Improvements in or relating to a method of filling containers and an apparatus for stacking articles into layers

882,092. Packaging and stacking devices. UNILEVER Ltd. March 24, 1958 [March 27, 1957], No. 9968/57. Class 94(1). A device for forming a stack of articles either on a support or in a container comprises a tilting platform on which a layer of articles is formed in a horizontal plane, the platform then tilting through 90 degrees and advancing to deposit the layer vertically against a previous layer. In the preferred embodiment, articles 3 are advanced by a conveyer belt 4 on to a roller platform 2, the foremost article contracting a switch 5 so that a pusher 6 forces the row of articles on to a platform 7. A second row forms on the platform 2 and the pusher, with a longer stroke, forces both it and the previous layer on to the tilting platform 8. Arms 35 move the platform 8, which is guided by a roller 41 running on a guide rail 42, so that it pivots clockwise and moves to the left as shown, its slotted forward end 9 entering the slotted portion 13 of a stacking support 12. The layer of articles is thus deposited upright on the support 12 and pushes forward any previous layer. The support may comprise the side wall of a carton which when filled with articles is tilted on to a conveyer 15 for removal. In other embodiments (not shown), the platform 7 may be dispensed with. The pusher 6 also may be dispensed with, articles being fed directly on to the platform 8. Alternatively, the pusher may have a component of motion in the direction of feed of the conveyer 4 so that articles may advance continuously. Two pushers may be employed, one to transfer articles from the platform 2 and the other, on to the platform 8.