PACKAGING FOR A PLURALITY OF CONTAINERS, AS WELL AS LOADING UNITS INCLUDING A PLURALITY OF LAYERS OF SUCH CONTAINERS

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a package for a plurality of containers, for example bottles, and the like, as well as to a loading unit comprising a plurality of layers of such containers.

According to the present invention, the aforementioned containers are grouped according to different types, so as to allow easier transport, by means of a packaging solution with a low environmental impact which allows the quantity of necessary packaging material to be reduced, compared to the prior art, while maintaining the usual stabilization capacities of the containers inside the respective loading units, and the resistance during transport.

PRIOR ART

The term palletization defines the organization of the arrangement and packaging of products, in particular placed on a pallet; through palletization, layers of products are created which in turn, being superimposed, form the loading unit.

In the context of palletizing systems for products packaged in bottles, or similar containers, there may be a need to group these containers, i.e. the so-called primary packaging, into groupings of different units of the same bottles or containers, which constitute the so-called secondary packaging, in order to form the loading unit.

This situation arises mainly from the need to ensure adequate stability to the loading unit created by composing overlapping layers of containers from the production plant to the store, in consideration of all the stresses that may occur during transport. Furthermore, there is a need to provide the consumer, who picks up the containers at the sales site, with a system to be able to pick up these containers not individually, but in a grouped manner, so as to transport them more simply.

The solutions currently available to achieve these goals are different; the most common of these are discussed below, listing the drawbacks or limitations for each.

According to a first solution, which is very widespread, the grouping of the containers is obtained by means of a heat- shrinkable film bundle.

This solution provides for the use of a sheet in heat- shrinkable film which is wrapped around a group of containers by means of a heat- wrapping machine or shrink-bundling machine so as to form a bundle, that is, a wrapper that includes a certain number of containers; inside the bundle, the containers may be from a minimum of two to several dozen, and are arranged in rows that can be aligned with each other or staggered, in quincunx.

The drawbacks of this solution are as follows: the shrink-bundling machine has a high cost and a considerable size inside the filling and packaging line; the shrink-bundling machine has a high operating cost, mainly due to the presence of the heat- shrinking oven for the film, which can have an installed power in the order of hundreds of kW; to make a wide range of bundles available to the consumer in terms of the type of containers, and also the number of containers inserted, the shrink-bundling machine must be able to adapt to multiple formats, with the consequent complications for carrying out format changes, both manual and automatic; the need to handle different formats, in terms of type and number of containers in the bundle, entails similar complications also in all the machines downstream of the shrink bundling machines, in particular in the transport of bundles and in the palletizer; the film that wraps the bundle involves an additional cost in addition to that of the containers, the more significant the smaller the number of containers per bundle; the plastic film is not normally biodegradable, and involves the need for disposal; in some cases, in particular with small or medium-sized bundles, and with tall containers (such as bottles) in relation to the base of the bundle, it may still be necessary to use flaps between the layers of the load unit, to ensure the necessary stability in transport; due to the presence of the heat- shrinkable film, the products inside the containers may undergo heating, which may cause an alteration of some properties of the product itself. According to another solution, the grouping of the containers is obtained by means of a bundle made of extensible film.

This solution is similar to the previous one, but provides for the use of an extensible film sheet which is applied around the containers by means of a bundling machine for extensible film, so as to form a bundle.

The drawbacks of this solution are as follows: the bundling machine for extensible film has a high cost and a considerable size inside the filling and packaging line; the bundling machine for extensible film has a high operating cost, although more limited than the heat-bundling machine, given the absence of the heat-shrinking oven; to make a wide range of bundles available to the consumer, in terms of type and number of containers inserted, the bundling machine for extensible film must be able to adapt to multiple formats, with the consequent complications for carrying out format changes, both manual and automatic; the need to handle different formats, in terms of type and number of containers in the bundle, entails similar complications also in all the machines downstream of the bundling machines, in particular in the transport of bundles and in the palletizer; with current technologies, the possibilities of combining containers, for example bottles, in the bundle (short side versus long side) are limited; the film of the bundle involves an additional cost in addition to that of the container, the more significant the smaller the number of containers per bundle; the plastic film is not normally biodegradable, and needs to be disposed of; in some cases, in particular with small or medium-sized bundles, and with tall containers (such as bottles) in relation to the base of the bundle, it may still be necessary to use flaps between the layers of the load unit, to ensure the necessary stability in transport; with current technologies, it is not possible to satisfactorily apply decorations or designs, which may be required for commercial reasons, to the outer surface of the film. According to a further solution, the grouping of the containers is obtained by means of a large cardboard or plastic tray.

This solution involves the use of a cardboard or plastic tray into which the containers are inserted; in case of insertion of the containers in the cardboard tray, this must have been previously formed.

The containers inside the tray may be several dozen, and are arranged in rows aligned with each other, or staggered in quincunx.

The drawbacks of this solution are as follows: the system is normally able to handle only large trays, i.e. of the same size as the pallet, of dimensions equal to half a pallet or a quarter of a pallet; the containers inside the tray are loose, or at least they can be grouped two or three at a time; this limits the grouping possibilities available to the consumer; in some cases, it may be necessary to use additional stabilization systems in addition to the trays, for example straps applied horizontally around the layer of containers, to ensure the necessary stability in transport; the cardboard of the tray is made specifically for each format, normally by die-cutting machines, then the palletizer is fed with trays already cut, but this entails lack of flexibility in the case of variations in the container formats, for example the diameter, the shape, etc.

According to yet another solution, the grouping of containers is obtained by means of a cardboard tray or box, or a plastic tray or box.

This solution involves the use of a tray or a cardboard box, or a tray or a plastic crate into which the containers are inserted; these containers are inserted into the packages before palletizing, that is, before the loading unit is formed, by means of a suitable machine, such as for example a tray packer, a case packer or a casing machine.

The containers inside the package may be from two to several dozen, and may be arranged in rows aligned with each other, or staggered in quincunx.

The drawbacks of this solution are as follows: the machines for inserting the containers into the package such as the tray packer, the case packer or the casing machine have a high cost, as well as a considerable size inside the filling and packaging line; in some cases, in particular with medium or small packages and with tall bottles compared to the base of the package (as in the case of bottles), it may still be necessary to use flaps between the layers of the loading unit to ensure the necessary stability in the transport; to make a wide range of bundles available to the consumer in terms of number of bottles inserted, the packaging machine must be able to adapt to multiple formats with the consequent complications for carrying out format changes, both manual and automatic; the need to handle different formats, in terms of number of containers in the package, entails similar complications also in all the machines downstream of the packaging machines, in particular in the transport of packages and in the palletizer; the cardboard used for packaging involves an additional cost in addition to that of the containers, the more significant the smaller the number of containers per package; in the case of a plastic tray or crate, these are normally reused, but this reuse involves a return of materials from the consumer to the production plants and the presence of special machinery for checking, cleaning and storing these elements with consequent additional costs; the cardboard of the tray/box is made specifically for each format, normally by die cutting machines, while the plastic case is made specifically by molding; the tray packer, or the case packer, or the casing machine, is fed with trays/boxes already cut and crates obviously already molded, but this entails a lack of flexibility in the case of variations in the container formats, for example: diameter, height, shape.

According to another solution, the grouping of the containers takes place by means of a so-called cardboard cluster.

This solution involves the use of a sheet of cardboard that is applied around the containers forming a cluster; the cluster is applied to the containers by means of a machine called clustering machine; the containers within the cluster may be from a minimum of two to several dozen.

The drawbacks of this solution are as follows: the clustering machine normally has a high cost and a considerable size inside the filling and packaging line; to make a wide range of clusters available to the consumer in terms of the type of containers and number of containers inserted, the clustering machine must be able to adapt to multiple formats, with the consequent complications for carrying out format changes, both manual and automatic; the need to handle different formats in terms of type and number of containers in the cluster, entails similar complications also in all the machines downstream of the clustering machine, in particular in the transport of clusters and in the palletizer; the cardboard of the cluster involves an additional cost in addition to that of the container, the more significant the smaller the number of containers per cluster; the cardboard of the cluster is made specifically for each format, normally by die cutting machines, then the clustering machine is fed with pre-cut dies, but this entails lack of flexibility in the case of variations in the container formats, for example the diameter, the shape, etc. in some cases, in particular with small or medium sized clusters and with tall containers compared to the base of the cluster (as in the case of bottles), it may still be necessary to use intermediate flaps between the layers of the loading unit to ensure the necessary stability in the transport.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION.

The technical task of the present invention is to improve the prior art in the field of packaging containers, such as bottles and the like.

Within the scope of this technical task, an object of the present invention is to provide a package which allows the use of packaging materials to be reduced.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a package which may be made with easily recyclable and/or disposable packaging materials.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a package that allows the use of certain expensive and bulky packaging machines (in particular, but not exclusively, heat-bundling machines) to be limited or eliminated.

Another object of the present invention is to devise a package which, besides being an effective transport tool, allows stabilization of the layers of containers to be obtained in the context of the palletized loading units.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a package which provides maximum flexibility for the consumer in picking up the desired quantity of containers, without, for this reason, introducing complications to the production machines. According to an aspect of the present invention, a package for a plurality of containers is provided, according to claim 1.

In particular, the containers are of the type comprising a base and, at the top, a narrow section provided with an annular edge.

Usually, this annular edge is provided at the opening of the container, but not necessarily.

According to the invention, the package comprises a first upper constraint element, comprising a laminar element suitable for connecting and joining a plurality of containers grouped according to a predetermined arrangement.

Such a laminar element is provided with a plurality of openings for inserting the narrow sections of respective containers; each of such openings is defined by peripheral portions suitable for snap engaging below the annular edge of the respective container to be packaged, after the respective narrow section has been fitted into said opening. Moreover, the package comprises a second constraint element, arranged to connect the bases, or the lateral surfaces, of the containers to each other, and to prevent the mutual distancing of the same.

This solution, as will be seen, allows combining and transporting a group of containers, using a minimum quantity of a material (such as cardboard for example) which may be easily recycled and/or disposed of.

According to another aspect of the invention, the mutual distance between the centers of the openings of the laminar element is smaller than the mutual distance between the centers of the narrow sections of the containers grouped in said predetermined arrangement, so as to obtain a mechanical pre-load effect when inserting the narrow sections into the respective openings.

In this way, and thanks also to the effect of the second constraint element which prevents the mutual separation of the containers, a sort of lever is created in which the fulcrum is the mutual contact point of the containers, and the force applied to each container at the point of contact with the first constraint element is substantially balanced by a resisting force applied by the second constraint element. This effect ultimately allows the containers to be kept pressed against each other, so as to prevent relative movements/displacements and increase the stability of the package, especially during transport.

According to another aspect of the invention, the aforementioned laminar element of the first constraint element may be a disconnectable portion of a wider flap which may be coupled to a layer of containers, for example a layer of a loading unit to be palletized.

In this way, such a flap, in addition to being able to generate numerous packages that can be individually separated and picked by the user, also has the important function of constituting an element of stabilization and compacting of the layer of containers when this is stacked on other layers to form a loading unit.

According to another aspect of the invention, a packaging plant of containers is provided comprising a device for forming layers of containers, as well as a line for arranging flaps, wherein each of the flaps comprises a plurality of openings for inserting the narrow sections of respective containers, and wherein each of the openings is defined by peripheral portions.

The plant also comprises a handling device arranged to withdraw the individual flaps from the aforementioned pre-arrangement line, and to apply them on the respective layers made by the forming device, so that the peripheral portions of the openings snap engage below the annular edges of the respective containers, after the respective narrow sections have been fitted into the aforesaid openings.

According to another aspect of the invention, a method of packaging containers is also provided, comprising the steps of providing a plurality of containers, of the type comprising a narrow section provided with a raised annular edge; making a layer comprising said plurality of containers, compacted according to any configuration; providing a flap provided with a plurality of openings for fitting the narrow sections of respective containers, wherein each of these openings is defined by peripheral portions suitable for snap engaging below the annular edge of the respective container; withdrawing the flap, and placing it above the layer; pressing the flap on the layer of containers, so that the narrow sections of the containers penetrate into the openings of the flap, and so that the peripheral portions consequently snap engage below the annular edges of the containers.

The dependent claims refer to preferred and advantageous embodiments of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS.

The features of the invention will be better understood by any man skilled in the art from the following description and from the appended drawings, given by way of a non limiting example, in which:

Figure 1 is an axonometric view of a package of six containers, in particular bottles, according to the present invention;

Figure 2 is an axonometric view of a loading unit, comprising a certain number of layers of containers, according to the present invention;

Figure 3 is a plan view of a flap, according to an embodiment of the invention, from which a certain number of laminar elements may be obtained, for making respective packages of containers each comprising two rows of three units;

Figure 4 is a plan view of a single laminar element which may be obtained from the flap of Figure 3;

Figure 5 is a plan view of a flap, according to another embodiment of the invention, from which a certain number of laminar elements may be obtained, for making respective packages of containers each comprising two rows of two units;

Figure 6 is a plan view of a single laminar element which may be obtained from the flap of Figure 5;

Figure 7 is a plan view of a flap, according to a different embodiment of the invention, from which a certain number of laminar elements may be obtained, for making respective packages of containers each comprising two units;

Figure 8 is a plan view of a single laminar element which may be obtained from the flap of Figure 7 ;

Figure 9 is a plan view of a flap, according to yet another embodiment of the invention, from which a certain number of laminar elements may be obtained, for making respective packages suitable for transporting respective mixed groups of containers, comprising several numbers of units; Figure 10 is a detailed lateral view of a container, in particular a bottle, to which the package according to the invention is associated;

Figure 11 is a plan view of a flap, according to a further embodiment of the invention, from which a certain number of laminar elements may be obtained, each for making respective packages of containers each comprising two rows of three units;

Figure 12 is a plan view of a single laminar element which may be obtained from the flap of Figure 11 ;

Figure 13 is a schematic detail view of one of the cuts of each flap, in particular a single cut, for the insertion of the neck of a container, in an embodiment of the invention; Figure 14 is a schematic detailed view of one of the cuts of each flap, in particular a double perpendicular cut, for the insertion of the neck of a container, in another embodiment of the invention;

Figure 15 is a schematic detailed view of one of the cuts of each flap, in particular a cut with three lines arranged at 120°, for the insertion of the neck of a container, in yet another embodiment of the invention;

Figure 16 is a schematic detailed view of one of the cuts of each flap, in particular a double perpendicular cut with a further line at 45°, for the insertion of the neck of a container, in a further embodiment of the invention;

Figure 17 is a schematic detailed view of one of the cuts of each flap, in particular a cut with four lines arranged at 45°, for the insertion of the neck of a container, in yet another embodiment of the invention;

Figure 18 is a schematic detailed view of one of the cuts of the flap of Figure 11;

Figure 19 is an exploded axonometric view of a package of six containers, according to an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 20 is an exploded axonometric view of a package of six containers, according to another embodiment of the invention;

Figure 21 is an exploded axonometric view of a package of six containers, according to yet another embodiment of the invention;

Figure 22 is a detailed lateral view of a package of containers, in which the preload induced by the first upper constraint element causes a mutual separation of the bases of the containers themselves;

Figure 23 is a detailed lateral view of a package of containers, in which the second constraint element prevents the mutual separation of the container bases;

Figure 24 is a detailed axonometric view of a loading unit comprising a plurality of packages according to the embodiment of Figure 21;

Figure 25 is a detailed axonometric view of two packages belonging to a loading unit according to another embodiment of the invention;

Figure 26 is a partially sectioned lateral detailed view of the two packages of the loading unit according to the embodiment of Figure 25;

Figure 27 is an axonometric view of a package of six containers according to a further embodiment of the invention;

Figure 28 is an axonometric view of a package of six containers according to yet another embodiment of the invention;

Figure 29 is a front view of the package of Figure 28, as well as a front view of a single container;

Figure 30 is a front view of a package of six containers, as well as a front view of a single container, according to another embodiment of the invention;

Figure 31 is a plan view of a packaging plant for manufacturing packages of containers according to the present invention;

Figure 32 is a lateral view of a detail of the plant in Figure 31;

Figure 33 is a detail of Figure 32;

Figure 34 is a detail of Figure 31 ;

Figure 35 is a detailed view of a part of the packaging plant, according to another embodiment of the invention;

Figure 36 is a lateral view of the head for handling the flaps provided in the plant;

Figure 37 is a plan view of the same handling head;

Figure 38 is an axonometric view from above of the handling head;

Figure 39 is a further axonometric view from below of the handling head;

Figure 40 is a detail of Figure 36;

Figure 41 is a plan view of another embodiment of the packaging plant of containers according to the invention;

Figure 42 is a plan view of a further embodiment of the packaging plant of containers according to the invention;

Figure 43 is a lateral view of the plant in Figure 42;

Figure 44 is a plan view of another embodiment of the packaging plant of containers according to the invention;

Figure 45 is a lateral view of another embodiment of the packaging plant of containers according to the invention, in a packaging step;

Figure 46 is a detailed section taken according to the plane XLVI-XLVI of Figure 45; Figure 47 is a detailed lateral view of the plant of Figure 45, in a subsequent packaging step;

Figure 48 is a detailed lateral view of the plant of Figure 45, in yet a subsequent packaging step;

Figure 49 is a detailed axonometric view, with some parts removed for greater clarity, of a portion of the plant of Figure 45;

Figure 50 is a further detailed axonometric view, with some parts removed for greater clarity, of a portion of the plant of Figure 45;

Figure 51 is a plan view of another embodiment of the packaging plant of containers according to the invention, in a packaging step;

Figure 52 is a lateral view of the plant in Figure 51;

Figure 53 is a plan view of the plant of Figure 51, in a subsequent operating step;

Figure 54 is a lateral view of the plant, in the packaging step of Figure 53;

Figure 55 is a plan view of the plant of Figure 51, in yet a subsequent packaging step; Figure 56 is a lateral view of the plant, in the packaging step of Figure 55;

Figure 57 is a plan view of the plant of Figure 51, in a final packaging step;

Figure 58 is a lateral view of the plant, in the packaging step of Figure 57;

Figure 59 is a plan view of another embodiment of the packaging plant of containers according to the invention, in a packaging step;

Figure 60 is a section of the plant of Figure 59, taken along the plane LX-LX;

Figure 61 is a detailed plan view of the plant of Figure 59, in a subsequent operating step;

Figure 62 is a section of the plant of Figure 61, taken according to the plane LXII-LXII; Figure 63 is a detailed plan view of the plant of Figure 59, in a subsequent packaging step;

Figure 64 is another detailed plan view of the plant of Figure 59, in yet a subsequent packaging step;

Figure 65 is a further detailed plan view of the plant of Figure 59, in a further subsequent packaging step;

Figure 66 is yet a detailed plan view of the plant of Figure 59, in a final packaging step.

EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION.

With reference to Figure 1, reference numeral 1 generally indicates a package, according to the present invention, of a certain number of containers A, grouped according to a predetermined configuration.

Figure 2 instead represents a loading unit 10 - which also forms the subject of the present invention - comprising a plurality of packages 1 of containers A according to the present invention.

More in detail, the loading unit 10 comprises, at the base, a support 11, consisting for example of a pallet, or the like (for example made of wood).

Furthermore, the loading unit 10 comprises a series of layers 12 of packages 1 of the aforementioned containers A.

In the accompanying figures, the containers A consist of bottles, for example plastic bottles: in fact, the field of packaging of plastic bottles constitutes an application of the present invention of particular practical interest.

However, this application is only exemplary and by no means exclusive, and the containers A could be of any other type, without limitations to the scope of the present invention.

In the present description, therefore, the definition of containers A is entirely generic, and is in no way limiting.

It should be noted, however, that the technical effects of the present invention are expressed, in particular, in the context of packaging containers A of the type comprising a base D and a narrow section B (or neck) (for example opposite the base D) provided of a raised annular edge C, or a collar, or other similar element (see, in this regard, Figure 10).

The arrangement of the containers A (and therefore also of the packages 1 of containers A) within the same layer 12 may be any.

For example, the distribution of the containers A within the same layer 12 may be by parallel lines (Figure 34), or in quincunx (Figure 35), or again according to any other suitable configuration in relation to the shape and dimensions of the containers A themselves.

As illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the containers A, inside the same layer 12 (and inside the same package 1), are usually all the same; however, in some application situations, they could also be different from each other, for example of different shape and/or size. At the base of each layer 12 a support element 13 may be inserted (for example a cardboard layer, or the like), without machining, with the aim of increasing the support base of the bottoms of the containers A, and consequently increasing the stability of the entire loading unit 10 during transport; such a support element 13 may be whole (i.e., extending over the entire surface of the loading unit 10), or partial.

According to an aspect of the present invention, the package 1 comprises a first upper constraint element 14.

In turn, the first constraint element comprises a laminar element 14a.

The laminar element 14a is suitable for connecting and joining a plurality of containers A, as better explained below.

The laminar element 14a may be made of cardboard, either compressed and corrugated, or possibly also of other materials suitable for this specific use, and which therefore possess the necessary mechanical features to adequately resist the stresses due to transport or environmental ones, such as humidity and temperature, to which the loading unit 10 may be subjected from production to final destination.

The laminar element 14a comprises a plurality of openings 15, for inserting the narrow sections B of respective containers A.

In particular, each of the openings 15 of the laminar element 14a comprises respective peripheral portions 16 (see in particular Figures 13-18) which are suitable for snap engaging below the annular edge C of each container A to be packaged, once the respective narrow section B has been fitted into such an opening 15.

In this way, a coupling is obtained between the laminar element 14a and the containers A of the package 1, of the snap engagement type, or by interference, which has sufficient resistance features to allow the transport of the containers A themselves, as better clarified below.

According to another aspect of the invention, the package 1 comprises a second constraint element 14b, configured to connect the bases D of the containers A to each other and to prevent them from moving away from each other.

According to a further aspect of the invention (see in particular Figures 19-21), the mutual distance FI between the centers of the openings 15 of the laminar element 14a is less than the mutual distance F2 between the centers of the narrow sections B of the containers A grouped in the aforementioned predetermined configuration (by such distances FI, F2 meaning those measured along both directions of the sides of the laminar element 14a), so as to obtain a mechanical preload effect in inserting the narrow sections B in the respective openings 15.

In this way (as schematically illustrated in figures 22, 23), and thanks also to the effect of the second constraint element 14B which prevents the mutual separation of the containers A at the respective bases D, a sort of lever is created in which the fulcrum is the mutual contact point H of the containers A, and the force Q1 applied to each container A at the point of contact with the first constraint element 14 is substantially balanced by a resisting force applied by the second constraint element 14b at the bases D of the containers A.

This effect ultimately allows the containers A to be deformed and kept pressed against each other, so as to prevent relative movements/displacements and to increase the stability of the package.

In the most typical applications, the mutual distances FI, F2 may differ from each other by a few millimeters.

By way of example only, in an application in which the containers A consist of bottles, the mutual distance FI between the centers of the openings 15 may be 80 mm, while the mutual distance F2 between the centers of the restricted sections B may be 83 mm.

The openings 15 are defined by respective cuts 17, made in the laminar element 14a.

The cuts 17 are made in the laminar element 14a in relation to the configuration to be given to the package 1 of containers A (for example with containers A aligned in rows, or arranged in quincunxes, etc.).

The cuts 17 on the laminar element 14a may already be present, as they are made in advance, or they may be made simultaneously with the operations of picking up or depositing the laminar element 14a itself by means of suitable devices, as will be better described hereinafter.

The shape of the cuts 17 is such as to allow, at the same time, an easy insertion of the narrow sections B of the containers A, in the respective openings 15 of the laminar element 14a, without damaging the container A and the laminar element 14a, a reliable support of containers A during final handling by the consumer, as well as easy removal of containers A for final use, without the aid of special tools.

In some embodiments of the invention of particular practical interest, the cuts 17 comprise at least one straight line, or a plurality of substantially radial crossed lines, which define the aforementioned peripheral portions 16 therebetween.

According to another aspect of the invention, each laminar element 14a may be obtained starting from a flap 18.

The flap 18 may be made of cardboard, either compressed or corrugated, or of any other material suitable for this application.

The flap 18 has the function of assembling and stabilizing a plurality of containers A, in particular it has the function of assembling and stabilizing a respective layer 12 of containers A of the loading unit 10; as shown in Figure 2, the flap 18 has such dimensions that its surface substantially corresponds to the surface of each of the layers 12 of the loading unit 10 (and therefore also to that of the support element 13, if present).

More specifically, and as shown in Figures 3, 5, 7, 9, 11 the flap 18 comprises a plurality of pre-cut lines 19, which cross each other so as to define a plurality of laminar elements 14a therebetween.

Consequently, the distribution of the pre-cut lines 19 determines the dimensions of the individual laminar elements 14a.

The pre-cut lines 19 cross each other so as to define right angles therebetween; it is not excluded, however, that in certain embodiments of the invention the pre-cut lines 19 may be arranged so as to form angles of mutually different size.

The pre-cut lines 19 may be distributed so that the laminar elements 14a, thus defined, all have the same dimensions (Figures 3, 5, 7, 11), so as to obtain packages 1 comprising the same number of containers A, arranged according to the same configuration.

Alternatively (as shown, in particular, in Figure 9), the pre-cut lines 19 may be distributed so that the laminar elements 14a have different dimensions, so as to obtain packages 1 comprising different numbers of containers A, and/or arranged according to different configurations.

The pre-cut lines 19 may already be present in the flap 18, as they have been previously made, or they may be made simultaneously with the operations of picking up or depositing the flap 18 itself by special devices, as better clarified below.

According to another aspect of the invention, the pre-cut lines 19 have the function of allowing the final consumer to pick up a specific package 1 of containers A.

More in detail, thanks to the presence of the pre-cut lines 19, the final consumer may separate a specific package 1 from the others present in the same layer 12.

The weight of the other packages 1 present in the same layer 12 facilitates the removal of a specific package 1, tearing the corresponding laminar element 14a from the rest of the flap 18.

The laminar element 14a of the package 1 may be provided with lifting means 20, which allow the final consumer to grab the package 1 more easily for transporting it.

The lifting means 20 may comprise at least one slit 21, made in the laminar element 14a, which defines a respective foldable skirt 22.

By folding the skirt 22, an opening, or slot is thus obtained in the laminar element 14a, into which the consumer can insert his/her fingers (as shown in Figure 1) to grab the package 1.

The slit 21 may be rounded (for example shaped like a "C"), or it may be of any other suitable shape (for example triangular).

The slit 21 may already be present in the laminar element 14a as it has been made in advance, or it may be made at the same time as the operations of picking up or depositing the flap 18 by special devices, as explained below.

In an embodiment of the invention, two identical slits 21 are provided, to make it easier to lift the package 1.

It is also possible to use the opening, or the openings, defined by the skirt 22, or by the skirts 22, for the passage of any grip handles already provided in the containers A, individually or in groups.

In some embodiments of the invention, the flap 18, instead of being used whole, i.e. with dimensions corresponding to the dimensions of the layers 12 of the loading unit 10, may have smaller dimensions, i.e. partialized with respect to the dimensions of the layers 12.

For example, the flap 18 may have dimensions corresponding to half a pallet 11, or corresponding to a quarter of a pallet 11, or any other size selected on the basis of certain application requirements; in this way, it is possible to cover the entire surface of a layer 12 with already distinct and separate groups of packages 1.

Figures 13-18 are schematic detailed views of respective different configurations of cuts 17 which may be made in the flap 18 (and therefore in the laminar element 14a) to obtain the openings 15, in various possible embodiments of the invention.

In particular, Figure 13 shows an embodiment of the invention in which each opening 15 of the laminar element 14a (and/or of the flap 18) is defined by a single cut 17, which gives rise to two opposite specular peripheral portions 16.

Figure 14 shows another embodiment of the invention in which each opening 15 of the laminar element 14a (and/or of the flap 18) is defined by a double perpendicular cut 17, which therefore gives rise to four peripheral portions 16, two by two specular.

Figure 15 shows yet another embodiment of the invention in which each opening 15 of the laminar element 14a (and/or of the flap 18) is defined by a cut 17 shaped like a "Y" with three lines, arranged at 120° with respect to each other, which originates three peripheral portions 16.

Figure 16 shows a further embodiment of the invention in which each opening 15 of the laminar element 14a (and/or of the flap 18) is defined by a double cut 17 perpendicular with a further line 17a at 45°, which therefore originate six peripheral portions 16.

Figure 17 shows another embodiment of the invention, in which each opening 15 of the laminar element 14a (and/or of the flap 18) is defined by a cut 17 with four lines arranged at 45°, or in a radial pattern, which therefore originate eight peripheral portions 16.

As mentioned above, within the same flap 18, the pre-cut lines 19 may be distributed so as to obtain laminar elements 14a comprising different numbers of openings 15 for the containers A, or different configurations or distributions of the openings 15.

For example, Figure 3 illustrates a flap 18, according to an embodiment of the invention, from which a certain number of laminar elements 14a may be obtained, each for transporting a respective package 1 of containers A comprising two rows of three unit, as shown in the detail of Figure 4.

Figure 5 illustrates a flap 18, according to another embodiment of the invention, from which a certain number of laminar elements 14a may be obtained, each for transporting a respective package 1 of containers A comprising two rows of two units, as shown in the detail of Figure 6.

Figure 7 illustrates a flap 18, according to a further embodiment of the invention, from which a certain number of laminar elements 14a can be obtained, each for transporting a respective package 1 of containers A comprising two units, as illustrated in detail in figure 8.

Figure 9 illustrates a flap 18, according to yet another embodiment of the invention, from which a certain number of laminar elements 14a may be obtained, suitable for transporting respective mixed packages 1 of containers A, comprising different numbers of unit.

Figure 11 illustrates a flap 18 according to a further embodiment of the invention, from which a certain number of laminar elements 14a may be obtained, each for transporting a respective package 1 of containers A comprising two rows of three units, as shown in the detail of Figure 12.

In particular, in this embodiment (see Figures 12 and 18), each opening 15 of the laminar element 14a (and/or of the flap 18) is defined by a cut comprising two arcs of circumference 17b, specular but separated in the respective ends, joined centrally by a diametrical portion 17c.

Thanks to this particular conformation of the cut 17b, 17c, two specular peripheral portions 16 are obtained, substantially shaped like a "D", joined to the remaining parts of the laminar element 14a by small segments of material (segments which are defined precisely between the opposite ends of the arcs of circumference 17b).

These segments may be very small in size, to facilitate the deformation of the peripheral portions 16 since, after the snap engagement of the neck B of the container A, they are substantially stressed only by compression.

However, it should be noted that the embodiments of Figures 3-9 and 11 are purely illustrative and not limiting, since it is evident that the number and arrangement of the openings 15 for the containers A, within each layer 18 - and therefore also within each laminar element 14a - could be any, in relation to the specific needs of use.

The second constraint element 14b may comprise a sheet 2, fixed to the bases D of the containers A, grouped according to the aforementioned predetermined configuration, by means of disconnectable connection means 3.

For example, the sheet 2 may be made of cardboard, either compressed or corrugated. However, other materials may be used instead of cardboard, provided that they are suitable for the foreseen operations, and in particular that they possess the necessary resistance not to break due to the stresses caused by transport or environmental conditions (humidity, temperature, etc.) to which the package 1 may be subjected from production to final destination.

The sheet 2, preferably, has the same shape and the same dimensions as the laminar element 14a of the package 1 itself.

Also the sheet 2 of each package 1, like the laminar element 14a, may be obtained starting from a flap having pre-cut lines, so that it may be separated from the latter when the package 1 is removed.

In an embodiment of the invention, shown in Figure 19, the above disconnectable connection means 3 may comprise at least a portion or layer of gluing agent 4, applied to the sheet 2 at the bases D of the containers A.

The gluing agent used is of the type with features such as to allow the separation of the containers A from the sheet 2 by the final consumer at the time of use.

The portion or layer of gluing agent 4 may have a circular or substantially circular shape.

The embodiment of Figure 20 differs from that of Figure 19 in that the disconnectable connection means 3 comprise, for each of the containers A of the package 1, a plurality of portions or layers of gluing agent 4.

More in detail, for each of the containers A, the connection means 3 comprise a plurality of portions or layers of gluing agent 4 having a circular, or substantially circular, concentric shape.

This embodiment allows a more solid bond to be obtained between the sheet 2 and the bases D of the containers A, for example in the case of particularly bulky or heavy containers A.

The conformation/configuration of the portions or layers of gluing agent 4 may in any case be any, in relation, for example, to the conformation of the containers A and/or to the fixing quality to be obtained.

Another embodiment of the invention, shown in Figure 27, differs from the previous ones in that the second constraint element 14b comprises at least a flexible strip 5, or a strap, or a band, wrapped around the containers A, grouped according to the aforesaid predetermined arrangement, substantially at the respective bases D, so as to surround them.

The flexible strip 5, or strap, may preferably be made of plastic material.

In a further alternative embodiment of the package 1, shown in Figure 30, the second constraint element 14b may comprise bands 6, or strips, of synthetic fabric, wrapped around each of the containers A, one of which is formed by small flexible hooks which get caught by pressure into the tightly entangled thread that forms the other strip, for example Velcro®, or fastening systems with mushroom- shaped microelements, for example Dual Lock®, or the like, suitable for keeping the containers A joined to each other.

In yet another embodiment of the package 1, according to the invention, shown in Figures 28, 29, projections and recesses 7 are provided along the lateral surfaces of the containers A, which provide mutual engagement when more identical containers A are approached to each other.

The projections and recesses 7 are provided at the base D, and possibly also at the median portion, of each of the containers A, and may comprise, for example, a threaded part, i.e. a threaded projection of triangular or trapezoidal section, or the like, which is wound helically by at least a certain stretch of the lateral surface of the containers A. Thanks to this helical pattern, the surfaces of the containers A intended to be in mutual contact interpenetrate, achieving a mutual engagement.

In this embodiment, it is provided that the package 1 comprises a second constraint element 14b, to avoid mutual separation between the containers A, of the type described for any of the other embodiments of the present invention.

In another embodiment of the present invention (not illustrated), the second constraint element 14b of the package 1 may comprise portions or layers of a gluing agent, applied along the lateral surfaces of the containers A, which keep them joined; the gluing agent used has features such as to allow the detachment of the containers A by the final consumer at the time of use.

In other embodiments of the present invention, the second constraint element 14b of the package 1 could be absent.

For example, this could be possible if the weight and/or the shape of the containers A allow obtaining in any case the result shown in Figure 23, i.e. an effective balancing of the force Ql, without using additional elements.

In still other embodiments of the present invention, the second constraint element 14b of the package 1 could be absent, and furthermore the pre-loading condition implemented in the coupling between the containers A and the first constraint element 14 could also be absent (i.e. that which, in the other embodiments, is obtained following the insertion of the narrow sections B in the respective openings 15); this may be effective and/or advisable in containers A of smaller dimensions and weight.

In practical use, as shown in the schematic detail of Figure 10, the narrow section B of each container A is inserted into a respective opening 15 of the laminar element 14a (or of the flap 18), so that the collar C also passes completely through the aforementioned opening 15.

In this way, the peripheral portions 16 of the same opening 15, deformed and separated by the passage of the narrow section B and of the collar C, are engaged below the collar C itself, thanks to the elasticity of the material which tends to bring them back to the initial position.

In this way, the laminar element 14a may support each container A of the package 1, which may therefore be transported by grasping the laminar element 14a itself (for example through the lifting means 20, if provided), after separating the laminar element 14a from the respective flap 18.

This method of coupling between the laminar element 14a and the containers A allows, at the same time, easily extracting the narrow section B of each container A from the respective opening 15, exerting adequate traction in the opposite direction to that of insertion.

The coupling between the flap 18 and the containers A of the same layer 12 also allows obtaining an effective stabilization of the layer 12 inside the loading unit 10, so as to considerably limit the possibility of accidental movements.

Furthermore, the mechanical pre-load obtained in the insertion of the narrow sections B of the containers A in the respective openings 15, is counterbalanced by the effect given by the second constraint element 14b, so that, ultimately, the containers A belonging to the same package 1 are kept stably in mutual contact, avoiding displacements and increasing stability.

With reference to Figures 21, 24, the present invention also relates to a loading unit 10, comprising a plurality of superimposed layers 12 of containers A.

More in detail, the loading unit 10 comprises a support 11, such as a pallet or the like, on which a plurality of layers 12 each comprising a plurality of containers A are positioned in an orderly manner on top of each other, grouped according to a predetermined arrangement.

As clarified above, each of the containers A is of the type comprising a base D and, at the top F, a narrow section B provided with an annular edge C.

The loading unit 10 comprises, for each of the layers 12 of containers A, a respective stabilizing flap 18, comprising, in turn, a plurality of openings 15 for fitting the narrow sections B of respective containers A.

Each of the openings 15 is defined by respective peripheral portions 16 suitable for snap engaging below the annular edge C of the respective container A, after the respective narrow section B has been fitted into the opening 15.

Furthermore, the aforementioned flap 18 comprises a plurality of pre-cut lines 19, which intersect so as to define, between them, a plurality of laminar elements 14a, each provided with a certain number of openings 15 for fitting respective containers A.

Each of the laminar elements 14a may be separated from the flap 18 along the pre-cut lines 19, so as to allow the removal of a group of containers A, joined and grouped by the aforesaid laminar element 14a.

According to an aspect of the invention, the loading unit 10 comprises, for each of the layers 12 of containers A, a lower constraint element 14b, interposed between two consecutive layers 12.

The upper surface, in use, 14c of the lower constraint element 14b, intended to contact the lower surfaces of the containers A of the overlying layer 12, is configured to prevent the mutual separation of the bases D of the containers A of the overlying layer 12 with respect to the underlying layer 12.

As described above, also in this case the mutual distance FI between the centers of the openings 15 of the laminar element 14a is smaller than the mutual distance F2 between the centers of the narrow sections B of the containers A, so as to obtain a mechanical pre-load effect when inserting the narrow sections B into the respective openings 15. Figure 21 shows the detail of a single package 1 of containers A which constitutes the aforementioned loading unit 10.

The package 1 comprises an upper constraint element 14, of the type described above, and a lower constraint element 14b, which does not remain permanently fixed/connected to the bases D of the containers A, when the aforementioned package 1 is picked up by the final consumer, but it rests on the layer 12 immediately below.

The lower constraint element 14b may have the same shape and dimensions as the laminar element 14a of the package 1 to which it belongs, as shown in Figure 21. Alternatively, as shown instead in the embodiment of Figure 24, the lower constraint element 14b may have the same shape and dimensions as the flap 18 of the same layer 12 of the loading unit 10.

According to another aspect of the invention, the upper surface 14c of the lower constraint element 14b comprises a distribution of embossed portions 14d, made of rubber, or other material of similar properties, arranged to prevent the mutual distancing of the containers A belonging to the above layer 12.

The second constraint element 14b may be made in the form of a laminar element, a sheet, or the like; important features that it must possess are flexibility, lightness, and resistance to tearing or abrasion.

With reference to Figures 25, 26, a further object of the present invention is a loading unit 10, comprising a plurality of superimposed layers 12 of containers A, which differs from that of Figures 21, 24 in the following features.

In this version of the loading unit 10, the lower constraint element 14b comprises a flat element, provided with cuts at the centers of the bases D of the containers A. Furthermore, the lower constraint element 14b comprises, for each of the containers A of each layer 12, a seat E, provided at the base D of the container A itself, arranged to accommodate at its interior the top F of the container A belonging to the layer 12 immediately below, to prevent the mutual separation of the bases D of the containers A. The top F of each container A may be inserted into the seat E of the container A immediately above it through the corresponding cut provided in the aforementioned flat element.

In an embodiment of particular practical interest, such a flat element may consist of the flap 18 of the layer 12 of containers A immediately below.

Furthermore, in this embodiment of the loading unit 10, each of the containers A preferably consists of a bottle, the top F whereof comprises a cap T which may be inserted in the aforementioned seat E of the container A belonging to the layer 12 of containers A immediately above.

Also in this version of the loading unit, the mutual distance FI between the centers of the openings 15 of the laminar element 14a is smaller than the mutual distance F2 between the centers of the narrow sections B of the containers A, so as to obtain a mechanical pre-load effect when inserting the narrow sections B into the respective openings 15.

The present invention also relates to a plant 30 for packaging containers A.

The containers A are of the type described above.

The plant 30 according to the invention allows, in particular, the result shown schematically in Figure 2 to be obtained, that is the positioning of a layer 18, or in any case of one or more first constraint elements 14, on a layer 12 of containers A, so that the narrow sections B of the latter snap engage in the openings 15 of the flap 18 itself, or of the one or more first constraint elements 14.

The layer 12 of containers, as it is understood in the present description, may be a complete or partial layer, and therefore may comprise a plurality of packages 1 (groupings) of containers A, or even a single package 1 of containers A (what therefore varies is the total number of containers A included in a single layer 12).

Furthermore, in the continuation of the description, each time reference is made to a layer 18, it will be understood, in the same way, and for simplicity, one or more first constraint elements 14, possibly combined together, in relation to the number of containers A and/or packages 1 of containers A included in the same layer 12.

In other words, the same layer 12 may comprise, according to the cases and requirements, a number of containers A corresponding to a single package 1, or to a certain number of packages 1.

Again according to the requirements, an entire flap 18 may be applied to a given layer 12, or a plurality of first constraint elements 14, possibly separated from each other and combined in various ways, or even a single first constraint element 14, in the case of a layer 12 actually consisting of a single package 1 of containers A. According to the invention, and as previously described, in the layer 12 or in the single package 1 obtained, the mutual distance FI between the centers of the openings 15 of the flap 18, or of the at least one first constraint element 14, is less than the mutual distance F2 between the centers of the narrow sections B of the containers A grouped in the predetermined arrangement, so as to obtain a mechanical pre-load effect when inserting the narrow sections B into the openings 15.

The layer 12 of containers A, with the respective layer 18 associated therewith, may then be sent to subsequent packaging stations; typically (although not exclusively), this layer 12 is sent to a palletizing device, or the like, which forms a loading unit 10 such as the one shown, in fact, in Figure 2, which comprises a plurality of said superimposed layers 12 supported by a pallet 11.

With reference to Figures 31, 32, and according to an aspect of the invention, the plant 30 comprises a device 40 for forming layers 12 of containers A.

The device 40 for forming the layers 12 comprises, in turn, a transport line 41 for the containers A with which the layers 12 will be made.

The transport line 41 comprises a collection area 42 for the containers A, in which the containers A themselves arrive substantially in bulk.

The collection area 42 ends with a stirring device 43 and, downstream thereof, a plurality of parallel channels 44 are provided, along which the containers A advance in respective ordered rows.

The channels 44 are delimited by suitable parallel guides 45.

The stirring device 43 imparts a certain transverse movement to the containers A, to prevent them from getting stuck at the inlets of the channels 44.

At the end of the channels 44 there is a first stop element 46, selectively movable in the vertical direction, and transversal to the direction of advancement of the containers A. The first stop element 46 allows compacting the rows of containers A, which will make up a determined layer 12, along the direction of advancement.

Furthermore, in order to obtain the desired configuration of the layer 12 in terms of the number of containers A for each row, a pad 47 is provided downstream of the stirring device 43 which, by pressing on the top of the containers A which enter the channels 44, prevents the advancement thereof, thus isolating the rows of containers A that have already passed through.

To avoid sliding between the bottoms of the containers A and the means of transport (for example a belt, a modular chain, or the like), the containers A themselves pass over a stationary plate 48, above which the pad 47 operates.

Downstream of the first stop element 46, with reference to the direction of advancement of the containers A, a further configuration station 49 of each layer 12 is provided, delimited by a second stop element 50, and in which the guides 45 delimiting the channels 44 are also provided.

The second stop element 50 is also selectively movable vertically, and is arranged transversely with respect to the direction of advancement of the containers A.

In this further configuration station 49 it is possible to obtain, for example, particular configurations of the layer 12 of containers A.

This configuration station 49 is illustrated in detail in Figure 32: in this case, a layer 12 of containers A passes through station 49, arranged in normal, perfectly aligned rows. Alternatively, and in another embodiment of the invention (illustrated in detail in Figure 35), the configuration of the containers A inside the layer 12 may be, for example, quincunx.

To obtain the aforementioned quincunx configuration, the second stop element 50 of the configuration station 49 may comprise shims 51 or abutments, provided at alternate rows, which stop the containers A of such rows in offset positions, with respect to the remaining rows, with reference to the direction of advancement, thus obtaining the desired quincunx configuration.

Downstream of the configuration station 49 of the layer 12, an area 52 for applying the flap 18 to the layer 12 itself is provided.

This application area 52 comprises a third stop element 53, transversal to the direction of advancement of the containers A.

Furthermore, this application area 52 comprises movable lateral compaction sides 54, which provide to reciprocally approach the containers A in the configuration of minimum bulk, and also of maximum stability, of the layer 12. According to another aspect of the invention, the plant 30 comprises a pre-arrangement line 60 of the layers 18 to be positioned on the layers 12 prepared by the forming device 40.

The pre-arrangement line 60 produces the flaps 18 in relation to the features of the layers 12, and in relation to their specific configuration, which obviously can vary as the production batches vary.

In other words, the pre-arrangement line 60, starting from semi-finished products (for example sheets M, or even a reel N from which these sheets M are obtained, as will be clarified later), creates the openings 15, the pre-cut lines 19 and the slits 21 in the aforementioned sheets M, so as to obtain the flaps 18 with the desired features, in accordance with the configuration of the layers 12 on which they are to be applied. According to yet another aspect of the invention, the plant comprises a handling device 70.

The handling device 70 is arranged to withdraw the individual flaps 18 from the pre arrangement line 60, to then apply them on the respective layers 12 made by the forming device 40.

The pre-arrangement line 60 of the flaps 18 comprises an inlet area 61 for the sheets M, downstream of which there is a station 62 for preparing a stack of sheets M; in this preparation station 62, lateral compaction means 63 may be provided, which ensure that the sheets M are correctly stacked in a reference position, from which they must be picked up one by one.

The pre-arrangement line 60 also comprises a device 64 for picking up the sheets M from the preparation station 62.

Downstream of the preparation station 62, the pre-arrangement line 60 comprises a conveyor 65 for the sheets M, and a cutting device 66.

Along the conveyor 65, the sheets M positioned by the picking device 64 advance one after the other.

The picking device 64 may comprise, for example, a robotic arm 67, whose operating end is associated with a head 68 provided, for example, with gripping means of the suction type, or the like. In one embodiment of the invention, the cutting device 66 may be of the laser type.

The cutting device 66 makes, in each sheet M, the cuts 17 which define the openings 15, as well as the pre-cut lines 19 and the slits 21, to obtain the flap 18.

Downstream of the cutting device 66, there is an outlet area 69 of the flaps 18, ready to be associated with the respective layers 12 of containers A.

Also in the outlet area 69 there may be provided some movable lateral sides 69a, which allow the flap 18 to be arranged in the correct position for the subsequent picking up by the handling device 70.

The handling device 70 may comprise a robot 71, or other device of a different type. If the handling device 70 comprises a robot 71, the latter may consist, for example, of an anthropomorphic robotic arm, or a Cartesian robot, or of another type, without particular limitations.

The handling device 70 also comprises a head 72 for handling the flaps 18, which - according to another aspect of the invention - is configured in such a way as to pick up the flaps 18 from the pre-arrangement line 60 (in particular from the outlet area 69 thereof), and also so as to position them on a respective layer 12 of containers A which is waiting in the application area 52 (in Figure 32, the same handling head 72 is shown both in a generic position in which it is associated with the robot 71, and in the position of application of the flap 18 on the layer 12).

As will be seen, the technical solution adopted for the handling head 72 allows both of the above tasks to be performed.

The handling head 72 is shown in Figures 36-40.

The handling head 72 comprises a support structure 73, provided with a connection portion 74 at the operating end of the handling device 70.

The handling head 72 comprises a plurality of pressure members 75, configured to carry out the insertion of the narrow sections B of the containers A of the layer 12 into the respective openings 15 of the flap 18.

The support structure 73 is arranged to support the aforementioned pressure members 75 substantially arranged according to a matrix, which corresponds to the position of the openings 15 in the flap 18 (and therefore to the position of the narrow sections B of the containers A inside the layer 12).

The support structure 73 therefore has an essentially square or rectangular configuration, provided with a peripheral frame 76 which has the function of supporting the aforementioned pressure members 75.

More in detail, the handling head 72 comprises a plurality of first beams 77, parallel to each other, and second beams 78, parallel to each other and perpendicular to the first beams 77.

The first beams 77 and the second beams 78 are supported, by the peripheral frame 76, on different levels.

Observing the handling head 72 from above (Figure 37), a respective pressure member 75 is provided at each crossing point between the first beams 77 and the second beams 78.

Each pressure member 75 is mounted on a respective support 79, which is slidably coupled to a respective first beam 77 and to a respective second beam 78, in the crossing area between the latter.

In this way the position of each support 79, carrying the respective pressure member 75, may be modified in relation to the different configurations of the layer 12 and of the flap 18, so as to adapt the handling head 72 to the different production formats.

The position of each pressure member 75 may be modified manually or in an automated manner, by providing suitable actuation systems.

Such actuation systems may comprise, for example, linear, electric or pneumatic actuators of each of the beams 77, 78 with respect to the peripheral frame 76, and also devices for locking/unlocking each of the beams 77, 78 in the respective operating positions determined in relation to the configuration of the production format.

According to another aspect of the invention (see in particular Figures 39, 40), each pressure member 75 comprises a bushing 80, associated with the respective support 79, and a cup element 81, inserted in the bushing 80 and sliding with respect to this latter. The cavity of the cup member 81, in use, faces downwards.

The coupling between the cup element 81 and the bushing 80 is such that the cup element 81 itself cannot come off the bush 80. An elastic member 82 (for example a cylindrical helical spring) is interposed between the cup element 81 and the bushing 80, which, in particular, abuts on an edge 83 of the cup element 81; the elastic member 82 exerts an action which tends to keep the cup element 81 in an extended position with respect to the bushing 80.

The possibility of reciprocal movement between the cup element 81 and the bushing 80 allows the cup 81 itself to perform its function even in the presence of differences in the heights of the containers A in the layer (for example due to constructive tolerances of the containers A), or in the event that the plane on which the containers A are located and that on which the pressure elements 75 are located are not perfectly planar and/or parallel to each other (for example due to construction and/or assembly tolerances). According to a further aspect of the invention, the handling head 72 comprises means 84 for gripping the flaps 18 from the outlet area 69 of the pre- arrangement line 60.

The gripping means 84 may be of the vacuum type.

More in detail, the gripping means 84 may comprise a certain number of suction cups 85, associated with the support structure 73.

In the specific embodiment of the invention illustrated in the figures, the gripping means 84 comprise four suction cups 85, for example arranged along the vertices of a square or a rectangle.

The suction cups 85 are connected to suitable vacuum generation means, not shown in the Figures.

The suction cups 85 are associated with the support structure 73 in a retractable manner (actively or passively).

More particularly, the suction cups 85 are movable, with respect to the support structure 73, between a retracted position and an extended position (illustrated in detail in Figure 40).

In other words, as better clarified below, in a certain working step of the handling head 72, the suction cups 85, normally in an extended and protruding position with respect to the cup elements 81, retract towards the support structure 73 inside the encumbrance of the cup elements 81, so as not to interfere with the latter.

When the suction cups 85 are in an extended position, they allow a flap 18 (illustrated as a discontinuous line in Figure 40) to be picked up from the outlet area 69.

From the point of view of the layout of the plant 30, the pre- arrangement line 60 of the flaps 18, and the device for forming the layers 40 may be arranged side by side, as shown in Figure 31, and the handling device 70 may be interposed between them, so that in the space of action of the latter there are both the outlet area 69 of the pre arrangement line 60 of the flaps 18, and the application area 52 of the device for forming the layers 40.

In an embodiment of the invention, the flaps 18 may arrive in the plant 30 already previously prepared (for example, in another part of the production plant), and therefore not cut, each time, inside the plant 30 itself.

In this case, the pre- arrangement line 60 may be replaced by a simple feed/transport line for the already arranged flaps 18.

Alternatively, the same pre-arrangement line 60 may be modified so as to exclude the cutting device 66.

The operation of the plant 30 is therefore as follows.

The containers A to be packaged arrive in bulk in the collection area 42, and continue inside the channels 44, so as to form ordered rows.

The group of containers A which will form a layer 12, isolated from the rest of the incoming flow, then passes through the configuration station 49, where the containers A are arranged in the desired manner (for example aligned, or in quincunx, or others).

A correctly configured layer 12 of containers A is thus obtained, which then proceeds towards the application area 52 of the respective flap 18.

At the same time, the flap 18 which must be coupled to this layer 12 is prepared in the pre-arrangement line 60 (or it arrives already previously prepared inside the plant 30). More in detail - in the event that the flaps 18 are arranged inside the plant 30 - a sheet M (assuming that it is initially completely devoid of any processing or cutting) is introduced into the cutting device 66, where the cuts 17, pre-cut lines 19 and slits 21 are made.

The ready flap 18, coming out of the cutting device 66 (if present), is now picked up by the handling device 70, in particular by the gripping means 84 of the handling head 72. The handling device 70 then positions the flap 18 above the application area 52, and then carries out a descent movement towards the layer 12 of containers A.

At this point, what is illustrated in Figure 33 occurs, that is, due to the downward movement of the handling head 72, approaching the layer 12, the narrow sections B of the containers A enter the openings 15 of the flap 18.

The flap 18 is then wedged under the annular edges C of the containers A, and this operation is performed, in particular, by the pressure members 75, precisely by the action of the aforementioned downward movement of the handling head 72, approaching the layer 12.

In this way, the containers A belonging to the layer 12 are mutually joined and stabilized.

The layer 12 may then be transferred, for example, to a palletizing device, or the like. Figure 41 relates to another embodiment of the plant 30 according to the present invention.

The plant 30 of Figure 41 differs from that of Figures 31, 32 in the type of cutting device 66 used.

In this embodiment, the cutting device 66 comprises a cutting head 90, which may be, for example, associated with a robotic arm 91, of any type.

The cutting device 66 may also comprise a matrix 92, or counterhead, provided along the pre- arrangement line 60, on which a sheet M is placed, and which supports the latter during the execution of the cuts 17, of the pre-cut lines 19 and of the slits 21 by the cutting head 90.

The cutting head 90 comprises knives 93, the position whereof inside the head 90 may be fixed or adjustable, so as to adapt to the different production formats.

The position of the knives 93 may be adjusted manually, or even in an automated manner.

If the position of the knives 93 is fixed, it is possible to provide, in the plant, a replacement area 94 of the cutting head 90.

In other words, cutting heads 90 of different sizes, interchangeable in relation to the different production needs, may be housed in the replacement area 94. In an embodiment of the invention, the cutting head 90 may be incorporated into the handling head 72, so that the same handling device 70 may carry out both the steps of preparing the flaps 18 and their application on the layers 12 of containers A.

Another embodiment of the plant 30 according to the invention is illustrated in Figures 42, 43.

The embodiment of Figures 42, 43 differs from the embodiment of Figures 31, 32 in that the pre-arrangement line 60 of the flaps 18 comprises a material feeding device, from which the individual sheets M are obtained, starting from a reel N.

The pre- arrangement line 60 therefore comprises, in this case, an unwinding device 95 of a continuous web P from a reel N (for example of cardboard).

Downstream of the unwinding device 95 there is a cutting-to-size system which generates the single sheets M, which then continue towards the cutting device 66 for the completion of the flaps 18.

This cutting-to-size system may be of any type suitable for this type of application. Alternatively, the cutting of the single sheets M may be carried out directly by the cutting device 66.

Another embodiment of the plant 30 according to the invention is illustrated in Figure 44.

This embodiment essentially constitutes a combination of the features of the embodiments of Figures 41, 42, 43.

In particular, the cutting device 66 is the same as described for the embodiment of Figure 41, while the pre- arrangement line 60 of the flaps 18 comprises an unwinding device 95 of a continuous web P from a reel N, as in the embodiment of Figures 42, 43. As can be seen, the individual groups of the plant 30 may be combined in various ways, obtaining the same results in any case.

According to further embodiments of the invention, all the versions of the plant 30 previously described may be further provided with a device 96 for applying an identification element on each laminar element 14a of each of the flaps 18.

The device for applying the identification element 96 is represented as a discontinuous line, and in a completely schematic manner, in Figures 31, 41, 42, 43, 44. The identification element applied by the device 96 may comprise (or may consist of) a barcode, or the like.

This identifying element is therefore uniquely associated with a specific package 1 of containers A (and may be different from the single barcodes of containers A, which may often be sold individually).

The application of the identification element may be made after the cutting operations of the flap 18, and in any case before the transfer towards the area of the layers 12 of containers A.

The device for applying the identification element 96 may be of various types.

For example, this device 96 may be of the type suitable for applying an adhesive label comprising the identification element.

Alternatively, the device 96 may be of the type suitable for carrying out ink jet printing of the identification element.

In an embodiment of the invention, the device 96 may consist of the cutting device 66 itself, if the latter is of the laser type.

In fact, in the latter case, the member performing the laser cutting could be used to directly engrave the identifying element.

Further embodiments of the packaging plant 30 according to the invention are illustrated in Figures 45-66.

In these Figures, for the sake of simplicity, the pre-arrangement line 60 is omitted, since it is the same as the previous embodiments.

In these embodiments, the layer formation device 40 comprises an application device 100 of a second constraint element 14b, arranged to connect the bases D, or the side surfaces, of the containers A to each other, and to prevent the mutual distancing of the same.

An embodiment of the packaging plant 30 according to the invention is illustrated in Figures 45-50.

In particular, this embodiment of the plant 30 allows obtaining the packages 1 according to the previously described embodiments of Figures 19, 20, 21.

In this embodiment, the application device 100 comprises a device 101 for feeding lower flaps 102, from which lower constraint elements 14b such as those of the embodiments of Figures 19, 20, 21 (and therefore also of Figure 24).

More in detail, the feeding device 101 comprises an inclined conveyor 103, which feeds the lower flaps 102 at the third stop element 53.

The inclined conveyor 103 inserts a lower flap 102 under each layer 12 of containers A; in particular, as can be seen in Figure 49, the initial edge of the lower flap 102, which advances on the inclined conveyor 103, is inserted below the first row of containers A of the respective layer 12, so that the advancement of the layer 12 of containers A itself drags with it, by friction, the aforementioned lower flap 102.

The feeding device 101 further comprises a lower conveyor 104, which feeds the lower flaps 102 to the inclined conveyor 103.

According to another aspect of the invention, the feeding device 101 may comprise a device 105 for distributing portions or layers of gluing agent 4 on the lower flap 102, to obtain, in particular, a packaging according to the embodiments illustrated in Figures 19, 20 described above.

The distribution device 105 comprises a tank 106 of gluing agent 4.

The tank 106 is supported in proximity to the inclined conveyor 103; the distribution device 105 also comprises a plurality of nozzles 107 for dispensing the gluing agent 4, communicating with the tank 106.

The nozzles 107 are associated with a support 108, arranged transversely with respect to the direction of advancement of the containers A, and also to the direction of advancement of the lower flaps 102.

The distribution device 105 of the gluing agent 4 may also comprise means for translating the support 108 with respect to the inclined conveyor 103.

For example, the support 108 may be translated in a direction perpendicular to the direction of advancement of the lower flaps 102 on the inclined conveyor 103.

The translation of the support 108 with respect to the direction of advancement of the lower flaps 102 allows applying, on the latter, portions of gluing agent 4 such as those illustrated in Figures 49, 50, i.e. oriented, precisely, parallel to the direction of advancement of the lower flaps 102. The individual nozzles 107 may be adjustable transversely with respect to the direction of advancement of the lower flaps 102, so as to be able to apply portions or layers of gluing agent 4 at the most suitable positions of the bottoms of the containers A, according to the dimensions of each container A.

More generally, the support 108 may be translated/moved, with respect to the inclined conveyor 103, according to any other method, so as to obtain portions of gluing agent 4 of the desired shapes and sizes.

The feeding device 101 may comprise axes 109 for dragging the lower flaps 102, provided downstream of the inclined conveyor 103.

The axes 109 may in turn comprise discs 109a, with a larger diameter, which are positioned so as to drag the lower flaps 102, by friction, at areas thereof which are not affected by the layers or portions of gluing agent 4 (see for example Figure 50). According to another aspect of the invention, the plant of Figures 45-50 comprises, unlike that illustrated in figures 31, 32, a device 110 for inserting the flaps 18, or in any case one or more first constraint elements 14, above the layers 12 of containers A.

More in detail, the insertion device 110 is configured to exert, on the flaps 18 previously applied on the layers 12 by the handling head 72, or on the first constraint elements 14, the pressure necessary to obtain the snap engagement of the flap 18 itself below the annular edges C of the containers A.

The insertion device 110 is provided, along the conveyor line 41 of the formation device 40 of layers 12, downstream of the application area 52 of the flaps 18.

As shown in the operating sequence of Figures 47, 48, each layer 12 of containers A, on which a flap 18 has been applied, continues towards the insertion device 110, which facilitates the snap engagement of the flap 18, below the annular edges C of the containers A, so as to obtain the desired pre-load which helps to eliminate - also with the aid of the second constraint element 14b - the instability of the individual packages 1 during their transport.

The insertion device 110 comprises a plurality of buttresses 111, sustained by supports 112 above the transit zone of the layers 12, downstream of the application area 52 of the flap 18, or of the first constraint elements 14. The buttresses 111 are shaped in such a way as to fit between the tops F of the containers A of each layer 12, during their transit below the insertion device 110: this allows exerting the necessary pressure directly on the surface of the flap 18, in order to determine the correct positioning of the latter, with the necessary pre-load.

For example, each buttress 111 has an elongated and curved shape; the curvature thereof is such that its height relative to the plane whereon the layers 12 of packages A advance is progressively decreasing in the direction of advancement of the same layers 12.

The lower face of each of the buttresses 111 therefore constitutes a sort of cam surface which, in a progressive and non-impulsive manner, presses on the upper surface of the flap 18, to obtain the engagement thereof below the annular edges C of the containers A.

The buttresses 111 may also be configured and shaped to press also on the lateral surfaces of the containers A, so as to facilitate the mutual approach thereof, to obtain the engagement of the flap 18 below the annular edges C.

The embodiment of the plant 30 illustrated in Figures 51-58 allows obtaining the packages 1 according to the previously described embodiment of Figure 27, in the case in which the second constraint element 14b comprises a strap 5, wrapped around to the containers A, substantially at the respective bases D.

In this embodiment, the application device 100 comprises a strapping device 120 of the layers 12 of packages 1, or portions of layers 12, or of the individual packages 1 of containers A.

In other words, the strapping device 120 may be configured both to apply a strap 5 around an entire layer 12, and to apply a strap 5 to a specific group of packages 1 (for example, even just two packages 1) or to each of the packages 1, one by one.

The strapping device 120 is provided, along the conveyor line 41, upstream of the application area 52 of the flaps 18 above the layers 12 of packages 1, or above the individual packages 1 of containers A.

The strapping device 120 comprises a strapping carriage 121, sliding along a respective support structure 122, installed along the conveyor line 41.

Also in this embodiment, the formation device 40 of layers 12 comprises the device 110 for inserting the flaps 18, described with regard to the previous embodiment.

As shown in the operating sequence of Figures 51-54, the single layer 12, either complete or partial, after having been formed according to the desired arrangement, or the single package 1, arrives inside the strapping device 120.

The strapping carriage 121 descends to the height of the bases D of the containers A, and applies the strap 5 around the layer 12, either complete or partial, or around the single package 1 of containers A (Figures 53, 54).

Subsequently, the strapping carriage 121 goes up again to the inactive position, and prepares for the next layer 12 which arrives.

Subsequently (Figures 55, 56) the handling head 72 applies the flap 18 on the layer 12 (either complete or partial, or on the single package 1), in the way already described for the previous embodiments.

Following the application of the flap 18 (Figures 57, 58), the layer 12 (either complete or partial, or the single package 1) continues towards the insertion device 110, which operates in the manner previously described.

In particular, Figure 57 shows the conformation and arrangement of the buttresses 111, parallel to each other, configured to fit between the tops F of the containers A, so as to exert the necessary pressure on the surface of the flap 18, and on the lateral surfaces of the containers A.

The plant 30 according to the embodiment of Figures 59-66 allows obtaining the packages 1 according to the previously described embodiment of Figure 27, in the case in which the second constraint element 14b comprises a strip 5, wrapped around to the containers A, substantially at the respective bases D.

For example, the strip 5 may be made of polyethylene, or other suitable material; the strip 5 may have, for example, a height of 50 mm.

In this embodiment, the application device 100 comprises a device 130 for wrapping the layers 12 of packages 1, either complete or partial, or of the individual packages 1 of containers A.

The wrapping device 130 is provided, along the conveyor line 41, upstream of the application area 52 of the flaps 18 above the layers 12 of packages 1, or above the individual packages 1 of containers A.

The wrapping device 130 comprises, in more detail, two unwinding members 131, which support two respective reels 132 of the material necessary to obtain the strip 5. The two unwinding members 131 are positioned, opposite each other, on the sides of the transport line 41 of the forming device 40.

Each of the unwinding members 131 is associated with a respective telescopic arm 133. Each telescopic arm 133 is movable from a respective inactive position (Figures 59, 60), to a respective extended position (Figures 61, 62), in which it intercepts the advancement path of the layers 12 (either complete or partial) or of the individual packages 1 of containers A, carrying with them a respective free end, or terminal flap, of the material of the respective reel 132.

Each telescopic arm 133 comprises a respective welding end head 134.

The welding end heads 134 of the telescopic arms 133 are configured to implement the mutual connection of the free ends, or end flaps, of the material of the reels 132; the welding end heads 134 are also configured to allow free sliding of the materials of the reels 132, when required.

In operation, each layer 12 (either complete or partial, or single package 1), previously formed (Figures 59, 60) reaches the proximity of the wrapping device 130; the telescopic arms 133, carrying the respective free ends, or end flaps, of the materials of the reels 132, are controlled to move into their respective extended positions, until the respective welding end heads 134 are in mutual contact.

By means of the aforementioned welding end heads 134, the two end flaps are joined together, and a continuous strip 5 is thus obtained which intercepts, in a transverse direction, the advancement path of the layer 12 (either complete or partial) or of the single package 1, see in particular Figure 62.

The telescopic arms 133 are again brought into their respective inactive positions, to allow the passage of the layer 12.

The layer 12, which then advances along the conveyor line 41, carries with it the strip 5 which, unwinding from the two reels 132, progressively wraps it along the side edges (Figure 63). Once the wrapping of the strip 5 along the side edges of the layer 12 has been completed, the latter is stopped again (Figure 64); the telescopic arms 133 therefore return to their respective extended positions, so that the respective welding end heads 134 make the permanent connection between the two materials of the reels 132, at the rear side of the layer 12.

Once the permanent connection of the two materials of the reels 132 has been made, the wrapping strip 5 of the layer 12 is then completed; cutting means, provided for example in the same welding end heads 134, or elsewhere in the device, cut the end flaps of the strip 5, so as to separate the layer 12, just wrapped, from the materials of the two reels 132.

In this way, the wrapping device 130 is ready to operate on the immediately following layer 12.

The wrapped layer 12, on the other hand (Figures 55, 56) continues towards the application area 52 of the flap 18 - through the handling head 72 - and towards the insertion device 110, to obtain the correct engagement of the flap 18 below the annular edges C of containers A.

The present invention also relates to a method 30 for packaging containers A.

The containers A are of the type described above.

The method comprises a step of providing a plurality of containers A, of the type comprising a narrow section B (or neck), provided with a raised annular edge C, or a collar, or other similar element.

The method further comprises a step of making a layer 12 comprising the aforementioned plurality of containers A, compacted according to any configuration (for example aligned or quincunx).

The method also comprises a step of providing a flap 18 provided with a plurality of openings 15 for the insertion of the narrow sections B of respective containers A, wherein each of the openings 15 is defined by peripheral portions 16 suitable for snap engagement below the annular edge C of the respective container A to be packaged, and wherein the flap 18 is provided with a plurality of pre-cut lines 19 which define single removable portions, corresponding to single packages 2 of containers A. The flap 18 is also provided with slits 21, which define the openings or slots for grabbing the package 2, as previously described.

The method further comprises a step of picking up such a layer 18, and positioning it above the layer 12.

Thereafter, a step is provided for pressing the flap 18 onto the layer 12 so that the narrow sections B penetrate into the openings 15 of the flap 18, and so that the peripheral portions 16 consequently snap engage below the annular edges C of the various containers A.

Some of the main advantages deriving from the solution according to the invention are listed below.

There is no longer any need for any type of packaging machine, such as bundle packers, case packers, tray packers or casing machines, with related costs and dimensions, and no conveyors are required for the packages from the aforementioned machines to the palletizer.

There is no longer any energy consumption for the management of packaging machines and conveyors (in particular, in the case of heat-bundling machines, consumption is very high and preponderant with respect to the total consumption of the production line).

The implementation of loading units with products of different types, that is the so- called multi-flavor, or even layers of containers with products of different types, becomes extremely simple, since some packaging machines have been eliminated, and is also more flexible, since the system allows the combination of containers of different types without restrictions.

The individual packages obtainable from the flap are easily transportable and handled by the final consumer.

Last but not least, the individual packages may be printed/decorated for commercial and/or marketing needs.

Several changes and variations may be made to the invention thus conceived, all falling within the scope of the inventive concept.

Moreover, all of the details may be replaced by other technically equivalent elements. In practicing the invention, the materials used as well as the contingent size and shapes may be any according to the requirements, provided that they are compatible with the intended use, without departing from the scope of protection of the following claims.