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(11) | EP 4 147 793 A1 |
| (12) | EUROPEAN PATENT APPLICATION |
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| (54) | METHOD AND MACHINE FOR PROJECTING LIQUID GLUE ONTO FLAPS TO BE GLUED OF BOXES UNDER FORMATION OF A SAME SIZE |
| (57) A method for projecting liquid glue onto flaps to be glued of boxes under formation
of a same size, comprising steps of: arranging first projecting means (1) of a jet
of liquid glue (2) comprising a first nozzle (3); arranging second projecting means
(4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) comprising a second nozzle (5); supplying a plurality
of boxes under formation (6), having a same size, along a supply direction (X); carrying
out the following cycle of steps: activating the first projecting means (1) of a jet
of liquid glue (2); repeatedly carrying out the preceding step on a first number of
boxes under formation that is lower than the number of boxes under formation that
are a part of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) of the same size; deactivating
the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2); activating the second
projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2); repeatedly carrying out the preceding
step on a second number of boxes under formation that is lower than the number of
boxes under formation, which are a part of the plurality of boxes under formation
(6) of a same size so as to maintain in operation both the first nozzle (3) and the
second nozzle (5) for the total number of boxes under formation of the plurality of
boxes under formation (6).
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[0001] The present invention relates to the technical sector relating to the gluing of flaps of boxes under formation.
[0002] In particular, the present invention relates to a method for projecting liquid glue onto flaps to be glued of boxes under formation of a same size. Further, the present invention relates to a machine for projecting liquid glue onto flaps to be glued of boxes under formation of a same size.
[0003] Making boxes of different sizes is known, with the purpose of being able to box articles of various shapes using the said boxes.
[0004] By boxes of different sizes is meant boxes that have dimensions, i.e. height, width and length, that are different, so that it is possible to box the articles by utilising a box that is such as to make the free space between the articles and the internal walls of the box housing them as small as possible.
[0005] In general terms, to make a box it is necessary to project liquid glue onto the flaps to be glued of the corresponding box under formation, which flaps to be glued will then be folded one on another to form the box.
[0006] These steps of realisation of the box can be carried out by an automatic machine which, at each size change, is halted and newly regulated to carry out the steps of realisation as a function of the new size.
[0007] With particular reference to the projection of liquid glue on flaps to be glued of a box under formation, a method for projecting liquid glue onto flaps to be glued of boxes under formation of a same size is known, comprising steps of:
arranging first projecting means of a jet of liquid glue comprising a first nozzle;
arranging second projecting means of a jet of liquid glue comprising a second nozzle;
supplying a plurality of boxes under formation, having a same size, along a supply direction;
the position of the first projecting means of a jet of liquid glue and of the second projecting means of a jet of liquid glue as well as the supply direction being chosen in such a way that, during the advancement of each box under formation, a relative flap to be glued thereof is facing the first nozzle and/or the second nozzle in order to receive a jet of liquid glue;
activating the first projecting means of a jet of liquid glue so that the first nozzle projects a jet of liquid glue at a first predetermined area of the flap to be glued of a box under formation, when the box under formation is facing the first nozzle;
activating the second projecting means of a jet of liquid glue, contemporaneously with the activating of the first projecting means of a jet of liquid glue, so that the second nozzle projects a jet of liquid glue at a first predetermined area of the flap to be glued of a box under formation, when the box under formation is facing the second nozzle.
[0008] Consequently, by carrying out the above-mentioned steps, it is possible to realise two glue points/portions on the flap to be glued so that a further flap can be folded onto the flap, or a pair of further flaps, one for each glue point/portion, of the box under formation, so that they can be fixed to one another to realise a box. However, in a case where it were desired to make boxes having a different size, the need might arise to activate the first projecting means of a jet of liquid glue and the second projecting means of a jet of liquid glue in different positions from the preceding positions assumed for the preceding size, or to activate, for example, only the first projecting means of a jet of liquid glue, as it might be necessary to realise only one glue point/portion on the flap to be glued.
[0009] In this condition, a size change will be enacted, by stopping the automatic machine carrying out the above-described steps so as to adapt the first and the second projecting means of a jet of liquid glue to the new size, so as to activate only the first projecting means of a jet of liquid glue and to maintain the second projecting means of a jet of liquid glue non-functioning.
[0011] In detail, as for the first projecting means and the second projecting means a single chamber containing glue is provided, maintained at a temperature such as to place it in the liquid state and in communication with the first nozzle and the second nozzle, the non-functioning of the second nozzle for a determined time period is such as to be capable of resulting in the carbonising of the relative liquid glue to be dispensed, with a possible clogging of the nozzle.
[0012] In other words, the first and the second projecting means of a jet of liquid glue include a single chamber, heated to a temperature such as to maintain the glue in a liquid state which, in the case of non-utilisation of one of the two nozzles, would mean the glue remaining in the single chamber for a time such as to determine the carbonisation thereof, creating waste.
[0013] Therefore, should one newly proceed to a subsequent size change such as to require the activation of both the first projecting means of a jet of liquid glue and the second projecting means of a jet of liquid glue, there might occur a non-projection of a jet of liquid glue by the second nozzle as it might be clogged by the waste and therefore be non-functioning.
[0014] This would require resetting activities of the second projecting means of a jet of liquid glue, or replacement with new projection means of a jet of liquid glue. Consequently, the number of line halts would grow, with a relative reduction in productivity, i.e. a reduction of the number of boxes realised in a predetermined time interval.
[0015] Further, the foregoing points to a difficulty in management of the size change of the plurality of boxes under formation infed, since for the machines of known type, which perform the above-mentioned steps, a machine halt is required for each size change so as to newly adapt the first and the second projecting means of a jet of liquid glue to the new size.
[0016] This drawback could be obviated by having, for each nozzle, a corresponding chamber containing glue maintained at a temperature such as to keep it in the liquid state, so that when a nozzle is not functioning, the corresponding chamber is also made not to function.
[0018] Further, as each chamber is in communication with the corresponding nozzle, the presence of two chambers would increase the distance between the nozzles, making management of the sizes of the boxes under formation complicated, requiring a pair of glue points/portions, one near the other.
[0019] In the light of the above, the aim of the present invention consists in obviating the above-mentioned drawbacks.
[0020] The above aims are attained with a method for projecting liquid glue onto flaps to be glued of boxes under formation of a same size, according to claim 1 and with a machine for projecting liquid glue on the flaps to be glued of boxes under formation of a same size, according to claim 6.
[0021] By advantageously carrying out at in sequence, during supply of the plurality of boxes under formation having the same size, the steps of activating the first projecting means of a jet of liquid glue, deactivating the first projecting means of a jet of liquid glue and activating the second projecting means of a jet of liquid glue so that the first nozzle and the second nozzle, during the supplying of the plurality of boxes under formation of a same size, project a jet of liquid glue on the first predetermined area of the flap to be glued, guarantees the functioning of both the first nozzle and the second nozzle for the total number of boxes under formation of the plurality of boxes under formation of a same size.
[0022] In other words, during the step of supplying the plurality of boxes under formation of a same size, the projection of the jet of liquid glue, on the first predetermined area of each flap to be glued of each box under formation, takes place utilising both the first nozzle and the second nozzle, once the first projecting means of a jet of liquid glue have been deactivated.
[0023] In this way, carbonisation of the liquid glue relative to the non-functioning nozzle is avoided, as described with reference to the prior art reported in the foregoing, as, in the processing of the total number of boxes of the same size, both the first nozzle and the second nozzle are functioning and, therefore, the time interval for which one of the two nozzles is not functioning is such as to guarantee the maintaining, in the liquid state, of the liquid glue contained in the heating chamber of the first and second projecting means of a jet of liquid glue, and to avoid the formation of waste due to carbonisation of the liquid glue.
[0024] There is consequently a reduction in the number of line halts, with a consequent increase in productivity.
[0025] Further, with the method and the machine that are the object of the present invention, it will be possible to manage the size change of the boxes under formation to be fed in without having recourse to halting the machine, and thus of the steps of the method, as it will be possible to activate the first projecting means of a jet of liquid glue and the second projecting means of a jet of liquid glue according to the new size.
[0027] Specific embodiments of the invention will be described in the following part of the present description, according to what is set down in the claims and with the aid of the accompanying tables of drawings, in which:
- figure 1 and figure 2 illustrate a lateral view and a perspective view of the machine of the present invention in accordance with a first step of the method, also object of the present invention, for a first size of boxes under formation;
- figures 3 and 4 are views alike to those of figures 1 and 2, in accordance with a second step of the method;
- figure 5 and figure 6 illustrate a lateral view and a perspective view of the machine of the present invention in accordance with a first step of the method, also object of the present invention, for a second size of boxes under formation;
- figures 7 and 8 are views alike to those of figures 5 and 6, in accordance with a second step of the method;
- figure 9 and figure 10 illustrate a lateral view and a perspective view of the machine of the present invention according to a further step of the method, also object of the present invention, for a third size of boxes under formation.
[0028] The following is description of a method for projecting liquid glue onto flaps to be glued of boxes under formation of a same size, comprising steps of:
arranging first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) comprising a first nozzle (3);
arranging second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) comprising a second nozzle (5);
supplying a plurality of boxes under formation (6), having a same size, along a supply direction (X);
the position of the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and of the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) as well as the supply direction (X) being chosen in such a way that, during the advancement of each box under formation (6a), a relative flap to be glued (6b) thereof is facing the first nozzle (3) and/or the second nozzle (5) in order to receive a jet of liquid glue (2);
carrying out at least once, and in sequence, a cycle of steps as follows during supply of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) having the same size:
activating the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) so that the first nozzle (3) projects a jet of liquid glue (2) at a first predetermined area (7) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), when the box under formation (6a) is facing the first nozzle (3);
repeatedly carrying out the preceding step on a first number of boxes under formation that is lower than the number of boxes under formation that are a part of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) of the same size;
deactivating the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2);
activating the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) so that the second nozzle (5) projects a jet of liquid glue (2) at the first predetermined area (7) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), when the box under formation (6a) is facing the second nozzle (5);
repeatedly carrying out the preceding step on a second number of boxes under formation that is lower than the number of boxes under formation (6), being a part of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) of a same size so as to maintain in operation both the first nozzle (3) and the second nozzle (5) for the total number of boxes under formation of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) (see figures 1-4).
[0029] In detail, the sum of the first number of boxes under formation and of the second number of boxes under formation is equal at most to the total number of boxes under formation (6) of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) fed in.
[0030] The method can comprise a step of identifying the first predetermined area (7) on the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a) of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) of a same size, which first predetermined area (7) is the same for each box under formation (6a) of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) of a same size.
[0031] Each box under formation (6a) of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) can comprise:
a base wall (8), for restingly receiving articles to be boxed, which base wall (8) comprises a first edge (8a) and a second edge (8b) which extend longitudinally, and a third edge (8c) which extends transversally to the extension axis of the base wall (8) and which conjoins the first edge (8) and the second edge (8) to one another;
a first lateral wall (9) which rises starting from the base wall (8), which is hinged to the base wall (8) at the first edge (8a) and which comprises a fourth edge (9a) which extends transversally to the extension axis of the first lateral wall (9);
a second lateral wall (10) which rises starting from the base wall (8), which is hinged to the base wall (8) at the second edge (8b) and which comprises a fifth edge (10a) which extends transversally to the extension axis of the second lateral wall (10);
a first flap (11) which extends starting from the base wall (8) and which is hinged to the base wall (8) at the third edge (8c) so as to be folded towards the base wall (8);
a second flap (12) which extends starting from the first lateral wall (9) and transversally thereto at the fourth edge (9a);
a third flap (13) which extends starting from the second lateral wall (10) and transversally thereto at the fifth edge (10a) (see figures 2 and 4)
[0032] With reference to the above-mentioned box under formation (6a), the first nozzle (3) and second nozzle (5) project a jet of liquid glue (2) on the second flap (12) and on the third flap (13) (see figures 1-4).
[0033] In detail, with reference to figures 1-4, the second flap (12) and the third flap (13) can comprise a relative first face (122) and a relative second face (123) opposite and parallel to the first face (122) (see figures 2 and 4).
[0034] The first face (122) of the third flap (13) can be arranged in such a way as to face the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) (see figures 2 and 4).
[0035] The second face (123) of the third flap (13) can be arranged in such a way as to face the articles to be boxed (not illustrated) when restingly received on the base wall (8).
[0036] In accordance with the size of the box under formation (6a), once a jet of liquid glue (2) has been projected on the second flap (12) and on the third flap (13), the first flap (11) is folded towards the second flap (12) and the third flap (13) so as to fix it thereto (see figures 2 and 4).
[0037] In a like manner to what has been described above, the base wall (8) can comprise a sixth edge (not illustrated) which extends transversally to the extension axis of the base wall (8) and which conjoins the first edge (8) and the second edge (8) to one another and each box under formation (6a) can comprise a fourth flap (14) which extends starting from the base wall (8) and which is hinged to the base wall (8) at the sixth edge so as to be folded towards the base wall (8) (see figures 2 and 4).
[0038] Further, the first lateral wall (9) can comprise a seventh edge (9b) which extends transversally to the extension axis of the first lateral wall (9) and the box under formation (6a) can comprise a fifth flap (15) which extends starting from the first lateral wall (9) and transversally thereto at the seventh edge (9b) (see figures 2 and 4).
[0039] Further, the second lateral wall (10) can comprise an eighth edge (10b) which extends transversally to the extension axis of the second lateral wall (10) and the box under formation (6a) can comprise a sixth flap (16) which extends starting from the second lateral wall (10) and transversally thereto at the eighth edge (10b) (see figures 2 and 4).
[0040] The step of activating the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) can be carried out so that the first nozzle (3) projects a jet of liquid glue (2) on the fifth flap (15) and on the sixth flap (16).
[0041] The step of activating the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) can be carried out so that the second nozzle (5) projects a jet of liquid glue (2) on the fifth flap (15) and on the sixth flap (16).
[0042] Again in accordance with the size of the box under formation (6a), once a jet of liquid glue (2) has been projected on the fifth flap (15) and on the sixth flap (16), the fourth flap (14) is folded towards the fifth flap (15) and the sixth flap (16) so as to fix it thereto (see figures 2 and 4).
[0043] The first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2), as a function of the time in which the flap to be glued (6b) is positioned at these, facing them to one another, and of the projection time of the relative jet of liquid glue (2), can determine a relative glue point or a relative glue portion on the flap to be glued (6b).
[0044] The first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) can be arranged in such a way that the first nozzle (3) and the second nozzle (5) are aligned to one another.
[0045] The method preferably comprises steps of:
moving the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) in order to assume a first operating position (P1) with respect to the first predetermined area (7) wherein the first nozzle (3) projects a jet of liquid glue (2) onto the first predetermined area (7) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a) (see figures 1, 2, 5 and 6);
moving the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) in order to assume a second operating position (P2) with respect to the first predetermined area (7) wherein the second nozzle (5) projects a jet of liquid glue (2) onto the first predetermined area (7) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), once the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) have been deactivated (see figures 3, 4, 7 and 8).
[0046] Advantageously, the movement of the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the movement of the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) guarantees the correct positioning of the first nozzle (3) and the second nozzle (5) at the first predetermined area (7), as a function of the activation of the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) or of the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2).
[0047] Further, the movement of the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) or of the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) guarantees better management of the size change of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) fed in. The step of moving the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the step of moving the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) can be achieved by moving the first projecting means (1) and the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) along a movement direction (Z) which is transversal to the advancement direction (X) of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) (see figures 1-10).
[0048] In detail, the step of moving the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the step of moving the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) take place contemporaneously.
[0051] The first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) can be arranged in such a way that the first nozzle (3) and the second nozzle (5) are aligned to one another along a direction that extends along a vertical plane.
[0052] The movement direction (Z) can be parallel to the direction along which the first nozzle (3) and second nozzle (5) are aligned.
[0053] The method that is the object of the present invention can comprise a step of arranging third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) comprising a third nozzle (17) and fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) comprising a fourth nozzle (18) (see figures 5-8) and the position of the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and of the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) as well as the supply direction (X) being chosen in such a way that, during the advancement of each box under formation (6a), a relative flap to be glued (6b) thereof is facing the third nozzle (17) and/or the fourth nozzle (18) in order to receive a jet of liquid glue (2).
[0054] The method preferably comprises steps of carrying out at least once, and in sequence, a cycle of steps as follows during supply of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) having the same size:
activating the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) so that the first nozzle (3) and the third nozzle (17) project a jet of liquid glue (2) at, respectively, the first predetermined area (7) and a second predetermined area (19), which is different to the first predetermined area (7), of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), when the box under formation (6a) is facing the first nozzle (3) and the third nozzle (17);
repeatedly carrying out the preceding step on the first number of boxes under formation that is lower than the number of boxes under formation, being a part of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) of the same size;
deactivating the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2);
activating the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2), so that the second nozzle (5) and the fourth nozzle (18) project a jet of liquid glue (2) at, respectively, the first predetermined area (7) and the second predetermined area (19) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), when the box under formation (6a) is facing the second nozzle (17) and the fourth nozzle (18);
repeatedly carrying out the preceding step on the second number of boxes under formation that is lower than the number of boxes under formation, being a part of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) of a same size (see figures 5-8).
[0055] Should the steps of the method described in the foregoing need to be applied to a box under formation (6a) which requires two glue points or a glue portion on the flap to be glued (6b), it is advantageously possible to activate the first projecting means (1) and the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) alternating, respectively, the first nozzle (3) and second nozzle (5) with one another so as to project a jet of liquid glue (2) at the first predetermined area (7) and the third projecting means (31) and the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) alternating, respectively, the third nozzle (17) and the fourth nozzle (18) with one another so as to project a jet of liquid glue (2) at the second predetermined area (19).
[0056] The third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2), as a function of the time in which the flap to be glued (6b) is positioned at these, facing them to one another, and of the projection time of the relative jet of liquid glue (2), can determine a relative glue point or a relative glue portion on the flap to be glued (6b).
[0057] The step of activating the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) can take place contemporaneously so that the first nozzle (3) and third nozzle (17) project a jet of liquid glue (2) at the same time at the first predetermined area (7) and at the second predetermined area (19).
[0058] Likewise, the step of activating the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) can take place contemporaneously so that the second nozzle (5) and fourth nozzle (18) project a jet of liquid glue (2) at the same time at the first predetermined area (7) and at the second predetermined area (19).
[0059] The method can comprise steps of:
identifying the second predetermined area (19) on the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a) of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) of the same size, which second predetermined area (19) is the same for each box under formation (6a) of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) and is different to the first predetermined area (7).
[0060] In detail, activating the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2), so that the second nozzle (5) and fourth nozzle (18) project a jet of liquid glue (2) at the same time, occurs in place of the activation of the first projecting means (1) and the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) (see figures 5-8).
[0061] In other words, the activating of the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2), so that the second nozzle (4) and the fourth nozzle (18) project a jet of liquid glue (2), occurs when the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) are deactivated.
[0062] The third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) can be arranged in such a way that the third nozzle (17) and the fourth nozzle (18) are aligned to one another.
[0063] The method can comprise steps of:
moving the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) in order to assume a third operating position (P3) with respect to the second predetermined area (19) wherein the third nozzle (17) projects a jet of liquid glue (2) onto the second predetermined area (19) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a) (see figures 5 and 6);
moving the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) in order to assume a fourth operating position (P4) with respect to the second predetermined area (19) wherein the fourth nozzle (18) projects a jet of liquid glue (2) onto the second predetermined area (19) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), once the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) have been deactivated (see figures 7 and 8).
[0064] The step of moving the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the steps of moving the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) can take place by moving the third projecting means (31) and the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) along the movement direction (Z) (see figures 5-8).
[0065] In detail, the step of moving the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the steps of moving the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) takes place contemporaneously.
[0066] The third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) can be arranged in such a way that the third nozzle (17) and the fourth nozzle (18) are aligned to one another along a direction that extends along a vertical plane.
[0067] With reference to the above-mentioned box under formation (6a), the first nozzle (3) and second nozzle (5) project a relative jet of liquid glue (2) at the first predetermined area (7) and on the second flap (12) and on the third flap (13) (see figures 6 and 8).
[0068] Likewise, the third nozzle (17) and fourth nozzle (18) project a relative jet of liquid glue (2) at the second predetermined area (19) and on the second flap (12) and on the third flap (13) (see figures 6 and 8).
[0070] The first lateral wall (9) can comprise a ninth edge (9c) which extends parallel to the second edge (8b) and the box under formation (6a) can comprise a covering wall (20) for superiorly covering the articles to be boxed when arranged on the base wall (8) and comprising a tenth edge (20a) which extends transversally to the extension axis of the covering wall (20) (see figures 6 and 8).
[0071] Further, the box under formation (6a) can comprise a seventh flap (21) which extends starting from the covering wall (20) and which is hinged to the covering wall (20) at the tenth edge (20a) so as to be folded towards the second flap (12) and the third flap (13) (see figures 6 and 8).
[0072] Again in accordance with the size of the box under formation (6a), once a jet of liquid glue (2) has been projected on the second flap (12) and on the third flap (13), the seventh flap (21) is folded towards the second flap (12) and the third flap (13) so as to fix it thereto (see figures 6 and 8).
[0073] Likewise, the covering wall (20) can comprise an eleventh edge (20b) which extends transversally to the extension axis of the covering wall (20) (see figures 6 and 8).
[0074] Further, the box under formation (6a) can comprise an eighth flap (22) which extends starting from the covering wall (20) and which is hinged to the covering wall (20) at the eleventh edge (20b) so as to be folded towards the fifth flap (15) and the sixth flap (16) (see figures 6 and 8).
[0075] With reference to the above-mentioned box under formation (6a), the first nozzle (3) and second nozzle (5) project a relative jet of liquid glue (2) at the first predetermined area (7) and on the second flap (12) and on the third flap (13). Likewise, the third nozzle (17) and fourth nozzle (18) project a relative jet of liquid glue (2) at the second predetermined area (19) on the second flap (12) and on the third flap (13).
[0076] Once a jet of liquid glue (2) has been projected on the second flap (12) and on the third flap (13), the first flap (11) and the seventh flap (21) are folded towards the second flap (12) and the third flap (13) so as to fix it thereto.
[0077] Again in accordance with the size of the box under formation (6a), once a jet of liquid glue (2) has been projected on the fifth flap (15) and on the sixth flap (16), the fourth flap (14) and the eighth flap (22) are folded towards the fifth flap (15) and the sixth flap (16) so as to fix it thereto.
[0078] Preferably and alternatively to the previously described embodiment, the method comprises steps of activating:
the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) so that the first nozzle (3) and the second nozzle (5) project, respectively, a jet of liquid glue (2) at the first predetermined area (7) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), when the box under formation (6a) is facing the first nozzle (3) and the second nozzle (5);
the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) so that the third nozzle (17) and the fourth nozzle (18) are arranged so as to project, respectively, a jet of liquid glue (2) at the second predetermined area (19) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), when the box under formation (6a) is facing the third nozzle (17) and the fourth nozzle (18) (see figures 9 and 10).
[0079] It is advantageously possible to ensure the functioning of both the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2), of the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2), of the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and of the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) guaranteeing the projection of a jet of liquid glue (2) respectively from the first nozzle (3), from the second nozzle (5), from the third nozzle (17) and from the fourth nozzle (18).
[0081] In this last operating condition, the box under formation (6a) can be of such a size that the first flap (11), the seventh flap (21), the fourth flap (14) and the eighth flap (22) have an extension that is such as to require two glue points or glue portions for the relative fixing, respectively, to the second flap (12) and to the third flap (13) and to the fifth flap (15) and to the sixth flap (16).
[0082] The following is a description of a machine (200) for projecting liquid glue onto flaps to be glued of boxes under formation of a same size, also an object of the present invention, comprising: first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) comprising a first nozzle (3); second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) comprising a second nozzle (5); a conveyor (28) arranged so as to supply a plurality of boxes under formation (6), having a same size, along a supply direction (X); the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2), the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the conveyor (28) being positioned with respect to one another in such a way that, during the advancement of each box under formation (6a), a relative flap to be glued (6b) thereof assumes a position such as to be facing the first nozzle (3) and/or the second nozzle (5) in order to receive a jet of liquid glue (2); a control unit (23) configured for:
activating the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) so that the first nozzle (3) is arranged so as to project a jet of liquid glue (2) at a first predetermined area (7) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), when the box under formation (6a) is facing the first nozzle (3), on a first number of boxes under formation that is lower than the number of boxes under formation, being a part of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) of the same size;
activating the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2), once the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) have been deactivated, so that the second nozzle (5) is arranged so as to project a jet of liquid glue (2) at the first predetermined area (7) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), when the box under formation (6a) is facing the second nozzle (5), on a second number of boxes under formation that is lower than the number of boxes under formation, being a part of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) of a same size, so as to maintain in operation both the first nozzle (3) and the second nozzle (5) for the total number of boxes under formation of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) (see figures 1-4).
[0084] In other words, the machine (200) can be a machine (200) for actuating the method described in the foregoing.
[0085] The first projecting means (1) and the second projecting means (4) can comprise a heating chamber (1a) for containing the liquid glue and maintaining it in the liquid state and which is in communication with the first nozzle (3) and second nozzle (5) (see figures 1, 3, 5 and 7).
[0086] Further, the first projecting means (1) and the second projecting means (4) can comprise solenoids (1b, 4b) arranged at the first nozzle (3) and the second nozzle (5) and activatable to project or not project a jet of liquid glue (2) to the first nozzle (3) and to the second nozzle (5) (see figures 1, 3, 5 and 7).
[0087] The solenoids (1b, 4b) of the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and of the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) can be activated and/or deactivated by the control unit (23) (see figures 1, 3, 5 and 7).
[0088] In detail, the same considerations made above for the first projecting means (1) and the second projecting means (4) once more apply.
[0089] The first and second nozzle (3, 5), the heating chamber (1a) and the solenoids (1b, 4b), of the first projecting means (1) and the second projecting means (4), can form an applicator gun of liquid glue.
[0090] The first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) are preferably arranged in such a way that the first nozzle (3) and second nozzle (5) are aligned with one another and the machine (200) comprises movement means (24) arranged so as to move the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) along a movement direction (Z) which is transversal to the advancement direction (X) so as to position:
the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) in a first operating position (P1) with respect to the first predetermined area (7) wherein the first nozzle (3) is orientated so as to project a jet of liquid glue (2) onto the first predetermined area (7) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a);
the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) in a second operating position (P2) with respect to the first predetermined area (7) wherein the second nozzle (5) is orientated so as to project a jet of liquid glue (2) onto the first predetermined area (7) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a) (see figures 1-4).
[0091] The movement means (24) advantageously ensure the movement and positioning of the first projecting means (1) and the second projecting means (4) during the size change, with the purpose of being able to adapt the machine (200) of the present invention in continuous mode without having recourse to halting the machine (200) during the size change of the boxes under formation being infed. The movement means (24) can comprise:
a rail (25); a first sliding block (26) which slides along the rail (25) and which bears the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) (see figures 2 and 4).
[0094] Further, the movement means (24) can comprise a first worm screw (29) activated by a direct-current motor for the sliding of the first sliding block (26) along the rail (25) (see figures 2 and 4).
[0095] Alternatively to the first worm screw (29), by way of example the movement means (24) can comprise a belt activated by a drive pulley (not illustrated).
[0096] The machine (200), object of the present invention, can comprise third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) comprising a third nozzle (17) and fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) comprising a fourth nozzle (18) (see figures 5-8); the position of the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and of the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) as well as the supply direction (X) being chosen in such a way that, during the advancement of each box under formation (6a), a relative flap to be glued (6b) thereof is facing the third nozzle (17) and/or the fourth nozzle (18) in order to receive a jet of liquid glue (2).
[0097] The control unit (23) is preferably configured for:
activating the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) so that the first nozzle (3) and the third nozzle (17) are arranged so as to project a jet of liquid glue (2) at, respectively, the first predetermined area (7) and a second predetermined area (19), which is different to the first predetermined area (7), of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), when the box under formation (6a) is facing the first nozzle (3) and the third nozzle (17), on the first number of boxes under formation that is lower than the number of boxes under formation, being a part of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) of the same size;
activating the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2), so that the second nozzle (5) and the fourth nozzle (18) are arranged so as to project a jet of liquid glue (2) at, respectively, the first predetermined area (7) and the second predetermined area (19) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), when the box under formation (6a) is facing the second nozzle (5) and the fourth nozzle (18), on the second number of boxes under formation that is lower than the number of boxes under formation, being a part of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) of a same size (see figures 5-8).
[0098] Should a box under formation (6a) be infed which requires two glue points or a glue portion on the flap to be glued (6b), the control unit (23) advantageously activates the first projecting means (1) and the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2), alternating, respectively, the first nozzle (3) and second nozzle (5) with one another so as to project a jet of liquid glue (2) at the first predetermined area (7) and activates the third projecting means (31) and the fourth projecting means (32) alternating, respectively, the third nozzle (17) and the fourth nozzle (18) with one another so as to project a jet of liquid glue (2) at the second predetermined area (19).
[0099] In detail, the control unit (23) can be configured so as to deactivate the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2).
[0100] The same considerations made above for the first projecting means (1) and the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2), in relation to the first nozzle (3) and second nozzle (5), can be made for the third projecting means (31) and the fourth projecting means (32), in relation to the third nozzle (17) and the fourth nozzle (18).
[0101] The movement means (24) can comprise a second sliding block (27) which slides along the rail (25) and which bears the third projecting means (31) and the fourth projecting means (32) (see figures 2, 4, 6 and 8).
[0102] Further, the movement means (24) can comprise a second worm screw (30) for the sliding of the second sliding block (27) along the rail (25) (see figures 2, 4, 6 and 8).
[0103] Alternatively to the second worm screw (30), by way of example the movement means (24) can comprise a belt activated by a drive pulley (not illustrated). Alternatively, the control unit (23) can be configured for:
activating the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) so that the first nozzle (3) and the second nozzle (5) are arranged so as to project, respectively, a jet of liquid glue (2) at the first predetermined area (7) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), when the box under formation (6a) is facing the first nozzle (3) and the second nozzle (5);
activating the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) so that the third nozzle (17) and the fourth nozzle (18) are arranged so as to project, respectively, a jet of liquid glue (2) at the second predetermined area (19) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), when the box under formation (6a) is facing the third nozzle (17) and the fourth nozzle (18) (see figures 9 and 10).
[0104] It is advantageously possible to ensure the functioning of both the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2), of the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2), of the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and of the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) for the projection of a jet of liquid glue (2) respectively from the first nozzle (3), from the second nozzle (5), from the third nozzle (17) and from the fourth nozzle (18).
[0105] In the above embodiment, the box under formation (6a) can be of such a size that the first flap (11), the seventh flap (21), the fourth flap (14) and the eighth flap (22) have an extension such as to require two glue points or glue portions for the relative fixing, respectively, to the second and third flap (13) and to the fourth and fifth flap (15).
arranging first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) comprising a first nozzle (3);
arranging second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) comprising a second nozzle (5);
supplying a plurality of boxes under formation (6), having a same size, along a supply direction (X);
the position of the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and of the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) as well as the supply direction (X) being chosen in such a way that, during the advancement of each box under formation (6a), a relative flap to be glued (6b) thereof is facing the first nozzle (3) and/or the second nozzle (5) in order to receive a jet of liquid glue (2);
carrying out at least once, and in sequence, a cycle of steps as follows during supply of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) having the same size:
activating the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) so that the first nozzle (3) projects a jet of liquid glue (2) at a first predetermined area (7) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), when the box under formation (6a) is facing the first nozzle (3);
repeatedly carrying out the preceding step on a first number of boxes under formation that is lower than the number of boxes under formation, being a part of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) of the same size;
deactivating the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2);
activating the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) so that the second nozzle (5) projects a jet of liquid glue (2) at the first predetermined area (7) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), when the box under formation (6a) is facing the second nozzle (5);
repeatedly carrying out the preceding step on a second number of boxes under formation that is lower than the number of boxes under formation, being a part of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) of a same size so as to maintain in operation both the first nozzle (3) and the second nozzle (5) for the number of boxes under formation of the plurality of boxes under formation (6).
moving the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) in order to assume a first operating position (P1) with respect to the first predetermined area (7) wherein the first nozzle (3) projects a jet of liquid glue (2) onto the first predetermined area (7) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a);
moving the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) in order to assume a second operating position (P2) with respect to the first predetermined area (7) wherein the second nozzle (5) projects a jet of liquid glue (2) onto the first predetermined area (7) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), once the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) have been deactivated.
it comprises a step of arranging third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) comprising a third nozzle (17);
it comprises a step of arranging fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) comprising a fourth nozzle (18);
the position of the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and of the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) as well as the supply direction (X) being chosen in such a way that, during the advancement of each box under formation (6a), a relative flap to be glued (6b) thereof is facing the third nozzle (17) and/or the fourth nozzle (18) in order to receive a jet of liquid glue (2);
the method comprises steps of carrying out at least once, and in sequence, a cycle of steps as follows during supply of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) having the same size:
activating the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) so that the first nozzle (3) and the third nozzle (17) project a jet of liquid glue (2) at, respectively, the first predetermined area (7) and a second predetermined area (19), which is different to the first predetermined area (7), of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), when the box under formation (6a) is facing the first nozzle (3) and the third nozzle (17);
repeatedly carrying out the preceding step on the first number of boxes under formation that is lower than the number of boxes under formation, being a part of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) of the same size;
deactivating the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2);
activating the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2), so that the second nozzle (5) and the fourth nozzle (18) project a jet of liquid glue (2) at, respectively, the first predetermined area (7) and the second predetermined area (19) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), when the box under formation (6a) is facing the second nozzle (5) and the fourth nozzle (18);
repeatedly carrying out the preceding step on the second number of boxes under formation that is lower than the number of boxes under formation, being a part of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) of a same size.
it comprises a step of arranging third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) comprising a third nozzle (17);
it comprises a step of arranging fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) comprising a fourth nozzle (18);
the position of the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and of the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) as well as the supply direction (X) being chosen in such a way that, during the advancement of each box under formation (6a), a relative flap to be glued (6b) thereof is facing the third nozzle (17) and/or the fourth nozzle (18) in order to receive a jet of liquid glue (2);
the method comprises steps of activating:
the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) so that the first nozzle (3) and the second nozzle (5) project, respectively, a jet of liquid glue (2) at the first predetermined area (7) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), when the box under formation (6a) is facing the first nozzle (3) and the second nozzle (5);
the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) so that the third nozzle (17) and the fourth nozzle (18) project, respectively, a jet of liquid glue (2) at the second predetermined area (19) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), when the box under formation (6a) is facing the third nozzle (17) and the fourth nozzle (18).
first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) comprising a first nozzle (3);
second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) comprising a second nozzle (5);
a conveyor (28) arranged so as to supply a plurality of boxes under formation (6), having a same size, along a supply direction (X);
the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2), the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the conveyor (28) being positioned with respect to one another in such a way that, during the advancement of each box under formation (6a), a relative flap to be glued (6b) thereof assumes a position such as to be facing the first nozzle (3) and/or the second nozzle (5) in order to receive a jet of liquid glue (2);
a control unit (23) configured for:
activating the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) so that the first nozzle (3) is arranged so as to project a jet of liquid glue (2) at a first predetermined area (7) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), when the box under formation (6a) is facing the first nozzle (3), on a first number of boxes under formation that is lower than the number of boxes under formation, being a part of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) of the same size;
activating the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2), once the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) have been deactivated, so that the second nozzle (5) is arranged so as to project a jet of liquid glue (2) at the first predetermined area (7) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), when the box under formation (6a) is facing the second nozzle (5), on a second number of boxes under formation that is lower than the number of boxes under formation, being a part of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) of a same size, so as to maintain in operation both the first nozzle (3) and the second nozzle (5) for the number of boxes under formation of the plurality of boxes under formation (6).
the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) are arranged in such a way that the first nozzle (3) and the second nozzle (5) are aligned to one another;
the machine (200) comprises movement means (24) arranged so as to move the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) along a movement direction (Z) which is transversal to the advancement direction (X) so as to position:
the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) in a first operating position (P1) with respect to the first predetermined area (7) wherein the first nozzle (3) is orientated so as to project a jet of liquid glue (2) onto the first predetermined area (7) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a);
the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) in a second operating position (P2) with respect to the first predetermined area (7) wherein the second nozzle (5) is orientated so as to project a jet of liquid glue (2) onto the first predetermined area (7) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a).
it comprises third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) comprising a third nozzle (17);
it comprises fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) comprising a fourth nozzle (18);
the position of the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and of the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) as well as the supply direction (X) being chosen in such a way that, during the advancement of each box under formation (6a), a relative flap to be glued (6b) thereof is facing the third nozzle (17) and/or the fourth nozzle (18) in order to receive a jet of liquid glue (2); the control unit (23) is configured for:
activating the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) so that the first nozzle (3) and the third nozzle (17) are arranged so as to project a jet of liquid glue (2) at, respectively, the first predetermined area (7) and a second predetermined area (19), which is different to the first predetermined area (7), of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), when the box under formation (6a) is facing the first nozzle (3) and the third nozzle (17), on the first number of boxes under formation that is lower than the number of boxes under formation, being a part of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) of the same size;
activating the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2), so that the second nozzle (5) and the fourth nozzle (18) are arranged so as to project a jet of liquid glue (2) at, respectively, the first predetermined area (7) and the second predetermined area (19) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation, when the box under formation (6a) is facing the second nozzle (5) and the fourth nozzle (18), on the second number of boxes under formation that is lower than the number of boxes under formation, being a part of the plurality of boxes under formation (6) of a same size.
it comprises third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) comprising a third nozzle (17);
it comprises fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) comprising a fourth nozzle (18);
the position of the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and of the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) as well as the supply direction (X) being chosen in such a way that, during the advancement of each box under formation (6a), a relative flap to be glued (6b) thereof is facing the third nozzle (17) and/or the fourth nozzle (18) in order to receive a jet of liquid glue (2);
the control unit (23) is configured for:
activating the first projecting means (1) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the second projecting means (4) of a jet of liquid glue (2) so that the first nozzle (3) and the second nozzle (5) are arranged so as to project, respectively, a jet of liquid glue (2) at the first predetermined area (7) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), when the box under formation (6a) is facing the first nozzle (3) and the second nozzle (5);
activating the third projecting means (31) of a jet of liquid glue (2) and the fourth projecting means (32) of a jet of liquid glue (2) so that the third nozzle (17) and the fourth nozzle (18) are arranged so as to project, respectively, a jet of liquid glue (2) at the second predetermined area (19) of the flap to be glued (6b) of a box under formation (6a), when the box under formation (6a) is facing the third nozzle (17) and the fourth nozzle (18).