EP0510159A1 - Method, machine and assembly for packing a load provided with at least one edge-protecting corner piece, and device for grasping, moving, depositing and holding said corner piece. - Google Patents

Abstract

A method of wrapping a load of generally prismatic and more especially parallelepipedal shape in which at least one rigid protective angle (4) is placed on at least one edge (3) of the load (1) then it is ensured its permanent rigid maintenance on the load (1) and in which a device (14) for gripping, moving, depositing and maintaining a protective angle placed between a store (15) of protective angles and the edge ( 3) load (1) to be lined with an angle iron; a protective angle (4) is brought on an edge (3) of the load (1) from the store (15) by means of said device (14) characterized in that with this same said device (14) only temporarily maintaining the protective angle (4) brought and deposited on the edge (3) of the load in at least a first zone (16) and, simultaneously, ensuring the rigid retention of the angle (4) on the load (1) and, once this rigid support has been obtained, said device (14) is released from the angle iron (4).

Description

 METHOD, MACHINE AND INSTALLATION FOR PACKAGING A LOAD PROVIDED WITH AT LEAST A HINGE PROTECTION HINGE; DEVICE FOR SEIZING, MOVING, DEPOSITING AND HOLDING SUCH A CORNER.

The invention relates to a method, a machine and an installation for packaging a load provided with at least one edge protection angle and a device for gripping, moving, depositing and holding such an angle.

The invention is more particularly applicable to a palletized load comprising four protective angles of vertical longitudinal general direction applied to the four vertical edges of the load placed between its four vertical lateral faces. Such protective angles, in particular in folded cardboard, are intended to form a local padding ensuring better protection of the vertical edges of the load. When such a palletized load is intended to be covered with a packaging film, the angles prevent the edges if they are sharp, from piercing or cutting or breaking the packaging film.

Up to now, such protective angles when they have been provided have been mainly handled manually. Once applied to the vertical edges of the load they were held there by strapping or other similar means. This technology not only has the drawbacks inherent in any manual process (cost, limited throughput, etc.), but any mechanization comes up against the problem of interference with the moving parts used for and during packaging. These problems have had the effect of limiting the use of such angles, even though they would have many advantages in the case of overpacked pallet loads with high compressive forces. Mechanization has been proposed (see document EP-A-0 060543) but essentially for the horizontal and non-vertical upper edges. In addition, this mechanization considerably slows down the rates. Reference may also be made to documents DE-A-2 431 153, US-A-4 587 791, FR-A-2 540 828 and US-A-4 671 046.

The prior art known for overpacking processes and machines for palletized loads includes the following documents: FR-A-2 468 506, FR-A-2 470 056, US-A-4 587 796, FR-A -2 228 669, FR-A-2 243 113, FR-A-2 413 270, FR-A-2 281 275, US-A-4 473 990, EP-A-0 184 485, EP-A-0 177 413, EP-A-0 180 517, US-A-4 587 796. These methods and machines are, in general, well known to those skilled in the art: it may be the implementation of the technique so-called "curtain", that of the full width straight or banded or even helical wrapping, that of the cover. In the so-called "curtain" technique, an overwrap film curtain is formed between two film reels with a vertical axis; then the load is advanced horizontally towards the curtain of film deformed in a U shape; then we close and secure the curtain on itself. In the wrapping technique, a relative pivoting is provided around a vertical axis of the load with respect to a reel of strip film. This wrapping technique includes several variants: the load remains fixed and the film reel rotates around it (so-called fixed table machine and rotating reel); The load pivots and the axis of the strip film reel remains in a fixed position (machine known as a turntable). The film strip has a width of the load height or a fraction thereof. The wrapping is straight or helical. The banding technique is also applicable to a load extending horizontally horizontally and displaced relatively along its axis. The reel of strip film having a horizontal axis. In the hooding technique, flattened film sheath is wound on a reel. The spool is unwound and the sheath is opened and pulled to be threaded onto the load by vertical downward sliding, using fingers, pliers, holding frame, belts, chains or other. These techniques use solid or perforated film like a net. This film is heat shrinkable or stretchable. In the latter case it is stretched or pre-stretched. The entire load or only part of it can be covered with film. These techniques can be subject to variants such as in particular: the deposition of a sheet or a plate or a roof or base frame on the upper or lower horizontal face (between the pallet and the load) of load. The overwrap film may include several layers. The pallet can be replaced by a false pallet. An overwrapping machine can also be integrated into an installation comprising, upstream, a palletizer.

An object of the invention is therefore to allow the mechanization and automation of the installation of such protective angles on loads to be packaged.

Another object is to allow this installation by avoiding any collision with the moving parts of the machine used for the overwrapping.

Another goal is to be able to avoid in some cases the establishment of a strapping or other similar means specifically intended for the maintenance of the angle or angles before that (these) is (are) trapped (s) by the overwrap film.

Another object is to allow the installation of angles of different formats on loads of different formats.

Another object is to propose a method and a machine for overpacking loads including the installation of such angles.

Another object is to propose a device specially intended for gripping, moving when depositing and maintaining (during laying) such angles.

Another object is to propose a machine and an installation for packaging or overpacking loads, in particular palletized, including one or more such device (s).

Another object is to propose a load, in particular palletized packed with angles, obtained by the said process or with the said machine.

These and other aims are achieved by means of a method of packaging a load of generally prismatic shape and more particularly parallelepipedic in which at least one protective angle, rigid, is placed on at least one edge of the loaded one and then, one ensures its permanent rigid maintenance on the load, characterized in that one implements a device of seizure, displacement, deposit and maintenance of angle iron protection placed between a store of protective angles and the edge of the load to be fitted with an angle; a protective angle is brought to an edge of the load from the store by means of said device; with this same device only, the protective angle supplied and deposited on the edge of the load is temporarily maintained temporarily in at least one first zone and, simultaneously, the rigid support of the angle is ensured and, once this rigid support obtained, said device is released from the angle.

According to a first alternative embodiment, one surrounds some of the faces of the load or a packaging element thereof and of the angle iron held in place by the device with at least one strip applied to the load placed in at least one second. zone different from the first, so that the strip maintains the angle. This strip is either a strip or a wider strip. It is specifically intended to maintain the angle iron or also performs the packaging (or overwrapping) function of the load.

According to a second embodiment, glue, soda, clip clip, liaisonne the angle on the load or a packaging element thereof to ensure maintenance of the angle. We choose the load packaging element with which the angle is rigidly associated in the group comprising the pallet, a spacer, an end plate or frame, a container of the load itself. According to a third alternative embodiment, the angle iron is clamped on the load at at least one of its ends in a zone spaced from the first zone by means of an end plate or frame having an edge folded over the angle angle. wedging it and for this purpose; the angle iron is brought to the edge and an end plate or frame with an edge not folded down on at least one end face of the load; then positively fold the edge of the plate or frame on the angle.

Whatever the variant concerned, it is also possible to cover at least partially at least some of the faces of the load and the angle iron held in place with wrapping film applied to the load, the angle iron and any retaining members of this one: tape, glue, clip, clip, link, folded edge of plate or end frame.

As it follows from the above, the packaging film used is either intended essentially for overpacking the load, the angle iron being held in place, or contributes substantially to maintaining the angle.

The aims of the invention are also achieved by means of a device for gripping, moving, depositing and maintaining a protective angle on the edge of a load, comprising:

- a frame;

- A corner store arranged so that in this the angles are stored with their upper surfaces facing the outlet opening of the store;

a support arm carried by the frame, mounted on the latter so as to be movable between two extreme positions: a gripping position and a common position of removal and holding, where it is respectively close to the outlet opening of the store and distant from it and close to an edge of the load;

- first means acting on the arm for driving it between and blocking it in its two extreme positions;

- Means for gripping and holding an angle iron essentially by its upper surface, carried by the support arm, being either in the active state or in the inactive state;

- specific control means of the gripping and holding means allowing the passage from one to the other of the states and the temporary maintenance of one or the other of the two states;

- general control means ensuring the coordination of the first drive means and specific control means.

These aims are also achieved by means of a packaging machine capable of rigidly and permanently associating one or more angles on a load, comprising at least one such device for gripping, moving, depositing and maintaining an angle and at least a device for ensuring a rigid, permanent association of the angle deposited on the load using this device, the load itself or a packaging element thereof.

This device for ensuring a rigid association is chosen from the group comprising a device for surrounding and applying a strip to the load and the angle iron; a device for bonding, welding, stapling, clipping, bonding the angle iron to the load or a packaging element thereof; a device for folding down the edge of an end plate or frame ensuring the wedging of the angle; a machine for overwrapping the palletized load in which the overwrapping film ensures at least the function of maintaining the angle.

With the packaging machine thus allowing the rigid load / angle association can be associated, functionally downstream, a load overwrapping machine having the essential function of overpacking it and chosen from the group comprising: curtain machines , wrapping machines, hooding machines.

The two overwrapping machines, when they are provided for maintaining the angle iron and overwrapping the load, may be separate or preferably common, the same machine ensuring the two functions

Such overwrapping machines can therefore be chosen from the group comprising: machines curtain, banding machines, hooding machines.

According to another characteristic, at least one device for feeding and depositing a plate or end frame with an edge or folding flap can be functionally associated with the packaging machine allowing the rigid load / angle association.

As follows from the above, the invention can use an overwrapping machine which has the function of: ensuring the overwrapping of the load, the latter having been previously provided with at least one angle bar rigidly associated with and remains; to participate substantially in the rigid and permanent maintenance of the angle; or do both simultaneously. In the latter two cases, the objects of the invention are also achieved by such an overwrapping machine comprising:

- load support means;

- means for supplying packaging film;

- movable means to allow at least partial recovery of a load carried by the support means and having the angle with the film from the supply means;

- And at least one device for gripping, moving, depositing and maintaining a protective angle as defined above.

According to other non-limiting characteristics of the method, during the displacement of a protective angle from the store to the corresponding edge of the load by means of said device, by means of the same said device, its relative pivoting of about 180 ° relative to its direction is ensured general longitudinal. The load and the angle can be covered by wrapping with strip overwrap film from a film reel, this film alone substantially maintaining the angle and simultaneously overwrapping the load or essentially ensuring only the overpack. For this purpose; successively, an initial free end portion of said strip is associated with the load or a packaging element or the latter, or an angle iron, or a holding member thereof, a relative displacement of the load is ensured and of the film reel so as to rotate the film reel axis around the wrapping axis of the load, the said film strip is cut transversely once the wrapping has been carried out, and an end free end portion is associated from said film strip to the banner film or to the load or a packaging element or this, or an angle, or a holding member thereof. You can use pre-stretched stretch film.

According to a first variant, one starts from preformed angles, they are grasped, moved, placed and maintained substantially in this pre-formed state. According to a second variant, one starts from flattened angles, one grasps them and moves in this flattened state and gives them the desired configuration by deforming them in situ on the corresponding edge of the load.

According to other non-limiting characteristics of the gripping, moving, depositing and holding device for an angle iron, a support arm is pivotally mounted by its first end part on the frame around an articulation axis substantially parallel to the general longitudinal direction of the outlet opening of the magazine and this arm supports at its second extreme part the gripping means and. holding. The first drive means, such as comprising a jack, ensure the pivoting of the support arm between its two extreme positions angularly distant by a fraction of a turn, in particular of the order of an eighth of a turn. The gripping and holding means comprise at least one suction cup which, in the gripping position of the support arm is located substantially in the outlet opening of the magazine and at least one shaping member in the general form of an angle. The gripping and holding means are mounted movable on the support arm between two extreme relative positions, namely a gripping position and a laying position. Second drive means for gripping and holding means ensure their movement between their two extreme positions and the blocking in one or the other of these. The general control means ensure their coordination with the first drive means and the specific control means. The device also comprises means able on the one hand to permanently bring an angle iron into the outlet opening of the magazine, whatever the degree of filling of the magazine and, on the other hand, to exert, at least on the angle iron being in this opening, a force tending to prevent it from entering the store further, that is to say tending to keep it in the opening of the store ready to be used. The frame of the device or the gripping and holding means or the support arm are mounted movable or of adjustable stroke to allow adapting the device to several load dimensions.

According to other non-limiting characteristics of the overwrapping machine used to maintain the angle iron and, if necessary, the overwrapping of the load proper, the latter is preferably of the wrapping machine type (with vertical axis or horizontal). This machine can include a plurality of gripping, moving, depositing and holding devices which are substantially similar to one another for the same plurality of edges of the load to be protected. The longitudinal general directions of the stores of these devices are mutually parallel. Their support arms are in the same common plane. The devices are substantially regularly distributed around an area where the load is located. According to a particular embodiment, the load support means are a table with a substantially vertical axis; the movable means for allowing the recovery of a load with the film comprise means for ensuring a relative pivoting of the table around its axis relative to the film supply means; and a device for gripping, moving, depositing and holding may comprise a magazine of general longitudinal vertical direction, the lower edge of which is substantially coplanar with the table.

According to a particular embodiment of the wrapping machine, its table is fixed and the means for feeding the packaging film and covering the load. comprise a ring supporting a film reel, substantially coaxial with the table, mounted to slide vertically along said axis between a lower position close to the plane of the table and a higher remote position, the axis of the film reel thus being able to turn around the load. The supply and recovery means may include equivalent film reel support means ensuring the same path to the film reel. The gripping, moving, depositing and holding devices are then essentially placed outside and near said crown and its path.

According to another particular, nonlimiting embodiment, the table is pivotally movable about its axis and the reel of strip film for wrapping has a fixed position axis. In this case, the machine can include a device for folding down the edge of a plate or frame placed on the upper horizontal face of the load and rotating in synchronism with the table at least at the start when the vertical angle must still be maintained, the overwrap film not yet installed.

According to other characteristics, the invention also relates to a device for supplying and depositing an end plate or frame as well as a device for folding down the flap of this plate or frame intended to be incorporated in such a machine. packaging.

Such a supply and removal device comprises:

- a frame; - at least one store for plates or frames;

- means for gripping a plate or frame in the active state or in the inactive state;

- support means, gripping means;

- drive means, support means between an entry location or the entry means are located in or near the discharge opening of the store and a deposit location or the entry means are located in or near of the area where the plate or frame must be on the load;

control means coordinating the operation of gripping means and driving means.

Such a device for folding the flap comprises:

- a frame;

- At least one flap movement member carried by the frame movably between an inactive position or the flap can be placed substantially coplanar with the plate or frame and an active position or the flap is placed substantially orthogonally to the plate or frame;

- means for driving the movable member between its two positions.

These two devices can be combined together, or separate. The device for folding the flap can be combined with a table wrapping machine rotating like a known type presser or at a table, in particular fixed.

The other characteristics and advantages of the invention will result from the description which follows of several possible but non-limiting forms of implementation with reference to the appended drawings in which:

. Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a palletized load provided with corner angles and an overwrap film surrounding the load and the angles and participating in the retention of the latter.

. FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D are four schematic elevation views (2C half right view and 2D half left view) illustrating the successive stages of implementing the method according to the invention in a variant in which the angles are maintained by two strips forming a strip, namely: supply of angles (FIG. 2A), maintenance of these on the load and simultaneously positioning of the retaining bands. In the sub-variant of FIGS. 2C and 2D, an overwrapping film covers the angle iron and the retaining strips, namely by wrapping a wrapping film (FIG. 2C) and by covering with a cover (FIG. 2D) .

. FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C are three schematic elevation views illustrating the successive stages of implementing the method according to the invention in another variant in which the angles are maintained by wrapping film in a banner strip on the load and the angles, helically, namely: bringing and maintaining the angles in a first zone and beginning of the banding in a second zone (FIG. 3A), continuation of the banding, the angles being only held by the film strip (FIG. 3B), end of the wrapping (FIG. 3C).

FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C are three schematic elevation views (4B half view from the right, 4C half view from the left) illustrating the successive stages of implementing the method according to the invention in another variant in which the angles are maintained by staples driven into the load or packaging elements thereof (case, pallet), namely: supply of angles, support against the load and stapling (Figure 4A), placement of a wrapping film wrapping helically the load, the angles and the staples (Figure 4B) or holding the load thus provided with stapled angles as is (Figure 4C).

. FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D are four schematic elevation views illustrating the successive stages of implementing the method according to the invention in another variant in which the angles are maintained by rigid association at the two ends on the pallet and on an upper end plate or frame with folded edge, namely: bringing the plate or frame to the horizontal upper face of the load with its edge not folded down (FIG. 5A), folding the edge and brought from outside the angles ( FIG. 5B), rigid association of the angles with the folded edge of the plate or upper end frame as well as with the pallet (FIG. 5C), charge thus produced without overwrap film (FIG. 5D).

. FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E, 6F, 6G and 6H are eight schematic elevation views illustrating the successive stages of implementing the method according to the invention in another variant in which the angles are kept wedged by the folded edges of two plates or lower and upper end frame respectively and by means of a film of overwrapping banner helically (half right view Figure 6G) or in the form of a cover (half view left Figure 6H), namely: on a pallet, feed and deposit of a lower end plate or frame with non-folded edge (Figure 6A), build up of the load on the pallet and lower plate or end frame (Figure 6B), feed and deposit on the upper horizontal face of the load consisting of a plate or upper end frame with non-folded edge (FIG. 6C), brought from the angles with the edges remaining non-folded (FIG. 6D), once the angles are in place t held in this way, folding down of the two edges of plates or end frames (FIG. 6E), subsequent jamming of the angles which can be ceased to be maintained, being so by the folded edges (FIG. 6F).

. FIG. 7 is a top view of a machine for overwrapping the vertical lateral faces of a palletized load by wrapping of the fixed table type and film reel with an axis rotating around the load helically, according to the invention , for both overpacking the load and maintaining the angle.

. Figure 8 is a vertical elevation view of the machine of figure 7.

. Figure 9 is a partial top view on a larger scale of a device for gripping, moving, depositing and maintaining angles.

. FIG. 10 is a front elevation view of the device in FIG. 9.

. FIG. 11 is a side elevation view of the device in FIG. 9.

. Figures 12 and 13 are two schematic views respectively in vertical elevation and from above of a wrapping machine by wrapping of the rotary table type, according to the invention, for both the overpacking of the load and the maintenance of the angle iron.

. FIGS. 14A to 141 are nine schematic elevational views illustrating the steps of a possible method of implementing the machine with the rotary table in FIGS.

12 and 13, namely: the starting situation or a load is on the table and the start of entering an upper end plate or frame (Figure 14A), the removal of this plate or frame on the upper horizontal face of the load, the edge not being folded down and the start of evacuation of the device for supplying and removing the plate or frame (FIG. 14B); this device being, in this separate embodiment of the device for folding down from the edges of the plate or frame, this device being retracted, the supply of the device for folding the edge vertically and downwards towards the plate or frame (FIG. 14C), l '' ledge angles (Figure 14D), the angles being maintained by the feeding device, the implementation of the device for folding the edge and the subsequent folding of the edge (FIG. 14E), the angles being maintained from above and the edge folded down, pivoting of the table, therefore of the load and of the device for folding down the flap and beginning of the wrapping (FIG. 14F), end of the wrapping, the table being stopped (FIG. 14G), discharge of the load, retraction of the device for folding the flap of the plate or end frame and pivoting of his fingers to the horizontal (figure 14H), machine ready for a new cycle (figure 141).

. FIG. 15 is a vertical view in elevation of a packaging machine of the fixed table type, in which is incorporated a device for feeding plates or end frames, this figure not showing the gripping, moving devices. , filing and retaining angle for reasons of simplicity and clarity, the gripping device may include a device for folding the edge of the plate or frame.

. Figure 16 is a partial side view of the device of Figure 15 illustrating its movable part.

. Figure 17 is a side view, partial, of the device of Figure 15 illustrating the variant with several magazines and constant level gripping device.

. Figure 18 is a horizontal plan view of a possible variant of a device for folding the flap of the plate or end frame, more particularly applicable to a plate or upper end frame. . Figure 19 is a schematic horizontal plan view of another possible variant of a device for folding the flap of the plate or end frame, more particularly applicable to a plate or lower end frame.

. FIG. 20 is a side view of the device in FIG. 19.

. Figure 21 is a view of the same type as that of Figure 20 showing the operation of the device.

The invention relates to the packaging of a load comprising on at least one edge 3 a separate and attached protective angle 4 rigidly held on the load 1. According to an alternative embodiment such an angle 4 is interposed between the load 1 and an outer overwrap film 2.

In a preferred but in no way limiting embodiment shown in the figures, the load 1 is a prismatic palletized load - in this case parallelepipedic - limited by four vertical lateral faces 5, and two upper 6 and lower 7 horizontal faces, the latter resting on a pallet or forming a "false pallet". In this case, the edges 3 are preferably the four vertical edges between and separating the faces 5 but can also be the four horizontal edges limiting a horizontal face 6, 7. The angles 4 used have a general longitudinal direction which is then respectively substantially vertical or horizontal.

The invention is applicable in the case of a charge different in particular extending lengthwise, horizontally, the edges 3 (and the protective angles 4 on which they are applied) being horizontal (not shown).

A machine for overwrapping a load 1 as seen here with overwrap film 2, this machine ensuring the maintenance of the angle iron 4 and / or the actual overpacking of the load generally comprises:

. load support means 8;

. means 9 for supplying film 2, coming from means 9;

. movable means 10 to allow the covering of at least part of certain faces of the load carried by the means 8 with the film 2 coming from the means 9.

In the embodiments more especially considered, the means 8 are a table with a substantially vertical axis; the means 9 comprise a reel of film in a strip (overwrapping by wrapping) or in the form of a flattened sheath (overwrapping by covering); and the means 10 comprising: or means for ensuring a relative pivoting of the table 8 about its axis 11 with respect to the film reel 9 or to the film coming from this the table 8 being either fixed and the reel 9 of strip film rotating around, or the table 8 rotating around its vertical axis 11 and the reel 9 of strip film having a fixed position axis (wrapping by wrapping); or means for ensuring the opening of the sheath coming from the flattened sheath coil 9 as well as the threading of the sheath thus opened on the load 1 carried by the table (overwrapping by covering).

In the case of the wrapping machine by wrapping of the fixed table type shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the table 8 is fixed and the means 10 comprise a ring 12 of axis 11 supporting the film reel 9, mounted to slide in parallel to the axis 11 between a lower position close to the horizontal plane of the table 8 and a parallel upper position distant from the table 8, in particular lying at a level slightly above that of the upper horizontal face 6. The crown 12 defines a particularly circular path for the axis of the film reel 9 around the vertical lateral faces 5. Given the axial sliding movement of the crown 12, the film reel 9 performs, in addition to a rotation about its axis, of the made of the unwinding of the film, a helical movement of axis 11.

In such an overwrapping machine, it is possible, instead of a crown 12, to have means for supporting the film reel 9 equivalent and ensuring a path identical or equivalent to the latter or to its axis. These support means can be, for example, a bent arm (horizontal upper and vertical down) rotating around a vertical axis of its horizontal section, parallel and spaced from the vertical section.

With such an overwrapping machine, the load 1 and the (or them) can be covered by wrapping angle (s) 4 by wrapping with the film 2 in strip coming from the film reel 9. For this purpose, successively, an initial free end part of the film strip 2 is associated with the load 1; a relative movement of the load 1 and of the film reel 9 is ensured so as to rotate the axis of the film reel 9 around the axis 11 of wrapping the load; the film strip 2 is cut transversely once the wrapping has been carried out; and an end free end portion of the film strip 2 is associated with the film previously streamer or with the load.

An overwrapping machine for wrapping the vertical lateral faces 5 of a load 1 by wrapping and allowing both the overpackaging of the load and the maintenance of the angles can also be of the table type 8 rotating around its vertical axis 11 by a pin 8a, the film reel having a generally fixed vertical direction axis. Such a machine is shown diagrammatically in FIGS. 12 and 13. It derives from a conventional machine of this type, known from the prior art by the presence instead of a roof presser plate of a device 54 for folding down the projecting edge or flap 53 of a plate or upper end frame 52 placed on the upper face 6 of the load 1, this device 54 being arranged like such a pressure plate, that is to say carried pivotally free by an axis 48 located above, coaxial with the axis 11 of the table 8, itself carried by a bracket 49 carried sliding by a column 50 forming a frame so as to be able to slide upwards downwards, thanks to training means. In this way the device 54 for folding down can be applied to the upper horizontal face 6 of a load 1 placed on the table 8 and turn at the same time as this. This column 50 also receives the means for feeding a film 9 most often comprising a carriage generally also mounted to slide vertically. The device 54 can be incorporated into a device 51 for supplying the plate or frame, these two devices 51, 54 being described below.

An overpacking machine implemented in the invention for overpacking the load and / or maintaining an angle can also be (not shown) of the "curtain" type, the load sliding horizontally on a conveyor and meeting a curtain of vertical film of general horizontal longitudinal direction stretched between two film reels with vertical axes, the curtain then being deformed into a U then closed in on itself and finally welded transversely and cut; or of the "hooded" type, the film coming from a sheath, in particular with bellows, originally flattened which is then opened with members such as belts, fingers, suction boxes or the like and then strung open on the load, from above. In the case of a packaging machine of the "hooding" type, successively the sheath is opened, it is threaded onto the load and the angle iron, the sheath is cut transversely to the desired length.

An overwrapping machine as implemented may also include (not shown) a film reel with a horizontal axis rotating around an elongated load in the longitudinal direction and movable to slide along it.

Film 2 is full or openwork like a net. It is of the stretch type or of the heat-shrink type. In the in the case of a stretch film, the film is preferably pre-stretched before its application to the load.

The covering of the load 1 with the film 2 by means of an overwrapping machine as mentioned above is such that the film surrounds the load (in at least one direction) as well as the angle or angles thereon . The film covers all of the adjoining faces of the load in this direction or only a part. Depending on the film dimensions used, the covering is simple (full width) or comprises several juxtaposed sections, in particular overlapping in the case of a helical wrapping. This helical wrapping can be crossed up and down.

In the embodiment of the overwrapping machine shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, there is also provided a device 13 for depositing a flexible sheet of overwrapping film on the upper horizontal face 6 of the load 1.

As already mentioned, such an overwrapping machine as has just been described can be used not only to ensure the overwrapping of the palletized load 1 furnished with one or more angles 4, when '' such an overwrap is desired, the overwrapping step then taking place at the end of the packaging process, but also to ensure substantially alone or in combination with the overwrap the maintenance of the angle iron (s) 4 temporarily maintained, moreover, on the load 1. In the case where it is desired to use the overwrapping machine for maintaining the angle or angles 4, first places the angle iron 4 on the edge 3 considered by means of a device 14 for gripping, moving, depositing and temporary maintenance to which we return later. Then, we cover the load 1 with the film 2, thanks to the overwrapping machine. We also cover, at least partially, the angle iron 4 held in place by the device 14, until it is trapped by the film 2 applied to the load and, consequently, held in place by the only overwrapping film. We then implement a device 14 for gripping, moving, depositing and maintaining protective angle 4 placed between a store 15 of angles of protection 4 and the edge 3 of the load 1 to be fitted with an angle iron 4. A protective angle iron 4 is brought in and deposited on an edge 3 of the load from the magazine 15 by means of said device 14. With this same said device 14 only the protective angle 4 thus brought to the edge 3 is temporarily maintained in a first zone 16 and, simultaneously, the angle 4 is covered in a second zone 17 different from the first zone 16 with the packaging film 2 nd t this at least until the packaging film 2 once surrounds the load 1 and also covering the angle iron 4 ensures its maintenance. Once the angle iron 4 thus held by the packaging film 2, the said device 14 is released from the angle iron 4 and the covering of the load 1 and the angle iron 4 is continued with the packaging film 2.

An angle iron 4 has in the embodiment considered substantially the length of the corresponding edge 3. The first zone 16 is, in this embodiment, the lower half of the angle iron 4 and the second zone 17 its upper end part. According to other possible variants, the zones 16, 17 are different. In the embodiment considered by the figures, protective angles 4 are placed on the four substantially parallel lateral edges 3 of the load 1. This positioning takes place simultaneously with several, in particular four, separate devices 14 for gripping, moving, depositing and maintenance operating in synchronism.

Such a device 14 generally comprises:

- a frame 18;

- A store 15 of angles arranged so that therein the angles 4 are stored with their upper surfaces facing the outlet opening 19 of the store 15, in particular are nested or superimposed one in or on the other;

- A support arm 20 carried by the frame 18, mounted on the latter movably between two extreme positions: a gripping position and a common position of removal and holding, where it is respectively close to the outlet opening 19 from the store 15 and distant from it and close to an edge 3 of the load l;

- First means 21 acting on the support arm 20 for driving it between and blocking it in its two extreme positions;

- Means 22 for gripping and holding an angle 4 essentially by its upper surface and its first zone 16, carried by the support arm 20, being either in the active state or in the inactive state; - Specific control means of the gripping and holding means 22 allowing the passage from one to the other of the states and the temporary maintenance of one or the other of the two states;

- General control means ensuring the coordination of the first drive means 21 and specific control means.

The outlet opening 19 of the magazine 15 has an elongated shape substantially complementary to that of the protective angles 4. Such an opening 19 therefore has a longitudinal direction 19a substantially parallel to the general longitudinal direction of the angles 4. Its longitudinal edges 19b are substantially parallel to direction 19a.

So that the upper surface of an angle iron 4 is both directed towards the outlet opening 19 when the angle iron 4 is in the magazine 15 and opposite the load l when the angle iron 4 is on it ci, and even when the outlet opening 19 is generally turned towards the load 1, the process is such that during the movement of a protective angle 4 from the magazine 15 to the corresponding edge 3 of the load 1 by means of said device 14, by means of the same said device 14, the relative pivoting of the angle iron 4 is approximately 180 ° relative to its general longitudinal direction.

According to a first embodiment, we start from preformed angles and stored in this way, we grab them, move them, deposit and maintain them substantially in this pre-formed state. According to a second alternative embodiment, one starts from flattened angles, they are grabbed and moved in this flattened state and they are given the desired configuration of angle by deforming them in situ on the corresponding edge 3 of the load 1. For this purpose the angle is gripped only in the vicinity of its longitudinal edges 23 and it is applied between these two edges 23 on the protruding edge 3 of the load 1.

In the embodiment under consideration, the support arm 20 is movable and pivotable because it is mounted as such at its first end portion 24 on the frame 18 around a fixed hinge axis 25, substantially parallel to the general longitudinal direction 19a.

The gripping and holding means 22 are supported at the second end portion 26 of the support arm 20.

In this embodiment, the first drive means 21 comprise a jack which ensures the pivoting of the support arm 20 around the axis 25 and between its two extreme positions. These are angularly spaced apart by a fraction of a turn, for example of the order of an eighth of a turn.

According to other possible embodiments, not shown, the support arm 20 is: mobile with pivoting about an axis arranged or arranged differently; sliding mobile, in particular horizontal in the direction of the edge 3 to be covered with the angle iron; articulated around a point; carried by a handling robot; or finally is mobile according to a combination of these different movements (articulation, pivoting, sliding). The movement is more or less complex depending on the displacement imposed on the angle iron between the magazine 15 more or less distant from the load 1 or its support means 8 and from the load 1 or its support means 8.

The gripping and holding means 22 can use at least one suction cup 27 which in the gripping position of the support arm 20 is situated substantially in the opening 19 of the magazine 15, the opening of the suction cup 27 being then able to come and take an angle 4 located in the opening 19, by its upper surface.

In the envisaged embodiment, at least two suction cups 27 are provided which, in the gripping position of the support arm 20, are located near the longitudinal edges 19b of the outlet opening 19 of the magazine 15.

The suction cups 27 are associated with suction means with a cut-off such that when the suction means are operating, the suction cups then in the active state, suck air through their gripping faces. When the suction means are cut, the suction cups, then in the inactive state, do not suck the air.

Such suction cups 27 are commonly used in the packaging field. There is no need to describe them further. They can be replaced by equivalent members such as suction box or even finger or gripping pliers.

It is also expected that the gripping and holding means 22 comprise at least one conformation 28 in general form of angle iron. Such a shaping member 28 aims to ensure pressure on the upper surface of the protective angle 4 during its installation so that it is well conformed to. load 1 at the location and in the vicinity of the edge 3 and that there is no substantial clearance between the load 1 and the protective angle 4. This shaping member which can also be used in the case of Pre-formed angles allows, in the case of originally flat angles, to conform them according to a form of angle.

In the envisaged embodiment, in addition to the overall movement of the support arm 20, provision is made for the gripping and holding means 22 to be mounted relatively displaceable on the support arm 20 between two extreme relative positions, namely a gripping position and a deposit position. To this end, second drive means 29 are provided for gripping and holding means 22 ensuring the displacement of the means 22 from one to the other of the two extreme positions and allowing blocking in one or the other. 'other of these. The general control means already mentioned ensure the coordination of the second drive means 29 with the first control means and the specific control means.

In particular, the gripping and holding means 22 are pivotally mounted on the support arm 20, at its second end portion 26 around an axis of articulation 30 substantially parallel to the general direction 19a as well as to the axis 25. In this case, the second drive means 29 comprise a jack 31 which is articulated on the one hand to the support arm 20 on the side of the second end portion 26, on the other hand to a toothed pinion 32 articulated at 33 on the support arm 20 and on which a toothed pinion 34 fixed in rotation on the axis 30. With such a structure, the second drive means 29 ensure the pivoting of the gripping and holding means between its two extreme relative positions angularly spaced apart by a fraction of a turn, in particular the order of a U-turn.

The second drive means 29 can be the subject of other embodiments, corresponding as well to the same kinematics of movement of the gripping and holding means 22 as to another kinematics.

The general control means are arranged to allow the following situations:

- Support arm 20 in the gripping position: the gripping and holding means 22 are in the gripping position. Their location is then in or in the immediate vicinity of the opening 19. Then, the means 22 are either in the active state, or in the inactive state. In the active state the suction cups 27 suck against them and thus maintain a protective angle 4. In the inactive state, the suction cups 27 cannot maintain against them a protective angle 4. The latter situation occurs when the device 14 is at the waiting state.

- Support arm 20 in the removal and holding position: the gripping means 22 are in the removal position. They are then moved away from the magazine 15 and located in the immediate vicinity of the edge 3 concerned. Then, the means 22 are either in the active state to continue to ensure the effective maintenance of the protective angle 4, or in the inactive state to release the protective angle 4, and while the latter is applied to the edge, 3 back to store 15.

The general control means ensure, in relation to an initial situation where the support arm 20 is in the gripping position and the gripping and holding means 22 in the gripping position and in the inactive state - waiting state - the following sequence:

a / passage of the gripping and holding means 22 in the active state;

b / passage of the support arm 20 in the removal and holding position and gripping and holding means 22 in the removal position;

c / in this last position of the support arm 20 and of the said means 22, passage of the latter in the inactive state;

d / passage of the support arm 20 and of the gripping and holding means 22 to the gripping position.

Step a / allows to enter the protective angle 4 located in the opening 19 and this in the area 16. In step b / the two passages considered occur simultaneously or not. This step b / makes it possible to transport the angle iron carried by the means 22 to the load and the edge 3 concerned. In step c / the reinforcing angle 4 is separated from the holding means 22. This is made possible without substantial movement of the protective angle 4 because, simultaneously, the film 2 keeps the angle 4 applied to the load 1 in the second zone 17. In step d / the device returns to the waiting state. This step d / occurs in masked time since simultaneously the covering of the load 1 and the angle iron 4 with the film can continue. Likewise step a / and the start of step b / can occur while film 2 is deposited on the load 1 including, possibly on the edge 3 which must receive the angle iron 4. At the end of the step b /, the edge 3 must be free of film 2 to allow the angle 4 to be applied to this edge 3.

Preferably, the gripping and holding means 22 comprise a support profile 35 extending substantially parallel to the general longitudinal direction 19b of the outlet opening 19 of the magazine 15, along which are arranged several pairs of suction cup assemblies 27- shaping members 28. The support profile 35 is in this case placed in a median manner relative to the opening 19, the suction cups 27 and the shaping member 28 being located on either side of the support profile 35. The pairs of suction cup assemblies 27 shaping member 28 are, in the embodiment considered two in number, one at each lower 36 and upper 37 end portion of the support profile 35. The support profile 35 is journalled on the support arm 20. The toothed pinion 34 and more generally the second drive means 29 are located at an end part of the support profile 35, in this case the lower end part. re 36 where the support profile 35 is carried by the support arm 20.

The support arm 20 and the gripping and holding means 22 are located sectorally with respect to the general longitudinal direction of an angle iron. This arrangement makes it possible to maintain the protective angle 4 by its first zone 16 only, leaving its second zone 17 free.

To allow flexibility of use of the device 14, namely the use of angles 4 of different lengths (heights when the angles are of generally vertical direction as in the embodiment considered), provision is made for the magazine 15 to have a transverse end 38 ( in this case upper) open through which can protrude more or less the angles 4. In such a case, the magazine 15 also comprises projections 39 for holding the first angle located in the opening in the vicinity of the suction cups 27 and transverse ends 38, 40, the latter lower and close to the horizontal plane of the support arm 20.

In the embodiment under consideration, the device 14 also comprises means 41 able on the one hand to permanently bring an angle iron into the outlet opening 19 of the magazine 15, whatever the degree of filling of the magazine 15 and, on the other part, to exert at least on the angle iron being in this opening 19 a force tending to prevent it from entering more into the store 15. This constructive arrangement is particularly efficient in the case where the angles are arranged vertically and are of great length (in this case height) for example of the order of 2 meters. Otherwise, there would be a risk of the angles 4 collapsing or, when the device 14 is brought to grip an angle in the opening 19, this would risk entering the store and, consequently, not being caught by the means of gripping and holding 22. These means 41 comprise for example a rear support plate 42 of the angles, movable with transverse sliding and biased towards the outlet opening of the magazine by a suitable member 43 as well as a support conveyor 44 of angles of the magazine 15. D ' other embodiments can be envisaged, in the form of mechanical, electrical, pneumatic means.

According to the invention (Figure 11), the device 14 is arranged in a packaging machine so that it can be adjusted as a function of the dimensions of the load 1. This adjustment requires that the gripping and holding means 22 be placed more or less close to the axis il, in the removal and holding position, with a given orientation. To this end, according to one possible embodiment, the frame 18 is mounted as a whole displaceable and biocable in the required position with a view to adjusting the device as a function of the dimensions of the load 1 concerned, by means of mobile support means 46 in particular rollers and drive means 47, in particular jacks, depending on the device control means. In particular, the frame 18 is mounted slidingly movable in a direction substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal direction 19a of the outlet opening 19 of the magazine 15. The rollers 46 can roll on a track 45 on the ground. The jack 47 can be associated on the one hand with the ground or with a support fixed to it and on the other hand with the frame 18 or with a support fixed to it. Furthermore, the gripping and holding means 22 are mounted to be displaceable on the support arm 20 according to an adjustable stroke for the purpose of adjusting the device as a function of the dimensions of the load l concerned, depending on the means for controlling the device. For this purpose and for example, the jack 31 can have an adjustable stroke, the effective stroke of the jack of the cylinder 31 depending on the dimensions of the load 1 concerned. Preferably, it is provided that the control means coordinate the movements of the frame 18 and the adjustment of the stroke of the jack 31 in particular according to standard operating programs corresponding to standardized load dimensions 1. According to a possible variant, the first means of drive 21 are arranged adjustable as regards the stroke of the support arm 20 between its two extreme positions, depending on the device control means, for adjusting the device 14 according to the dimensions of the load 1. For this purpose and for example, the pivoting stroke of the support arm 20 can be more or less important as adjustable, the sliding stroke of the cylinder of the first drive means 21 being itself adjustable.

The invention also relates to a packaging machine as already described with which is associated at least one device 14 for gripping, moving, depositing and holding as it has already been described.

These devices 14, thanks to their arm structure

20 pivoting makes it possible to move the magazines away from the load to be treated or from its support means. The free space between them allows the passage of the packaging or overwrapping means.

Preferably and in general, the machine comprises a plurality (for example four) of gripping, moving, depositing and holding devices 14 of protective angles 4 substantially similar to one another for the same plurality of edges 3 of the load 1 to be packaged.

This plurality of devices 14 is arranged to that the longitudinal general directions 19b are substantially parallel to each other and that the plurality of support arms 20 is substantially in the same common plane (or between two common planes parallel to each other) perpendicular to the direction 19b.

The general control means ensure the synchronous operation of the plurality of devices 14.

The plurality of gripping and holding means 22 are in their gripping position which is relatively distant from one another and in their relatively closest positioning and holding position.

The overwrapping machine under consideration may comprise several devices 14 which comprise partially or completely common constituent members. For example, two devices 14 may have a common support arm 20 which supports, by means of a cross member, two gripping and holding assemblies for two angles 4 and two edges 3.

In the embodiment considered by FIGS. 7 and

8 (table 8 vertical axis load support), the magazine (s) 15 have vertical general directions 19a and its (or their) lower transverse end (s) 40 is ( are) substantially coplanar (s) with the table 8. In this same embodiment, the devices 14 are essentially placed outside and close to the crown 12 and its path.

The overwrapping machine can also be according to the other types envisaged and described and, by example, with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13, as well as to the functional diagrams of FIGS. 14A to 141, of the rotary table type 8. This machine then comprises a device capable of ensuring at least temporary maintenance of the angles 4 put in place by the devices 14 until they are trapped and therefore maintained by the overwrap film 2. This device can be, in l occurrence, the functional combination of a device 51 for supplying and depositing a plate or upper end frame 52 having an outer flap 53 and a device 54 for folding this flap 53, originally coplanar with the plate or frame, substantially perpendicular thereto, towards the load 1 and against the upper free end parts of the angles 4. The device 54 is carried by the axis 48 as already indicated, so as to be able to pivot freely, while the device 51 is mounted on an annex frame 55, fixed, so that it can slide doubly vertically up or down and horizontally between a retracted position away from the plumb of the tab the 8 and of the device 54 (FIGS. 12 and 14A) and a position located directly above the table 8 and above the upper face 6 and of the load 1 (FIG. 14B), the device 54 being in this position , as shown in Figure 12 being then retracted, to allow the passage of the device 51, by vertical sliding upward, as shown in Figures 14H and 141. As can be seen in Figures 14A to 141 , the device 51 is first implemented, the device 54 being retracted (Figures 14A and 14B). Then the device 51 is retracted and the device 54 implemented once the angles have been removed and are held by the device 14 (FIG. 14E). The angles 4 are thus temporarily held in place by the device 54, the wrapping can be started, preferably to table 8 (Figure 14F). The angles 4 are then trapped by the overwrap film 2 (FIG. 14G). The device 54 can then in turn be removed by vertical upward sliding (FIG. 14H).

According to the invention, it is possible, also to ensure the temporary or permanent maintenance of the angle or angles 4 by means other than the overwrap film

2 set up using an overwrapping machine, as shown.

In a first variant, one surrounds some of the faces of the load 1 or a packaging element thereof and of the angle iron 4 held in place by the device 14 with at least one strip applied to the load 1 placed in at least a second zone 17 different from the first 16, so that the strip maintains the angle iron 4. For example, it is possible to use a narrow strip such as a strip 56 providing localized support on the angle iron 4 (FIGS. 2A , 2B, 2C, 2D). As a sub-variant, strips 56 can be placed offset from one another. One or such bands maintain the angle 4 in a second zone 17 distinct from the first zone 16 or the angle 4 is held by the device 14. Such a strip 56 forming a strip opposes a wide band such as the film 2 in a strip for the overpack put in place by wrapping (Figures 3A to 3C). The strip 56 (or possibly 2) is implemented in the manner of a strapping or a straight wrapping or a helical wrapping. As already mentioned, it is possible either to leave the load 1 with the angles 4 held by the strip (s) 56 (not shown), or to ensure an additional overwrap (Figures 2C and 2D).

Figures 3A to 3C correspond to the implementation of an overwrapping machine by wrapping.

According to a second variant, glue, soda, staple, clip, bond the angle iron 4 to the load 1 or a packaging element of the latter in order to maintain the angle iron 4. This variant is illustrated by the diagrams of the figures 4A, 4B, 4C in the case of stapling by means of staples 57. The load packaging element in question can be chosen from the group comprising the pallet 1a, a spacer, a plate or frame end 52, a container of the same load 1. We glue, weld, staple, clip, connect the angle iron 4 to the load 1 or a packaging element thereof in or away from a first zone 16. The second zone 17 is identical to the first 16 in the case where the application of the angle iron to the load 1 ensures, by this very fact, the desired permanent connection, for example because the angle 4 has, on its lower surface of the adhesive, or functional equivalent ensuring the desired connection during the pressing of the angle iron on the load 1 by the device 14. Or a stapling device or equivalent can be incorporated into the device 14. The second zone 17 is distinct from the first 16 in the other cases

(case of Figures 4 to 4C). An additional overwrap film 2 can (Figure 4B) or not (Figure 4C) be applied next. In the case of the diagrams of FIGS. 5A to 5D, the angle iron 4 is rigidly associated, for example by gluing or stapling on the one hand at its upper end to a plate or upper end frame 52 whose flap 53 has been previously folded down and is therefore below of the angle iron 4 and, on the other hand, at its lower end, in the same way to the pallet la, the angle iron 4 having a suitable length. Alternatively, one could, in a similar manner, previously set up a plate or lower end frame 52 with a flap also folded up, as taught with reference to the third variant and FIGS. 6A and following which the angle iron, placed above on the outside, would be rigidly associated.

In a third variant, the angle iron 4 is clamped on the load 1 at at least one of its ends in a zone spaced 17 from the first zone 16 by means of an end plate or frame 52 having a folded edge 53 on the angle iron 4 by wedging it and for this purpose: the angle iron 4 is brought to the edge 3 and an end plate or frame 52 with edge 53 not folded over at least one end face 6,7 of the load 1 ; then the edge 53 of the plate or frame 52 is positively folded down on the angle iron 4. This variant is more particularly represented by FIGS. 6A to 6G in the case where the angle iron 4 is held at its upper and lower ends by two flaps 53a , 53b of two end plates 52a, 52b respectively lower and upper. To this end, devices such as 51, 54 are used for each of the two plates or frames 52a, 52b and each of the corresponding flaps 53a, 53b. To do this, and from, for example, a pallet 1a, the plate or frame 52a of the lower end, the edge 53a not folded down, that is to say, say substantially coplanar with the plate or frame 52a. Then thanks to a palletizer forming part of the packaging installation (not shown), the elementary packages lb (or the load 1) is brought on the plate or frame 52a (igure 6B), up to that the plate or frame 52a is trapped under the load, its edge or flap 53a still not folded down. In the same way, thanks to a suitable feeding device 51 (the same or another), the plate or frame 52b of upper end with the edge 53b not folded down is brought to the upper face 6 of the load 1 (FIG. 6C). It is then possible to bring the load 1 and its edges 3, the angles 4 by the first zones 16, thanks to the devices 14 the flaps 53a, 53b being free and not trapped (FIG. 6D). The angles 4 remaining held in place by the devices 14 and the devices 51 being suitably retracted, two devices 54 can be used to ensure the folding of the two flaps 53a, 53b (Figure 6E) on them. angles 4 in the second zones 17 by trapping them against the load 1 (FIG. 6F). This charge can remain as is. Or the flaps 53a, 53b can be joined by a strip of tape, glue, staples or the like (not shown). Or it can be put in place an overwrap film 2, by wrapping (Figure 6G) or by covering (Figure 6H) or other. Naturally, the sequence which has just been described can be the subject of variant embodiments, aiming at the same effect. When, as has just been indicated, end plates or frames 52 are used, these are for example of cardboard grooved at the location of the fold line of the flaps 53. Such plates or frames are such that once the flaps 53 are folded with a certain force, they keep a substantial residual folding even with slight external stresses going in the direction of the spacing of the flaps 53.

As follows from the above, such plates or frames 52 can, by themselves, ensure sufficient temporary retention of the angles 4 in order to their subsequent overwrapping, or even permanent support, without even overwrapping, especially when the flaps 53 are secured to each other and / or to the angles 4. Such plates or frames 52 also have the advantage of allowing the angles 4 to be held in one or their two ends. Therefore, according to the relative position of the angles 4 relative to a flap 53 (outside or inside) thereof, the feed devices 14 or 51 for depositing an end plate or frame 52 or 54 to fold the edge or flap 53 thereof are functionally associated according to a sequence chosen from the group comprising the following sequence: the device 51 for depositing an end plate or frame 52 is first put in work, then the device 54 for folding the edge 53, finally the device 14, the angle iron 4 then being placed towards the outside of the folded edge 53; the device 14 and the device 51 for depositing a plate or frame 52 are first implemented then the device 54 for folding the edge 53, the angle iron 4 then being placed towards the inside of the folded edge 3.

According to another aspect, the invention also relates, on the one hand to the feed and deposit device

51 of an end plate or frame 52 and on the other hand a device 54 for folding down a flap 53 of such a plate or frame 52.

These two devices 51, 54 are incorporated into a machine or installation as just described, which allows the installation of angle brackets.

These two devices 51, 54 are in a first embodiment, isolated and distinct from each other. In a second embodiment, the two devices 51, 54 are incorporated into a common assembly.

The supply and removal characteristics 51 will now be described in more detail with more specific reference to FIGS. 15 to 17.

Such a feed and deposit device 51 comprises

- a frame 58;

- at least one magazine 59 for the end plates or frames 52;

- Input means 60 for a plate or frame 52, which input means 60 are either in the active state, or in the inactive state;

- support means 61, gripping means 60;

- drive means 62, support means 61, therefore gripping means 60 between a gripping location where the gripping means 60 are located in or near the discharge opening 63 of the magazine 59 and a location of deposit where the gripping means 60 are located in or near the area where the plate or frame 52 must be on the load 1;

and finally control means coordinating the operation of the gripping means 60 and of the drive means 62.

The frame 58 can be more or less incorporated into the frame of the packaging machine and installation of angles.

Preferably, a magazine 59 is arranged to allow stacking of the plates or frames 52 so that they are placed horizontally, the discharge opening 63 being upper. This discharge opening 63 can also be a reloading opening for the magazine in plates or frames 52.

In the alternative embodiment of FIG. 17, two magazines 59 are provided placed side by side on a movable frame of means such as a jack, ensuring relative movement of magazines 59 and support means 61.

In the nonlimiting embodiment represented by the drawings, the drive means 62 are arranged to ensure double vertical and horizontal sliding respectively for on the one hand the gripping operation and that of depositing, on the other hand the transition from one location to another.

In this case, and from a standby position where the gripping means 60 are located vertically but spaced from a plate or frame 52 located in the discharge opening 63, the successive operations are carried out following:

- It is brought by a vertical sliding and downward the gripping means 60 in contact with a plate or frame 52. For this purpose, the support means 61 in the form of a plate may include a contactor or detector 69 which stops the downward sliding movement when the gripping means 60 can engage on a plate or frame 52.

In this situation where the gripping means 60 are separated from the load and situated rather downwards, the gripping means are made to pass before the inactive state to their active state. In the inactive state, the gripping means are not able to pick up and maintain a plate or frame 52 while, on the contrary, they are in this situation in the active state. Consequently, the passage of the input means 60 from the inactive state to the active state makes it possible to associate a plate or frame 52 with the input means 60 carried by the support means 61 including a support plate 70.

The drive means 62 then control the upward vertical movement of the gripping means 60, these always remain in the active state. Then, the drive means 62 move the gripping means 60 from their location away from the load to the location of removal, in particular by bringing the plate or frame 52 vertically vertically from the place where it is to be deposited. on the load or a packaging element thereof (upper horizontal face of the load or pallet 1a).

The drive means 62 can then be used to bring about a vertical downward movement of the gripping means 60, the gripping means 60 always being in the active state and still holding a plate or frame 52.

This movement is continued until the gripping means 60 are stopped, the plate or frame 52 is finding it in convenient proximity to its location on the load.

In this situation, it is possible to switch the input means 60 from the active state to the inactive state. It follows that the plate or frame 52 is detached from the gripping means 60 and, by its own weight, falls vertically to the desired location.

Then, the supply device 51 can return to the initial state by a double movement of vertical ascending sliding then of sliding until the location is removed, the gripping means 60 being in the inactive state.

Naturally, it is understood that other operating sequences are possible to achieve a similar effect.

Insofar as the frame 58 is partly common to the packaging machine as described, this frame 58 does not interfere with the movable members of the machine. To this end, the frame 58 is in particular placed above and towards the outside of these members. In this case, the magazine 59 can be placed horizontally next to the packaging machine as is clearly visible in FIG. 15.

In this variant embodiment, the frame 58 comprises pillars 71 or extensions of machine pillars situated generally towards the outside thereof and, at the upper part, side members 72, arranged horizontally. These beams 72 constitute a path of guide (in particular rolling) for a carriage 73. This carriage 73 is slidably mounted between the two end parts of the beam 72 corresponding to the two locations of the gripping means 60. For this purpose, there are provided drive members such as cylinder, gearmotor, motorized endless chain, etc.

The carriage 73 itself comprises the vertical sliding means 74 such as a jack supporting, at the lower end 75, the support plate 70 on the lower face of which are the gripping means 60 and if necessary the contactor or detector 69.

The gripping means 60 are preferably vacuum suction cups. To ensure proper maintenance of the plate or frame 52 gripped by such suction cups 60, there are generally provided several suction cups

60 regularly arranged on the support plate 70.

So that the machine including the feed device 51 constitutes a compact assembly, the magazine 59 is preferably located in the immediate vicinity of the means for depositing overwrap film.

Whether the supply device 51 has one or more magazines 59, such a magazine can be provided (see FIG. 17) with a device 64 ensuring a constant level of grip in the magazine 59 whatever its degree of filling . This device 64 can be constituted for example by a lifting table. As a result, whatever the degree of filling of the magazine, there is always a plate or frame 52 in the discharge opening 63, the sliding stroke of the displacement 66 to go and grasp this plate being substantially constant.

It is understood that if the device 51 as just described is intended to deposit a plate or frame 52 on the pallet 1a, the downward vertical stroke in the location of removal is greater than when the device is intended to deposit the plate or frame 52 on the horizontal face 6 of the load.

Furthermore, when the plate or frame 52 is intended to be interposed between a pallet 1a and the elementary loads 1b constituting the load (FIG. 6b) the supply device 51 is functionally combined with a palletizer.

A device 54 will now be described more specifically in relation to FIGS. 18 to 21.

In general, such a device 54 comprises:

- a frame 65;

- At least one member 66 for moving the flap carried by the frame 65 movably between an inactive position where the flap 53 can be placed substantially coplanar with the plate or frame 52 and an active position where the flap 53 is placed substantially orthogonally to the plate or frame 52;

- And drive means 67 of the movable member 66 between these two positions. Such a device 54 is shown in the figure

18 in the case where it is incorporated into a supply and deposit device 51 as just described. In this case, the frame 65 is incorporated into the support means 61, in the general form of the support plate 70. In this case, at the periphery 76 of said support plate 70 are placed the displacement member (s) 66, the drive means 67 also being carried by the support plate 65, 70. In the case where the two devices 51, 54 are structurally associated together as has just been described, the control means mentioned above ensure the coordination of movements of the member 66 with the gripping means 60.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 18, a member 66 is in the form of a finger pivotally mounted on the support plate 65, 70 at the periphery 76. For this purpose, the support plate 65, 70, comprises projecting corners 77 supporting bearings 78 for axes 79 on which the fingers 66 are mounted wedged. The drive means 67 may comprise a jack carried by the support plate 65, 70 articulated by a link 80 to the axis 79 The two active and inactive positions are spaced from each other by a quarter of a turn. In the inactive position, the fingers 66 are substantially coplanar with the support plate 65, 70 while being directed towards the outside thereof. In the active position, the members 66 are substantially orthogonal to the support plate 65, 70 while being directed towards the gripping means or on the side of the face of the plate supporting the gripping means 60.

In the same way as a plurality of gripping means 60 is provided, there is generally provided a plurality of displacement members 66, for example two fingers on each of the axes situated on each of the sides of the support plate 65, 70.

If we now refer to the operating sequence of operation of the supply device 51 as described above, the member 66 is in the inactive position during the gripping phase of the plate or frame 52. In general, the passage from the inactive position to the active position occurs when the plate or frame 52 has already been deposited on the load l.

The two devices 51 and 54 can be incorporated into each other as well as into a swivel table type overwrapping machine. The devices 51 and 54 can then be carried with free pivoting by the axis 48 of the overwrapping machine, this being coaxial with that 11 of the table 8. The axis 48 is, as already indicated, carried by the bracket 49 slidingly mounted on column 50 of the overwrapping machine.

According to another possible alternative embodiment, in the case where the device 54 is intended to fold down the flap of a plate or frame 52 placed on a pallet 1a, the device 54 is incorporated into a table 8 of the overwrapping machine while being separate from the device 51. To allow the movement of the member 66, the table 8 is provided with a passage opening 68. In the embodiment shown in the drawings, a plurality of displacement members 66 are provided in locations close to the level of load 1. The table 8 is a roller table 81. These rollers 81 include the necessary interruptions defining the passages 68. Furthermore, the table comprises an elevator rack 82 comprising longitudinal members capable of passing between the rollers 81, carried by an underlying plate 83. The vertically sliding drive members move the plate 83 and the rack 82 so that the upper bearing surface 82a of the rack can be moved between a lower retracted position (FIG. 20) and an upper active position. (figure 21). In the retracted position, the load rests on the rollers 81 while in the active position, the load rests on the bearing surface 82a of the rack 82.

The displacement members 66 are, in the embodiment under consideration, in the form of flattened fingers or equivalent mounted with vertical sliding and, for this purpose, associated with guide means with vertical sliding 85 and driving means with vertical sliding 86 such as a jack. These means 85, 86 are carried while being directed upwards so that the finger 66 is also directed upwards, at the end of an arm 87 mounted articulated in its median part around a vertical axis 88 carried by the built. A jack 89 mounted articulated on the one hand on the frame and on the other hand on the arm 87 ensures its pivoting around the axis 88. A return spring 90 can be provided to bring the arm 87 therefore the finger 66 in a discarded situation where the flap 53 is not folded down.

In the variant which has just been described, the drive means 67 therefore include the drive means 86 and the jack 89. The arm 87, the pin 88, the jack 89, the spring 90 are placed as a whole in below the rollers 81.

Claims

1. Process for packaging a load of generally prismatic shape and more particularly parailélépipédique in which at least one at least one protective, rigid angle (4) is placed on at least one edge (3) of the load (1) then it ensures its permanent rigid retention on the load (1) and in which one implements a device (14) for gripping, moving, depositing and maintaining the protective angle placed between a store (15) of protective angles and the 'edge (3) of the load (1) to be trimmed with an angle iron; a protective angle (4) is brought to an edge (3) of the load (1) from the magazine (15) by means of said device (14) characterized in that with this same said device (14) only the protective angle (4) brought and deposited on the edge (3) of the load is temporarily maintained in at least one first zone (16) and, simultaneously, the rigid angle (4) is maintained on the load (1) and, once this rigid support has been obtained, said device (14) is released from the angle iron (4).

2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that it surrounds some of the faces of the load 1 or a packaging element thereof and the angle iron (4) held in place by the device (14) with at least one strip applied to the load (1) placed in at least one second zone (17) different from the first (16), so that the strip maintains the angle iron (4).

3. Method according to claim 2, characterized in that a narrow band is used such as a strip (56) providing localized support on the angle iron (4).

4. Method according to claim 2, characterized in that one implements a wide strip able to be able to substantially cover the faces of the load (1) by providing a distributed support on the angle (4).

5. Method according to claim 2, characterized in that the strip is implemented in the manner of a strapping or a straight wrapping.

6. Method according to claim 2, characterized in that the strip is implemented by helical wrapping.

7. Method according to claim 4, characterized in that the wrapping begins in a second area (17) so as to allow the maintenance of the angle iron (4), then once the device (14) released continues the wrapping the load (1) and the angle iron (4).

8. Method according to claim 2, characterized by two second zones (17) spaced from one another.

9. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that glue, soda, clip, clip, liaisonne the angle iron (4) on the load (1) or a packaging element thereof to ensure maintenance of the angle iron (4).

10. Method according to claim 9, characterized in that one chooses the packaging element of the load (1) to which the angle iron (4) is rigidly associated in the group comprising the pallet (la), a spacer, a end plate or frame (52), a container of the filler (1) itself.

11. Method according to claim 9, characterized in that glue, soda, clip, clip, liaisonne the angle (4) on the load (1) or a packaging element thereof in or. away from a first zone (16).

12. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the angle iron (4) is wedged on the load (1) at at least one of its ends in an area spaced apart (17) from the first area (16) at by means of an end plate or frame (52) having a folded edge (53) on the angle iron (4) by wedging it and for this purpose: the angle iron (4) is brought to the edge (3) and a end plate or frame (52) with edge (53) not folded over at least one end face (6,7) of the load (1); then the edge (53) of the frame plate (52) is folded down positively on the angle iron (4).

13. Method according to claim 12, characterized in that the angle iron (4) is wedged on the load (1) at its two ends by two end plates or frames.

14. Method according to any one of claims 1,2,9,12, characterized in that at least partially covers at least some of the faces of the load (1) and the angle iron (4) held in place with packaging film (2) applied to the load (1), the angle iron (4) and the possible retaining members thereof: strip, glue, clip, clip, link, folded edge of plate or end frame .

15. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that one implements a protective angle (4) having substantially the length of the corresponding edge (3) of the load (1).

16. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that protective angles (4) are placed on the four lateral edges (3) substantially parallel to the load (1).

17. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that several protection angles (4) are placed on several edges (3) of the load (1) substantially simultaneously with several devices (14) separate gripping, moving, depositing and maintenance operating in synchronism.

18. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that during the movement of a protective angle (4) from the magazine (15) to the edge (3) corresponding to the load (1) by means of said device (14) it is ensured by means of the same said device (14) its relative pivoting of approximately 180 ° relative to its general longitudinal direction.

19. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that one implements a protective angle (4) of generally vertical longitudinal direction intended to be applied to an edge (3) substantially vertical of the load (1).

20. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that a protective angle (4) of generally longitudinal direction is implemented substantially horizontal intended to be applied to a substantially horizontal edge (3) of the load (1).

21. Method according to claim 14, characterized in that the load (1) and the angle iron (4) are covered by wrapping with film (2) in strip packaging from a film reel (9) and , for this purpose, successively, an initial free end portion of said film strip (2) is associated with the load (1) or a packaging element thereof, or an angle iron (4), or a member maintaining the latter, a relative displacement of the load is ensured

(1) and the film reel (9) so as to rotate the film reel axis (9) around the wrapping axis of the load (1), the said film strip is cut transversely ( 2) once the wrapping has been carried out, and an end free end portion of the said film strip is associated

(2) to the film already streamer or to the load (1) or a packaging element thereof, or an angle (4), or a holding member thereof.

22. Method according to claim 14, characterized in that the load (1) and the angle iron (4) are covered by covering with film (2) in sheath coming from a coil of flattened film sheath and for this purpose , successively the sheath is opened, the sheath is cut transversely to the desired length.

23. Method according to claim 14, characterized in that it implements stretch film (2).

24. The method of claim 14, characterized in that the pre-stretched stretch film (2) is used before being deposited and applied to the load (1).

25. The method of claim 1, characterized in that one starts from preformed angles (4), they are grasped, moved, deposited and substantially maintained in this preformed state.

26. The method as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that it starts from flattened angles, they are grasped and moved in this flattened state and they are given the desired configuration of angle by deforming them in situ on the edge ( 3) corresponding to the load (1).

27. The method of claim 26, characterized in that to give an angle (4) its configuration it is only grasped in the vicinity of its longitudinal edges (23) and it is applied between them on an edge (3) protruding from the load (1).

28. Device for gripping, moving, depositing and maintaining a protective angle (4) on the edge (3) of a load (1) by implementing the method according to claim 1, comprising:

- a frame (18);

- A store (15) of angles where the angles (4) are stored with their upper surfaces facing the outlet opening (19) of the store (15);

- A support arm (20) carried by and mounted on the frame (18), movably between a gripping position and a removal and holding position;

first means (21) such as a jack acting on the support arm (20) for driving it between and locking it in its two extreme positions;

- Means (22) for gripping and holding an angle iron (4) by its upper surface, carried by the support arm (20), being either in the active state or in the inactive state such as suction cup (27);

- specific control means of the means (22) allowing the passage from one to the other of the states and the temporary maintenance of one or the other of the two states;

- general control means ensuring the coordination of the first drive means (21) and specific control means; characterized in that a support arm (20) is pivotally mounted by its first end part on the frame (18) about an articulation axis (25) substantially parallel to the general longitudinal direction (19a) of the outlet opening (19) of the magazine (15) and supports the gripping and holding means (22) at its second end part (26); the first drive means (21) ensuring the pivoting of the support arm (20) between its two extreme positions angularly distant by a fraction of a turn, in particular of the order of an eighth of a turn; the gripping and holding means (22) such as a suction cup (27) being, in the gripping position of the support arm (20), located substantially in the outlet opening (19) of the magazine

(15); and in that it comprises means (41) capable on the one hand of permanently bringing an angle iron into the outlet opening (19) of the magazine (15), whatever the degree of filling of the magazine (15) and, on the other hand, to exert at least on the angle iron located in this opening (19) a force tending to prevent it from entering the store further (15).

29. Device according to claim 28, characterized in that the gripping and holding means (22) comprise at least two suction cups (27) which in the gripping position of the support arm (20) are located near the longitudinal edges (19b) of the outlet opening (19) of the magazine (15).

30. Device according to claim 28, characterized in that the gripping and holding means

(22) comprise at least one shaping member (28) in the general form of an angle.

31. Device according to claim 28, characterized in that the gripping and holding means (22) are movable on the support arm (20) between two extreme relative positions, namely a gripping position and a depositing position ; second drive means (29) gripping and holding means (22) ensuring their movement between their extreme positions and the blocking therein; the general control means ensuring their coordination with the first drive means and the specific control means.

32. Device according to claim 33, characterized in that the gripping and holding means (22) are pivotally mounted on the support arm (20) about an articulation axis (30) substantially parallel to the general direction longitudinal (19a) of the outlet opening (19) of the magazine (15); the second drive means (29) such as comprising a jack (31) ensuring the pivoting of said means (22) between its two extreme positions angularly spaced apart by a fraction of a turn, in particular of the order of half a turn.

33. Device according to claim 28, characterized in that the gripping and holding means

(22) comprise a support profile (35) extending substantially parallel to the general longitudinal direction (19b) of the outlet opening (19) of the magazine (15) along which are arranged several pairs of suction cup assemblies (27 ) -conformation member (28).

34. Device according to claim 33, characterized in that the support profile (35) is journalled on the support arm (20).

35. Device according to claim 28, characterized in that these means (41) comprise a rear support plate (42) of the angles, movable with transverse sliding and urged towards the outlet opening of the store by a suitable member (43 ) as well as a support conveyor (44) for store angles (15).

36. Device according to claim 28, characterized in that the frame (18) is mounted as a whole movable and biocable in the required position for adjusting the device according to the dimensions of the load (1) concerned, thanks to mobile support means (46), in particular rollers and drive means (47), in particular jacks, depending on the control means of the device.

37. Device according to claim 36, characterized by the fact that the frame (18) is mounted movable by sliding in a direction substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal direction (19a) of the outlet opening (19) of the magazine (15).

38. Device according to claim 28, characterized in that the gripping and holding means (22) are movably mounted on the support arm (20) according to an adjustable stroke for the purpose of adjusting the device as a function of the dimensions of the load (l) concerned, depending on the control means of the device.

39. Device according to claim 28, characterized in that the first drive means (21) are arranged adjustable as regards the stroke of the support arm (20) between its two extreme positions, depending on the control means of the device, with a view to adjusting the device (14) as a function of the dimensions of the load (1).

40. Packaging machine for rigidly and permanently associating at least one protective angle (4) on an edge (3) of a load (1) characterized in that it comprises at least one device (14) for gripping, moving, depositing and holding an angle iron (4) according to any one of claims 28 to 39 and at least one device for ensuring a rigid, permanent association of the angle iron (4) deposited and maintained on the load (1 ) by said device (14) with the load (1) or a packaging element thereof, the two devices operating in a coordinated manner.

41. Packaging machine according to claim 40, characterized in that a device for ensuring a rigid, permanent association of the angle iron (4) deposited and maintained on the load (1) with the latter or an element of packaging thereof is chosen from the group comprising: a device for surrounding and applying to the load (1) and the angle iron (4) a strip; a device for bonding, welding, stapling, clipping, bonding the angle iron (4) to the load (1) or a packaging element thereof; a device for folding down the edge of an end plate or frame ensuring the wedging of the angle; a machine for overwrapping the palletized load, the overwrapping film ensuring at least the function of retaining the angle iron (4).

42. Packaging machine according to any one of claims 39, 40, characterized in that it is associated with it, functionally downstream a machine for overpacking the load with the angle bar rigidly associated and permanently having the essential function the overpacking of the load.

43. Packaging machine according to claim 42, characterized in that the load overwrapping machine having the essential function of overwrapping the latter is chosen from the group comprising: curtain machines, wrapping machines, hooding machines.

44. Packaging machine according to claim 40, characterized in that it is functionally associated with it at least one device (51) for supplying and depositing an end plate or frame (52) on board or flap (53) foldable.

45. Packaging machine according to any one of claims 40, 41, 44, characterized in that the devices (14), for supplying or depositing (51) an end plate or frame (52 ), (54) to fold the edge or flap (53) thereof are functionally associated according to a sequence chosen from the group comprising the following sequences Î the device (51) for depositing an end plate or frame ( 52) is first implemented, then the device (54) for folding down the edge (53), finally the device (14), the angle iron (4) then being placed towards the outside of the folded edge (53); the device (14) and the device for removing (51) a plate or frame (52) are first implemented then the device (54) for folding the edge (53) the angle iron (4) then being placed towards the inside of the folded edge (3).

46. Packaging machine according to claim 40, characterized in that the overwrapping machine ensuring at least the holding function of the angle iron (4) is chosen from the group comprising: curtain machines, wrapping machines, hooding machines.

47. Packaging machine according to any one of claims 40, 41, 42, characterized in that the same overwrapping machine performs both the function of maintaining the angle iron and that of the actual overwrapping of the load. .

48. Packaging machine according to claim 47, characterized in that the device (14) and the device to ensure a rigid association are structurally distinct.

49. Packaging machine according to claim 48, characterized in that the device (14) and the device for ensuring a rigid association are structurally at least partly common.

50. Machine for packaging a load (l) comprising at least one rigid protective angle (4) on at least one edge (3) of the load (1) with packaging film (2) surrounding the load and applied to it, characterized in that it comprises:

- support means (8) for charging;

supply means (9) for packaging film;

- movable means (10) for allowing the recovery of a load (1) carried by the support means

(8) with the film (2) coming from the supply means

(9);

- And at least one device for gripping, moving, depositing and holding (14) a protective angle (4) according to any one of claims 28 to 39.

51. Packaging machine according to claim 50, characterized in that it comprises a plurality of gripping, moving, depositing and holding devices (14) of protective angles (4) substantially similar to each other for the same plurality of load edges (3) 6 β

(1) to be packed.

52. A packaging machine according to claim 51, characterized in that the general longitudinal directions (19b) of the magazine openings (15) of the gripping, moving, depositing and holding devices (14) are substantially parallel to one another; their support arms (20) lie substantially in the same common plane, the devices (14) are distributed around an area adjacent to the support means (8) in which the load (1) is located; and the general control means ensure the synchronous operation of the plurality of devices (14), the plurality of gripping and holding means (22) being the most distant and the closest to each other respectively in the gripping positions on the one hand and removal and maintenance on the other.

53. Packaging machine according to any one of claims 50 to 52, characterized in that the load support means (8) are a table with a substantially vertical axis; the movable means (10) for allowing the covering of a load (1) with the film (2) comprise means for ensuring a relative pivoting of the table around its axis relative to the axis of the film reel; and a device (14) for gripping, moving, depositing and holding comprises a magazine (15) of general longitudinal direction (19a) vertical, the lower end (40) of which is substantially coplanar with the table (8).

54. Packaging machine according to claim 53, characterized in that it comprises four devices for seizure, movement, deposit and maintenance (14).

55. A packaging machine according to any one of claims 53, 54, characterized in that the table (8) is fixed; the means for supplying (9) packaging film and covering the load with said film comprise a ring (12) supporting a film reel, substantially coaxial with the table (8), mounted to slide vertically along of the said axis between a lower position close to the plane of the table (8) and a distant upper position, or means for supporting the film reel equivalent and ensuring the same path to the film reel, said crown (12) defining a path for the vertical axis of a reel of film strip; the devices (14) for gripping, moving, depositing and holding being essentially placed outside and near said crown (12) and its path.

56. Packaging machine according to any one of claims 53, 54, characterized in that the table (8) is mounted to be able to pivot around its axis 11; the means for feeding (9) the packaging film and covering the load with the said film comprise a carriage carried by a column (50) generally sliding vertically; this machine also comprising a device (54) for folding down an edge or flap (53) of an end plate or frame (52, 52b) carried in free pivoting by an axis (48) coaxial with the axis (11) , carried by a bracket (49) carried by sliding by the column (50).

57. Device for supplying and depositing (51) an end plate or frame (52) with flap (53), intended for 70

a packaging machine according to any one of claims 40 to 56, characterized in that it comprises:

- a frame (58);

- at least one magazine (59) for the plates or frames (51);

- Grasping means (60) of a plate or frame (52) being in the active state or in the inactive state;

- support means (61), gripping means (60);

- drive means (62), support means (61) between a gripping location or the gripping means are located in or near the overload opening (63) of the magazine (59) and a location removal or the gripping means are located in or near the area where the plate or frame (51) must be on the load (1);

- Control means coordinating the operation of gripping means (60) and driving means (62).

58. Device according to claim 57, characterized in that a magazine (59) is arranged to allow a stack of plates or frames (51) placed horizontally, the discharge opening (63) being upper.

59. Device according to claim 57, characterized in that the magazine (59) has a common discharge opening (63) and reloading in plates or frames.

60. Device according to claim 57, characterized in that the gripping means (60) are vacuum suction cups.

61. Device according to claim 57, characterized in that the drive means (62) are arranged to ensure a double vertical and horizontal sliding respectively for on the one hand the gripping operation and that of depositing on the other hand the operation of moving from one location to another.

62. Device according to any one of claims 57 to 61, characterized in that the frame

(58) is partly common to the packaging machine without interfering with the movable members thereof, in particular placed above and outwards; and the magazine (59) is placed horizontally next to the packaging machine.

63. Device according to any one of claims 57 to 62, characterized in that it comprises several magazines (59) and means ensuring a relative displacement of magazines (59) and support means (61).

64. Device according to any one of claims 57 to 63, characterized in that a magazine (59) comprises a device (64) ensuring a constant level of grip in the magazine (59) whatever its degree of filling, such as a lifting table.

65. Device (54) for folding down a flap (53) of an end plate or frame (52), intended for a packaging machine according to any one of claims 40 to 57, characterized in that He understands :

- a frame (65);

- At least one member (66) for flap movement carried by the frame movably between an inactive position or. the flap (53) can be placed substantially coplanar with the plate or frame and an active position or the flap (53) is placed substantially orthogonally to the plate or frame;

- drive means (67) of the movable member (66) between its two positions.

66. Device according to claim 65, characterized in that it forms an isolated structural unit.

67. Device according to claim 65, characterized in that it is incorporated in a supply and deposit device (51) according to any one of claims 63 to 70, the frame (65) being incorporated in the support means (61) in the general form of a plate at the periphery of which is located at least one member (66), the drive means (67) being carried by the plate (65), the control means ensuring the coordination of movement of the organ (66).

68. Device according to claim 67, characterized in that the member (66) is in the form of a finger pivotally mounted on the frame plate (65) along one of its edges, the finger (66) being in the inactive position substantially coplanar with the frame plate (65) and directed outward and, in the active position substantially orthogonal to the frame plate (65) and directed towards the gripping means.

69. Device according to claim 65, characterized in that it is incorporated into an overwrapping machine by being carried in free pivoting by an axis (48) thereof coaxial with that (11) and the table (8) , this axis (48) being itself carried by a bracket (49) slidably mounted on a column (50).

70. Device according to claim 65, characterized in that it is incorporated into a table (8) of packaging machine provided with passage opening (68).