SIMPLIFIED ADJUSTING AND/OR LOCKING DEVICE

Abstract

 An adjusting and/or locking device (100) by replacing a replaceable member (110, 120) comprising at least one engagement portion (115, 125), said device (100) comprising a locking/unlocking member (150) adapted to cooperate with said replaceable member (110, 120) by contacting it at said engagement portion (115, 125), in which said locking/unlocking member (150) comprises an inner profile (150p), comprising an engagement profile (151), and a release profile (152) arranged in sequence, in which said locking/unlocking member (150) is configured to move, between a first position (T) in which the engagement profile (151) holds the replaceable member (110, 120) in place, and a second position (R) in which the release profile (152) releases the replaceable member (110, 120) for the adjustment or replacement thereof.

Description

FIELD OF APPLICATION OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of devices for performing tool adjustments in a simplified manner. In particular, said devices allow for the adjustment and/or locking of a tool, for example, to perform a change of format. In particular, these are devices inserted within an apparatus that facilitate the adjustment of a tool or the replacement of those components that need to be modified to tailor said apparatus to a different type, or shape, or size of product to be processed.

STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Devices are known in the prior art for the adjustment and/or locking of a tool or for the replacement of components that use clamps.

[0003] By the term tool is meant any mechanical element that requires adjustment, for example, of a stroke, a working position, etc.

[0004] For example, the filling machines comprise a plurality of filling devices to insert the filling product into the containers to be filled; in said machines, adjusting and/or locking devices are known for adapting the stroke of linear actuators to the type of container to be filled or the type of filling product.

[0005] For example, the adjustment might take place by replacing spacers that serve to vary, in particular limit, the stroke of said actuators, adapting it to the type of filling product or to the dimensions/height of the container to be filled.

[0006] The adjusting and/or locking devices for the replacement of said spacers generally comprise clamps which adhere to the outer surface of said spacers and, by locking screws, create a contact force that holds the spacer in its operating position.

[0007] Upon a change of format, the blocking screws are loosened or removed, and the enlarged or open clamp releases the spacer, thus allowing it to be replaced with another spacer, for example, having a different height.

[0008] In a different, exemplary implementation, said devices may provide for clamps that are directly installed on the tool, and serve to vary, in particular limit, the stroke of said actuators, adapting it to the type of filling product or to the dimensions/height of the container to be filled.

[0009] The adjusting and/or locking devices generally comprise clamps which adhere to the outer surface of the shank and, by means of blocking screws, create a contact force that holds them in an operating position. Upon a change of format, the blocking screws are loosened or removed, and the enlarged or open clamp releases the shank, thus allowing it to be relocated, for example, at a different height.

[0010] Said known adjusting and/or locking or format change devices always require tools to lock/unlock the clamp and to act on its screws.

[0011] Therefore, the replacement of the spacer or the repositioning of the clamp can become lengthy and challenging.

[0012] For example, in filling machines, which comprise a plurality of filling devices, the operations required to unscrew/screw the screws and unlock/lock the clamps require a lengthy intervention time.

[0013] Furthermore, the locking screws, in order to ensure a good fastening, are almost always more than one.

[0014] Furthermore, often, given the plurality of filling devices on which intervention is required, these locking screws are not easily accessible with the necessary tools.

DISCLOSURE AND ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

[0015] The technical problem underlying the present invention is to provide an adjusting and/or locking device that is structurally and functionally devised to overcome one or more of the limitations set forth above with reference to the cited prior art.

[0016] In the context of the aforementioned problem, a primary aim of the invention is to develop an adjusting and/or locking device capable of operating without the need for additional tools.

[0017] In particular, a further aim of the invention is to make an adjusting and/or locking device that is capable of locking/unlocking the replaceable member to be replaced or adjusted with a quick manoeuvre.

[0018] Additionally, the invention allows for the development of an adjusting and/or locking device that is always accessible to the operator.

[0019] Furthermore, said one adjusting and/or locking device is easy and economical to manufacture.

[0020] In particular, the invention provides an adjusting and/or locking device by replacing a replaceable member.

[0021] Said replaceable member preferably comprises at least one engagement portion.

[0022] Said device preferably comprises a locking/unlocking member adapted to cooperate with said replaceable member by contacting it at said engagement portion.

[0023] Said locking/unlocking member preferably comprises an inner profile.

[0024] In particular, said inner profile comprises an engagement profile.

[0025] In particular, said inner profile comprises a release profile.

[0026] The engagement profile and the release profile are preferably arranged in sequence.

[0027] Advantageously, said locking/unlocking member is configured to move, between a first position where the engagement profile holds the replaceable member in position, and a second position where the release profile releases the replaceable member for the adjustment or replacement thereof.

[0028] By virtue of a displacement between two positions, it is possible to lock or unlock the replaceable member for its replacement.

[0029] Advantageously, the locking/unlocking member transitions from the first position to the second position by linearly translating according to a translation axis.

[0030] This linear translation makes the manoeuvre easy to perform.

[0031] The locking/unlocking member preferably comprises an opening passing through the thickness thereof.

[0032] In particular, said through opening defines the inner profile.

[0033] The locking/unlocking member is preferably a planar and preferably symmetrical member with respect to the translation axis.

[0034] This solution makes the locking/unlocking member easy to manufacture.

[0035] Advantageously, when the locking/unlocking member is in the second position, said engagement portion is coaxial with the release profile.

[0036] When the locking/unlocking member is preferably in the first position, the engagement portion is coaxial with the engagement profile.

[0037] By virtue of this solution, the transition from the locking to the unlocking position, and vice versa, is made easier.

[0038] Advantageously, the release profile is at least greater than or equal to an outer surface, respectively, of the engagement portion.

[0039] Advantageously, the outer surface of the engagement portion comprises a cylindrical surface and the release profile comprises a circumference portion.

[0040] This aspect simplifies the manufacturing of the device.

[0041] Advantageously, in the first position the engagement profile engages in a recess of said engagement portion.

[0042] This allows defining precisely and univocally the achievement of the engaged position.

[0043] The recess of said engagement portion preferably comprises a cylindrical shape, and the engagement profile comprises a circumference portion.

[0044] This aspect simplifies the manufacturing of the device.

[0045] Advantageously, the inner profile comprises a control profile adapted to cooperate with at least one control member to activate the retention or release of said replaceable member.

[0046] Said control profile preferably contacts the control member making a restraining action of the locking/unlocking member in the first position.

[0047] This aspect also allows defining precisely and univocally the achievement of the engaged position.

[0048] The device preferably comprises a guide member.

[0049] Said guide member is preferably located, with respect to the control member, at the opposite side of the locking/unlocking member.

[0050] This allows translating the locking/unlocking member in a linear manner, according to the translation axis, between the first position and the second position, and vice versa.

[0051] Advantageously, the control member and/or the guide member have a cylindrical shape.

[0052] This simplifies the manufacturing of the device.

[0053] The control profile preferably comprises a semicircumference that contacts the control member when the locking/unlocking member is in the second position.

[0054] Advantageously, the inner profile comprises a guide profile.

[0055] Said guide profile preferably comprises a guide semicircumference that contacts the guide member when the locking/unlocking member is in the first position.

[0056] This allows guiding the displacement of the locking/unlocking member, avoiding any doubts for the operator regarding the manoeuvre to be performed.

[0057] Advantageously, the semicircumference of the control profile extends towards the release profile, thereby defining a loop.

[0058] Said loop is preferably of equal diameter to the semicircumference of the control profile.

[0059] This allows the translation of the locking/unlocking member in the first position according to the translation direction.

[0060] Said control profile preferably ends with a narrowing and/or an opposing narrowing at or in the proximity of the release profile.

[0061] In particular, in the first position all of the control profile is located beyond the maximum width of the control member according to a holding direction, directed from the second position to the first position.

[0062] This allows the blocking action of the locking/unlocking member on the replaceable member.

[0063] Advantageously, the inner profile of the locking/unlocking member is open.

[0064] The inner profile of the locking/unlocking member is preferably open at the control profile.

[0065] The locking/unlocking member preferably comprises a discontinuity preferably at the control profile.

[0066] Said discontinuity is preferably located halfway of the semicircumference of the control profile, in particular on the translation axis Y.

[0067] This optimizes the effect of reducing the force required to move the locking/unlocking member.

[0068] In particular, when transitioning from the first position to the second position, a force is applied onto the locking/unlocking member.

[0069] Said force is preferably directed according to the release direction.

[0070] Said force overcomes the contact force between the control member and the narrowing to exceed its maximum width, in particular by opening the discontinuity.

[0071] Advantageously, the guide semicircumference of the guide profile extends defining a guide loop.

[0072] Said guide loop is of equal diameter to the guide semicircumference of the guide profile.

[0073] Said guide loop preferably extends towards the engagement profile to allow the translation of the locking/unlocking member to the second position.

[0074] The control profile is preferably arranged at a first end of the locking/unlocking member and preferably the guide profile is arranged at a second end of the locking/unlocking member.

[0075] The locking/unlocking member preferably comprises un manoeuvre member for manual handling.

[0076] It is an object of the invention also an adjusting and/or locking device configured to adjust or replace said replaceable member, in particular a spacer, in an actuator.

[0077] In particular, said actuator can be comprised in a filling valve.

[0078] Such and other objects are achieved by virtue of the characteristics of the invention set forth in the independent claim 1. The dependent claims outline preferred and/or particularly advantageous aspects of the invention.

[0079] Said objects and advantages are all achieved by the adjusting and/or locking device that is the subject matter of the present invention, which is characterized by what is provided for in the claims set forth herein below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0080] This and other characteristics will be further highlighted by the following description of some embodiments illustrated merely by way of non-limiting example in the attached drawing tables.

• Fig. 1a, 1b, 1c: shows in axonometric view an adjusting and/or locking device according to the invention in the locking, unlocking, and replacement positions;
• Fig. 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d: shows in a side sectional view an adjusting and/or locking device applied to a tool such as a pneumatic actuator;
• Fig. 3a, 3b: shows a sectional view of an adjusting and/or locking device in the locking and unlocking positions with a first embodiment of the locking/unlocking member;
• Fig. 4a, 4b: shows an axonometric and plan view of a first embodiment of the locking/unlocking member;
• Fig. 5a, 5b: shows in a plan view a locking/unlocking member having control member and guide member in the first and second positions;
• Fig. 6a, 6b: shows a sectional view of an adjusting and/or locking device in the locking and unlocking positions with a different embodiment of the locking/unlocking member;
• Fig. 7a, 7b: shows an axonometric and plan view of a different embodiment of the locking/unlocking member;
• Fig. 8: shows in axonometric view an adjusting and/or locking device applied to a filling device.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0081] Referring particularly to Fig. 1a, 1b, 1c, an adjusting and/or locking device 100 is depicted.

[0082] In Fig. 1a, 1b, 1c, only the adjusting and/or locking device 100 is depicted, not inserted into a manufacturing apparatus.

[0083] In Fig. 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, the adjusting and/or locking device 100 for adjusting a tool, in particular for adjusting the stroke of a pneumatic actuator, is depicted.

[0084] In Fig. 8, an example of a locking and/or adjusting device 100 inserted into a manufacturing apparatus is set forth.

[0085] In particular, this is a filling apparatus 200 that can be installed in a filling machine.

[0086] The adjusting and/or locking device 100 can facilitate the replacement of those components that need to be modified to tailor said apparatus 200 to a different type of filling product, or to a different shape or size of container to be processed.

[0087] In Fig. 8, in particular, the device 100 facilitates the adjustment of the stroke of an actuator in order to tailor said apparatus 200 to a specific filling product, in particular, in Fig. 8, it acts on the opening/closure of a shutter known to those skilled in the art.

[0088] Said adjusting and/or locking device 100 is configured to allow the replacement of a first replaceable member 110 with at least a second replaceable member 120.

[0089] In the filling apparatus 200 installable in a filling machine depicted in Fig. 8, the replacement of a first replaceable member 110 with at least a second replaceable member 120 involves a stroke variation of the actuator.

[0090] The replacement might take place between a first replaceable member 110 and a plurality of different components, the number and type of which depends on the plurality of format changes and/or adjustments to be carried out, which is generally related to the variety of products that the machine or apparatus has to process.

[0091] Hereafter, we will refer to replaceable members 110, 120, in general, as the number of said components can be variable.

[0092] For simplicity, we will identify in particular a first replaceable member 110 and at least a second replaceable member 120.

[0093] Saird first replaceable member 110 comprises at least one first engagement portion 115.

[0094] Saird second replaceable member 120 comprises at least one second engagement portion 125.

[0095] The first engagement portion 115 of the first replaceable member 110 is preferably equal in shape and dimensions to the corresponding second engagement portion 125 of the second body 120.

[0096] The first replaceable member 110 is different from the second replaceable member 120 precisely to allow for different adjustments, for example to process different products; however, it is important that said first replaceable member 110 comprises at least one first portion 115 that is equal to a second portion 125 of the second replaceable member 120.

[0097] As will be described herein below, the adjusting and/or locking device 100 operates at said first or second portion 115, 125.

[0098] According to a preferred embodiment, said device 100 comprises a locking/unlocking member 150 adapted to cooperate with said first and second replaceable members 110, 120.

[0099] In particular the locking/unlocking member 150 contacts said first and second replaceable members 110, 120 at said first and second engagement portions 115, 125.

[0100] Said first engagement portion 115 preferably comprises a first outer surface 112 and said second engagement portion 125 comprises a second outer surface 122.

[0101] Further preferably, the first engagement portion 115 comprises a first recess 116 and the second engagement portion 125 comprises a second recess 126.

[0102] The first recess 116 and/or the second recess 126 may extend also only a portion of the first outer surface 112 and/or of the second outer surface 122.

[0103] In particular, the locking/unlocking member 150 engages in said first and second recesses 116, 126.

[0104] Preferably, the locking/unlocking member 150 is configured to take a first position T where it holds the first or second replaceable member 110, 120 in place, and a second position R where it releases the first or second replaceable member 110, 120 for its replacement.

[0105] In particular, the transition from the first position T to the second position R occurs by translation of the locking/unlocking member 150 according to a translation axis Y in the release direction Y'.

[0106] In particular, the transition from the second position R to the first position T occurs by translation of the locking/unlocking member 150 according to the translation axis Y in the holding direction Y".

[0107] Preferably, during the translation, the locking/unlocking member 150 cooperates with at least one control member 130.

[0108] The interaction of the locking/unlocking member 150 with said control member 130 allows activating the retention or release of said first and second replaceable members 110, 120.

[0109] According to an embodiment depicted in the Figures, said locking/unlocking member 150 comprises an opening 150a passing through the thickness S thereof.

[0110] In particular, said opening 150a defines an inner profile 150p. Preferably, said inner profile 150p comprises an engagement profile 151, a release profile 152.

[0111] In particular, the engagement profile 151 engages in the first and second recesses 116, 126 of said first engagement portion 115 and second engagement portion 125.

[0112] This allows holding the first or second replaceable members 110, 120 in place.

[0113] Preferably, said engagement profile 151 engages in the first and second recesses 116, 126 preferably along a portion of said first and second recesses 116, 126.

[0114] For example, said engagement profile 151 engages in the first and second recesses 116, 126 on opposing sides of the first or second replaceable members 110, 120 with respect to the translation axis Y.

[0115] Preferably the release profile 152 is located next to the engagement profile 151, in particular according to the holding direction Y".

[0116] In particular, the release profile 152 is at least greater than or equal to the first or second outer surface 112, 122, respectively, of the first and second engagement portion 115, 125.

[0117] This allows releasing the first or second replaceable member 110, 120, thus allowing for its sliding out through the opening 150a, for its replacement.

[0118] Said release profile 152 is preferably located on two opposing sides, with respect to the translation axis Y, of the first or second outer surface 112, 122.

[0119] According to an aspect of the invention, said inner profile 150p preferably comprises a control profile 153.

[0120] The control profile 153 preferably contacts a part of the outer surface of the control member 130.

[0121] In particular, the control profile 153 makes a restraining action of the locking/unlocking member 150.

[0122] In particular, the control profile 153 is so shaped as to prevent an inadvertent translation of the locking/unlocking member 150 according to the translation axis Y, according to the release direction Y', by holding it in the first position T.

[0123] In Fig., a preferred embodiment in which the locking/unlocking member 150 is a planar member is depicted.

[0124] In particular, the thickness S thereof is less than the two dimensions of width and length.

[0125] The length and width of the locking/unlocking member 150 preferably extend on the working plane where said locking/unlocking member 150 translates.

[0126] The inner profile 150p of said opening 150a is preferably symmetrical relative to a plane orthogonal to said working plane and passing through the translation axis Y.

[0127] In particular, the translation of the locking/unlocking member 150 according to the translation axis Y, occurs so that:

• preferably, when said locking/unlocking member 150 is in the second position R, said first engagement portion 115 or second engagement portion 125 is coaxial with the release profile 152;
• preferably, when said locking/unlocking member 150 is in the first position T, the first engagement portion 115 or second engagement portion 125 is coaxial with the engagement profile 151.

[0128] According to an aspect of the invention, in order to allow translating the locking/unlocking member 150 in a linear manner between the first position T and the second position R, the adjusting and/or locking device 100 further comprises a guide member 140.

[0129] Said guide member 140 is preferably located on the opposing part to the first or second replaceable member 110, 120 with respect to the control member 130.

[0130] Therefore, as depicted in the Figure, the guide member 140 and the control member 130 are respectively located at a first end 150' and at a second end 150" of the locking/unlocking member 150 preferably on the translation axis Y.

[0131] A preferred embodiment provides for the guide member 140 and/or the control member 130 to extend in an orthogonal direction to the working plane of the locking/unlocking member 150, in particular to extend respectively along an extension axis X, X'.

[0132] In particular, the guide member 140 and the control member 130 have parallel extension axes X, X'.

[0133] A preferred embodiment provides for the control member 130 and/or the guide member 140 to have a cylindrical shape.

[0134] This simplifies the manufacturing, and often allows for the use of existing pins, for example, in the filling devices of filling machines, as depicted in Fig. 8.

[0135] According to an aspect of the invention, the inner profile 150p comprises a guide profile 154 that contacts a part of the outer surface of the guide member 140.

[0136] A preferred solution provides for the guide profile 154 to be located at the first end 150' of the locking/unlocking member 150 and preferably the control profile 153 to be located at to the second end 150" of the locking/unlocking member 150.

[0137] In particular, the engagement profile 151 and the release profile 152 are arranged side by side between the guide profile 154 and the control profile 153.

[0138] In the Figure, an embodiment is depicted, which provides, in sequence from the first end 150' to the second end 150": the guide profile 154, the engagement profile 151, the release profile 152, and the control profile 153.

[0139] Said guide profile 154 preferably comprises a guide semicircumference 154a that contacts the guide member 140, in particular when the locking/unlocking member 150 is in the first position T.

[0140] According to a further aspect of the invention, the control profile 153 comprises a semicircumference 153a that contacts the control member 130 when the locking/unlocking member 150 is in the second position R.

[0141] Said control member 130 also serves as an end of stroke when the second position R is reached.

[0142] In the Figures, a preferred implementation is depicted, in which the control member 130 and/or the guide member 140 comprise a recess 131, 141 into which the control profile 153 and the guide profile 154 respectively engage during the translation in the translation direction Y. According to a first preferred implementation depicted in Figs. 4 and 5, the semicircumference 153a of the control profile 153 has a diameter that is less than the outer cylindrical surface 130a of the control member 130 and preferably having a diameter greater than the diameter of the recess 131.

[0143] The guide semicircumference 154a of the guide profile 154 preferably has diameter that is less than the outer cylindrical surface 140a of the guide member 140, and preferably having a diameter greater than the diameter of the recess 141.

[0144] This makes so that, during the translation, the locking/unlocking member 150 remains engaged in the recess 131, 141 and stays on the working plane without moving in a direction orthogonal thereto.

[0145] In this manner, the control member 130 and/or the guide member 140, besides guiding the locking/unlocking member 150 in a linear manner in the translation direction Y, from the first position T to the second position R, keeps it also on the working plane.

[0146] According to a different embodiment depicted in Figs. 6 and 7, the semicircumference 153a of the control profile 153 proceeds towards the release profile 152 with a circular extension 153c.

[0147] As depicted in Figs. 6 and 7, an alternative solution provides for the semicircumference 153a of the control profile 153 to have a diameter that is greater than or equal to the outer cylindrical surface 130a of the control member 130.

[0148] The guide semicircumference 154a of the guide profile 154 preferably has a diameter less than the outer cylindrical surface 140a of the guide member 140 and preferably having a diameter greater than the diameter of the recess 141.

[0149] According to a preferred implementation depicted in Figs. 6 and 7, the guide semicircumference 154a of the guide profile 154 extends towards the engagement profile 151, thus defining a guide circular extension 154c having a diameter greater than or equal to the outer cylindrical surface 140a of the guide member 140.

[0150] This makes so that, when the second position R is reached, the guide profile 154 disengages from the recess 141 of the guide member 140.

[0151] Simultaneously with the achievement of the second position R, the control profile 153 disengages from the recess 131.

[0152] This allows translating the locking/unlocking member 150 in a direction orthogonal to the working plane.

[0153] According to a preferred implementation, the semicircumference 153a of the control profile 153 extends towards the release profile 152, thus defining a loop 153b of equal diameter to the semicircumference, which allows the translation, according to the translation axis Y, of the locking/unlocking member 150.

[0154] Therefore, during the translation, in the holding direction Y" towards the first position T, the control member 130 contacts the loop 153b. According to a preferred implementation, the guide semicircumference 154a of the guide profile 154 extends defining a guide loop 154b of equal diameter towards the engagement profile 151 to allow for a guided translation, according to the translation axis Y, of the locking/unlocking member 150.

[0155] Therefore, during the translation towards the second position R, the guide member 140 contacts the loop 154b.

[0156] When the locking/unlocking member 150 is in the first position T, the first and second recess 116, 126 preferably contact the engagement profile 151, and preferably the guide circumference 154a of the guide profile 154 contacts the guide member 140.

[0157] Said guide member 140 also serves as an end of stroke when the first position T is reached.

[0158] According to an advantageous aspect of the invention, said control profile 153 ends with a narrowing 153r.

[0159] Said narrowing 153r is preferably located at the release profile 152.

[0160] The control profile 153 preferably comprises an opposing narrowing 153r'.

[0161] The narrowing 153r and the opposing narrowing 153r', contact the control member 130 on two opposing sides with respect to the translation axis Y.

[0162] According to an advantageous aspect of the invention, depicted in Figs. 4 and 5, the loop 153b, ends with the narrowing 153r and/or the opposing narrowing 153r'.

[0163] In the embodiment of Figs. 6 and 7, the circular extension 153c defines the narrowing 153r and/or the opposing narrowing 153r' of said control profile 153.

[0164] As depicted in Fig. 1a, or in Fig. 3b, 6b, in the first position T, all of the control profile 153 is located beyond the maximum width of the control member 130, in the holding direction Y", i.e., in moving away from the replaceable member 110, 120.

[0165] In particular, in the first position T, the narrowing 153r and/or the opposing narrowing 153r', is in contact with the cylindrical control member 130 beyond its extension axis X, i.e., beyond its maximum diameter, in the holding direction Y'.

[0166] In particular, in the first position T, the narrowing 153r and/or the opposing narrowing 153r', engages in the recess 131.

[0167] This allows performing the restraining action of the locking/unlocking member 150, thus preventing the inadvertent translation thereof towards the second position R.

[0168] In fact, the distance between the narrowing 153r and the opposing narrowing 153r', with which termina the control profile 153 ends, is less than the diameter of the control member 130.

[0169] In particular, the distance between the narrowing 153r and the opposing narrowing 153r' is less than the diameter of the recess 131.

[0170] Therefore, this does not allow translating the locking/unlocking member 150 to exceed the maximum width or the diameter of the control member 130 and/or of the recess 131, with the narrowing 153r and/or the opposing narrowing 153r', unless by applying a force F directed according to the translation axis Y.

[0171] In order to allow the narrowing 153r and/or the opposing narrowing 153r' to pass beyond the extension axis X' in a controlled manner, i.e., upon the application of a force F than should not be excessive and challenging to the operator, the inner profile 150p of the locking/unlocking member 150 is preferably open.

[0172] In particular, the inner profile 150p is open at the control profile 153.

[0173] The inner profile 150p is preferably open, i.e., the locking/unlocking member 150 comprises a discontinuity 153i.

[0174] Said discontinuity 153i is preferably located at the control profile 153.

[0175] Further preferably, said discontinuity 153i is halfway the semicircumference 153a of the control profile 153, preferably on the translation axis Y.

[0176] That is, said discontinuity 153i is parallel to the translation direction Y.

[0177] In particular, when transitioning from the first position T to the second position R, the force F is applied, which is directed according to the translation axis Y, in particular in the release direction Y'.

[0178] This force overcomes the contact force between the control member 130 and the narrowing 153r, and leads to the opening of the discontinuity 153i in order to exceed, with the narrowing 153r and/or the opposing narrowing 153r', the maximum width of the control member 130 and/or of the recess 131.

[0179] Without the discontinuity 153i, the force F to be applied to transition from the first position T to the second position R would be too high, and would make the translation manoeuvre of the locking/unlocking member 150 difficult.

[0180] Preferably, the same applies to the transition from the second position R to the first position T, in which the locking force F' directed according to the translation axis Y, and having an opposing sense with respect to the release force F is applied.

[0181] This force F overcomes the contact force between the control member 130 and the narrowing 153r and/or the opposing narrowing 153r', and leads to the opening of the discontinuity 153i in order to exceed, with the narrowing 153r and/or the opposing narrowing 153r', the maximum width of the control member 130 and/or of the recess 131.

[0182] A preferred embodiment provides for the locking/unlocking member 150 to comprise a manoeuvre member 160 for manual handling.

[0183] This manoeuvre member 160 allows the operator to have a gripping point that facilitates the application the force F on the locking/unlocking member 150, both in push and pull actions.

[0184] In the Figure, a preferred embodiment is depicted, in which the first or second outer surface 112, 122 of the first engagement portion 115 and of the second engagement portion 125 comprises a first and a second cylindrical surfaces 113, 123.

[0185] This is merely an exemplary depiction that does not limit the usage of alternative shapes to the cylindrical one, for example, rectangular or square shapes, etc.

[0186] In such a case, the release profile 152 preferably comprises a circumference portion 152c.

[0187] In the Figure, a preferred embodiment is depicted, in which the first and second recesses 116, 126 of said first engagement portion 115 and second engagement portion 125 comprises a cylindrical shape.

[0188] In such a case, the engagement profile 151 preferably comprises a circumference portion 151c.

[0189] This construction shape simplifies the manufacturing of the components of the device 100.

[0190] In the Figure, a preferred embodiment is depicted, in which the first and/or second outer surfaces 112, 122 comprise a first and second planar faces 114, 124, respectively, on the first and second cylindrical surface 113, 123.

[0191] This allows for the creation of an anti-rotation effect of the locking/unlocking member 150, as depicted in the Figure; it can also serve as an end of stroke, as will be explained further below.

[0192] In such a case, the engagement profile 151 preferably comprises a rectilinear portion 151b to contact said first and second planar faces 114, 124.

[0193] In particular, said rectilinear portion 151b is on the opposing side of the locking/unlocking member 150 with respect to the release profile 152.

[0194] When the locking/unlocking member 150 is in the first position T, the first and second recesses 116, 126 preferably contact the engagement profile 151 and the rectilinear portion 151b contacts said planar face114, 124 and preferably the guide circumference 154a of the guide profile 154 contacts the guide member 140.

[0195] According to a preferred application implementation, said device 100 cooperates with said first and second replaceable members 110, 120 which is a spacer 111, 121, as depicted in Figure 1.

[0196] Said spacer 111, 121 is preferably cylindrical and preferably having a through opening on the height thereof and extending to the outer surface thereof.

[0197] This simplifies the removal of the replaceable member 110 and 120 in cases where, for example, it needs to be applied to a shank of an actuator, as depicted in Fig. 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d.

[0198] In Fig. 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, a particular application is depicted, in which the device 100 is configured to replace the spacer 111, 121 in an actuator 201, for example, a pneumatic actuator, for example of a filling valve 200 of a filling machine.

[0199] In particular, in such a case, the device 100 comprises to locking/unlocking members 150 cooperating with the respective control members 130 and guide members 140.

[0200] In particular, a first locking/unlocking member 150 is located above a second locking/unlocking member 150.

[0201] In particular, the first locking/unlocking member 150, by the insertion of a spacer 111, 121, serves to limit the closure of the shank of an actuator 201, for example, a pneumatic one.

[0202] In particular, the second locking/unlocking member 150, by the insertion of another spacer 111', 121', serves to limit the opening of the shank of the same actuator, for example, a pneumatic one.

[0203] It is anyhow understood that what has been described above is for exemplary, non-limiting purposes only; therefore, any detail variations that may be necessary for technical and/or functional reasons are considered to fall within the same protective scope defined by the claims set forth herein below.

Claims

1. An adjusting and/or locking device (100) by replacing a replaceable member (110, 120) comprising at least one engagement portion (115, 125), said device (100) comprising a locking/unlocking member (150) adapted to cooperate with said replaceable member (110, 120) by contacting it at said engagement portion (115, 125)
characterized in that
said locking/unlocking member (150) comprises an inner profile (150p) comprising an engagement profile (151) and a release profile (152) arranged in sequence, wherein said locking/unlocking member (150) is configured to move, between a first position (T) in which the engagement profile (151) holds the replaceable member (110, 120) in place, and a second position (R) in which the release profile (152) releases the replaceable member (110, 120) for the adjustment or replacement thereof.

2. The adjusting and/or locking device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking/unlocking member (150) transitions from the first position (T) to the second position (R) by linearly translating according to a translation axis (Y).

3. The adjusting and/or locking device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking/unlocking member (150) comprises an opening (150a) passing through the thickness (S) thereof, which defines the inner profile (150p).

4. The adjusting and/or locking device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking/unlocking member (150) is a planar and preferably symmetrical member with respect to the translation axis (Y).

5. The adjusting and/or locking device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, when the locking/unlocking member (150) is in the second position (R), said engagement portion (115, 125) is coaxial with the release profile (152), and preferably, when the locking/unlocking member (150) is in the first position (T), the engagement portion (115, 125) is coaxial with the engagement profile (151).

6. The adjusting and/or locking device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, in the first position (T) the engagement profile (151) engages in a recess (116, 126) of said engagement portion (115, 125).

7. The adjusting and/or locking device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the release profile (152) is at least greater than or equal to an outer surface (112, 122), respectively, of the engagement portion (115, 125).

8. The adjusting and/or locking device (100) according to the claim 7, wherein the outer surface (112, 122) of the engagement portion (115, 125) comprises a cylindrical surface (113, 123) and the release profile (152) comprises a circumference portion (152c).

9. The adjusting and/or locking device (100) according to any one of the claims 6 to 8, wherein the recess (116, 126) of said engagement portion (115, 125) comprises a cylindrical shape and the engagement profile (151) comprises a circumference portion (151c).

10. The adjusting and/or locking device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner profile (150p) comprises a control profile (153) adapted to cooperate with at least a control member (130) to activate the retention or release of said replaceable member (110, 120), preferably said control profile (153) contacts the control member (130) making a restraining action of the locking/unlocking member (150) in the first position (T).

11. The adjusting and/or locking device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, which comprises a guide member (140) preferably located, with respect to the control member (130), at the opposite side of the locking/unlocking member (150) to linearly translate, according to the translation axis (Y), the locking/unlocking member (150) between the first position (T) and the second position (R), and vice versa.

12. The adjusting and/or locking device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control member (130) and/or the guide member (140) have a cylindrical shape.

13. The adjusting and/or locking device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the control profile (153) comprises a semicircumference (153a) that contacts the control member (130) when the locking/unlocking member (150) is in the second position (R) and preferably wherein, in the first position (T), all the control profile (153) is located beyond the maximum width of the control member (130) according to a holding direction Y", directed from the second position R to the first position T.

14. The adjusting and/or locking device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner profile (150p) comprises a guide profile (154) preferably comprising a guide semicircumference (154a) that contacts the guide member (140) when the locking/unlocking member (150) is in the first position (T).

15. The adjusting and/or locking device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said control profile (153) ends with a narrowing (153r) and/or an opposing narrowing (153r') at the release profile (152).

16. The adjusting and/or locking device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner profile (150p) of the locking/unlocking member (150) is open preferably at the control profile (153).

17. The adjusting and/or locking device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control profile (153) is arranged at a first end (150') of the locking/unlocking member (150) and preferably the guide profile (154) is arranged at a second end (150") of the locking/unlocking member (150).

18. The adjusting and/or locking device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, configured to adjust or replace said replaceable member (110, 120), in particular a spacer (111, 121), in an actuator (201) preferably in a filling valve (200).

Drawing