Device and method for moving tubular bodies

Abstract

A device for moving tubular bodies, includes feeding means for feeding a plurality of tubular pieces, each extending along a respective axis of extension, where the feeding means are configured in such a way as to provide a succession of groups of tubular pieces where each group is defined by a predetermined number of tubular pieces positioned in succession along the respective axis of extension and transversely offset therefrom, and at least one translational transfer means configured to move the pieces along the respective axis of extension to juxtapose them and define an ordered succession of pieces. The translational transfer means is provided with at least one housing for containing at least one tubular piece and with blowing means operating inside the housing and configured to produce an air cushion by which the tubular piece is transferred translationally outside the housing along its respective axis of extension.

1 - 13 . (canceled) 
     
     
         14 . A method for moving tubular bodies, made preferably of paper, cardboard or plastic material, comprising the steps of:
 preparing at least one elongate tubular element extending along a respective main axis and having a predetermined length “L”;   dividing the at least one tubular element into a plurality of tubular pieces positioned coaxially in succession along the main axis;   offsetting the tubular pieces by translationally transferring all or some of them along a direction transverse to the main axis;   translationally transferring all or some of the tubular pieces along the main axis so as to juxtapose them to define an ordered succession of pieces extending transversely to the main axis;   wherein the translational transfer step is performed by means of a blowing action on an outside face of a side wall of the tubular pieces to produce an air cushion capable of translationally transferring them.   
     
     
         15 . The method according to  claim 14 , wherein the blowing action is performed by directing the air flow at an inclination at least partly concordant with a direction of translation of the tubular piece.