US20080314003A1

Movatterモバイル変換

Info

Publication number: US20080314003A1
Application number: US11/574,802
Authority: US
Inventors: Franco Goglio; Marco Verri
Original assignee: Goglio SpA
Current assignee: Goglio SpA
Priority date: 2004-09-07
Filing date: 2005-09-07
Publication date: 2008-12-25
Also published as: WO2006027665A1; ITBO20040548A1

Abstract

A machine for making packs (2) of infusion products, created by a first sheet (21) of packaging material, forming a recess, in which a batched quantity of product (20) is placed, and a second sheet (22) of packaging material, applied on the first sheet (21) of packaging material and joined thereto peripherally. The machine includes a work assembly (30) for feeding the first sheets (21) to a carrousel (10), operated to rotate on a horizontal axis, in suitable step relation with the feeding of the sheets. The carrousel (10) has, made on its periphery, an ordered series of cavities (11), which receive the first sheets (21) for forming thereon, a respective recess, whose shape is suitable for containing the batched quantity of product (20). A filling group (40) introduces the batched quantity of product (20) into the recess formed on the first sheets (21), connected to the cavities (11) of the carrousel (10). A group (50) for feeding single second sheets (22) joins mutually the first and second sheets (21, 22) in an area all around the recess filled the batched quantities of product (20). A discharge work assembly (610) removes the packed products (2) from the carrousel (10).

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a machine for making packs of infusion products, in particular coffee and the like.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There are packs of infusion products used to obtain, by suitable machines, beverages like coffee or similar.

These packs are usually called “pods”.

In particular, the pods include a first sheet of filter paper, which forms a recess, containing a batched quantity of product, and a second sheet of filter paper, joined peripherally to the first sheet, so as to close the pack.

The sheets of filter paper are usually made of heat-weldable material.

Different types of machines have been worked out for producing the pod packs.

These machines usually feed a first band of filter paper to a forming station, in which an ordered series of recesses are made on the band, arranged along one row or more rows situated one beside another.

The so obtained recessed band is fed, in a substantially linear feeding direction, to a filling station, where the batched quantities of product are put into the single recesses.

A second band of filter paper is then applied to the first one and welded thereto, peripherally with respect to the recesses.

Thus, the band is cut around each recess, usually having a circular profile, so as to obtain single packs.

Particularly stepwise operated machines are used in the field for packing infusion products.

In the above machines, the packing cycle requires dwelling of the band of filter paper for a time necessary to perform each single processing operation, aimed at completing of the product packing.

Therefore, the production cycle of these machines is interrupted as many times as many operations are to be performed in order to obtain the pack.

Moreover, the duration of each dwell is defined by the minimum time required for the respective processing.

Also machines operating continuously are used, that is machines, in which the processed products are managed continuously, without any break for performing necessary processing.

The above type of packaging machines includes machines, which work tangentially and machines, which work along production lines.

In order to perform each processing, the tangentially working machines usually use a pair of carrousels, cooperating in a region corresponding to only one tangent point.

In practice, the items are fed to suitable work stations, situated on the first rotating carrousel, while the respective work assembly is situated on the second rotating carrousel, operated continuously in suitable step relation with the first one.

These machines perform only one operation with each pair of carrousels and they can perform efficiently only short and very simple operations in the position corresponding to the only tangent point, at which the work station is connected to the respective work assembly.

The continuous machines operating on parallel lines can be used for more complicated packaging operations, which requires considerable time intervals.

In these machines, each processing operation is performed by a wok assembly carried by a conveyor, which joins the conveying line, on which the items are conveyed, along a section necessary for carrying out the operation item. Joining of the conveyor and the conveying line, which are usually belt conveyors, occurs when the single item and the respective work assembly move with the same speed, so as to allow processing operations requiring some time.

However, the machines operating on parallel lines can be cumbersome, and thus require high costs due to the need of production spaces, especially when the processing operations to be performed are numerous and complicated.

There are also machines, which work continuously in axial directions, e.g. compressing, plug-applying machines, etc.

These machines are complex and cumbersome and they have only one work assembly.

Thus, the known machines have considerable limitations related to the productivity and functionality, and they usually have a complicated structure, difficult to manage in the available spaces.

In the specific case of the machines for packaging infusion products, considerable disadvantages derive particularly from the fact that they package a plurality of products arranged adjacent to one another on a band being processed.

Actually, these machines usually produce a significant amount of scraps of filter paper, deriving from the cutting single packs, forming the pods, from the processed band, which results in the increase of production costs.

The remarkable quantity of scraps mentioned above is especially due to the need to change the size, when necessary, for obtaining pods having different dimensions from a band with constant width.

Since the band must contain anyway the dimensions of the pods, the percentage of wasted material, can be rather high.

Another disadvantage of the prior art machines derives from the limits imposed by the type of filter paper, which can be used, in particular regarding the paper thickness.

Actually, the requirements of mechanical resistance, connected to the band pulling steps, exclude the use of thin or soft paper.

A further disadvantage of the prior art machines is the limited number of the packs obtainable on the filter paper band in rows arranged one beside another.

Usually, there are no more than two parallel rows of recesses, because of the necessity to prepare mechanical means working on the band sides, as well as because of the tensions created on the band between the rows.

Obviously, this limits the machine production capability.

Moreover, possible damage to one row of recesses, e.g. tearing, are easily transmitted to the row beside.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The object of the present invention is to resolve the above problems, by proposing a machine for making packs of infusion products, which allows efficient processing, optimizing the production rate and reducing the waste of packaging material.

Another object of the present invention is to propose machine, whose structure allows use of any type of packaging material, in particular as afar as thickness, nature, weft, and permeability thereof are concerned.

Within the above objects, it is a further object of the present invention that of proposing a machine for making packs of infusion products, whose concept is simple, working reliable, use versatile, and dimensions reduced.

The above mentioned objects are obtained, in accordance with the contents of the claims, by the machine for making packs of infusion products, including a first sheet of packaging material, forming a recess, in which a batched quantity of product is placed, and a second sheet of packaging material, applied on said first sheet of packaging material and joined thereto along its outline characterized in that it includes at least one work assembly for feeding said first sheets of packaging material; a carrousel, operated into rotation on a horizontal axis, in a suitable step relation the feeding of said first sheets and having, made on its periphery, an ordered series of cavities for receiving and forming a respective recess, whose shape is suitable for containing said batched quantity of product; filling group for introducing said batched quantity of product into said recess formed on said first sheets; a group for feeding single second sheets of packaging material to said carrousel in positions corresponding to said fist sheets filled with said batched quantity of product, and for joining mutually said sheets in an area all around said filled recess; a discharge assembly, which moves said packs away from said cavities of said carrousel

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The characteristic features of the invention are pointed out in the following description, with particular reference to the enclosed Figures, in which:

FIG. 1 is a front view of a machine for making packs of infusion products, proposed by the present invention;

FIGS. 2 and 3 are respective axonometric, enlarged views of an infusion product as it appears in subsequent working steps;

FIGS. 4A and 4B are respective, partial, front views of the above carrousel connected to a work assembly;

FIG. 5 is a partial, top view of the above mentioned cavities made on the carrousel;

FIGS. 6,7 and15 are views of particulars of the above mentioned carrousel and of a general work assembly, connected thereto;

Figures from8 to14 show different views and enlarged particulars of the above mentioned work assembly for feeding a first sheet of filter paper;

Figures from16 to19 are different views of the above filling group of the proposed machine;

Figures from20 to23 are different views of the above mentioned work assembly for feeding a second sheet of filter paper;

Figures from24 to27 are views of the above mentioned work assembly for discharging the packed product, in subsequent working steps.

BEST MODES OF CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Having regards to the above Figures, the reference numeral1 indicates a machine for making packs2 for infusion products, in particular pods for preparing, by means of suitable machines, infusion beverages like coffee or the like.

The packs2 include afirst sheet21 of filter paper, with a recess made therein for receiving a batched quantity ofproduct20, and asecond sheet22 of filter paper, joined to the first one along the edge, so as to close the pack2 (SeeFIGS. 2 and 3).

The

sheets

21,22 are made of heat-weldable material.

The machine1 includes acarrousel10, carried, with possibility of rotation on a horizontal axis, by amotor shaft12 supported astationary frame13 of the machine.

Thecarrousel10 is driven into rotation, preferably with continuous motion, by motor means of known type, not shown.

Thecarrousel10 has an ordered series ofcavities11, made along its edge and aimed at receiving single first sheets while being formed.

Thecavities11 are preferably arranged in more rows, one beside another, as shown inFIG. 5.

Thecavities11 are aimed at being set in communication with suction means, not shown, by respective suction conduits, so as to hold the above first sheets21 (seeFIGS. 11A,11B).

A plurality of

satellite devices

3,4,5,6 cooperate with thecarrousel10, preferably according to the method for continuous processing of items, proposed by the contemporary Patent Application No. B02004A 000545 filed on Sep. 7, 2004 by the same Applicant.

In particular, according to the shown embodiment, there are four satellite devices, which carry respectively workassemblies30 for feeding and formingfirst sheets21,work assemblies40 for filling the recess made on thefirst sheets21 with a batched quantity ofproduct20,work assemblies50 for feeding and closing singlesecond sheets22 andwork assemblies60 for cutting the so obtained pack2.

As it is more precisely shown in the above mentioned Patent Application, the

satellite devices

3,4,5,6, carrying the

respective work assemblies

30,40,50,60, are aimed at being driven into rotation on an axis parallel to the one of thecarrousel10, so as to connect the above mentioned

single work assemblies

30,40,50,60 to respective work stations located in regions corresponding to the rows ofcavities11, arranged along the edge of thecarrousel10.

More precisely, the general satellite device S, shown inFIGS. 4A and 4B, includes four general work assemblies G, arranged angularly and offset with respect to the center of the device, aimed at withdrawing items from a general withdrawing station P and at transferring them to respective work stations (cavities11 in fact) of thecarrousel10; the work assemblies G move in synchrony with thecavities11 along an angular path included between an engaging initial angular position α1 and a disengaging final angular position α2.

Likewise, the work assemblies G can perform a reverse action to withdraw items from the work station (cavities11), so as to transfer them to the discharging stations P.

In particular, each satellite device S includes adisc23, mounted idle, by rolling bearings means, on an axis integral to the machinestationary frame13.

Thedisc23, carries, in positions offset with respect to the center, onesleeve24 for each work assembly, with a respectivetoothed wheel25, rotating idly on a fulcrum F, coinciding with the axis of thesleeve24.

Thetoothed wheel25 can rotate freely by means of suitable roll bearings means on the sleeve (see e.g.FIG. 12)

The fulcrum F is aimed at describing a circumference, concentric with the axis of the satellite device S, and indicated with broken line B inFIGS. 4A and 4B.

The circumference C intersects a circumference, concentric with the axis of thecarrousel10, indicated with broken line B inFIGS. 4A and 4B, in two points corresponding to the above mentioned initial position α1 and final angular position α2.

When thecavity11 is coupled to the respective work assembly G, thecarrousel10 drives the satellite device S into rotation with an angular speed, which depends on the path defined between the initial angular position α1 and final angular position α2.

A guidingelement26 is fastened to eachtoothed wheel25, by known fastening means.

Acarriage27 slides inside the guidingelement26 and supports a respective work assembly G.

The sliding of thecarriage27 along the guidingelement26 is obtained by means of e.g. a prismatic coupling with grooved guides28 (seeFIG. 15).

Thecarriage27 carries, integrally cantilevered, abracket29, aimed at relating to and coupling with respective coupling means14 of the respective work station, formed by one row of cavities11: these means are preferably magnetic means, of the type protected by the Patent Application No. BO2004A 000547, filed on Sep. 7, 2004 by the Applicant.

Thebracket29 carries centering means290, e.g. a conical pin, aimed at engaging with a correspondingcoupling seat140, made on the coupling means14 (seeFIG. 6).

Advantageously, the centering means290 include suitable absorbing means291, e.g. elastic or hydraulic, aimed at absorbing possible impacts deriving from the connection of the row ofcavities11 with the respective work assembly G.

FIG. 7 shows additional coupling means141 of mechanical type, aimed at fastening thecarriage27 to thecarrousel10.

The additional coupling means141 include alever142, carried oscillating on apin143, integral with thecarrousel10 and forming a hook, aimed at engaging with atooth144 integral with thecarriage27.

Thelever142 carries aroller145, which is aimed at following afront cam146, fastened to the machinestationary frame13, so as to make thelever142 rotate angularly between a coupling position, determined by aspring147, and anuncoupling position142a.

Thesleeve24 has anaxial hole240, through which suitable operating means241 and locking means242 operate.

In particular, the

means

241,242 include respectively acylindrical sleeve243 and a push rod, fastened axially to astem244 sliding axially inside thecylindrical sleeve243.

Thecylindrical sleeve243 slides axially inside theaxial hole240. The above mentioned means241, as well as themeans242 are operated by a cam mechanism so as to translate move axially.

In particular, the operating means241 are moved by a first axial,motionless cam245, fastened coaxial to thedisc23, and by afirst roller246, carried by afirst bracket247, integral with thecylindrical sleeve243.

Likewise, the locking means242 are operated by a second, axial,motionless cam248, coaxial with thedisc23, and by asecond roll249, carried by asecond bracket250, integral with the stemcylindrical sleeve244, so as to move axially.

The push rod, carried by thestem244, is aimed at translating from a rear position up to a fore position, protruding from the guidingelement26 through a respective hole, in order to engage a hollow251 made on thecarriage27, so as to block the motion of thecarriage27.

Eachtoothed wheel25 engages with a respectiveidle wheel31, rotatably carried on thedisc23, which in turn engages with a central,motionless wheel32, coaxial with thedisc23 of the satellite device S.

The central,motionless wheel32 has a toothless down-steppedsection33, whose extension corresponds to the angular path, in which the work assembly G is matches the row ofcavities11 of thecarrousel10.

In the shown example, the down-stepped section extends through 90°, (seeFIG. 4A).

In practice, the gear formed by the central,motionless wheel32 and theidle wheels31, is aimed at driving thetoothed wheels25 into rotation on its fulcrum F, supporting the work assemblies G, during an idling step, while the presence of the down-steppedsection33 disengages the work assembly G from the motion transmission during the active step.

In the shown case, the machine includes afirst satellite device3, carrying fourwork assemblies30 for feeding and formingfirst sheets21, supported by asmany carriages27, as described before.

Thesheets21 are advantageously fed by anapparatus300, to form single sheets of packaging material, described in a more precise way in the contemporaneous Patent Application No. B02004A 00542 filed on Sep. 7, 2004 by the same Applicant.

The feeding and forminggroups30 withdraw singlefirst sheets21 in a first withdrawingstation310, situated in a position corresponding to amachine300, transfer thesheets21 to a respective row ofcavities11 of thecarrousel10 and finally, form, on the latter, recesses suitable for containing batched quantity ofproduct20.

In particular, saidwork assemblies30 withdraw and form the singlefirst sheets21, according to a system for transferring items from a withdrawing station to a work station, disclosed in another contemporaneous Patent Application No. B02004A 00546 filed on Sep. 7, 2004 by the same Applicant.

As it is better shown in the above mentioned Patent Application, the feeding and forming means30 (see Figures from8 to14), include an actuator element34, aimed at driving a plurality ofunits35, carried by respective stems36, so as to move orthogonal with respect to the axis of the satellite device.

The actuator element34 includes e.g. a mechanism operated by the previously describedcylindrical sleeve243.

In particular, thecylindrical sleeve243 is rigidly connected to abracket340, which, in turn, carries atie rod544, extending parallel to the rotation axis of thecarrousel10.

Toggles

341 are connected to the tie rod, to operate the stems, carrying theunits35 to move synchronously in an axial direction.

Each unit includes aplatform35a,keyed onto thestem36, ahead35b, ashaft37, aimed at connecting theplatform35ato thehead35b, and self-levelingmeans38, situated between theplatform35aand thehead35b(seeFIG. 14).

Theshaft37, onto which thehead35bis keyed, is fastened to theplatform35ain known way and it can oscillate with respect thereto within a prefixed 3D angle.

The above oscillation is allowed by the width of aseat380 made in theplatform35a,concentric to thestem36, inside which the shaft is introduced freely.

The self-levelingmeans38 include preferably threepush rods381, spaced apart angularly and equidistant with respect to the axis of theplatform35a;elastic means382, preferably disc springs, are situated between theplatform35aand eachpush rod381.

Eachpush rod381 slides axially in arelated hole383, made in theplatform35a,and engages with a correspondingconical seat384, made in theinner surface350 of thehead35bturned toward theplatform35a.

Thehead35a,of e.g. with squared horizontal cross-section, includes a body having aninner surface350 and anouter surface351, andgroups352, for example four.

Eachgroup352 intersects the body of thehead35balong its whole depth and is located at a corresponding corner.

Theouter surface351 of the above body has preferably acircular impression353, centered with respect to the axis of thehead35b(seeFIGS. 8 and 9).

In particular, the abovecircular impression353 is aimed at forming afirst sheet21, according to the shape of thecavities11 made on thecarrousel10. Known heating means, not shown, supply the amount of heat necessary to form the abovefirst sheets21.

Eachgroup352 includes asleeve354, agripping group355 and a lever355 (seeFIG. 10).

Thesleeve354 can slide axially with respect to the inside of thehead35bbody and protrudes with respect to the upper part of theinner surface350 of a threadedpart357, engaged with anut358 and alocknut359.

At the other end, thesleeve354 forms aflat surface360, whose portion coupled with the abovecircular impression353, has curved cross-section (seeFIG. 9).

The axial sliding of thesleeve354 is contrasted by preloadedelastic means361, situated between the sleeve and thehead35b, and limited by the abutment of thenut358 against theinner surface350 of thehead35bbody.

Thegripping group355 is situated inside thesleeve354, inside which it can slide axially against the preloadedelastic means362, situated between thesleeve354 and the group.

This axial sliding is limited by afirst end stop363, defined by the abutment of thehead364, carried by a relative stem and forming an end of thegripping group355, against the outer surface of the threadedpart357 of thesleeve354.

The abovefirst end stop363 defines a first outer idle point of the group.

Thegripping group355 includes, on its outer side, ahead365, which carries a plurality ofneedles366, e.g. four, arranged in correspondence to the corners of a square.

Alever556, orthogonal with respect to the axis of thegripping group355, transits in a throughhole367, made in thesleeve354.

The outer surface of thehead365 is flat and coplanar with theflat surface360, when thegripping group355 goes in abutment against thefirst end stop363.

The abutment of thenut358 against theinner surface350 of thehead35bbody, defines a second end stop386, which identifies a second outer idle point for axial sliding of thesleeve354.

In particular, the coupling of thenut358 and thelocknut359 with the threading of the threadedpart357 is performed in such a way, that, if no outer stresses act on theflat surface360, it protrudes from theouter surface351.

Theflat surface360 protrudes with respect to theouter surface351 of thehead35bbody by a quantity, which can be adjusted by the regulation of thenut358 on the threadedpart357.

Eachneedle366 includes apoint366a,preferably conical, and ashank366b, rigidly fastened to thehead365.

As shown inFIG. 11a,the first withdrawingstation310 has a substantially flat withdrawingsurface311, which, in the given working configurations, face arespective head35band hasrecesses312, whose number is equal to the number of thegroups352, and whose depth is at least equal to the length of theneedles366.

The cross-section of eachrecess312 defines a polygon, which contains the one defined by the tips of theneedles366 fastened to eachhead365.

Finally, the respective work station on thecarrousel10 hasblock abutments15, situated at the side of eachcavity11, in a number equal to the number of thegroups353, so that each block abutment goes into contact with a respective lever356 to raise thehead365 of thegripping group355 to theflat surface360 of thesleeve354.

Downstream of thefirst satellite device3, along the feeding direction A of thecarrousel10, the machine1 includes a second satellite device4, carrying fourwork assemblies40 for filling batched quantities ofproduct20, supplied by anapparatus400 for batching powder products, according to the method and the same apparatus described in another contemporary Patent Application No. BO2004A 000543 filed on Sep. 7, 2004 by the same Applicant.

Each filling group40 (see Figures from16 to19) is aimed at withdrawing a series of batched quantities ofproduct20 from a respective second withdrawingstation410 of theapparatus400, situated above thecarrousel10, at transferring the above batchedquantities20 to a respective row ofcavities11, where respective formedfirst sheets21 are situated, and finally, at compressing at he above batchedquantities20 against theabove cavities11 covered with thefirst sheets21.

In particular, eachwork assembly40 includes abody40a,with introduced thereinside, a plurality ofplungers41, carried by respective grooved stems42.

Mechanisms withtoggles43, as the ones described for the feeding and forminggroups30, operate the grooved stems42 into axial motion between a rear configuration and a fore configuration.

In particular, the mechanism withtoggles43 is operated by atie rod644 guided by abracket640, fastened to the push rod, connected to thestem244, which is operated by acam mechanism248 androller249 like the ones already described.

Theplungers41 forms each aconcave head41a,aimed at hollow a respective batched quantity ofproduct20.

The shape of theconcave head41ais preferably complementary to the shape of thecavity11, so as obtain a whole of a pod.

A second mechanism44, operated by thesleeve243, controlled by acam mechanism245 androller246, already illustrated, controls a series ofshutter devices45, aimed at allowing, during respective working steps, the passage of two batchedquantities20 from the second withdrawingstations410 to theconcave heads41aof theplungers41, the strong holding of the batchedquantities20 against theconcave heads41aduring the transferring to respective work stations, and finally, the discharge of thequantities20 in correspondence torespective cavities11, covered with thefirst sheets21.

In particular, eachshutter device45 forms preferably a plate of fourlobes450, overlapping a portion of the outer surface of thebody40a,which engages a pair ofplungers41, situated one beside another.

Theplate450 is rotatably carried on apin451, in a median position between the above pair ofplungers41, coaxial with the grooved stems42 (seeFIG. 18).

The plate of fourlobes450 has also a pair ofopposite openings452, whose shape allows the passage of a respective batchedquantity20.

In the shown example, theopenings452 have a substantially circular shape.

Thepin451 is driven to rotate by asleeve243, integral with arack46, parallel to the axis of the satellite device4.

Therack46 engages with anintermediate wheel47, which in turn, engages with apinion48, keyed onto thepin451, driving it into rotation.

In practice, during some working steps, theopenings452 overlap respectiveconcave heads41a,freeing the passage to the respective batchedquantities20, while during other working steps, the same openings are turned with respect to the previous configuration and the four-lobe plate450 acts as a cover situated above theconcave heads41a.

During the active step of therespective work assembly40, the grooved stems42 rotate continuously.

In fact, the grooved stems42 are introduced coaxial into the grooved hub of respectivetoothed wheels49, which are operated, by the interposition of suitable idle wheelsidle wheels490, from a singleconical pinion491, situated below, engaged with a fixedtoothed crown492, arranged coaxial with thecarrousel10.

In particular, theconical pinion491 is carried by ashaft493, arranged parallel to the grooved stems42.

Theshaft493 is house, in a passing through condition, in asuitable seat494, made in thebody40aof therespective filling group40.

Advantageously, theshaft493 has asuitable shoulder495, situated inside theseat494.

Suitable, preloadedelastic means496 act between theseat494 and theshoulder495, so as to ensure a firm engagement between theconical pinion491 and the fixedtoothed crown492, in the beginning of the active step of therespective filling group40.

Athird satellite device5, situated downstream of the second satellite device4, carries fourwork assemblies50 for feeding and closing thesecond sheets22.

Each of the fourwork assemblies50 is aimed at withdrawingsecond sheets22 from anapparatus300 for forming single sheets of packaging material, in a first withdrawing station310 (seeFIG. 1), at transferring and feeding the abovesecond sheets22 to respective recesses, already filled with the batchedquantity20 of product, and at closing the so formed pack by heat-welding.

Theapparatus300 for forming singlesecond sheets22 is quite identical to the apparatus for formingfirst sheets21.

Likewise, the above mentionedwork assemblies50 include feeding and forminggroups30, described previously, with the only differences explained below.

First of all, theheads35bof theunits35 include respectivecircular impressions51, concave not convex, since thesecond sheets22 must cover respective cavities, already filled with product (seeFIGS. 21 and 22).

Further, thesame heads35binclude, situated thereinside, aheating member52 of known type, aimed at heating thefirst sheets21 and thesecond sheets22, in order to heat-weld them.

In particular, theheating member52 is e.g. ring-like and is introduced, outside thecircular impression51, inside thehead35bin the joining area (see Figures from20 to23).

Finally, the machine1 includes afourth satellite device6, carrying fourrespective work assemblies60, aimed at trimming peripherally the so obtained packs and at allowing the latter to move away from the respective work stations formed by the rows of cavities11 (see Figures from24 to27).

In particular, each trimminggroup60 includes abracket61, parallel to the axis of the satellite device

Thebracket61 haspins62, orthogonal thereto, hinged to thetoggle mechanisms63 of the previously described type.

Themechanisms63 are controlled by a respectivecylindrical sleeve243, operated in turn, as it has been said previously, by a respective cam mechanism.

In practice, thebracket61 moves between a rear configuration and a fore configuration, in which the packaging material is trimmed.

Thebracket61 carries, orthogonal thereto, a plurality of trimmingunits64, aimed at trimming scraps of filter paper from the respective packages.

In particular, the trimmingunits64 are keyed intosuitable seats61amade in thebracket61.

Each trimmingunit64 includes a shapedhead65, a trimming cup-like blade66, and apaper pressing cup67.

The shapedhead65 slides axially and carries, on one end, animpression68, aimed at hollow the product packaged during the trimming and discharge steps.

When the product to pack is a two-shell-like pack, theimpression68 forms a concave recess, substantially equal to a half product, but it is also possible to pack one-shell-like products, by using substantiallyflat impressions68.

Likewise, it is possible to obtain packages of other forms.

The shapedhead65 has also, in the region corresponding to theimpression68,suction ducts69, which lead to aninner chamber70, connected to known suction means, not shown.

The suction means are aimed at keeping the packaged product in adherence within theimpression68 during the transferring to a respective discharge station610 (FIG. 27).

In the shown case, the shapedhead65 is made in two parts, however it can be made also in one piece or in another way, according to the constructive preferences.

At the end opposite to theimpression68, the shapedhead65 forms asleeve65a,having a terminal threadedportion65b.

Anut71 and alocknut72 are coupled with the terminal threadedportion65b.

The trimmingcup blade66 forms, at its lower end, a blade of continuous shape, e.g. circular, and, at its upper end, it carries asleeve66a,keyed axially outside thesleeve65a.

The longitudinal extension of thesleeve66ais smaller than the extension of thehollow sleeve65a,so that the terminal part of thesleeve66ais situated below thenut71.

Moreover, thesleeve66ahas also a threaded end, to be tightened with arespective nut85, in abutment against theouter surface61bof thebracket61.

The tightening blocks the downward sliding of thesleeve66a.

Anyway, it is sufficient to change the tightening of thenut85 or of thenut71 and thelocknut72, to adjust the relative positioning of the trimming cup-blade and of the shapedhead65.

Finally, thepaper pressing cup67 forms substantially an overturned cup, keyed onto thesleeve66aof the trimmingcup blade66 through acentral hole74, made on theflat surface75 of thepressing cup67.

In particular, this coupling is preferably made with a clearance and in such a way that thepaper pressing cup67 slides on thesleeve66a.

Thepaper pressing cup67 forms, at its lower end, anedge76, with a wedge shape, aimed at pushing, in abutment against thecarrousel10, a respectivepaper pressing seat77, e.g. ring-like, situated outside thecavity11.

The axial positioning of thepaper pressing cup67 is determined byelastic means78, interposed between the upperflat surface75 of the beaker and theseat61aof thebracket61, in a position corresponding to arespective abutment79, made therein.

Apush rods device80 positions axially the trimmingcup blade66.

Thepush rods device80 includes preferably threepegs81, equidistant and regularly spaced apart with respect to the axis of the workingunit64.

Eachpeg81 is introduced, passing therethrough, inside

holes

178,179, made respectively in thebracket61 and in thepaper pressing cup67.

Eachpeg81 includes, at the respective ends, ahead81a,in abutment against the upper surface of thebracket61, and a substantially half-spherical push rod81b, which goes in contact with a respectiveflat surface82, situated at the bottom of a respective hollow, made on the top of the trimmingcup blade66.

Acollar83, formed by thepeg81 above thepush rod81b, acts as abutment for respective preloaded elastic means84, aimed at maintaining the coupling of thehead81awith the upper surface of the bracket61 (seeFIG. 25B).

Acounter-blade seat185 is located in thecarrousel10, between thecavity11 and thepaper pressing seat77, so as to match the trimmingcup blade66 during the trimming step, when the trimmingunit64 is in the fore position.

Withdrawing means90, situated downstream of the trimmingsatellite device6, are carried, with possibility to rotate, by ashaft91, coaxial with the carrousel.

The withdrawing means90 form substantially a star device, which has a withdrawingunit92 at the head of each radial rod.

Eachunit92 is aimed at withdrawing, e.g. by known suction means, the packages2 of a row, kept by respective shapedheads65, so as to transfer them to the subsequent production or storage areas.

The operation of the machine for making packs of infusion products is described now, with reference to the described embodiment.

However, other embodiments, e.g. stepwise operation or other ways, remain within the protective scope of the present invention.

According to the illustrated embodiment, thecarrousel10 is operated to move continuously on theshaft12, in the direction indicated with the arrow A.

Generally, when a row ofcavities11 of thecarrousel10 and a work assembly G carried by a general satellite device S are situated at the respective initial angular position a1, the coupling means14 act, so as to refer and couple thecarriage27, supporting the work assembly G, to the row ofcavities11, in a reliable way, so as to perform a given operation on thecavities11 of thecarrousel10.

Then, thecarrousel10 rotates theidle disc23 of the satellite device S, carrying the active work assembly G.

In particular, the fulcrum F of the work assembly G covers a circumference portion B of the satellite device S, included between the initial angular position a1 and the final angular position α2.

What above is possible, because the guidingelement26 of the above mentionedcarriage27, carrying the active work assembly G, is free to rotate on its fulcrum F, since itsidle wheel31 is disengaged from the central,motionless wheel32, as engaged with the toothless down-steppedsection33.

Likewise, the push rod, carried by thestem244, which protrudes from thesleeve14, is in its rear position and thus, it does not engage thecarriage27, and consequently, it is free to move along the guiding element26 (FIG. 13).

In short, the active work assembly G moves, because it is solidly fastened to the row ofcavities11 of thecarrousel10.

In practice, the active work assembly G, pulled by thecarrousel10, performs a double rotational movement, about the fulcrum F, and a radial movement with respect to thecarrousel10 along the guidingelement26.

It is to be pointed out that, during the active step, thecarriage27 is always arranged radial with respect to the carrousel10 (FIGS. 4A and 4B).

The relative speed of the active work assembly G with respect to the row ofcavities11, to which it is connected, is zero, so as to make it possible to perform the respective operation during the angular path, from the initial angular position a1 to the final one α2.

During the operations performed by the active work assembly G, the remaining non-active work assemblies G, carried by the same satellite device S, rotate on their fulcrum F, due to the engagement with the central,motionless wheel32, and on the axis of the satellite device S, due to the pulling action operated by thecarrousel10 on the active work assembly G (seeFIGS. 2 and 3).

Moreover, the respective push rod, carried by thestem244, engages with therelative carriage27 and thus it prevents the translation of the supported work assembly G (FIG. 4A).

When the active work assembly G reaches the final angular position a2, the coupling means14 are deactivated, so as to move the work assembly G away from the row ofcavities11.

In parallel, the push rod carried by thestem244 slides axially, operated by a respective cam mechanism and engages with thecarriage27 of the same work assembly G, locking again its translation along the guidingelement26.

During the inactive step, each work assembly G rotates on its fulcrum F, so as to reach the initial angular position α1 in a configuration suitable for operating the coupling means14, in order to perform a further operation on the subsequent row ofcavities11, in the rotation direction A of thecarrousel10.

During the so-called “rest” step, each feeding and forminggroup30, carried by thefirst satellite device3 with possibility of rotation on its fulcrum F, reaches the configuration, in which a respective series offirst sheets21 is withdrawn from a first withdrawingstation310, situated downstream of amachine300 for forming single sheets of packaging material (seeFIGS. 11,11A, and11B).

In this condition, the centering means290 are uncoupled and the push rod carried by thestem244 engages the respective hollow251, so as to prevent the axial sliding of thecarriage27 along the guidingelement26.

Theheads35bof theunits35, carried in fore position by the actuator element34, goes in contact with the series offirst sheets21, situated on the withdrawingsurface311 of the first withdrawingstation310.

In particular, theneedles366 punch thefirst sheets21 preferably in regions corresponding to adjacent areas, which will be subsequently trimmed, and enter therecesses312.

During the punching of thefirst sheets21, theflat surface360 of thesleeve354 is aligned with the outer surface of thehead365 and it substantially touches thefirst sheets21.

During the subsequent rotation of thesatellite device3, thefirst sheets21, solidly held by theheads365 with theneedles366, are transferred to be fed to the carrousel10 (seeFIG. 12).

The feeding step begins when thework assembly30 reaches the initial angular position α1, described previously, in which the centering means290 refer to therespective coupling seat140.

In the same way, the push rod carried by thestem244 is withdrawn to disengage thecarriage27, carrying thework assembly30.

Thetoothed wheel25 is driven to rotate on the fulcrum F and on the axis of thesatellite device3, since it is pulled together with thecarrousel10.

In fact, theidle wheel31 is situated in correspondence to thegroove33 of the central,motionless wheel32.

During the angular path between the initial angular position α1 and the final angular position α2, the actuator element34 leads theunits35 to the fore configuration.

Thelevers556 are then stricken by theabutments15, which cause the raising of theheads365 with respect to the sleeve354 (seeFIG. 13B), while theflat surface360 locks peripherally thefirst sheets21 in a region corresponding to therespective cavity11.

When theunits35 feeding step is finished, thecircular impression353 abuts against the inner surface of thecavity11, to form thefirst sheet21.

Heating means (not shown) are used to transmit heat in suitable step relation with theunits35 feeding, so as to obtain preferably heat-forming of the first sheets21: in this connection see the Patent Application No. BO2004A 000544 filed on Sep. 7, 2004 by the same Applicant.

Thework assembly30 is uncoupled in the final angular position α2.

Thefirst sheets21, with the respective formed recesses, are held inside thecavities11 by suction means acting therein.

The only function of the suction means is to contrast the centrifugal force, since the shaping of the sheets, obtained by the heat-forming, is stable.

Afterwards, the second satellite device4 acts, carrying the fillinggroups40 for withdrawing the batchedquantities20 of product, filling and compressing thequantities20 on the recesses formed in thefirst sheets21, suitably situated on thecarrousel10.

A fillinggroup40 reaches the second withdrawingstation410 during the idle step.

The axial sliding of thecarriage27 is prevented, since the push rod carried by thestem244 engages the respective hollow251, while the centering means290 are free.

When thefilling group40 reaches the second withdrawingstation410, theplungers41 are in a completely withdrawn configuration, while theshutter devices45, set in contact with the withdrawing surface of thestation410, are rotated so that theopenings452 face the respective feeding openings of thebatching machine400, as well as the correspondingconcave heads41a.

In suitable step relation, the machine feeds the batchedquantities20 of product, which are received by the concave space of theconcave heads41a.

As soon as the batchedquantity20 is entirely put on theconcave head41aof theplunger41, theshutter devices45 are rotated synchronously, so as to cover theheads41aand thus prevent the batchedquantity20 from leaving during the transferring step, which occurs during the subsequent rotation of thefilling group40 on the axis of the second satellite device4.

When the respective initial angular position α1 has been reached, the fillinggroup40 matches with thecarrousel10.

Theshutter devices45, in contact with the peripheral portion of thecarrousel10, are rotated synchronously again, so that theopenings452 face theplungers41, as well as the respective row ofcavities11, with the formedfirst sheets21.

The feeding of theplungers41, operated by thetoggle mechanism43, transfers the batchedquantities20 onto the recesses formed by thefirst sheets21 and, in the final step of the stroke, compress the batchedquantities20 on thecavities11.

During this step, theconical pinion491 is engaged with the fixedtoothed crown492, so as to add a rotation movement to theplungers41 feeding, in order to uniform the compression performed on the batchedquantities20 of product.

During the subsequent step of the cycle of packaging infusion products, thethird satellite device5 intervenes, equipped withwork assemblies50 for feeding and closing thesecond sheets22.

The operation way of each of thework assemblies50 coincides with the one already described in relation to thegroups30 for feeding and forming thefirst sheets21, with the only differences explained below.

It is to be pointed out the during the active step of therespective work assembly50, thesecond sheets22 are arranged to cover respective batchedquantities20 of product, already formed inside the recesses of thefirst sheets21, since thesecond sheets22 go in abutment against the concave surface of the concavecircular impressions51 of theunits35.

Moreover, the heating means working near the joining portion of the respectivefirst sheets21 andsecond sheets22, heat weld them.

When the packaging cycle of infusion products is finished, thefourth satellite device6 intervenes, carrying the trimming groups60.

During thebracket61 feeding, by thetoggles mechanism63, the trimminggroups60 are set in contact with the peripheral portion of thecarrousel10, in a position corresponding to the row ofcavities11, already having the batchedquantities20 interposed between thefirst sheets21 and thesecond sheets22, joined thermally.

The feeding of thebracket61 brings eachedge76 of thepaper pressing cups67 to contact thefirst sheets21 and thesecond sheets22, pushing them tightly inside thepaper pressing seat77.

In the final section of thebracket61 feeding, thepush rods devices80 push thetrimming cup blades66 into contact with thefirst sheets21 and thesecond sheets22, protruding from thecavities11, and to cut them.

The trimming operation finishes when the blade of the trimmingcup blades66 reaches the respectivecounter-blade seat185.

The so finished packs2 are closed between therespective cavities11 and shapedheads65, since they are kept by suction means, which act in correspondence to the cavities11 (seeFIG. 25B).

The transferring of the packs2 to thesubsequent discharge station610 is allowed by the activation of the suction means acting at theinner chambers70, connected to the shaped heads65, as described.

In suitable step relation, the coupling means of thework assembly60 are disengaged and theunits64 withdrawn (seeFIG. 26).

The locking means242 lock again thecarriage27, and therespective work assembly60 is rotated until it reaches thedischarge station610, situated beside thefourth satellite device6.

In thestation610, thebracket61, carrying theunits64, is moved again by thetoggles mechanism63, so as to transfer the packs2, carried by the shaped heads65, to the withdrawing means92 (seeFIG. 27).

In particular, the suction means connected to theinner chambers70 of the shaped heads65 are deactivated, when the packs2 face the respective withdrawingmeans92, so as to receive and hold them tightly.

During the next rotation, the withdrawing device, prepares packs2 obtained in other working areas.

The described machine reaches the object of making packs of infusion products, such as coffee and the like, with the best use of filter paper.

In particular, an advantage of this machine lies in fact that it allows to reduce substantially the removed filter paper, i.e. production wastes, which obviously diminishes the packs cost.

This is obtained due to making of the packs2 by using

single sheets

21,22 of filter paper, on therotating carrousel10.

Actually, the dimensions of the

single sheets

21,22 of filter paper are adapted to the dimensions of the packs to be made and can be suitably varied, if the packs size is changed.

The use of

single sheets

21,22 of filter paper for making packs2 does not limit the type of packaging material, in particular as far as thickness, weft, and permeability thereof are concerned.

The user can choose any kind of paper, even thin or soft, because there are no particular requirements concerning the mechanical resistance, connected to the pulling of the filter paper band.

It is also possible to use packaging materials different than filter paper, e.g. sheets of permeable material, natural and/or synthetic, or a kind of fabric obtained with natural and/or synthetic fibers.

The use of

single sheets

21,22 of filter paper avoids the transmission of tensions and possible defects from one row to another of the filter paper band, which is a disadvantage of the prior art machines.

A further advantage of the proposed machine lies in the fact that it allows to make packs of infusion products, working in parallel on any number of rows, arranged side by side, so as to obtain high productivity.

Moreover, due to the continuous operation of thecarrousel10, the productivity is further increased, since the processed products are not stopped during the packaging cycle.

In particular, also the most delicate steps, such as the packs filling or closing, are performed by connecting the respective satellite devices to thecarrousel10, while it rotates continuously.

This result is obtained first of all by the fact that eachwork station6 is connected to the respective work assembly G along the angular path between the initial angular position a1 and the final angular position α2, and not in only one tangent point, as it occurs in the prior art tangential machines.

Moreover, the proposed machine allows to perform all the processing steps on thesame carrousel10, so as to optimize the production spaces, not only with respect to the continuous, linear machines, but also with respect to the less bulky, tangential machines.

It is to be pointed out that the performing of subsequent operations by the machine is very efficient, because the coupling between the work stations and the respective work assemblies, preferably magnetic, but also mechanical or of other type, is stable and does not transmit shocks to the mechanical means involved in the given working step.

Finally, the above results are obtained by a machine of simple and compact structure, versatile use and reliable operation.

Another advantage derives form the fact that the heat-formed recesses of thefirst sheets21 satisfy the prefixed geometrical characteristics, which allows to optimize the filling of the recesses with the batched quantities ofproduct20.

It is understood that the proposed invention has been described, with reference to the enclosed figures, as a mere, not limiting example. Therefore, it is obvious that any changes or variants applied thereto remain within the protective scope defined by the following claims.

Claims

1. A machine for making packs of infusion products, the packs including a first sheet (21) of packaging material, having at least one recess, in which a batched quantity of product (20) is placed, and a second sheet (22) of packaging material, applied on said first sheet (21) of packaging material and joined thereto peripherally, characterized in that it includes at least one work assembly (30) for feeding said first sheets (21) of packaging material; a carrousel (10), operated to rotate on a horizontal axis, in suitable step relation with the feeding of said first sheets (21) and having, made on its periphery, an ordered series of cavities (11)for receiving said first sheets (21) and forming thereon a respective recess with a shape suitable for containing said batched quantity of product (20); a filling group (40) for introducing said batched quantity of product (20) into said recess formed on said first sheets (21) associated to said cavities (11) of said carrousel (10); a group (50) for feeding single second sheets (22) of packaging material to said carrousel (10) in positions corresponding to said first sheets (21) filled with said batched quantity of product (20), and for joining mutually said sheets (21,22) in an area all around said filled recess; a discharge work assembly (610) for moving said packs (2) away from said cavities (11) of said carrousel (10).

2. A machine, as claimed inclaim 1, characterized in that said carrousel (10) is operated to rotate continuously.

3. A machine, as claimed inclaim 1, characterized in that said continuously rotating carrousel (10) has at least one ordered series of cavities (11), active between an initial angular position (α1) and a final angular position (α2), to pack respective products fed to the ordered series of cavities (11); at least one satellite device (3,4,5,6), which is driven to rotate on an axis parallel to the one of said carrousel (10) and which has at least one work assembly (30,40,50,60); means (14) for coupling said work assembly (30,40,50,60) of the satellite device (3,4,5,6) with said ordered series of cavities (11) of the carrousel (10), in said initial angular position (α1) of the series of cavities (11) and for uncoupling said work assembly (30,40,50,60) from said ordered series of cavities (11) in said final angular position (α2).

4. A machine, as claimed inclaim 3, characterized in that said satellite device (3,4,5,6) is mounted idle on a fixed axis (130) and is driven to rotate by said carrousel (10) by the subsequent engaging of a plurality of work assemblies (30,40,50,60) with said series of cavities (11) of the carrousel (10).

5. A machine, as claimed inclaim 3, characterized in that it includes supporting means (26,27) of said work assembly (30,40,50,60), pivoted eccentrically on said satellite device (3,4,5,6), on a fulcrum (F), which covers a circumference (C) intersecting the circumference arc (B), covered by said series of cavities (11) of the carrousel (10), at said initial angular position (a1) and said final angular position (α2).

6. A machine, as claimed inclaim 5, characterized in that said supporting means (26,27) of said work assembly (30,40,50,60) include a guiding element (26), pivoted on said satellite device (3,4,5,6) on said fulcrum (F) and a carriage (27), sliding along said guiding element (26) and supporting said work assembly (30,40,50,60).

7. A machine, as claimed inclaim 6, characterized in that it includes locking means (242), which prevents translation of said carriage (27) with respect to said guiding element (26), when said work assembly (30,40,50,60) is not connected to said series of cavities (11).

8. A machine, as claimed inclaim 7, characterized in that said locking means (242) include at least one push rod member, carried by said satellite device (3,4,5,6), with possibility to slide axially, and operated to move by cam means (248,249) between a rear, disengaging position, and a fore position, in which it engages with a hollow (251) made on said carriage (27).

9. A machine, as claimed inclaim 6, characterized in that said supporting means (26,27) of said work assembly (30,40,50,60) are operated to rotate by engaging means (25,31), connected to said satellite device (3,4,5,6) and coupled to a central, motionless wheel (32), arranged coaxial to said satellite device (3,4,5,6).

10. A machine, as claimed inclaim 9, characterized in that said central, motionless wheel (32) has a toothless down-stepped section (33), which disengages said work assembly (30,40,50,60) during said active step.

11. A machine, as claimed inclaim 3, characterized in that said means (14) for coupling said work assembly (30,40,50,60) to said series of cavities (11) cooperate with centering means (290), carried integral with the work assembly (30,40,50,60).

12. A machine, as claimed inclaim 11, characterized in that said centering means (290) include at least one conical pin, which engages with a corresponding coupling seat (140), made on said means (14) for coupling said work assembly (30,40,50,60) to said series of cavities (11).

13. A machine, as claimed inclaim 3, characterized in that said carrousel (10) carries mechanical coupling means (141), which block said work assembly (30,40,50,60) in its active step, and which include a coupling member (143), carried oscillating by a lever (142), following cam means (146), so as to move between a position of coupling said work assembly (30,40,50,60), determined by spring means (147) and an uncoupling position (142a).

14. A machine, as claimed inclaim 3, characterized in that said means (14) for coupling said work assembly (30,40,50,60) to said series of cavities (11) are magnetic.

15. A machine, as claimed inclaim 3, characterized in that said satellite device (3,4,5,6) carries, regularly spaced apart, a plurality of work assemblies (30,40,50,60), which cooperate in succession with corresponding series of cavities (11), distributed along the carrousel (10) periphery.

16. A machine, as claimed inclaim 1, characterized in that it includes at least one trimming group (60), consisting of respective trimming means (66), which trim said pack (2) along a peripheral area.

17. A machine, as claimed inclaim 1, characterized in that said work assembly (30) for feeding said first sheets (21) of packaging material includes respective heating means, which thermo-form recesses on said first sheets (21).

18. A machine, as claimed inclaim 1, characterized in that said work assembly (50) for feeding said second sheets (22) includes respective heating means (52), situated near a peripheral portion of said first sheets (21) joined to said second sheets (22), to heat-weld them.

19. A machine, as claimed inclaim 1, characterized in that at least one said work assemblies (30,50) for feeding said first and second sheets (21,22) forms a system for transferring them from a withdrawing station (310) to a series of cavities (11), which includes a gripping group (355), moving between a first withdrawing station (310) of said items (21,22) and said series of cavities (11), and having at least one needle (366) for punching, at least partially, the sheet (21,22) in said first withdrawing station (310) and for transferring said sheets to the series of cavities (11), means (556,360,15) for disengaging said needle (366) from said sheet (21,22), cooperating functionally with the gripping group (355) in a position corresponding to said series of cavities (11).

20. A machine, as claimed inclaim 19, characterized in that said gripping group (355) including substantially a head (365) with said needle (366), is carried slidingly axially by a unit (35) operated by an actuator (34), since said group (355) is subjected to elastic means (362) on one side, and in abutment against a first end stop (363) on the other side, so as to define a first outer dead center of said head (365) and in that said disengaging means include at least one lever (556), integral with said gripping group (355), a flat surface (360), connected to said gripping unit (35), both facing said series of cavities (11), when said gripping group (355) is connected thereto, an abutment (15), situated near said series of cavities (11) and contacting said lever (556), with consequent translation of said gripping group (355) against said elastic means (362), to define the uncoupling of said needle (366) from said sheet (21,22) kept by the flat surface (360).

21. A machine, as claimed inclaim 20, characterized in that said actuator (34) includes a toggle mechanism (341), articulated to a stem (36), which carries said withdrawing unit (35).

22. A machine, as claimed inclaim 1, characterized in that said filling group includes a body (40a), at least one plunger (41), forming a concave head (41a) and sliding axially inside said body (40a), shutter means (45) for keeping a batched quantity of product (20) inside said concave head (40a) of said plunger (40).

23. A machine, as claimed inclaim 22, characterized in that said plunger (41) is carried by a stem (42), operated axially by actuator means (43) including a toggle mechanism.

24. A machine, as claimed inclaim 22, characterized in that said stem (42) has a grooved section to be operated to rotate by respective gears (49,490).

25. A machine, as claimed inclaim 24, characterized in that said gears (49,490) of said filling group (40) are operated to rotate by a conical pinion (491), which engages with a fixed toothed crown (492), coaxial to the carrousel (10), when said filling group is connected to said series of cavities (11) to feed respective batched quantities of product (20).

26. A machine, as claimed inclaim 22, characterized in that said shutter means (45) form a four-lobe plate (450) carried with possibility to rotate by a pin (451) in a position median and coaxial with a respective pair of plungers (41), said plate (450) having a pair of opposite openings (452), allowing a passage of respective batched quantities of product (20).

27. A machine, as claimed inclaim 26, characterized in that said pin (451) is keyed onto a respective pinion (48) meshed with a respective intermediate wheel (47), operated by a rack (46), which moves longitudinally and alternately.

28. A machine, as claimed inclaim 1, characterized in that said group (30) for feeding first sheets (21) includes a convex impression (353), carried with possibility to slide axially by the respective withdrawing unit (35) to form said first sheets (21).

29. A machine, as claimed inclaim 1, characterized in that said group (50) for feeding said second sheets (22) includes a concave impression (51), carried with possibility to slide axially by the respective withdrawing unit (35), to join said second sheets (22) with said lift truck (1) containing said batched quantities of product (20).

30. A machine, as claimed inclaim 1, characterized in that said discharging group (610) includes a shaped head (65), forming a preferably concave impression (68), which receives said packs (2), and which faces aspiration ducts (69), connected to aspiration means to hold rigidly said packs (2).

31. A machine, as claimed inclaim 16, characterized in that said trimming group (60) includes at least one trimming cup blade (66), sliding axially and carrying, at its lower end, a blade of continuous profile, which goes in abutment against respective counter blade seat (185), outer to the joining area of said first and second sheets (21,22) to trim a respective peripheral portion thereof.

32. A machine, as claimed inclaim 28, characterized in that said trimming group (60) includes at least a paper pressing cup (67), forming substantially an overturned cup, keyed with possibility to slide axially on said trimming cup blade (66) and carrying, on its lower end, and edge (76) of wedge shape, which intercepts a respective peripheral area of said first sheets (21) joined to the second sheets (22), and pushes, in abutment against said carrousel (10), a respective

33. A machine, as claimed inclaim 1, characterized in that said packaging material is filter paper.

34. A machine, as claimed inclaim 2, characterized in that said continuously rotating carrousel (10) has at least one ordered series of cavities (11), active between an initial angular position (α1) and a final angular position (α2), to pack respective products fed to the ordered series of cavities (11); at least one satellite device (3,4,5,6), which is driven to rotate on an axis parallel to the one of said carrousel (10) and which has at least one work assembly (30,40,50,60); means (14) for coupling said work assembly (30,40,50,60) of the satellite device (3,4,5,6) with said ordered series of cavities (11) of the carrousel (10), in said initial angular position (α1) of the series of cavities (11) and for uncoupling said work assembly (30,40,50,60) from said ordered series of cavities (11) in said final angular position (α2).

35. A machine, as claimed inclaim 17, characterized in that said packaging material is filter paper.