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Title:
PACKAGING FILM DISPENSER AND WEARABLE SUPPORT ELEMENT ASSEMBLY, KIT, FILM DISPENSER, WEARABLE SUPPORT ELEMENT, PACKAGING METHOD
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2023/126794
Kind Code:
A1
Abstract:
The present invention relates to a wearable packaging film dispenser assembly (1) comprising - a dispenser (2) for packaging film reels, wherein said dispenser (2) is adapted to rotatably support a packaging film reel (25) for wrapping/packaging a load (26), and - a wearable support element (3) configured to connect said dispenser (2) to a user and to support said dispenser (2) leaving the hands of said user free, wherein said wearable element (3) comprises at least one flexible portion (4) adapted to be connected to said user, wherein said dispenser (2) is reversibly connected to said wearable support element (3) by reversible connection means (8, 9).

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Inventors:
FERRARIO PAOLO (IT)
PISANI RAFFAELE (IT)
Application Number:
PCT/IB2022/062680
Publication Date:
July 06, 2023
Filing Date:
December 22, 2022
Export Citation:
Click for automatic bibliography generation   Help
Assignee:
FERRARIO PAOLO (IT)
International Classes:
B65B11/02; B65B67/08; B65H16/00; B65H16/06
Foreign References:
US20070051474A12007-03-08
US20180290853A12018-10-11
US6739542B12004-05-25
US10766656B22020-09-08
US10479631B12019-11-19
DE202014102068U12014-05-20
US10351744B22019-07-16
US20080173662A12008-07-24
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
SIGNORI, Ludovico et al. (IT)
Download PDF:
Claims:
CLAIMS

1. A wearable packaging film dispenser assembly (1) characterized in that it comprises

- a dispenser (2) for packaging film reels, wherein said dispenser (2) is adapted to rotatably support a packaging film reel (25) for wrapping/packaging a load (26), and

- a wearable support element (3) configured to connect said dispenser (2) to a user and to support said dispenser (2) leaving the hands of said user free, wherein said wearable element (3) comprises at least one flexible portion (4) adapted to be connected to said user, wherein said dispenser (2) is reversibly connected to said wearable support element (3) by reversible connection means (9, 10).

2. An assembly (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein said dispenser (2) comprises a longitudinal frame (13) which mainly extends along a longitudinal frame direction (X-X), wherein said dispenser (2) comprises a first mandrel (15) adapted to support said reel (25) rotatably about a rotation axis (A), wherein said first mandrel (15) is connected to said longitudinal frame (13) by a first mandrel bracket (20) which projects, preferably from one end of said longitudinal frame (13), along a transverse direction with respect to said longitudinal frame direction (X-X), so as to arrange the rotation axis (A) substantially parallel to the longitudinal frame direction (X-X), wherein the longitudinal frame (13) is reversibly connected to said wearable support element (3) by reversible connection means (9, 10).

26

3. An assembly (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein said flexible connection portion (4) comprises at least one connecting band (5, 6, 7, 8) extending along an incident direction with respect to the longitudinal frame direction (X-X) to be connected to said user at at least one of a belt of said user, a shoulder of said user, a thigh of said user, an ankle of said user or a calf of said user, so that, in use, the rotation axis (A) is arranged substantially incident and/or transverse to a ground on which the load (26) rests directly or indirectly and so that, in use, the rotation axis (A) is substantially aligned parallel to a leg of the user and the dispenser (2) is supported in a position close to the ground, wherein the longitudinal frame (13) is reversibly connected to said first flexible connection portion (4) by reversible connection means (9, 10).

4. An assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said flexible connection portion (4) comprises a first band (5) and a second band (6), wherein said first band (5) and said second band (6) are reversibly connected to the dispenser (2) spaced apart from each other extending along respective directions to be connected to said user in at least two areas of said user supporting the dispenser (2) adjacent to a leg of the user, wherein said first band (5) is configured to be connected to the belt of said user and/or a shoulder of said user or a thigh of said user, and wherein said second band (6) is configured to be connected to a thigh of said user or an ankle or a calf of said user and/or wherein said flexible connection portion (4) comprises a third band (7) and a fourth band (8), wherein said third band (7) and said fourth band (8) are reversibly connected to the dispenser (2) spaced apart from each other extending along respective directions to be connected to said user in at least two areas of said user supporting the dispenser (2) adjacent to a leg of the user, wherein said third band (7) is configured to be connected a thigh of said user, wherein said fourth band (8) is configured to be connected to an ankle or a calf of said user and/or wherein each band (5, 6, 7, 8) of said flexible connection portion (4) comprises a pair of connection portions, wherein each band (5, 6, 7, 8) is configured to be wrapped around said user, wherein said pair of connection portions is configured to constrain the respective band (5, 6, 7, 8) to said user.

5. An assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said reversible connection means (8, 9) comprise at least one male element (9) and at least one female element (10) connected to said dispenser (2) and said wearable support element (3), respectively, or vice versa, wherein said at least one male element (9) and said at least one female element (10) are reversibly connected to each other by shape coupling or by engagement.

6. An assembly (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein said dispenser (2) comprises a longitudinal frame (13) which mainly extends along a longitudinal frame direction (X-X), wherein said dispenser (2) comprises a first mandrel (15) adapted to support said reel (25), wherein said first mandrel (15) is connected to said longitudinal frame (13) by a first mandrel bracket (20) which projects, preferably from one end of said longitudinal frame (13), along a transverse direction with respect to said longitudinal frame direction (X-X), wherein said wearable support element (3) comprises a longitudinal bracket (14) which mainly extends along a longitudinal bracket direction (X-X), wherein said flexible connection portion (4) is connected to said longitudinal bracket (14) and extends along an incident direction with respect to the longitudinal bracket direction (Y-Y) to be connected to said user, wherein said at least one male element (9) is connected to said longitudinal frame (13) and said at least one female element (10) is connected to said longitudinal bracket (14), or vice versa, for reversibly connecting said dispenser (2) to said wearable support element (3).

7. An assembly (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein said male element (9) is a protrusion (11) which projects from said longitudinal frame (13) along a transverse direction with respect to said longitudinal frame direction (X-X) and said female element (10) is a housing (12) obtained in said longitudinal bracket (14) or vice versa, and/or wherein said flexible connection portion (4) comprises a first band (5) and a second band (6), wherein said first band (5) and said second band (6) are connected to said longitudinal bracket (14) spaced apart from each other along said longitudinal bracket direction (Y-Y), and wherein said first band (5) and said second band (6) extend along respective incident directions with respect to said longitudinal bracket direction (Y-Y) for the connection with said user in at least two areas of said user, spaced apart along a direction parallel to said longitudinal bracket direction (Y-Y), and/or and/or wherein said first flexible connection portion (4) comprises a third band (7) and a fourth band (8), wherein said third band (7) and said fourth band (8) are connected to said longitudinal bracket (14) spaced apart from each other along said longitudinal bracket direction (Y-Y), and wherein said third band (7) and said fourth band (8) extend along respective incident directions with respect to said longitudinal bracket direction (Y-Y) for the connection with said user in at least another two areas of said user, spaced apart along a parallel direction with respect to said longitudinal bracket direction (Y-Y), wherein said first band (5) is configured to be connected to the belt of said user and/or to a shoulder of said user, and wherein said second band (6) is configured to be connected to a thigh of said user, wherein said third band (7) is configured to be connected to said thigh of said user, wherein said fourth band (8) is configured to be connected to an ankle or a calf of said user.

8. An assembly (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein said longitudinal frame direction (X-X) and said longitudinal bracket direction (Y-Y) are parallel, and/or wherein when said protrusion (11) is accommodated in said housing (12), said protrusion (11) cooperates with said housing (12) preventing said longitudinal frame (13) from making movements along transverse directions to said longitudinal bracket direction (Y-Y) with respect to said longitudinal bracket (14), and/or wherein said protrusion (11) is slidingly accommodated in said housing (12) along said bracket direction (Y-Y), and wherein said housing (12) defines a linear guide for said protrusion (11) allowing said dispenser (2) to make a guided linear movement along said bracket direction (Y-Y) between a stroke-end position and at least one sliding position, wherein, in said stroke-end position, said protrusion (11) is completely accommodated in said housing (12), and wherein, in said at least one sliding position, said protrusion (11) is partially outside said housing (12) along said bracket direction (Y-Y).

9. An assembly (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein said longitudinal frame (13) comprises an abutment portion and wherein said longitudinal bracket (14) comprises a counter-abutment portion, or vice versa wherein, when said dispenser (2) is in said stroke-end position, said abutment portion abuts against said counter-portion unloading the weight of said dispenser (2) on said wearable element (3), wherein, when said dispenser (2) is in said at least one sliding position, said abutment portion is spaced apart from said counterabutment portion along said longitudinal bracket direction (Y-Y), wherein said dispenser (3) comprises at least a first handgrip (18) connected to said at least one longitudinal frame (13) at one frame end, wherein said at least a first handgrip is configured to be gripped by said user for moving said dispenser (2) between said resting position, said at least one sliding position, and a separation position, wherein, in said separation position, said protrusion (11) is completely outside said housing (12) along said bracket direction (Y-Y). wherein said dispenser (3) comprises at least a second handgrip (18) connected to said longitudinal frame (13) at an opposite frame end, wherein said second handgrip (19) is configured to be gripped by said user.

10. An assembly (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein said dispenser (2) comprises a second mandrel (16) configured to be rotatably connected to said reel (25) on an opposite side with respect to said first mandrel (15), wherein said second mandrel (16) is made as a separate piece from said longitudinal frame (13) and is connected to said first mandrel (16) only through said reel (25) or wherein said second mandrel (16) is connected to said longitudinal frame (13) by means of a second mandrel bracket (21) which projects transversely to said longitudinal frame direction (X- X) from said longitudinal frame (13), wherein said first mandrel bracket (20) is spaced apart along said longitudinal frame direction (X-X) by means of said second mandrel bracket (21) so as to allow the connection of said reel (25) with said first mandrel (15) and said second mandrel (16), wherein said second mandrel (16) comprises a clutch (17) configured to regulate the rotation of said reel (25).

11. An assembly (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein the dispenser (2) is slidingly connected to the wearable support element (3) so as to slide linearly with respect to the wearable support element (3) along a longitudinal extension direction of the wearable support element (Y-Y) and/or of the dispenser (X-X) for wrapping the load (26) at gradually increasing heights from the ground, keeping the dispenser (2) connected to the wearable support element (3).

12. An assembly (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein said assembly (1) comprises a fixing device (22) configured to fix at least one fixing element (28) to a support (27) on which the load (26) is positioned, wherein said fixing device (22) is connected to said dispenser (2) so that said fixing device (22) is operable by pushing said dispenser (2) against said support with said fixing device (22) interposed between said dispenser (2) and said load support (27) thus preventing said user from stooping and bending his/her back. 13. An assembly (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the fixing device (22) comprises an abutment portion (29) comprising an abutment surface (30) for abutting against said load support (27), and an operating portion (31) connected to said dispenser (2), wherein said operating portion (31) and said abutment portion (29) are connected to each other and mutually movable between a rest configuration and a thrust configuration, wherein said abutment surface (30) is in a distal position with respect to said dispenser (2) in said rest configuration and in a proximal position to said dispenser (2) in said thrust configuration, wherein said operating portion (31) and said abutment portion (29) are constantly biased by an elastic element in said rest configuration, wherein said abutment portion (31) comprises a cartridge housing for accommodating a cartridge comprising a plurality of said at least one fixing element (28), wherein said abutment surface (30) comprises at least one opening in communication with said cartridge housing so that, in said thrust configuration, said fixing element (28) is ejected from said housing for constraining a film portion of said film to said load support (27), and/or wherein said fixing device (22) is a nail gun device and wherein said fixing element (28) is a nail or a U-shaped fixing staple.

14. A kit comprising an assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, and at least one reel (25) configured to be supported by said assembly (1)•

15. A packaging film reel dispenser (2) for a wearable packaging film dispenser assembly (1), wherein said dispenser (2) is adapted to rotatably support a packaging film reel (25) for wrapping/packaging a load (26), characterized in that said dispenser (2) comprises reversible connection means (8, 9) for reversibly connecting said dispenser (2) to a wearable support element (3), wherein said wearable element (3) is configured to support said dispenser (2) leaving a user's hands free and is configured to connect said dispenser (2) to the user by at least one flexible connection portion (4).

16. A wearable support element (3) for a wearable packaging film dispenser assembly (1), characterized in that said wearable element (3) comprises at least one flexible portion (4) adapted to be connected to a user, wherein said wearable support element (3) is configured to connect a packaging film reel dispenser (2) to a user for supporting said dispenser (2) leaving the hands of said user free, wherein said dispenser (2) is adapted to rotatably support a packaging film reel (25) for wrapping/packaging a load (26), wherein said wearable support element (3) comprises reversible connection means (8, 9) for reversibly connecting said wearable support element (3) to said dispenser (2).

17. A method for packaging a load (26) with a packaging film, comprising the steps of:

-providing an assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein said dispenser (2) supports a reel (25) of said packaging film, connecting said wearable element (3) to a user,

-wrapping a lower portion of said load (26) keeping said dispenser (2) connected to said wearable element (3) thus preventing said user from bending his/her back and supporting said dispenser (2) with his/her hands, turning around said load (26).

18. A method for packaging a load (26) with a packaging film, according to the preceding claim, wherein said wearable element (3) is connected at least to a leg of said user so as to arrange a rotation axis (A), with respect to which the reel (25) is rotatable, incident and/or transverse to a ground on which the load (26) rests directly or indirectly, and so as to arrange the packaging film wound onto the reel (25) facing the lower portion of said load (26) which is proximal to the ground, and/or wherein said wearable element (3) is connected to said user so as to support and arrange the dispenser (2) and the reel (25) along a leg of said user in a position close to the ground on which the load (26) rests directly or indirectly.

19. A method for packaging a load (25) with a packaging film, according to any one of the preceding claims 17 to 18, comprising the further steps of:

- separating said dispenser (2) from said wearable element (3), supporting said dispenser (2) with one's own hands,

- wrapping an upper portion of said load (26) with said dispenser (2) supported by the hands of said user, and/or

- sliding said dispenser (2) with respect to said wearable support element (3), lifting said dispenser (2) with at least one hand so as to wrap said load in an intermediate portion of said load without completely separating said dispenser (2) from said wearable support element.

20. A method for packaging a load (26) with a packaging film, according to any one of the preceding claims 17 to 19, comprising the further step of:

- before the step of wrapping a lower portion of said load, constraining a portion of said film to the load or a load support, avoiding bending the user's back, pushing said dispenser against a portion of said film interposed between a fixing device (22) and said load or said load support with the leg of said user.

Description:
"Packaging film dispenser and wearable support element assembly, kit, film dispenser, wearable support element, packaging method"

DESCRIPTION [0001]. Field of the invention

[0002]. The present invention relates to a packaging film reel dispenser and wearable support element assembly, as well as to a film reel dispenser reversibly connectable to a wearable support element, as well as to a wearable support element for reversibly supporting a film reel dispenser, as well as to a method for packaging a load.

[0003]. Background art

[0004]. In the field of machinery for manually packaging a load, packaging film dispensers are known, which are adapted to support a reel or roll of a film wound onto a reel core configured to be handled by a user responsible for packaging a load for manually wrapping the load with one or more layers of film.

[0005]. Such dispensers have a support frame comprising at least one mandrel on which the reel of film is rotatably supported, and at least one handgrip which allows the user to grip the dispenser and apply the film to the load positioned on a support, e.g. a pallet, wrapping it at different heights from the ground or from the support on which the load to be packaged is positioned.

[0006]. One of the drawbacks of the use of dispensers of the known type lies in the need for the user to bend his/her back to handle the dispenser at heights close to the ground, supporting the weight of the dispenser, and gradually lifting the dispenser turning around the load to be packaged for wrapping it.

[0007]. A user responsible for packaging using a dispenser of the known type supports the dispenser throughout the packaging operation with his/her own hands. Thereby, the user must maintain utmost concentration to coordinate his/her movements avoiding discharging the weight of the dispenser and reel on his/her back rather than on his/her legs. However, in the case of inexperienced users, or in the case of repeated packaging operations of numerous loads during a working day, it is inevitable that the backs of users responsible for packaging operations are repeatedly stressed in an incorrect manner generating backache over time.

[0008]. Furthermore, as loads to be packaged usually rest on supports close to the ground, using film dispensers of the known type, users responsible for packaging are obliged to bend their backs at every packaging operation to fix the film to the support or pallet, and then distribute the film around a lower portion of the load, stressing their backs every time they wrap the film.

[0009]. Such packaging operations, using known film dispensers, have a significant effect on the physical integrity of users responsible for packaging who can suffer from constant backache, compromising the quality of the user's working life.

[0010]. Therefore, a need is strongly felt in the field to find solutions for manually packaging a load which allow reducing, if not preventing, the onset of backache in users responsible for packaging. [0011]. A need is strongly felt in the field to find solutions for manually packaging a load which are convenient, easy to use, suitable for users who deal with packaging loads both continuously and sporadically over the working day, which allow simplifying the load packaging operations while making them less tiring for the users responsible for packaging.

[0012]. Therefore, the problem underlying the present invention is to devise a solution for packaging a load, which allows obviating the needs and drawbacks of the prior art.

[0013]. Solution

[0014]. The present invention aims to provide a wearable dispenser assembly, and a dispenser and wearable support element which are reversibly connectable, and a packaging method which allows a user to reduce, if not eliminate, the number of bending events of his/her backs in packaging operations, and which allows discharging the weight of the dispenser, and of the reel supportable by the dispenser, without affecting the user's back, at least during the packaging of the lower portions of the load close to the ground.

[0015]. This and other objects and advantages are achieved by a wearable dispenser assembly for packaging film according to claim 1, a wearable dispenser assembly and reel kit according to claim 14, a dispenser according to claim 15, a wearable support element according to claim 16, and a packaging method according to claim 17.

[0016]. Some advantageous embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0017]. From the analysis of this solution it has emerged how the suggested solution allows obtaining a reduction of the user's fatigue in load packaging operations, thus reducing and limiting the stress events on the user's back with respect to packaging operations of the prior art.

[0018]. Furthermore, due to the provision of a fixing device constrained to a reel dispenser reversibly connectable to a support element wearable by a user, it is possible to avoid the user having to bend his/her back in packaging operations right from the moment of fixing the film onto the support or pallet.

[0019]. Still furthermore, due to the provision of a reel dispenser reversibly connectable to a support element wearable by a user, it is possible for the user to avoid incorrect work postures, reducing the risk of the occurrence of musculoskeletal disorders connected to the packaging work activity.

[0020]. Furthermore, due to the provision of a reel dispenser reversibly connectable to a support element wearable by a user, it is possible for a user to wear the wearable support element at least on the leg of the user and to connect the reel dispenser to the wearable support element to wrap the load in the portion of load close to the ground, and lift the reel dispenser to a position proximal to a portion of the load distal from the ground for wrapping upper portions of the load without bending his/her back, it also being possible to separate the dispenser from the wearable support element once the packaging operation is finished.

[0021]. Furthermore, due to the provision of a reel dispenser which is linearly slidable with respect to the wearable support element along a longitudinal extension direction of the wearable support element and/or of the dispenser, it is possible to lift the dispenser for wrapping the load at gradually increasing heights from the ground, keeping the dispenser connected to the wearable support element.

[0022]. Drawings

[0023]. Further features and advantages of the wearable assembly, the kit, the dispenser, the wearable support element and the packaging method will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments thereof, given by way of non-limiting examples, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [0024]. - figure 1 depicts an axonometric view of a wearable dispenser assembly for packaging film, comprising a wearable support element reversibly connectable to a dispenser which supports a reel of packaging film, according to the present invention;

[0025]. - figure 2 depicts an axonometric view of the assembly in figure 1 worn by a user, in which the wearable element is connected to a leg and to the waist of the user;

[0026]. - figure 3 illustrates an exploded axonometric view of the separate components of the assembly in figure 1, showing the longitudinal frame of the dispenser and the longitudinal bracket of the wearable support element mutually reversibly connectable by reversible connection means comprising at least one male element and a female element which are reversibly connectable;

[0027]. - figure 4 depicts an axonometric view of a user wrapping a first lower portion of a load by the wearable dispenser assembly in figure 1, in which the dispenser is connected to the wearable support element preventing the user having to bend down;

[0028]. - figure 5 depicts an axonometric view of a user wrapping a second lower portion of the load illustrated in figure 4, in which the second lower portion is a portion of the load at a higher height from the ground than said lower portion, by means of the wearable dispenser assembly in figure 1, in which the dispenser is lifted by the user slidingly with respect to the wearable support element maintaining the connection with the wearable support element, preventing the user having to bend down;

[0029]. - figure 6 depicts an axonometric view of a user wrapping an upper portion of a load by the wearable dispenser assembly in figure 1, in which the dispenser is separate from the wearable support element and the user supports the dispenser wrapping the load;

[0030]. - figure 7 depicts an axonometric view of a fixing device configured to expel a fixing element, in which the fixing element is connected to said dispenser, in which the abutment portion and the operating portion of the fixing device are in the rest configuration;

[0031]. - figure 8 depicts an axonometric view of the fixing device in figure 7, in which the abutment portion and the operating portion of the fixing device are in the thrust configuration, in which the fixing element is visible.

[0032]. Description of some preferred embodiments. [0033]. In accordance with a general embodiment, a dispenser 2 for reels of packaging film indicated with reference numeral 1 is provided.

[0034]. Sais assembly 1 comprises a dispenser 2 for reels of packaging film, where said dispenser 2 is adapted to rotatably support a packaging film reel 25 for wrapping/packaging a load 26.

[0035]. Said assembly 1 comprises a wearable support element 3 configured to connect said dispenser 2 to a user and to support said dispenser 2 leaving the hands of said user free. In an embodiment, the wearable support element 3 is configured to connect said dispenser 2 to the user and to support said dispenser 2 leaving the arms of said user free.

[0036]. Said wearable element 3 comprises at least one flexible portion 4 adapted to be connected to said user. For example, the flexible portion 4 is configured to wrap at least one leg of the user. For example, the flexible portion 4 is configured to wrap at least a leg and the pelvis of the user. For example, the flexible portion 4 is configured to be connected to said user without being connected to the arms of said user.

[0037]. Advantageously, said dispenser 2 is reversibly connected to said wearable support element 3 by reversible connection means 9, 10.

[0038]. According to an embodiment, said assembly 1 comprises said reel 25. In accordance with an embodiment, said reel 25 comprises a packaging film, of extensible material, wound onto a reel core. [0039]. In accordance with an embodiment, said reversible connection means 9, 10 comprise at least one male element 9 and at least one female element 10 connected to said dispenser 2 and said wearable support element 3, respectively, or vice versa. In accordance with an embodiment the reversible connection means 9, 10 are quick coupling reversible means. In other words, they are reversible connection means that allow a connection and a separation between the dispenser and the wearable support element 3 without using tools, such as for example screwdrivers, or without the need to unscrew connection elements.

[0040]. In accordance with an embodiment, said at least one male element 9 and said at least one female element 10 are reversibly connectable by shape coupling or by hooking.

[0041]. In accordance with an embodiment, said male element 9 comprises at least one hook and said female element comprises at least one buckle, where said hook is configured to be hooked onto said buckle. In accordance with an embodiment, said male element 9 and said female element 10 are quick tear-off fixing strips.

[0042]. In accordance with an embodiment, said dispenser 2 comprises a longitudinal frame 13 which mainly extends along a longitudinal frame direction X-X. In accordance with an embodiment, the longitudinal frame 13 is reversibly connected to said wearable support element 3 by reversible connection means 9, 10. In accordance with an embodiment, the longitudinal frame 13 is reversibly connected to said first flexible connection portion 4 by reversible connection means 9, 10. [0043]. In accordance with an embodiment, said dispenser 2 comprises a first mandrel 15 adapted to support said reel 25. In accordance with an embodiment, the first mandrel 15 is adapted to rotatably support said reel 25 about a rotation axis A. In accordance with an embodiment, said distributor 2 defines a rotation axis A about which the reel is rotatable. In accordance with an embodiment, the first mandrel 15 defines the rotation axis A, about which the reel 25 can rotate.

[0044]. In accordance with an embodiment, said first mandrel 15 is connected to said longitudinal frame 13 by a first mandrel bracket 20 which projects, preferably from one end of said longitudinal frame 13, along a transverse direction with respect to said longitudinal frame direction X-X. In accordance with an embodiment, said dispenser 2 is connected to the wearable support element 3 so as to arrange the rotation axis A substantially aligned with a leg of a user. In an embodiment, said first mandrel 15 is connected to said longitudinal frame 13 so as to arrange the rotation axis A substantially parallel to the longitudinal frame direction X-X. Thereby it is possible to keep the dispenser connected to the user at a lower height than the user's pelvis, keeping the rotation axis A substantially aligned with the leg of the user and/or substantially transverse to the ground for wrapping the load 26 with the packaging film, without bending the user's back.

[0045]. In accordance with an embodiment, said wearable support element 3 comprises a longitudinal bracket 14 which mainly extends along a longitudinal bracket direction Y-Y. [0046]. In accordance with an embodiment, said flexible connection portion 4 comprises at least one connecting band 5, 6, 7, 8 extending along an incident direction with respect to the longitudinal frame direction X-X to be connected to said user at at least one of a belt of said user, a shoulder of said user, a thigh of said user, an ankle of said user or a calf of said user. Thereby, in use, the rotation axis A is arranged substantially incident and/or transverse to a ground on which the load 26 rests directly or indirectly. Thereby, in use, the rotation axis A is substantially aligned parallel to a leg of the user and the dispenser 2 is supported in a position proximal to the ground.

[0047]. In accordance with an embodiment, said first flexible connection portion 4 comprises at least a first band 5. In accordance with an embodiment, said first flexible connection portion 4 comprises at least a second band 6.

[0048]. In accordance with an embodiment, said first band 5 is reversibly connected to the dispenser 2 to be connected to said user in a first area of said user. In accordance with an embodiment, said first band 5 extends along an incident direction with respect to said longitudinal bracket direction Y-Y to be connected to said user in a first area of said user.

[0049]. In accordance with an embodiment, said second band 6 is reversibly connected to the dispenser 2 to be connected to said user in a second area of said user. In accordance with an embodiment, said second band 6 extends along an incident direction with respect to said longitudinal bracket direction Y-Y to be connected to said user in a second area of said user.

[0050]. In accordance with an embodiment, said first band 5 and said second band 6 are reversibly connected to the dispenser 2 spaced apart from each other extending along respective directions to be connected to said user in at least two areas of said user supporting the dispenser 2 adjacent to a leg of the user. In accordance with an embodiment, said first band 5 and said second band 6 extend along respective incident directions with respect to said longitudinal bracket direction Y-Y to be connected to said user in at least two areas of said user spaced apart along a direction parallel to said longitudinal bracket direction Y-Y. In accordance with an embodiment, said first band 5 is configured to be connected to the belt of said user and/or to a shoulder of said user or a thigh of said user, and where said second band 6 is configured to be connected to a thigh of said user or an ankle or calf of said user, supporting the dispenser 2 on and along a leg of a user. For example, by supporting the dispenser 2 starting from a position proximal to the ankle of the user or the calf of the user, i.e. by supporting the dispenser 2 in a position close to the ground on which the load 26 rests.

[0051]. In accordance with an embodiment, said first band 5 and said second band 6 are connected to said longitudinal bracket 14 spaced apart from each other along said longitudinal bracket direction Y-Y.

[0052]. In accordance with an embodiment, said first flexible connection portion 4 comprises at least a third band 7 and/or at least a fourth band 8.

[0053]. In accordance with an embodiment, said third band 7 is reversibly connected to the dispenser 2 extending along a respective direction to be connected to said user in a third area of said user. In accordance with an embodiment, said fourth band 8 is reversibly connected to the dispenser 2 extending along a respective direction to be connected to said user in a fourth area of said user. In accordance with an embodiment, said third band 7 and said fourth band 8 are reversibly connected to the dispenser 2 spaced apart from each other extending along respective directions to be connected to said user in at least two areas of said user supporting the dispenser 2 adjacent to a leg of the user. In accordance with an embodiment, said third band 7 and/or said fourth band 8 are connected to said longitudinal bracket 14 spaced apart from each other along said longitudinal bracket direction Y-Y, and where said third band 7 and said fourth band 8 extend along respective incident directions with respect to said longitudinal bracket direction Y-Y to be connected to said user in at least another two areas, a third area and a fourth area, of said user, spaced apart along a direction parallel to said longitudinal bracket direction Y-Y.

[0054]. In accordance with an embodiment, said first band 5 is configured to be connected to the belt of said user and/or to a shoulder of said user.

[0055]. In accordance with an embodiment, said second band 6 is configured to be connected to a thigh of said user.

[0056]. In accordance with an embodiment, said third band 7 is configured to be connected to a said thigh of said user.

[0057]. In accordance with an embodiment, said fourth band 8 is configured to be connected to an ankle or a calf of said user.

[0058]. In accordance with an embodiment, each band 5, 6, 7, 8 of said flexible connection portion 4 comprises a pair of connection portions, where each band 5, 6, 7, 8 is configured to be wrapped around said user, where said pair of connection portions is configured to constrain the respective band 5, 6, 7, 8 to said user. In accordance with an embodiment, each pair of connection portions comprises a pair of strips of fabric connectable in a tear-off manner. In accordance with an embodiment, each pair of connection portions comprises a pair of connection strips and means for adjusting the length of the respective band 5, 6, 7, 8.

[0059]. In accordance with an embodiment, said flexible connection portion 4 comprises a longitudinal band 32, which extends along a substantially parallel direction to said longitudinal frame direction X-X, connectable to said longitudinal frame 13. In accordance with an embodiment, said longitudinal band 32 extends along an extension direction of a leg of the user, e.g. from the ankle to the pelvis. In accordance with an embodiment, said longitudinal band 32 connects each band 5, 6, 7, 8 of said flexible connection portion 4. In accordance with an embodiment, said longitudinal band is made of fabric. In accordance with an embodiment, said longitudinal band is connected to said longitudinal support bracket 14.

[0060]. In accordance with an embodiment, the dispenser 2 is slidingly connected to the wearable support element 3 so as to slide linearly with respect to the wearable support element 3 along a longitudinal extension direction of the wearable support element Y-Y and/or of the dispenser X-X for wrapping the load 26 at gradually increasing heights from the ground, keeping the dispenser 2 connected to the wearable support element 3. In accordance with an embodiment, the dispenser 2 is slidingly connected to the wearable support element 3 by said reversible connection means 9, 10 for wrapping the load 26 at gradually increasing heights from the ground up to a maximum height where the dispenser 2 is separate from the wearable support element 3.

[0061]. In accordance with an embodiment, said at least one male element 9 is connected to said longitudinal frame 13 and said at least one female element 10 is connected to said longitudinal bracket 14, or vice versa, for reversibly connecting said dispenser 2 to said wearable support element 3.

[0062]. In accordance with an embodiment, said male element 9 is a protrusion 11 which projects from said longitudinal frame 13 along a transverse direction with respect to said longitudinal frame direction X-X and said female element 10 is a housing 12 obtained in said longitudinal bracket 14 or vice versa. In accordance with an embodiment, said housing 12 is a cavity formed in the body of said longitudinal bracket 14 or of said longitudinal frame 13.

[0063]. In accordance with an embodiment, said longitudinal frame direction X-X and said longitudinal bracket direction Y-Y are parallel. In accordance with an embodiment, said longitudinal frame direction X-X and said longitudinal bracket direction Y-Y are parallel.

[0064]. In accordance with an embodiment, when said protrusion 11 is accommodated in said housing 12, said protrusion 11 cooperates with said housing 12 preventing said longitudinal frame 13 from making movements along transverse directions to said longitudinal bracket direction Y-Y with respect to said longitudinal bracket 14.

[0065]. In accordance with an embodiment, said protrusion 11 is slidingly accommodated in said housing 12 along said bracket direction Y-Y.

[0066]. In accordance with an embodiment, said housing 12 defines a linear guide for said protrusion 11 allowing said dispenser 2 to make a guided linear movement along said bracket direction Y-Y between a stroke-end position and at least one sliding position.

[0067]. In accordance with an embodiment, in said stroke-end position, said protrusion 11 is completely accommodated in said housing 12.

[0068]. In accordance with an embodiment, in said at least one sliding position, said protrusion 11 is partially outside said housing 12 along said bracket direction Y-Y. For example, a sliding position is shown in Figure 5.

In accordance with an embodiment, said longitudinal frame 13 comprises an abutment portion and where said longitudinal bracket 14 comprises a counter-abutment portion, or vice versa.

[0069]. In accordance with an embodiment, when said dispenser 2 is in said stroke-end position, said abutment portion abuts against said counter-portion unloading the weight of said dispenser 2 on said wearable element 3.

[0070]. In accordance with an embodiment, when said dispenser 2 is in said at least one sliding position, said abutment portion is spaced apart from said counter-abutment portion along said longitudinal bracket direction Y-Y.

[0071]. In accordance with an embodiment, said dispenser 3 comprises at least a first handgrip 18 connected to said longitudinal frame 13 at a frame end.

[0072]. In accordance with an embodiment, said at least a first handgrip 18 is configured to be gripped by said user for moving said dispenser 2 between said resting position, said at least one sliding position, and a separation position.

[0073]. In accordance with an embodiment, the first handgrip 18 is rotatably connected to said longitudinal frame 13, so that said handgrip is movable between a longitudinal configuration and a transverse configuration, where in said longitudinal configuration the handgrip is substantially parallel to the longitudinal frame direction X-X, and in said transverse configuration the handgrip is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal frame direction X-X.

[0074]. In accordance with an embodiment, said first handgrip 18 is a handle having an essentially overturned U shape, connected to the longitudinal frame with the two free ends of the U.

[0075]. In accordance with an embodiment, in said separation position, said protrusion 11 is completely outside said housing 12 along said bracket direction Y-Y. [0076]. In accordance with an embodiment, said dispenser 3 comprises at least a second handgrip 19 connected to said longitudinal frame 13 at an opposite frame end with respect to the end to which the first handgrip 18 is connected, where said second handgrip 19 is configured to be gripped by said user.

[0077]. In accordance with an embodiment, said dispenser comprises a second mandrel 16 configured to be rotatably connected to said reel 25 on an opposite side with respect to said first mandrel 15.

[0078]. In accordance with an embodiment, said second mandrel 15 is made as a separate piece from said longitudinal frame 13 and is connected to said first mandrel 16 only through said reel 25.

[0079]. In accordance with an embodiment, said second mandrel 15 is connected to said longitudinal frame 13 by a second mandrel bracket 21 which projects transversely to said longitudinal frame direction X-X from said longitudinal frame 13.

[0080]. In accordance with an embodiment, said first mandrel bracket 20 is spaced apart along said longitudinal frame direction X-X from said second mandrel bracket 21 so as to allow the connection of said reel 25 to said first mandrel 15 and to said second mandrel 16.

[0081]. In accordance with an embodiment, said second mandrel 16 comprises a clutch 17 configured to regulate the rotation of said reel 25.

[0082]. In accordance with an embodiment, said assembly 1 comprises a fixing device 22 configured to fix at least one fixing element 28 to a load support 27 on which the load 26 is positioned. [0083]. In accordance with an embodiment, said fixing device 22 is connected to said dispenser 2.

[0084]. In accordance with an embodiment, said fixing device 22 is operable by pushing said dispenser 2 against said support with said fixing device 22 interposed between said dispenser 2 and said load support 27 thus preventing said user from bending his/her back.

[0085]. In accordance with an embodiment, the fixing device 22 comprises an abutment portion 29 comprising an abutment surface 30 for abutting against said load support 27. In accordance with an embodiment, the fixing device 22 comprises an operating portion 31 connected to said dispenser 2. In accordance with an embodiment, said operating portion 31 is connected on one side to said first mandrel bracket 20 which supports said first mandrel 15. In accordance with an embodiment, said operating portion 31 and said abutment portion 29 are connected to each other and mutually movable between a rest configuration and a thrust configuration. In accordance with an embodiment, said fixing device 22 is operable by pushing said operating portion 31 towards said abutment portion 29 or vice versa. In accordance with an embodiment, said abutment surface 30 is in a distal position with respect to said dispenser 2 in said rest configuration and in a proximal position to said dispenser 2 in said thrust configuration. In accordance with an embodiment, said operating portion 31 and said abutment portion 29 are constantly biased by an elastic element in said rest configuration. In accordance with an embodiment, said abutment portion 31 comprises a cartridge housing for accommodating a cartridge comprising a plurality of said at least one fixing element 28, where said abutment surface 30 comprises at least one opening in communication with said cartridge housing so that, in said thrust configuration, said fixing element 28 is ejected from said housing for constraining a film portion of said film to said load support 27.

[0086]. In accordance with an embodiment, said fixing device 22 is connected to a nail gun or stapler. In accordance with an embodiment, said fixing element 28 is a nail or a U shaped fixing staple.

[0087]. In accordance with an embodiment, the fixing device 22 is connected to said longitudinal frame 1, preferably at a lower end thereof, where said fixing device 22 is configured to fix a film portion of said film to said load support 27 on which the load is arranged so as to constrain the film in a point of the support 27 or of the load before starting the packaging operations, avoiding bending the user's back.

[0088]. In accordance with an embodiment, said fixing device 22 is configured to apply metal staples or nails to fix said film to the load or the load support.

[0089]. By virtue of the fixing device 22, the user may position a portion of film in front of the fixing device 22, in particular at the abutment surface 30, and by moving his/her leg can press the film between the coupling system 22 and the load support or the load, so as to fix the film to the load support or the load without bending his/her back. [0090]. The present invention further comprises a kit comprising an assembly 1 according to the embodiments previously described, and at least one reel 25 configured to be supported by said assembly 1.

[0091]. The present invention further comprises a dispenser 2 for reels of packaging film for a wearable packaging film dispenser assembly 1 according to one of the embodiments previously described. [0092]. Said dispenser 2 is adapted to rotatably support a packaging film reel 25 for wrapping/packaging a load 26. Said dispenser 2 comprises reversible connection means 8, 9 for reversibly connecting said dispenser 2 to a wearable support element 3, where said wearable element 3 is configured to support said dispenser 2 leaving a user's hands free and is configured to connect said dispenser 2 to the user by at least one flexible connection portion 4.

[0093]. The present invention further comprises a wearable support element 3 for a wearable packaging film dispenser assembly 1 according to one of the embodiments previously described.

[0094]. Said wearable element 3 comprises at least one flexible portion 4 adapted to be connected to a user.

[0095]. Said wearable support element 3 is configured to connect a packaging film reel dispenser 2 to a user for supporting said dispenser 2 leaving the hands of said user free. Said dispenser 2 is adapted to rotatably support a packaging film reel 25 for wrapping/packaging a load 26, [0096]. Said wearable support element 3 comprises reversible connection means 8 9 for reversibly connecting said wearable support element 3 to said dispenser 2.

[0097]. The present invention further concerns a method for packaging a load 26 with a packaging film, comprising the steps of: [0098]. -providing an assembly 1 according to any one of the embodiments previously described, where said dispenser 2 supports a reel 25 of said packaging film, where said wearable element 3 is connected to a user,

[0099]. -wrapping a lower portion of said load 26 keeping said dispenser 2 connected to said wearable element 3 thus preventing said user from bending his/her back and supporting said dispenser 2 with his/her hands, turning around said load 26.

[00100]. According to an operating mode, said method comprises the further steps of:

[00101]. - separating said dispenser 2 from said wearable element

3, supporting said dispenser 2 with one's own hands,

[00102]. - wrapping an upper portion of said load 26 with said dispenser (2) supported by the hands of said user, and/or

[00103]. - sliding said dispenser 2 with respect to said wearable support element 3, lifting said dispenser 2 with at least one hand so as to wrap said load in an intermediate portion of said load without completely separating said dispenser 2 from said wearable support element.

[00104]. According to an operating mode, said method comprises the further steps of:

[00105]. - before the step of wrapping a lower portion of said load, constraining a portion of said film to the load or a load support, avoiding bending the user's back, pushing said dispenser against the portion of said film interposed between a fixing device and said load or said load support with the leg of said user.

[00106]. According to an operating mode, the step of constraining a portion of said film to the load or a load support, envisages operating a fixing device 22 of the assembly pushing said dispenser against said load or said load support with said portion of film interposed between said fixing device 22 and said load or said load support.

[00107]. According to an operating mode, said wearable element 3 is connected at least to a leg of said user. According to an operating mode, a rotation axis A with respect to which the reel 25 is rotatable is arranged incident and/or transverse to a ground on which the load 26 rests directly or indirectly. According to an operating mode, the packaging film wound onto the reel 25 is arranged facing the lower portion of said load 26 which is proximal to the ground. According to an operating mode, said wearable element 3 is connected to said user so as to support and arrange the dispenser 2 and the reel 25 along a leg of said user in a position close to the ground on which the load 26 rests directly or indirectly. According to an operating mode, said wearable element 3 is connected to said user so as to support and arrange the dispenser 2 and the reel 25 starting from a proximal height to the ground close to the user's ankle or the user's calf.

[00108]. By virtue of the described assembly, it is possible to prevent a user bending his/her back at every load packaging operation.

[00109]. By virtue of the assembly described, it is possible to keep the dispenser connected to the wearable support element to wrap a lower portion of a load, and it is possible to separate said dispenser from the wearable support element to allow the user to wrap a load in an upper portion.

[00110]. By virtue of the method described, it is possible to package a load reducing stresses on the back of a packaging operator.

LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS wearable dispenser assembly dispenser for packaging film reels wearable support element flexible connection portion first band or belt or shoulder strap second band or first leg strap third band or ankle strap fourth band or second leg strap , lOreversible connection means male element 0 female element 1 protrusion 2 housing/cavity 3 longitudinal frame 4 longitudinal bracket 5 first mandrel 6 second mandrel 7 clutch 8 first handgrip 9 second handgrip 0 first mandrel bracket 1 second mandrel bracket 2 fixing device 5 reel 6 load 7 load support 8 fixing element 9 abutment portion 0 abutment surface 1 operating portion 2 longitudinal band A rotation axis

X-X longitudinal frame direction

Y-Y longitudinal bracket direction