AUTOMATED MACHINE FOR PRODUCING CORD CHAINS AND PROCESS FOR PRODUCING CORD CHAINS

Abstract

 Automated machine for producing cord chains comprising a feed group (2), a chaining station (8) and a transport group (15). The feed group (2) comprises two first and two second loaders (3, 4), adapted to provide respectively first and second open rings (5, 6) having different diameters. The chaining station (8) comprises a first and a second clamp (9, 10), in order to retain respectively a first and a second ring (5, 6) of the cord chain at a chaining position, and first movement means (11), in order to place one of the two clamps (9, 10) in chaining position. In addition, the chaining station (8) comprises a first and a second rotary gripper (12, 13), in order to retain respectively a first and a second ring (5, 6) at a meshing position and rotatable in order to link the corresponding first and second ring (5, 6) to a ring of the cord chain in chaining position, and second movement means (14), in order to place one of the two rotary grippers (12, 13) in meshing position. The transport group (15) comprises two first and two second feed grippers (16, 17) and third movement means (18), in order to move the first and second feed grippers (16, 17) between a loading position, in which they respectively pick up at least one first or second ring (5, 6) from the respective first and second loaders (3, 4), and an unloading position, in which they release at least one first or second ring (5, 6) respectively at a first or second clamp (9, 10) in chaining position and to a first or second rotary gripper (12, 13) in meshing position.
The invention also relates to a process for producing cord chains.

Description

Field of application

[0001] The present invention regards an automated machine for producing cord chains and a process for producing cord chains, according to the preamble of the respective independent claims.

[0002] The present machine and process are inserted in the industrial field of production of jewelry articles, in particular of processing metal ring assemblies made of precious material, intended to form ornamental cord chains once linked to each other.

[0003] In particular, the machine and the process, object of the invention, are advantageously intended to be employed for attaining multiple different models of cord chains or cord chains having multiple sections in sequence composed of rings having diameters different from section to section and connected together at the ends thereof.

State of the art

[0004] Currently present in the field of production of jewelry articles are machines for producing, in an automated manner, cord chains starting from metal rings having the same diameter, which are generally made of precious material, e.g. gold alloys, silver alloys, platinum alloys, etc.

[0005] In particular, one example of such machines is shown in the Italian patent No. 102015000017695, which describes a machine comprising a feed group provided with two loaders side-by-side each other and each adapted to supply rings having a corresponding chaining opening, and such rings are intended to be inserted one inside the other through the corresponding chaining openings in order to form multiple pairs of rings linked together in sequence and thus adapted to attain the cord chain.

[0006] In addition, the machine of known type comprises a chaining station provided with a clamp, which is actuatable between a closed configuration and an open configuration in order to retain and release respectively a ring of the cord chain in a manner such to support it or free it, and with a rotary gripper placed adjacent to the clamp, which is actuatable between a retention configuration and a release configuration in order to retain and release respectively a ring and actuatable to rotate around a rotation axis thereof in order to link the aforesaid ring with a ring of the cord chain supported by the clamp.

[0007] The machine also comprises a transport group, which is provided with a pair of feed grippers, each of which actuatable between a grip configuration and an unconstrained configuration in order to retain and release respectively a ring, and corresponding movement means arranged in order to move the aforesaid feed grippers between a loading position, in which they pick up the rings from the loaders of the feed group, and an unloading position, at the chaining station, in which the aforesaid feed grippers release the rings respectively at the clamp and at the rotary gripper.

[0008] More in detail, during use, the movement means carry the pair of feed grippers in loading position, in a manner such that the aforesaid feed grippers switch into grip configuration in order to pick up two corresponding rings from the loaders.

[0009] In addition, following the pick-up of the rings, the movement means carry the pair of feed grippers into unloading position, at which one of the two feed grippers inserts the ring that it previously picked up onto a ring of the cord chain supported by the clamp, through the chaining openings of the same rings, and the other feed gripper transfers the ring thereof to the rotary gripper, which rotates around the rotation axis thereof in order to link the ring received onto the ring that was just inserted on the cord chain.

[0010] At this point, the clamp switches into open configuration in order to release the cord chain hung from the rotary gripper at the ring linked thereby and once again switches into closed position in order to once again take the cord chain at the aforesaid ring.

[0011] Such machine is adapted to repeat the previously-described operations in a cyclic manner, in order to link two new rings to each cycle, up to obtaining a cord chain of the desired length.

[0012] The above-described machines for producing cord chains of known type have in practice shown that they do not lack drawbacks.

[0013] The main drawback of these machines of known type lies in the fact that they do not allow, at least in an easy manner, carrying out changes of the characteristics of the cord chains produced, i.e. in particular changes in the dimensions of the rings adapted to form the cord chains.

[0014] Indeed, the rings are provided with a same diameter, which is associated with precise dimensions of the components of the clamp, of the rotary gripper and of the feed grippers. Indeed, if rings were supplied through the feed group with a diameter different from that provided, the clamp, the rotary gripper and the feed grippers would either be unable to be closed on a corresponding ring in order to securely retain it, in the event in which the ring has a diameter larger than that provided, or they would be closed, allowing the ring to fall, in the event in which such ring has a diameter smaller than that provided.

[0015] Therefore, in the above-described machines of known type, in order to change the dimensions of the rings with which the cord chain is formed, it is necessary to substitute most of the components of the clamp, of the rotary gripper and of the feed grippers, with consequent slowing of the production.

[0016] In addition, the movements of the clamp and of the rotary gripper of the chaining station and of the feed grippers of the transport group are driven by mechanical actuation members, in particular with cam driving, and therefore, in the event in which the components of the clamp, rotary gripper and feed grippers are substituted in order to produce a different cord chain model, it would be necessary to re-equip the machine in order to change the settings as a function of the size of the rings of the cord chain to be produced.

[0017] In addition, the above-described machines of known type are unable to produced, in an automated manner, one same cord chain having multiple sectors in sequence formed by rings of different dimensions (of so-called "graduated" type), since the chaining station and the feed group are able, in the operative cycle, to manage rings with only one pre-established diameter.

[0018] Therefore, in order to produce cord chains having multiple sectors in sequence with rings of different dimensions, it is necessary to produce, with different machines, the different sectors of the cord chain and then manually connect them together at the ends thereof, with consequent long production times and high labor costs.

Presentation of the invention

[0019] In this situation the problem underlying the present invention is therefore that of overcoming the drawbacks manifested by the abovementioned solutions of known type by providing an automated machine and a process for producing cord chains, which allow simply and inexpensively producing different models of cord chains, in particular with rings having different diameters.

[0020] A further object of the present invention is to provide an automated machine and a process for producing cord chains, which are extremely versatile in use, in particular as a function of the diameters of the rings of the cord chains to be produced.

[0021] A further object of the present invention is to provide an automated machine and a process for producing cord chains, which allow producing cord chains having multiple sections in sequence formed by rings of different diameters.

[0022] A further object of the present invention is to provide an automated machine and a process for producing cord chains, which are simple and inexpensive to attain.

Brief description of the drawings

[0023] The technical characteristics of the present invention, according to the aforesaid objects, can be found from the contents of the below-reported claims and the advantages thereof will be more evident in the following detailed description, made with reference to the enclosed figures, which represent a merely exemplifying and non-limiting embodiment of the invention in which:

• figure 1 shows an automated machine for producing cord chains, object of the present invention, in accordance with a preferred embodiment;
• figure 2 shows a feed group of the automated machine of figure 1;
• figure 3 shows first movement means of a chaining station of the automated machine of figure 1;
• figure 4 shows a first or second clamp of the chaining station of the automated machine of figure 1;
• figure 5 shows second movement means of the chaining station of the automated machine of figure 1;
• figure 6 shows the second movement means of figure 5, with several parts removed in order to better show other parts;
• figure 7 shows a transport plate of the second movement means of figure 5;
• figure 8 shows a transport group of the automated machine of figure 1;
• figure 9 shows a side view of an operative head of the transport group of figure 8;
• figure 10 shows a lateral sectional view of a pair of first or of second feed grippers of the transport group of figure 8;
• figure 11 shows the automated machine of figure 1, with several parts removed, in a fourth pick-up step of a starting operation;
• figure 12 shows the automated machine of figure 1 in a fourth transfer step of the starting operation;
• figure 13 shows the automated machine of figure 1 at the end of a ring passage step of the starting operation;
• figure 14 shows the automated machine of figure 1, with several parts removed, in a first pick-up step of a first chaining operation;
• figure 15 shows the automated machine of figure 1 in a first insertion step and simultaneously in a first transfer step of the first chaining operation;
• figure 16 shows the automated machine of figure 1 in a first meshing step of the first chaining operation.

Detailed description of several preferred embodiments

[0024] With reference to the enclosed drawings, reference number 1 overall indicates an automated machine for producing cord chains in accordance with the present invention.

[0025] More in detail, the present automated machine is intended to be employed in the field of production of jewelry articles in order to attain ornamental cord chains, for example intended to be employed as necklaces or bracelets.

[0026] Hereinbelow, with the expression "cord chain" it must be intended a type of chain provided with pairs of rings inserted one within the other through corresponding chaining openings, and such pairs of rings are linked in sequence.

[0027] The present automated machine 1 comprises at least one feed group 2, which is provided with at least one pair of first loaders 3 and with a pair of second loaders 4.

[0028] The first and the second loaders 3, 4 are adapted to provide respectively first rings 5 having each a first diameter and a chaining opening 7 and second rings 6 each having a second diameter different from the first diameter and a chaining opening 7.

[0029] Such first and second rings 5, 6 are intended to be inserted one inside the other through the chaining openings 7 in order to make multiple pairs of first or second rings 5, 6 linked together in sequence and adapted to form a cord chain.

[0030] Advantageously, as illustrated in particular in figure 2, the first loaders 3 are each provided with a first support rib 53' extended between a first feed end 54', at which the first rings 5 are intended to be inserted on the same first support rib 53', and an opposite first pick-up end 55', at which the first rings 5 are intended to be removed from the corresponding first loader 3.

[0031] In addition, the first support rib 53' of each first loader 3 is preferably provided with a first wide portion 56', which is intended to be at least partially enclosed by the first rings 5, and a first narrow portion 57', at which the chaining openings 7 of the first rings 5 are intended to be placed.

[0032] More in detail, the first narrow portion 57' is placed below the first wide portion 56', in a manner such that the first rings 5 are placed on the first loaders 3 with their chaining opening 7 oriented downward.

[0033] In addition, the first loaders 3 are preferably each provided with a first abutment wall 58' placed in abutment against the first pick-up end 55' of the corresponding first support rib 53', in a manner such that one of the first rings 5 placed on the first loader 3 is in turn placed in abutment against the first abutment wall 58' and hence does not risk falling laterally from the first loader 3 itself, and the first wide portion 56' of the first support rib 53' is provided with first lateral grooves at the first pick-up end 55' adjacent to the first abutment wall 58', which allow releasing from the first wide portion 56' itself the first ring 5 in abutment against the first abutment wall 58'.

[0034] In order to facilitate the pick-up of the first rings 5 from the first support rib 53', the first loaders 3 preferably comprise each a first lifting plate 60', which is placed at the first pick-up end 55' adjacent to the first abutment wall 58' and is actuatable to translate long a first vertical lifting direction in order to lift the first ring 5 placed in abutment against the first abutment wall 58' with respect to the first wide portion 56' of the first support rib 53', making it pass at the first lateral grooves 60'.

[0035] Preferably, the first pick-up end 55' of the first support ribs 53' are placed facing each other. Analogous to the first loaders 3, the second loaders 4 are each provided with a second support rib 53" extended between a second feed end 54", at which the second rings 6 are intended to be inserted on the same second support rib 53", and an opposite second pick-up end 55", at which the second rings 6 are intended to be removed from the corresponding second loader 4.

[0036] In addition, the second support rib 53" of each second loader 4 is preferably provided with a second wide portion 56', which is intended to be at least partially enclosed by the second rings 6, and a second narrow portion 57", at which the chaining openings 7 of the second rings 5 are intended to be placed.

[0037] More in detail, the second narrow portion 57" is placed below the second wide portion 56", in a manner such that the second rings 6 are placed on the second loaders 4 with their chaining opening 7 oriented downward.

[0038] In addition, the second loaders 4 are preferably each provided with a second abutment wall 58" placed in abutment against the second pick-up end 55" of the corresponding second support rib 53", in a manner such that one of the second rings 6 placed on the second loader 4 is in turn placed in abutment against the second abutment wall 58" and hence does not risk falling laterally from the second loader 4 itself, and the second wide portion 56" of the second support rib 53" is provided with second lateral grooves at the second pick-up end 55" adjacent to the second abutment wall 58", which allow releasing from the second wide portion 56" itself the second ring 6 in abutment against the second abutment wall 58".

[0039] In order to facilitate the pick-up of the second rings 6 from the second support rib 53", the second loaders 4 preferably comprise each a second lifting plate, which is placed at the second pick-up end 55" adjacent to the second abutment wall 58" and is actuatable to translate along a second vertical lifting direction thereof in order to lift the second ring 6 placed in abutment against the second abutment wall 58" with respect to the second wide portion 56" of the second support rib 53", making it pass at the second lateral grooves.

[0040] Preferably, the second pick-up ends 55" of the second support ribs 53" are placed facing each other. More in detail, in addition to the pair of first loaders 3 and to the pair of second loaders 4, the feed group 2 preferably comprises multiple pairs of additional loaders 27', 27", 27‴, the additional loaders 27', 27", 27‴ whose pairs are structurally entirely similar to the first loaders 3 and to the second loaders 4 and are adapted to provide rings having diameters different from each other and in turn provided with chaining openings.

[0041] In addition, the present automated machine 1 comprises at least one chaining station 8, which comprises at least one first clamp 9 and a second clamp 10, actuatable between a closed configuration and an open configuration in order to retain and free respectively one of the first and second rings 5, 6 of the cord chain at a chaining position.

[0042] Preferably, the first clamp 9, in closed configuration, is arranged in order to retain a first ring 5 of the cord chain with the chaining opening 7 oriented upward and, in turn, the second clamp 10, in closed configuration, is arranged in order to retain a second ring 6 of the cord chain with the chaining opening 7 oriented upward.

[0043] Advantageously, as illustrated in particular in figure 4, the first clamp 9 comprises a first support body 28', two first rotatable jaws 29', which are hinged to the first support body 28' around two first rotation pins 30' that are substantially parallel to each other and are movable in rotation around the corresponding first rotation pins 30' in order to switch the first clamp 9 itself between the closed configuration and the open configuration, and first actuation means 31' arranged for rotating the aforesaid first rotatable jaws 29' around the first rotation pins 30'.

[0044] More in detail, each first rotatable jaw 29' comprises a first retention arm 32', which is extended starting from the first rotation pin 30' and is intended, in closed configuration, to be rotated close to the first retention arm 32' of the other first rotatable jaw 29' in order to retain a first ring 5 and, in open configuration, to be rotated away from the first retention arm 32' of the other first rotatable jaw 29' in order to release the aforesaid first ring 5, and a first actuation arm 33' opposite the first retention arm 32' with respect to the first rotation pin 30'.

[0045] In addition, the first actuation means 31' preferably comprise at least one first elastic element (not illustrated) mechanically connected to the first rotatable jaws 29' in order to maintain them rotated towards the open configuration and a first spreader body 34' slidably associated with the first support body 28' and movable between an interference position, in which it rotates the first actuation arms 33' away from each other in order to rotate, overcoming the action of the first elastic element, the first rotatable jaws 29' around the first rotation pins 30' towards the closed configuration, and a non-interference position, in which it does not interfere with the first actuation arms 33' in order to allow the first elastic element to maintain the first rotatable jaws 29' rotated in open configuration.

[0046] Analogous to the first clamp 9, the second clamp 10 advantageously comprises a second support body 28", two second rotatable jaws 29", which are hinged to the second support body 28" by means of two second rotation pins 30" that are substantially parallel to each other and are movable in rotation around the corresponding second rotation pins 30" in order to switch the second clamp 10 itself between the closed configuration and the open configuration, and second actuation means 31" arranged for rotating the aforesaid second rotatable jaws 29" around the second rotation pins 30".

[0047] In particular, each second rotatable jaw 29" comprises a second retention arm 32", which is extended starting from the second rotation pin 30" and is intended, in closed configuration, to be rotated close to second retention arm 32" of the other second rotatable jaw 29" in order to retain a second ring 6 and, in open configuration, to be rotated away from the second retention arm 32" of the other second rotatable jaw 29" in order to release the aforesaid second ring 6, and a second actuation arm 33" opposite the second retention arm 32" with respect to the second rotation pin 30".

[0048] In addition, the second actuation means 31" preferably comprise at least one second elastic element (not illustrated) mechanically associated with the second rotatable jaws 29" in order to maintain them rotated towards the open configuration and a second spreader body 34" slidably associated with the second support body 28" and movable between an interference position, in which it rotates the second actuation arms 33" away from each other in order to rotate, overcoming the action of the second elastic element, the second rotatable jaws 29" around the second rotation pins 30" towards the closed configuration, and a non-interference position, in which it does not interfere with the second actuation arms 33" in order to allow the second elastic element to keep the second rotatable jaws 29" rotated in open configuration.

[0049] Analogous to the feed group 2, the chaining station 8 preferably comprises additional clamps 38', 38", 38‴, which are structurally entirely similar to the first and second clamps 9, 10, are in a number equal to the number of pairs of additional loaders 27', 27", 27‴ and are operatively associated each to a corresponding pair of additional loaders 27', 27", 27‴ in order to retain, in closed configuration, a ring supplied by one of the additional loaders 27', 27", 27‴ of the corresponding pair of additional loaders 27', 27", 27‴.

[0050] The chaining station 8 also comprises first movement means 11 connected at least to the first and to the second clamp 9, 10, and preferably also to the additional clamps 38', 38", 38‴, and arranged in order to selectively place one from among at least the first clamp 9, the second clamp 10, and possibly the additional clamps 38', 38", 38‴ at the chaining position.

[0051] Advantageously, as illustrated in particular in figure 3, the first movement means 11 of the chaining station 8 comprise a rotary carousel 19, which carries peripherally mounted thereon at least the first clamp 9 and the second clamp 10 and is rotatable around a revolution axis Z thereof, preferably vertical, in order to selectively bring to the chaining position at least one between the first clamp 9 and the second clamp 10.

[0052] Preferably, the rotary carousel 19 carries peripherally mounted thereon also the additional clamps 38', 38", 38‴, in a manner that one between the first clamp 9, the second clamp 10 and the aforesaid additional clamps 38', 38", 38‴ can be selectively positioned at the chaining position.

[0053] More in detail, in addition, the first clamp 9, the second clamp 10 and the additional clamps 38', 38", 38‴ are placed on the rotary carousel 19 angularly equidistant from each other around the revolution axis Z.

[0054] Advantageously, the first movement means 11 also comprise a first actuator member 20, for example a first electric motor, mechanically connected to the rotary carousel 19 and arranged for rotating the rotary carousel 19 around the revolution axis Z.

[0055] In addition, the chaining station 8 comprises at least one first rotary gripper 12 and a second rotary gripper 13, which are actuatable between a retention configuration and a release configuration in order to retain and release respectively one of the first and second rings 5, 6 at a meshing position adjacent to the chaining position.

[0056] Such first and second rotary gripper 12, 13 are actuatable to rotate around a respective first rotation axis X and a second rotation axis Y in order to orient the chaining opening 7 of the corresponding first and second rings 5, 6 and link the corresponding first and second rings 5, 6 to a ring of the cord chain supported by the first clamp 9 or second clamp 10 in chaining position.

[0057] More in detail, the first rotary gripper 12 is arranged in order to orient the chaining opening 7 of a first ring 5 upward and, analogously, the second rotary gripper 13 is arranged in order to orient the chaining opening 7 of a second ring 6 upward, in a manner such that the first and second rings 5, 6 are linked, with the chaining opening 7 thereof oriented upward, to a ring of the cord chain retained in chaining position by the first or second clamp 9, 10.

[0058] Preferably, as illustrated in particular in figure 7, the first rotary gripper 12 comprises a first support body 35' extended along the first rotation axis X and rotatable with respect to the aforesaid first rotation axis X.

[0059] In addition, the first rotary gripper 12 comprises a first fixed jaw 36', which is fixed to the first support body 35', and a first movable jaw 37', which is rotatably or slidably mounted on the first support body 35' adjacent to the first fixed jaw 36' in order to switch the first rotary gripper 12 itself between the retention configuration and the release configuration.

[0060] More in detail, the first movable jaw 37' is intended, in retention configuration, to be rotated or placed close to the first fixed jaw 36' in order to retain a first ring 5 and, in release configuration, to be rotated or placed away from the first fixed jaw 36' in order to release the aforesaid first ring 5.

[0061] Analogous to the first rotary gripper 12, the second rotary gripper 13 comprises a second support body 35" extended along the second rotation axis Y and rotatable with respect to the aforesaid second rotation axis Y.

[0062] In addition, the second rotary gripper 13 comprises a second fixed jaw 36", which is fixed to the second support body 35", and a second movable jaw 37", which is rotatably or slidably mounted on the second support body 35" adjacent to the second fixed jaw 36" in order to switch the second rotary gripper 13 itself between the retention configuration and the release configuration.

[0063] More in detail, the second movable jaw 37" is intended, in retention configuration, to be rotated or placed away from the second fixed jaw 36" in order to retain a second ring 6 and, in release configuration, to be rotated or placed away from the second fixed jaw 36" in order to release the aforesaid first ring 6.

[0064] In addition, the chaining station 8 preferably comprises additional rotary grippers 39', 39", 39‴, which are structurally entirely similar to the first and second rotary grippers 12, 13, are in a number equal to the number of pairs of additional loaders 27', 27", 27‴ and to the number of number of additional clamps 38', 38", 38‴ and are operatively associated each to a corresponding pair of additional loaders 27', 27", 27‴ in order to retain, in retention configuration, a ring supplied by one of the additional loaders 27', 27", 27‴ of the corresponding pair of additional loaders 27', 27", 27‴.

[0065] The chaining station 8 also comprises second movement means 14 connected to the first and to the second rotary gripper 12, 13, and preferably also to the additional rotary grippers 39', 39", 39‴, and arranged in order to selectively place one between at least the first rotary gripper 12, the second rotary gripper 13, and possibly the additional rotary grippers 39', 39", 39‴, at the meshing position.

[0066] Advantageously, as illustrated in particular in figures 5 and 6, the second movement means 14 of the chaining station 8 comprise at least one abutment base 24 and a transport plate 25, which carries, rotatably mounted thereon, at least the first rotary gripper 12 and the second rotary gripper 13 around the corresponding first rotation axis X and second rotation axis Y and is slidably associated with the abutment base 24, in particular by means of first linear guides 40, along a translation direction W transverse to the first and to the second rotation axis X, Y in order to selectively bring to the meshing position at least one between the first rotary gripper 12 and the second rotary gripper 13.

[0067] Preferably, the first and the second rotary gripper 12, 13 are placed side-by-side on the transport plate 25 with their first and second rotation axis X, Y parallel and horizontal with respect to each other.

[0068] In addition, the translation direction W along which the transport plate 25 is slidable with respect to the abutment base 24 is orthogonal to the first and second rotation axis X, Y respectively of the first and second rotary gripper 12, 13 and is in turn horizontal.

[0069] Preferably, the transport plate 25 carries, rotatably mounted thereon, also the additional rotary grippers 39', 39", 39‴ around rotation axes thereof, in particular parallel to the first and second rotation axes X, Y, in a manner such that one between the first rotary gripper 12, the second rotary gripper 13 and the additional rotary grippers 39', 39", 39'" can be selectively positioned at the meshing position.

[0070] In addition, the second movement means 14 advantageously comprise at least one second actuator member 26, e.g. a second electric motor, mechanically connected to the abutment base 24 and to the transport plate 25 and arranged for translating the transport plate 25 with respect to the abutment base 24 along the translation direction W.

[0071] In accordance with the embodiment illustrated in the enclosed figures, the second actuator member 26 is mounted on the abutment base 24 and is mechanically connected to the transport plate 25 by means of a first actuation screw 41, which is extended parallel to the translation direction W and is actuatable in rotation by the second actuator member 26 itself, and by a first nut screw (not illustrated) fixed to the transport plate 25 and coupled to the aforesaid actuation screw 41.

[0072] More in detail, the transport plate 25 is placed above the abutment base 24, the first actuation screw 41 is extended below the abutment base 24, the abutment base 24 is provided with a through slot 42 extended along the translation direction W and the first nut screw fixed to the transport plate 25 and coupled to the first actuation screw 41 is extended to traverse the aforesaid through slot 42.

[0073] In addition, the transport plate 25 preferably comprises a base portion 43, which is slidably associated with the abutment base 24, and a guide portion 44, which is extended projecting from the aforesaid base portion 43 and on which at least one first guide seat 45 and a second guide seat 46 are made, extended respectively along the first rotation axis X and the second rotation axis Y.

[0074] More in detail, the first guide seat 44 carries inserted therein the first rotary gripper 12, i.e. in particular the first support body 35' of the first rotary gripper 12, slidably along the corresponding first rotation axis X and rotatably around the aforesaid first rotation axis X.

[0075] In addition, the second guide seat 45 preferably carries interested therein the second rotary gripper 13, i.e. in particular the second support body 35" of the second rotary gripper 13, slidably along the corresponding second rotation axis Y and rotatably around the aforesaid second rotation axis Y. Preferably, the second movement means 14 comprise at least one first linear actuator 47 (e.g. pneumatic) mechanically connected to the base portion 43 of the transport plate 25 and to the first rotary gripper 12 and arranged in order to move the first rotary gripper 12 inserted in the first guide seat 45 along the first rotation axis X, in particular close to or away from the first or second clamp 9, 10 in chaining position, and a second linear actuator 48 (e.g. pneumatic) mechanically connected to the base portion 43 of the transport plate 25 and to the second rotary gripper 13 and arranged in order to move the second rotary gripper 13 inserted in the second guide seat 46 along the second rotation axis Y, in particular close to or away from the first or second clamp 9, 10 in chaining position.

[0076] More in detail, the guide portion 44 and at least the first and the second linear actuator 47, 48 allow adjusting with precision the distance between the first and the second rotary gripper 12, 13 in meshing position with respect to the first or second clamp 9, 10 in chaining position along a direction parallel to the first and second rotation axes X, Y (which in particular are placed horizontal), in a manner such to facilitate the linking of a first or second ring 5, 6 by the same first or second rotary gripper 12, 13 on a ring of the cord chain retained by the first or second clamp 9, 10.

[0077] In addition, preferably, the first actuator member 26, the first actuation screw 41 and the first nut screw of the second movement means 14, in addition to allowing the selective placement of at least one between the first and the second rotary gripper 12, 13 in meshing position, can be employed for executing a fine adjustment of the distance between the first or second rotary gripper 12 in meshing position and the first or second clamp 9, 10 in chaining position along a direction transverse to the first and second rotation axis X, Y, in particular perpendicular to the first and second rotation axis X, Y and horizontal, always in order to facilitate the linking of a first or second ring 5, 6 on the cord chain.

[0078] In particular, the first linear actuator 47 is mechanically connected to the first rotary gripper 12 by means of a first carriage 49 and the first rotary gripper 12 also comprises a first rotary actuator 50 mounted on such first carriage 49, mechanically connected to the first support body 35' and arranged for rotating around the first rotation axis X the aforesaid first support body 35' rotatably inserted in the first guide seat 44.

[0079] Analogously, the second linear actuator 48 is advantageously mechanically connected to the second rotary gripper 13 by means of a second carriage 51 and the second rotary gripper 13 also comprises a second rotary actuator 52 mounted on such second carriage 51, mechanically connected to the second support body 35" and arranged for rotating around the second rotation axis Y the aforesaid second support body 35" rotatably inserted in the second guide seat 45.

[0080] Advantageously, the second movement means 14 comprise a support framework 61 and a support block 62, which carries, fixed thereto on the upper part, the abutment base 24 and is slidably associated with the support framework 61, in particular by means of second linear guides 63, along a movement direction T transverse to the first and second rotation axis X, Y respectively of the first and second rotary grippers 12, 13 and to the translation direction W of the transport plate 25.

[0081] Preferably, the movement direction T is perpendicular to the first and second rotation axes X, Y and to the translation direction W.

[0082] In particular, the first and second rotation axis X, Y preferably being parallel to each other and the translation direction W being perpendicular thereto and in turn horizontal, the movement direction T of the support block 62 with respect to the support framework 61 is preferably vertical.

[0083] Advantageously, the second movement means 14 comprise a third actuator member 65, e.g. a third electric motor, mechanically connected to the support framework 61 and to the support block 62 and arranged for translating the support block 62 with respect to the support framework 61 along the movement direction T.

[0084] In this manner, the support framework 61, the support block 62 and the third actuator member 65 allow translating the abutment base 24 (with which the transport plate 25 is slidably associated, carrying at least the first and the second rotary grippers 12, 13 mounted thereon) along a direction transverse to the first and second rotation axis X, Y and to the translation direction W, in order to adjust the distance between the first or second rotary gripper 12, 13 in meshing position with respect to the first or second clamp 9, 10 in chaining position, in particular along a vertical direction.

[0085] Preferably, the third actuator member 65 is fixed to the support framework 61 and is mechanically connected to the support block 62 by means of a second actuation screw (not illustrated), which is extended parallel to the movement direction T and is actuatable to rotate by the third actuator member 65 itself, and by a second nut screw (not illustrated) fixed to the support block 62 and coupled to the aforesaid second actuation screw.

[0086] In addition, the support framework 61 and the support block 62 are both provided on the upper part with a passage opening 68 traversed by the first actuation screw 41 placed below the abutment base 24, which is fixed above the support block 62 itself.

[0087] The present machine 1 also comprises at least one transport group 15, which is provided with at least one pair of first feed grippers 16 and at least one pair of second feed grippers 17, and each of such first and second feed grippers 16, 17 is operatively associated respectively with a first loader 3 and a second loader 4 of the feed group 2.

[0088] Such first and second feed grippers 16, 17 are actuatable between a grip configuration and an unconstrained configuration in order to retain and release respectively a first ring 5 and a second ring 6.

[0089] Preferably, the first and the second feed grippers 16, 17 are arranged for picking up respectively the first and the second rings 5, 6 from the corresponding first and second loaders 3, 4 with the chaining openings 7 oriented downward and in order to release the first and the second rings 5, 6 respectively to the first clamp 9 and to the first rotary gripper 12 and respectively to the second clamp 10 and to the second rotary gripper 13, always with the chaining openings 7 oriented downward.

[0090] Advantageously, as illustrated in particular in figure 10, each first feed gripper 16 comprises a third support body 69', two third rotatable jaws 70', which are hinged to the third support body 69' around a third rotation pin 71' in common and are movable in rotation around the aforesaid third rotation pin 71' in order to switch the first feed gripper 16 itself between the grip configuration and the unconstrained configuration, and third actuation means 72' arranged for rotating the aforesaid third rotatable jaws 70' around the third rotation pin 71'.

[0091] More in detail, each third rotatable jaw 70' comprises a third retention arm 73', which is extended starting from the third rotation pin 71' and is intended, in grip configuration, to be rotated close to the third retention arm 73' of the other third rotatable jaw 70' in order to retain a first ring 5 and, in unconstrained configuration, to be rotated away from the third retention arm 73' of the other third rotatable jaw 70' in order to release the aforesaid first ring 5, and a third actuation arm 74' opposite the third retention arm 73' with respect to the third rotation pin 71'.

[0092] In addition, the third actuation means 72' preferably comprise at least one third elastic element (not illustrated) mechanically connected to the third rotatable jaws 70' in order to maintain them rotated towards the unconstrained configuration and a third spreader body 75' slidably associated with the third support body 69' and movable between an interference position, in which it rotates the third actuation arms 74' away from each other in order to rotate, overcoming the action of the third elastic element, the third rotatable jaws 70' around the third rotation pin 71' towards the grip configuration, and a non-interference position, in which it does not interfere with the third actuation arms 74' in order to allow the third elastic element to maintain the third rotatable jaws 70' rotated in unconstrained configuration.

[0093] Analogous to the first feed grippers 16, each second feed gripper 17 preferably comprises a fourth support body 69", two fourth rotatable jaws 70", which are hinged to the fourth support body 69" around a fourth rotation pin 71" in common and are movable in rotation around the aforesaid fourth rotation pin 71" in order to switch the second feed gripper 17 itself between the grip configuration and the unconstrained configuration, and fourth actuation means 72" arranged for rotating the aforesaid fourth rotatable jaws 70" around the fourth rotation pin 71".

[0094] More in detail, each fourth rotatable jaw 70" comprises a fourth retention arm 73", which is extended starting from the fourth rotation pin 71" and is intended, in grip configuration, to be rotated close to the fourth retention arm 73" of the other fourth rotatable jaw 70" in order to retain a second ring 6 and, in unconstrained configuration, to be rotated away from the fourth retention arm 73" of the other fourth rotatable jaw 70" in order to release the aforesaid second ring 6, and a fourth actuation arm 74" opposite the fourth retention arm 73" with respect to the fourth rotation pin 71".

[0095] In addition, the fourth actuation means 72" preferably comprise at least one fourth elastic element (not illustrated) mechanically connected to the fourth rotatable jaws 70" in order to maintain them rotated towards the unconstrained configuration and a fourth spreader body 75" slidably associated with the fourth support body 69" and movable between an interference position, in which it rotates the fourth actuation arms 74" away from each other in order to rotate, overcoming the action of the fourth elastic element, the fourth rotatable jaws 70" around the fourth rotation pin 71" towards the grip configuration, and a non-interference position, in which it does not interfere with the fourth actuation arms 74" in order to allow the fourth elastic element to maintain the fourth rotatable jaws 70" rotated in unconstrained configuration.

[0096] Moreover, in addition to the pair of first feed grippers 16 and to the pair of second feed grippers 17, the feed group 15 preferably comprises pairs of additional feed grippers 76', 76", 76‴, which are in a number equal to the number of pairs of additional loaders 27', 27", 27‴, to the number of additional clamps 38', 38", 38‴ and of additional rotary grippers 39', 39", 39‴ and are operatively associated each with a corresponding pair of additional loaders 27', 27", 27‴ in order to retain, in grip configuration, a ring supplied by one of the additional loaders 27', 27", 27‴ of the corresponding pair. More in detail, the additional feed grippers 76', 76", 76‴ are structurally entirely similar to the first and second feed grippers 16, 17.

[0097] In particular, the arrangement of multiple pairs of loaders 3, 4, 27', 27", 27‴, of multiple pairs of feed grippers 16, 17, 76', 76", 76‴, of multiple clamps 9, 10, 38', 38", 38‴ and of multiple rotary grippers 12, 13, 39', 39", 39‴ allows producing multiple different models of cord chains, which are each formed by rings having a diameter different from the diameter of the rings with a different cord chain model, and/or "graduated" cord chains, i.e. having multiple sections, which are formed by rings having diameter different from the diameter of the rings of the other sections and are connected in sequence to each other at the ends thereof.

[0098] The present automated machine 1 also comprises third movement means 18 connected at least to the pairs of first and second feed grippers 16, 17 and arranged for moving them between a loading position, in which the first and the second feed grippers 16, 17 pick up at least one first or second ring 5, 6 from the respective pair of first and second loaders 3, 4, and an unloading position, in which the first or the second feed grippers 16, 17 release at least one first or second ring 5,6 respectively to a first or second clamp 9, 10 in chaining position and to a first or second rotary gripper 12, 13 in meshing position.

[0099] Preferably, the third movement means 18 are also connected to the further pairs of additional feed grippers 76', 76", 76‴ and are arranged for moving them, together with the pair of first feed grippers 16 and to the pair of second feed grippers 17, between the loading position, in which the additional feed grippers 76', 76", 76‴ pick up at least one ring from a corresponding pair of additional loaders 27', 27", 27‴, and an unloading position, in which the additional feed grippers 76', 76", 76‴ release at least one ring to a corresponding additional clamp 38', 38", 38‴ in chaining position and to a corresponding additional rotary gripper 39', 39", 39‴ in meshing position.

[0100] As illustrated in particular in figure 8, the third movement means 18 preferably comprise a support base 77 and a movable arm 78, which carries mounted thereon the pair of first feed grippers 16, the pair of second feed grippers 17, and preferably the pairs of additional feed grippers 76', 76", 76‴, and is slidably associated with the support base 77 along a transfer direction S in order to selectively bring one from among the pair of first feed grippers 16, the pair of second feed grippers 17 and possibly the pairs of additional feed grippers 76', 76", 76‴ between the loading position and the unloading position. Advantageously, the third movement means 18 comprise a fourth actuator member 79, for example a fourth electric motor, connected to the support base 77 and to the movable arm 78 and arranged for translating the movable arm 78 along the transfer direction S with respect to the support base 77. Preferably, the transfer direction S along which the movable arm 78 is slidable with respect to the support base 77 is substantially horizontal and, in particular, perpendicular to the first and second rotation axis X, Y respectively of the first and of the second rotary gripper 12, 13.

[0101] More in detail, the movable arm 78 is internally provided with a slide seat 80 extended along the transfer direction S and the support base 77 carries, fixed thereto, a sliding block 81 slidably inserted in the aforesaid slide seat 80.

[0102] In addition, preferably, the fourth actuator member is fixed to the movable arm 78 externally with respect to the slide seat 80 and is mechanically connected to the support base 77 by means of a third actuation screw 82 extended parallel to the transfer direction S within the slide seat 80, actuatable to rotate by the fourth actuator member 78 itself and engaged in a threaded hole made on the sliding block 81, which acts therefore by nut screw.

[0103] In order to facilitate the pick-up, in loading position, of the first and second rings 5, 6 by the pair of first feed grippers 16 and the second feed grippers 17 and the release, in unloading position, of the aforesaid first and second rings 5, 6, the movable arm 18 is provided with an operative head 83 slidably carrying, mounted thereon, each first feed gripper 16 and each second feed gripper 17 along a corresponding movement direction transverse to the transfer direction S of the movable arm 78 between an engagement configuration, in particular lowered, and a disengagement configuration, in particular lifted.

[0104] In particular, the movement direction of each first and second feed gripper 16, 17 is vertical.

[0105] In particular, in loading position, the first or the second grippers 16, 17 are movable from the disengagement configuration to the engagement configuration in order to be moved close to the respective first or second loaders 3, 4, thus facilitating the pick-up of the first or second rings 5, 6, and from the engagement configuration to the disengagement configuration in order to be moved away from the respective first or second loaders 3, 4, following the pick-up of the first or second rings 5, 6.

[0106] In addition, preferably, in unloading position, the first or the second grippers 16, 17 are movable from the disengagement configuration to the engagement configuration in order to be moved close to the respective first clamp 9 and first rotary gripper 12 or second clamp 10 and second rotary gripper 13, thus facilitating the release of the first or second rings 5, 6, and from the engagement configuration to the disengagement configuration in order to be moved away from the respective first clamp 9 and first rotary gripper 12 or second clamp 10 and second rotary gripper 13, following the release of the first or second rings 5, 6.

[0107] Preferably, the third movement means 18 comprise a third linear actuator 86 (e.g. pneumatic) mechanically connected to each first feed gripper 16 and to the operative head 83 of the movable arm 78 and arranged in order to move the corresponding first feed gripper 16 between the engagement configuration and the disengagement configuration independent of the other first feed gripper 16. Analogously, the third movement means 18 preferably comprise a fourth linear actuator 87 (e.g. pneumatic) mechanically connected to each second feed gripper 17 and to the operative head 83 of the movable arm 78 and arranged in order to move the corresponding second feed gripper 17 between the engagement configuration and the disengagement configuration independent of the other second feed gripper 17.

[0108] Advantageously, the pair of first feed grippers 16 comprises a first operative feed gripper 16' and a first auxiliary feed gripper 16", which are preferably placed side-by-side each other, in particular at a distance equal to the distance between the first pick-up ends 55' of the first loaders 3 and equal to the distance between the chaining position and the meshing position, in a manner such that the third movement means 18 can bring the first operative feed gripper 16' and the first auxiliary feed gripper 16" together in loading position and in unloading position.

[0109] In particular, the first operative feed gripper 16', in unloading position, is placed at the chaining position and is arranged for inserting a first ring 5, through the corresponding chaining opening 7, on a ring of the cord chain retained by one between at least the first and the second clamp 9, 10 in chaining position.

[0110] More in detail, the first operative feed gripper 16' is arranged for inserting a first ring 5 with the chaining opening 7 thereof directed downward on a ring of the cord chain having the opening thereof directed upward.

[0111] In order to insert the first ring 5 on a ring of the cord chain retained by the first or second clamp 9, 10 in chaining position, the first operative feed gripper 16' is arranged for being moved by the corresponding third linear actuator 86 from the disengagement configuration, in which it is placed above the first or second clamp 9, 10 in chaining position, to the engagement configuration, in which it is brought close to the first or second clamp 9, 10 in chaining position.

[0112] In addition, the first auxiliary feed gripper 16" is advantageously operatively associated with the first rotary gripper 12 and, in unloading position, is placed at the meshing position and is arranged for transferring a first ring 5 to the first rotary gripper 12 in meshing position.

[0113] In particular, the first auxiliary feed gripper 16" is arranged for transferring a first ring 5 with the chaining opening 7 directed downward to the first rotary gripper 12, which is arranged for rotating around the first rotation axis X in order to orient the aforesaid first ring 5 with the chaining opening upward and link such first ring 5 with a ring of the cord chain having the chaining opening directed downward. Advantageously, the pair of second feed grippers 17 comprises a second operative feed gripper 17' and a second auxiliary feed gripper 17", which are preferably placed side-by-side each other, in particular at a distance equal to the distance between the second pick-up ends 55" of the second loaders 4 and equal to the distance between the chaining position and the meshing position, in a manner such that the third movement means 18 can bring the second operative feed gripper 17' and the second auxiliary feed gripper 17" together in loading position and in unloading position.

[0114] In particular, the second operative feed gripper 17', in unloading position, is placed at the chaining position and is arranged for inserting a second ring 6, through the corresponding chaining opening 7, on a ring of the cord chain retained by one between at least the first and the second clamp 9, 10 in chaining position.

[0115] More in detail, the second operative feed gripper 17' is arranged for inserting a second ring 6 with the chaining opening 7 thereof directed downward on a ring of the cord chain having the chaining opening thereof directed upward.

[0116] In order to insert the second ring 6 on a ring of the cord chain retained by the first or second clamp 9, 10 in chaining position, the second operative feed gripper 17' is arranged for being moved by the corresponding fourth linear actuator 87 from the disengagement configuration, in which it is placed above the first or second clamp 9, 10 in chaining position, to the engagement configuration, in which it is brought close to the first or second clamp 9, 10 in chaining position.

[0117] In addition, the second auxiliary feed gripper 17" is advantageously operatively associated with the first rotary gripper 12 and, in unloading position, is placed at the meshing position and is arranged for transferring a second ring 6 to the second rotary gripper 13 in meshing position.

[0118] In particular, the second auxiliary feed gripper 17" is arranged for transferring a second ring 6 with the chaining opening 7 thereof directed downward to the second rotary gripper 13, which is arranged for rotating around the second rotation axis Y in order to orient the aforesaid second ring 6 with the chaining opening 7 upward and link such second ring 6 to a ring of the cord chain having the chaining opening directed downward.

[0119] Advantageously, the chaining station 8 comprises welding means, in particular laser, which are arranged for welding at least one first or second ring 5, 6, released by a first or second feed gripper 16, 17 to the first or second clamp 9, 10, to a ring of the cord chain, retained by the aforesaid first or second clamp 9, 10 in chaining position.

[0120] More in detail, the aforesaid welding means are arranged for welding at least the first or second ring 5, 6 inserted, with the chaining opening 7 thereof oriented downward, by the first or second operative feed gripper 16', 17' at a ring having the chaining opening thereof oriented upward and belonging to the cord chain retained by the aforesaid first or second clamp 9, 10 in chaining position.

[0121] Advantageously, the first and the second clamp 9, 10 are each actuatable to rotate respectively around a first tilt axis U and a second tilt axis V, which are transverse to the first and second rotation axis X, Y of the first and of the second rotary gripper 12, 13, in order to adjust the angular position of the first and second clamp 9, 10 with respect to a corresponding first and second feed gripper 16, 17.

[0122] More in detail, the first and the second tilt axis U, V are preferably vertical and, thus, parallel to the movement direction of the first and second feed grippers 16, 17.

[0123] In particular, with the first clamp 9 in chaining position and the first operative feed gripper 16' in unloading position, the first tilt axis U of the first clamp 9 is substantially aligned with the movement direction of the first operative feed gripper 16'.

[0124] In addition, preferably, with the second clamp 10 in chaining position and the second operative feed gripper 17' in unloading position, the second tilt axis V of the second clamp 10 is substantially aligned with the movement direction of the second operative feed gripper 17'.

[0125] In this manner, the first and the second clamp 9, 10 can rotate in order to misalign the ring of the cord chain retained thereby in chaining position with respect to the first or second ring 5, 6 retained by the first or second operative feed gripper 16', 17' in unloading position and thus facilitate the insertion, through the feed opening 7 oriented downward, of the aforesaid first or second ring 5, 6 on the ring of the cord chain having the chaining opening 7 directed upward.

[0126] In accordance with the preferred embodiment illustrated in the enclosed figures, the first and the second clamp 9, 10 are respectively provided with a first support shaft 21 and with a second support shaft 22, which are rotatably mounted on the rotary carousel 19 respectively around the first tilt axis U thereof and around the second tilt axis V thereof parallel to the revolution axis Z of the rotary carousel 19.

[0127] In addition, the second movement means 14 comprising an actuator apparatus 23 mechanically connected to the rotary carousel 19 and to the first and second support shaft 21, 22 and arranged for rotating the first and the second support shaft 21, 22 respectively around the first and second tilt axes U, V thereof in order to adjust the angular position of the first and second clamps 9, 10 around the respective first and second tilt axes U, V.

[0128] More in detail, the first and the second support shaft 21,22 are made in a single body with or carry fixed thereto respectively the first and the second support body 28' 28". Preferably, the first actuation means 31' comprise a first piston 88 mechanically connected to the rotary carousel 19 and to the first spreader body 34' and arranged for translating the aforesaid first spreader body 34' between the interference position and the non-interference position with respect to the first support body 28' and the second actuation means 31" comprise a second piston 89 mechanically connected to the rotary carousel 19 and to the second spreader body 34" and arranged for translating the aforesaid second spreader body 34' between the interference position and the non-interference position with respect to the second support body 28'. In particular, the first and the second support shaft 21, 22 are respectively provided with a first and a second hollow seat carrying, slidably inserted therein, respectively the first and the second spreader body 34' 34", in a manner such that these are supported in sliding with respect to the corresponding first and second support body 28', 28" between the interference position and the non-interference position. Preferably, the actuator apparatus 23 comprises an actuation pinion 84 rotatably mounted on the rotary carousel 19 around an actuation axis substantially coinciding with the revolution axis Z of the rotary carousel 19 itself, a first toothed wheel (not illustrated) fit on the first support shaft 21 of the first clamp 9 and engaged with the actuation pinion 84, a second toothed wheel (not illustrated) fit on the second support shaft 22 of the second clamp 10 and engaged with the actuation pinion 84, and a fifth actuator member (not illustrated) mechanically connected to the rotary carousel 19 and to the actuation pinion 84 and arranged for rotating the aforesaid actuation pinion 84 around the actuation axis thereof with respect to the rotary carousel 19.

[0129] Advantageously, the present automated machine 1 comprises an electronic control unit operatively connected at least to the first and to the second clamp 9, 10, to the first movement means 11, to the first and to the second rotary gripper 12, 13, to the second movement means 14, to the pairs of first and second feed grippers 16, 17 and to the third movement means 18.

[0130] More in detail, the electronic control unit is arranged for driving the first and the second clamp 9, 10 to switch between the closed configuration and the open configuration and for driving the first movement means 11 to selectively place one between at least the first and the second clamp 9, 10 at the chaining position.

[0131] In addition, the aforesaid electronic control unit is preferably arranged for driving the first and the second rotary gripper 12, 13 to switch between the retention configuration and the release configuration and to rotate respectively around the first and second rotation axes X, Y thereof and for driving the second movement means 14 to selectively place one between the first and the second rotary gripper 12, 13 at the meshing position.

[0132] Such electronic control unit is also preferably arranged for driving the pairs of first and second feed grippers 16, 17 to switch between the grip configuration and the unconstrained configuration and for driving the third movement means 18 to move the pairs of first and second feed grippers 16, 17 between the loading position and the unloading position.

[0133] More in detail, the electronic control unit being operatively connected to the first, to the second and to the third movement means 11, 14, 18, it is possible to produce, by means of the present automated machine 1, different models of cord chains (i.e. provided with rings having diameter different from model to model) simply by arranging one of the clamps 9, 10, 38', 38", 38‴ in chaining position, a corresponding rotary gripper 12, 13, 39', 39", 39‴ in meshing position and repeatedly moving the corresponding between the pairs of feed grippers 16, 17, 76', 76", 76'" between the loading position and the unloading position.

[0134] In particular, in order to change the type of cord chain to be produced, it is sufficient to change the clamps 9, 10, 38', 38", 38‴ which operate in chaining position by rotating the rotary carousel 19 by means of the actuation of the first actuator member 20 by the electronic control unit, changing the rotary grippers 12, 13, 39', 39", 39‴ which operate in meshing position, translating the transport plate 25 by means of the actuation of the second actuator member 26 by the electronic control unit and moving between the loading and unloading position the pairs of feed grippers 16, 17, 76', 76", 76‴ corresponding to the clamp 9, 10, 38', 38", 38‴ in chaining position and to the rotary gripper 12, 13, 39', 39", 39‴ in meshing position by means of the actuation of the fourth actuator member 79, always by the electronic control unit. This allows, with only the automated machine 1, exchanging the production in a simple and quick manner, in particular without having to execute hard operations of re-equipping the automated machine 1 itself and without long down times of the production.

[0135] Therefore, the present automated machine 1 allows, by means of electronic management, automatically making any one type of cord chain and in particular "graduated" cord chains of any size. Indeed, it is possible to make the automated machine 1 produce in sequence multiple sections of cord chain (such sections are connected at the ends thereof and each formed by rings having a pre-established diameter different from the diameter of the rings of another section), by simply setting the electronic control unit for driving the actuation of the corresponding clamps 9, 10, 38', 38", 38‴, rotary grippers 12, 13, 39', 39", 39‴ and pairs of feed grippers 16, 17, 76', 76", 76‴ according to the production requirements.

[0136] In particular, the automated machine 1 allows the automatic production of "graduated" cord chains by means of setting by the operator of the control unit. More in detail, setting the order of the diameter of the rings and the number of rings having a same diameter which one wishes to link in sequence, the electronic control unit manages in an automated manner the operation of the different clamps 9, 10, 38', 38", 38‴, of the different rotary grippers 12, 13, 39', 39", 39‴ and of the different pairs of feed grippers 16, 17, 76', 76", 76‴ in order to pass from the production of one section of cord chain to the production of another section of cord chain connected to the latter and having rings of different diameter. Advantageously, the electronic control unit of the present automated machine 1 comprises at least one electronic control unit, e.g. PLC, programmable for driving in an automated manner the operation of the clamps 9, 10, 38', 38", 38‴, of the rotary grippers 12, 13, 39', 39", 39'" and of the pairs of feed grippers 16, 17, 76', 76", 76‴.

[0137] Also forming the object of the present finding is a process for producing chains actuated by means of the automated machine 1 of the above-described type, regarding which the reference numbers will be maintained for the sake of description simplicity.

[0138] In accordance with the idea underlying the present invention, the present process comprises in sequence multiple first chaining operations executed by means of the pair of first feed grippers 16, the first clamp 9 and the first rotary gripper 12. Each first chaining operation comprises a first pick-up step, in which the third movement means 18 carry the pair of first feed grippers 16 at the loading position and the first feed grippers 16 are switched into grip configuration in order to pick up two corresponding first rings 5 from the respective first loaders 3.

[0139] In particular, in order to facilitate the pick-up of the two first rings 5, before the first feed grippers 16 are switched into grip configuration, the first feed grippers 16 are translated from the disengagement configuration to the engagement configuration by the corresponding third linear actuators 86 and the first actuation plates 60' are actuated to translate along the corresponding main lifting directions, in particular upward, in order to separate the first rings 5 respectively from the first wide portions 56'.

[0140] In addition, the first chaining operation comprises a first transport step, in which the third movement means 18 carry the pair of first feed grippers 16 at the unloading position.

[0141] The first chaining operation also comprises a first insertion step, in which the first operative feed gripper 16' inserts a first ring 5, through the chaining opening 7 thereof, on a first ring 5 of the cord chain retained by the first clamp 9 at the chaining position and is switched into the unconstrained configuration in order to release the corresponding first ring 5 on the cord chain.

[0142] More in detail, the first clamp 9 retains in chaining position the cord chain, maintaining it grasped at the first ring 5 on which the first operative feed gripper 16' inserts the first ring 5.

[0143] In addition, the first operative feed gripper 16' preferably inserts the first ring 5 thereof with the chaining opening 7 oriented downward on the first ring 5 of the cord chain having the chaining opening oriented upward.

[0144] Advantageously, in the first insertion step, before the first operative feed gripper 16' inserts the first ring 5 thereof, the first clamp 9 is actuated to rotate in a first rotation sense around the first tilt axis U in order to tilt the first ring 5 of the cord chain by a first misalignment angle with respect to the first ring 5 retained by the same first feed gripper 16', which is subsequently made to translate from the disengagement configuration to the engagement configuration by the corresponding third linear actuator in order to insert the two first rings 5, one within the other, through the corresponding chaining openings 7.

[0145] Advantageously, the first chaining operation comprises a first welding step, in which the welding means are actuate in order to weld together the first ring 5 inserted by the first operative feed gripper 16' and the first ring 5 of the cord chain retained by the first clamp 9 in chaining position.

[0146] The first chaining operation also comprises a first transfer step, in which the first rotary gripper 12, in the meshing position, is switched into retention configuration in order to grasp respectively a first ring 5 from the corresponding first auxiliary feed gripper 16" and the aforesaid first auxiliary feed gripper 16" is switched into unconstrained configuration.

[0147] Preferably, the first insertion step and the first transfer step are substantially simultaneous with each other. In addition, the first chaining operation comprises a first meshing step, in which the first rotary gripper 12 rotates around the first rotation axis X thereof, orienting the chaining opening 7 of the first ring 5 and linking the first ring 5 to the first ring 5 inserted in the first insertion step.

[0148] More in detail, in the first meshing step, the first rotary gripper 12 rotates around the first rotation axis X thereof up to orienting upward the chaining opening 7 of the first ring 5 retained thereby, and links the latter with the first ring 5 inserted in the first insertion step and having the chaining opening 7 thereof oriented downward.

[0149] Advantageously, the first meshing step provides that, before the rotation of the first rotary gripper 12 around the first rotation axis X, in order to orient and link the corresponding first ring 5 received by the first auxiliary feed gripper 16', the first clamp 9 is actuated to rotate in a second rotation sense opposite the first rotation sense around the first tilt axis U in order to tilt the first ring 5 of the cord chain by a first alignment angle having the same extension as the first misalignment angle.

[0150] In addition, the first chaining operation comprises a first mesh change step, in which the first clamp 9 is switched into open configuration in order to release the cord chain to the first rotary gripper 12, in particular hung from the latter at the first ring 5 linked in the first meshing step.

[0151] Advantageously, in the aforesaid first mesh change step, following the switching in open configuration of the first clamp 9, the first rotary gripper 12 is made to translate along the movement direction T by means of the third actuator member 65 in order to bring the first ring 5 linked in the first meshing step substantially to the same height as the first clamp 9.

[0152] The first mesh change step also provides that the first clamp 9 be switched into closed configuration in order to grasp the cord chain from the first rotary gripper 12 at the first ring 5 linked in the first meshing step and that the first rotary gripper 12 be switched into release configuration in order to transfer the aforesaid cord chain to the first clamp 9.

[0153] In this manner, the aforesaid first ring 5 linked in the first meshing step is grasped by the first clamp 9 in chaining position in order to support the cord chain and becomes the first ring 5 with chaining opening 7 oriented upward on which, in the first insertion step of the subsequent first chaining operation, a next first ring 5 will be inserted by the first operative feed gripper 16'.

[0154] More in detail, each first chaining operation allows linking to the cord chain two new first rings 5.

[0155] In particular, the repetition of multiple first chaining operations in sequence allows producing a cord chain having first rings 5 with the same first diameter or a section of "graduated" cord chain having first rings 5 with the same first diameter and intended to be connected to another section having rings of different diameter.

[0156] In addition, in order to produce cord chains having second rings 6 provided with the same second diameter or sections of "graduated" cord chains having second rings 6 with the same second diameter and intended to be connected to other sections having rings of different diameter, the present process advantageously comprises in sequence multiple second chaining operations executed by means of the pair of second feed grippers 17, the second clamp 10 and the second rotary gripper 13. Each second chaining operation comprises a second pick-up step, in which the third movement means 18 carry the pair of second feed grippers 17 at the loading position and the second feed grippers 17 are switched into grip configuration in order to pick up two corresponding second rings 6 from the respective second loaders 4. In particular, in order to facilitate the pick-up of the two second rings 6, before the second feed grippers 17 are switched into grip configuration, the first feed grippers 17 are made to translate from the disengagement configuration to the engagement configuration by the corresponding fourth linear actuators 87 and the second actuation plates are actuated to translate along the corresponding main lifting directions, in particular upward, in order to separate the second rings 6 respectively from the second wide portions 56".

[0157] In addition, the second chaining operation comprises a second transport step, in which the third movement means 18 carry the pair of second feed grippers 17 at the unloading position.

[0158] The second chaining operation also comprises a second insertion step, in which the second operative feed gripper 17' inserts a second ring 6, through the chaining opening 7 thereof, on a second ring 6 of the cord chain retained by the second clamp 10 at the chaining position and is switched into the unconstrained configuration in order to release the corresponding second ring 6 on the cord chain.

[0159] More in detail, the second clamp 10 retains in chaining position the cord chain, maintaining it grasped at the second ring 6 on which the second operative feed gripper 17' inserts the second ring 6.

[0160] In addition, the second operative feed gripper 17' preferably inserts the second ring 6 thereof with the chaining opening 7 oriented downward on the second ring 6 of the cord chain having the chaining opening 7 oriented upward.

[0161] Advantageously, in the second insertion step, before the second operative feed gripper 17' inserts the second ring 6 thereof, the second clamp 10 is actuated to rotate in a first rotation sense around the second tilt axis V in order to tilt the second ring 6 of the cord chain by a second misalignment angle with respect to the second ring 6 retained by the same second feed gripper 17', which is subsequently made to translate from the disengagement configuration to the engagement configuration by the corresponding fourth linear actuator 87 in order to insert the two second rings 6 within one another through the corresponding chaining openings 7.

[0162] Advantageously, the second chaining operation comprises a second welding step, in which the welding means are actuated to weld together the second ring 6 inserted by the second operative feed gripper 17' and the second ring 6 of the cord chain retained by the second clamp 10 in chaining position.

[0163] The second chaining operation also comprises a second transfer step, in which the second rotary gripper 13, in the meshing position, is switched into retention configuration in order to grasp respectively a second ring 6 from the corresponding second auxiliary feed gripper 17" and the aforesaid second auxiliary feed gripper 17" is switched into unconstrained configuration.

[0164] Preferably, the second insertion step and the second transfer step are substantially simultaneous with each other.

[0165] In addition, the second chaining operation comprises a second meshing step, in which the second rotary gripper 13 rotates around the second rotation axis Y, orienting the chaining opening 7 of the second ring 6 and linking the second ring 6 to the second ring 6 inserted in the first insertion step.

[0166] More in detail, in the second meshing step, the second rotary gripper 13 rotates around the second rotation axis Y thereof up to orienting upward the chaining opening 7 of the second ring 6 retained thereby and links the latter to the second ring 6 inserted in the second insertion step and having the chaining opening 7 thereof oriented downward.

[0167] Advantageously, the second meshing step provides that, before the rotation of the second rotary gripper 13 around the second rotation axis Y in order to orient and link the corresponding second ring 6 received by the second auxiliary feed gripper 17", the second clamp 10 is actuated to rotate in a second rotation sense opposite the first rotation sense around the second tilt axis V in order to tilt the second ring 6 of the cord chain by a second alignment angle having the same extension of the second misalignment angle.

[0168] In addition, the second chaining operation comprises a second mesh change step, in which the second clamp 10 is switched into open configuration in order to release the cord chain at the second rotary gripper 13, in particular hung from the latter at the second ring 6 linked in the second meshing step. Advantageously, in the aforesaid second mesh change step, following the switching into open configuration of the second clamp 10, the second rotary gripper 13 is made to translate along the movement direction T by means of the third actuator member 65 in order to bring the second ring 6 linked in the second meshing step substantially at the same height as the second clamp 10.

[0169] The second mesh change step also provides that the second clamp 10 be switched into closed configuration in order to grasp the cord chain by the second rotary gripper 13 at the second ring 6 linked in the second meshing step and that the second rotary gripper 13 be switched into release configuration in order to transfer the aforesaid cord chain to the second clamp 10.

[0170] In this manner, the aforesaid second ring 6 linked in the second meshing step is grasped by the second clamp 10 in chaining position in order to support the cord chain and becomes the second ring 6 with chaining opening 7 oriented upward on which, in the second insertion step of the subsequent second chaining operation, a next second ring 6 is inserted by the second operative feed gripper 17'.

[0171] More in detail, each second chaining operation allows linking two new second rings 6 to the cord chain. In order to produce a "graduated" cord chain provided with a first section formed by first rings 5 and with a second section formed by second rings 6 and joined at one end thereof to one end of the aforesaid first section, the present process advantageously comprises a change operation between the first chaining operations in sequence and the second chaining operations in sequence.

[0172] More in detail, such change operation provides for a rotary gripper change step, in which the second movement means 14 remove the first rotary gripper 9 from the meshing position and place the second rotary gripper 10 in meshing position.

[0173] Advantageously, in the rotary gripper change step of the change operation, the second actuator member 26 of the second movement means 14 make the transport plate 25 translate with respect to the abutment base 24 along the translation direction W in order to remove the first rotary gripper 12 from the meshing position and place the second rotary gripper 13 in meshing position.

[0174] In addition, the change operation preferably provides for a third pick-up step, in which the third movement means 18 carry at least the second auxiliary feed gripper 17" of the pair of second feed grippers 17 at the loading position and at least the aforesaid second auxiliary feed gripper 17" is switched into grip configuration in order to pick up a corresponding second ring 6 from the respective second loader 4.

[0175] Preferably, a third transport step is also provided for, in which the third movement means 18 carry at least the second auxiliary feed gripper 17" at the unloading position.

[0176] In addition, the change operation preferably comprises a third transfer step, in which the second rotary gripper 13, in meshing position, is switched into retention configuration in order to grasp respectively the second ring 6 from the second auxiliary feed gripper 17" and the second auxiliary feed gripper 17" is switched into unconstrained configuration.

[0177] In addition, the change operation advantageously provides for a third meshing step, in which the corresponding second rotary gripper 13 rotates around the second rotation axis Y thereof, linking the second ring 6 to a first ring 5 of the cord chain retained by the first clamp 9 at the chaining position. More in detail, in the third meshing step, the second rotary gripper 13 rotates around the second rotation axis Y thereof up to orienting upward the chaining opening 7 of the second ring 6 retained thereby and links the latter to a first ring 5 of the cord chain having the chaining opening 7 thereof oriented downward.

[0178] The change operation also provides for a release step, in which the first clamp 9 is switched into open configuration in order to release the cord chain at the second rotary gripper 13, and such cord chain, in particular, remains hung by means of the second ring 6 linked in the third meshing step.

[0179] A clamp change step is also provided for in the change operation, in which the first movement means 11 remove the first clamp 9 from the chaining position and place the second clamp 10 in chaining position. Preferably, in the clamp change step of the change operation, the first actuator member 20 of the first movement means 11 rotates the rotary carousel 19 around the revolution axis Z in order to remove the first clamp 9 from the chaining position and place the second clamp 10 in the chaining position. Preferably, the change operation comprises a grip step, in which the second clamp 10 is switched into closed configuration in order to grasp the cord chain from the second rotary gripper 13 at the second ring 6 linked in the third meshing step and the second rotary gripper 13 is switched into release configuration in order to transfer the cord chain to the second clamp 10.

[0180] In this manner, the aforesaid second ring 6 linked in the third meshing step to a first ring 5 of the cord chain is grasped by the second clamp 10 in chaining position in order to support the cord chain and the second ring 6 with chaining opening 7 oriented upward on which, in the second insertion step of the second chaining operation just after the change operation, a next second ring 6 is inserted by the second operative feed gripper 17'.

[0181] Advantageously, the present process comprises at least one starting operation preceding the first chaining operations in sequence.

[0182] More in detail, the starting operation provides for a fourth pick-up step, in which the third movement means 18 carry at least the first auxiliary feed gripper 16" of the pair of first feed grippers 16 at the loading position and at least the first auxiliary feed gripper 16" is switched into grip configuration in order to pick up a corresponding first ring 5 from the respective first loader 3.

[0183] In addition, the starting operation preferably comprises a fourth transport step, in which the third movement means 18 carry at least the first auxiliary feed gripper 16" at the unloading position.

[0184] Preferably, in addition, in the starting operation, a fourth transfer step is provided for, in which the first rotary gripper 12, in the meshing position, is switched into retention configuration in order to grasp respectively the first ring 5 from the first auxiliary feed gripper 16" and the first auxiliary feed gripper 16" is switched into unconstrained configuration, and an orientation step, in which the corresponding first rotary gripper 12 rotates around the first rotation axis X thereof, orienting the chaining opening 7 of the first ring 5, in particular upward.

[0185] In addition, the starting operation preferably comprises a ring passage step, in which the first clamp 9 is switched into closed configuration in order to grasp, from the first rotary gripper 12, said first ring 5 oriented in orientation step and the first rotary gripper 12 is switched into release configuration in order to transfer the aforesaid first ring 5 to the first clamp 10.

[0186] In this manner, by means of a starting operation, multiple first chaining operations in sequence, a change operation and multiple second chaining operations in sequence it is possible to produce a "graduated" cord chain provided with a first section of first rings 5 and with a second section of second rings 6 in sequence connected at ends thereof.

[0187] Indeed, the starting operation allows supplying, to the first clamp 9 in chaining position, an oriented first ring 5, in particular with the chaining opening 7 upward. In addition, the first chaining operations in sequence allow each to link two first rings 5 starting from the first ring 5 supplied to the first clamp 9 in the starting operation, in order to attain a first section formed by first rings 5 and having a desired length. The change operation also allows linking an oriented second ring 6, in particular with the chaining opening 7 upward, to the first ring 5 placed at the end of the first section of cord chain and placing the second clamp 10 in chaining position in place of the first clamp 9 and the second rotary gripper 13 in meshing position in place of the second rotary gripper 13. Subsequently, the second chaining operations in sequence allow attaining the second section of cord chain formed by second rings 6 starting from the second ring 6 joined in the change operation to the first section of cord chain.

[0188] The invention thus conceived therefore attains the pre-established objects.

Claims

1. Automated machine for producing cord chains, which is characterized in that it comprises:

- at least one feed group (2), which is provided with at least one pair of first loaders (3) and with a pair of second loaders (4); said first and said second loaders (3, 4) being adapted to respectively provide first rings (5) each having a first diameter and a chaining opening (7) and second rings (6) each having a second diameter different from said first diameter and in turn a chaining opening (7), and said first and second rings (5, 6) are intended to be inserted one inside the other through said chaining openings (7) in order to attain multiple pairs of said first and second rings (5, 6) linked together in sequence and adapted to form one said cord chain;

- at least one chaining station (8), which comprises:

- at least one first clamp (9) and one second clamp (10), which are actuatable between a closed configuration and an open configuration in order to retain and free respectively one of said first and second rings (5, 6) of said cord chain at a chaining position;

- first movement means (11) connected to each of said at least one first and one second clamp (9, 10) and arranged in order to selectively place one of said at least one first and one second clamp (9, 10) at said chaining position;

- at least one first rotary gripper (12) and one second rotary gripper (13), which are actuatable between a retention configuration and a release configuration in order to retain and release respectively one of said first and second rings (5, 6) at a meshing position adjacent to said chaining position;
said first and second rotary grippers (12, 13) being actuatable to rotate around a respective first rotation axis (X) and second rotation axis (Y) in order to orient the chaining opening (7) of the corresponding first and second ring (5, 6) and link the corresponding said first and second ring (5, 6) with a ring of said cord chain supported by said first clamp (9) or second clamp (10) in said chaining position;

- second movement means (14) connected to each of said at least one first and one second rotary gripper (12, 13) and arranged in order to selectively place one of said at least one first and one second rotary gripper (12, 13) at said meshing position;

- at least one transport group (15), which is provided with:

- at least one pair of first feed grippers (16) and at least one pair of second feed grippers (17), and each of said first and second feed grippers (16, 17) is operatively associated respectively with a first loader (3) and a second loader (4) of said feed group (2);
the first and second feed grippers (16, 17) being actuatable between a grip configuration and an unconstrained configuration in order to retain and release respectively one said first ring (5) and one said second ring (6);

- third movement means (18) connected to said pairs of first and second feed grippers (16, 17) and arranged in order to move them between a loading position, in which said first and said second feed grippers (16, 17) pick up at least one said first or second ring (5, 6) from the respective said pair of first and second loaders (3, 4), and an unloading position, in which said first or said second feed grippers (16, 17) release at least one said first or second ring (5, 6) respectively to one said first or second clamp (9, 10) in said chaining position and to one said first or second rotary gripper (12, 13) in said meshing position.

2. Automated machine according to claim 1, characterized in that said pair of first feed grippers (16) comprises:

- a first operative feed gripper (16'), which, in said unloading position, is placed at said chaining position and is arranged in order to insert one said first ring (5), through the corresponding said chaining opening (7), on one ring of said cord chain retained by one between at least said first and second clamps (9, 10) in said chaining position;

- and a first auxiliary feed gripper (16"), which is operatively associated with said first rotary gripper (12) and, in said unloading position, is placed at said meshing position and is arranged in order to transfer one said first ring (5) to said first rotary gripper (12) in said meshing position;

said pair of second feed grippers (17) comprising:

- a second operative feed gripper (17'), which, in said unloading position, is placed at said chaining position and is arranged for inserting one said second ring (6), through the corresponding said chaining opening (7), on one ring of said cord chain retained by one between at least said first or second clamp (9, 10) in said chaining position;

- and a second auxiliary feed gripper (17"), which is operatively associated with said second rotary gripper (13) and, in said unloading position, is placed at said meshing position and is arranged for transferring one said second ring (6) to said second rotary gripper (13) in said meshing position.

3. Automated machine according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it comprises an electronic control unit operatively connected at least to said first and second clamps (9, 10), to said first movement means (11), to said first and second rotary grippers (12, 13), to said second movement means (14), to said pairs of first and second feed grippers (16, 17) and to said third movement means (18);
said electronic control unit being arranged for:

- driving said first and second clamps (9, 10) to switch between said closed configuration and said open configuration;

- driving said first movement means (11) to selectively place one between at least said first and second clamps (9, 10) at said chaining position;

- driving said first and second rotary grippers (12, 13) to switch between said retention configuration and said release configuration and to respectively rotate around said first and second rotation axes (X, Y) thereof;

- driving said second movement means (14) to selectively place one between said first and second rotary grippers (12, 13) at said meshing position;

- driving said pairs of first and second feed grippers (16, 17) to switch between said grip configuration and said unconstrained configuration;

- driving said third movement means (18) to move said pairs of first and second feed grippers (16, 17) between said loading position and said unloading position.

4. Automated machine according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first movement means (11) of said chaining station (8) comprise:

- a rotary carousel (19) carrying, peripherally mounted thereon, at least said first clamp (9) and said second clamp (10) and rotatable around a revolution axis (Z) thereof in order to selectively bring, to said chaining position, at least one between said first clamp (9) and said second clamp (10);

- a first actuator member (20) mechanically connected to said rotary carousel (19) and arranged for rotating said rotary carousel (19) around said revolution axis (Z).

5. Automated machine according to claim 4, characterized in that said first and second clamps (9, 10) are respectively provided with a first support shaft (21) and with a second support shaft (22), which are rotatably mounted on said rotary carousel (19) respectively around a first tilt axis (U) thereof and second tilt axis (V) thereof parallel to the revolution axis (Z) of said rotary carousel (19);
said second movement means (14) comprising an actuator apparatus (23) mechanically connected to said rotary carousel (19) and to said first and second support shafts (21, 22) and arranged for rotating said first and second support shafts (21, 22) respectively around said first and second tilt axes (U, V) thereof in order to adjust the angular position of said first and second clamps (9, 10) around the respective said first and second tilt axes (U, V).

6. Automated machine according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second movement means (14) of said chaining station (8) comprise:

- at least one abutment base (24);

- a transport plate (25), which carries, rotatably mounted thereon, at least said first rotary gripper (12) and said second rotary gripper (13) around the corresponding said first rotation axis (X) and second rotation axis (Y) and is slidably associated with said abutment base along a translation direction (W) transverse to said first and second rotation axes (X, Y) in order to selectively bring to said meshing position at least one between said first rotary gripper (12) and said second rotary gripper (13);

- at least one second actuator member (26) mechanically connected to said abutment base (24) and to said transport plate (25) and arranged for translating said transport plate (25) with respect to said abutment base (24) along said translation direction (W).

7. Process for producing cord chains actuated by means of an automated machine (1) according to any one of the claims from 2 to 6, characterized in that it comprises in sequence multiple first chaining operations executed by means of said pair of first feed grippers (16), said first clamp (9) and said first rotary gripper (12);
each said first chaining operation comprising:

- a first pick-up step, in which said third movement means (18) carry said pair of first feed grippers (16) to said loading position and said first feed grippers (16) are switched into grip configuration in order to pick up two corresponding first rings (5) from the respective said first loaders (3);

- a first transport step, in which said third movement means (18) carry said pair of first feed grippers (16) at said unloading position;

- a first insertion step, in which said first operative feed gripper (16') inserts one said first ring (5), through its said chaining opening (7), on a first ring (5) of said cord chain retained by said first clamp (9) at said chaining position and is switched into said unconstrained configuration in order to release the corresponding said first ring (5) on said cord chain;

- a first transfer step, in which said first rotary gripper (12), in said meshing position, is switched into retention configuration in order to grasp respectively one said first ring (5) from the corresponding said first auxiliary feed gripper (16") and said first auxiliary feed gripper (16) is switched into unconstrained configuration;

- a first meshing step, in which said first rotary gripper (12) rotates around said first rotation axis (X) thereof, orienting the chaining opening (7) of said first ring (5) and linking said first ring (5) with said first ring (5) inserted in said first insertion step;

- a first mesh change step, in which:

- said first clamp (9) is switched into said open configuration in order to release said cord chain to said first rotary gripper (12),

- said first clamp (9) is switched into said closed configuration in order to grasp said cord chain from said first rotary gripper (12) at said first ring (5) linked in said first meshing step,

- said first rotary gripper (12) is switched into release configuration in order to transfer said cord chain to said first clamp (9).

8. Process according to claim 7, characterized in that it comprises in sequence multiple second chaining operations executed by means of said pair of second feed grippers (17), said second clamp (10) and said second rotary gripper (13);
each said second chaining operation comprising:

- a second pick-up step, in which said third movement means (18) carry said pair of second feed grippers (17) at said loading position and said second feed grippers (17) are switched into grip configuration in order to pick up two corresponding second rings (6) from the respective said second loaders (4);

- a second transport step, in which said third movement means (18) carry said pair of second feed grippers (17) at said unloading position;

- a second insertion step, in which said second operative feed gripper (17') inserts one said second ring (6), through said chaining opening (7) thereof, on a second ring (6) of said cord chain retained by said second clamp (10) at said chaining position and is switched into said unconstrained configuration in order to release the corresponding said second ring (6) on said cord chain;

- a second transfer step, in which said second rotary gripper (13), in said meshing position, is switched into retention configuration in order to respectively grasp one said second ring (6) from the corresponding said second auxiliary gripper (16") and said second auxiliary gripper (16") is switched into unconstrained configuration;

- a second meshing step, in which said second rotary gripper (13) rotates around said second rotation axis (Y) thereof, orienting the chaining opening (7) of said second ring (6) and linking said second ring (6) to said second ring (6) inserted in said second insertion step;

- a second mesh change step, in which:

- said second clamp (10) is switched into said open configuration in order to release said cord chain to said second rotary gripper (13),

- said second clamp (10) is switched into said closed configuration in order to grasp said cord chain from said second rotary gripper (13) at said second ring (6) linked in said second meshing step,

- said second rotary gripper (13) is switched into release configuration in order to transfer said cord chain to said second clamp (10).

9. Process according to claim 8, characterized in that it comprises a change operation between said first chaining operations in sequence and said second chaining operations in sequence;
wherein said change operation provides for:

- a rotary gripper change step, in which said second movement means (14) remove said first rotary gripper (9) from said meshing position and place said second rotary gripper (10) in said meshing position;

- a third pick-up step, in which said third movement means (18) carry at least the second auxiliary feed gripper (17") of said pair of second feed grippers (17) at said loading position and at least said second auxiliary feed gripper (17") is switched into grip configuration in order to pick up a corresponding second ring (6) from the respective said second loader (4);

- a third transport step, in which said third movement means (18) carry at least said second auxiliary feed gripper (17") to said unloading position;

- a third transfer step, in which said second rotary gripper (13), in said meshing position, is switched into retention configuration in order to grasp respectively said second ring (6) from said second auxiliary feed gripper (17") and said second auxiliary feed gripper (17") is switched into unconstrained configuration;

- a third meshing step, in which the corresponding said second rotary gripper (13) rotates around said second rotation axis (Y) thereof, linking said second ring (6) to one said first ring (5) of said cord chain retained by said first clamp (9) at said chaining position;

- a release step, in which said first clamp (9) is switched into said open configuration in order to release said cord chain to said second rotary gripper (13);

- a clamp change step, in which said first movement means (11) remove said first clamp (9) from said chaining position and place said second clamp (10) in said chaining position;

- a grip step, in which said second clamp (10) is switched into said closed configuration in order to grasp said cord chain from said second rotary gripper (13) at said second ring (6) linked in said third meshing step and said second rotary gripper (13) is switched into said release configuration in order to transfer said cord chain to said second clamp (10).

10. Process according to any one of the claims from 7 to 9, characterized in that it comprises at least one starting operation preceding the first chaining operations in sequence;
wherein said starting operation provides for:

- a fourth pick-up step, in which said third movement means (18) carry at least the first auxiliary feed gripper (16") of the pair of said first feed grippers (16) at said loading position and at least said first auxiliary feed gripper (16") is switched into grip configuration in order to pick up one said first ring (5) from the respective said first loader (3);

- a fourth transport step, in which said third movement means (18) carry at least said first auxiliary feed gripper (16") at said unloading position;

- a fourth transfer step, in which said first rotary gripper (12), in said meshing position, is switched into retention configuration in order to grasp respectively said first ring (5) from said first auxiliary feed gripper (16") and said first auxiliary feed gripper (16") is switched into unconstrained configuration;

- an orientation step, in which the corresponding said first rotary gripper (12) rotates around said first rotation axis (X) thereof, orienting the chaining opening (7) of said first ring (5);

- a ring passage step, in which said first clamp (9) is switched into closed configuration in order to grasp, from said first rotary gripper (12), said first ring (5) oriented in said orientation step and said first rotary gripper (12) is switched into release configuration in order to transfer said first ring (5) to said first clamp (10).

Drawing