Package grouping unit with package linear speed reduction

Abstract

Package grouping unit for a packaging line operable to produce multipacks; the grouping unit () comprises a linear conveyor () operable to feed a succession of packages () at a first speed (V); and at least one grouping assembly () formed by two sub-assemblies (); wherein each sub-assembly comprises a pair of endless conveyors () and define, with the endless conveyors () of the other sub-assembly (), a package grouping channel () having a package inlet () and a group outlet (); each endless conveyor is provided with a number of package retaining elements (); the endless conveyors are operable independently from each other to move a first retaining element () through the package inlet () at a second speed (V) lower than the first speed (V) so as to intercept and slow down a first package () in the succession and cause the packages () to group; and to move a second retaining element (), carried by a different endless conveyor (), through the package inlet () so as to intercept the last package () in the succession and define, with the first retaining element (), a seat that is so sized as to accommodate a package group () and is movable, with the package group (), along the grouping channel ().