“ARRANGING MODULE FOR ARRANGING A RIBBON-LIKE SUPPORT COMPRISING ENCAPSULATION ELEMENTS”

DESCRIPTION

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention refers to an arranging module for arranging a ribbon-like support comprising encapsulation elements adapted to contain, preferably, pharmaceutical products or medical-sanitary items. In particular, the present invention refers to an arranging module adapted to arrange said ribbon-like support in a configuration that is particularly adapted for storage, transport and handling phases preferably associated with the use of automatic delivering apparatuses.

PRIOR ART

[0002] Modern sanitary systems envisage a steadily increasing use of automatic delivering apparatuses adapted to optimize processes of administering pharmaceutical products or medical-sanitary items. In the state of the art such delivering apparatuses, typically installed in health facilities, such as for example hospitals, are well known. [0003] The document EP2838072 describes a delivering apparatus fed with a flexible ribbon-like support that comprises a plurality of encapsulation elements, known as blisters, containing in turn pharmaceutical products. In particular, the ribbon-like support is supplied coiled on a reel configured to be inserted, that is, installed, in the delivering apparatus.

[0004] Although such a system offers important advantages, it also presents some drawbacks that must be dealt with. In fact, the increasing use of automatic delivering apparatuses requires a greater efficiency in the logistical management of the ribbon-like supports that comprise the plurality of blisters containing, in turn, pharmaceutical products of medical-sanitary items.

[0005] Specifically, it is desirable to optimize the space required for the storage and transportation of said ribbon-like supports in the production firms, in the distribution stores, and in the warehouses or wards in health facilities. In this manner, the logistical management is simplified and, consequently, a greater versatility and reduction of costs are guaranteed.

[0006] However, in the prior art systems in which typically the ribbon-like supports are coiled on reels there is a waste of space when the latter are arranged in a box or a compartment, typically of parallelepiped shape, for the various storage and transportation phases and, moreover, for their use in the delivering apparatuses. 2

[0007] This drawback is particularly significant especially when a logistical management of large quantities of said ribbon-like supports is required, as for example in the case of centralized warehouses specifically dedicated to the reception, handling and distribution of large quantities of pharmaceutical products or medical-sanitary items supplied by different production firms for a plurality of health facilities.

[0008] Moreover, in the case in which the ribbon-like supports are coiled on respective reels, the reels include shapes and/or dimensions that, typically, are specific for the type of delivering apparatus to which they are associated, thus limiting their versatility.

[0009] Moreover, an adequate procedure must be provided for disposing the reels when the respective ribbon-like supports are exhausted. This is a drawback because the shape, size, weight, and the materials with which the reels are made impose a specific disposal procedure that is different from the normal procedures applied, for example, in health facilities. In particular, it is necessary to separate the reels from the other waste normally produced on the basis of the material with which they are made and/or based on their dimensions. Alternatively, it is possible to provide a procedure for returning the reels, for their reutilization, which inevitably requires additional steps for storage and transportation, with consequent cost increases.

[0010] The documents EP2690032 and W02008114177 describe flexible ribbon-like supports adapted to feed delivering apparatuses. In particular, in these documents are described ribbon-like supports arranged to form a serpentine stack (that is, arranged in a serpentine configuration). Said serpentine configuration provides a greater efficiency in the logistical management because the flexible ribbon-like supports take on a compact configuration that prevents a waste of space when they are arranged in boxes or in spaces, typically of parallelepiped shape, for the various steps of storage, transportation and use. However, the documents EP2690032 and W02008114177 do not describe an apparatus designed to automatically obtain said serpentine configuration.

[0011] Consequently, there is the necessity of devising a solution that overcomes the previously described drawbacks.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The objective of the present invention is to provide an arranging module adapted to arrange automatically in a serpentine configuration a flexible ribbon-like support comprising encapsulation elements adapted to contain, preferably, pharmaceutical products or medical-sanitary items. In this manner, there is a more efficient logistical management of a plurality of ribbon-like supports.

[0013] In the scope of the above objective, one purpose of the present invention relates 3 to an arranging module that reliably guarantees the arrangement of the ribbon-like support in said serpentine configuration.

[0014] A further purpose relates to an arranging module wherein the conformational characteristics of said serpentine configuration of the ribbon-like support can be easily regulated.

[0015] An additional purpose relates to an arranging module in which the contents of the encapsulation elements such as, preferably, pharmaceutical products or medical-sanitary items, are adequately protected in the forming step of said serpentine configuration of the ribbon-like support.

[0016] A further purpose relates to an arranging module that provides for a construction that is simple to design and install on the basis of a system of forming and/or packaging ribbon-like supports to which it is associated.

[0017] A further purpose relates to, in effect, a system of forming and/or packaging a ribbon-like support comprising encapsulation elements, wherein said forming and/or packaging system comprises an arranging module according to the present invention. [0018] The above objective and purposes, and others that will become more evident later in the following description, will be achieved by means of an arranging module, as defined in the independent claim 1 , and of a system of forming and/or packaging a ribbon like support, as defined in the independent claim 10. Preferred embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0019] The further characteristics and advantages of the arranging module for arranging a flexible ribbon-like support comprising encapsulation elements, according to the present invention, will become more evident in the description which follows relative to an embodiment given purely by way of non-restrictive example, with reference to the following figures, wherein:

- Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a forming and/or packaging system comprising an arranging module according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

- Fig. 2 is an enlarged perspective view of the forming and/or packaging system of Fig. 1 at the arranging module;

- Fig. 3 is a first perspective view of a ribbon-like support comprising encapsulation elements;

- Fig. 4 is a second perspective view of the ribbon-like support of Fig. 3;

- Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the ribbon-like support of Figures 3 and 4 which is arranged in a serpentine configuration; 4

- Fig. 6 is a first perspective view of an arranging module according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

- Fig. 7 is a second perspective view of the arranging module of Fig. 6;

- Fig. 8 is a side view of the arranging module of Fig. 6;

- Fig. 9 is a front view of the arranging module of Fig. 6;

- Fig. 10 is a first enlarged side view of the arranging module of Fig. 6 at a guiding section;

- Fig. 11 is a first enlarged side view of the arranging module of Fig. 6 at the guiding section;

- Fig. 12 is a second enlarged side view of the arranging module of Fig. 6 at the guiding section;

- Fig. 13 is a second enlarged perspective view of the arranging module of Fig. 6 at the guiding section;

- Fig. 14 is a third enlarged side view of the arranging module of Fig. 6 at distribution means;

- Fig. 15 is a third enlarged perspective view of the arranging module of Fig. 6 at the distribution means;

- Fig. 16 is a fourth enlarged side view of the arranging module of Fig. 6 at a collecting section;

- Fig. 17 is a fourth enlarged perspective view of the arranging module of Fig. 6 at the collecting section;

- Fig. 18 is a fifth enlarged perspective view of the arranging module of Fig. 6 at the collecting section;

- Fig. 19 is a sixth enlarged perspective view of the arranging module of Fig. 6 at the collecting section;

- Fig. 20 is a seventh enlarged perspective view of the arranging module of Fig. 6 at the collecting section;

- Fig. 21 is a schematic side view of the arranging module of Fig. 6 in a first phase of operation;

- Fig. 22 is a schematic side view of the arranging module of Fig. 6 in a second phase of operation;

- Fig. 23 is a schematic side view of the arranging module of Fig. 6 in a third phase of operation;

- Fig. 24 is a schematic side view of the arranging module of Fig. 6 in a fourth phase of operation;

- Fig. 25 is a schematic side view of the arranging module of Fig. 6 in a fifth phase of 5 operation;

- Fig. 26 is a schematic side view of the arranging module of Fig. 6 in a sixth phase of operation;

- Fig. 27 is a schematic side view of the arranging module of Fig. 6 in a seventh phase of operation;

- Fig. 28 is a schematic side view of the arranging module of Fig. 6 in an eighth phase of operation;

- Fig. 29 is a schematic side view of the arranging module of Fig. 6 in a ninth phase of operation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] In the description which follows, terms such as “upper”, “lower”, “horizontal”, “vertical” and other similar terms refer to an arranging module and to a forming and/or packaging system in normal operating arrangement, as shown in the enclosed figures. [0021] Moreover, in the present invention the term “parallel” is to be intended as “parallel or substantially parallel” and includes deviations from the perfectly parallel geometry, preferably within an angular interval of ± 30 degrees, more preferably within an angular interval of ± 10 degrees. While the term “orthogonal” is to be intended as “orthogonal or substantially orthogonal” and includes deviations from the perfectly orthogonal geometry within an angular interval of ± 30 degrees, more preferably within an angular interval of ± 10 degrees.

[0022] In Figs. 1 and 2 is shown a forming and/or packaging system 1000 that is configured, in this embodiment, to form and package a flexible ribbon-like support comprising encapsulation elements adapted to contain, in turn, pharmaceutical products or medical-sanitary items.

[0023] Preferably, the forming and/or packaging system 1000 includes, in succession in this order, a feeding module 300, a re-packaging module 400, an arranging module 100 according to the present invention, a packaging module 500 and, finally, a storage module 600.

[0024] In this embodiment, the feeding module 300 includes a trolley (not numbered in the figure) configured to carry a plurality of conventional packaging supports in blisters (not shown in the figure) each comprising a plurality of encapsulation elements, such as blisters, adapted to contain, in turn, pharmaceutical products or medical-sanitary items. Typically, the encapsulation elements are arranged on the respective packaging support in blisters according to a predetermined matrix, for example according to a matrix of n x m encapsulation elements in which “n” and “m” are integer numbers greater than 0 and 6 wherein at least one of them is greater than 1 .

[0025] The re-packaging module 400, in this embodiment, includes means (not numbered in the figure) configured to receive or collect the packaging elements from the feeding module 300, divide the latter into portions each comprising a given number of encapsulation elements (for example portions comprising each a single encapsulation element), and finally fix, or associate, each of said portions to a flexible ribbon-like support 200, along the longitudinal extension of the latter.

[0026] In this manner, referring to Figs. 3 and 4, by means of the re-packaging module 400 is obtained a flexible ribbon-like support 200 comprising along its longitudinal extension a plurality of encapsulation elements 202, such as blisters, adapted to contain, in turn, pharmaceutical products or medical-sanitary items.

[0027] The ribbon-like support 200 is formed with flexible material; it has a continuous, substantially flat structure provided with two opposite faces, and has a greater extension along a longitudinal direction L1. Moreover, the ribbon-like support 200 includes, preferably retaining it upon itself, said plurality of encapsulation elements 202 so that the latter are substantially separated from each other and are arranged along a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction L1 , or so that they are arranged longitudinally to the ribbon-like support 200. Typically, the encapsulation elements 202 are comprised in the ribbon-like support 200 so as to protrude from at least one of the two faces of the latter. [0028] With reference in particular to Figs from 1 to 5, the arranging module 100, preferably located downstream of the re-packaging module 400, is adapted to arrange in an automatic mode the ribbon-like support 200 in a serpentine configuration, as will be better explained later. In particular, in Fig. 5 is shown the ribbon-like support 200 arranged in a serpentine configuration (that is, arranged by forming a serpentine stack) defining a plurality of consecutive levels 204 stacked one upon the other.

[0029] In this embodiment, the packaging module 500 includes means (not numbered in the figures) configured to receive or collect from the arranging module 100 the ribbon like support 200 arranged in said serpentine configuration, and to package it inside an envelope, a cassette, a container, or the like.

[0030] Finally, in this embodiment, the storage module 600 includes means (not numbered in the figures) configured to receive or collect from the packaging module 500 the packaged ribbon-like support 200 and, subsequently, pack it inside a box and/or move it toward further steps, for example toward a warehouse.

[0031] Flowever, as is better explained below, it is possible to provide further constructions for the system 1000 comprising the arranging module 100 according to the 7 present invention.

[0032] With reference to Figs. 6 to 20, the arranging module 100 is shown, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, which is adapted to arrange in a serpentine configuration the flexible ribbon-like support 200 comprising the encapsulation elements 202 adapted to contain, in turn, pharmaceutical products or medical-sanitary items.

[0033] In the present description, the term “pharmaceutical product” is intended to mean any pharmaceutical dosage form adapted for administering any compound or composition, such as for example a tablet, a vial, a capsule, a suppository or the like. While with the term “medical-sanitary item” is intended an item or a device adapted for therapies, diagnoses and the like in the medical and/or sanitary field, such as tampons, syringes, needles, cannulas, bandages, reagents, components of a kit, or the like.

[0034] With reference to Figs. 6 to 9, the arranging module 100 comprises frame means 102 supporting distribution means 104, a guiding section 106 and a collecting section 108. In addition, the arranging module 100 is preferably provided with an electronic command and control system (not shown in the figures) that is configured to coordinate the action of the various components, as will be better explained below.

[0035] The frame means 102, such as for example a metal structure defined by a plurality of bars and/or panels, substantially define a vertical plane VP that is orthogonal to a horizontal plane HP on which is supported said arranging module 100. In particular, on the vertical plane VP lie a first vertical direction D1 and a second horizontal direction D2 that is orthogonal to said first direction D1 .

[0036] The distribution means 104 are arranged substantially on the vertical plane VP and are also configured to be slidingly engaged by the ribbon-like support 200.

[0037] The guiding section 106 is adapted to guide the ribbon-like support 200 through a feeding path 112, from an inlet section 110 of the arranging module 100 toward the distribution means 104.

[0038] The feeding path 112 of the guiding section 106 is configured, in turn, for guiding longitudinally (that is for longitudinally advancing) the ribbon-like support 20 along a direction lying on said vertical plane VP and also maintaining the ribbon-like support 200 orthogonal to said vertical plane VP. In other words, the guiding section 106 is adapted to guide the ribbon-like support 200 from the inlet section 110 toward the distribution means 104 through the feeding path 112 so as to arrange the faces of the ribbon-like support 200 orthogonal to said vertical plan VP and, also, so as to guide it by advancing it longitudinally along a direction lying on the vertical plane VP. 8

[0039] The collecting section 108 is configured to receive the ribbon-like support 200 that has gone through the distribution means 104. In other words, the distribution means 104 are configured to be slidingly engaged by the ribbon-like support 200 supplied through the guiding section 106 and, moreover, are interposed between the feeding path 112 and the collecting section 108.

[0040] According to the present invention, the distribution means 104 are configured to be moved in parallel with the vertical plane VP by means of first actuator means 114, such as for example a linear belt-and-pulley drive system, with respect to the feeding path 112 of the guiding section 106 and to the collecting section 108.

[0041] In particular, the distribution means 104 are configured to move in parallel with the vertical plane VP with a reciprocating movement along a displacement stroke DS (shown with a heavy broken line in the figures) between a first end-of-stroke position E1 and a second end-of-stroke position E2 defining a direction at least partially parallel to the second direction D2, more preferably defining a direction at least partially rectilinear that is at least partially parallel to the second direction D2, still more preferably defining a rectilinear direction that is parallel to the second direction D2.

[0042] Referring again to Figs. 6 to 9, in this state the reciprocating movement of the distribution means 104 induces a movement, along the displacement stroke DS, of the ribbon-like support 200 that slidingly engages the distribution means 104. Thus, since the ribbon-like support 200 is made to advance through the guiding section 106, the reciprocating movement of the distribution means 104 induces a distribution on the collecting section 108 of the ribbon-like support 200, thus arranging the letter in a serpentine configuration.

[0043] In this manner, the arranging module 100 allows an automatic arrangement of the ribbon-like support 200 in a serpentine configuration, thereby making efficient a logistical management with respect to the case in which the support, instead, is coiled on a respective reel.

[0044] With particular reference to Figs. 1 , 2, 6 and 8, the arranging module 100 is configured to receive, through its inlet section 110, the ribbon-like support 200 from the previous module of the forming and/or packaging 1000 system, such as for example the re-packaging module 400. In this embodiment, the inlet section 110 includes a commutation element 116 configured to alternatively address the ribbon-like support 200 toward the feeding path 112 or toward a discharge path 118. In particular, the discharge path allows the exit of the ribbon-like support 200 from the arranging module 100, avoiding the possibility of the latter arranging it in a serpentine configuration. In this 9 manner, it is possible to exclude the arranging step in a procedure carried out by means of the forming and/or packaging system 1000, for example when it is necessary to verify the correct operation of the modules that precede the arranging module 100.

[0045] In the present embodiment, with particular reference to Figs. 10 and 11 , the feeding path 112 is defined by a space between a first sliding wall element 120 and a second sliding wall element 122. In particular, the sliding wall elements, first 120 and second 122, are substantially coupled (overlapping) and spaced apart each other, leaving a passage defining said feeding path 112 that is adapted to slidingly receive at least one portion of the ribbon-like support 200.

[0046] Preferably, with reference in particular to Fig. 11 in which for the sake of simplicity the second sliding wall element 122 is not visible, the first sliding wall element 120 includes a groove 124 configured to be slidingly engaged by the encapsulation elements 202, projecting from a face of the ribbon-like support 200, as the latter moves through the feeding path 112. With this construction, the distance between the sliding wall elements, first 120 and second 122, can be slightly larger than the thickness of the ribbon-like support 200 so as to guarantee a precise advancing movement of the latter along the feeding path 112.

[0047] Referring again to Figs. 10 and 11 , in the present embodiment at least one of the sliding wall elements, first 120 and second 122, includes adjusting means 126 that are adapted to regulate the distance that separates them, preferably in the automatic mode. With this construction, the space between the sliding wall elements, first 120 and second 122, can be advantageously regulated on the basis of conformational characteristics of the ribbon-like support 200 so as to guarantee a precise advancing movement of the latter along the feeding path 112. Moreover, with this construction, it is possible to carry out in a simple mode a maintenance of the arranging module 100 on the feeding path 112. [0048] Referring again to Figs. 10 and 11 , the feeding path 112 of the guiding section 106 also provides an end portion 112e, or an outlet portion of the feeding path 112 with respect to the advancing direction of the ribbon-like support 200. In particular, in the most preferred embodiment, the end portion 112e is configured to orient the ribbon-like support 200 by guiding it, that is making it advance, longitudinally along a direction at least partially parallel to the first direction D1 , before supplying it to the distribution means 104. With this construction, the distribution means 104 are arranged at a lower height than the end portion 112e and at a higher level than the collecting section 108 with respect to the first direction D1 . In this state, by effect of gravity, the distribution of the ribbon-like support 200 on the collecting section 108 by means of the distribution means 104 is 10 advantageously facilitated to obtain said serpentine configuration.

[0049] In the present embodiment, the feeding path 112 and/or its end portion 112e define at least partially a curved path. In this manner a regular variation of the orientation of the ribbon-like support 200 is guaranteed, eliminating discontinuities that would cause undesirable jamming along the feeding path 112.

[0050] With reference to Figs. 12 and 13, preferably the guiding section 106 of the arranging module 100 also comprises first transport means 128 configured to make the ribbon-like support 200 advance along the feeding path 112 from the inlet section 110 toward the distribution means 104.

[0051] In this state is guaranteed a reliable movement of the ribbon-like support 200 with a desired and precise advancing speed possibly discontinuous through the feeding path 112 from the inlet section 110 toward the distribution means 104.

[0052] Preferably, the first transport means 128 are arranged upstream of the feeding path 112 with respect to the direction of advancement of the ribbon-like support 200. In this state, the ribbon-like support 200 is received substantially at the inlet section 110 and, advantageously, it is driven with a desired and precise advancing speed in the feeding path 112.

[0053] In the present embodiment, the first transport means 128 include a first advancing roll device 130 comprising in turn a first driving roll 132 and a first idle roll 134 that are configured to carry, or advance, the ribbon-like support 200 along the feeding path 112. Preferably, a distance (or a pressure) between the first driving roll 132 and the first idle roll 134 is adjustable to guarantee an effective advancement of the ribbon-like support 200, on the basis of the conformational characteristics of the latter.

[0054] In the present embodiment, at least one between the first driving roll 132 and the first idle roll 134 includes a first recess portion 136 configured to slidably receive the encapsulation elements 202 as the ribbon-like support 200 advances through the feeding path 112. In this manner, the encapsulation elements 202 and their contents are not damaged during processing by means of the arranging module 100.

[0055] Referring again to Figs. 12 and 13, preferably the guiding section 106 of the arranging module 100 also comprises second transport means 138 configured to make the ribbon-like support 200 advance along the feeding path 112 from the inlet section 110 toward the distribution means 104.

[0056] In this state, a reliable movement of the ribbon-like support 200 is further guaranteed, with a desired and precise advancing speed possibly discontinuous, through the feeding path 112 of the guiding section 106 toward the distribution means 104. 11

[0057] Preferably, the second transport means 138 are arranged downstream of the feeding path 112 and upstream of the distribution means 104 with respect to the advancing direction of the ribbon-like support 200. In this state, when the ribbon-like support 200 is cut before entering into the feeding path 112 and is not made to advance by means of the first transport means 128, it is however made to advance with a desired and precise advancing speed through the feeding path 112 by means of the second transport means 138.

[0058] In the present invention, the second transport means 138 comprise a second advancing roll device 140 comprising, in turn, a second driving roll 142 and a second idle roll 144 that are configured to carry, or to advance, the ribbon-like support 200 along the feeding path 112. Preferably, a distance (that is, a pressure) between the second driving roll 142 and the second idle roll 144 is adjustable so as to guarantee an effective advancement of the ribbon-like support 200, on the basis of the conformational characteristics of the latter.

[0059] In the present invention, at least one between the second driving roll 142 and the second idle roll 144 includes a second recess portion 146 configured to slidably receive the encapsulation elements 202 as the ribbon-like support 200 advances through the feeding path 112. In this manner, the encapsulation elements 202 and their contents are not damaged during processing by the arranging module 100.

[0060] Referring to Figs. 14 and 15, in a most preferred embodiment, the distribution means 104 comprise folding means 148 configured to fold said ribbon-like support 200 around an rotation axis R1 of said distribution means 104. In particular, the rotation axis R1 is orthogonal to the vertical plane VP and, moreover, it moves integral with the distribution means 104.

[0061] Advantageously, in this manner, the arranging module 100 is configured to arrange in an automatic mode the ribbon-like support 200 in a compact serpentine configuration. In fact, by forming folding zones on the ribbon-like support 200 by folding around an axis parallel to the rotation axis R1 , a compact serpentine configuration is obtained because the folding means 148 are adapted to deform, preferably at least partially in plastic mode, the material with which the ribbon-like support 200 is formed. [0062] In the present embodiment, the folding means 148 include gripping means 150 (shown better in Fig. 15), such as tongs means that are configured to releasably hold at least a portion of the ribbon-like support 200. In particular, the gripping means 150 are configured to rotate around the rotation axis R1 to fold the ribbon-like support 200 in opposite directions of rotation when the distribution means 104 are in or move, 12 respectively, toward said first end-of-stroke position E1 and said second end-of-stroke position E2.

[0063] Advantageously, in this manner, the arranging module 100 is adapted to arrange in a still more reliable manner the ribbon-like support 200 in a compact serpentine configuration.

[0064] Moreover, in a most preferred embodiment, the gripping means 150 are configured to releasably grip the ribbon-like support 200 at one of its two longitudinal edges. In this manner, the encapsulation elements 202 and their content are not damaged during processing by means of the arranging module 100.

[0065] In the present embodiment, the distribution means 104 also comprise a sensor 152, such as an optical sensor, that is configured to verify if a transversal edge of the ribbon-like support 200 has reached the distribution means 104, or its gripping means 150. In this manner, the distribution means 104 can be reliable activated the moment when they are effectively engaged by the ribbon-like support 200.

[0066] With reference to Figs. 16 and 17, in the present embodiment, the second collecting section 108 comprises a containment element 154 provided with a base 156 adapted to receive the ribbon-like support 200, or a portion of the same, that has gone through the distribution means 104 (the base 156 is better illustrated in Fig. 17). In particular, the base 156 is configured to be moved by second actuator means 158 along a direction parallel to said first direction D1 so as to adjust a distance between the base 156 and the distribution means 104. In the present embodiment, the second actuator means 158 comprise a belt-and-pulley drive system that actuates the rotation of a screw engaging the base 156 bringing about the lifting/lowering (that is, the movement along a direction parallel to said first direction D1 ); however, this construction is not limitating. [0067] In this state, the ribbon-like support 200, when it reaches and go through the distribution means 104 mobile in reciprocating manner between the end-of-stroke positions (first E1 and second E2), is distributed on the base 156 of the containment element 154 forming a plurality of stacked levels 204 of the serpentine configuration, in which the upper level is formed substantially at a constant distance of the distribution means 104.

[0068] Advantageously, in this manner, the arranging module 100 is configured to arrange in a precise mode the ribbon-like support 200 in a serpentine configuration having desired conformational characteristics. In other words, it is possible to reliably form a serpentine configuration having a widely selectable number of levels 204.

[0069] Preferably, the containment element 154 also comprises two side walls 160 13 arranged parallel to the vertical plane PV and separated from each other by a distance substantially equal to the width of the ribbon-like support 200. In particular, the two side walls 160 are separated from each other by a space in which the base 156 moves along a direction parallel to said first direction D1. In this state, the stacked structure of the levels 204 is maintained operatively stable as the ribbon-like support 200 is arranged in said serpentine configuration on the base 156 of the collecting section 108.

[0070] Advantageously, in this manner, the arranging module 100 is configured to reliably arrange the ribbon-like support 200 in a serpentine configuration having desired conformational characteristics. In particular, by properly dimensioning the side walls 160, the stacked structure of the plurality of levels 204 of the serpentine configuration of the ribbon-like support 200 is maintained operatively stable.

[0071] With reference to Figs. 18 and 19, in the most preferred embodiment, the collecting section 108 also includes ejection means 162 configured to move the ribbon like support 200, having said serpentine configuration, from the collecting section toward subsequent modules of the forming and/or packaging system 1000, such as for example the packaging module 500.

[0072] In the present embodiment, the ejection means 162 comprise third actuator means 164 (better illustrated in Fig. 19) that are configured to move along a rail element 166 the containment element 154 or a part of the same, such as one of the side walls 160 provided with a bent abutment portion 168, so as to move the ribbon-like support 200, having said serpentine configuration, outside the collecting section 108 along a direction, for example, parallel to the second direction D2. Preferably, the third actuator means 164 comprise a linear belt-pulley drive system; however, this construction is not limitating, and it is possible to provide an embodiment in which the ejection means 162 comprise a pneumatic push system, or the like.

[0073] Referring to Figs. 14 and 20, in the most preferred embodiment, the collecting section 108 also includes first retaining means 170 and second retaining means 172 adapted to releasably retain at least a portion of the ribbon-like support 200 when the latter is at least partially arranged in said serpentine configuration on the base 156 of the containment element 154. Preferably, the retaining means, first 170 and second 172, are adapted to releasably retain at least a portion of the ribbon-like support 200, substantially at, respectively, said first end-of-stroke position E1 and second end-of stroke position E2 of the displacement stroke DS.

[0074] Advantageously, in this manner, the arranging module 100 is configured to reliably arrange the ribbon-like support 200 in a compact serpentine configuration. 14

Moreover, the retaining means, first 170 and second 172, guarantee stability of the serpentine configuration of the ribbon-like support 200 during the reciprocating movement of the distribution means 104 along the displacement stroke DS between the end-of- stroke positions, first E1 and second E2.

[0075] In the present embodiment, the retaining means, first 170 and second 172, comprise respective pressing elements, first 174 and second 176, and respective abutment elements, first 178 and second 180.

[0076] The abutment elements, first 178 and second 180, are mobile between an abutment position in which they engage a portion of the ribbon-like support 200 when the latter is at least partially arranged in said serpentine configuration in the collecting section 108 (position indicated with a broken line in Fig. 20), and a distant position in which they do not engage the ribbon-like support 200 (position shown for both the abutment elements in Fig. 20). In particular, in said abutment position, a portion of the ribbon-like support 200 is interposed between an abutment element, first 178 and second 180, and the respective pressing element, first 174 and second 176.

[0077] While the pressing elements, first 174 and second 176, are movable between a pressure position in which they press a portion of the ribbon-like support 200 on the respective abutment element, first 178 and second 180, when the latter is in said abutment position (position not shown for either of the pressing elements in Fig. 20), and a distant position in which they do not engage the ribbon-like support 200 (position shown for both the pressing elements in Fig. 20).

[0078] Preferably, the arranging module 100 also comprises cutting means (not shown in the figures) that are configured to cut the ribbon-like support 200 so as to define the portion of the latter that is arranged in said serpentine configuration.

[0079] The cutting means can be provided in various positions of the arranging module 100. For example, in a most preferred embodiment, the cutting means are provided upstream of the inlet section 100. Alternatively, the cutting means can be provided in the module that precedes the arranging module 100, such as for example the re-packaging module 400.

[0080] The operation of the arranging module 100, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, will be described below with reference to Figs. 21 to 29 together with Figs. 1 to 20 relative to the different components previously described.

[0081] First of all, the ribbon-like support 200 is provided on the arranging module 100 in position corresponding to the inlet section 110, for example by means of the re packaging unit 400 of the forming and/or packaging system 1000, as previously 15 mentioned.

[0082] Thus the guiding section 106 guides the ribbon-like support 200 toward the distribution means 104 through the feeding path 112.

[0083] Then, referring to Fig. 21 , a portion of the ribbon-like support 200 reaches and slidingly engages the distribution means 104. Preferably, the sensor 152 of the distribution means 104 determines if a transversal edge of the ribbon-like support 200 has reached the gripping means 150.

[0084] Thus, with reference to Fig. 22, the gripping means 150 preferably retain the ribbon-like support 200, and the distribution means 104 move parallel to the vertical plane VP toward the first end-of-stroke position E1. Moreover, the ribbon-like support 200 is advanced further toward the distribution means 104 through the guiding section 106. In this phase, preferably, the folding means 148 of the distribution means 104 bend the ribbon-like support 200 toward the second end-of-stroke position E2, by rotating around the rotation axis R1 (clockwise rotation in Fig. 22).

[0085] Referring to Fig. 23, when the distribution means 104 reach the first end-of-stroke position E1 , the gripping means 150 release the ribbon-like support 200 and, preferably, the first retaining means 170 of the collecting section 108 retain one portion of the same. [0086] Subsequently, with reference to Figs. 24 and 25, with the gripping means 150 in the state in which they do not retain the ribbon-like support 200, the distribution means 104 move parallel to the vertical plane VP toward the second end-of-stroke position E2. In addition, the ribbon-like support 200 is made to advance further toward the distribution means 104 by means of the guiding section 106. In this phase, preferably, the folding means 148 of the distribution means 104 bend the ribbon-like support toward the first end-of-stroke position E1 , by rotating around the rotation axis R1 (counterclockwise rotation in Figures 24 and 25).

[0087] In this manner, consecutive portions of the ribbon-like support 200 that slidingly engage the distribution means 104 are distributed on the base 156 of the collecting section 108, forming a first level of the serpentine configuration of the ribbon-like support 200.

[0088] With reference to Fig. 26, when the distribution means 104 reach the second end- of-stroke position E2, the second retaining means 172 of the collecting section 108 preferably retain a portion of the ribbon-like support 200.

[0089] Subsequently, with reference to Figs. 27 and 28, with the gripping means 150 in the state in which they do not retain the ribbon-like support 200, the distribution means 104 move parallel to the vertical plane VP toward the first end-of-stroke position E1. In 16 this phase, the first retaining means 170 of the collecting section 108 release the portion of the ribbon-like support 200 previously retained. In addition, the ribbon-like support 200 is advanced further toward the distribution means 104 through the guiding section 106. In this phase, preferably, the folding means 148 of the distribution means 104 bend the ribbon-like support 200 toward the second end-of-stroke position E2, by rotating around the rotation axis R1 (clockwise rotation in Figures 27 and 28).

[0090] In this manner, consecutive portions of the ribbon-like support 200 that slidingly engage the distribution means 104 are distributed on the collecting section 108, forming a second level, overlapping the first level, of the serpentine configuration of the ribbon like support 200.

[0091] With reference to Fig. 29, when the distribution means 104 reach the first end-of- stroke position E1 , the first retaining means 170 of the collecting section 108 retain a portion of the ribbon-like-support 200.

[0092] Then, by repeating for a plurality of times the reciprocating movement of the distribution means 104 along the displacement stroke DS between the end-of-stroke positions, first E1 and second E2, is induced the distribution of the ribbon-like-support 200 on the collecting section 108, thus arranging the latter in said serpentine configuration.

[0093] Preferably, in the phases previously described, when the distribution means 104 have completed the movement along the displacement stroke DS from the first end-of- stroke position E1 to the second end-of-stroke position E2 (and vice versa), the base 156 moves along a direction parallel to the first direction D1 so as to move away from the distribution means 104, leaving a space for the next level of the serpentine configuration. [0094] From what has been described heretofore, it is evident that important results have been achieved, overcoming the drawbacks of the prior art, enabling the production of an arranging module 100 adapted to automatically arrange in a serpentine configuration a ribbon-like support 200 comprising encapsulation elements 202 adapted to contain, preferably, pharmaceutical products or medical-sanitary items. In this manner, a logistical management of one or more ribbon-like supports 200 is made more efficient.

[0095] In fact, according to the present invention, the arranging module 100 guarantees reliably the arrangement of the ribbon-like support 200 in a serpentine configuration. [0096] Moreover, the arranging module 100 makes it possible to adjust the conformational characteristics of said serpentine configuration of the ribbon-like support 200. In particular, by appropriately selecting the length of the displacement stroke DS of the distribution means 104 and/or the movement of the base 156, it is possible to obtain 17 desired conformational characteristics of the serpentine configuration of the ribbon-like support 200.

[0097] Moreover, the arranging module 100 makes it possible to form said serpentine configuration of the ribbon-like support 200 guaranteeing, at the same time, a protection of the encapsulation elements 202 and of their contents.

[0098] Moreover, the arranging module 100 provides for a construction which is simple to design and install on the basis of a forming and/or packaging system 1000 for ribbon like supports 200 to which it is associated.

[0099] In particular, a forming and/or packaging system 1000, comprising the arranging module 100 according to the present invention, can provide for further constructions with respect to the one described above. For example, it is possible to provide a forming and/or packaging system 1000 in which a re-packaging module 400 is not provided and in which the ribbon-like support 200, comprising the encapsulation elements 202, is directly supplied to the arranging module 100 by means of suitable means, such as for example a reel. Alternatively, it is possible to provide a forming and/or packaging system 1000 in which the packaging module 500 is not provided and the arranging module 100 provides the ribbon-like support 200 directly to the storage module 600. Alternatively, it is possible to provide a forming and/or packaging system 1000 in which a storage module 600 is provided, equipped with one or more sorting circuits on which shuttles circulate each suitable to receive from the arrangement module 100 at least one ribbon-like support 200 having said serpentine configuration (possibly packaged or inserted into a box by means of the packaging module 500), and transport/deliver it to a predetermined sector of a plurality of sectors of one or more warehouses.

[0100] Naturally, the materials and equipment used to achieve the present invention, as well as the shape and dimensions of the individual components, can be the most suitable for the specific requirements.