DESCRIPTION

APPARATUS FOR MAKING A RESPECTIVE PACKAGE

Technical field

This invention relates to an apparatus for making a respective package and, in particular, to an apparatus for placing a wrapper around a respective product.

More specifically, the invention relates to an apparatus for wrapping a product, especially in the form of a container, a packet, a box-shaped element in general or a plurality of articles to be kept together in groups, in a respective wrapper.

Preferably, the wrapper is in the form of a sheet or length of film, made especially of a plastic material, for example, polypropylene, wrapped around the product and defining corresponding superposed panels or portions, preferably in contact with the respective faces of the wrapped product. Background art

Wrapped product packages known in the field can be broadly divided into two general configurations.

In particular, in the jargon of the field, a first type of package is denoted by the term "fin seal", while a second type of package is referred to as "standard". The first type of wrapping provides a more effective seal than the second type of wrapping.

More in detail, both of these wrapping types or configurations involve wrapping a sheet or length of plastic film round the product and defining a longitudinal closure or join, preferably on one side of the product, and transversal end closures at the longitudinal ends of the product in such a way as to completely enclose and hermetically seal the packaged product. More specifically, both of these wrapping types or configurations define a longitudinal closure, which is obtained by joining, in particular by heat- sealing, respective longitudinal end flaps of the wrapper that protrude laterally from the product to form a tube around the product, and opposite end closures which are obtained by joining, in particular by heat-sealing, respective end flaps of the wrapper that protrude longitudinally from the respective transversal end face of the product.

The wrapper types known as "fin seal" and "standard" differ in the style of joining or closing the longitudinal ends of the wrapper.

More specifically, the type of wrapper known as "standard" has a longitudinal closure or join which is in the form of first and second longitudinal end wrapper flaps which are superposed on and joined to each other and which are in turn superposed on and in contact with a corresponding lateral face of the product.

The type of wrapper known as "standard" also has first and second transversal end closures or joins comprising first and second tabs which protrude longitudinally from the transversal end face of the product and which are superposed and joined to each other and in contact with the corresponding transversal face of the product.

The type of wrapper known as "fin seal", on the other hand, has a respective longitudinal closure or join which is defined by a lateral wrapper fin that is folded and joined, in particular by heat-sealing, to the wrapper flap that is superposed on and in contact with the corresponding lateral face of the product.

The type of wrapper known as "fin seal" also has respective transversal end closures or joins, also in the form of respective transversal end fins which close the wrapper round the product, which are superposed on and in contact with the respective wrapper flap, superposed on the corresponding transversal end face of the product, and which are joined to that wrapper flap, in particular by heat-sealing. The transversal end fin has opposite, lateral protruding tabs or tongues which are folded onto the transversal end face of the product and in contact with a respective wrapper flap which they are joined to. The above package types or configurations are made using two different types of apparatus, each structurally and functionally dedicated to making a single type of package, that is to say, designed to make either a fin seal or a standard package.

One problem felt by companies which use apparatuses of this kind is that two different apparatuses must be available if they need to produce packages of different types. Consequently, users of apparatuses of this kind must not only incur high economic costs to acquire two different types of apparatus but must also have a great deal of space available to install the apparatuses in their production facilities.

As a result, companies which use apparatuses of this kind tend to purchase only one type of packaging apparatus, thereby limiting the range of products they can offer to the market.

It should also be considered that even when companies which use apparatuses of this kind do purchase apparatuses of both types in order to be able to produce wrappers of both types, they are not always able to use the apparatuses to the full. In effect, on account of changing market demand or marketing strategies, the apparatus to make one or the other type of package or wrapping style may be limited in its use or even left totally inactive. There is therefore an ever present risk that the apparatus purchased will remain unused for a considerable share of the total production time. This inevitably leads to financial losses for companies operating in this industry.

Another disadvantage of current packaging or wrapping apparatuses of this kind is that they do not allow production of packages whose configurations are adaptable to products with special shapes or configurations, that is, special packages which meet new technical requirements or specific marketing needs.

The industry therefore feels the need for apparatuses which allow making packages or product wrappers capable of meeting new custom requirements. Yet another disadvantage is due to the excessive time needed for installation and maintenance of the devices of traditional wrapping machines, which, moreover, cannot be tested until after completing installation which in turn means that in the event of a malfunctioning device, the machine must be disassembled and the device installed anew. Obviously, that means shutting down the machine, wastage of time and added costs.

Aim of the invention

This invention proposes a novel solution, alternative to the solutions known up to now, and/or, more specifically, aims to overcome one or more of the above mentioned drawbacks, and/or to meet one or more of the needs mentioned in or inferable from the above.

The invention accordingly provides an apparatus for making a respective package and, in particular for wrapping a product, especially in the form of a container, a packet, a box-shaped element in general or a plurality of articles to be kept together in groups, in a respective wrapper; the wrapper being preferably in the form of a sheet or length of film, made especially of a plastic material; the apparatus comprising a mounting frame for a plurality of assemblies designed to make the package and having respective operating units, which are, in particular, driven by corresponding drive means; characterized in that the mounting frame is configured to support respective operating units adapted to make packages of a first type and respective operating units adapted to make packages of a second type.

That way, a single apparatus structure can be used to make packages configured according to at least a first and a second type of package.

Brief description of the drawings

These and other innovative aspects are set out in the appended claims and the technical features and advantages are also apparent from the detailed description which follows of a non-limiting example embodiment of it with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

- Figures 1A to 1 F are perspective views illustrating the steps in the making of a package of a first type, known as "fin seal";

- Figures 2A to 2F are perspective views illustrating the steps in the making of a package of a second type, known as "standard";

- Figure 3A is a schematic side view of a first preferred embodiment of a packaging apparatus configured to make packages of the first type, known as "fin seal";

- Figure 3B is a schematic top view of a first preferred embodiment of an end closing device for making packages of the type known as "fin seal";

- Figure 3C is a schematic side view of the first preferred embodiment of a packaging apparatus configured to make a package of the first type, known as "fin seal", and illustrates in particular a different position of the pushing and insertion means;;

- Figure 4A is a schematic side view of the first preferred embodiment of a packaging apparatus which, however, is configured to make packages of a second type, known as "standard";

- Figure 4B is a schematic top view of the preferred embodiment of the end closing device which, can however, also make packages of a type known as "standard";

- Figures 5 and 6 are side views of devices for defining a longitudinal closure according to a first and a second type of package, respectively;

- Figures 7 and 8 are, respectively, a side view and a perspective view of the device for making a transversal end fin according to the first type of package, known as fin seal;

- Figure 9 is a perspective view of the part which drives the package end closing device, illustrating in particular only the part which drives the end closing means, this driving part being common to both the first and second type of packages;

- Figure 10 is a schematic side view of a second preferred embodiment of the packaging apparatus.

Detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention

Figures 1A to 1F illustrate steps in the making of a fin seal package which uses an elongate tear element or tape 15 according to the invention.

In practice, a product 11 , preferably in the form of a packet or box-shaped element, is placed in a respective wrapper 13.

As illustrated, the product 11 has opposite transversal end faces 11a, 11b, between which respective longitudinal faces extend, the latter comprising opposite main faces, normally the wide front and rear product faces 1c, 11d, and opposite narrower faces 11e, 11f, extending between the main faces 11c, 11d.

The product wrapper 11 is in turn preferably in the form of a sheet or length of film, especially of plastic material, in particular polypropylene, which can be conveniently heat sealed and which is wrapped round the product to be packaged, defining corresponding superposed panels or portions, preferably in contact with the respective faces of the wrapped product.

Of the superposed panels, the ones superposed on the transversal end faces 11a, 1b are denoted by the reference labels 13a, 13b, whilst those superposed on the opposite main faces 11c, 11d and on the opposite lateral faces 11e, 1f of the product are denoted by the reference labels 13c, 13d, 13e,.13f.

In practice, the longitudinal seal or join of the package is in the form of a respective fin 13g which protrudes laterally from the wrapper itself and which is located at a respective lateral face 11e of the product, the longitudinal fin 13g being obtained by joining, in particular by heat-sealing, lateral wrapper flaps 3'g, 13"g placed opposite each other and joined, as illustrated in Figure 1 B.

The longitudinal fin 13g is then folded and joined, in particular by heat- sealing, to the wrapper flap 13e which is superposed on and in contact with the corresponding lateral face of the product, in particular the lateral face 11e of the product.

The package C also comprises first and second transversal end seals which are in the form of respective transversal end fins 13h, 13h, which close the wrapper round the product and which are obtained by joining, in particular by heat-sealing, opposed wrapper end flaps 13'h, 13'h protruding longitudinally beyond the corresponding transversal face 13a, 13b of the wrapper.

Each transversal end fin 13h, 13h is folded on the respective wrapper flap 13a, 13b which is superposed on and in contact with the corresponding transversal product face 11a, 11b and joined thereto, in particular by heat sealing, as may be inferred from Figure 1 E.

As illustrated, the fins 13h, 13h have a respective central portion 131, 131 and opposite lateral tabs 13i, 13i, which protrude laterally or transversely beyond the lateral product faces 11e, 13f and which are advantageously folded on the corresponding wrapper flap 13e, 13f which is superposed on and in contact with the corresponding lateral product face 11e, 11f and joined thereto, in particular by heat sealing, as may be inferred from Figure 1 F.

Figures 2A to 2F, on the other hand, illustrate the steps in the making of a package of a second type, known as "standard".

As may be inferred from these drawings, in the second type of package C, too, a product 11 , similar in every way to the one packaged in the package of the first type, is wrapped in a wrapper 13, also similar in every way to that used for the first type of package. The components of the package which are similar to those of the first type of package are denoted by the same reference labels and, to avoid making this description too lengthy, will not be commented upon again in detail.

In the second type of package C, the wrapper 13 has a longitudinal closure 13m, preferably provided at a respective lateral face of the product and being, in particular, in the form of first and second lateral end wrapper flaps 13'm, 13"m which are superposed on and joined to each other and which are in turn superposed on and in contact with a corresponding face 11e of the product, preferably the lateral face of the product.

Further, the second type of package C has a wrapper with at least one transversal end closure, in particular a first and a second transversal end closure 13n,13n, .

Each transversal end closure 13n comprises a first and a second lateral flap 13'e, 13'f, at the lateral faces of the product which protrude longitudinally from the respective transversal end face 11a, 11b of the product 11 and which are folded onto the respective transversal end face 11a, 11b.

At the main, front and rear product faces 13'c, 13'd, each transversal end closure 13n also comprises main flaps which protrude longitudinally from the respective transversal end face 11a, 1b of the product 11 and which are folded onto the respective transversal end face 11a, 11b over the previously folded flaps 13'e, 13'f, and which, lastly, are joined to each other, as illustrated in Figure 2F to form the end closures 12n, 12n.

The other drawings illustrate a preferred embodiment of an apparatus for making a respective package, in particular for wrapping a respective product 11 , especially in the form of a container, a packet, a box-shaped element in general or a plurality of articles to be kept together in groups, in a respective wrapper.

As mentioned, the wrapper 13 is preferably in the form of a sheet or length of film, made especially of a plastic material, for example, polypropylene, that is to say, in the form of a film which is suitably sealable, in particular heat-sealable.

As mentioned, the apparatus of the invention thus provides a respective wrapper 13 which defines corresponding wrapper panels or portions which are superposed and preferably, as illustrated, in contact with the respective faces of the wrapped product.

As mentioned, the wrapper 13 also defines a longitudinal closure or join, which is obtained by joining, in particular by sealing or heat-sealing, respective wrapper end flaps protruding laterally from the product in such a way as to form a respective tube, and respective transversal end closures or joins which are obtained by joining, in particular by sealing or heat-sealing, respective wrapper end flaps that protrude longitudinally from the respective transversal end faces of the product.

As may be well inferred from Figures 3A and 4A, the apparatus comprises a mounting frame 12 for a plurality of assemblies designed to make the package and having respective operating units and/or operating means which are driven by corresponding drive means.

Advantageously, the mounting frame 12 is designed to support, or is set up to support, respective operating units which are designed to make packages of a first type C, as illustrated in Figures 5A and 3B, and respective operating units which are designed to make packages of a second type C, as illustrated in Figures 4A and 4B.

In practice and advantageously, the frame 12 comprises mounting or connecting means for respective operating units adapted to make packages of a first type C, and mounting or connecting means for respective operating units adapted to make packages of a second type C Also, advantageously, the mounting frame 12 supports one or more operating units which are adapted to make packages both of a first type C and of a second type C.

Advantageously, the frame 12 also supports main drive means which are adapted to drive one or more operating units.

Advantageously, the main drive means are in the form of a respective electric motor, preferably in the form of a brushless electric motor, which is not specifically illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

The main motor is, in particular, connected to the respective operating unit through respective transmission means, such as a gearbox to drive the pusher, toothed belts to drive different operating units adapted to make packages of a first and a second type, and an intermittor which is in particular adapted to drive the outfeed belt or means at the final wrapper closure zone.

Also, advantageously, the frame 12 supports a specific, or dedicated, drive means which is, in particular in the form of a respective electric motor, or brushless motor, which is adapted to individually drive a respective, specific operating unit of the apparatus.

Further advantageously, the frame 12 rotatably supports means for operatively connecting respective drive means for respective operating units which are adapted to make packages of a first type C, and respective operating units which are adapted to make packages of a second type C, as will become clearer as this description continues.

The operative connecting means may comprise a respective rotary shaft, a rotary eccentric, in particular one which rotates continuously or oscillatingly.

Advantageously, the frame 12 also supports transmission means by which movement is imparted from the main drive means and/or the specific drive means to the respective operating unit. These transmission means, for example, comprise respective belts driven by pulleys connected to respective eccentrics. The transmission belts are not illustrated in detail in the accompanying drawings.

Advantageously, the apparatus also comprises one or more operating units which are supported by a respective mounting means, or mount, and which are adapted to be connected to or have respective means for mounting or connection to, the frame 12 of the apparatus, the mounting means, or mount, of the respective operating unit preferably and advantageously carrying the drive means, in particular in the form of a respective electric motor, such as a brushless motor, of the selfsame operating unit. Thus, the mount of the operating unit also supports suitable transmission means by which movement is transmitted from the drive means to the working parts of the unit.

Advantageously, the mounting frame 12 is adapted to support respective operating units and/or operating means of these units which are adapted to make packages of a first type C or respective operating units and/or operating means of these units which are adapted to make packages of a second type C

Further, advantageously, the mounting frame 12 is adapted to support respective operating units and/or operating means of these units which are adapted to make packages of a first type C and packages of a second type C\

In practice, units or respective operating means for the units are provided which are in common with the first and the second configuration of the apparatus.

Advantageously, the mounting frame 12 supports main drive means which are adapted to drive one or more operating units and/or operating means of the respective unit.

The mounting frame 12 also supports drive means for individually driving a respective and specific operating unit and/or respective and specific operating means of the unit.

Advantageously, the frame 12 comprises a separating wall 12a between the operating units and the respective drive means.

The separating wall 2a is, as illustrated, a longitudinal wall which extends in height or vertically.

The separating wall 12 is in the form of a steel plate provided with suitable holes or openings for respective means.

The apparatus thus comprises one or more operating units and/or operating means of the units which are supported by respective mounting means, or mounts, and which are adapted to be connected to the frame 12 of the apparatus, the mounting means, or mount, of the respective operating unit and/or operating means of the unit carrying the drive means, or motor, of the selfsame operating unit or of the respective operating means.

As illustrated, both of the apparatus configurations, to make packages of a first type C and of a second type C\ comprise a unit 14 for feeding the product 1 to be packaged and which can be used to make packages both of a first type C and of a second type C.

As illustrated in Figures 3A and 4A, the unit 14 for feeding the product 11 to be packaged comprises means for advancing the products, in particular in such a way that they are spaced from each other along the product advancing direction.

As may be inferred from the drawings, the feed unit 14 comprises opposite belts 141 for engaging opposite flanks, or transversal end faces, of the product being fed, and means 142, in particular in the form of respective bottom longitudinal bars on which the products 11 rest and slide.

More specifically, the belts 141 for engaging the flanks of the product to be packaged are driven by corresponding main drive means of the apparatus.

In practice, the unit 14 for feeding the product to be packaged comprises means for advancing the products and which are driven by a main drive means, or motor, of the apparatus.

The apparatus also comprises a unit 16 for wrapping the wrapper into a tube shape round the product.

As illustrated, the wrapping unit 16 for forming the wrapper into a tubular shape round the product comprises a respective wrapping section 17 by which the wrapper is placed round the product 1.

The wrapping section 17 by which the wrapper is placed round the product is suitable for making packages both of a first type C, and of a second type C.

As illustrated, the section 7 for wrapping the wrapper round the product comprises a respective cavity 191 for receiving the product and the wrapper and a pushing unit 171 for urging the product 11 and the wrapper 13, held conveniently in place in front of the cavity 191 , into the cavity 91 , in such a way as to cause the wrapper 13 to be wrapped around the product 11.

The pushing unit 171 comprises a pusher 71a having a respective end 71' for engaging the product 11 , the pusher being movable between a withdrawn position where it engages the back of the product 1 and an advanced position where it pushes a respective product 11 and the wrapper 13 positioned between the product 11 and the receiving cavity 91 into the selfsame receiving cavity 191.

As a result of insertion, the wrapper is positioned or wrapped around the corresponding lateral or longitudinal walls of the product 1 .

The product pusher 71a of the pushing unit 171 is also movable between a raised position where it engages the back of a respective product 11 and a lowered position, below the path followed by the product feed means, in particular by the means 142 which support the product, so as to allow the pusher 71a to return to the position where it can pick up the next product. Advantageously, the pushing unit 171 is driven by the main drive means, or motor, of the apparatus.

More specifically, the pushing unit 171 comprises movement means or means by which drive is transmitted to the pusher 71a, these means being mounted on the frame or separating wall 12a through corresponding rotatable connecting means.

As illustrated, the movement means of the pusher 71a comprise a four-bar linkage mechanism 71 comprising first and second rods 71b, 71c, respectively front and rear, which are connected in a freely rotatable manner at a respective end, to a support 71 d of the pusher 71a, the support extending longitudinally along the product advancing direction. At the other, lower end of them, the rods 71b, 71c are pivoted, at 71e and 71f respectively, to the frame of the apparatus, in particular to a rotatable connection with the apparatus and to an oscillating arm 71 g by which the respective front rod is raised and lowered in such a way as to raise and lower the pusher 71a.

The oscillating arm 71 g for raising and lowering the pusher 71a is connected to a respective oscillating eccentric which is rotatably supported by the frame or wall 12. The four-bar linkage mechanism 71 is driven by a respective arm 71 h which is pivoted, in particular to an intermediate point of the respective rod 71c of the four-bar linkage, in particular to the rear rod 71c thereof, and which is in turn driven by a respective eccentric 71 i that is rotatably supported by the frame or separating wall 12a.

Advantageously, as mentioned, the eccentrics of the pushing unit 171 are driven by the main drive means, or motor, of the apparatus.

In turn, in both of the apparatus configurations illustrated in Figures 3A and 4A, the wrapping unit 16 for forming the wrapper into a tubular shape round the product 11 comprises a section 20 for mutually coupling the lateral end flaps of the wrapper 13 protruding laterally from the product 11 , in particular protruding from the lateral face 11e of the product.

More specifically, to make packages of a first type C, as illustrated in Figures 3A and 5, the section for coupling the lateral end flaps of the wrapper is adapted to join the opposed lateral end flaps 13'g, 13"g in such a way as to form a corresponding longitudinal fin 13g on the selfsame wrapper.

The device 20 comprises respective means 21 , 22 for coupling and joining the wrapper flaps 13'g, 13"g which protrude laterally from the product. As may be well inferred from Figures 2A, 2B, the coupling and joining means 21 , 22 comprise grippers or clamping and joining surfaces 22a, 22b, which are movable from a spaced apart position, illustrated in Figure 2B, where the product 11 and the respective wrapper 13 can be inserted freely into the cavity 191 when the lateral fin 15g is formed, and a close together position, illustrated in Figure 2A, where the flaps forming the fin are engaged and clamped.

The coupling and joining means are adapted to couple and mutually join the wrapper flaps 13'g, 13"g to form the longitudinal fin 13g and, advantageously, are also adapted to make the fin 13g at any point on the lateral face of the product.

According to another viewpoint, the coupling and joining means are adapted to couple and join the wrapper flaps 13'g, 13"g to define the longitudinal fin 13g at the lateral face 11e of the product and at any desired point between an upper end position and a lower end position on the lateral face of the product.

That way, it is possible to make corresponding product packaging or wrapping apparatuses which are flexible to use, that is to say, which are suitable for making packages in any desired configuration, at least as regards the position of the longitudinal fin 13g.

More specifically, the device for coupling and joining the lateral end flaps 13'g, 13"g of the wrapper to define a corresponding lateral fin 13g on the wrapper, thus comprises opposed first and second units 21 , 22, which are, in particular, vertically aligned with each other and which are positioned, according to the longitudinal direction of extension of the machine, in front of the cavity 191 for wrapping the wrapper round the product.

More specifically, the means 20 for coupling and joining the laterally protruding wrapper flaps 13'g, 13"g comprise respective opposed surfaces 21a, 22a which are adapted to clamp and join the laterally protruding wrapper flaps 13'g, 3"g, in particular by heat-sealing.

More specifically, the first and second coupling units 21 , 22 comprise respective heated elements or bars 21a, 22a which are adapted to clamp and join the laterally protruding wrapper flaps 13'g, 13"g to each other, in particular by heat-sealing.

Means are also advantageously provided for adjusting the abutment position of the opposed surfaces 21a, 22a for clamping and joining the laterally protruding wrapper flaps 13'g, 13"g.

More specifically, the means for adjusting the abutment position of the opposed surfaces 21a, 22a for clamping and joining the laterally protruding wrapper flaps 13'g, 3"g are provided on the first coupling and joining unit 21.

The means for adjusting the abutment position of the opposed surfaces 21a, 22a for clamping and joining the laterally protruding wrapper flaps 13'g, 13"g are also provided on the second coupling and joining unit 22. More specifically, the means for adjusting the abutment position of the opposed surfaces 21a, 22a for clamping and joining the laterally protruding wrapper flaps 13'g, 13"g are adapted to move the respective coupling and joining unit, in particular vertically, to the other connecting and joining unit 22, to the cavity for housing the package, or relative to the wrapper and product.

More specifically, the means for moving the respective coupling and joining unit are adapted to move the first coupling and joining unit 21 in its entirety.

For the purpose, the means for moving the respective coupling and joining unit 21 comprise means 125 for the relative movement and positioning of, in particular for lowering and lifting, the coupling and joining unit 21 relative to a fixed support 126, in particular mounted on the frame 12, that is, on the wall 12a thereof.

The means 125 for the relative movement and positioning of the coupling and joining unit 21 relative to a fixed support 126 comprise an element 125a which is integral with the coupling and joining unit 21, the element 125a being operatively connected to a corresponding element 125b which is connected to the fixed support 126.

The means 125 for the relative movement and positioning of the coupling and joining unit 21 relative to a fixed support 126 comprise a respective threaded bush 125a which is, in particular, integral with the coupling and joining unit 21 , meshed with a respective screw 125b being in particular connected to the support 126.

That way, the position of the respective coupling and joining unit 21 can be adjusted quickly and easily.

As illustrated, the screw 125b is inserted into a corresponding through hole 126', in particular, extending vertically, made in the supporting plate 126, which in turn protrudes transversely from the wall 12a of the frame of the apparatus. The screw 125b is inserted into a corresponding bush 125a, one end of which 127 is inserted into the plate 124 of the coupling and joining unit 21 and which is described in more detail below.

The screw 125b is tightened or held against the plate or support 126 through the agency of corresponding nuts 128, 129, on opposite sides of the supporting plate 126 and of the through hole 126'.

Further, advantageously, the means for adjusting the abutment position of the opposed surfaces 21a, 22a for clamping and joining the laterally protruding wrapper flaps 13'g, 13"g are in the form of means for adjusting the stroke of the respective clamping and joining surface 22a.

More specifically, the means for adjusting the stroke of the respective clamping and joining surface 22a are in the form of means for adjusting the stroke of the respective clamping and joining surface 22a between an open position for inserting the product and wrapper into the respective cavity 191 and a closed, engaged and joining position.

For that purpose, the means for adjusting the stroke of the respective clamping and joining surface 22a are in the form of means for adjusting the angle of rotation of a respective eccentric 23a of the second coupling and joining unit 22.

More specifically, a corresponding program for managing the operation of the unit or device which seals the longitudinal fin 13g, or of the entire apparatus, varies the rotation of the shaft of an electric motor 23, the shaft rotating alternatingly through a predetermined angle which can be conveniently varied to modify the angular movement of the eccentric 23a and, hence, the stroke of the engagement and joining surface 22a of the upper, or second, coupling and joining unit 22.

Looking in more detail, it may be observed that the first coupling unit 21 has a body 21aa defining the engagement surface 2 a, said body being movable, in particular, as illustrated, movable vertically upwards, in such a way as to clamp and join the laterally protruding wrapper flaps 3'g, 13"g, in particular by heat sealing, and possibly also to fold a respective laterally protruding wrapper flap 131 onto the respective face 11e of the product, in particular on the lateral face of the selfsame product.

As illustrated, the first coupling unit 21 is mounted on corresponding supporting means 21b which are connected to the frame, in particular to the separating wall 12a of the frame.

In practice, the first coupling unit 21 is mounted on corresponding supporting means 21b and the frame, in particular the separating wall 12a of the frame has respective fastening means for the first coupling unit 21. The first coupling unit 21 is mounted on corresponding supporting means 21b.

The fastening means for the first coupling unit provided on the frame, in particular on the separating wall 12a of the frame, are in the form of corresponding holes 121 into which matching connecting screws 122 are inserted.

In practice, the first coupling unit 21 comprises respective supporting means 21b for the movable body 21 aa, a corresponding means, or motor, for driving the movable clamping and joining body or surface 21a, and transmission means located between them.

Advantageously, the supporting means 21b of the first coupling unit 21 extend in cantilever fashion from the separating wall 12a.

The supporting means 21b of the first coupling unit 21 have an elongate beam 21c which extends in cantilever fashion from the separating wall. The drive means, or motor, is provided on the opposite side of the separating wall 12a.

The cantilevered beam 21c extends through a corresponding opening made in the separating wall 12a of the frame.

The elongate beam 21c, which extends in cantilever fashion from the frame also supports corresponding transmission means connecting the motor which is positioned and mounted on the side opposite the packaging side of the mounting frame, or wall, of the machine.

The supporting means 21b of the first coupling unit comprise a respective plate 124 having respective vertically oblong holes 123 which define fastening means, in particular for the connecting screws 122.

Obviously, the plate 124 is integral with the elongate beam 21c.

The supporting means 21b of the first coupling unit 21 have respective guide means 21e, in particular in the form of a first and a second vertical guide, for a slide or slider 21 ab, in particular in the form of a main body 21 ab which carries the body 21 aa which defines the clamping and joining surface 21a.

The supporting slide or slider 21 ab is movable vertically along a path which lies in a plane substantially perpendicular to the separating wall 2a of the mounting frame.

The slide or slider 21 ab is actuated by a respective arm or link rod having one end pivoted to the selfsame slide or slider 21ab and the other end connected to a corresponding eccentric which is mounted on the supporting means or beam 21c of the first unit 21.

The eccentric thus lies in a plane perpendicular to the separating wall, that is, in a plane defined by the elongate supporting beam 21c to which it is connected by a corresponding bearing or support.

The eccentric is driven through the agency of a respective pulley 21' integral with a corresponding shaft 21", the pulley 21' being driven by an elongate belt parallel to the supporting beam 21c which extends on the other side of the separating wall 12a so as to be suitably driven by the corresponding brushless electric motor.

In practice, the movable body 21 aa defining the clamping and joining surface 21a is driven by a corresponding eccentric, which is controlled by the drive means or motor which is mounted on the supporting means 21b of the apparatus.

In practice, the movable body 21 aa defining the clamping and joining surface 21a is driven by a corresponding eccentric, which is mounted on the same supporting means as the first unit. The eccentric and arm, or link rod for actuating the slider 21 ab are not illustrated in detail in the accompanying drawings.

In practice, the engagement and joining body 21 aa, or surface 21a, moves alternatingly between a retracted position and a retracted position for engaging and joining the respective wrapper flaps.

The movable body 21aa is in the form of a heated body which is adapted to seal, in particular to heat seal, the wrapper flaps which define the longitudinal fin 13g.

As illustrated in Figure 3, the second coupling unit, or upper unit 22, has a body 22aa which defines an engagement surface 22a and which is adapted to clamp and join the laterally protruding wrapper flaps 13'g, 13"g, in particular by heat sealing, to make the longitudinal fin 13g of the wrapper.

As illustrated in Figures 4 to 6 and as will become clearer as this description continues, the second coupling unit, or upper unit 22, has a body 22aa which defines an engagement surface 22a and which is conveniently movable to clamp and join the laterally protruding wrapper flaps, in particular by heat sealing, to make the longitudinal fin 13g of the wrapper, also folding a respective laterally protruding wrapper flap 13m onto the respective face 11e of the product.

More specifically, the movable body 22aa which defines the engagement surface 22a is movable vertically downwards.

The movable body 22a of the second coupling unit 22 is supported by the frame or mounting wall 12a through the agency of corresponding guide means, which are not illustrated in detail in the accompanying drawings, which are fixed to the wall 12a and which allow the movable body 22a to be translated vertically and/or parallel to the plane defined by the mounting wall 12a.

The movable body 22a of the second coupling unit has a respective drive means, or motor, 23, the drive means 23 being fixed, in particular by corresponding screws, to the frame or mounting wall 12a, on the side of the latter opposite to that where packaging is performed. In practice, the frame 12, in particular the separating wall 12a, has respective connecting means for the second coupling unit, which are, in particular, in the form of means for guiding the movement of the movable body 22a of the second coupling unit 22 and of an eccentric 23a for driving the movable body 22a of the second coupling unit 22.

As shown in Figure 3, the eccentric 23a is connected through a respective arm 22c to the movable body 22aa of the second coupling unit and is driven by the motor 23 through a respective belt 23b connected to a pulley 23c coaxial with the eccentric 23a.

The drive means or motor 23 of the movable body of the second coupling unit moves with oscillating motion whose angular extent is selectively determined to define a respective stroke of the body 22aa and of the clamping and joining surface 22a.

In practice, the drive means or motor 23 of the movable body of the second coupling unit moves with oscillating motion whose angular extent is predetermined to define a respective stroke of the body or clamping and joining surface.

The unit for coupling lateral, protruding wrapper flaps also comprises means for folding in particular the protruding flaps 13'g, 13"g, after they have been coupled and joined to each other, onto the lateral face 11e of the product, in particular onto the wrapper panel 13e which is superposed on the lateral face 1e of the product.

The folding means 24 comprise a body defining a surface, in particular, an arcuate surface 24a for engaging the respective flap and compressing the latter on the opposed lateral face 11 e of the product.

In practice the product is made to advance on the conveying wheel defining the cavities 191 and the tile 24 pushes the tab or longitudinal fin 13g into contact with the corresponding panel 131 which is superposed on the face 11e of the product 11.

Advantageously, the folding element, or tile, 24 is integral with the element 22aa and is therefore mounted on the second coupling unit 22, and must thus be considered as an integral part thereof.

The movable body 22aa is in the form of a heated body which is adapted to seal, in particular to heat seal, the wrapper flaps which define the longitudinal fin 13g.

As illustrated in Figures 4A and 6, in order to make packages of a second type C, the coupling section 20 for coupling lateral end flaps 13'm, 13"m of the wrapper is adapted to position these opposed lateral end flaps so they are superposed over each other and over the respective lateral face 11e of the product.

More specifically, the coupling section 20 for coupling laterally protruding wrapper flaps 13'm, 13"m also comprise opposed first and second units 121 , 122.

The first coupling unit 121 has a movable body 121a, which in particular is movable vertically upwards, for engaging and folding a laterally protruding wrapper flap 13'm onto the respective product face, in particular onto the lateral face 11e of the selfsame product.

The first coupling unit 121 comprises respective supporting means 121b for the movable body or paddle 121a, these supporting means being connected in articulated fashion to the frame or wall 12a of the apparatus. In practice, the first coupling unit 121 is driven by the main drive means, or motor, of the apparatus.

The supporting means 121b of the engagement body 121a are in the form of an elongate body which is driven by an eccentric at the separating wall 12a of the frame.

As mentioned, the supporting means 121b of the body 121a are connected in articulated fashion to the frame, or separating wall, 12a, through a four-bar linkage mechanism having first and second link bars or rods 121d, 121e which are pivoted to the supporting body 121b and, at the other end, to the frame or wall 12a.

The eccentric which drives the coupling unit 121 is labelled 121c and is connected or driven by the main motor of the apparatus. The pivots 121f, 121g of the articulated rods of the engagement and folding body 121a are mounted on a plate which is connectable to the frame, or wall, 12a of the apparatus, in particular at the selfsame fastening holes of the first coupling unit 21 to make the first type of package C.

In practice, the frame, in particular the separating wall 12a of the frame has respective fastening or connecting means for the first coupling unit 121.

Advantageously, therefore, the frame, and in particular, the separating wall 12a of the frame has respective fastening or connecting means for the first coupling unit 121 used to make packages of a second type C\ these fastening or connecting means corresponding to, or being the same as, the fastening means of the first coupling means 21 used to make packages of the first type C.

In practice the fastening means for the first coupling unit 121 are in the form of corresponding holes into which matching connecting screws are inserted.

The assembly 120 also comprises a second coupling unit 122 in turn comprising a respective body 122a which is adapted to fold a respective laterally protruding flap 13"m onto the respective face of the product, in particular onto the lateral face 11e of the selfsame product, on top of the previously folded protruding flap 13'm.

The frame, in particular the separating wall 12a, has respective fastening means for the second coupling unit 122, the fastening means for the second coupling unit 122 being in the form of corresponding holes into which matching connecting screws are inserted.

In practice, the second coupling unit 122 is in the form of a fixed body on the mounting frame 12, that is, on the separating wall 12a thereof.

The body 122a defining the engagement and folding surface is in the form of a body defining a surface, in particular, an arcuate surface 24a for engaging the respective flap and compressing the latter on the opposed lateral face e of the product. The folding body 24 is connected to, in particular integral with, a protruding portion, labelled 122s in Figure 6, which defines means for fastening to the frame.

The assembly 16 for wrapping the wrapper into a tube shape further comprises a unit 26 for sealing the coupled lateral flaps of the wrapper at the respective product face, in particular at the lateral face of the selfsame product.

The unit 26 for sealing the coupled lateral flaps of the wrapper operate on the product while the latter is on the respective product advancing means. The unit 26 for sealing the coupled lateral flaps of the wrapper comprises a respective sealing element 261 which is movable between a spaced position where the product can move forward freely and an advanced, sealing position where it is in contact with a lateral face of the product. Also, as illustrated, the unit 26 for sealing the coupled lateral flaps of the wrapper comprises a respective second sealing element 262 which is movable between a spaced position where the product can move downstream freely and an advanced, sealing position where it is in contact with a lateral face of the product.

Furthermore, in the case of the machine configuration for making a package of a standard type, the unit 26 for sealing the coupled lateral flaps of the wrapper also comprises a third sealing element 263, also movable between a spaced position where the product can move downstream and an advanced, sealing position where it is in contact with a lateral face of the product.

Means are provided for driving the sealing elements 261, 262, 263 and which comprise respective control or operative connecting means 64 and corresponding transmission means 65.

These control means comprise a respective eccentric driven by a specific drive means, or motor, which is advantageously fixed to the frame 12, in particular to the separating wall 12a, while remaining on the inner side, or drive side, thereof. Each sealing element 261 , 262, 263 is mounted at one end of a respective supporting rod 66 which is integral with a transversal rotary pin or shaft 67 being, in particular, rotatably supported on the frame, and more specifically, on the separating wall 12a of the apparatus.

In practice, the transmission or drive means of each sealing element comprise the sealing element supporting rod 66 which is angularly movable with alternating motion under the driving action of the transversal rotary pin or shaft 67.

In practice the drive means of each sealing element 261, 262, 263 comprise a respective elongate supporting rod 66, to one end of which the sealing element is fixed and which is integral, at the other end of it, to a transversal rotary pin or shaft 67.

These transmission means extend between the control means 64 and the corresponding supporting pin 67 of the respective sealing element 261 , 262, 263 and impart to the supporting pin 67 an alternating angular movement.

These transmission means also comprise a respective conrod 69 having one driven end and the other end fixed to a lever 67a which is pivoted to the mounting pin 67 of the respective sealing element 261 , 262, 263.

In practice, the driven end of the respective conrod 69 of each sealing element 263, 262, 261 is connected, respectively, to the lever which is driven by the sealing element 262, to the lever which is driven by the sealing element 261 , and to the lever which is driven by the main conrod 68' which is in turn driven directly by the control eccentric 64.

In practice, these transmission means comprise a respective lever, in particular of the pivotal hinge joint type, which is driven by a conrod connected upstream of the drive chain to corresponding levers of the sealing elements upstream, that is to say, to the control eccentric 64 which moves with alternating angular motion.

Also, the reference label 68" denotes a cylinder which controls the plurality of sealing elements and which has a respective movable stem which is connected to the first conrod, or main conrod, 68' of the transmission chain of the sealing means.

As illustrated, the assembly 16 for wrapping the wrapper into a tube shape further comprises means 19 for feeding the product and the wrapper wrapped round it, and which, in particular, move with alternating feed motion, where feed steps are alternated with respective dwell steps.

Advantageously, the feed means 19 are suitable for making packages both of a first type C and of a second type C

The means 19 for feeding the product and the wrapper at the tubular wrapping assembly are driven by a main drive means, or motor, of the apparatus.

The product feed means 19 comprise a plurality of cavities 191 , each accommodating a product and the respective wrapper, and for positioning the products at respective operating stations.

The means 9 for feeding the product are in the form of a revolving wheel having a plurality of radial cavities 191 for accommodating the product, the cavities 191 having each a peripheral, or radially external, opening for receiving and delivering the product, the cavities 191 being angularly spaced, in particular equispaced, from each other.

In this embodiment of the apparatus, the revolving wheel 19 has, in particular, eight cavities 91 for accommodating the product.

The respective cavity 191 for accommodating the product receives the product at a respective receiving station and moves to a dwell, or sealing position, then to a further sealing position and then to a yet further sealing position and finally to a product release station.

Advantageously, the release station is angularly spaced from the receiving position by an angular spacing equal, or substantially equal, to 180°.

As may be inferred from Figure 4A, there is also provided an assembly 186 for transferring the product from the assembly 16 which forms the wrapper into a tube shape to the assembly 18 for closing the ends of the wrapper round the product. More specifically, the product transfer assembly 186 is adapted to make packages of a first type C or packages of a type C and, preferably, in any case, packages of the second type, known as standard packages.

The product transfer assembly 186 is driven by a main drive means, or motor, of the apparatus.

The product transfer assembly 186 comprises respective control or operative connecting means 186b, defined in particular by a respective eccentric, which is rotatably supported by the frame or wall 12a of the apparatus.

The product transfer assembly 186 comprises a paddle 186a for engaging the back of the product and pushing it out of the respective cavity 191 of the feed means 19, the paddle 186a being supported, in particular, by an oscillating arm 186c pivoted at 186d and having the general shape of an L. At the end of it opposite the end where the paddle 186a extends, the oscillating arm 186c is driven by a respective conrod 186e connected to the control eccentric 186b.

In practice, the paddle 186a for engaging the back of and pushing the product is operatively connected to the control eccentric 186b driven by the main drive means of the apparatus.

The apparatus also comprises an assembly 18 for closing the ends of the wrapper 13 round the product 1.

The assembly 18 for closing the ends of the wrapper comprises means 181 for feeding the product.

Advantageously, the feed means 181 at the assembly for closing the ends of the wrapper are suitable for making packages both of a first type C and of a second type C The means 181 for feeding the product are designed to transport the products between a plurality of stations for closing the ends of each wrapper round each product.

More specifically, the means 181 for feeding the product are designed to convey the products while keeping them, in line with and spaced from each other. More specifically, the means 181 for feeding the product are in the form of a conveyor belt 181a defining a surface 181b on which the product rests and having a plurality of protrusions 181c, in particular equispaced protrusions, for engaging the back of each product.

In practice, the means 181 for feeding the product are in the form of an endless conveyor belt and are movable with alternating feed motion such that product feed steps are alternated with dwell steps at operating stations where process steps are performed on the product.

As may be inferred from Figures 3B and 4b, the assembly 18 for closing the ends of the wrapper round the product comprises a unit 182 for mutually coupling respective wrapper end flaps protruding longitudinally from the product, in particular beyond the respective transversal face of the product, and defining a respective transversal closure which closes the end of the wrapper round the product.

As illustrated in Figure 3B, to make packages of a first type C, the unit 182 couples respective wrapper end flaps 13'h, 13'h protruding longitudinally from the respective transversal face 11a, 11b of the selfsame product, this unit and device thus being designed to define a respective transversal seal, in the shape of a fin 13h, which closes the end of the wrapper round the product, as illustrated in Figure 1 D.

More in detail, as may also be inferred with reference to Figures 7 and 8, the coupling device 182 comprises respective means 82a, 82a for clamping and joining, in particular by heat sealing, wrapper end flaps 13'h, 13'h protruding longitudinally beyond the transversal face 11a, 11b of the product, in particular to define the transversal fin for closing the wrapper round the product.

More specifically, the device 182 for making or defining a transversal end fin comprises means 82a, 82a for clamping and joining, in particular by heat sealing, wrapper end flaps protruding longitudinally beyond the transversal face of the product, these clamping and joining means being driven by corresponding means for movement along a respective path towards and away from each other.

The means for movement of the clamping and joining means 82a, 82a advantageously move the clamping and joining means 82a, 82a along a translational path lying in a respective plane P.

That way, it is possible to handle products of any size and, what is more, to make neat, fine quality fins.

In effect, the translational movement of the joining means allows the protruding flaps to be firmly engaged and moved towards the desired point of mutual contact and joining thereof.

In practice, the movement means of the clamping and joining means 82a, 82a move the clamping and joining means 82a, 82a along a translational path lying in a respective plane P perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the product or package or to the protruding flaps 13'h to be joined.

More specifically, as may be well inferred, the joining means comprise a respective pair of opposed jaws 82a, 82a for engaging the opposed end flaps of the wrapper.

In practice, the clamping and joining means comprise a respective pair of opposed jaws 82a, 82a for engaging the opposed end flaps of the wrapper and which are movable simultaneously towards and away from each other along a defined path.

Advantageously, the clamping and joining means comprise a respective pair of opposed jaws 82a, 82a for engaging the opposed end flaps of the wrapper and which are movable along opposite paths lying in a single plane P.

Advantageously, as illustrated, means 82a, 82a are provided for clamping and joining, in particular for heat sealing, the longitudinally protruding end flaps of the wrapper, these clamping and joining means 82a, 82a being carried on respective mounting means 82b which can be conveniently coupled to the frame of the apparatus.

Advantageously, means 82a, 82a are provided for clamping and joining the longitudinally protruding end flaps of the wrapper and which can be positioned vertically at a desired position to make the transversal fin at any point on the perpendicular extension of the transversal face of the product. Advantageously, the coupling unit or device, in particular the pairs of opposed clamping and joining jaws 82a, 82a, are carried on a respective mounting means, or mount 82b, which also mounts a specific drive means, or motor 82c.

More specifically, the electric drive motor 82c of the coupling device is a brushless motor.

As illustrated, the mounting frame 12 of the apparatus comprises secondary supporting means 12b, 12b located at the front of the frame wall 12a.

The secondary supporting means 12b, 12b are, in particular, supported in cantilevered fashion by the frame wall 12a thanks to corresponding transversal supporting rods 12c, 12c mounted on the separating wall 12a. More specifically, the secondary supporting means comprise a first and a second elongate supporting plate 12b, 12b, which extend longitudinally along the length of the wall 12a which they are mounted on.

More specifically, the elongate plates 12b, 12b extend parallel to each other and to the separating wall 12a.

The secondary supporting means 12b, 12b mount the assembly 18 for closing the ends of the wrapper round the product and, thus, also mount this coupling device 182.

The secondary supporting means, in particular the first and second elongate plates 12b, 12b also support the product feed means 181 at the assembly 18 for closing the ends of the wrapper round the product.

As illustrated, the assembly 18 for closing the ends of the wrapper round the product comprise a first and a second unit 182, 182 for mutually coupling respective wrapper end flaps which protrude longitudinally from opposite transversal faces of the product.

More specifically, the pairs of opposed clamping and joining jaws 82a, 82a are carried on respective mounting means 82b which can be coupled to the apparatus frame, in particular, to the secondary supporting means or mount 12b, 12b of the frame.

Thus, the mounting means 82b of the coupling unit 182 also mount transmission means 82d by which movement is imparted from the drive means 82c to the clamping and joining means, that is, to the opposed closing and joining jaws 82a, 82a.

Thus, the frame, or rather, the secondary frame supporting means, or mount, 12b, 12b, has respective fastening or connecting means for the supporting means 82b of the coupling unit 182.

More specifically, the fastening means for the supporting means 82b of the coupling unit 7 are in the form of corresponding holes into which matching connecting screws 182' can be inserted, as will become clearer as this description continues.

More specifically, the movement means of the first and second sealing means are designed to move the respective sealing body 82a, 82a alternatingly between an advanced position and a withdrawn or spaced apart position, where the next product can pass through freely and be positioned.

Common drive means 82c are thus provided for the first and second sealing means 82a, 82a.

The movement means of the first and second sealing means comprise a common rotary element 82e to which the respective sealing body or jaw 82a, 82a is eccentrically connected, so as to move the selfsame sealing body 82a, 82a alternatingly between a position where it is close to the other sealing body for joining the wrapper flaps and a spaced apart position away from the other sealing body for allowing the next product to be inserted.

In practice, the rotary element 82e, driven by the motor 82c, carries a first and second eccentric 82f, 82g at the opposite lateral ends of it.

In practice, the shaft of the motor 82c rotates alternatingly for a desired angular extent and causes the rotary element 82e and the eccentrics 82f, 82g to move accordingly, so as to drive the respective sealing element or jaw 82a, 82a.

The rotary element 82e mounts a respective pulley 82p which meshes with a belt 82q driven by a respective pulley 82r which is integral with the shaft of the drive motor 82c.

Each eccentric 82f, 82g thus has a corresponding eccentric fastening pin for a corresponding end of a respective conrod 82h, 82h whose other end 821, 821 is connected to a pin which is integral with a corresponding slider 82m, 82m which, in particular, runs vertically in corresponding guides, in particular extending perpendicularly to the jaws 82a, 82a located on the mounting means, or plate, 82b of the unit or device .

As illustrated, the joining jaws 82a, 82a are carried on the respective sliders or slides 82m, 82m.

Advantageously, as mentioned, the mounting means, or plate, 82b of the coupling device is connected to the frame 12b through the agency of corresponding connecting means which allow it to be positioned at a desired position in height.

More specifically, the mounting means, or plate, 82b of the coupling device is connected to the frame through the agency of corresponding connecting means 182 which can be locked to and unlocked from the frame 12b of the apparatus this device is associated with and which defines the connecting means of the vertical sliding means of the mounting plate, or means 82c.

More specifically, the mounting plate, or means 82b of the device is connected to the frame through the agency of corresponding connecting means consisting of connecting screws 182, which are inserted into corresponding holes, not illustrated, in the frame 12b, and into vertically oblong holes 183' made in the mounting plate, or means 82b of the device and which allow the mounting plate, or means 82b to slide vertically relative to the connecting screws 182.

In practice, loosening the screws 182, with wide heads 182a, unlocks the respective mounting plate, or means 82b of the device relative to the frame 12b of the apparatus and the mounting plate, or means 82b, that is the lip defining the oblong holes 183', can thus be made to slide on the shank of the connecting screws 182', until reaching a new vertical working position, where the screws 182' can be retightened in order to lock the respective mounting plate, or means 82b of the device relative to the frame 2b of the apparatus.

As mentioned, first and second opposed units or devices 182, 182 are provided for joining opposed transversal fins protruding from corresponding transversal faces of the product.

More specifically, and advantageously, first and second opposed units or devices 182 are provided for joining opposed transversal fins protruding from corresponding transversal faces 11a, 11b of the product, the units or devices being positionable at different heights in order to make transversal fins 3h, 13h at different heights.

Means are also advantageously provided for adjusting the stroke of the respective clamping and joining surface 82a, 82a between an open position allowing insertion of the protruding wrapper flaps to be joined and a closed position where the flaps are engaged and joined.

The means for adjusting the stroke between the opposed clamping and joining surfaces 82a, 82a of the laterally protruding flaps of the wrapper are in the form of a means for adjusting the stroke of both of the clamping and joining surfaces or jaws 82a, 82a.

More specifically, the means for adjusting the stroke of the opposed clamping and joining surfaces 82a, 82a are in the form of means for adjusting the angle of rotation of the respective eccentric which drives the respective closing and joining jaw 82a, 82a, that is, the respective, or in particular, common rotary element 82e, that is, the shaft of the drive means or motor 82c, especially of the common drive means or motor 82c. In effect, as may be inferred also from Figures 5 and 6, the distance "d" between the joining jaws or surfaces 82a, 82a may be varied in such a way as to adapt it to the size of the package to be made, so that the time taken for the jaws to be drawn together can be made advantageously longer for packages of smaller or reduced size.

In practice, the means for clamping and joining the flaps defining the transversal fin comprise opposed first and second heated sealing elements or bodies 82a, 82a, these clamping and joining means 82a, 82a being movable in a plane P parallel to the respective transversal end face 11a, 11b of the product, there being provided, in practice, an upper sealing jaw 82a and a lower sealing jaw 82b.

Furthermore, as illustrated, each sealing body or jaw 82a extends along the line of product feed or extension so that the clamping and joining operation is performed at a plurality of successive product dwell stations, and in particular, at two corresponding successive stations.

More specifically, As may be inferred from Figure 4B, for making packages of a second type C, there is a coupling unit 182 which comprises means for guiding the wrapper end flaps protruding longitudinally beyond the respective transversal face of the product and superposing them over the corresponding transversal face of the product.

The guide and superposing means 82' are carried on respective mounting means which can be coupled to the apparatus frame, in particular, to the secondary supporting means or mount 12b of the frame.

More specifically, the frame, especially, the secondary frame supporting means, or mount, 2b, 2b, has respective fastening or connecting means for the supporting means of the coupling unit 182 for the second type of package C

More specifically, the fastening means for the mounting means of the coupling unit 182 for the second type of package C are in the form of corresponding holes into which matching connecting screws are inserted. The assembly 18 for closing the ends of the wrapper round the product to make packages of a first type C comprises a unit 183 for folding the transversal fin onto the opposed transversal face of the product and which is, in particular, designed to fold the transversal fin upwards onto the opposed transversal face of the product, that is, onto a wrapper panel superposed on the corresponding transversal face of the product.

The folding unit 183 comprises a movable paddle for engaging and folding the transversal wrapper fin and which is carried on respective mounting means, the mounting means of the folding unit 83 being designed to be coupled to the apparatus frame, in particular to the secondary mounting means or mounts 12b, 12b of the frame and support the corresponding drive means or specific motor of the folding unit, that is, of the engagement paddle.

The assembly 18 for closing the ends of the wrapper round the product also comprises a wrapping end closure unit or device which joins, in particular by heat sealing, the respective end fin 13h to the wrapper flap underneath it.

More specifically, the assembly 18 for closing the ends of the wrapper round the product comprises a first and a second wrapping end closure unit or device 184, 184 which join the end fins at the respective transversal faces of the product.

More specifically, the termination unit or device comprises joining means 84a, in particular, heat sealing means, which comprises a respective element 84a which is movable from and against the respective transversal face 1a, 11 b of the product.

Advantageously, as may also be inferred from Figure 9, this unit or device is mounted on respective supporting means 84b.

In practice, advantageously, the supporting means 84b, mount a respective joining element 84a and transmission means 84c by which movement is transmitted to the transversely movable engagement and joining means 84b from a corresponding specific means, or motor, 84m for driving the selfsame unit 184.

Further advantageously, the specific means, or motor, 84m for driving the selfsame unit 184 is mounted on the supporting means 84b.

More specifically, the frame 12, or rather, the secondary frame supporting means, or mount, 12b, 12b, has respective fastening or connecting means for the supporting means 84b of the termination unit 184. The fastening or connecting means are preferably in the form of corresponding threaded holes made in the plate 12b into which matching connecting screws are inserted.

As illustrated, the transmission means 84c comprise means adapted to guide the engagement and joining means 84a from and towards the coupled flaps to be joined to the wrapper, along a path perpendicular to the respective transversal face a, 11b of the product.

As illustrated, the transmission means 84c adapted to guide the engagement and joining means 84a along a path which is linear or perpendicular to the respective engagement face 11a, 11b, advantageously comprise a four-bar linkage mechanism.

More specifically, as illustrated, the four-bar linkage guide mechanism comprises first and second articulated parallel rods 85, 85, in particular a first and a second pair of the articulated parallel rods 85, 85, which mount a plate 86, in particular a horizontal plate, which directly supports the engagement and joining means 84a, which are not, however, illustrated in detail in Figure 9.

The four-bar linkage guide mechanism 85, 85 is driven by the motor 84m through the agency of an eccentric 88 which is connected by a respective lever 89 to a respective rod 85 of the four-bar linkage in order to rotate alternatingly back and forth, that is, towards and away from the respective transversal face 11a, 11b of the product.

As illustrated, the mounting frame of the termination device 184 comprises a first and second side mounting plate 84b, 84b defining rotary mounting means for elongate rods 85', 85' which connect to the rods 85, 85 of the pair of four-bar linkages which support the plate 86.

As may be inferred from Figure 3B, advantageously, the engagement and joining means 84a have a respective engagement and joining element defining a main face 52a for engaging and joining the superposed coupled flaps superposed over the transversal face 11a, 11b of the product, and a protrusion, in particular a first and a second protrusion 52b, 52b extending forwardly from the corresponding transversal end of the main face 52a and being adapted to engage a respective lateral tab 11e, 11e protruding laterally beyond the corresponding longitudinal lateral face 11e, 11f of the product and to fold it onto the wrapper panel 13e, 13f which covers the longitudinal lateral face 11e, 11f of the product in such a way as to join it thereto, in particular by heat sealing.

More specifically, the first and second protrusions extend from the lateral ends of the front engagement and joining face 52a, defining respective opposed inside faces for engaging and joining the respective protruding flap of the transversal fin which seals the wrapper end.

Figures 4A and 4B illustrate this apparatus in the version of it for making packages of the second type C\ having components which are identical, or equivalent, to those of the above described version of the apparatus illustrated in Figures 3A and 3B, labelled with the same reference labels and which, to avoid making this description excessively lengthy, are not commented upon again in detail.

In this second embodiment of the apparatus, the termination device comprises joining means 84a which have only one flat joining face and are without the lateral protrusions of the first preferred embodiment of the device. Further, the reference numeral 182 in Figure 4B denotes respective flap folding means which may be of a type well within the knowledge of an expert in the trade.

In the embodiments illustrated, the engagement and joining means 84a are in the form of a heated body which is adapted to seal, in particular to heat seal, the wrapper flaps which are contact with each other.

As illustrated, there are a plurality of joining means 84a, mounted on the same device 8 and defining respective stations where the product dwells and is treated.

It will be understood that all the electric motors used in this apparatus are brushless motors.

Advantageously, the mounting frame wall means 2a comprise a first wall element 12'a, a second wall element 12"a and a third wall element 2"'a for respective operating means. It is thus possible to configure the apparatus in any desired manner, adapted to suit the specific requirements of the room where the apparatus is installed. More specifically, the second embodiment is illustrated in Figure 10.

The invention described above is susceptible of industrial application. It would be obvious to one skilled in the art that several changes and modifications can be made to the invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, described in depth above. In particular, one skilled in the art could easily imagine further embodiments of the invention comprising one or more of the features described herein. It will also be understood that all the details of the invention may be substituted by technically equivalent elements.