Patent ID: 8590277
Filing Date: 2013-11-26
Classification: B67B

Abstract:
1. A rotary conveyor for production machines for handling containers in which a single container is caused to rotate about its own longitudinal axis (Y) during handling step, comprising: a supporting shaft centered on a main axis (X), a carrier element coupled to and rotatable as one with the supporting shaft about the main axis (X), a plurality of gripper mechanisms associated operationally with the carrier element and distributed circumferentially about the supporting shaft, each one switchable at least between a first configuration establishing a recess to accommodate a respective container, and a second configuration in which the container is retained in the recess through the application of a predetermined force exerted by the gripper mechanism; each gripper mechanism being switchable also from the second configuration to a third configuration in which a respective container is restrained by a retaining force greater than the force exerted in the second configuration; and the third configuration being assumed by the single gripper mechanism to counteract a possible rotation of the container about its longitudinal axis (Y) during the course of the handling step; at least one of the gripper mechanisms including a driven coupling member engageable with a driving coupling member mounted pivotably to the carrier element of the conveyor, such that a rotational movement generated through the driving member will produce a corresponding rotational movement of the driven member for operating the gripper mechanism.