GB1203319A - Collating machine for packaging, for example, jars - Google Patents

Abstract

1,203,319. Packaging SCHWEPPES (FOODS) Ltd. 21 Oct., 1968, No. 49877/68. Heading B8C. A method of collating jars or other articles to be arranged side-by-side in a group or groups on a tray comprises advancing the articles in at least two rows each containing two or more articles placed side-by-side to a delivery position, the articles in each row being segregated into groups, continuously feeding trays of a size to accommodate the number of articles in each group or groups to the delivery position, the arrangement being such that movement of the articles on arrival at the delivery position is in a plane above that of the trays so that a tray is in position to receive the articles on arrival at the delivery position, the movement and location of the articles being so controlled that the groups in each row are discharged at points which are spaced apart in relation to the movement axis of the trays whereby the groups are separately positioned on the trays. As shown, the machine comprises an endless-belt conveyer 2 which advances jars from a branch feed to collating means consisting of sets 5, 6 of rotatable star wheels which segregate the jars into groups of the required number and transfer the jars to a second conveyer 3 advancing trays to the assembly or discharge position and operating at a level below a platform 7. A splitter star wheel divides the jars into two rows respectively and from which groups of three jars are picked up by star wheels 5<SP>1</SP>, 6<SP>1</SP> and transferred to star wheels 5<SP>11</SP>, 6<SP>11</SP>, the two groups being then deposited in a tray 10.