Patent ID: 7237668
Filing Date: 2007-07-03
Classification: B65B,B65G,Y10S

Abstract:
1. A device for sorting items, provided downstream of a first number of feeding channels of a series of items formed and singled out at previous operative stations, said feeding channels being associated in pairs, the latter being spaced from one another by equal steps, and provided, at the relevant output sections, with dispensing members for a controlled release of said items, wherein said device includes: a number of mobile tracks equal to said first number of feeding channels, said mobile tracks being arranged downstream of said feeding channels and operatively associated in pairs, so as to define operating gaps between successive pairs, the gaps facing the above steps, said first mobile tracks being movable in reciprocal synchronism, transversally to said feeding channels; a second number of second mobile tracks, each arranged downstream of said feeding channels and disposed between successive pairs of said first tracks at the operating gaps, said second tracks being movable both in synchronism with said first tracks, transversally to said feeding channels, and in phase relation with operation of said first tracks, transversally to said feeding channels within said operating gaps; said first tracks and said second tracks being designed, due to corresponding movements respectively in synchronism, the first tracks, and in a sequence, in synchronism with the first tracks and in phase relation with the first tracks, the second tracks, to face said feeding channels according to predetermined sequences, for receiving items in a number equal to the sum of said first number of mobile tracks and of said second number of second mobile tracks, said items being released by said feeding channels for defining, in cooperation with driving bars moving longitudinally above the same first and second tracks, for contacting and pulling such items, respective and distinct transversal rows of items, each transversal row including a number of items equal to the sum of said first number and second number of mobile tracks, and for transferring the same rows of items towards subsequent packaging operating stations.