WRAPPING MACHINE FOR A CONTAINER FILLED WITH LOOSE PRODUCTS AND METHOD FOR WRAPPING A CONTAINER

Abstract

 A wrapping machine (10) for a container (200) filled with loose products comprises a first wrapping path (WP1) extending between a respective loading station (CS1) and a respective extraction station (ES1), a first wrapping equipment (16) movable along the first wrapping path (WP1) and comprising an insertion opening (21), a feeder (52) of wrapping sheets (100) for placing wrapping sheets (100) at the loading station (CS1), a pusher (33) for pushing a container (200) inside the first wrapping equipment (16) while intercepting a wrapping sheet (100). The first wrapping equipment (16) further comprising a bottom wall (22) opposite the insertion opening (21), a pair of folding walls (23, 24) located between the bottom wall (22) and the insertion opening (21) and configured to fold the wrapping sheet (100) to at least partially cover of side walls of the container (200), folding appendages (25) facing each other, located between the pair of folding walls (23, 24) and between the bottom wall (22) and the insertion opening (21), and configured to fold the wrapping sheet (100) to at least partially cover further side walls of the container (200).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a wrapping machine for a container filled with loose products and a method for wrapping a container.

[0002] The present invention is used in the manufacturing sector to wrap, with an outer wrapping, a container previously made and filled with products, such as food products like chocolates, candies, sugared almonds and the like. Such an outer wrapping can for example be a sheet of paper or more preferably a sheet of barrier material to water vapour and oxygen.

[0003] In the Applicant's experience, in order to enable containers to be wrapped quickly and repeatably, it is important to have automated devices capable of wrapping outer wrappings around containers in sheet form.

[0004] In accordance with the Applicant's experience, such automated devices allow the wrapping sheet (which forms the outer wrapper) to be folded in a U shape around the container so that the outer wrapper has two free edges. Next, the two free edges are to be folded to be partially overlapped to form a tubular outer casing open at a first and at a second end and having four free flaps at the first end and four free flaps at the second end. Next, it is provided to fold two free first flaps and two free second flaps to close the first end of the tubular casing and to fold the two first free flaps and second two free flaps to close the second end of the tubular casing.

[0005] In order to perform the above, in accordance with the Applicant's experience, such devices usually comprise a conveyor, usually rotating, provided with a plurality of outwardly open wrapping slots movable along an advancement path between an insertion station and an extraction station. The container to be wrapped is inserted in a respective wrapping station at the insertion station, placing the wrapping sheet between the container and the wrapping station so that the insertion of the container in the wrapping seat pulls the wrapping sheet into the wrapping seat, wrapping in a U-shape on the container. A movable folding flap, located near the insertion station, folds the first of the two free edges of the U-shaped wrapping machine at right angles to adhere it to a container wall. The wrapping seat is moved along the advancement path, rotating the conveyor, to reach below a contrasting element which, intercepting the second free edge, folds the second free edge to partially overlap the first free edge, making a tubular wrapper. A first pair of folding devices acts, along the advancement path, on a first pair of free flaps located at a first end of the U-shaped wrapper and folds such flaps at right angles against a base wall of the container. Similarly, a second pair of folding devices acts, along the advancement path, on a first pair of free flaps located at a second end of the U-shaped wrapper and folds such flaps at right angles against a top wall of the container. A third pair of folding devices acts, along the advancement path, on a second pair of free flaps located at the first end of the U-shaped wrapper and folds such flaps to partially overlap the first pair of flaps to complete the wrapping of the base wall of the container. Similarly, a third pair of folding devices acts, along the advancement path, on a second pair of free flaps located at the second end of the U-shaped wrapper and folds such flaps to partially overlap the first pair of flaps to complete the wrapping of the top wall of the container. The resulting outer wrapper adheres to the walls of the container, completely overlapping it. The container, thus wrapped, is ejected from the wrapping seat when the wrapping seat reaches an extraction station located along the advancement path.

[0006] The Applicant has verified that with automatic devices and wrapping methods such as those summarised above, it is possible to effectively wrap cube- and parallelepiped-shaped containers.

[0007] The Applicant has noted, however, that if the containers to be wrapped are not cube- or parallelepiped-shaped, the resulting wrapping can in some cases have creases or not adhere completely to the container.

[0008] In particular, the Applicant has noted that this happens mainly when one of the following cases occurs, individually or in combination: the container to be wrapped does not have top and base walls that are identical in shape and size; when the container has side walls that are not perfectly flat; when the container has side walls that are not perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the top or base wall.

[0009] The Applicant believes that if the wrapper does not properly adhere to the container or if the wrapper has obvious creases, the wrapped container does not have adequate aesthetic features to be effectively marketed as a premium product.

[0010] The Applicant has verified that, at least in the above-mentioned cases, by folding the free flaps, which are formed as a result of the tubular formation of the wrapper on the container, the wrapper tends to create creases or to lift (at least in some places) with respect to the container.

[0011] The Applicant has found that by folding at least some of the free flaps of the wrapper, which would be formed following the tubular formation of the wrapper on the container, before actually forming a tubular shaped wrapper, it is possible to wrap containers of a shape other than a cube or parallelepiped shape without creating creases or minimising the formation of creases in the wrapper and ensuring adequate adhesion of the wrapper to the container.

[0012] The present invention therefore concerns, in a first aspect thereof, a device for wrapping a container.

[0013] Preferably, an initial wrapping path is provided which extends between a respective loading station and a respective extraction station.

[0014] Preferably, a first wrapping equipment is provided movable along the first wrapping path and comprising an insertion opening.

[0015] Preferably, a wrapping sheet loader is provided which is configured to sequentially place wrapping sheets at the loading station.

[0016] Preferably, a pusher is provided located at the loading station and configured to push a container into the first wrapping equipment while intercepting a wrapping sheet.

[0017] Preferably, said first wrapping equipment further comprises a bottom wall opposite the insertion opening.

[0018] Preferably, said first wrapping equipment further comprises a pair of folding walls comprising a first folding wall and a second folding wall facing each other.

[0019] Preferably, the first folding wall and the second folding wall are located between the bottom wall and the insertion opening.

[0020] Preferably, the first folding wall and the second folding wall are configured to fold the wrapping sheet to at least partially cover the container side walls.

[0021] Preferably, said first wrapping equipment further comprises folding appendages facing each other.

[0022] Preferably, the folding appendages are placed between the pair of folding walls and between the bottom wall and the insertion opening.

[0023] Preferably, the folding appendages are configured to fold the wrapping sheet to at least partially cover further container side walls.

[0024] The present invention relates, in a second aspect thereof, to a method for wrapping a container.

[0025] Preferably, it is provided to arrange a container having a bottom wall and a top wall opposite the bottom wall, a first side wall, a second side wall, a third side wall and a fourth side wall extending between the bottom wall and the top wall.

[0026] Preferably, the first side wall is opposite the second side wall and the third side wall is opposite the fourth side wall, the third side wall and the fourth side wall extend between the first side wall and the second side wall.

[0027] Preferably, it is provided to arrange a first wrapping equipment and to insert the container in an insertion opening of the first wrapping equipment.

[0028] Preferably, inserting the container in an insertion opening of the first wrapping equipment comprises arranging a wrapping sheet to at least partially cover the first side wall.

[0029] Preferably, inserting the container in an insertion opening of the first wrapping equipment comprises arranging the wrapping sheet to cover the bottom wall and to at least partially cover the second side wall of the container.

[0030] Preferably, inserting the container in an insertion opening of the first wrapping equipment comprises arranging the wrapping sheet to at least partially cover the third side wall and to at least partially cover the fourth side wall of the container.

[0031] Preferably, it is provided to completely wrap the container with the wrapping sheet after inserting the container in the insertion opening of the first wrapping equipment.

[0032] The Applicant has verified that the first folding wall and the second folding wall, together with the bottom wall of the first wrapping equipment, enable the wrapping sheet to be arranged to cover the bottom wall and to at least partially cover the second side wall of the container.

[0033] The Applicant has verified that the folding appendages enable to arrange the wrapping sheet to at least partially cover the third side wall and to at least partially cover the fourth side wall of the container.

[0034] The Applicant has found that by arranging the first folding wall, the second folding wall and the folding appendages on the first wrapping equipment, the wrapping sheet is arranged to at least partially cover the side walls of the container before forming a tubular-shaped wrapper around the container.

[0035] The expression "above" is understood in the present disclosure and subsequent claims to mean an indication of the relative position of one element with respect to another along a direction parallel and concordant to the force of gravity. For example, when a first element is located above a second element, the second element is interposed between a support surface (such as the floor of a factory) and the first element.

[0036] The expression "below" is understood in the present disclosure and subsequent claims to mean an indication of the relative position of one element with respect to another along a direction parallel and concordant to the force of gravity. For example, when a first element is located below a second element, the first element is interposed between a support surface (such as the floor of a factory) and the second element.

[0037] The term "horizontal" is understood in the present description and subsequent claims to mean a direction perpendicular to the force of gravity. As an example, a horizontal plane is a plane parallel to the floor of a factory in which the wrapping machine is placed.

[0038] The present invention can have at least one of the preferred features described below. Such features may be present individually or in combination, unless expressly stated otherwise, either in the device for wrapping a container or in the method for wrapping a container of the present invention.

[0039] Preferably, inserting the container in an insertion opening of the first wrapping equipment comprises pushing the container in the first wrapping equipment by interposing a wrapping sheet between the container and the first wrapping equipment.

[0040] Preferably, inserting the container in an insertion opening of the first wrapping equipment is performed with the first wrapping equipment stationary in the loading station.

[0041] Preferably, arranging the wrapping sheet to at least partially cover the first side wall and the second side wall of the container comprises making a first surplus of wrapping sheet extending beyond said first side wall and making a second surplus of wrapping sheet extending beyond said second side wall.

[0042] Preferably, said first surplus of wrapping sheet extends beyond said first side wall of the container comprises a first portion extending in directions directed towards the third side wall of the container and towards the fourth side wall of the container and a second portion extending in directions directed towards the top wall of the container.

[0043] Preferably, said second surplus of wrapping sheet extends beyond said second side wall of the container in directions directed towards the third side wall of the container and towards the fourth side wall of the container.

[0044] Preferably, the folding appendages, the first folding wall and the second folding wall are spaced to define respective passage openings configured for the passage of surplus wrapping sheet beyond the side walls of the container.

[0045] Preferably, the first wrapping equipment comprises passage openings for surplus wrapping sheet located between the first folding wall and the folding appendages and between the second folding wall and the folding appendages, respectively.

[0046] Preferably, the first folding wall, the second folding wall and the folding appendages are at least partially counter-shaped to the respective side walls of the container.

[0047] Preferably, the wrapping sheet is folded due to a contrasting action on the wrapping sheet exerted by the first folding wall, the second folding wall and the folding appendages.

[0048] Preferably, arranging a wrapping sheet to at least partially cover the first side wall, to at least partially cover the bottom wall, to at least partially cover the second side wall of the container, to at least partially cover the third side wall and to at least partially cover the fourth side wall of the container comprises folding the wrapping sheet due to a contrasting action on the wrapping sheet exerted by the first folding wall, the second folding wall and the folding appendages.

[0049] No folding device acting on the wrapping sheet is interposed between the wrapping sheet loader and the insertion opening of the first wrapping equipment.

[0050] Preferably, placing a wrapping sheet to at least partially cover the first side wall, cover the bottom wall and at least partially cover the second side wall of the container comprises respectively placing the container in the first wrapping equipment with the wrapping sheet in contact with the bottom wall, the second folding wall and the first folding wall of the first wrapping equipment.

[0051] Preferably, the first folding wall extends the entire length, between the bottom wall and the top wall, of a respective side wall of the container.

[0052] Preferably, the second folding wall extends only partially along the extension, between the bottom wall and the top wall, of a respective side wall of the container.

[0053] Preferably, arranging the wrapping sheet to at least partially cover the third side wall and at least partially cover the fourth side wall of the container comprises placing the container in the first wrapping equipment with the wrapping sheet in contact with the folding appendages.

[0054] Preferably, the folding appendages extend only partially along the extension, between the bottom wall and the top wall, of the respective side walls of the container.

[0055] Preferably, the first folding wall, the second folding wall, and the folding appendages comprise respective free ends facing the insertion opening.

[0056] Preferably, the free ends of the first folding wall and the second folding wall are closer to the insertion opening with respect to the free ends of the folding appendages.

[0057] Preferably, the folding appendages extend from the bottom wall of the first wrapping equipment and are connected at the bottom wall.

[0058] Preferably, the folding appendages are fixed with respect to the bottom wall of the first wrapping equipment.

[0059] Preferably, completely wrapping the container with the wrapping sheet comprises arranging the wrapping sheet to completely cover the top wall of the container and making a third surplus of wrapping sheet which extends beyond said top wall.

[0060] Preferably, said third surplus of wrapping sheet extends beyond said top wall in directions directed towards the third side wall of the container and towards the fourth side wall of the container.

[0061] Preferably, making a third surplus of wrapping sheet extending beyond said top wall is performed after inserting the container in the insertion opening of the first wrapping equipment.

[0062] Preferably, making a third surplus of wrapping sheet extending beyond said top wall is performed by moving the first wrapping equipment along the first wrapping path.

[0063] Preferably, making a third surplus of wrapping sheet extending beyond said top wall comprises folding the wrapping sheet to cover a top wall of the container.

[0064] Preferably, folding the wrapping sheet to cover the top wall of the container comprises folding the second portion of the first surplus of wrapping sheet on the top wall of the container.

[0065] Preferably, the first wrapping path comprises an active folding surface at the insertion opening of the first wrapping equipment in the direction between the first folding wall and the second folding wall and configured to fold the wrapping sheet to cover a top wall of the container.

[0066] Preferably, the folding surface extends between the loading station and the extraction station of the first wrapping path.

[0067] Preferably, the folding surface is tangent to the free end of the first folding wall facing the insertion opening.

[0068] Preferably, the folding surface is not active on the insertion opening of the first wrapping equipment when the first wrapping equipment is in the loading station.

[0069] Preferably, the folding surface is not active on the insertion opening of the first wrapping equipment when the first wrapping equipment is in the extraction station.

[0070] Preferably, the folding surface is active on the insertion opening of the first wrapping equipment when the first wrapping equipment is between the loading station and the extraction station.

[0071] Preferably, the folding surface is active on the insertion opening of the first wrapping equipment when the first wrapping equipment moves between the loading station and the extraction station.

[0072] Preferably, it is provided to fold the wrapping sheet to cover the top wall of the container on the second side wall of the container.

[0073] Preferably, folding the wrapping sheet to cover the top wall of the container on the second side wall of the container comprises overlapping a portion of the wrapping sheet on the portion of the wrapping sheet placed to partially cover the second side wall of the container.

[0074] Preferably, the first wrapping path comprises a folding insert which is movable between an inactive and an active position.

[0075] Preferably, said folding insert, when in the active position, operates in said first wrapping equipment at the second folding wall and is configured to fold said wrapping sheet.

[0076] Preferably, said folding insert is located between the loading station and the extraction station of the first wrapping path.

[0077] Preferably, said folding insert, when in the active position, is inserted in said first wrapping equipment through the insertion opening.

[0078] Preferably, when said folding insert is in the active position, said first wrapping equipment is stationary along the first wrapping path in a position between the loading station and the extraction station.

[0079] Preferably, said folding insert, when in the active position, is inserted in said first wrapping equipment until it reaches the free end of the second folding wall facing the insertion opening.

[0080] Alternatively, said folding insert, when in the active position, is inserted in said first wrapping equipment and does not reach the free end of the second folding wall facing the insertion opening.

[0081] Alternatively, said folding insert, when in the active position, is inserted in said first wrapping equipment and passes over the free end of the second folding wall facing the insertion opening.

[0082] Preferably, said folding surface comprises a through opening; said folding insert passes through said through opening in the transition between the inactive position and the active position.

[0083] Preferably, the portion of the wrapping sheet overlapped on the portion of the wrapping sheet to partially cover the second side wall of the container and the portion of the wrapping sheet to partially cover the second side wall of the container are to be sealed together.

[0084] Preferably, a first sealer of the first wrapping path is provided between the loading station and the extraction station.

[0085] Preferably, the first sealer is movable between an inactive position and an active position.

[0086] Preferably, said first sealer, when in the active position, operates in said first wrapping equipment at the second folding wall and is configured to seal overlapping portions of said wrapping sheet.

[0087] Preferably, said first sealer, when in the active position, is inserted in said first wrapping equipment through the insertion opening.

[0088] Preferably, said first sealer, when in the active position, is inserted in said first wrapping equipment until it reaches the free end of the second folding wall facing the insertion opening.

[0089] Preferably, said first sealer passes through said through opening of the folding surface in the passage between the inactive position and the active position.

[0090] Preferably, said first sealer and said folding insert are located in their respective active positions at the same time.

[0091] Preferably, as an alternative or in combination with the first sealer, a second sealer is provided for the first wrapping path between the loading station and the extraction station.

[0092] Preferably, the second sealer is located on the first wrapping equipment at the second folding wall.

[0093] Preferably, said second sealer is movable between an inactive and an active position.

[0094] Preferably, when in the active position, said second sealer is placed between the free end of the second folding wall and the insertion opening and is configured to seal overlapping portions of said wrapping sheet.

[0095] Preferably, it is provided to place the second sealer in the active position after placing the first sealer in the active position.

[0096] Preferably, it is provided to transfer the first wrapping equipment from the loading station to the extraction station of the first wrapping path by rotating the first wrapping equipment in a first angular direction.

[0097] Preferably, a first carousel rotatable around a horizontal rotation axis is provided, said first wrapping equipment being integral with said first carousel and rotating with said first carousel along the first wrapping path.

[0098] Preferably, the first wrapping path follows an arc of a first circular path.

[0099] Preferably, the folding surface extends along an arc of a circle between the loading station and the extraction station of the first wrapping path.

[0100] Preferably, completely wrapping the container with the wrapping sheet comprises transferring the container, with the wrapping sheet partially wrapped thereon, from the first wrapping equipment to a second wrapping equipment and arranging the wrapping sheet to completely cover the third side wall and the fourth side wall of the container.

[0101] Preferably, a second wrapping path is provided, separate from the first wrapping path extending between a respective loading station and a respective extraction station.

[0102] Preferably, the loading station of the second wrapping path is facing the extraction station of the first wrapping path second.

[0103] Preferably, a second wrapping equipment is provided movable along the second wrapping route and comprising an insertion opening.

[0104] Preferably, the insertion opening of the second wrapping equipment has, when in the loading station, the insertion opening facing the insertion opening of first wrapping equipment when arranged in the extraction station.

[0105] Preferably, transferring the container from the first wrapping equipment to the second wrapping equipment comprises extracting the container from the first equipment and inserting the container in the second wrapping equipment.

[0106] Preferably, extracting the container from the first equipment comprises pushing the bottom wall of the container away from the first wrapping equipment.

[0107] Preferably, the bottom wall of the first wrapping equipment is movable between a receiving position and an ejecting position.

[0108] Preferably, in the ejecting position, the bottom wall reaches the insertion opening.

[0109] Preferably, said bottom wall is placed in the ejecting position when the first wrapping equipment is in said extraction station so as to transfer the container to the second wrapping equipment.

[0110] Preferably, the second wrapping equipment comprises a bottom wall opposite the insertion opening.

[0111] Preferably, the second wrapping equipment comprises a pair of containment walls comprising a first containment wall and a second containment wall facing each other and located between the bottom wall and the insertion opening.

[0112] Preferably, the second wrapping equipment comprises folding appendages facing each other, located between the pair of containment walls and between the bottom wall and the insertion opening, and configured to fold the wrapping sheet to cover said further container side walls.

[0113] Preferably, arranging the wrapping sheet completely covering the third side wall and the fourth side wall of the container comprises folding a second portion of the first surplus of wrapping sheet on the third side wall and on the fourth side wall of the container.

[0114] Preferably, folding the second portion of the first surplus of wrapping sheet on the third side wall and on the fourth side wall of the container comprises inserting the container in the second wrapping equipment with the top wall of the container resting against the bottom wall of the second wrapping equipment.

[0115] Preferably, folding the second portion of the first surplus of wrapping sheet on the third side wall and on the fourth side wall of the container comprises placing the container in the second wrapping equipment with the second portion of the first surplus of wrapping sheet in contact with the folding appendages of the second wrapping equipment.

[0116] Preferably, said folding appendages extend only partially along the extension, between the bottom wall and the top wall, of the respective side walls of the container.

[0117] Preferably, the first containment wall, and the folding appendages comprise respective free ends facing the insertion opening.

[0118] Preferably, the free end of the first containment wall is closer to the insertion opening with respect to the free ends of the folding appendages.

[0119] Preferably, the folding appendages extend from the bottom wall of the second wrapping equipment and are connected at the bottom wall.

[0120] Preferably, the folding appendages are fixed with respect to the bottom wall of the second wrapping equipment.

[0121] Preferably, in the ejecting position, the bottom wall of the first wrapping equipment goes beyond the insertion opening of the first wrapping equipment and reaches the insertion opening of the second wrapping equipment.

[0122] Preferably, the first containment wall extends only partially along the extension, between the bottom wall and the top wall, of a respective side wall of the container.

[0123] Preferably, the second containment wall comprises a retention tooth which can be abutted at the insertion opening of the second wrapping equipment.

[0124] Preferably, the second containment wall is movable between an inactive position in which the retention tooth is moved away from the insertion opening and an active position in which the retention tooth is arranged partially blocking the insertion opening.

[0125] Preferably, it is provided to move the second containment wall between the inactive position and the active position when the top wall of the container reaches the bottom wall of the second wrapping equipment.

[0126] Preferably, when the second containment wall is in the active position, the retention tooth is resting against the bottom wall of the container.

[0127] Preferably, extracting the container from the first equipment and inserting the container in the second wrapping equipment comprises arranging the second containment wall in the inactive position.

[0128] Preferably, arranging the wrapping sheet completely covering the third side wall and the fourth side wall of the container further comprises folding the first portion of the first surplus of wrapping sheet on the third side wall and on the fourth side wall of the container.

[0129] Preferably, folding the first portion of the first surplus of wrapping sheet on the third side wall and on the fourth side wall of the container is performed after folding the second portion of the first surplus of wrapping sheet on the third side wall and on the fourth side wall of the container.

[0130] Preferably, said second wrapping path comprises a first pair of folding surfaces active on the second wrapping equipment in the direction directed between the second containment wall and the first containment wall.

[0131] Preferably, said first pair of folding surfaces is located at the loading station of the second wrapping path.

[0132] Preferably, said first pair of folding surfaces is configured to fold the first portion of the first surplus of wrapping sheet on the third side wall and on the fourth side wall of the container.

[0133] Preferably, said first pair of folding surfaces is movable between an inactive position, in which it is moved away from the second wrapping equipment when arranged in the loading station of the second wrapping path, and an active position in which it is inserted in the second wrapping equipment when arranged in the loading station of the second wrapping path.

[0134] Preferably, the first pair of folding surfaces is located in the active position after the container is inserted in the second wrapping equipment.

[0135] Preferably, the first pair of folding surfaces is located in the active position after the second containment wall is located in the active position.

[0136] Preferably, a first folding surface of the first pair of folding surfaces extends between the bottom wall and the insertion opening of the second wrapping equipment.

[0137] Preferably, the first folding surface is counter-shaped to a respective side wall of the container.

[0138] Preferably, the first folding surface is counter-shaped to the third side wall of the container.

[0139] Preferably, a second folding surface of the first pair of folding surfaces extends between the bottom wall and the insertion opening of the second wrapping equipment.

[0140] Preferably, the second folding surface is counter-shaped to a respective side wall of the container.

[0141] Preferably, the first folding surface is counter-shaped to the fourth side wall of the container.

[0142] Preferably, arranging the wrapping sheet completely covering the third side wall and the fourth side wall of the container further comprises folding the second surplus of the wrapping sheet on the third side wall and on the fourth side wall of the container.

[0143] Preferably, folding the second surplus of wrapping sheet on the third side wall and on the fourth side wall of the container is performed after folding the second portion of the first surplus of wrapping sheet on the third side wall and on the fourth side wall of the container.

[0144] Preferably, folding the second surplus of wrapping sheet on the third side wall and the fourth side wall of the container is performed after folding the first portion of the first surplus of wrapping sheet on the third side wall and on the fourth side wall of the container.

[0145] Preferably, said second wrapping path comprises a second pair of folding surfaces active on the second wrapping equipment in the direction directed between the first containment wall and the second containment wall.

[0146] Preferably, said second pair of folding surfaces is located between the loading station and the extraction station of the second wrapping path.

[0147] Preferably, said second pair of folding surfaces is not active on the second wrapping equipment when the second wrapping equipment is in the loading station.

[0148] Preferably, said second pair of folding surfaces is not active on the second wrapping equipment when the second wrapping equipment is in the extraction station.

[0149] Preferably, said second pair of folding surfaces is configured to fold the second surplus of wrapping sheet on the third side wall and on the fourth side wall of the container.

[0150] Preferably, the second surplus of wrapping sheet at least partially overlaps the first portion of the first surplus of wrapping sheet when folded on the third and on the fourth side wall of the container.

[0151] Preferably, it is provided to seal together the first surplus and the second surplus of wrapping sheet overlapping the third side wall and the fourth side wall of the container.

[0152] Preferably, a first pair of sealers is provided for the second wrapping path between the loading station and the extraction station.

[0153] Preferably, the first pair of sealers is active on the second wrapping equipment during its movement between the loading station and the extraction station of the second wrapping path.

[0154] Preferably, the first pair of sealers is located in a predetermined and fixed position along the second wrapping path.

[0155] Preferably, the first pair of sealers is active on the second wrapping equipment from opposite sides facing the folding appendages.

[0156] Preferably, the first pair of sealers is active on the third side wall and on the fourth side wall of the container.

[0157] Preferably, a second pair of sealers is provided for the second wrapping path, located between the first pair of sealers and the extraction station.

[0158] Preferably, the second pair of sealers is active on the second wrapping equipment during its movement between the loading station and the extraction station of the second wrapping path.

[0159] Preferably, the second pair of sealers is located in a predetermined and fixed position along the second wrapping path.

[0160] Preferably, the second pair of sealers is active on the second wrapping equipment from opposite sides facing the folding appendages.

[0161] Preferably, the second pair of sealers is active on the third side wall and on the fourth side wall of the container.

[0162] Preferably, it is provided to heat the side walls of the container wrapped with the wrapping sheet to stretch the wrapping sheet on the container.

[0163] Preferably, heating the side walls of the container is performed at a temperature below the sealing temperature of the wrapping sheet.

[0164] Preferably, heating the side walls of the container is performed after sealing the first surplus and the second surplus of wrapping sheet together.

[0165] Preferably, heating the side walls of the container comprises heating the third and the fourth side wall of the container.

[0166] Preferably, a stretching device is provided that heats the wrapping sheet already wrapped on the container.

[0167] Preferably, the stretching device comprises a heater active on the second pair of folding surfaces.

[0168] Preferably, the second pair of folding surfaces is heated by said heater.

[0169] Preferably, said heater is active on a portion of the second pair of folding surfaces arranged between the second pair of sealers and the extraction station of the second wrapping path.

[0170] Preferably, it is provided to transfer the second wrapping equipment from the loading station to the extraction station of the second path by rotating the second wrapping equipment in a second angular direction.

[0171] Preferably, said second angular direction is concordant with said first angular direction.

[0172] Preferably, a second carousel is provided rotatable about a horizontal rotation axis.

[0173] Preferably, said second wrapping equipment is integral with said second carousel and rotates with said second carousel along a second circular path.

[0174] Preferably, said second wrapping path extends along an arc of said second circular path.

[0175] Preferably, the first carousel and the second carousel rotate in respective angular directions concordant to each other.

[0176] Preferably, the rotation axis of the first carousel and the rotation axis of the second carousel lie on the same reference plane.

[0177] Preferably, a plurality of first wrapping equipment is provided spaced from each other along the first wrapping path.

[0178] Preferably, a plurality of second wrapping equipment is provided spaced from each other along the second wrapping path.

[0179] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become clearer from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment thereof, with reference to the appended drawings and provided by way of indicative and nonlimiting example, in which:

• figure 1 is a schematic front view of a wrapping machine for a container filled with loose products in accordance with the present invention;
• figures 2 and 3 are schematic perspective views of a first detail of the wrapping machine in figure 1 in two different operating conditions;
• figures 4 and 5 are schematic front views of a second part of the wrapping machine of figure 1 in two different operating conditions;
• figure 6 is a schematic perspective view of the detail in figures 4 and 5 in a further operating condition;
• figures 7 and 8 are schematic front views of a third detail of the wrapping machine in figure 1 in two different operating conditions;
• figure 9 is a schematic perspective view of a container filled with loose items without outer wrapper; and
• figures 10 to 14 are schematic perspective views of the container in figure 9 during different wrapping sequences.

[0180] A wrapping machine for a container filled with loose products in accordance with the present invention is shown in figure 1 by reference number 10.

[0181] The wrapping machine 10 is configured to wrap a container 200 containing loose items with a wrapper 100.

[0182] The wrapper 100 may for example be a barrier material with barrier properties against the passage of water vapour and oxygen so as to preserve the properties of the loose items contained in the container 200. The barrier material may, for example, be a barrier paper with a thickness of a few microns, e.g., comprised between 40 and 70 microns, made in the form of a sheet that is wrapped around the container 200.

[0183] As shown in Figure 9, the container 200 to be wrapped comprises a bottom wall 201 and a top wall 202 opposite the bottom wall 201. The top wall 202 defines a cover for the container 200 to close a top opening (not illustrated) configured for the insertion and abstraction of loose items from the container 200.

[0184] The container 200 further comprises a first side wall 203, a second side wall 204, a third side wall 205 and a fourth side wall 206 which extend between the bottom wall 201 and the top wall 202.

[0185] The first side wall 203 is opposite the second side wall 204 and the third side wall 205 is opposite the fourth side wall 206.

[0186] The side walls 203, 204, 205, 206 are not perfectly flat but comprise a convexity located between the bottom wall 201 and the top wall 202.

[0187] Chamfered edges are provided between the side walls 203, 204, 205, 206, i.e., the side walls 203, 204, 205, 206 are not connected to each other by sharp edges but by chamfers.

[0188] In the illustrated embodiment of the container 200, the bottom wall 201 has a smaller extension with respect to the top wall 202.

[0189] The container 200 is filled with loose items preferably food products, such as candies, sugared almonds, chewing gum in tablet form, chocolates and the like, and is closed by the top wall 202.

[0190] With reference to figure 1, the wrapping machine 10 comprises a first carousel 11 and a second carousel 12.

[0191] The first carousel 11 is rotatable along a first angular direction A about a rotation axis X1, preferably horizontal.

[0192] The second carousel 12 is rotatable along a second angular direction B about a rotation axis X2, preferably horizontal.

[0193] The rotation axis X1 of the first carousel 11 and the rotation axis X2 of the second carousel 12 are parallel to each other and lie on the same horizontal reference plane R1. The first angular direction A and the second angular direction B are mutually concordant.

[0194] The first carousel 11 comprises a central portion 13 traversed by a shaft (not shown) which defines the rotation axis X1 and which is rotated by a motor (not shown). The first carousel 11 further comprises a peripheral portion 14 connected to the central portion 13. The peripheral portion 14 comprises a plurality of arms 15 connected at a first end to the central portion 13 and at a second end, opposite the first end, to a respective first wrapping equipment 16.

[0195] Similarly, the second carousel 12 comprises a central portion 17 traversed by a shaft (not shown) which defines the rotation axis X2 and which is rotated by a motor (not shown). The second carousel 12 further comprises a peripheral portion 18 connected to the central portion 17. The peripheral portion 18 comprises a plurality of arms 19 connected at a first end to the central portion 17 and at a second end, opposite the first end, to a respective second wrapping equipment 20.

[0196] Each first wrapping equipment 16 rotates about the rotation axis X1 of the first carousel 11 along a first circular path. In particular, each first wrapping equipment 16 rotates between a loading station CS1 and an extraction station ES1 of a first wrapping path WP1. Each first wrapping equipment 16 further rotates, beyond the first wrapping path WP1, between the extraction station ES1 and the loading station CS1, completing the circular path. The first wrapping path WP1 extends along an arc of the first circular path.

[0197] In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the first wrapping path WP1 is comprised between 45° and 180°, more preferably comprised between 90° and 180°, preferably about 90°.

[0198] As shown schematically in figure 1, the loading station CS1 of the first wrapping path WP1 is traversed by a plane R2 (the trace of which is illustrated in figure 1) perpendicular to the reference plane R1 and containing the rotation axis X1. The loading station CS1 of the first wrapping path WP1 is located above the reference plane R1.

[0199] The extraction station ES1 of the first wrapping path WP1 is located at the reference plane R1 and traversed by said reference plane R1.

[0200] Each second wrapping equipment 20 rotates about the rotation axis X2 of the second carousel 12 along a second circular path. In particular, each second wrapping equipment 20 rotates between a loading station CS2 and an extraction station ES2 of a second wrapping path WP2. Each second wrapping equipment 20 also rotates, beyond the second wrapping path WP2, between the extraction station ES2 and the loading station CS2, completing the circular path. The second wrapping path WP2 extends along an arc of the first circular path.

[0201] In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the second wrapping path WP2 is comprised between 90° and 270°, more preferably comprised between 180° and 270°, preferably about 270°.

[0202] As shown schematically in figure 1, the loading station CS2 of the second wrapping path WP2 is located at the reference plane R1 and passed through by said reference plane R1.

[0203] The extraction station ES2 of the second wrapping path WP2 is passed through by a plane R3 (the trace of which is shown in figure 1) perpendicular to the reference plane R1 and containing the rotation axis X2. The extraction station ES2 of the second wrapping path WP2 is located below the reference plane R1.

[0204] The first wrapping equipments 16 are identical to each other. What will be described below in relation to a first wrapping equipment 16 is valid for all the first wrapping equipments 16.

[0205] As better illustrated in figure 2, the first wrapping equipment 16 comprises an insertion opening 21 through which a container 200 is inserted. Opposite the insertion opening 21 a bottom wall 22 is provided for the first wrapping equipment 16.

[0206] A first folding wall 23 and a second folding wall 24 extend laterally to the bottom wall 22 in the direction of the insertion opening 21. The first folding wall 23 faces the second folding wall 24 along the first angular direction A and is separated from the second folding wall 24 by the bottom wall 22. The first folding wall 23 extends along the full distance which separates the bottom wall 22 from the insertion opening 21. The first folding wall 23 is counter-shaped to the first side wall 203 of container 200. The second folding wall 24 extends from the bottom wall 22 towards the insertion opening 21 without, however, reaching it. The second folding wall 24 is counter-shaped to a single portion of the second side wall 204 of the container 200. The first folding wall 23 precedes the second folding wall 24 along the first wrapping path WP1. The first folding wall 23 and the second folding wall 24 are integral with the central portion 13 of the first carousel 11 and are not movable with respect to the central portion 13 of the first carousel 11.

[0207] The first wrapping equipment 16 also comprises folding appendages 25 facing each other in a direction parallel to the rotation axis X1 of the first carousel 11. The folding appendages 25 comprise, in the preferred embodiment of the invention, a first folding appendage 25a and a second folding appendage 25b. The folding appendages 25 are placed between the bottom wall 22 and the insertion opening 21 and extend between the first folding wall 23 and the second folding wall 24. The folding appendages 25 extend from the bottom wall 22 towards the insertion opening 21 without however reaching it. The folding appendages 25 are counter-shaped to a single portion of the third side wall 205 and of the fourth side wall 206 of the container 200, respectively. The folding appendages 25 are integral with the bottom wall 22 and are connected to the bottom wall 22.

[0208] The first folding wall 23, the second folding wall 24, and the folding appendages 25 comprise respective free ends 23a, 24a, 25c facing the insertion opening 21. The free ends 23a, 24a of the first folding wall 23 and the second folding wall 24 are closer to the insertion opening 21 with respect to the free ends 25c of the folding appendages 25. The free end 24a of the second folding wall 24 is farther from the insertion opening 21 with respect to the free end 23a of the first folding wall 23.

[0209] The folding appendages 25 are spaced, along the first angular direction A, from the first folding wall 23 and the second folding wall 24 so as to define respective passage openings 26, 27 for the first wrapping equipment 16. In particular, two passage openings 26 are defined between the folding appendages 25 and the first folding wall 23, and two passage openings 27 are defined between the folding appendages 25 and the second folding wall 24.

[0210] The back wall 22 of the first wrapping equipment 16 is movable with respect to the central portion 13 of the first carousel 11 between a receiving position and an ejecting position. In the receiving position, the bottom wall 22 is located inside the first wrapping equipment 16 (as illustrated in figure 2). In the ejecting position (as illustrated in figure 5), the bottom wall 22 reaches and goes beyond the insertion opening 21, following a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis X1. The folding appendages 25 move together with the bottom wall 22 between the receiving position and the ejecting position.

[0211] The wrapping machine 10 comprises a folding surface 28 along the first wrapping path WP1. The folding surface 28 extends, along the first wrapping path WP1, following the loading station CS1 and before the extraction station ES1. The folding surface 28 does not extend at the loading station CS1 and at the extraction station ES1. The folding surface 28 extends along an arched direction and is tangent to the free end 24a of the first folding wall 24 during the rotation of the first wrapping equipment 16 between the loading station CS1 and the extraction station ES1.

[0212] The wrapping machine 10 further comprises, along the first wrapping path WP1, a folding insert 29 insertable inside the first wrapping equipment 16 between the second folding wall 24 and the first folding wall 23. The folding insert 29 can be inserted inside the first wrapping equipment 16 in substantial alignment with the second folding wall 24 between the free end 24a of the second folding wall 24 and the insertion opening 21. The folding insert 29 is movable between an inactive position, away from the first wrapping equipment 16 (figure 1) and an active position, inserted in the first wrapping equipment 16 (figure 2). The folding insert 29 is located between the loading station CS1 and the extraction station ES1 of the first wrapping path WP1. To allow the folding insert 29 to be inserted inside the first wrapping equipment 16, the folding surface 28 comprises a through opening 30 (figure 3) sized to allow the folding insert 29 to go beyond the folding surface 28 in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis X1.

[0213] The wrapping machine 10 further comprises, along the first wrapping path WP1, a first sealer 31 (figure 3) which can be inserted inside the first wrapping equipment 16 between the second folding wall 24 and the first folding wall 23. The first sealer 31 is insertable inside the first wrapping equipment 16 in substantial alignment with the second folding wall 24 between the free end 24a of the second folding wall 24 and the insertion opening 21. The first sealer 31 is movable between an inactive position, away from the first wrapping equipment 16 (figure 1) and an active position, inserted in the first wrapping equipment 16. The first sealer 31 is located between the loading station CS1 and the extraction station ES1 of the first wrapping path WP1 at the folding insert 29. The first sealer 31 is contained in the folding insert 29 and passes through the folding surface 28 through the through opening 30. The first sealer 31 moves integral with the folding insert 29 and is located in the active position when the folding insert 29 is in the active position and in the inactive position when the folding insert 29 is in the inactive position.

[0214] The wrapping machine 10 also comprises, along the first wrapping path WP1, a second sealer 32 (figure 2). The second sealer 32 can be provided as an alternative or in combination with the first sealer 31. In the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, the second sealer 32 is provided in combination with the first sealer 31. The second sealer 32 is mounted directly on the first wrapping equipment 16 at the second folding wall 24. The second sealer 32 is movable between an inactive position in which it is moved in the direction opposite the first angular direction A from the second folding wall 24 and an active position in which it is located between the free end 24a of the second folding wall 24 and the insertion opening 21. The second sealer 32 is located in the active position during the rotation of the first wrapping equipment 16 between the folding insert 29 and the extraction station ES1.

[0215] The wrapping machine 10 also comprises, along the first wrapping path WP1, a pusher 33 placed above the loading station CS1. The function of the pusher 33 is to push a container 200, accompanying it, inside a first wrapping equipment 16 when the latter is in the loading station CS1.

[0216] Between the pusher 33 and a first wrapping equipment 16 located in the loading station CS1, a wrapping sheet feeder 52 is provided (depicted in figure 2) configured to arrange a wrapping sheet 100 above the insertion opening 21 of the first wrapping equipment 16.

[0217] The second wrapping equipments 20 are identical. What follows in relation to a second wrapping equipment 20 applies to all the second wrapping equipments 20.

[0218] As better illustrated in figures 4 to 6, the second wrapping equipment 20 comprises an insertion opening 34 through which a container 200 is inserted. A bottom wall 35 is provided on the opposite side with respect to the insertion opening 34.

[0219] A first containment wall 36 and a second containment wall 37 extend to the side of the bottom wall 35, in the direction of the insertion opening 34. The first containment wall 36 faces the second containment wall 37 along the second angular direction B and is separated from the second containment wall 37 by the bottom wall 35. The second containment wall 37 extends along the full distance separating the bottom wall 35 from the insertion opening 34. The second containment wall 37 is counter-shaped to the first side wall 203 of the container 200. The first containment wall 36 extends from the bottom wall 35 towards the insertion opening 34 without however reaching it. The first containment wall 36 is counter-shaped to a single portion of the second side wall 204 of the container 200. The second containment wall 37 follows the first containment wall 36 along the second wrapping path WP2. The first containment wall 36 is integral with the central portion 17 of the second carousel 12 and is not movable with respect to the central portion 17 of the second carousel 12. The second containment wall 37 comprises a retention tooth 38. The second containment wall 37 is movable with respect to the first containment wall 36. In particular, the second containment wall 37 is movable between an inactive position, illustrated in figure 5, in which the retention tooth 38 is moved away from the insertion opening 34 and an active position (figure 6) in which the retention tooth 38 is located at the insertion opening 34.

[0220] The second wrapping equipment 20 also comprises folding appendages 39 facing each other in a direction parallel to the rotation axis X2 of the second carousel 12. The folding appendages 25 comprise, in the preferred embodiment of the invention, a first folding appendage 39a and a second folding appendage (not illustrated in the accompanying figures). The folding appendages 39 are located between the bottom wall 35 and the insertion opening 34 and extend between the first containment wall 36 and the second containment wall 37. The folding appendages 39 extend from the bottom wall 35 towards the insertion opening 34 without however reaching it. The folding appendages 39 are counter-shaped to a single portion of the third side wall 205 and of the fourth side wall 206 of the container 200, respectively. The folding appendages 39 are integral with the bottom wall 35 and are connected to the bottom wall 35.

[0221] The first containment wall 36, and folding appendages 39 comprise respective free ends 36a, 39c (figure 4) facing the insertion opening 34. The free end 36a of the first containment wall 36 is closer to the insertion opening 34 with respect to the free ends 39c of the folding appendages 39. The second containment wall 37 extends with the retention tooth 38 beyond the insertion opening 34.

[0222] The bottom wall 35 of the second wrapping equipment 20 may, in some embodiments, be movable with respect to the central portion 17 of the second carousel 12 between a receiving position and an ejecting position. In the receiving position, the bottom wall 35 is placed inside the second wrapping equipment 20. In the ejecting position, the bottom wall 35 reaches and goes beyond the insertion opening 34, following a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis X2. The folding appendages 39 move, when the bottom wall 35 is movable, together with the bottom wall 35 between the receiving position and the ejecting position.

[0223] The wrapping machine 10 comprises, along the second wrapping path WP2, a first pair of folding surfaces 40. The first pair of folding surfaces 40 is located at the loading station CS2 of the second wrapping path WP2 and precedes, along the second angular direction B, the second wrapping equipment 20 when in the loading station CS2. The first pair of folding surfaces 40 extends between the bottom wall 35 and the insertion opening 34 of the second wrapping equipment 20. The first pair of folding surfaces 40 is movable between an inactive position (figure 5) and an active position (figure 6). In the inactive position, the first pair of folding surfaces 40 is moved away from the second wrapping equipment 20 and in the active position the first pair of folding surfaces 40 is inserted in the second wrapping equipment 20. When the first pair of folding surfaces 40 is inserted in the second wrapping equipment 20, the first pair of folding surfaces 40 is arranged between the second containment wall 37 and the first containment wall 36. The passage between the inactive position and the active position occurs with the first pair of folding surfaces 40 progressively entering the second wrapping equipment 20 from the second containment wall 37 towards the first containment wall 36. The extension in the direction from the second containment wall 37 towards the first containment wall 36 of the first pair of folding surfaces 40 is at least equal to half the distance separating the second containment wall 37 from the first containment wall 36. In the active position, the first pair of folding surfaces 40 can at least partially overlap the folding appendages 39 (figure 6). In the preferred embodiment of the invention, a first folding surface of the first pair of folding surfaces 40 is counter-shaped to the third side wall 205 of the container 200. A second folding surface of the first pair of folding surfaces 40 is counter-shaped to the fourth side wall 206 of the container 200.

[0224] The wrapping machine 10 comprises, along the second wrapping path WP2, a second pair of folding surfaces 41. The second pair of folding surfaces 41 extends, along the second wrapping path WP2, after the loading station CS2 and before the extraction station ES2. The second pair of folding surfaces 41 does not extend at the loading station CS2 and at the extraction station ES2. The second pair of folding surfaces 41 extends along an arched direction along the second wrapping path WP2. The second pair of folding surfaces 41 extends perpendicular to the second containment wall 37 and to the first containment wall 36. The second pair of folding surfaces 41 extends parallel to the folding appendages 39. The distance in the direction parallel to the rotation axis X2 separating the folding surfaces of the second pair of folding surfaces 41 is at least equal to, preferably slightly greater than, the distance in the same direction separating the folding appendages 39 from each other.

[0225] The wrapping machine 10 also comprises, along the second wrapping path WP2, a first pair of sealers 42. The first pair of sealers 42 is located between the loading station CS2 and the extraction station ES2. The first pair of sealers 42 is movable between an active position and an inactive position. The first pair of sealers 42 is, in the active position, essentially coplanar to the second pair of folding surfaces 41. The first pair of sealers 42 is, in the active position, located in openings of the second pair of folding surfaces 41 so that it can reach and act on the second wrapping equipment 20. In the inactive position, the first pair of sealers 42 does not block access to the openings of the second pair of folding surfaces 41.

[0226] The first pair of sealers 42, in the active position, acts on the second wrapping equipment 20 from opposite sides facing the folding appendages 39. The first pair of sealers 42, in the active position, is parallel to the folding appendages 39. The first pair of sealers 42, in the active position, acts on the third side wall 205 and on the fourth side wall 206 of the container 200.

[0227] The wrapping machine 10 also comprises, along the second wrapping path WP2, a second pair of sealers 43 (illustrated in figure 1). The second pair of sealers 43 is located between the loading station CS2 and the extraction station ES2. The second pair of sealers 43 is located between the first pair of sealers 42 and the extraction station ES2. The second pair of sealers 43 is movable between an active position and an inactive position. The second pair of sealers 43, in the active position, is essentially coplanar to the second pair of folding surfaces 41. The second pair of sealers 43, in the active position, is located in the openings of the second pair of folding surfaces 41 so that it can reach and act on the second wrapping equipment 20. In the inactive position, the second pair of sealers 43 does not block access to the openings of the second pair of folding surfaces 41.

[0228] The second pair of sealers 43, in the active position, acts on the second wrapping equipment 20 on opposite sides facing the folding appendages 39. The second pair of sealers 43, in the active position, is parallel to the folding appendages 39. The second pair of sealers 43, in the active position, acts on the third side wall 205 and on the fourth side wall 206 of the container 200. The second pair of sealers 43 is essentially identical to the first pair of sealers 42.

[0229] The wrapping machine 10 further comprises, along the second wrapping path WP2, a stretching device 46. The stretching device 46 is located between the second pair of sealers 43 and the extraction station ES2. The stretching device 46 is preferably integrated in the second pair of folding surfaces 41. The stretching device 46 is preferably integrated in the second pair of folding surfaces 41 in a portion of the second pair of folding surfaces 41 extending between the second pair of sealers 43 and the extraction station ES2. The stretching device 46 comprises a heater 47, preferably of the electric type. The second pair of folding surfaces 41 is connected to the heater 47 to increase the surface temperature thereof. Such a surface temperature is comprised between 40°C and 100 °C, preferably comprised between 40°C and 80°C. Figure 1 only schematically shows the stretching device 46 and the heater 47.

[0230] The wrapping machine 10 comprises, at the extraction station ES2, an extractor 44 (better illustrated in figures 7 and 8). The extractor 44 is movable towards (figure 7) and away from (figure 8) the second wrapping equipment 29 when the latter is in the extraction station ES2. The extractor 44 comprises a base wall 45 configured to support the bottom wall 201 of the container 200.

[0231] The wrapping machine 10 can be used in a method for wrapping a container containing loose products.

[0232] Such a method includes feeding a sequence of containers 200 at the pusher 33 and feeding a wrapping sheet 100 below the pusher 33. As illustrated in figure 1, the wrapping sheet 100 is placed substantially perpendicular to an actuating direction of the pusher 33.

[0233] The pusher 33 contacts the top wall 202 of a container 200 and pushes the container 200, through the insertion opening 21, inside a first wrapping equipment 16 arranged in the loading station CS1 of the first wrapping path WP1.

[0234] Entering the first wrapping equipment 16, the container 200 intercepts the wrapping sheet 100 with the bottom wall 201 and drags it inside the first wrapping equipment 16, as illustrated in figure 2.

[0235] During the insertion of the container 200 in the first wrapping equipment 16, the first folding wall 23 and the second folding wall 24 of the first wrapping equipment 16 intercept and fold the wrapping sheet 100 such that the wrapping sheet 100 is arranged overlapping and thus covering the bottom wall 201 and the first side wall 203 of the container 200 and partially covering the second side wall 204 of the container 200.

[0236] In the loading station CS1 of the first wrapping equipment WP1, the insertion opening 21 is located above the bottom wall 22 of the first wrapping equipment 16.

[0237] During the insertion into the first wrapping equipment 16, the container 200 is oriented with the top wall 202 located above the bottom wall 201.

[0238] The top wall 202 and the bottom wall 201 of the container 200 are arranged parallel to the reference plane R1.

[0239] When the bottom wall 202 of the container 200 reaches the bottom wall 22 of the first wrapping equipment 16, the folding appendages 25 intercept the wrapping sheet 100 and fold it, placing it to partially cover the third side wall 205 and the fourth side wall 206 of the container 200 (figure 3).

[0240] Figure 10 illustrates how the wrapping sheet 100 partially wraps around the container 200 when the container 200 is inserted in the first wrapping equipment 16 and when the latter is in the loading station CS1 of the first wrapping path WP1.

[0241] As can be seen in figure 10, the wrapping sheet 100 covering the first side wall 203 of the container 200 is arranged with a first surplus 101 of wrapping sheet extending beyond the first side wall 203. Said first surplus 101 of wrapping sheet comprises a first portion 101a protruding beyond the first side wall 203 in a first direction extending away from the third side wall 205 and in a second direction extending away from the fourth side wall 206 of the container 200. In the example illustrated, the first portion 101 a of the first surplus 101 of wrapping sheet is substantially perpendicular to the third side wall 205 and to the fourth side wall 206 of the container 200. The first surplus 101 of wrapping sheet comprises a second portion 101b extending beyond the first side wall 203 in a direction away from the top wall 202 of the container 200. In the example shown, the second portion 101b of the first surplus 101 of wrapping sheet is essentially perpendicular to the top wall 202 of the container 200.

[0242] The wrapping sheet 100 partially covering the second side wall 204 of the container 200 is arranged with a second surplus 102 of wrapping sheet extending beyond the second side wall 204 in a first direction extending away from the third side wall 205 and in a second direction extending away from the fourth side wall 206 of the container 200. In the example illustrated, the second surplus 102 of wrapping sheet is essentially perpendicular to the third side wall 205 and to the fourth side wall 206 of the container 200.

[0243] The first surplus 101 and the second surplus 102 of wrapping sheet pass through the passage openings 26, 27 of the first wrapping equipment 16.

[0244] After the container 200 is inserted in the first wrapping equipment 16, the first equipment 16 is moved along the first wrapping path WP1 towards the extraction station ES1.

[0245] This is performed by rotating the first carousel 12 about the rotation axis X1. Such a rotation is preferably performed step-by-step, i.e., it is not a rotation that occurs with continuity of displacement over time but one that occurs with continuous rotations of displacement interspersed with stops in the rotation.

[0246] The rotation of the first carousel 11 brings the first wrapping equipment 16 at the folding surface 28. The folding surface 28 intercepts the second portion 101b of the first surplus 101 and folds it to cover the top wall 202 of the container 200, making a third surplus 103 of wrapping sheet that extends beyond the top wall 202 away from the second side wall 204 of the container 200, arranging the wrapping sheet 100 around the container as illustrated in figure 11. In the example illustrated, the third surplus 103 of wrapping sheet is essentially perpendicular to the second side wall 204 of the container 200.

[0247] The rotation of the first carousel 11 subsequently brings the first wrapping equipment 16 at the folding insert 29 (which is in the inactive position). The rotation of the first carousel 11 is interrupted. The folding insert 29 is brought to the active position. The third surplus 103 of wrapping sheet is intercepted by the folding insert 29 and folded on the second side wall 204 of the container. The third surplus 103 of wrapping sheet is arranged overlapping the portion of the wrapping sheet placed partially covering the second side wall 204 of the container 200.

[0248] In an alternative embodiment not illustrated, when the first carousel 11 brings the first wrapping equipment 16 at the folding insert 29, one end of the portion of the wrapping sheet placed partially covering the second side wall 204 of the container 200 is lifted and is arranged substantially perpendicular to the second side wall 204 of the container. In this embodiment, when the folding insert 29 is brought in the active position and the third surplus 103 of wrapping sheet is folded on the second side wall 204 of the container, one end of the third surplus 103 of wrapping sheet is lifted and arranged substantially perpendicular to the second side wall 204 of the container. The lifted end of the portion of the wrapping sheet placed partially covering the second side wall 204 and the lifted end of the third surplus 103 are placed in mutual contact.

[0249] In such an alternative embodiment not illustrated, the lifting of the end of the portion of the wrapping sheet placed partially covering the second side wall 204 of the container 200 can, for example, be performed by the folding insert 29 when it reaches the active position. In this position, the folding insert 29 intercepts the end of the portion of the wrapping sheet placed partially covering the second side wall 204 of the container 200 and pushes it towards the base wall 22 of the first wrapping equipment 16. The end of the portion of the wrapping sheet placed partially covering the second side wall 204 and pushed by the folding insert 29 is folded by the free end 24a of the second folding wall 24. The folding insert 29 also overlaps the end of the third surplus 103 at the end of the portion of the wrapping sheet placed partially covering the second side wall 204. When the folding insert 29 returns to the inactive position, the two overlapping ends of wrapping sheet are arranged (due to spring back) overlapping each other and substantially perpendicular to the second side wall 204 of the container 200. Figure 12 illustrates, in the preferred embodiment, the wrapping sheet 100 as arranged around the container 200 following the folding of the third surplus 103 of wrapping sheet.

[0250] During the operations described above, the top wall 202 of the container 200 always remains at least partially above the bottom wall 201 of the container 200.

[0251] Thereafter, and with the first wrapping equipment 16 in the position reached, the first sealer 31 seals together the third surplus 103 of wrapping sheet overlapping the portion of wrapping sheet partially covering the second side wall 204 of the container 200 and the portion of wrapping sheet partially covering the second side wall 202 of the container 200.

[0252] Alternatively or in combination, the second sealer 32 is brought in the active position by also providing to seal together the third surplus 103 of wrapping sheet overlapping the portion of wrapping sheet partially covering the second side wall 204 of the container 200 and the portion of wrapping sheet partially covering the second side wall 202 of the container 200.

[0253] Following the sealing, the wrapping sheet 100 completely surrounds the bottom wall 201, the first side wall 203, the second side wall 204 and the top wall 202 of the container 200 and is sealed thereto, minimising or eliminating any accidental movement of the top wall 202.

[0254] Subsequently, the first wrapping equipment 16 is again set in motion to reach the extraction station ES1 of the first wrapping path WP1.

[0255] The second sealer 32, when provided, can remain in the active position during the movement of the first wrapping equipment 16 to the extraction station ES1.

[0256] When the first wrapping equipment 16 reaches the extraction station ES1, the rotation of the first carousel 11 is stopped. The second carousel 12 is also in a standstill condition with a second wrapping equipment 20 at the loading station CS2 of the second wrapping path WP2, as illustrated in figure 4.

[0257] In this condition, the container 200 is transferred from the first wrapping equipment 16 to the second wrapping equipment 20.

[0258] The container 200 is removed from the first wrapping equipment by bringing the bottom wall 22 of the first wrapping equipment 16 in the ejecting position as illustrated in figure 5.

[0259] The container 200 is inserted in the second wrapping equipment 20 with the top wall 202 (wrapped by the wrapping sheet 100) resting against the bottom wall 35 of the second wrapping equipment 20. During the insertion of the container 200 in the second wrapping equipment 20, the second containment wall 37 is in the inactive position so that the retention tooth 38 does not block the passage of the container 200 through the insertion opening 34 of the second wrapping equipment 20 (figure 5).

[0260] During the insertion of the container 200 in the second wrapping equipment 20, the folding appendages 39 intercept the second portion 101b of the first surplus 101 of wrapping sheet and fold it by arranging it to at least partially cover the third side wall 205 and the fourth side wall 206 of the container 200.

[0261] In certain embodiments of the invention, the second portion 101b of the first surplus 101 of wrapping sheet folded by the folding appendages 39 are arranged partially overlapping the portions of wrapping sheet already arranged to partially cover (by the folding appendages 25 of the first wrapping equipment 16) the third side wall 205 and the fourth side wall 206 of the container 200.

[0262] Figure 13 illustrates how the wrapping sheet 100 is partially wrapped around the container 200 when the container 200 is inserted in the second wrapping equipment 20 and when the latter is in the loading station CS2 of the second wrapping path WP2.

[0263] Following the insertion of the container 200 in the second wrapping equipment 20, the second containment wall 37 is placed in the active position by resting the retention tooth 38 in abutment on the bottom wall 201 of the container 200. This operation is carried out with the second carousel 12 stopped.

[0264] Subsequently, or at the same time as placing the second containment wall 37 in the active position, the first pair of folding surfaces 40 is switched between the inactive position and the active position, as illustrated in figure 6. The first pair of folding walls 40 folds the first portion 101a of the first surplus 101 of wrapping sheet on the third side wall 205 and on the fourth side wall 206 of the container 200. The first portion 101a of the first surplus 101 of wrapping sheet folded on the third side wall 205 and on the fourth side wall 206 of the container 200 overlaps at least partially with the second portion 101b of the first surplus 101 of wrapping sheet folded by the folding appendages 39 of the second wrapping equipment 20 and the portion of wrapping sheet folded by the folding appendages 25 of the first wrapping equipment 16.

[0265] This operation is carried out with the second carousel 12 stopped.

[0266] If it is detected (e.g., by sensors not illustrated) that the container 200 having reached the extraction station ES1 of the first wrapping path WP1 has defects, inaccuracies or is otherwise deemed to be incorrectly partially wrapped, it is envisaged to not transfer the container 200 from the first wrapping equipment 16 to the second wrapping equipment 20. The first wrapping equipment 20 remains in the extraction station ES1, leaving the bottom wall 22 of the first wrapping equipment 16 in the receiving position.

[0267] The rotation of the first carousel 11, previously stopped, is reactivated by bringing the first wrapping equipment 16 and the container 200 therewith beyond the extraction station ES1 of the first wrapping path WP1. When the rotation of the first carousel 11 brings the first wrapping equipment 16 beyond the extraction station ES1, the container 200 exits by gravity from the first wrapping equipment 16 and is ejected from the wrapping machine 10.

[0268] When the container 200 is transferred to the second wrapping equipment 20, the second wrapping equipment 20 with the container 200 inserted is moved along the second wrapping path WP2 towards the extraction station ES2.

[0269] At the same time, the first wrapping equipment 16 is brought towards the loading station CS1 of the first wrapping path WP1.

[0270] The rotation of the second carousel 12 brings the second wrapping equipment 20 to the second pair of folding surfaces 41. The second pair of folding surfaces 41 intercepts the second surplus 102 (and the third surplus 103 therewith already sealed to the second surplus 102) and folds it to cover the third side wall 205 and the fourth side wall 206 of the container 200, arranging the wrapping sheet 100 to completely cover the container 200 as illustrated in figure 14. The second surplus 102 of wrapping sheet folded on the third side wall 205 and on the fourth side wall 206 of the container 200 at least partially overlaps the first portion 101a of the first surplus 101 of wrapping sheet folded on the third side wall 205 and on the fourth side wall 206 of the container 200.

[0271] Next, the second wrapping equipment 20 reaches the first pair of sealers 42 which seal together the first portion 101a of the first surplus 101 of wrapping sheet overlapped on the second surplus 102 of wrapping sheet.

[0272] Subsequently, the second wrapping equipment 20 reaches the second pair of sealers 43, which completes the sealing (if not fully completed by the first pair of sealers 42) therebetween of the first portion 101a of the first surplus 101 of wrapping sheet overlapping the second surplus 102 of wrapping sheet.

[0273] Subsequently, the second wrapping equipment 20 reaches the stretching device 46 which heats the already wrapped wrapping sheet 100 to a temperature lower than the temperature required to seal portions of the wrapping sheet 100 together. The stretching device 46, by heating the wrapping sheet 100 already wrapped on the container 200, eliminates any small creases by stretching the wrapping sheet 100. Such a stretching effect is preferably performed by the surfaces of the second pair of folding surfaces 41 heated by the heater 47 and in sliding contact against the side walls of the container 200.

[0274] The second wrapping equipment 20 is then moved along the second wrapping path WP2 to the extraction station ES2 by rotating the second carousel 12.

[0275] When the second wrapping equipment 20 reaches the extraction station ES2, the rotation of the second carousel 12 is stopped. In this condition, the top wall 202 of the container 200 is located above the bottom wall 201 of the container 200.

[0276] The extractor 44 is then brought closer to the second wrapping equipment 20 until the base wall 45 of the extractor contacts the bottom wall 202 of the container 200, as illustrated in figure 7. At this point, the second containment wall 37 is located in the inactive position to release the bottom wall 202 of the container 200 from the constraint with the retention tooth 38.

[0277] The container 200, by gravity, is supported by the extractor 44 alone which, moving away from the second wrapping equipment 20, extracts the container 200 from the insertion opening 34 (figure 8).

[0278] The fully wrapped container 200 can then be transferred away from the wrapping machine 10.

[0279] The second carousel 12 is rotated again, bringing the second wrapping equipment 12 back to the loading station CS2 of the second transport path WP2.

[0280] If it is detected (e.g., by sensors not illustrated) that the container which has reached the extraction station ES2 has defects, inaccuracies or is otherwise deemed to be incorrectly wrapped, it is envisaged not to activate the extractor 44. The second wrapping equipment 20 remains in the extraction station ES2 without any operations being carried out on the container 200 housed therein.

[0281] The rotation of the second carousel 12, previously stopped, is reactivated by bringing the second wrapping equipment 20 and the container 200 therewith beyond the extraction station ES2. When the rotation of the second carousel 12 is stopped again, the container 200 is ejected from the second wrapping equipment 20. In this regard, the second containment wall 37 is located in the inactive position to release the bottom wall 202 of the container 200 from the constraint with the retention tooth 38. The container 200 exits by gravity from the second wrapping equipment 20 and is moved away from the wrapping machine 10.

[0282] The rotation of the first carousel 11 and the second carousel 12 are synchronised with each other so that when the first carousel 11 is set in rotation, the second carousel 12 is also set in rotation at the same angular speed and such that when the first carousel 11 is stopped, the second carousel 12 is also stopped.

[0283] In particular, when a first wrapping equipment 16 is in the loading station CS1 of the first wrapping path WP1, a further first wrapping equipment 16 is in the extraction station ES1 of the first wrapping path WP1. Between the first wrapping equipment 16 in the loading station CS1 and the further first wrapping equipment 16 in the extraction station ES1, a first wrapping equipment 16 placed along the first carousel 11 and along the first wrapping path WP1 is arranged at the further folding insert 29.

[0284] When a first wrapping equipment 16 is in the loading station CS1 of the first wrapping path WP1, a second wrapping equipment 20 is in the loading station CS2 of the second wrapping path WP2. When a second wrapping equipment 20 is in the loading station CS2 of the second wrapping path WP2, a further second wrapping equipment 20 is in the extraction station ES2 of the second wrapping path WP2. Between the second wrapping equipment 20 in the loading station CS2 and the further second wrapping equipment 20 in the extraction station ES2, five further second wrapping equipments 20 are arranged along the second carousel 12 and along the second wrapping path WP2.

[0285] Two first wrapping equipments 16 placed on the first carousel 11 and consecutive to each other are equidistant from each other by an angular distance equal to the angular distance dividing two second equipments 20 of the second carousel 12 from each other.

[0286] Two first wrapping equipments 16 located on the first carousel 11 and consecutive to each other are equidistant from each other by an angular distance comprised between 5° and 45°, preferably comprised between 11.25° and 22.5°.

Claims

1. Wrapping machine (10) for a container (200) filled with loose products comprising:

a first wrapping path (WP1) extending between a respective loading station (CS1) and a respective extraction station (ES1);

a first wrapping equipment (16) movable along the first wrapping path (WP1) and comprising an insertion opening (21);

a feeder (52) of wrapping sheets (100) configured to place, in sequence, wrapping sheets (100) at the loading station (CS1);

a pusher (33) located at the loading station (CS1) and configured to push a container (200) into the first wrapping equipment (16) while intercepting a wrapping sheet (100);

wherein said first wrapping equipment (16) further comprises:

a bottom wall (22) opposite the insertion opening (21);

a pair of folding walls (23, 24) comprising a first folding wall (23) and a second folding wall (24) facing each other, located between the bottom wall (22) and the insertion opening (21) and configured to fold the wrapping sheet (100) to at least partially cover side walls of the container (200);

folding appendages (25) facing each other, located between the pair of folding walls (23, 24) and between the bottom wall (22) and the insertion opening (21) and configured to fold the wrapping sheet (100) to at least partially cover further side walls of the container (200).

2. Wrapping machine (10) according to claim 1, wherein the folding appendages (25), the first folding wall (23) and the second folding wall (24) are spaced apart to define respective openings (26, 27) configured for the passage of excess wrapping sheet beyond the side walls of the container (200).

3. Wrapping machine (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first folding wall (23), the second folding wall (24) and the folding appendages (25) comprise respective free ends facing the insertion opening (21); the free ends of the first folding wall (23) and the second folding wall (24) being closer to the insertion opening (21) than the free ends of the folding appendages (25).

4. Wrapping machine (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first wrapping path (WP1) comprises a folding surface (28) that is active at the insertion opening (21) of the first wrapping equipment (16), in the direction between the first folding wall (23) and the second folding wall (24), and is configured to fold the wrapping sheet (100) to cover a top wall (202) of the container (200).

5. Wrapping machine (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first wrapping path (WP1) comprises a folding insert (29) that is movable between an inactive position and an active position; said folding insert (29), when in the active position, operating in said first wrapping equipment (16) at said second folding wall (24) and being configured to fold said wrapping sheet (100).

6. Wrapping machine (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the folding appendages (25) are fixed with respect to the bottom wall (22) of the first wrapping equipment (16).

7. Wrapping machine (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein no folding device active on the wrapping sheet (100) is interposed between the feeder (52) of wrapping sheets and the insertion opening (21) of the first wrapping equipment (16).

8. Wrapping machine (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising:

a second wrapping path (WP2), distinct from the first wrapping path (WP1), extending between a respective loading station (CS2) and a respective extraction station (ES2), wherein said loading station (CS2) of the second wrapping path (WP2) is facing the extraction station (ES1) of the first wrapping path (WP1);

a second wrapping equipment (20) that is movable along the second wrapping path (WP2) and comprising an insertion opening (34);

wherein the insertion opening (34) of the second wrapping equipment (20), when in the loading station (CS2), has the insertion opening (34) facing the insertion opening (21) of the first wrapping equipment (16) when arranged in the extraction station (ES1).

9. Wrapping machine (10) according to claim 8, wherein said bottom wall (22) of the first wrapping equipment (16) is movable between a receiving position and an ejecting position in which the bottom wall (22) reaches the insertion opening (21); said bottom wall (22) being placed in the ejecting position when the first wrapping equipment (16) is in said extraction station (ES1) so as to transfer the container (200) to said second wrapping equipment (20).

10. Wrapping machine (10) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein said second wrapping equipment (20) comprises:

a bottom wall (35) opposite the insertion opening (34);

a pair of containment walls (36, 37) comprising a first containment wall (36) and

a second containment wall (37) facing each other, located between the bottom wall (22) and the insertion opening (34);

folding appendages (39) facing each other, located between the pair of containment walls (36, 37) and between the bottom wall (35) and the insertion opening (34), and configured to fold the wrapping sheet (100) to cover said further side walls of the container (200).

11. Method of wrapping a container (200), comprising:

providing a container (200) containing loose products having a bottom wall (201) and a top wall (202) opposite the bottom wall (201), a first side wall (203), a second side wall (204), a third side wall (205), and a fourth side wall (206) extending between the bottom wall (201) and the top wall (202), wherein the first side wall (203) is opposite the second side wall (204) and the third side wall (205) is opposite the fourth side wall (206), and wherein the third side wall (205) and

the fourth side wall (206) extend between the first side wall (203) and the second side wall (204);

providing a first wrapping equipment (16) and inserting the container (200) into an insertion opening (21) of the first wrapping equipment (16);

wherein inserting the container (200) into an insertion opening (21) of the first wrapping equipment (16) comprises:

arranging a wrapping sheet (100) to at least partially cover the first side wall (203), to cover the bottom wall (202) and to at least partially cover the second side wall (204) of the container (200);

arranging the wrapping sheet (100) to at least partially cover the third side wall (205) and at to least partially cover the fourth side wall (206) of the container (200);

completely wrapping the container (200) with the wrapping sheet (100) following the insertion of the container (200) into the insertion opening (21) of the first wrapping equipment (16).

12. Method according to claim 11, wherein arranging a first wrapping equipment (16) comprises arranging a first wrapping equipment (16) comprising a bottom wall (22) opposite an insertion opening (21), a pair of folding walls (23, 24) comprising a first folding wall (23) and a second folding wall (24) facing each other and located between the bottom wall (22) and the insertion opening (21), folding appendages (25) facing each other and located between the pair of folding walls (23, 24) and between the bottom wall (22) and the insertion opening (21).

13. Method according to claim 12, wherein arranging a wrapping sheet (100) to at least partially cover the first side wall (203), to at least partially cover the bottom wall (202), to at least partially cover the second side wall (204) of the container (200), to at least partially cover the third side wall (205) and to at least partially cover the fourth side wall (206) of the container (200) comprises folding the wrapping sheet (100) due to a contrasting action on the wrapping sheet (100) exerted by the first folding wall (23), the second folding wall (24) and the folding appendages (25).

14. Method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein arranging the wrapping sheet (100) to at least partially cover the first side wall (203) and the second side wall (204) of the container (200) comprises making a first surplus (101) of wrapping sheet extending beyond said first side wall (203) and making a second surplus (102) of wrapping sheet extending beyond said second side wall (204).

15. Method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein completely wrapping the container (200) with the wrapping sheet comprises transferring the container (200), with the wrapping sheet partially wrapped thereon, from the first wrapping equipment (16) to a second wrapping equipment (20) and arranging the wrapping sheet (100) to completely cover the third side wall (205) and the fourth side wall (206) of the container (200).

Drawing