WO2025078896A1

WO2025078896A1 - Dispensing device of an adhesive viscous fluid for a machine and/or a plant for the realization of absorbent products, machine provided with said dispensing device and relative dispensing method

Info

Publication number: WO2025078896A1
Application number: PCT/IB2024/059020
Authority: WO
Inventors: Davide Viola; Marco Viola
Original assignee: MD Viola Macchine Srl
Current assignee: MD Viola Macchine Srl
Priority date: 2023-10-12
Filing date: 2024-09-17
Publication date: 2025-04-17
Anticipated expiration: 2026-04-12
Also published as: IT202300021207A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a dispensing device (1) of an adhesive viscous fluid (2), as for example hot glue, for a machine and/or a plant for the realization of absorbent products, such as for example diapers or sanitary napkins, destined to the incontinence, feminine hygiene and/or early childhood. The dispensing device (1) comprises: a body (3); a plurality of dispensing nozzles (7) of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) lying on a same lying plane of the body (3) and distributed along a dispensing edge (3a) of the latter according to spaced positions; a plurality of pairs (8) of dispensing channels of a gas (8a) lying on the same lying plane of the dispensing nozzles (7) and distributed along the dispensing edge (3a) of the body (3); each pair (8) of dispensing channels (8a) is associated to a corresponding dispensing nozzle (7) so that each dispensing nozzle (7) results interposed between the dispensing channels (8a) of the corresponding pair (8); a supplying duct (9) of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) which develops through at least one portion of the body (3), in fluid communication with the dispensing nozzles (7) and connectable to a supplying source of the latter; a gas delivery duct (10) which develops through at least one portion of the body (3), in fluid communication with the dispensing channels (8a) and connectable to a supplying source of the gas; wherein the dispensing channels (8a) of each pair (8) converge toward the respective dispensing nozzle (7) having dispensing spouts (8b) arranged at the dispensing edge (3a) of the body (3). Each dispensing nozzle (7) is provided with a dispensing spout (7a) backward with respect to the dispensing spouts (8b) respective dispensing channels (8a). The delivery of the gas through the dispensing spouts (8b) of the respective dispensing channels (8a) determining, at least partially, a suction effect of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) which derives from the corresponding dispensing nozzle (7) towards the outer of the dispensing device (1).

Description

DISPENSING DEVICE OF AN ADHESIVE VISCOUS FLUID FOR A MACHINE AND/OR A PLANT FOR THE REALIZATION OF ABSORBENT PRODUCTS, MACHINE PROVIDED WITH SAID DISPENSING DEVICE AND RELATIVE DISPENSING METHOD

DESCRIPTION

Technical field

The present invention concerns a dispensing device of an adhesive viscous fluid, optionally glue, in particular hot glue, for a machine and/or a plant for the realization of absorbent products, such as for example diapers or sanitary napkins, destined to the incontinence, feminine hygiene and/or early childhood.

The present invention concerns also a machine for realizing absorbent products, such as for example diapers or sanitary napkins, destined to the incontinence, feminine hygiene and/or early childhood provided with the above-mentioned dispensing device.

It is also the object of the present invention a dispensing method of an adhesive viscous fluid, optionally glue, in particular hot glue, on a continuous tape advancing along an advancing path defined by a corresponding machine for the realization of absorbent products, such as for example diapers or sanitary napkins, destined to the incontinence, feminine hygiene and/or early childhood,

The present invention is placed within the production lines of absorbent products, such as diapers or sanitary napkins, the packaging thereof is carried out from various semi-finished products, among which tapes of reelwound material, such as, for example, polyethylene, fabric, non-woven fabric (TNT), cellulose wadding (tissue).

State of the art

Absorbent products, such as for example diapers or sanitary napkins destined to the incontinence, feminine hygiene and/or early childhood, are generally composed of an absorbing insert internally placed and a dedicated outer structure of different shapes. In case of panty-shaped absorbent products, the outer structure is usually elasticized so as to secure the absorbent product in the correct position for use.

The absorbing insert has the function of absorbing liquids and containing the solid parts.

The production of such absorbent products occurs automatically and continuously in a single production line. In such a line, tapes of materials are unwound from the reels to be subsequently supplied to processing stations that provide for combining them with each other and possibly with other materials, to form a semifinished product consisting of a composite tape.

The absorbing insert is usually formed by a lower impermeable layer, an upper permeable layer and by ground cellulose pulp mixed with absorbent powder and placed between the lower and upper impermeable layers.

The outer structure is usually formed by two layers of nonwoven fabric, one upper and one lower, and possibly, if necessary, by elastic threads glued welded in between the two layers.

The production of said absorbent products requires the use of suitable viscous adhesive fluids, such as for example glues and/or hot glues, which have the purpose of gluing together one or more parts of the elements that constitute the diapers or sanitary napkins.

An example of gluing practiced by using hot glues is performed on the nonwoven continuous tape prior to the application in the related absorbing inserts. In fact, hot glue must ensure the gluing of the absorbing inserts to the nonwoven continuous tape before the subsequent steps of cutting/cutting, folding, forming and sealing of each product in relation.

Hot glue can also be used to bond together other components of the absorbing products in relation. In fact, it is also known to use hot glue directly on the elastic filaments between the two layers of nonwoven fabric so that it binds those layers to the elastic filaments to create a stable structure.

The application of hot glue is usually done by means of corresponding dispensing devices that deposit it appropriately and continuously on the parts and/or components being fed during the process of realization of absorbent products.

An example of dispensing device used in a process of realization absorbent products is shown and described in the document U S2023/0113429. The dispensing device provides for a body provided with two end blocks and a plurality of intermediate plates which lie between the two end blocks.

A central plate defines a plurality of slots merged into groups of three. Each group of three slots comprises a central straight channel which defines a respective dispensing nozzle for a gluing adhesive substance and two lateral channels, converging toward the corresponding central channel, which define respective dispensing ducts of a gas. The dispensing nozzle of the glue of each group protrudes outwards with respect to the respective dispensing ducts of a gas.

Between the central plate and each of the end blocks is also provided an intermediate plate which has the task of isolating the glue dispensing nozzle and the respective dispensing ducts of gas of each group by placing them, through corresponding dedicated through openings, in fluid communication with respective supplying ducts and deliveries of the gluing adhesive substance and gas.

The document JPH08243461A shows a nozzle application device for a spray application apparatus which comprises a nozzle assembly provided with a plurality of holes arranged along a direction orthogonal to a transport direction of an application line. The device further comprises a pressurized air delivery slot that generates a curtain-shaped flow of pressurized air which extends along the direction orthogonal to the transport direction of an application line.

Although the known dispensing devices allow satisfactory deposition of gluing adhesive substances on parts and/or components and/or materials during the supply and handling in the processes of realization of absorbent products, such as for example diapers or feminine pads, the Applicant found that such devices are not free from some drawbacks and are improvable in several aspects, mainly related to, efficiency during dispensing, precision and cleanliness during dispensing, structural complexity of the same, maintenance and cleaning time required, and their relation costs.

In particular, the Applicant has found that known dispensing devices are composed by a large number of components being frequently subject to maintenance and cleaning interventions aimed at ensuring their proper functioning.

Furthermore, a large number of components has a significant impact on the cost of realizing and marketing dispensing devices, which inevitably increases as a function of the number thereof expected on a production line of absorbent products.

It should also be noted that the particularly conformation of the glue dispensing nozzles that protrude with respect to the gas dispensing ports affect the accuracy and cleaning of dispensing, creating unwanted filaments during an intermittent dispensing.

Purpose of the invention

The main purpose of the present invention is to solve one or more of the problems encountered in the known technique.

In this field, the Applicant aimed then at proposing a dispensing device of an adhesive viscous fluid for a machine and/or a plant for the realization of absorbent products, a machine provided with such a dispensing device and a dispensing method of the adhesive viscous fluid that allow a more efficient, precise and clean dispensing of the adhesive viscous fluid.

It is also a purpose of the present invention to significantly simplify the structure of the dispensing device.

It is also a purpose of the present invention to propose facilitating the ordinary and extraordinary maintenance interventions of the dispensing device.

It is also a purpose of the present invention to reduce the times and costs related to ordinary and extraordinary maintenance interventions of the dispensing device.

It is also a purpose of the present invention to reduce the costs related to the realization and marketing of the dispensing device.

These purposes and others, which will appear more from the following detailed description, are substantially achieved by a dispensing device of an adhesive viscous fluid for a machine and/or a plant for the realization of absorbent products, a machine provided with such a dispensing device and a dispensing method of the viscous fluid, as described and claimed in the following aspects, description and claims. Summary of the invention

The aspects of the invention are herein described.

In a 1^st independent aspect of the present invention, it is provided a dispensing device (1) of an adhesive viscous fluid (2), optionally glue, in particular hot glue, for a machine and/or a plant for the realization of absorbent products, such as for example diapers or sanitary napkins, destined to the incontinence, feminine hygiene and/or early childhood, the dispensing device (1) comprising:

- a body (3);

- a plurality of dispensing nozzles (7) of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) lying on a same lying plane of the body (3), the dispensing nozzles (7) being distributed along a dispensing edge (3a) of the body (3) and being spaced from each other, optionally according to the same distance;

- a plurality of pairs (8) of dispensing channels of a gas (8a) lying on the same lying plane of the dispensing nozzles (7) and distributed along the dispensing edge (3a) of the body (3), each pair (8) of dispensing channels of (8a) being associated to a corresponding dispensing nozzle (7) so that each dispensing nozzle (7) results interposed between the dispensing channels (8a) of the corresponding pair (8), each dispensing channel (8a) having a corresponding dispensing spout (8b) arranged at the dispensing edge (3a) of the body (3), optionally the dispensing channels of the gas (8a) of each pair (8) converge toward the corresponding dispensing nozzle (7);

- at least one supplying duct (9) of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) developing through at least one portion of the body (3), in fluid communication with the dispensing nozzles (7), the supplying duct (9) being connectable to a supplying source of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) not being part of the dispensing device (1 );

- at least one gas delivery duct (10) developing through at least one portion of the body (3), in fluid communication with the pairs (8) of dispensing channels (8a), the delivery duct (10) being connectable to a supplying source of gas not being part of the dispensing device (1); each dispensing nozzle (7) being provided with a dispensing spout (7a) backward with respect to the dispensing spouts (8b) of the dispensing channels (8a) of the corresponding pair (8), optionally the dispensing of gas through the dispensing spouts (8b) of the dispensing channels (8a) determining, at least partially, a suction effect of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) which derives from the corresponding dispensing nozzle (7) towards the outer of the dispensing device (1).

In a further independent aspect 1^st bis, combinable with the preceding aspect and with any one of the following aspects, it is provided a machine (100) for the realization of absorbent products, such as for example diapers or sanitary napkins, destined to the incontinence, feminine hygiene and/or early childhood, the machine (100) comprising:

- at least one supplying station (101) of at least one continuous tape (102) of material suitable for realizing diapers or absorbents, the supplying station (101) being configured for advancing the continuous tape (102) along at least one advancing path (P) and according to an advancing direction (D);

- an applying station (103) operating along the advancing path (P) of the continuous tape (102) downstream of the supplying station (101), the applying station (103) being configured for applying in succession on the supplying continuous tape (102) a plurality of absorbing inserts (104) while the continuous tape (102) advances along the advancing path (P);

- at least one dispensing device (1) of an adhesive viscous fluid (2) operatively arranged between the supplying station (101) and the applying station (103) for joining each absorbing insert (104) applied in the applying station (103) to the continuous tape (102), the dispensing device (1) comprising: o a body (3); o a plurality of dispensing nozzles (7) of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) lying on a same lying plane of the body (3), the dispensing nozzles (7) of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) being distributed along a dispensing edge (3a) of the body (3) and being spaced from each other, optionally according to the same distance; o a plurality of pairs (8) of dispensing channels of a gas (8a) lying on the same lying plane of the dispensing nozzles (7) and distributed along the dispensing edge (3a) of the body (3), each pair (8) of dispensing channels (8a) being associated to a corresponding dispensing nozzle (7) so that each dispensing nozzle (7) results interposed between the dispensing channels (8a) of the corresponding pair (8), each dispensing channel (8a) having a corresponding dispensing spout (8b) arranged at the dispensing edge (3a) of the body (3), optionally the dispensing channels of the gas (8a) of each pair (8) converge toward the corresponding dispensing nozzle (7);at least one supplying duct (9) of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) developing through at least one portion of the body (3), in fluid communication with the dispensing nozzles (7) of the adhesive viscous fluid (2), the supplying duct (9) being connectable to a supplying source of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) not being part of the dispensing device (1 ); o at least one gas delivery duct (10) developing through at least one portion of the body (3), in fluid communication with the pairs (8) of dispensing channels (8a), the delivery duct (10) being connectable to a supplying source of gas not being part of the dispensing device (1 ); o each dispensing nozzle (7) being provided with a dispensing spout (7a) backward with respect to the dispensing spouts (8b) of the dispensing channels (8a) of the respective pair (8), optionally the dispensing of gas through the dispensing spouts (8b) of the dispensing channels (8a) of each pair (8) determining, at least partly, a suction effect of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) deriving from the corresponding dispensing nozzle (7) towards the outer of the dispensing device (1) and toward the continuous tape (102) advancing along the advancing path (P).

In a further independent aspect 1 ^st ter combinable with the preceding aspect and with any one of the following aspects, is provided a dispensing device (1 ) of an adhesive viscous fluid (2), optionally glue, in particular hot glue, for a machine and/or a plant for the realization of absorbent products, such as for example diapers or sanitary napkins, destined to the incontinence, feminine hygiene and/or early childhood, the dispensing device (1 ) comprising:

- a body (3) defined at least by a first semi-block (4) and a second semi-block (5) reciprocally engaged through at least one fastening element (6);

- a plurality of dispensing nozzles (7) of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) lying on a same lying plane interposed between the first semi-block (4) and the second semi-block (5) of the body (3), the dispensing nozzles (7) being distributed along a dispensing edge (3a) of the body (3) and being spaced from each other, optionally according to the same distance;

- a plurality of pairs (8) of dispensing channels of a gas (8a) lying on the same lying plane of the dispensing nozzles (7) and distributed along the dispensing edge (3a) of the body (3), each pair (8) of dispensing channels (8a) being associated to a corresponding dispensing nozzle (7) so that each dispensing nozzle (7) results interposed between the dispensing channels (8a) of the corresponding pair (8), each dispensing channel (8a) having a corresponding dispensing spout (8b) arranged at the dispensing edge (3a) of the body (3), optionally the dispensing channels of the gas (8a) of each pair (8) converge toward the corresponding dispensing nozzle (7);

- at least one supplying duct (9) of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) developing through at least one of the semi-blocks (4, 5) of the body (3), in fluid communication with the dispensing nozzles (7), the supplying duct (9) being connectable to a supplying source of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) not being part of the dispensing device (1);

- at least one delivery duct (10) developing through at least one of the semi-blocks (4, 5) of the body (3), in fluid communication with the pairs (8) of dispensing channels (8a), the delivery duct (10) being connectable to a supplying source of gas not being part of the dispensing device (1); each dispensing nozzle (7) being provided with a dispensing spout (7a) backward with respect to the dispensing spouts (8b) of the dispensing channels (8a) of the corresponding pair (8), optionally the dispensing of gas through the dispensing spouts (8b) of the dispensing channels (8a) of each pair (8) determining, at least partially, a suction effect of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) which derives from the corresponding dispensing nozzle (7) towards the outer of the dispensing device (1).

In a further independent aspect 1 ^st quater, combinable with the preceding aspect and with any one of the following aspects, it is provided a machine (100) for the realization of absorbent products, such as for example diapers or sanitary napkins, destined to the incontinence, feminine hygiene and/or early childhood, the machine (100) comprising:

- at least one dispensing device (1) of an adhesive viscous fluid (2) operatively arranged between the supplying station (101) and the applying station (103) for joining each absorbing insert (104) applied in the applying station (103) to the continuous tape (102), the dispensing device (1) comprising: o a body (3) defined mainly by a first semi-block (4) and a second semi-block (5) reciprocally engaged through at least one fastening element (6); o a plurality of dispensing nozzles (7) of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) lying on a same lying plane interposed between the first semi-block blocks (4) and the second semi-block (5) of the body (3), the dispensing nozzles (7) being distributed along a dispensing edge (3a) of the body (3) and being spaced from each other, optionally according to the same distance; o a plurality of pairs (8) of dispensing channels of a gas (8a) lying on the same lying plane of the dispensing nozzles (7) of the and distributed along the dispensing edge (3a) of the body (3), each pair (8) of dispensing channels (8a) being associated to a respective dispensing nozzle (7) so that each dispensing nozzle (7) results interposed between the dispensing channels (8a) of the corresponding pair (8), each dispensing channel (8a) having a corresponding dispensing spout (8b) arranged at the dispensing edge (3a) of the body (3), optionally the dispensing channels of the gas (8a) of each pair (8) converge toward the corresponding dispensing nozzle (7); o at least one supplying duct (9) of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) developing through at least one of the semi-blocks (4, 5) of the body (3), in fluid communication with the dispensing nozzles (7), the supplying duct (9) being connectable to a supplying source of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) not being part of the dispensing device (1); o at least one gas delivery duct (10) developing through at least one of the semi-blocks (4, 5) of the body (3), in fluid communication with the pairs (8) of dispensing channels (8a), the delivery duct (10) being connectable to a supplying source of gas not being part of the dispensing device (1 ); o each dispensing nozzle (7) being provided with a dispensing spout (7a) backward with respect to the dispensing spouts (8b) of the dispensing channels (8a) of the corresponding pair (8), optionally the dispensing of gas through the dispensing spouts (8b) of the dispensing channels (8a) of each pair (8) of channels determining, at least partly, a suction effect of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) deriving from the corresponding dispensing nozzle (7) towards the outer of the dispensing device (1 ) and toward the continuous tape (102) advancing along the advancing path (P).

In a 2^nd aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the dispensing spout (7a) of each dispensing nozzle (7) is in fluid communication with the dispensing spouts (8b) of the corresponding dispensing channels (8a).

In a 3^rd aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the dispensing spout (7a) of each dispensing nozzle (7) is in fluid communication with the dispensing spouts (8b) of the corresponding dispensing channels (8a) to define, on the dispensing edge (3a) of the body (3) of the dispensing device (1), a corresponding common dispensing cavity (3b) of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) and of the gas.

In an aspect 3^rd bis according to any one of the preceding aspects, the dispensing channels (8a) of each pair (8) converge with respect to each other approaching the dispensing spouts (7a, 8b) of the corresponding dispensing nozzle (7) and of the corresponding dispensing channels (8a).

In an aspect 3^rd ter according to any one of the preceding aspects, the dispensing channels (8a) of each pair (8) converge toward each other, approaching the respective dispensing nozzle (7) approaching the dispensing spouts (7a, 8b) respectively of the corresponding dispensing nozzle (7) and of the corresponding dispensing channels (8a).

In a 4^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the dispensing channels (8a) of each pair (8) diverge with respect to each other moving away from the dispensing spouts (7a, 8b) of the corresponding dispensing nozzle (7) and of the corresponding dispensing channels (8a).

In a 5^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the dispensing channels (8a) of each pair (8) move away from the respective dispensing nozzle (7) moving away from the dispensing spouts (7a, 8b) respectively of the corresponding dispensing nozzle (7) of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) and of the corresponding dispensing channels (8a).

In a 5^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the dispensing channels (8a) of each pair (8) diverge with respect to each other and move away from the respective dispensing nozzle (7) moving away from the dispensing spouts (7a, 8b) respectively of the corresponding dispensing nozzle (7) and of the corresponding dispensing channels (8a). In a 6^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the dispensing channels (8a) of each pair (8) develop from the respective dispensing spouts (7a, 8b) of the corresponding dispensing nozzle (7) and of the corresponding dispensing channels (8a) according to a size greater with respect to the development of the respective dispensing nozzle (7) from the same dispensing spouts (7a, 8b).

In an aspect 6^th bis aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the dispensing channels of the gas (8a) of each pair (8) are longer than the corresponding dispensing nozzle (7).

In a 7^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the lying plane of the dispensing nozzles (7) and of the corresponding pairs (8) of the dispensing channels (8a) is defined at least by a respective coupling surface (4a) of the first semi-block (4) of the body (3) of the dispensing device (1).

In a 8^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the dispensing nozzles (7) and the corresponding dispensing channels (8a) are realized directly in a respective coupling surface (4a) of a first semi-block (4) of the body (3) of the dispensing device (1 ).

In a 9^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the dispensing nozzles (7) and the corresponding dispensing channels (8a) are realized directly in a respective coupling surface (4a) of a first semi-block (4) of the body (3) of the dispensing device (1 ) by means of removal of material.

In a 10^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the dispensing nozzles (7) and the corresponding dispensing channels (8a) are realized directly in a respective coupling surface (4a) of a first semi-block (4) of the body (3) of the dispensing device (1) by means of a mechanical machining, for example by micro-milling, or by means of at least one laser machining.

In a 1 1^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the dispensing nozzles (7) and the respective dispensing channels (8a) are at least partly defined by a sealing plate (11) configured for remaining interposed between a first semi-block (4) and a second semi-block (5) of the body (3) of the dispensing device (1)-

In a 12^th aspect according to the preceding aspect when it depends on any one of the aspects from the 8^th to the 10^th, the dispensing nozzles (7) and the corresponding dispensing channels (8a) are at least partly defined by a sealing plate (11) configured for remaining in adhesion to the surface (4a) of the first semi-block (4) of the body (3) of the dispensing device (1).

In a 13^th aspect according to any one of the two preceding aspects, the sealing plate (11) is substantially plain for closing the dispensing nozzles (7) and the corresponding dispensing channels (8a).

In a 14^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the delivery duct (10) develops mainly through a first semi-block (4) of the body (3) of the dispensing device (1).

In a 15^th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the delivery duct (10) develops only through the first semiblock (4).

In a 16^th aspect according to any one of the two preceding aspects, the delivery duct (10) comprises: - a conveying portion (10a) which develops through the first semi-block (4) of the body (3) of the dispensing device (1) between an outer connection junction (10b) and the respective coupling surface (4a);

- a distribution chamber (10c) in fluid communication with the conveying portion (10a) and with the dispensing channels (8a), the distribution chamber (10c) being interposed between the conveying portion (10a) and the coupling surface (4a) of the first semi-block (4).

In a 17^th aspect according to the preceding aspect when the 14^th aspect depends on any one of the aspects from the 11^th to the 13^th, the distribution chamber (10c) flows into coupling surface (4a) of the first semi-block (4) and is in fluid communication with the dispensing channels (8a) on the opposite side with respect to the corresponding dispensing spouts (7a, 8b) respectively of the dispensing nozzles (7) and of the dispensing channels (8a), the distribution chamber (10c) being closed by the sealing plate (11) interposed between the semi-blocks (4, 5).

In a 18^th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the distribution chamber (10c) has a substantially elongated conformation for distributing the gas deriving from the conveying portion (10a) to all the dispensing channels (8a) localized at the coupling surface (4a) of the first semi-block (4).

In a 19^th according to any one of the preceding aspects, the supplying duct (9) develops mainly through a second semi-block (5) of the body (3) of the dispensing device (1).

In a 20^th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the supplying duct (9) develops only through the second semi-block (5).

In a 21^st aspect according to any one of the two preceding aspects when the 14^th aspect depends on any one of the aspects from the 11^th to the 13^th, the supplying duct (9) comprises:

- a conveying portion (9a) which develops through the second semi-block (5) between a respective outer connection junction (9b) and a corresponding coupling surface (5a) configured for standing at the sealing plate (11) on the opposite side with respect to the coupling surface (4a) of the first semiblock (4);

- a distribution chamber (9c) in fluid communication with the corresponding conveying portion (9a) and in fluid communication with the dispensing nozzles (7) through corresponding connection through openings (11 b) obtained through the sealing plate (11 ), the distribution chamber (9c) being interposed between the corresponding conveying portion (9a) and the coupling surface (5a) of the second semi-block (5).

In a 22^nd aspect according to the preceding aspect, the distribution chamber (9c) flows into coupling surface (5a) of the second semi-block (5) and is in fluid communication with the dispensing nozzles (7) on the opposite side with respect to the corresponding dispensing spouts (7a, 8b) respectively of the dispensing nozzles (7) and of the dispensing channels (8a), the distribution chamber (9c) being closed by the sealing plate (11) interposed between the semi-blocks (4, 5) and the connection through openings (11 b) of the sealing plate (11), which connect the distribution chamber (9c) and the dispensing nozzles (7), being each localized according to a position corresponding to an end (7b) of the respective dispensing nozzle (7) opposed to the corresponding dispensing spout (7a) of the latter.

In a 23^rd aspect according to the preceding aspect, the distribution chamber (9c) has a substantially elongated conformation for distributing the adhesive viscous fluid (2) deriving from the relative conveying portion (9a) to all the connection through openings (11b) of the sealing plate (11) and to all the dispensing nozzles (7).

In a 24^th aspect according to any one of the three preceding aspects, the distribution chamber (9c) of the supplying duct (9) of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) is localized at a lower level with respect to the distribution chamber (10c) of the delivery duct (10).

In a 25^th aspect according to any one of the four preceding aspects, the distribution chamber (9c) of the supplying duct (9) of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) is located according to a position closer to the dispensing edge (3a) of the body (3) with respect to the position of the distribution chamber (10c) of the delivery duct (10).

In a 26^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the dispensing channels (8a) are configured for dispensing pressurized gas, optionally at an operating pressure between 2 bar and 5 bar, optionally between 3 bar and 4 bar, in particular about 3,5 bar.

In a 27^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the dispensing channels (8a) are configured for dispensing hot gas, optionally at a temperature between 140° C and 200° C, in particular between 150° C and 190° C, more in particular between 160° C and 180° C, optionally equal to about 170° C.

In a 28^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the dispensing channels (8a) are configured for dispensing compressed air.

In a 29^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, each dispensing nozzle (7) has:

- a width between 0,1 mm and 0,6 mm, optionally between 0,2 mm and 0,4 mm, in particular between 0,25 mm and 0,35 mm;

- a depth between 0,1 mm and 0,6 mm, optionally between 0,2 mm and 0,4 mm, in particular between 0,25 mm and 0,35 mm.

In a 30^th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, each dispensing channel (8a) has:

In an aspect 30^th bis, the width and the depth of each dispensing channel (8a) is substantially identical to the width and to the depth of each dispensing nozzle (7) In a further 31^st depending aspect, combinable with any one of the preceding aspects, it is provided a dispensing method of an adhesive viscous fluid (2), optionally glue, in particular hot glue, on a continuous tape (102) advancing along an advancing path (P) defined by a corresponding machine and/or a plant for the realization of absorbent products, such as for example diapers or sanitary napkins, destined to the incontinence, feminine hygiene and/or early childhood, comprising the following steps:

- dispensing a plurality of chords of an adhesive viscous fluid (2) on a unique lying plane and according to directions substantially parallel and transversal to the continuous tape (102) advancing along the advancing path (P);

- dispensing, for each chord of adhesive viscous fluid (2), a pair of flows of a gas, along the same lying plane of the dispensing chords of adhesive viscous fluid (2), each chord of adhesive fluid (2) dispensed being interposed between a corresponding pair of gas flows, optionally the dispensing of each pair of gas flows being actuated so that such that the gas flows converge toward each other and both toward the corresponding chord of the adhesive viscous fluid (2); wherein the dispensing of each pair of gas flows, is carried out according to an advanced position with respect to the dispensing point of the corresponding chord of the adhesive viscous fluid (2), so that the pair of gas flows determines, at least partially, a suction effect and/or dragging of the corresponding chord of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) toward the continuous tape (102) advancing along the advancing path (P).

In a 32^nd aspect according to the preceding aspect, the dispensing of the gas flows is carried out dispensing a pressurized gas, optionally at an operating pressure between 2 bar and 5 bar, optionally between 3 bar and 4 bar, in particular about 3,5 bar.

In a 33^rd aspect according to any one of the two preceding aspects, the dispensing of the gas flows is carried out dispensing a hot gas, optionally at a temperature between 140° C and 200° C, in particular between 150° C and 190° C, more in particular between 160° C and 180° C, optionally equal to about 170° C.

In a 34^th aspect according to any one of the three preceding aspects, the supplying gas is compressed air.

In a 35^th aspect according to any one of the four preceding aspects, the dispensing point of the gas flows of each pair of flows is close to the dispensing point of the respective chord of adhesive viscous fluid (2), optionally according to a distance between 0,05 mm and 0,25 mm, optionally about 0,1 mm, so that the chord of adhesive viscous fluid (2) meets the gas flows at a maximum pressure value of the gas.

In a 36^th aspect according to any one of the five preceding aspects, the dispensing of the gas flows is carried out continuously, at least during the advancing of the continuous tape (102) along the advancing path (P) defined by the machine (100) and/or by the plant of realization of the absorbent products.

In a 37^th aspect according to any one of the six preceding aspects, the dispensing of the chords of adhesive viscous fluid (2) is carried out continuously, at least during the advancing of the continuous tape (102) along the advancing path (P) defined by the machine (100) and/or by the plant of realization of the absorbent products.

In a 38^th aspect according to any one of the aspects from the 31 ^st to the 35^th, the dispensing of the gas flows is carried out according to an intermittent mode, at least during the advancing of the continuous tape (102) along the advancing path (P) defined by the machine (100) and/or by the plant of realization of the absorbent products.

In a 39^th aspect according to any one of the aspects from the 31^st to the 35^th or according to the aspect 38^th, the dispensing of the chords of adhesive viscous fluid (2) is carried out according to an intermittent mode, at least during the advancing of the continuous tape (102) along the advancing path (P) defined by the machine (100) and/or by the plant of realization of the absorbent products.

In a 40^th aspect according to any one of the four preceding aspects, the dispensing of the chords of adhesive viscous fluid (2) is carried out during the dispensing of the gas flows, the dispensing of the gas flows being already operating when it is carried out the dispensing of the chords of viscous fluid (2) or being started before dispensing the chords of adhesive viscous fluid (2).

In a 41^st aspect according to any one of the five preceding aspects, the dispensing of the gas flows is operating when it is carried out an interruption of the dispensing of the chords of viscous fluid (2), the dispensing of the gas flows being maintained or interrupted after the interruption of the dispensing of the chords of viscous fluid (2).

In a 43^rd aspect, independent with respect to the preceding aspects, it is provided a machine (100) for the realization of absorbent products, such as for example diapers or sanitary napkins, destined to the incontinence, feminine hygiene and/or early childhood, which comprises at least one dispensing device (1) of an adhesive viscous fluid (2) provided with:

- a body (3);

- a plurality of dispensing nozzles (7) of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) lying on a same lying plane of the body (3), the dispensing nozzles (7) of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) being distributed along a dispensing edge (3a) of the body (3) and being spaced from each other, optionally according to the same distance;

- a plurality of pairs (8) of dispensing channels of a gas (8a) lying on the same lying plane of the dispensing nozzles (7) and distributed along the dispensing edge (3a) of the body (3), each pair (8) of dispensing channels (8a) being associated to a respective dispensing nozzle (7) so that each dispensing nozzle (7) results interposed between the dispensing channels (8a) of the corresponding pair (8), each dispensing channel (8a) having a corresponding dispensing spout (8b) arranged at the dispensing edge (3a) of the body (3), optionally the dispensing channels of the gas (8a) of each pair (8) converge toward the corresponding dispensing nozzle (7);at least one supplying duct (9) of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) developing through at least one portion of the body (3), in fluid communication with the dispensing nozzles (7) of the adhesive viscous fluid (2), the supplying duct (9) being connectable to a supplying source of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) not being part of the dispensing device (1 );

- at least one gas delivery duct (10) developing through at least one portion of the body (3), in fluid communication with the pairs (8) of dispensing channels (8a), the delivery duct (10) being connectable to a supplying source of gas not being part of the dispensing device (1);

- each dispensing nozzle (7) being provided with a dispensing spout (7a) backward with respect to the dispensing spouts (8b) of the dispensing channels (8a) of the respective pair (8), optionally the dispensing of gas through the dispensing spouts (8b) of the dispensing channels (8a) of each pair (8) determining, at least partly, a suction effect of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) deriving from the corresponding dispensing nozzle (7) towards the outer of the dispensing device (1).

In a 44^th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the machine (100) comprises

- at least one applying station (103) operating along the advancing path (P) of the continuous tape (102) downstream of the supplying station (101), the applying station (103) being configured for applying in succession on the supplying continuous tape (102) a plurality of absorbing inserts (104) while the continuous tape (102) advances along the advancing path (P).

In a 45^th aspect according to the preceding aspect, at least one at least one dispensing device (1) is operatively arranged between the supplying station (101) and the applying station (103) for joining each absorbing insert (104) applied in the applying station (103) to the dispensing continuous tape (102) along the supplying path (P) of the machine (100).

Other features and advantages will appear more from the detailed description of a preferred, but not exclusive, embodiment, of a dispensing device of an adhesive viscous fluid for a machine and/or a plant for the realization of absorbent products, such as for example diapers or sanitary napkins, destined to the incontinence, feminine hygiene and/or early childhood, a machine for the realization of absorbent products provided with this dispensing device and a dispensing method of an adhesive viscous fluid 2 on a continuous tape 102 advancing along a advancing path P defined by a corresponding machine and/or a plant for the realization of absorbent products Brief description and figures

It is now indicated, by way of example and non-limiting thereto, the detailed description of one or more preferred embodiments of the invention, wherein:

- figure 1 is a schematic view of a machine for the realization of absorbent products, such as for example diapers or sanitary napkins, destined to the incontinence, feminine hygiene and/or early childhood, provided of at least one dispensing device of an adhesive viscous fluid, according to the present invention;

- figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the dispensing device of the adhesive viscous fluid, according to the present invention, wherein the components of the dispensing device are oriented in such a way as to allow the display of determined structural features of the dispensing device;

- figure 3 is a lateral elevation view of the dispensing device referred to in the preceding figure;

- figure 4 is a view from above of the dispensing device referred to in figures 2 and 3;

- figure 5 is a section of the dispensing device referred to in figures from 2 to 4;

- figure 6 is a lateral elevation view of a component of the dispensing device referred to in figures from 2 to 5;

- figure 7 is a perspective sectional view of the component of the dispensing device shown in figure 5,;

- figure 8 is an enlargement of a particular of the component shown in figure 6, visible in figures 2 and 7.

Detailed description

With reference to figure 1 it is schematically shown a machine 100 or a portion of a machine 100 or of a similar plant for the realization of absorbent products, such as for example diapers or sanitary napkins, destined to the incontinence, feminine hygiene and/or early childhood.

Generally, all steps/operations which are actuated by the machine 100 and/or the corresponding plant are carried out continuously and seamlessly on a corresponding production line.

The realization of the absorbent products is carried out by means of the above-mentioned machine 100 starting from various semi-finished products, among which material tapes wound on reels (not shown in figures), such as for example polyethylene, non-woven fabric, cellulose wadding (tissue), and similar.

The material tapes are continuously fed through the machine 100 along respective paths and are joined, shaped, conformed and/or cut, to originate the absorbent products.

In the schematic example shown in figure 1 , the machine comprises a supplying station 101 of a continuous tape 102 of the above-described type, in a material suitable for realizing absorbent products. The supplying station 101 is configured for advancing the continuous tape 102 along a corresponding advancing path P and according to an advancing direction D, represented by the corresponding arrow in figure 1 .

It is possible that the supplying station 101 comprises two reel holders which support corresponding reels of continuous tape-like material for absorbent products and spools for feeding a plurality of elastic threads. The tape-like material and the elastics are coupled so that the elastic threads are interposed between the tapelike materials such as to form the supplying continuous tape 102 to the machine 100 for realizing the absorbent products.

Still with reference to figure 1 , at least one dispensing device 1 of an adhesive viscous fluid 2, in particular glue, optionally hot glue, is operatively arranged along the advancing path P defined by the machine 100, downstream of the supplying station 101. The dispensing device 1 which will be described in detail below, is configured for dispensing hot glue on the continuous tape 102 in such a way as to prepare it to receive in engagement corresponding absorbing inserts, necessary for the realization of the producing absorbing products.

Downwards of the dispensing device 1 , along the advancing path P of the continuous tape 102, is provided at least one applying station 103 which is configured for apply, in orderly succession, on the continuous tape 102 a plurality of absorbing inserts 104, deriving from a corresponding delivery branch 105 of the absorbing inserts 104, while the continuous tape 102 advances along the advancing path P.

The applying station 103 comprises usually a rotating wheel 106 provided with a peripheral surface which forms a transport surface 107 for the absorbing inserts 104. The rotating wheel 106 comprises for example suction devices not shown and operatively active on the peripheral surface, to hold the absorbing inserts 104, transport them and release them one at a time onto the continuous tape 102 on which it has been deposited the adhesive viscous fluid 2.

Obviously, the scheme of the machine 100 shown in figure 1 can vary according to multiple configurations and combinations depending on the production and space requirements of the machine itself. In addition, the machine 100 can provide for different application points of the adhesive viscous fluid 2 where to arrange a corresponding dispensing device 1 such as the one which will be described in the following with the help of figures from 2 to 8.

With reference to figures 2 to 8, the dispensing device 1 , according to the present invention comprises a body 3 defined substantially by a first semi-block 4 and a second semi-block 5 reciprocally engageable by means of a pair of fastening elements 6 (visible in dashed line in figures 3 and 4), optionally of threaded type, such as for example suitable screws, bolts, Allen keys, etc., suitably inserted in corresponding fastening openings 4b, 5b obtained through the corresponding semi-blocks 4, 5 of the body 3.

As visible in figures 3 and 4, the fastening openings 4b of the first semi-block 4, are of the passing-through type since they must allow the respective fastening elements to be inserted from one side and to protrude from the other to engage the corresponding fastening openings 5 of the second semi-block 5. On the other hand, the fastening openings 5b of the second semi-block 5 are of the blind type and are threaded to allow for the gripping by the respective fastening elements 6 which press a semi-block 4, 5 against the other, defining the body 3 of the dispensing device 1 .

Advantageously, the dispensing device 1 is provided with a plurality of dispensing nozzles 7 for the adhesive viscous fluid 2 which lie on a same lying plane interposed between the first semi-block 4 and the second semi-block 5.

As visible in figures 2 and 7, the dispensing nozzles 7 are distributed along a dispensing edge 3a of the body 3, which protrudes with respect to the latter (figures from 2 to 7).

In detail, the dispensing nozzles 7 are spaced with respect to each other, along the dispensing edge 3a of the body 3, optionally according to the same distance.

Each dispensing nozzle 7 has a straight development with a dispensing spout 7a localized at the dispensing edge 3 of the body 3 and an end 7b arranged on the opposite side with respect to the dispensing spout 7a. The dispensing device 1 is furthermore provided with a plurality of pairs 8 of dispensing channels 8a of a gas, lying on the same lying plane of the dispensing nozzles 7 and distributed too along the dispensing edge 3a of the body 3. Each pair 8 of dispensing channels 8a is associated to a corresponding dispensing nozzle 7 so that each dispensing nozzle 7 results interposed between the dispensing channels 8a of the corresponding pair 8. The dispensing channels 8a of each pair 8 converge toward the corresponding dispensing nozzle 7 having corresponding dispensing spouts 8b arranged at the dispensing edge 3a of the body 3. In detail, the dispensing channels 8a of each pair 8 converge with respect to each other approaching the dispensing spouts 7a, 8b of the corresponding dispensing nozzle 7 and of the corresponding dispensing channels 8a.

On the opposite side with respect to the dispensing spouts 7a, 8b the dispensing channels 8a of each pair 8, diverge from each other in moving away from such dispensing spouts 7a, 8b. Obviously, as the dispensing channels 8a of each pair 8 move away from each other, they also move away with respect to the corresponding dispensing nozzle 7.

As visible in the enlargement of figure 8, the dispensing spout 7a of each dispensing nozzle 7 is backward with respect to the dispensing spouts 8b of the dispensing channels 8a of the corresponding pair 8. In detail, the dispensing spout 7a of each dispensing nozzle 7 is more distant from the dispensing edge 3a of the body 3 with respect to the distance of the dispensing spouts 8b of the dispensing channels 8a of the corresponding pair 8. The staggered position of the dispensing spouts 7a, 8b respectively of each dispensing nozzle 7 and of the dispensing channels 8a of the corresponding pairs 8, with the dispensing spouts 7a of the dispensing nozzles 7 backward with respect to the dispensing spouts 8b of the corresponding dispensing channels 8a determines, at least partially, a suction effect of the adhesive viscous fluid 2 which derives from each dispensing nozzle 7 towards the outer of the dispensing device 1 and, in particular, toward the supplying continuous tape 102 along the advancing path P defined by the machine 100.

In detail, the dispensing channels 8a of each pair 8 generates a Venturi effect at the dispensing spout 7a of the corresponding dispensing nozzle 7 which facilitates and eases the dispensing of the adhesive viscous fluid 2.

According to the present invention, it is also possible to provide that the dispensing channels 8a of each pair 8 develop parallel to the respective dispensing nozzle 7 or have a first section converging toward the respective dispensing nozzle 7 and a second section parallel thereto.

The dispensing channels 8a are configured for dispensing a pressurized gas, optionally compressed air at an operating pressure between 2 bar and 5 bar, optionally between 3 bar and 4 bar, in particular about 3,5 bar. Advantageously, the compressed air used through the dispensing channels 8a is heated at a temperature between 140° C and 200° C, in particular between 150° C and 190° C, more in particular between 160° C and 180° C, optionally equal to about 170°.

Still with reference to the figure enlargement 8, the dispensing spout 7a of each dispensing nozzle 7 is in fluid communication with the dispensing spouts 8b of the dispensing channels 8a of the respective pair 8 in such a way as to define, on the dispensing edge 3a of the body 3, a respective common dispensing cavity 3b from which emerge adhesive viscous fluid 2 and gas.

As visible in figure 2, the lying plane of the dispensing nozzles 7 and of the corresponding pairs 8 of the dispensing channels 8a is defined at least by a respective coupling surface 4a of the first semi-block 4. Advantageously, both the dispensing nozzles 7 and the dispensing channels 8a are realized directly in the respective coupling surface 4a of the first semi-block 4, in particular by means of material removal, even more in particular by means of a mechanical machining, for example by means of micro-milling, or by means of at least one laser machining. Both the dispensing nozzles 7 and the dispensing channels 8a have extremely small dimensions resulting in fact micro-dispensing nozzles and micro-dispensing channels. In detail, the dispensing nozzles 7 and the dispensing channels have each one a width between 0,1 mm and 0,6 mm, optionally between 0,2 mm and 0,4 mm, in particular between 0,25 mm and 0,35 mm, and a depth between 0,1 mm and 0,6 mm, optionally between 0,2 mm and 0,4 mm, in particular between 0,25 mm and 0,35 mm. Advantageously, each dispensing nozzle 7 and each dispensing channel 8a have the same width and the same depth.

On the opposite side with respect to the coupling surface 4a of the first semi-block, the dispensing nozzles 7 and the dispensing channels 8a are at least partly defined by a sealing plate 11 , substantially plain, which is configured for remaining interposed between the first semi-block 4 and the second semi-block 5. In particular, the sealing plate 11 is configured for remaining in adhesion to the coupling surface 4a of the first semi-block 4 and closing, isolating them, both the dispensing nozzles 7 and the dispensing channels 8a on the opposite side with respect to the coupling surface 4a of the first semi-block 4.

The sealing plate 11 thus serves as a separating element between the two semi-blocks 4, 5, as well as an insulating element of the dispensing nozzles 7 with respect to the dispensing channels 8a.

As visible in the exploded view of figure 2, the sealing plate 1 1 also comprises corresponding passing-through fastening openings 11b, configured for receiving in engagement the corresponding fastening elements 6 which are inserted into the fastening openings 4b, 5b respectively of the first semi-block 4 and of the second semi-block 5.

When the body 3 of the dispensing device 1 is assembled (figures 3 to 5) the sealing plate 11 is interposed between the two semi-blocks 4, 5. The fastening openings 4b, 5b and 11 b are reciprocally aligned and crossed by the corresponding fasteners 6 which lock the assembly composed by the semi-blocks 4 and by the sealing plate 11.

Again with reference to figure 2, the sealing plate 11 is provided with a plurality of connection through openings 11 a opportunely obtained according to positions which, in the condition of the assembled body 3, result each one in fluid communication with a respective dispensing nozzle 7. In particular, the connecting openings 11a are obtained through the sealing plate 11 in such a way as to correspond each one to the end 7b of the corresponding dispensing nozzle 7 which is on the opposite side with respect to the corresponding dispensing spout 7a.

In order to ensure a continuous supply and delivery of adhesive viscous fluid 2 and of gas, respectively to the dispensing nozzles 7 and to the dispensing channels 8a, the dispensing device 1 is provided with at least one supplying duct 9 of the adhesive viscous fluid 2 and one delivery duct 10 of the gas both developing through at least one of the semi-blocks 4, 5.

In detail, the supplying duct 9 develops mainly, optionally only, through the second semi-block 5 of the body 3.

The supplying duct 9 comprises a conveying portion 9a which develops through the second semi-block 5 of the body 3 between a respective outer connection junction 9b, opportunely connectable to a supplying source of the adhesive viscous fluid 2 which is not part of the dispensing device 1 , and a corresponding coupling surface 5a configured for remaining at the sealing plate 11 on the opposite side with respect to the coupling surface 4a of the first semi-block 4. The supplying duct 9 of the adhesive viscous fluid 2 comprises also a distribution chamber 9c in fluid communication with the corresponding conveying portion 9a and in fluid communication with the dispensing nozzles 7 through the corresponding connection through openings 11a of the sealing plate 11. The distribution chamber 9c results then interposed between the corresponding conveying portion 9a and the coupling surface 5a of the second-block 5, as well as the sealing plate 11 . In other words, the distribution chamber 9c flows into coupling surface 5a of the second semi-block 5 of the body 3 at which it is closed by the sealing plate 1 1 which allows only the passage of the adhesive viscous fluid 2 at the ends 7b of the dispensing nozzles 7 through the connection through openings 11a.

As visible in figure 2, the distribution chamber 9c has a substantially elongated conformation for distributing the adhesive viscous fluid 2 which derives from the relative conveying portion 9a to all the connection through openings 11a of the sealing plate 11 and to all the dispensing nozzles 7 localized at the coupling surface 4a of the first semi-block 4.

The delivery duct 10 develops mainly, optionally only, through the first semi-block 4.

In detail, the delivery duct 10 comprises a conveying portion 10a which develops through the first semi-block 4 between an outer connection junction 10b, opportunely connectable to a delivery source of the gas which is not part of the dispensing device 1 and the coupling surface 4a.

The delivery duct 10 comprises furthermore a distribution chamber 10c in fluid communication with the conveying portion 10a and with the dispensing channels 8a by means of corresponding connection junctions 8c which are on the opposite side with respect to the dispensing edge 3a of the body 3. The distribution chamber 10c is then interposed between the conveying portion 10a and the coupling surface 4a of the first semi-block 4, as well as the sealing plate 11 .

In other words, the distribution chamber 10c flows into coupling surface 4a of the first semi-block 4 in correspondence thereof is closed by the sealing plate 1 1 being able only to flow towards the dispensing channels 8a through the respective connection junctions 8c.

As visible in figure 2, the distribution chamber 10c has a substantially elongated conformation for distributing the gas deriving from the conveying portion 10a to all the dispensing channels 8a localized at the coupling surface 4a of the first semi-block 4.

It also forms an object of the present invention a dispensing method of the adhesive viscous fluid 2 on the continuous tape 102 advancing along the advancing path P defined by the machine 100 above described in a schematic manner.

The dispensing method of the adhesive viscous fluid 2 comprises at least one step of dispensing of a plurality of chords of the adhesive viscous fluid 2 on an unique lying plane and according to directions substantially parallel and transversal to the continuous tape 102 advancing along the advancing path P. The dispensing of the chords of the adhesive viscous fluid is carried out through the dispensing nozzles 7 of the dispensing device 1 .

The method comprises also at least one dispensing step, for each chord of adhesive viscous fluid 2 to dispense ordispensing, of a pair of gas flows, optionally hot compressed air, so that these gas flows converge towards each other and both toward the corresponding chord of the dispensing adhesive viscous fluid 2. Also in this case, gas flows are dispensed along the same lying plane of the chords of dispensing adhesive viscous fluid 2. The dispensing of the gas flows is carried out by means of the pairs 8 of the dispensing channels 8a which are associated each one to a respective dispensing nozzle 7.

Advantageously, as perceptible from the enlargement in figure 8, the dispensing of each pair of gas flows, is carried out according to an advanced position with respect to the dispensing point of the corresponding chord of the adhesive viscous fluid 2, so that each pair of gas flows determines, at least partially, a suction effect and/or dragging of the respective chord of dispensing adhesive viscous fluid 2 toward the continuous tape 102 which advances along the advancing path P of the machine 100.

According to an advantageous aspect of the present invention, the dispensing point of the gas flows of each pair of flows is close to the dispensing point of the respective chord of adhesive viscous fluid 2 so that the chord of adhesive viscous fluid 2 meets the respective gas flows when they still have a high pressure value. In detail, the dispensing point of the gas flows of each pair of flows is distant, with respect to the dispensing point of the respective chord of adhesive viscous fluid 2, according to a distance between 0,05 mm and 0,25 mm, optionally about 0,1 mm.

According to a first embodiment variant of the dispensing method, it is possible to provide that the dispensing of the gas flows and the dispensing of the adhesive viscous fluid 2 are carried out continuously, at least during the advancing of the continuous tape 102 along the advancing path P defined by the machine 100 and/or by the plant of realization of the absorbent products.

According to a second embodiment variant of the dispensing method, at least the dispensing of the chords of adhesive viscous fluid 2 is carried out according to an intermittent mode, at least during the advancing of the continuous tape 102 along the advancing path P defined by the machine 100 and/or by the plant of realization of the absorbent products. In this situation, the dispensing of the chords of adhesive viscous fluid 2 can be carried out continuously or too according to an intermittent mode. However, in both cases, the dispensing of the gas flows must be active before the dispensing of the chords of adhesive viscous fluid 2 to ensure the accuracy and cleaning during the deposition step of the adhesive viscous fluid 2 on the advancing tape 102.

In case of intermittent dispensing both the chords of adhesive viscous fluid 2 and gas flows, it is preferable that the gas flows are placed in dispensing before the activation of the dispensing of the chords of adhesive viscous fluid 2 and are stopped only after stopping the dispensing of the chords of adhesive viscous fluid 2.

Advantages

The present invention allows to solve the problems encountered in the known art and to obtain the following advantages.

First of all, the dispensing device thus designed allows extremely efficient dispensing both in terms of the precision of the deposition of the adhesive viscous fluid on the supplying continuous tape along the supplying path defined by the relative machine for the production of the absorbent products, and in relation to the cleaning of dispensing.

Furthermore, the body of the dispensing device has a small number of components with respect to dispensers of known art determining low production and marketing costs.

It should also be considered that the small number of components facilitates and simplifies both ordinary and extraordinary maintenance operations, consequently also reducing the times and costs related to such maintenance interventions.

List

1 Dispensing device

2 Adhesive viscous fluid

3 Body of the dispensing device

3a Dispensing edge of the body

3b Common dispensing opening

4 First semi-block of the body

4a Coupling surface of the first semi-block

4b Fastening openings of the first semi-block

5 Second semi-block of the body

5a Coupling surface of the second semi-block

5b Fastening openings of the second semi-block

6 Fastening element of the semi-blocks

7 Dispensing nozzles of the adhesive viscous fluid

7a Dispensing spouts of the dispensing nozzles

7b Ends of the dispensing nozzles

8 Pairs of dispensing channels of the gas

8a Dispensing channels

8b Dispensing spouts of the dispensing channels

8c Connection junctions of the dispensing channels

9 Supplying duct of the adhesive viscous fluid

9a Conveying portion of the supplying duct

9b Connection junction of the supplying duct

9c Distribution chamber of the supplying duct

10 Gas delivery duct

10a Conveying portion of the delivery duct

10b Connection junction of the delivery duct

10c Distribution chamber of the delivery duct

11 Sealing plate

11a Connection openings of the sealing plate

11b Fastening openings of the sealing plate

100 Machine for the realization of absorbent products

101 Supplying station of a continuous tape

102 Continuous tape 103 Applying station of absorbing inserts

104 Absorbing inserts

105 Delivery branch of the absorbing inserts

106 Revolving wheel of the applying station D Advancing direction of the continuous tape

P Advancing path of the continuous tape

Claims

1. Dispensing device (1) of an adhesive viscous fluid (2) for a machine and/or a plant for the realization of absorbent products, the dispensing device (1) comprising:

- a body (3);

- a plurality of dispensing nozzles (7) of the adhesive viscous fluid (2), the dispensing nozzles (7) being distributed along a dispensing edge (3a) of the body (3) and being spaced from each other;

- a plurality of pairs (8) of dispensing channels of a gas (8a) distributed along the dispensing edge (3a), each pair (8) of dispensing channels (8a) being associated to a corresponding dispensing nozzle (7) so that each dispensing nozzle (7) results interposed between the dispensing channels (8a) of the corresponding pair (8), each dispensing channel (8a) having a corresponding dispensing spout (8b) arranged at the dispensing edge (3a);

- at least one supplying duct (9) of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) developing through at least one portion of the body (3), the supplying duct (9) being in fluid communication with the dispensing nozzles (7) and being connectable to a supplying source of the adhesive viscous fluid (2);

- at least one gas delivery duct (10) developing through at least one portion of the body (3), the delivery duct (10) being in fluid communication with the dispensing channels (8a) of each of the pairs (8) and being connectable to a gas supplying source;

- each dispensing nozzle (7) being provided with a dispensing spout (7a) backward with respect to the dispensing spouts (8b) of the dispensing channels (8a) of the corresponding pair (8), the dispensing of gas through the dispensing spouts (8b) of the dispensing channels (8a) determining, at least partially, a suction effect of the adhesive viscous fluid (2) which derives from the corresponding dispensing nozzle (7) towards the outer of the dispensing device (1 ); wherein the dispensing nozzles (7) lie on a same lying plane of the body (3) and the pairs (8) of dispensing channels lie on the same lying plane of the dispensing nozzles (7).

2. Dispensing device (1) according to claim 1 , wherein the dispensing spout (7a) of each dispensing nozzle (7) is in fluid communication with the dispensing spouts (8b) of the dispensing channels (8a) of the corresponding pair (8).

3. Dispensing device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the dispensing spout (7a) of each dispensing nozzle (7) and the dispensing spouts (8b) of the respective dispensing channels (8a) define, on the dispensing edge (3a) of the body (3), a corresponding common dispensing cavity (3b).

4. Dispensing device (1) according to claim 1 or 2 or 3, wherein the dispensing channels (8a) of each pair (8) diverge with respect to each other moving away from the dispensing spouts (7a, 8b) of the corresponding dispensing nozzle (7) and of the corresponding dispensing channels (8a).

5. Dispensing device (1) according to any one of the claims 1 to 4, wherein the dispensing channels (8a) of each pair (8) develop from the respective dispensing spouts (7a, 8b) respectively of the corresponding dispensing nozzle (7) and of the corresponding dispensing channels (8a) according to a length greater with respect to the development of the respective dispensing nozzle (7) from the same dispensing spouts (7a, 8b).

6. Dispensing device (1) according to any one of the claims 1 to 5, wherein the body (3) is defined at least by a first semi-block (4) and a second semi-block (5) reciprocally engaged through at least one fastening element (6), the first semi-block (4) and the second semi-block (5) having each one a respective coupling surface (4a, 5a) configured for engaging the coupling surface (4a, 5a) of the other semi-block (4, 5), directly or through the interposition of at least one sealing plate (11).

7. Dispensing device (1) according to claim 6, wherein the supplying duct (9) develops through the second semi-block (5), and the delivery duct (10) develops through the first semi-block (4).

8. Dispensing device (1) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the lying plane of the dispensing nozzles (7) and of the corresponding pairs (8) of the dispensing channels (8a) is defined by the coupling surface (4a) of the first semi-block (4).

9. Dispensing device (1) according to claim 8, wherein the dispensing nozzles (7) and the dispensing channels (8a) of the corresponding pairs (8) are realized directly in the respective coupling surface (4a) of the first semi-block (4) by removal of material through a mechanical machining or by means of at least one laser machining.

10. Dispensing device (1) according to any one of the claims 6 to 9, wherein the dispensing nozzles (7) and the dispensing channels (8a) of the corresponding pairs (8) are at least partly defined by the sealing plate (11) which is configured for remaining interposed between the first semi-block (4) and the second semi-block (5), in adhesion to the coupling surface (4a) of the first semi-block (4) and to the coupling surface (5a) of the second semi-block (5), the sealing plate (11) being substantially plain and closing the dispensing nozzles (7) and the dispensing channels (8a) on the opposite side with respect to the coupling surface (4a) of the first semi-block (4).

11. Dispensing device (1 ) according to any one of the claims 6 to 10, wherein: the delivery duct (10) comprises: a conveying portion (10a) which develops through the first semi-block (4) between an outer connection junction (10b) and the respective coupling surface (4a); and a distribution chamber (10c) in fluid communication with the conveying portion (10a) and with the dispensing channels (8a), the distribution chamber (10c) being interposed between the conveying portion (10a) and the coupling surface (4a) of the first semi-block (4); the supplying duct (9) comprises: a conveying portion (9a) which develops through the second semi-block (5) between a corresponding outer connection junction (9b) and the corresponding coupling surface (5a) and is configured for standing at the sealing plate (11) on the opposite side with respect to the coupling surface (4a) of the first semi-block (4); and a distribution chamber (9c) in fluid communication with the corresponding conveying portion (9a) and in fluid communication with the dispensing nozzles (7) through corresponding connection through openings (11 b) obtained through the sealing plate (11), the distribution chamber (9c) being interposed between the corresponding conveying portion (9a) and the coupling surface (5a) of the second semi-block (5).

12. Dispensing device (1 ) according to claim 11 , wherein: the distribution chamber (10c) of the delivery duct (10) flows into the coupling surface (4a) of the first semi-block (4) and is in fluid communication with the dispensing channels (8a) on the opposite side with respect to the corresponding dispensing spouts (7a, 8b) respectively of the dispensing nozzles (7) and of the dispensing channels (8a), said distribution chamber (10c) being closed by the sealing plate (11); the distribution chamber (9c) of the supplying duct (9) flows into the coupling surface (5a) of the second semi-block (5) and is in fluid communication with the dispensing nozzles (7) on the opposite side with respect to the corresponding dispensing spouts (7a, 8b) respectively of the dispensing nozzles (7) and of the dispensing channels (8a), said distribution chamber (9c) being closed by the sealing plate (11 ) and the connection through openings (11 b) of the latter being each localized according to a position corresponding to an end (7b) of the respective dispensing nozzle (7) opposed to the corresponding dispensing spout (7a) of the latter, the distribution chamber (9c) of the supplying duct (9) being localized according to a position closer to the dispensing edge (3a) with respect to the position of the distribution chamber (10c) of the delivery duct (10).

13. Dispensing device (1 ) according to any one of the claims 11 or 12, wherein: the distribution chamber (10c) of the delivery duct (10) has a substantially elongated conformation for distributing the gas deriving from the respective conveying portion (10a) to all the dispensing channels (8a); the distribution chamber (9c) of the supplying duct (9) has a substantially elongated conformation for distributing the adhesive viscous fluid (2) deriving from the relative conveying portion (9a) to all the connection through openings (1 1 b) of the sealing plate (11 ) and to all the dispensing nozzles (7).

14. Dispensing device (1) according to any one of the claims 1 to 13, wherein the dispensing channels (8a) of each pair (8) converge toward the respective dispensing nozzle (7).

15. Machine (100) for the realization of absorbent products, the machine (100) comprising:

- at least one dispensing device (1) of an adhesive viscous fluid (2) operatively arranged between the supplying station (101) and the applying station (103) for joining each absorbing insert (104) applied in the applying station (103) to the continuous tape (102) advancing along the advancing path (P), the dispensing device (1) being defined according to any one of the claims 1 to 14.