Patent Application
20240043150
The invention relates to a packaging machine and a method for producing and closing a packaging bag, a connecting device for producing a packaging bag, a closing device for closing a packaging bag, as well as a closed packaging bag.
For many years, an increasing burden on waste management systems and the environment due to packaging waste that is not or only partially recyclable has been seen. Frequently used packaging made of plastics, such as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), is usually easy and inexpensive to produce in a variety of forms. Although some plastics are in principle recyclable, there are various material and procedural problems that stand in the way of large-scale reuse of recyclable plastics. In addition, the plastics are often not disposed of properly, so that they are withheld from the recycling cycle. The same applies to composite packaging, such as beverage cartons, which often consist of cardboard coated with aluminum and/or polyethylene.
In order to reduce packaging waste or increase the recyclability of packaging, environmentally friendly and sustainable companies are increasingly making efforts to switch to alternative, more environmentally friendly and/or fully recyclable packaging materials.
Packaging can be made to meet different needs. In particular, the packaging material can be shaped and/or glued in a variety of ways. Commonly used adhesives for gluing packaging materials are, for example, PUR adhesive and EVA hot melt adhesive. However, the use of adhesives for gluing the packaging material is problematic, since this reduces the recyclability of packaging, for example.
It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a packaging machine and a method for producing and closing a packaging bag, a connecting/joining device for producing a packaging bag, a closing device for closing a packaging bag, as well as a closed packaging bag with increased recyclability.
This object is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are subject of the dependent claims.
One aspect of the invention relates to a packaging machine for producing a packaging bag, in particular a packaging bag for bulk material, and for closing a filled packaging bag, comprising: a feed device for feeding a packaging material; at least one connecting device for producing the packaging bag, which has at least one opening, by connecting/joining at least two layers of the packaging material, the packaging material being conveyed substantially continuously, in particular without acceleration, upon/during connecting/joining; and at least one closing device for closing the at least one opening of the produced and filled packaging bag.
Producing a packaging bag within the meaning of the present application describes in particular creating a preferably hollow, thin-walled object suitable for accommodating one or more other objects, with a packaging bag produced having at least one opening through which one or more objects can be put into and/or removed from or taken out of the packaging bag. The opening of the packaging bag produced can preferably be closed by means of the closing device after the packaging bag has been filled.
The packaging machine mentioned above has a device that is adapted to connect a packaging material that is conveyed at a substantially constant speed. This has the particular advantage that no intermittent conveying, i.e. alternating acceleration and deceleration or stopping, of the packaging material is required. In this way, in particular, the manufacturing process speed can be accelerated. Alternatively and/or in additional, a force on the packaging material caused by repeated acceleration and deceleration can be avoided, so that material fatigue is prevented, or at least reduced, and thus less resistant packaging materials can be used as well.
In the present application, reference is made in particular to packaging bags that are suitable for accommodating bulk material. Bulk material is understood to mean, for example, a substantially powdery, grainy, granular and/or lumpy mixture, which is preferably present in pourable form. Bulk material within the meaning of this application also includes so-called loose goods, i.e. substantially pourable, definable or quantifiable units, such as hardware or assembly accessories (e.g. screws, nuts, nails, washers, felt gliders and the like), handicraft and sewing materials (e.g. beads, (press) buttons, sequins and the like), stationery (e.g. paper clips and the like), toys (e.g. building blocks, game pieces, dice and the like) and, preferably dry, food (e.g. biscuits, cereals/muesli, coffee, rice, pasta, sugar, salt and the like). Alternatively and/or in addition, packaging bags may be suitable for accommodating a single item, such as a connecting cable, a hand tool or the like.
Preferably, the connecting device and/or the closing device is adapted to connect the packaging material mechanically, in particular by embossing, interlocking and/or knurling.
Producing a packaging bag comprises, for example, connecting two or more layers of packaging material. The two or more layers can be arranged at least in some region(s) one on top of the other or opposite one another, for example by folding at least one part or section of a packaging material. Alternatively and/or in addition, two or more pieces or sheets of packaging material, e.g. one or more paper sheets, can laid one on top of the other in an at least partially overlapping manner.
Mechanical connecting/joining describes in particular a connecting of, for example, two layers of a packaging material that is substantially free of material connection and/or an adhesive bond. Mechanical connection preferably takes place by forming a positive/form-fit and/or non-positive/friction-fit connection by exerting pressure on one or more, e.g. two, objects to be connected and/or at least partial reshaping of one or more, e.g. two, objects to be connected.
A preferred form of mechanical connecting comprises embossing and/or interlocking and/or knurling of at least one of the connection partners, i.e. the objects to be connected. Embossing describes in particular a manufacturing process of pressure forming, in which a surface of a workpiece is preferably pressed and/or embossed. Knurling and/or knurl describes a sub-form of embossing, in particular a formation of a circumferential shape deviation of a rotation body. This can be done by milling, pressing and/or embossing, for example.
Advantageously, a shaping tool or embossing tool pressed with pressure on a surface of an object, for example a surface of a packaging material, causes an at least partial or regional deformation of the surface of the object (relief). Particularly in the case of thin or substantially two-dimensional objects, for example a sheet of paper and/or a metal sheet and/or a film, in particular a plastic film, and/or a laminate, a corresponding deformation can be achieved through suitable pressure and design of the shaping tool or embossing tool also on the opposite surface.
In particular, two or more, for example three or four, layers of an object arranged one on top of the other, for example layers of a packaging material, can be embossed or formed together or simultaneously. Thereby, each layer forms a substantially identical or uniform relief, with the reliefs of adjacent or neighboring layers engaging. If the reliefs are formed or embossed in a suitable manner, the two or more layers are substantially connected in a positive/form-fit manner and/or non-positive/friction-fit manner.
A further aspect of the invention relates to a packaging machine for producing a packaging bag, in particular a packaging bag for bulk material, and for closing a filled packaging bag, comprising: a feed device for feeding a packaging material; at least one connecting device for producing a packaging bag, which has at least one opening, by mechanically connecting at least two layers of the packaging material; and at least one closing device for closing the at least one opening of the produced and filled packaging bag.
As described above, the connecting device and/or the closing device is preferably adapted to connect the packaging material by embossing, interlocking and/or knurling.
Advantageously, the packaging material is conveyed substantially continuously, in particular without acceleration, upon/during connecting/joining by the at least one connecting device. In particular, as described above, this prevents or reduces wear and/or damage to the packaging material. Alternatively and/or in addition, a substantially continuous, i.e. substantially uninterrupted, conveying of the packaging material enables an increased process speed or an increased throughput.
More preferably, at least one connecting device is displaced relative to the packaging material during connecting. In particular, a connecting device can be displaced relative to the packaging material and/or relative to any substantially stationary reference point, for example the packaging machine as a whole, while connecting two or more layers of packaging material. For example, a connecting device can be moved from one end of the packaging material to the other end thereof in order to connect the packaging material over the appropriate length or distance, or at least part of it. This is particularly advantageous if the connecting takes place in a process step in which at least part of the packaging material remains at least temporarily substantially stationary.
As described with regard to the connecting device, the at least one closing device can be displaced with respect to the packaging material and/or the packaging bag during closing. Alternatively and/or in addition, the packaging material is conveyed substantially continuously, in particular without acceleration, during closing by the at least one closing device. More preferably, the connecting device and/or the closing device is adapted to connect at least two, in particular three or four, layers of the packaging material.
Particularly preferably, the connecting device and/or the closing device is adapted to connect the packaging material at least partially substantially without a material connection.
A material connection and/or an adhesive bond is characterized in particular by the connection of connection partners, e.g. two or more layers of packaging material, by atomic and/or molecular forces. A material connection is achieved, for example, by soldering, welding, gluing and/or vulcanizing. According to aspects of the present invention, packaging material is connected to produce a packaging bag and/or to close a packaging bag, preferably substantially without a material connection. In particular in the case of packaging material comprising fibrous material, such as paper and/or cardboard, it is advantageous to dispense with adhesive when connecting the packaging material, in order to obtain increased recyclability of the packaging.
More preferably, the connecting device and/or the closing device is adapted to connect the packaging material substantially in a positive/form-fit manner and/or non-positive/friction-fit manner.
A positive/form-fit connection is created in particular by an at least partial engagement of at least two connection partners, so that loosening of the connection partners is prevented or at least made more difficult in at least one direction. Examples of a positive/form-fit connection are: tongue and groove connection, zipper, Velcro, toothing and the like. Optionally, a connecting element, such as a rivet, screw and/or cotter pin, can be arranged with a substantially precise fit in corresponding recesses of two connection partners, so that a separation of the connection partners is prevented or at least made significantly more difficult in at least one direction.
A non-positive/friction-fit connection is characterized in particular by a normal force on the surfaces to be connected to one another, so that mutual displacement is prevented or at least made significantly more difficult. An example of a non-positive/friction-fit connection is clamping two objects or weighing one object down.
More preferably, the packaging machine has at least one connecting device that is adapted to create one or more connecting seams/connecting joints substantially parallel to a conveying direction of the packaging material, substantially without a material connection; and a second connecting device and/or a closing device, which are adapted to create one or more connecting seams at least partially or completely by means of a material connection or substantially without a material connection, substantially orthogonal to a conveying direction of the packaging material.
This configuration is particularly advantageous for a packaging machine that operates according to a so-called vertical form, fill and seal machine (VFFS—vertical form fill and seal machine), as shown in
This configuration is particularly advantageous for a packaging machine that operates in accordance with a so-called horizontal form fill and seal machine (HFFS), as shown in
Alternatively and/or in addition, the connecting device and/or the closing device is adapted to create a connecting seam that closes an opening of a packaging container, with a material connection, for example by means of cold glue. Such a connecting device comprises, for example, two elements that are pressed against one another with pressure in order to materially connect two or more layers of packaging material located between the elements. Alternatively or in addition, the at least partial or complete material connection can also be provided by means of hot glue and/or by melting a solid adhesive component and/or by means of multi-component adhesive and/or by means of another conventional adhesion method. Here, preferably means are provided in order to push and/or press and/or heat the layers of the packaging container against one another in order to melt one or more adhesive components, i.e. at least to soften or liquefy them. In particular in the case of a packaging bag having two or more, for example three, connecting seams that are substantially free of material connection, it is advantageous to close an opening of the packaging bag substantially in a materially connected manner.
Particularly preferably, a connecting device and/or a closing device is adapted to connect two or more, in particular three or four, layers of packaging material by means of a positive/form-fit and/or non-positive/friction-fit connection.
The packaging machine according to one aspect of the invention is particularly suitable for producing and sealing a packaging bag made from a packaging material consisting at least partially of fibrous material, in particular cellulose, wood pulp and/or paper, in particular waste paper material. Packaging made of paper and/or cardboard is generally highly recyclable because it is made from wood, a renewable raw material.
The packaging material preferably has a fiber length of between about 1 mm and about 5 mm, in particular about 2.5 mm. The thickness of the fibers is preferably between about 0.005 mm and about 0.15 mm, in particular between about 0.01 mm and about 0.08 mm.
Preferably, the packaging material 22 from which a packaging bag 20 is made has a strength or thickness of between about 0.05 mm and about 1 mm, more preferably between about 0.1 mm and about 0.3 mm. More preferably, the packaging material 22 has a grammage between about 10 g/m2 and about 150 g/m2, more preferably between about 60 g/m2 and about 110 g/m2.
Particularly preferably, the packaging material 22, which can be a paper, in particular a packaging paper, comprises one or more of the following parameters and/or properties:
Alternatively and/or in addition, the packaging material preferably comprises one or more of the following properties:
Likewise, two or more layers of different packaging materials can be connected to one another form a packaging bag. In particular, a layer with a relatively low grammage, e.g. 60 g/m2, and a layer with a relatively high grammage, e.g. 70 g/m2, when connected to one another, can constitute a packaging bag with advantageous properties, in particular with regard to weight and/or durability.
Further preferably, the packaging machine comprises at least one shaping or folding device for shaping and/or folding the packaging material. A shaping or folding device is adapted, for example, to shape at least one portion and/or part of a packaging material such that two or more, in particular three or four, layers of the packaging material are superimposed.
Advantageously, the at least one shaping or folding device is adapted to shape the packaging material, in particular to fold it at least once, so that at least two layers of the packaging material overlap at least partially. Particularly preferably, a web of packaging material, for example, is shaped and/or folded or pleated such that a web with packaging material that is doubled at least in some region(s) is produced, which is then fed to a connecting device and/or a closing device. The resulting fold in the packaging material can serve as an edge or finish on one side of the packaging bag.
More preferably, the packaging machine comprises at least one filling device for filling the packaging bag, in particular for filling the packaging bag with bulk material. The filling device is advantageously arranged downstream the at least one connecting device in the packaging machine.
Preferably, the at least one filling device is arranged between the at least one connecting device and the at least one closing device. For example, the packaging bag that has been produced and is open or not yet closed is transported or conveyed to the filling device. The filling device may have one or more of the following devices: an opening device for opening the packaging bag opening; a pouch forming device for forming a pouch or cavity in the packaging bag; an introduction device for introducing or pouring or pushing one or more objects, in particular bulk material, into the packaging bag.
More preferably, the packaging machine comprises one or more devices for accommodating and transporting one or more packaging bags produced, in particular a rotary machine.
Such a device can in particular be configured and arranged in or on the packaging machine in such a manner as to transport or convey one or more packaging bags to a filling device and/or a closing device.
More preferably, the packaging machine comprises at least one separating device for separating part of the packaging material and/or at least one packaging bag, the at least one separating device preferably being arranged: between the feed device and the at least one first connecting device; or between the at least one connecting device and the at least one filling device; or between the at least one filling device and the at least one closing device.
A separating device has, for example, a severing tool for severing or dividing or isolating at least part of a packaging material and/or a packaging bag. Preferably, the severing tool comprises a cutting edge or blade for cutting the packaging material. Alternatively and/or in addition, the separating device can have one or more perforation tools for perforating the packaging material and/or a detaching device for severing or detaching part of the packaging material or a packaging bag, in particular along a perforation line produced in the packaging material.
In particular, the separating device can be adapted to separate and/or cut a packaging material substantially continuously, i.e. substantially without interruption. This can be achieved, for example, by means of a substantially stationary cutting edge and/or a blade arranged on a rotating roller, the cutting edge or the blade being in substantially continuous contact with the packaging material. Alternatively, the separating device can be adapted to separate and/or cut the packaging material intermittently, i.e. in a temporarily suspended manner. This can be achieved, for example, by displaceable blades that are displaced relative to the packaging material and come into contact with it temporarily.
Alternatively and/or in addition, a separating device can be arranged in the packaging machine upstream of the shaping or folding device for separating or isolating part of the packaging material. This is particularly advantageous if two or more, in particular three or four, individual parts or pieces of the packaging material are placed at least partially on top of one another and connected to one another. Alternatively and/or in addition, a separating device can be arranged downstream of the at least one connecting device in order to separate one or more packaging bags that have been produced or to separate or isolate them from the packaging material fed.
Advantageously, the at least one connecting device and/or the at least one closing device is adapted to create a connecting seam substantially orthogonal to or in the transverse direction of a conveying direction of the packaging material. Alternatively and/or in addition, the at least one connecting device and/or the at least one closing device is adapted to create a connecting seam substantially parallel or in the longitudinal direction of a conveying direction of the packaging material.
A connecting seam describes in particular a relief produced by reshaping or embossing, which preferably has a substantially elongated shape. A connecting seam also describes an area in which two or more layers of a packaging material are connected, in particular by means of a material connection and/or substantially without a material connection.
A connecting device and/or a closing device is particularly advantageous in the case of a substantially continuous supply of a packaging material from a roll or the like to a connecting device. For example, in order to produce individual packaging bags from a band of packaging material, two or more, in particular three or four, layers of packaging material can be connected, in particular by creating one or more, in particular two, three or four, connecting seams. Connecting seams can, for example, be designed as a transverse seam, i.e. substantially orthogonal to or in the transverse direction of a conveying direction of the packaging material, or as a longitudinal seam, i.e. substantially parallel to or in the longitudinal direction of a conveying direction of the packaging material. Alternatively and/or in addition, a connecting seam can be formed obliquely, in particular diagonally, to a conveying direction of the packaging material and/or have non-rectilinear portions.
A further aspect of the invention relates to a connecting device and/or a closing device for connecting at least two layers of a packaging material for producing a packaging bag, in particular a packaging bag for bulk material, comprising: at least one embossing tool with an embossing structure; wherein the connecting device or the closing device is adapted to produce and/or close a packaging bag by connecting, in particular mechanical embossing, interlocking and/or knurling, of at least two layers of the packaging material; and wherein the packaging material consists at least partially of fibrous material, in particular cellulose, wood pulp and/or paper, in particular waste paper material.
A connecting device and/or a closing device as described above and/or below are particularly suitable for use in a packaging machine according to one aspect of the invention. Alternatively and/or in addition, a connecting device and/or closing device described above and/or below can be arranged in a packaging machine according to one aspect of the invention and/or be part of the packaging machine. A connecting device within the meaning of this invention is preferably adapted to produce a packaging bag, in particular by creating one or more connecting seams in a packaging material. A closing device is preferably adapted to close a packaging bag that has been produced in particular after it has been filled. In particular, the closing device is preferably adapted to close a last opening of the packaging bag, through which one or more objects were preferably filled into the packaging bag.
Mechanical connecting describes in particular connecting for example two layers of a packaging material that is substantially free of a material connection. Mechanical connecting preferably takes place by forming a positive/form-fit and/or non-positive/friction-fit connection by exerting pressure on one or more, e.g. two, objects to be connected and/or at least partial reshaping of one or more, e.g. two, objects to be connected.
A preferred form of mechanical connecting includes embossing or interlocking or knurling of at least one of the connection partners, i.e. the objects to be connected.
The connecting device and/or the closing device can in particular have one or more of the features listed below:
Advantageously, the connecting device and/or the closing device is adapted to connect the packaging material while the packaging material is being conveyed substantially continuously, in particular without acceleration.
The connecting device and/or a closing device is/are preferably adapted to connect a packaging material that is conveyed at a substantially constant speed. This has the particular advantage that no intermittent conveying, i.e. alternating acceleration and deceleration or stopping, of the packaging material is required. In this way, for example, the course of the manufacturing process can be accelerated. Alternatively and/or in addition, a force on the packaging material caused by repeated acceleration and deceleration can be avoided, so that material fatigue is prevented, or at least reduced, and thus less resistant packaging materials can be used.
According to a preferred embodiment, the embossing tool comprises at least one rotatable roller with an embossing structure. This is particularly advantageous for creating a connecting seam by a connecting device or a closing device when the packaging material is conveyed at a substantially constant speed in or through the connecting device or closing device. A rotatable roller offers the advantage that it preferably rotates such that the embossing tool has a substantially similar speed and/or direction of movement as the packaging material being conveyed when it comes into contact with the packaging material. Such an at least approximate synchronicity between the embossing tool and the packaging method enables, in particular, a material-friendly creation of a connecting seam, since no, but at least reduced, forces occur on the packaging material in and/or against its conveying direction.
A connecting seam describes in particular a relief produced by reshaping or embossing, which preferably has a substantially elongated shape.
More preferably, the at least one rotatable roller and/or a pair of rollers is mounted in a substantially stationary manner. Alternatively, the embossing tool and/or the at least one rotatable roller and/or the pair of rollers can be displaced relative to the packaging material, in particular each can be displaced in an oscillating manner. It can be advantageous that the at least one rotatable roller be designed to be displaceable in order to bring it into contact with the packaging material or to interrupt contact with the packaging material. This is particularly advantageous in order to achieve at least about synchronicity between the embossing tool and the packaging material.
The connecting device and/or the closing device is particularly preferably adapted to connect the packaging material substantially without a material connection.
A material connection is characterized in particular by the connection of connection partners, e.g. two or more layers of packaging material, by atomic and/or molecular forces. A material connection is achieved, for example, by soldering, welding, gluing and/or vulcanizing. According to aspects of the present invention, packaging material is connected to produce a packaging bag and/or to close a packaging bag, preferably substantially without a material connection. In particular in the case of packaging material comprising fibrous material, such as paper and/or cardboard, it is advantageous to dispense with adhesive when connecting the packaging material, in order to obtain increased recyclability of the packaging.
Preferably, the connecting device and/or the closing device is adapted to connect the packaging material substantially in a positive/form-fit manner and/or non-positive/friction-fit manner.
A positive/form-fit connection is created in particular by an at least partial engagement of at least two connection partners, so that loosening of the connection partners is prevented or at least made more difficult. Examples of a positive connection are: tongue and groove connection, zipper, Velcro, toothing and the like. Optionally, a connecting element, such as a rivet, screw and/or cotter pin, can be arranged with a substantially precise fit in corresponding recesses of two connection partners, so that a separation of the connection partners is prevented or at least made significantly more difficult in at least one direction.
A non-positive/friction-fit connection is characterized in particular by a normal force on the surfaces to be connected to one another, so that mutual displacement is prevented or at least made significantly more difficult. An example of a non-positive/friction-fit connection is clamping two objects or weighing one object down.
Alternatively and/or in addition, the connecting device and/or the closing device is adapted to create a connecting seam with a material connection, for example using cold glue, two-component (2K) adhesive, hot-melt adhesive, dispersion adhesive, contact adhesive, polymerization adhesive, pressure-sensitive adhesive or a similar adhesive, in particular with an adhesive that can be cold bonded, i.e. substantially without heating.
Advantageously, the connecting device and/or the closing device is adapted to create a connecting seam substantially orthogonal to or in the transverse direction of a conveying direction of the packaging material. Alternatively and/or in addition, the at least one connecting device and/or the at least one closing device is adapted to create a connecting seam substantially parallel to or in the longitudinal direction of a conveying direction of the packaging material.
Preferably, the embossing structure of the embossing tool has a plurality of elevations and/or depressions. Here, one or more parameters of the embossed structure, such as distance, thickness, length and/or height or depth of the elevations or depressions, can be modified or selected according to different requirements. In particular, the properties of the embossed structure can be appropriately adapted or matched to different packaging materials and/or the desired resistance of a connecting seam. Some exemplary configurations of particularly advantageous embossed structures are shown in the figures and will be described below.
Preferably, the connecting device and/or the closing device comprises a second embossing tool, more preferably a second rotatable roller with an embossing structure. Preferably, the first roller and the second roller are arranged such that at least part of the packaging material is passed between the first roller and the second roller.
Advantageously, the connecting device and/or the closing device has at least one drive unit, for example a motor, for rotating at least one rotatable roller. This is particularly advantageous for achieving at least approximate synchronicity of the embossing tool and the packaging material being conveyed.
Particularly preferably, the embossed structure of the first roller and the embossed structure of the second roller have substantially complementary or opposite or reciprocal patterns. A particularly advantageous connecting seam can be produced with such a pattern. In particular, a material-damaging stress on the packaging material can be reduced and/or the resistance or durability of the connecting seam can be increased. For example, the embossed structure of the first roller has a depression at a specific point, with the embossed structure of the second roller having an elevation at a corresponding point, in particular an at least temporarily opposite point. The thickness, length and/or height or depth of the depression and elevation are preferably designed to be substantially complementary.
Further preferably, the first roller and the second roller are arranged such that an elevation of the embossed structure of the first roller at least temporarily opposes a depression of the embossed structure of the second roller and/or is at least partially accommodated by it.
Alternatively and/or in addition, the connecting device and/or the closing device is designed such that one roller of a pair of rollers has a plurality of, for example two, embossing structures in order to create a corresponding number of connecting seams in one process step. In particular, the pair of rollers is designed to create two adjacent and/or side-by-side connecting seams in the packaging material, with the connecting seams being assigned to different packaging bags.
Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method for producing a packaging bag comprising at least one opening, in particular a packaging bag for bulk material, and for closing an opening of a filled packaging bag, comprising the steps of: shaping and/or folding a packaging material, in particular folding or pleating the packaging material; producing the packaging bag by creating at least two connecting seams by respective connection, in particular mechanical embossing, interlocking and/or knurding, of at least two layers of the packaging material; and closing an opening of the produced and filled packaging bag; wherein the packaging material consists at least partially of fibrous material, in particular cellulose, wood pulp and/or paper, in particular waste paper material.
Preferably, a fed packaging material is folded at least once or shaped such that at least two portions of the packaging material lie opposite and/or abutting one another. Alternatively and/or in addition, two layers of the packaging material can be placed one on top of the other in an at least partially overlapping manner.
Further preferably, to produce the packaging bag, two or more, in particular three or four, connecting seams are created preferably by substantially non-material, in particular positive/form-fit and/or non-positive/friction-fit mechanical connecting.
Mechanical connecting describes in particular connecting for example two layers of a packaging material substantially without a material connection. Mechanical connecting preferably takes place by forming a positive/form-fit and/or non-positive/friction-fit connection by exerting pressure on one or more, e.g. two, objects to be connected and/or at least partial reshaping of one or more, e.g. two, objects to be connected.
A preferred form of mechanical connecting includes embossing or interlocking or knurling of at least one of the connection partners, i.e. the objects to be connected. Advantageously, at least two connecting seams are arranged substantially orthogonal to one another. Alternatively and/or in addition, at least two connecting seams are arranged substantially parallel to one another.
The method further preferably comprises one or more of the following steps: feeding the packaging material; and/or creating at least one connecting seam substantially without a material connection; and/or closing the packaging bag by creating at least one connecting seam arranged in parallel and/or orthogonal to at least one connecting seam for producing the packaging bag; and/or substantially continuous, in particular acceleration-free, conveying of the packaging material while creating at least one connecting seam; and/or filling the packaging bag, in particular filling the packaging bag with bulk material; and/or separating part of the packaging material; and/or creating at least one connecting seam substantially orthogonal to a conveying direction of the packaging material; and/or creating at least one connecting seam substantially parallel to a conveying direction of the packaging material.
A connecting seam describes in particular a relief produced, for example, by reshaping or embossing on a surface of an object, for example a packaging material, which preferably has a substantially elongated shape. A connecting seam can also describe an area of at least two connected layers of packaging material by means of a material connection, in particular by means of cold glue, two-component (2K) adhesive, hot-melt adhesive, dispersion adhesive, contact adhesive, polymerization adhesive, pressure-sensitive adhesive or a similar adhesive, in particular with an adhesive that can be cold-bonded, i.e. substantially without heating.
Exemplary methods for producing and sealing a packaging bag are shown and described in the figures.
A further aspect of the present invention relates to a closed packaging bag, in particular a packaging bag filled with bulk material, comprising: at least two connecting seams arranged substantially parallel at least in some region(s), which connect at least two layers of a packaging material of the packaging bag; and at least one connecting seam, at least in some region(s) substantially orthogonal to the at least two connecting seams arranged in parallel; wherein the packaging material consists at least partially of fibrous material, in particular cellulose, wood pulp and/or paper, in particular waste paper material.
The packaging bag can in particular be produced and/or closed using the method described. A packaging bag within the meaning of the present application describes in particular a hollow, thin-walled object that is suitable for accommodating one or more other objects.
Preferably, the at least one, in particular two, three or four connecting seams connect the packaging material of the packaging bag substantially without a material connection, in particular without adhesive. More preferably, the at least one, in particular two, three or four, connecting seams connect the packaging material of the packaging bag substantially by means of a positive/form-fit and/or non-positive/friction-fit connection. Alternatively and/or in addition, the packaging bag has at least one, in particular two, connecting seams that connect the packaging material of the packaging bag substantially in a materially connected manner. A material connection can be achieved in particular by means of cold glue, (cold) glue, hot-seal glue and/or similar glues.
The packaging bag advantageously has one or more, for example two, fold lines, preferably orthogonal to at least two connecting seams arranged in parallel. Such a fold line can in particular form an edge or a closing device along one side of the packaging bag.
The packaging bag preferably has two pairs of connecting seams arranged substantially in parallel, the pairs of connecting seams being arranged substantially orthogonal to one another. A packaging bag with corresponding connecting seams is particularly advantageous if the packaging bag is to be designed substantially identically at the edges and/or is to have substantially identical properties, such as tear resistance.
Advantageously, a packaging bag has: at least one first connecting seam that connects the packaging material substantially without a material connection: a second connecting seam that connects the packaging material by means of a material connection, the first connecting seam and the second connecting seam being arranged substantially orthogonal to one another; wherein the packaging bag preferably has a third connecting seam that connects the packaging material by means of a material connection, is arranged substantially parallel to the second connecting seam and, more preferably, closes an opening of the packaging bag produced. Such a packaging bag is particularly advantageous in a VFFS process (cf. e.g.
A further advantageous embodiment of a packaging bag has: at least one first connecting seam that connects the packaging material substantially without a material connection; a second connecting seam that connects the packaging material substantially without a material connection, the first connecting seam and the second connecting seam being arranged substantially parallel to one another; wherein the packaging bag preferably has a third connecting seam that connects the packaging material substantially in a materially connected manner and is arranged substantially orthogonal to the first connecting seam and the second connecting seam. Such a packaging bag is particularly advantageous in an HFFS process (cf. e.g.
Depending on the filling, intended use and/or other requirements, they can be configured differently. Examples of packaging bags are shown in the figures and will be described below.
In the following, individual embodiments for solving the object will be described by way of example with reference to the figures. Some of the individual embodiments described have features that are not absolutely necessary to implement the claimed subject matter, but which provide desired properties in certain applications. Thus, embodiments not having all the features of the embodiments described below shall also be regarded as disclosed and falling under the technical teaching described.
Furthermore, in order to avoid unnecessary repetition, certain features will only be mentioned in relation to individual embodiments described below. It is pointed out that the individual embodiments should therefore not only be considered individually, but also be viewed as a whole. Based on this combined view, the skilled person will recognize that individual embodiments can also be modified by incorporating individual or multiple features of other embodiments. It is pointed out that a systematic combination of the individual embodiments with individual or multiple features described in relation to other embodiments can be desirable and useful and should therefore be taken into account and also be regarded as covered by the description.
In particular two types of packaging machines are common in the packaging industry: horizontal form fill and seal machine (HFFS) and vertical form fill and seal machine (VFFS). These packaging machines or packaging methods differ in particular with regard to an essential conveying direction of the packaging material or the packaging bag. In an HFFS process, the packaging material and/or packaging bags are conveyed in a substantially horizontal direction. In a VFFS process, the packaging material and/or the packaging bags are conveyed in a substantially vertical direction. The packaging machine, connecting device, closing device and method according to aspects of the present invention are particularly suitable for HFFS and/or VFFS applications. The figures show exemplary embodiments of one or more aspects of the invention, with at least some of the examples shown being suitable for both HFFS and VFFS applications. However, the exemplary embodiments are not limited to the HFFS and VFFS methods mentioned.
As an alternative to the example shown, the packaging material 22 can be stored in the form of individual pieces or sheets. In such an example, the feed device 2 and/or the shaping or folding device 4 are preferably configured such that two or more, in particular three or four, pieces or sheets of the packaging material 22 are arranged and/or conveyed in a manner at least partially overlapping or lying one on top of the other.
The packaging machine 1 shown in
Preferably, the one or more connecting devices 30 are arranged upstream of a shaping or folding device 4 in the conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22. Alternatively and/or in addition, at least one connecting device 30 can be arranged upstream of a shaping or folding device 4. A connecting device 30 can in particular be adapted to create a connecting seam 24 substantially orthogonal or transversely to the conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22. Alternatively and/or in addition, a connecting device can be adapted to create a connecting seam 24 substantially parallel or longitudinal to the conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22.
In the exemplary packaging machine 1 shown in
The packaging machine 1 of
According to an alternative embodiment, a packaging machine 1 can have a plurality, e.g. two, separating devices 6, which are preferably not arranged directly adjacent in the packaging machine. For example, a first separating device 6 can separate the packaging material 20 such that the separated portion has two or more connected packaging bags 20. The separated portion can be conveyed to devices for filling and/or sealing and, optionally, then be fed to a second separating device 6, which separates at least one packaging bag 20 from the previously separated portion. A separating device 6 can alternatively and/or in addition be arranged upstream of a shaping or folding device 4.
In the present exemplary embodiment, the packaging machine 1 comprises a rotary machine 10 for accommodating and/or transporting or conveying one or more packaging bags 20 and/or individual portions of the packaging material 22. The rotary machine 10 is preferably adapted to feed one or more packaging bags 20 and/or or separated individual portions of the packaging material 22 substantially continuously or intermittently to one or more stations or devices of the packaging machine 1, in particular a filling device 8 of the packaging machine 1 for filling the packaging bag 20, preferably with bulk material. Advantageously, the filling device 8 has an opening device and/or or pouch forming device 12 for opening the opening of the packaging bag 20 and/or forming the packaging bag 20, in particular by forming a substantially bulbous pouch—in preparation for the filling of the packaging bag 20. One or more, e.g. two, three or four, inlet devices 14 are adapted to fill the packaging bag 20 with one or more objects, in particular with bulk material.
As shown in
Moreover, the packaging machine 1 has one or more, in particular 2 or 3, closing devices 40 for closing one or more, e.g. two, packaging bags 20. In the present example, two filled packaging bags 20 are fed to a closing device 40 and closed by it. A closing device 40 is preferably adapted to close the opening of a packaging bag 20, in particular by connecting a packaging material 22 forming the opening. Preferably, the closing device 40 comprises one or more embossing tools 32 for creating at least one connecting seam 24 for closing the opening of the packaging bag 20. The closing device 30 can be designed to be substantially stationary or displaceable relative to the one or more packaging bags. Particularly advantageous is a closing device 40 that can be displaced substantially parallel to or along the side of the packaging bag 20 that comprises the opening. Exemplary embodiments of a closing device are shown in
The packaging bag 20 that has been produced, filled and closed is then fed out of the packaging machine 1. Furthermore, the packaging machine 1 optionally has one or more control devices 18 for controlling or inspecting in particular the packaging material 22 and/or a connecting seam 24. Conveying or feeding of the packaging material 22 and/or the packaging bag 20 can in particular take place substantially intermittently or continuously. In particular, conveying in the individual stations or sections of the packaging machine 1 can vary. As shown in the example in
Mechanical connecting describes in particular connecting for example two layers of a packaging material that is substantially free of material connection. Mechanical connecting preferably takes place by forming a positive/form-fit and/or non-positive/friction-fit connection by exerting pressure on one or more, e.g. two, objects to be connected and/or at least partial reshaping of one or more, e.g. two, objects to be connected.
A preferred form of mechanical connecting includes embossing and/or interlocking and/or knurling of at least one of the connection partners, i.e. the objects to be connected.
The connecting device 30 according to a preferred embodiment comprises at least one embossing tool 32 with one or more, e.g. two, embossing structures 34. The embossing tool 32 is designed as a rotatable roller 36, for example, which has an embossing structure 34 on its outer circumference. The roller 36 is preferably arranged such that its axis of rotation is aligned substantially orthogonal or perpendicularly to a conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22 and substantially parallel to a surface of the packaging material 22. The connecting device 30 is preferably designed such that the packaging material 22 can be guided or passed at least partially through it.
In the preferred embodiment of the connecting device 30 shown, the rotatable roller 36 in particular can be rotated such that the embossing structure 34 present on the outer circumference of the roller 36 has substantially, but at least about, the same speed as the conveyed packaging material 22 when it comes into contact therewith. Such an at least approximate synchronicity between the embossed structure 34 and the packaging material 22 can in particular create an improved connecting seam 24 and/or prevent or at least reduce damage to the packaging material 22.
In order to achieve or improve at least approximate synchronicity, a sensor, for example a rotary encoder, can preferably be provided to detect the speed of the packaging material 22 and to control and/or regulate the rotational speed of the roller 36 accordingly.
The connecting device 30 in
The connecting device 30 of
Optionally, the embossing tool 32 can be designed or arranged such that at least part of the packaging material 22 passes through the connecting device 30 in a substantially unchanged form, in particular without being connected or having a connecting seam 24. In the example of
In further configurations, at least part of the connecting device 30 can alternatively and/or in addition be displaceable with respect to the packaging material 22. For example, the embossing tool 32 can be oscillatingly displaced in order to be temporarily brought into contact with the packaging material 22. Such a configuration enables improved synchronicity between the embossing structure 34 and the conveyed packaging material 22.
It should be noted that at least some of the described features of the connecting device 30 shown can also be comprised by a closing device 40 for closing a packaging bag 20.
The rollers 36 of the connecting device 30 are in particular arranged or positioned such that a band and/or a sheet of packaging material 22 can be guided or passed through between the rollers 36. Preferably, the length of the rollers 36 is greater than the width of the packaging material 22. In alternative embodiments, only a portion of the width of the packaging material 22 may pass between the rollers 36. In the example shown, the packaging material is doubled, i.e. it was folded, so that the band of packaging material 22 is at least partially formed in two layers. The band of packaging material 22 has a fold or pleat 26.
Preferably, the connecting device 30 also comprises at least one drive unit 38, in particular a motor, for driving or rotating at least one roller 36. The example shown advantageously has a transmission that connects the motor 38 to the two rollers 36 and makes them synchronous or drives them similarly. This is particularly advantageous since in this way a deviation in the rotation of the rollers 36 can be prevented, or at least reduced.
More preferably, the connecting device 30 is adapted to press the two rollers 36, which are substantially stationary during operation, against one another. For example, by introducing a force onto one roller 36 in the direction of the other roller 36, a pressure can be formed. A packaging material passed between the rollers is exposed to this pressure at least in some region(s) and/or temporarily.
When a connecting seam is created, a pressure of between about 10 bar and about 200 bar, more preferably between about 40 bar and 100 bar, is preferably applied. A contact pressure of between about 10 kN and about 50 kN, more preferably between about 17.5 kN and about 32 kN, is preferably generated.
The connecting device 30 of the illustrated embodiment is adapted to connect a packaging material 22 that is transported in particular substantially without acceleration or at a constant speed. In this embodiment, it is particularly advantageous to rotate the rollers 36 such that the embossed structure 34 and the packaging material 22 have a substantially, but at least almost, identical speed when they touch or come into contact with one another. In this way, tearing and/or damage to the packaging material 22 can advantageously be prevented, or at least reduced.
As shown in
Advantageously, the embossing structures 34 of the two rollers 36 have substantially complementary or opposite or reciprocal patterns. For example, the embossed structure 34 of one roller 36 consists of a pattern with the sequence: depression, elevation, depression, elevation, depression. Preferably, the embossing structure 34 of the other roller 36 consists of a complementary pattern with the sequence: elevation, depression, elevation, depression, elevation. More preferably, the two rollers 36 are arranged and aligned such that, when the rollers 36 or the embossed structures 36 are opposite or come into contact, the position of a depression in one embossed structure 34 substantially corresponds to the position of an elevation in the other embossed structure 34 and vice versa. In other words, the embossed structures 34 of the rollers are preferably designed such that they engage at least temporarily—similar to coupled gears. In this way, an advantageous connecting seam 24 that is particularly gentle on the material and/or a connecting seam 24 with increased durability or strength can be created in a connection material 22.
In the present exemplary embodiment, the connecting device is arranged in a substantially stationary manner. In an alternative embodiment, the connecting device 30 can be displaceable, in particular in relation to the packaging material 22 and, preferably, parallel to the conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22.
One or more rollers of an exemplary connecting device as shown in
In order to create connecting seams 24 as shown in
The connecting device 30 and/or closing device 40 preferably has two embossing tools 32, in particular in the form of two rollers 36. The rollers 36 each have an embossing structure 34, preferably in a region close to one end of the roller in the axial direction. The embossing structure 34 is provided along at least part of the circumference of the roller. The embossed structure is preferably provided across the entire circumference of the roller.
The connecting device 30 and/or closing device 40 shown is adapted in particular to create a connecting seam 24 in a region of a packaging material 22 near the edge.
To create a connecting seam 24, the connecting device 30 or closing device 40 can be displaced, for example, along an edge or a rim of a substantially stationary packaging material 22. Such a configuration is particularly advantageous for closing a filled packaging bag 20, since a corresponding displacement of the closing device 40 can be implemented in a simple manner when the packaging bag 20 is substantially stationary. With such an embodiment, coordinated rotation of the rollers 36 is particularly advantageous. The rollers 36 are preferably driven or rotated such that the speed of the region of the embossing structure 34 that is in contact with the packaging material 22 has a substantially identical speed as the displacement of the connecting device 30 or closing device 40, but in substantially the opposite direction, i.e. opposite to the displacement direction of the connecting device 30 or closing device 40. In this way, an advantageous connecting seam 24 that is particularly gentle on the material and/or a connecting seam 24 with increased durability or strength can be produced in a connection material 22.
As an alternative to this, at least a portion of a packaging material 22 and/or a preferably filled packaging bag 20 can be displaced relative to the connecting device 30 or closing device 40, as shown in
Alternatively, the connecting device 30 and/or the closing device 40 can comprise a roller 36 with an embossed structure 34 and an adjacent plate, with the packaging material 22 being passed between the roller and the plate. As an alternative to this, the connecting device 30 and/or closing device 40 can be moved or driven over the packaging material 22.
Alternatively and/or in addition, the connecting device 30 and/or the closing device 40 is adapted to connect three layers of a packaging material 22, with the third layer preferably being formed by shaping, in particular folding and/or bending, the first or the second layer of the packaging material.
Similar to what is described in
Alternatively and/or in addition, a connecting device 30 and/or closing device 40, as shown in
This preferred configuration of a connecting seam 24 has elevations and depressions arranged substantially in parallel, the elevations and depressions being aligned substantially orthogonal or perpendicularly to a direction in which the connecting seam 24 extends (from left to right). The connecting seam 24 is preferably created without a material connection by mechanical connecting, in particular embossing, interlocking and/or knurling, for example with a connecting device 30 and/or a closing device 40 according to one aspect of the invention.
Alternatively and/or in addition, a connecting seam 24 can be formed substantially uniformly, i.e. in a continuously repeating pattern, and/or varying. Alternatively and/or in addition, a connecting seam 24 can have a relief with elevations and/or depressions, which are at least partially aligned in the longitudinal direction or parallel to a substantial extension direction of the connecting seam 24. Alternatively and/or in addition, a connecting seam can comprise elevations and/or depressions of any shape, in particular substantially circular, wavy, jagged and/or curved.
Particularly preferably, the elevations and/or depressions are arranged substantially orthogonal or perpendicularly to an essential alignment or orientation of fibers of the packaging material. In particular, an angle between the elevations and/or depressions and a substantial orientation of the fibers is preferably greater than about 20°, more preferably greater than about 45°. In this way, an advantageous durability or resistance of a connecting seam 24 can be achieved since fibers of two or more elevations and/or depressions are connected.
The connecting seams 24 are preferably produced without a material connection by mechanical connecting, in particular embossing, interlocking and/or knurling, for example with a connecting device 30 and/or a closing device 40 according to one aspect of the invention.
In the exemplary packaging bag 20 shown, it is particularly advantageous for the fibers of the packaging material 22 to be aligned and/or oriented neither in parallel nor perpendicularly, preferably at an angle of approximately 45°, to the connecting seams 24, since thereby a substantially uniform stability of the connecting seams 24 running in different directions can be achieved.
In alternative embodiments of a packaging bag 20, one or more packaging seams 24 can be configured differently, at least in part, or have different reliefs. Alternatively and/or in addition, one or more connecting seams 24 can be arranged at any angle, e.g. 45°. Alternatively and/or in addition, a packaging bag 24 can have a substantially round or rounded contour at least in some region(s), with the packaging bag 20 preferably having a correspondingly designed or extending connecting seam 24.
According to a preferred embodiment, the third connecting seam (running from right to left) in the example shown alternatively and/or in addition has elevations and/or depressions aligned in accordance with the elevations and/or depressions of the connecting seams arranged in parallel. This is particularly advantageous if the fibers of the packaging material 22 are oriented or run substantially from top to bottom, i.e. substantially parallel to the connecting seams 24 arranged in parallel.
A packaging bag 20 can alternatively and/or in addition have one or more connecting seams 24 created by means of a material connection. In particular, a packaging bag 20 can have a first connecting seam 24 that is substantially free of a material connection, with this first connecting seam 24 connecting at least two superimposed and/or overlapping layers of a packaging material 22 and, preferably, corresponding to a side fold of a tubular bag. Such a packaging bag 20 advantageously has a second connecting seam 24 and a third connecting seam 24 arranged substantially parallel to one another and substantially orthogonal to the first connecting seam 24 and, more preferably, at opposite ends of a closed packaging bag 20. Preferably, the second connecting seam 24 and the third connecting seam 24 are substantially free of a material connection. Alternatively, at least one of the second and third connecting seams 24 can be created at least in some region(s) by means of a material connection or can connect at least two layers of the connection material 22 by means of a material connection. Such a packaging bag 20 is particularly advantageous in a VFFS process, as shown in
A packaging machine 1 according to one aspect of the invention is particularly suitable or adapted to produce and/or to close a packaging bag 20 as shown in
Preferably, the packaging material 22 from which a packaging bag 20 is made has a thickness of between about 0.05 mm and about 1 mm, more preferably between about 0.1 mm and about 0.3 mm. More preferably, the packaging material 22 has a grammage between about 10 g/m2 and about 150 g/m2, more preferably between about 60 g/m2 and about 110 g/m2.
In particular, packaging material 22 with different strength or thickness and/or with a different grammage can form a packaging bag 20.
An exemplary packaging material 22 suitable for use in a packaging machine 1, for use in a connecting device 30, for a method for producing a packaging bag 20 and/or for a packaging bag 20 according to aspects of the invention preferably has one or more of the following parameters and/or properties:
A first, exemplary and suitable packaging material 22 substantially comprises uncoated paper and:
A second, exemplary and also suitable packaging material 22 substantially comprises uncoated paper and:
Alternatively and/or in addition, the packaging material can preferably include one or more of the following properties:
Said parameters and/or properties of a packaging material 22 are only listed as examples and describe packaging materials 22 that are particularly suitable for the invention, in particular with regard to their tear strength and/or durability and/or processability and/or rigidity. However, packaging materials 22 with at least partially different parameters and/or properties are also suitable for the invention. In particular, the packaging material 22 can be selected accordingly for example depending on the requirements of the packaging bag 20 and/or the production method and/or the connecting device 30 and/or the packaging machine 1.
Mechanical connecting describes in particular connecting for example two layers of a packaging material that is substantially free of material connection. Mechanical connecting preferably takes place by forming a positive/form-fit and/or non-positive/friction-fit connection by exerting pressure on one or more, e.g. two, objects to be connected and/or at least partial reshaping of one or more, e.g. two, objects to be connected.
A preferred form of mechanical connecting comprises embossing or interlocking or knurling of at least one of the connection partners, i.e. the objects to be connected.
Preferably, the at least one connecting device 30 is configured in accordance with the connecting devices 30 or locking devices 40 shown in
The packaging material 22 is preferably conveyed further to a device that preferably comprises a connecting device 30, a closing device 40, and a separating device 6. In this way, a first open packaging bag or one having at least one opening can be produced and a second, already filled packaging bag can be closed and isolated in a combined process step. Alternatively, the device comprises only one or two of connecting device 30, closing device 40 and/or separating device 6. One or more of connecting device 30, closing device 40 and/or separating device 6 can also be arranged at a distance from one another. In particular, a separating device 6 can be arranged separately, preferably at an end of the VFFS machine that is remote in the conveying direction 16.
In particular, a connecting device 30 is adapted to create a connecting seam 24 substantially in the transverse direction or orthogonal to the conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22 in order to produce a first packaging bag 20. In addition, a second, already filled packaging bag 20 is preferably closed by creating a connecting seam substantially in the transverse direction or orthogonal to the conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22 by a closing device 40. Furthermore, the packaging material 22 is preferably closed by a separating device 6 along a dividing line 28, substantially in the transverse direction or orthogonal to the conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22, so that the second packaging bag 20 is separated or severed from the packaging material 22.
Preferably, the connecting device 30 and/or the closing device 40 is designed in accordance with the connecting device 30 or closing device 40 shown in
As an alternative to the configuration described above, only one connecting device 30 or one closing device 40 can be provided in order to create a single connecting seam 24 transversely to the conveying direction 16. In this case, the separating line 28 is preferably positioned substantially in the middle of the connecting seam 24 created. This preferred embodiment allows a reduced outlay on components and control.
In the example of the packaging machine 1 shown, at least part of the connecting device 30, the closing device 40 and/or the separating device 6 is designed to be displaceable in order to enable the packaging bag 20 to be filled. In particular, the connecting device 30, the closing device 40 and/or the separating device 6 or a respectively displaceable part thereof is displaced substantially orthogonal or perpendicularly to the conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22. In this way, a connection is created between the filling device 8 and the packaging bag 20 produced, so that the packaging bag 20 can be filled.
A further configuration comprises a connecting device 30 adapted to create at least one connecting seam 24 parallel to the conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22, substantially without a material connection, and a further connecting device 30 and/or a closing device 40 adapted to create at least one connecting seam 24 orthogonal to the conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22, preferably at least in some region(s), by means of a material connection, in particular by means of cold glue, two-component (2K) adhesive, hot-melt adhesive, dispersion adhesive, contact adhesive, polymerization adhesive, pressure-sensitive adhesive or a similar adhesive, in particular with an adhesive that can be cold-bonded, i.e. substantially without heating.
Alternatively and/or in addition, a layer of glue can be applied to the packaging material 22 in the region of a connecting seam 24 to be produced, in particular a head seam, with the layer of glue preferably comprising cold glue and/or a glue that can be processed at room temperature. The glue layer can dry substantially immediately. As a result, the layers of packaging material are preferably not yet connected to one another. A connecting, in particular a gluing of the layers of the packaging material of the head seam, takes place in that the connecting seam 24 is created by heating the glue and/or hot-sealing the glue, in particular at a temperature of about 100-140° C. For example, the glue layer can be applied to one layer of packaging material, so that the glue layer is arranged between two opposite layers of packaging material. It is also possible for a layer of glue to be applied to each layer of packaging material. In the case of a glue layer, the two layers of packaging material are connected by heating the glue layer. If there are two layers of glue, the layers of glue are bonded to each other and to the two layers of packaging material by heating. Heating can take place by means of one or two or more than two heating jaws. A pair of heating jaws can be used. A pair of jaws can be used, one jaw being heated and one jaw being unheated.
For applying one or more of the aforementioned substances, a device can be provided, in particular positioned upstream of a shaping or folding device 4. Preferably, a first connecting seam 24 arranged orthogonal to the conveying direction 16 for producing the packaging bag 20 and a second connecting seam 24 arranged orthogonal to the conveying direction 16 for closing the packaging bag 20 are created, with these connecting seams 24 preferably being arranged at an opposite end of a packaging bag 20 in each case.
In a further embodiment, a connecting seam 24 arranged orthogonal to the conveying direction can be produced by the connecting device 30 and/or the closing device 40 and severed by a separating device 6, preferably about in the middle, so that a part of the connecting seam 24 forms a top seam of a packaging bag 20 and another part of the connecting seam 24 forms a bottom seam of another packaging bag 20. A separating device 6 can be positioned in the immediate vicinity of the connecting device 30 and/or the closing device 24 or at a distance in the conveying direction 16.
| Number | Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 2020 007 609.2 | Dec 2020 | DE | national |
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/EP2021/084774 | 12/8/2021 | WO |
