Device for distributing containers into several rows and machine using such a device

Apparatus for distributing articles from a single line moving along a predetermined path into a plurality of adjacent lines, the apparatus comprising:

• an endless conveyor extending above the predetermined path through a distributing region;
• a plurality of gripper heads, each gripper head being actuable between an article engaging position and an article releasing position;
• a plurality of means for mounting respective ones of said gripper heads on said conveyor for movement in longitudinally spaced relation through said distributing region, each of said mounting means providing for transverse movement of the respective gripper head relative to said path;
• means for aligning each gripper head on its respective mounting means with said single line of articles prior to its entry into the distributing region;
• means for actuating each gripper head to the article engaging position upon entry of said gripper head into the distributing region;
• at least one branched track means arranged in the distributing region, said branched track means having a single entry and at least two transversely spaced exits, each of said gripper heads having a guiding means engageable with said branched track means;
• a deflection member pivotally mounted on said track means for diverting gripper heads from said single entry alternately to said at least two exits;
• and
• means for actuating each gripper head to the article releasing position prior to exit of said device from the distributing region.