Abstract

The present invention relates to a device (1) and a method for stacking packages (2, 2', ...) of different sizes on a pallet (3), comprising means (10) for supplying an empty pallet, means (5, 6) for loading said empty pallet at a loading station (13) depending on the sizes of the packages, and means (31) for removing the pallet after loading. It comprises a waiting station (11) for the empty pallet that is thus supplied, said waiting station (11) being situated at a first level (9) known as the upper level, horizontal means for pushing the empty pallet from the waiting station (11) to the loading station (13), and means (32) for moving the pallet (3) vertically, comprising an elevator (33) designed to grasp the pallet from below at the loading station (13) and move it vertically downwards during loading between the first level (9) and a final level (29), known as the lower level, for removing the loaded pallet (30).

IPC Classes  ?

• B65B 35/50 - Stacking one article, or group of articles, upon another before packaging
• B65B 43/00 - Forming, feeding, opening, or setting-up containers or receptacles in association with packaging
• B65B 43/58 - Means for supporting containers or receptacles during the filling operation movable stepwise to position container or receptacle for the reception of successive increments of contents vertically movable
• B65G 57/03 - Stacking of articles by adding to the top of the stack from above
• B65G 57/24 - Stacking of articles of particular shape three-dimensional, e.g. cubiform, cylindrical in layers, each of predetermined arrangement the layers being transferred as a whole, e.g. on pallets
• B65G 61/00 - Use of pick-up or transfer devices or of manipulators for stacking or de-stacking articles not otherwise provided for