positioning comprises a
step of moving the gripper 7 from an open position to a closed position, so as to
retain the sealing portion of the wrapper 3 at the pick-up region P.
[0091] The pick-up and the subsequent conveying of the wrapper 3 towards the application
head 2a of the sealing machine 2 is performed by means of the movement means 10, which
pick up the wrapper 3 by means of a gripper 11 that is in turn moved by a chain 12.
[0092] According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the step of positioning
comprises a step of inserting in the wrapper 3 a rotating suction means 13, such a
step being preceded by a step of opening the wrapper 3 through opening means 15, thus
allowing the entry therein of the rotating suction means 13.
[0093] In order to ensure the formation of the sealing portion, the aforementioned insertion
step is followed by a step of suctioning air into the wrapper 3 by means of the rotating
suction means 13 and by a step of rotating the rotating suction means 13, in particular
a rotating end portion 13b thereof, in order to define the sealing portion in the
wrapper 3.
[0094] In this way, conveniently, the air suction causes the adhesion of a portion of the
wrapper to the rotating end portion 13b, thus facilitating the subsequent sealing
of an initially open wrapper, the sealing being performed in a safe and hygienic manner.
[0095] As a consequence, the suction and rotation step are particularly important for ensuring
that the subsequent sealing step is performed correctly both from a hygiene and from
a qualitative point of view. Furthermore, the rotation is suitably calibrated since
an incomplete rolling action results in an ineffective seal, while an excessive rolling
action creates a rigid cordon on the neck of the wrapper which prevents the sealing
process.
[0096] The positioning and sealing steps are performed simultaneously for two different
wrappers arranged on the conveyor belt 5 so that, when a wrapper is in the sealing
step, another wrapper is in the positioning step in the pick-up region P. As a result,
the production speed is as fast as possible, obtaining performance levels which cannot
be achieved by means of a manual operation of a single operator.
[0097] All the steps of the method of the present invention are monitored and managed by
a central unit. More specifically, the central unit supervises both the positioning
means 6 and the movement means 10, as well as the sealing machine 2, managing the
entire process in an automatic and centralized manner, these means being suitably
synchronized with each other.
[0098] In conclusion, the present invention provides a sealing apparatus wherein a wrapper
containing a product, suitably arranged on a conveyor belt, is positioned in a preset
position of the apparatus, as well as prepared for sealing, via suitable means, and
then is picked up from that preset position and transported towards the application
head of a sealing machine for the application of a seal to the wrapper.
[0099] Advantageously according to the present invention, the sealing apparatus is able
to apply in an automatic, efficient and precise manner a seal around a wrapper, which
can contain different types of products and have different shapes.
[0100] The positioning means allow positioning the wrapper to be sealed in a preset position
and preparing it for subsequent sealing, while the movement means pick up the wrapper
from this preset position and transport it towards a sealing machine for the application
of the seal. The positioning means are therefore intended to assist the movement means,
which otherwise would not manage to pick up the wrapper, which may be incorrectly
positioned on the conveyor belt, and to ensure an efficient sealing process.
[0101] It is therefore clear that the apparatus described in the present specification solves
the technical problem of the present invention, achieving significant advantages,
such as the automation of the sealing process and the increase of the production speed.
[0102] Depending on the type of wrapper to be sealed, the positioning means can comprise
an actuator such as a gripper in an open or closed configuration which holds the wrapper,
or a rotating suction means that performs a rotational movement and at the same time
suctions air inside the wrapper, making the apparatus according to the invention particularly
versatile.
[0103] The possibility of closing, before sealing, an initially open wrapper by rolling
up the wrapper by means of the rotating suction means makes the present apparatus
particularly attractive for sealing many types of food products.
[0104] In addition, there is the fact that the present apparatus integrates the known technology
of the sealing machines, in particular able to apply inviolable plastic seals, with
an innovative automation process.
[0105] Obviously, a person skilled in the art, in order to meet particular needs and specifications,
can carry out several changes and modifications to the sealing apparatus and method
described above, all included in the protection scope of the invention as defined
by the following claims.
1. A sealing apparatus (1) comprising a sealing machine (2), in turn including an application
head (2a) adapted to apply a seal around a wrapper (3) of a product, and a conveyor
belt (5) adapted to move said wrapper (3) towards said sealing machine (2), said apparatus
(1) further comprises positioning means (6) including at least one actuator (13) adapted
to position a sealing portion of said wrapper (3) at a pick-up region (P) of said
apparatus (1), as well as movement means (10) adapted to transport said wrapper (3)
from said pick-up region (P) towards said application head (2a) of said sealing machine
(2) for applying said seal around said sealing portion of said wrapper (3), the apparatus
being characterized in that said at least one actuator (13) is in the form of rotating suction means (13) comprising
a body (13a) and at least one rotating end portion (13b) at an end of the body (13a),
said rotating end portion being (13b) adapted to be inserted inside said wrapper (3)
and to suction air therein, said rotating suction means (13) defining said sealing
portion of said wrapper (3) by means of a rotation of said rotating end portion (13b),
said rotating suction means (13) holding said sealing portion of said wrapper (3)
at said pick-up region (P), and wherein said rotating end portion (13b) comprises
suction holes that are arranged radially with respect to the longitudinal axis of
the body (13a) of said rotating suction means (13).
2. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that said positioning means (6) further comprise opening means (15) for keeping an opening
of said wrapper (3) in an open condition, allowing the entry of said rotating suction
means (13) inside said wrapper (3).
3. The apparatus (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that said opening means (15) comprise a first portion (15a), which is fixed, and a second
portion (15b), which is movable towards and away from said first portion (15a), surfaces
(Sa, Sb) facing each other of said first and second portions (15a, 15b) being provided
with a plurality of air suction holes for keeping the opening of said wrapper (3)
in said open condition.
4. The apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said positioning means (6) comprise a support structure (8, 14) of said at least
one actuator (7, 13), said support structure (8, 14) being movable between a first
position, where said actuator (7, 13) is spaced from said wrapper (3), and a second
position, where said actuator (7, 13) acts on said wrapper (3).
5. The apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said movement means (10) comprise at least one gripper (11) adapted to pick up said
wrapper (3) from said pick-up region (P) and to move said wrapper (3) towards said
application head (2a) of said sealing machine (2), said at least one gripper (11)
being moved by a chain (12).
6. The apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said positioning means (6) and said movement means (10) are synchronized with each
other and are synchronized with the movement of said conveyor belt (5).
7. The apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said sealing machine (2) is adapted to apply a seal having a flap to be folded and
a plate including a display portion displaying information about the product inside
said wrapper (3), wherein said application head (2a) comprises means for folding said
flap of said seal around said wrapper (3) and fixing said flap by means of fixing
means, said sealing machine (2) further comprising printing means adapted to print
data on said display portion of said seal, said fixing means being selected from an
ultrasonic welder, a punching machine or gluing means.
8. The apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said seal is made of a plastic material.
9. The apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it further comprises a plurality of sensors, which are connected to a central unit,
for managing and controlling said apparatus (1), which is in turn connected to monitoring
and control remote systems via suitable communication means, the signals of at least
some of said sensors being sent to said remote systems via said communication means,
said remote systems controlling said apparatus (1) on the basis of the signals of
said sensors.
10. A method for sealing a wrapper (3) comprising at least the steps of:
- positioning said wrapper (3) on a conveyor belt (5); and
- moving said wrapper (3) by means of said conveyor belt (5) towards a sealing machine
(2) for applying a seal around said wrapper (3),
- positioning a sealing portion of said wrapper (3) at a pick-up region (P) by means
of positioning means (6);
- transporting said wrapper (3) from said pick-up region (P) towards an application
head (2a) of said sealing machine (2) by means of movement means (10); and
- applying said seal around said sealing portion of said wrapper (3),
said method being
characterized in that said positioning step comprises a step of inserting in said wrapper (3) at least
one rotating end portion (13b) of rotating suction means (13), said insertion step
being followed by a step of suctioning air into said wrapper (3) by means of said
rotating suction means (13) and by a step of rotating said rotating end portion (13b)
of said rotating suction means (13) so as to define said sealing portion of said wrapper
(3), and
wherein said rotating end portion (13b) comprises suction holes that are arranged
radially with respect to the longitudinal axis of a body (13a) of said rotating suction
means (13).
11. The method according to claim 10, wherein said insertion step is preceded by a step
of keeping an opening of said wrapper (3) in an open condition by means of opening
means (15), allowing the entry of said rotating suction means (13) into said wrapper
(3).
12. The method according to claim 10 or 11, wherein said positioning step and said sealing
step are performed simultaneously for at least two different wrappers arranged on
said conveyor belt (5).
1. Eine Schliessvorrichtung (1) umfassend eine Schliessmaschine (2), die ihrerseits einen
Applikationskopf (2a), der zum Aufbringen einer Dichtung um eine Hülle (3) eines Produkts
geeignet ist, und ein Förderband (5), das dazu geeignet ist, die Hülle (3) in Richtung
der Schliessmaschine (2) zu bewegen, wobei die Vorrichtung (1) ferner Positionierungsmittel
(6) umfasst, die mindestens einen Aktuator (13) umfassen, der dazu geeignet ist, einen
Abdichtungsabschnitt der Hülle (3) an einem Aufnahmebereich (P) der Schliessvorrichtung
(1) zu positionieren, sowie eine Bewegungseinrichtung (10), die geeignet ist, die
Hülle (3) von dem Aufnahmebereich (P) zu dem Applikationskopf (2a) der Schliessmaschine
(2) zu transportieren, um die Dichtung um den Abdichtungsabschnitt der Hülle (3) herum
aufzubringen, wobei die Vorrichtung dadurch gekennzeichnet ist, dass der mindestens eine Aktuator (13) die Form einer rotierenden Saugeinrichtung (13)
hat, die einen Körper (13a) und mindestens einen rotierenden Endabschnitt (13b) an
einem Ende des Körpers (13a) umfasst, wobei der rotierende Endabschnitt (13b) so angepasst
ist, dass er in die Hülle (3) eingeführt werden kann und Luft darin angesaugt wird,
wobei die rotierende Saugeinrichtung (13) den Abdichtungsabschnitt der Hülle (3) durch
eine Drehung des rotierenden Endabschnitts (13b) definiert, wobei die rotierende Saugeinrichtung
(13) den Abdichtungsabschnitt der Hülle (3) an dem Aufnahmebereich (P) hält, und wobei
der rotierende Endabschnitt (13b) Sauglöcher aufweist, die radial in Bezug auf die
Längsachse des Körpers (13a) der rotierenden Saugeinrichtung (13) angeordnet sind.
2. Die Vorrichtung (1) nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Positionierungsmittel (6) ferner Öffnungseinrichtung (15) umfassen, um eine Öffnung
der Hülle (3) in einem offenen Zustand zu halten, wodurch der Eintritt der rotierenden
Saugeinrichtung (13) in das Innere der Hülle (3) ermöglicht wird.
3. Die Vorrichtung (1) nach Anspruch 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Öffnungseinrichtung (15) einen ersten Abschnitt (15a), der fest ist, und einen
zweiten Abschnitt (15b), der auf den ersten Abschnitt (15a) zu und von diesem weg
bewegbar ist, umfasst, wobei einander zugewandte Flächen (Sa, Sb) des ersten und zweiten
Abschnitts (15a, 15b) mit einer Vielzahl von Luftansauglöchern versehen sind, um die
Öffnung der Hülle (3) in dem offenen Zustand zu halten.
4. Die Vorrichtung (1) nach einem der vorstehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Positionierungsmittel (6) eine Stützstruktur (8, 14) des mindestens einen Aktuators
(7, 13) umfassen, wobei die Stützstruktur (8, 14) zwischen einer ersten Position,
in der der Aktuator (7, 13) von der Hülle (3) entfernt ist, und einer zweiten Position,
in der der Aktuator (7, 13) auf die Hülle (3) wirkt, beweglich ist.
5. Die Vorrichtung (1) nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Bewegungseinrichtung (10) mindestens einen Greifer (11) umfasst, der geeignet
ist, die Hülle (3) aus dem Aufnahmebereich (P) aufzunehmen und die Hülle (3) in Richtung
auf den Applikationskopf (2a) der Schliessmaschine (2) zu bewegen, wobei der mindestens
eine Greifer (11) durch eine Kette (12) bewegt wird.
6. Die Vorrichtung (1) nach einem der vorstehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Positionierungsmittel (6) und die Bewegungseinrichtung (10) miteinander synchronisiert
sind und mit der Bewegung des Förderbandes (5) synchronisiert sind.
7. Die Vorrichtung (1) nach einem der vorstehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Schliessmaschine (2) geeignet ist, eine Dichtung mit einer zu faltenden Klappe
und einer Platte mit einem Anzeigeabschnitt, der Informationen über das Produkt im
Inneren der Hülle (3) anzeigt, aufzubringen, wobei der Applikationskopf (2a) Mittel
zum Falten der Klappe der Dichtung um die Hülle (3) und zum Fixieren der Klappe mittels
Befestigungsmitteln umfasst, wobei die Schliessmaschine (2) ferner Druckmittel umfasst,
das geeignet ist, Daten auf den Anzeigeabschnitt der Dichtung zu drucken, wobei die
Befestigungsmittel aus einem Ultraschallschweißgerät, einer Stanzmaschine oder einem
Klebemittel ausgewählt werden.
8. Die Vorrichtung (1) nach einem der vorstehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Dichtung aus einem Kunststoffmaterial hergestellt ist.
9. Die Vorrichtung (1) nach einem der vorstehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass sie ferner eine Vielzahl von Sensoren umfasst, die mit einer Zentraleinheit verbunden
sind, um die Vorrichtung (1) zu verwalten und zu steuern, die ihrerseits über geeignete
Kommunikationsmittel mit Überwachungs- und Steuerungs-Fernsystemen verbunden ist,
wobei die Signale mindestens einiger der Sensoren über die Kommunikationsmittel an
die Fernsysteme gesendet werden, wobei die Fernsysteme die Vorrichtung (1) auf der
Grundlage der Signale der Sensoren steuern.
10. Ein Verfahren zum Abdichten einer Hülle (3), das mindestens die folgenden Schritte
umfasst:
- Positionieren der Hülle (3) auf einem Förderband (5); und
- Bewegen der Hülle (3) mittels des Förderbandes (5) zu einer Schliessmaschine (2)
zum Aufbringen einer Dichtung um die Hülle (3),
- Positionieren eines Abdichtungsabschnitt der Hülle (3) an einem Aufnahmebereich
(P) mit Hilfe von Positionierungsmitteln (6);
- Transportieren der Hülle (3) von dem Aufnahmebereich (P) zu einem Applikationskopf
(2a) der Schliessmaschine (2) mit Hilfe von Bewegungsmitteln (10); und
- Anbringen der Dichtung um den Abdichtungsabschnitt der Hülle (3),
wobei das Verfahren
dadurch gekennzeichnet ist, dass, der Positionierungsschritt einen Schritt des Einführens mindestens eines rotierenden
Endabschnitts (13b) einer rotierenden Saugeinrichtung (13) in die Hülle (3) umfasst,
wobei dem Einführungsschritt ein Schritt des Ansaugens von Luft in die Hülle (3) mittels
der rotierenden Saugeinrichtung (13) und ein Schritt des Drehens des rotierenden Endabschnitts
(13b) der rotierenden Saugeinrichtung (13) folgt, um so den Abdichtungsabschnitt der
Hülle (3) zu definieren, und wobei der rotierende Endabschnitt (13b) Sauglöcher aufweist,
die radial in Bezug auf die Längsachse eines Körpers (13a) der rotierenden Saugeinrichtung
(13) angeordnet sind.
11. Verfahren nach Anspruch 10, wobei dem Einführungsschritt ein Schritt vorausgeht, bei
dem eine Öffnung der Hülle (3) mittels einer Öffnungseinrichtung (15) in einem offenen
Zustand gehalten wird, wodurch der Eintritt der rotierenden Saugeinrichtung (13) in
die Hülle (3) ermöglicht wird.
12. Verfahren nach Anspruch 10 oder 11, bei dem der Positionierungsschritt und der Abdichtungsschritt
gleichzeitig für mindestens zwei verschiedene, auf dem Förderband (5) angeordnete
Hüllen durchgeführt werden.
1. Appareil de scellage (1) comprenant une machine de scellage (2), incluant à son tour
une tête d'application (2a) apte à appliquer un joint autour d'une enveloppe (3) d'un
produit, et une bande transporteuse (5) apte à déplacer ladite enveloppe (3) vers
ladite machine de scellage (2), ledit appareil (1) comprenant en outre des moyens
de positionnement (6) incluant au moins un actionneur (13) apte à positionner une
portion de scellage de ladite enveloppe (3) à une région de prise (P) dudit appareil
(1), ainsi que des moyens de déplacement (10) aptes à transporter ladite enveloppe
(3) de ladite région de prise (P) vers ladite tête d'application (2a) de ladite machine
de scellage (2) pour appliquer ledit joint autour de ladite portion de scellage de
ladite enveloppe (3), l'appareil étant caractérisé en ce que ledit au moins un actionneur (13) est sous la forme de moyens d'aspiration rotatifs
(13) comprenant un corps (13a) et au moins une portion d'extrémité rotative (13b)
à une extrémité du corps (13a), ladite portion d'extrémité rotative (13b) étant apte
à être insérée à l'intérieur de ladite enveloppe (3) et à aspirer de l'air à l'intérieur
de celle-ci, lesdits moyens d'aspiration rotatifs (13) définissant ladite portion
de scellage de ladite enveloppe (3) au moyen d'une rotation de ladite portion d'extrémité
rotative (13b), lesdits moyens d'aspiration rotatifs (13) maintenant ladite portion
de scellage de ladite enveloppe (3) à ladite région de prise (P), et dans lequel ladite
portion d'extrémité rotative (13b) comprend des trous d'aspiration qui sont agencés
radialement par rapport à l'axe longitudinal du corps (13a) desdits moyens d'aspiration
rotatifs (13).
2. Appareil (1) selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que lesdits moyens de positionnement (6) comprennent en outre des moyens d'ouverture
(15) pour maintenir une ouverture de ladite enveloppe (3) dans un état ouvert, permettant
l'entrée desdits moyens d'aspiration rotatifs (13) à l'intérieur de ladite enveloppe
(3).
3. Appareil (1) selon la revendication 2, caractérisé en ce que lesdits moyens d'ouverture (15) comprennent une première portion (15a), qui est fixe,
et une seconde portion (15b), qui est mobile vers et à l'écart de ladite première
portion (15a), des surfaces (Sa, Sb) faisant face à l'une et l'autre desdites première
et seconde portions (15a, 15b) étant pourvues d'une pluralité de trous d'aspiration
d'air pour maintenir l'ouverture de ladite enveloppe (3) dans ledit état ouvert.
4. Appareil (1) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que lesdits moyens de positionnement (6) comprennent une structure de support (8, 14)
dudit au moins un actionneur (7, 13), ladite structure de support (8, 14) étant mobile
entre une première position, dans laquelle ledit actionneur (7, 13) est espacé de
ladite enveloppe (3), et une seconde position, dans laquelle ledit actionneur (7,
13) agit sur ladite enveloppe (3).
5. Appareil (1) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que lesdits moyens de déplacement (10) comprennent au moins un préhenseur (11) apte à
prendre ladite enveloppe (3) de ladite région de prise (P) et à déplacer ladite enveloppe
(3) vers ladite tête d'application (2a) de ladite machine de scellage (2), ledit au
moins un préhenseur (11) étant déplacé par une chaîne (12).
6. Appareil (1) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que lesdits moyens de positionnement (6) et lesdits moyens de déplacement (10) sont synchronisés
l'un avec l'autre et sont synchronisés avec le déplacement de ladite bande transporteuse
(5).
7. Appareil (1) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que ladite machine de scellage (2) est apte à appliquer un joint ayant un rabat à replier
et une plaque incluant une portion d'affichage affichant des informations relatives
au produit à l'intérieur de ladite enveloppe (3), dans lequel ladite tête d'application
(2a) comprend des moyens pour replier ledit rabat dudit joint autour de ladite enveloppe
(3) et pour fixer ledit rabat au moyen desdits moyens de fixation, ladite machine
de scellage (2) comprenant en outre des moyens d'impression aptes à imprimer des données
sur ladite portion d'affichage dudit joint, lesdits moyens de fixation étant sélectionnés
parmi une soudeuse ultrasonore, une poinçonneuse ou des moyens de collage.
8. Appareil (1) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que ledit joint est constitué d'une matière plastique.
9. Appareil (1) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend en outre une pluralité de capteurs, qui sont connectés à une unité centrale,
pour gérer et de commander ledit appareil (1), qui est à son tour connecté à des systèmes
distants de surveillance et de commande via des moyens de communication appropriés,
les signaux d'au moins certains desdits capteurs étant envoyés auxdits systèmes distants
via lesdits moyens de communication, lesdits systèmes distants commandant ledit appareil
(1) sur la base des signaux desdits capteurs.
10. Procédé de scellage d'une enveloppe (3) comprenant au moins les étapes :
- de positionnement de ladite enveloppe (3) sur une bande transporteuse (5) ; et
- de déplacement de ladite enveloppe (3) au moyen de ladite bande transporteuse (5)
vers une machine de scellage (2) pour appliquer un joint autour de ladite enveloppe
(3),
- de positionnement d'une portion de scellage de ladite enveloppe (3) à une région
de prise (P) au moyen de moyens de positionnement (6) ;
- de transport de ladite enveloppe (3) de ladite région de prise (P) vers une tête
d'application (2a) de ladite machine de scellage (2) au moyen de moyens de déplacement
(10) ; et
- d'application dudit joint autour de ladite portion de scellage de ladite enveloppe
(3), ledit procédé étant caractérisé en ce que ladite étape de positionnement comprend une étape d'insertion dans ladite enveloppe
(3) d'au moins une portion d'extrémité rotative (13b) de moyens d'aspiration rotatifs
(13), ladite étape d'insertion étant suivie d'une étape d'aspiration d'air dans ladite
enveloppe (3) au moyen desdits moyens d'aspiration rotatifs (13) et d'une étape de
rotation de ladite portion d'extrémité rotative (13b) desdits moyens d'aspiration
rotatifs (13) de manière à définir ladite portion de scellage de ladite enveloppe
(3), et
dans lequel ladite portion d'extrémité rotative (13b) comprend des trous d'aspiration
qui sont agencés radialement par rapport à l'axe longitudinal d'un corps (13a) desdits
moyens d'aspiration rotatifs (13).
11. Procédé selon la revendication 10, dans lequel ladite étape d'insertion est précédée
d'une étape de maintien d'une ouverture de ladite enveloppe (3) dans un état ouvert
au moyen de moyens d'ouverture (15), permettant l'entrée desdits moyens d'aspiration
rotatifs (13) dans ladite enveloppe (3).
12. Procédé selon la revendication 10 ou 11, dans lequel ladite étape de positionnement
et ladite étape de scellage sont effectuées simultanément pour au moins deux enveloppes
différentes agencées sur ladite bande transporteuse (5).