Packaging machine and method for cleaning thereof

Abstract

A packaging machine (1) is described, comprising a conveying device (5), an isolation chamber (7), a tube forming and sealing device (10) configured to form and longitudinally seal a tube (3), a gas feeding device (14) configured to direct a gas into the tube (3), a cleaning device (19) and a control unit (11) configured to set the packaging machine (1) in a production configuration and in a cleaning configuration. The gas feeding device (14) comprises a gas delivery circuit (20) and a gas delivery source (21) configured to deliver a sterile gas to the gas delivery circuit (20). The gas delivery circuit (20) comprises a connection element (24) configured to be arranged in a production position and in a cleaning position when the packaging machine (1) is controlled to the production configuration and to the cleaning configuration, respectively; when in the production position, the connection element (24) is fluidically connected to the gas delivery source (21) and when in the cleaning position, the connection element (24) is fluidically connected to the cleaning device (19).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a packaging machine for forming packages of pourable products (preferably pourable food).

[0002] The present invention also relates to a method for cleaning a packaging machine used to form a package filled with a pourable product (preferably a pourable food). Background Technology

[0003] As is known, many liquid or pourable foods (such as fruit juice, UHT (ultra-high temperature) milk, wine, ketchup, etc.) are sold in packages made of sterilized packaging materials.

[0004] A typical example is the parallelepiped-shaped packaging for liquids or pourable foods, known as Tetra Brik Aseptic (registered trademark), which is made by sealing and folding laminated strip packaging material. The packaging material has a multi-layered structure, including a base layer (e.g., paper) covered on both sides by heat-sealable plastic material layers (e.g., polyethylene). In the case of aseptic packaging for long-storage products such as UHT milk, the packaging material also includes an oxygen barrier material layer (oxygen barrier layer, such as aluminum foil), which is stacked on top of the heat-sealable plastic material layers and then covered by another heat-sealable plastic material, forming the inner surface of the packaging that ultimately comes into contact with the food.

[0005] This type of packaging is typically produced on fully automated packaging machines that feed rolls of packaging material through sterilization equipment to sterilize the rolls at the sterilization station and then advance them into an isolation chamber (a closed and sterile environment). In the isolation chamber, the sterilized rolls of packaging material are held and advanced. During the advancement of the rolls through the isolation chamber, the rolls are longitudinally folded and sealed at a tube-forming station to form a tube with a longitudinal seam, which is then further fed in a vertical direction.

[0006] To complete the forming operation, the tube is filled with a pourable product, especially a pourable food, and during its advancement in the vertical direction, it is laterally sealed and subsequently cut in the packaging forming device of the packaging machine on equally spaced transverse cross sections.

[0007] This results in pillow-shaped packaging, each pillow-shaped packaging having a longitudinal sealing strip, a top transverse sealing strip, and a bottom transverse sealing strip.

[0008] Typical packaging machines include: conveying equipment for advancing rolls of packaging material along a roll advance path and advancing tubes formed from the rolls of packaging material along a tube advance path; sterilization equipment for sterilizing the rolls of packaging material before they are formed into tubes; tube forming and sealing equipment, which is at least partially arranged in an isolation chamber and configured to form tubes from the advancing rolls of packaging material and to seal the tubes longitudinally; filling equipment for filling the tubes with pourable products; and packaging forming apparatus adapted to form, laterally seal, and cut individual packages from the tubes of packaging material.

[0009] The filling equipment includes a filling pipeline and a product loop, which is fluidly connected to the filling pipeline and the product delivery system.

[0010] An exemplary packaging machine is disclosed in the applicant's patent document EP3456638B1. This packaging machine includes a gas supply device configured to direct a stream of sterile gas into a tube during use to obtain a pressure that provides the correct forming pressure within the tube. In this way, the required hydrostatic pressure provided by the product column is reduced.

[0011] It is known that cleaning operations need to be performed periodically, such as cleaning of at least the filling equipment, or cleaning of both the filling equipment and the gas supply equipment. After cleaning, sterilization is performed.

[0012] Although existing packaging machines work satisfactorily, there is a perceived need for further improvements in this field. Summary of the Invention

[0013] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an improved packaging machine for forming packages filled with pourable products (preferably pourable food).

[0014] Advantageously, another object of the present invention is to provide an improved method for forming a package filled with a pourable product (preferably a pourable food).

[0015] According to the present invention, a packaging machine as claimed in claim 1 is provided.

[0016] Preferred, non-limiting embodiments of the packaging machine are claimed in the claims directly and indirectly dependent on claim 1.

[0017] According to the present invention, a method according to any one of claims 13 to 15 is also provided. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Non-limiting embodiments of the invention will be described by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of a packaging machine according to the present invention, with some parts removed for clarity; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A detailed schematic diagram of the packaging machine, with some parts removed for clarity; Figure 3a and Figure 3b yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the packaging machine in its first and second configurations, with some parts removed for clarity; and Figure 4a yes Figure 3a An enlarged schematic diagram showing details of the packaging machine in its first configuration, with some parts removed for clarity; and Figure 4b This shows the packaging machine in the second configuration. Figure 4b The part.

[0019] Detailed Implementation Plan The number 1 generally indicates a packaging machine used to produce packaging 2 (more specifically, sealed packaging 2) for pourable foods (specifically, pourable foods such as milk, milk drinks, yogurt, yogurt drinks, juice, wine, ketchup, lotion, beverages containing fruit pulp, salt, sugar, etc.).

[0020] Packaging machine 1 is configured to form package 2 from tube 3 folded from roll 4 of packaging material. More specifically, in use, tube 3 extends along a longitudinal axis, and even more specifically has a vertical orientation.

[0021] The packaging material roll 4 has a multi-layer structure and more specifically, it has heat-sealing properties (i.e., the portions of the multi-layer packaging material can be sealed to each other).

[0022] In more detail, the multilayer packaging material may include at least one layer of fibrous material (e.g., paper or cardboard) and at least two heat-sealable plastic material layers (e.g., polyethylene), with the fibrous material layer interposed therebetween. Preferably, one of the two heat-sealable plastic material layers may define the inner surface of the package 2 that comes into contact with the pourable product.

[0023] In addition, the multilayer packaging material may also include a gas and light barrier material layer (e.g., aluminum foil or ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) film), which is preferably arranged between one of the heat-sealable plastic material layers and the fiber material layer.

[0024] Preferably, the packaging material may also include another heat-sealable plastic material layer inserted between the gas and light barrier material layer and the fiber material layer.

[0025] Special Reference Figure 1The packaging machine 1 includes a conveying device 5 configured (in a known manner) to advance a roll 4 along a roll advance path P, more specifically, from a conveying station to a tube forming station, where, in use, the roll 4 is formed into a tube 3. The conveying device 5 may also be configured to advance the tube 3 along a tube advance path Q.

[0026] The packaging machine 1 also includes an isolation chamber 7 with an internal environment 8, more specifically an internal sterile environment 7, which contains sterile gases, such as sterile air.

[0027] In addition, the isolation room 7 can separate the internal environment 8 from the (harsh) external environment 9.

[0028] The packaging machine 1 also includes a tube forming and sealing device 10 configured to form a tube 3, more specifically a tube 3 folded from a roll 4 and longitudinally sealed.

[0029] More specifically, the tube forming and sealing device 10 is at least partially arranged within the internal environment 8 and is configured to form and longitudinally seal the tube 3 within the internal environment 8.

[0030] In further detail, the tube forming and sealing device 10 is configured to gradually fold the roll 4 into a tube 3, preferably by overlapping the first and second side edges of the roll 4 to form a longitudinal seam portion of the tube 3. Preferably, the tube forming and sealing device 10 can be configured to longitudinally seal the longitudinal seam portion.

[0031] Additionally, the conveying device 5 can be configured to advance the tube 3 and any intermediates of the tube 3 along the tube advance path Q. Specifically, the term "intermediates of the tube 3" refers to any configuration of the roll 4 before the tube structure is obtained and after the tube forming and sealing device 10 begins folding the roll 4. In other words, the intermediates of the tube 3 are the result of gradually folding the roll 4 (preferably by overlapping the first and second side edges of the roll 4 with each other) to obtain the tube 3.

[0032] The packaging machine 1 may include a control unit 11 configured to control the operation of the packaging machine 1.

[0033] More specifically, the control unit 11 can be configured to control the packaging machine 1 to: Production configuration (see) Figure 3b and 4b ), wherein packaging machine 1 is configured to form package 2 filled with pourable product; and / or Cleaning configuration (see) Figure 3a and 4a The packaging machine 1 is configured to be at least partially cleaned (i.e., at least a portion of the packaging machine 1 is cleaned or the entire packaging machine 1 is cleaned); and / or Sterilization preparation (see) Figure 3b and 4b The packaging machine 1 is configured to be at least partially sterilized (i.e., at least a portion of the packaging machine 1 is sterilized or the entire packaging machine 1 is sterilized).

[0034] More specifically, the control unit 11 is configured to control the packaging machine 1 to the cleaning configuration after controlling it to the production configuration (and after the production cycle ends). The control unit 11 is also configured to control the packaging machine 1 to the sterilization configuration after controlling it to the cleaning configuration (and after the cleaning cycle ends).

[0035] In other words, after production, the packaging machine 1 is first cleaned and then sterilized.

[0036] Special Reference Figure 1 And 3, the packaging machine 1 includes a filling device 13 configured to use a pourable product filling tube 3, especially when the packaging machine 1 is controlled to a production configuration.

[0037] Furthermore, the filling device 13 may be controllable and / or controlled to be fluidly connected to a product delivery system. Specifically, the product delivery system may be configured to transport the pourable product to be filled to the filling device 13. Additionally, the product delivery system may be configured to regulate the pourable product to be filled into the package 2.

[0038] More specifically, the filling device 13 can be configured to fill, more specifically, continuously fill the tube 3 with the pourable product, and in particular, the packaging machine 1 can manipulate the tube 3 to obtain a package 2 filled with the pourable product.

[0039] Preferably, but not necessarily, and when the packaging machine 1 is controlled to a production configuration, the internal environment 8 may include (i.e., may contain) sterile gas at a given pressure, more specifically sterile air. Preferably, the given pressure may be (slightly) higher than ambient pressure to reduce the risk of any contaminants entering the internal environment 8. For example, the given pressure may be about 100 Pa to 500 Pa (0.001 bar to 0.005 bar) higher than ambient pressure.

[0040] Special Reference Figure 2 , 3a 3b, the packaging machine 1 includes a gas supply device 14, which is configured to guide, more specifically continuously guide, a flow of sterile gas, more specifically a flow of sterile air into the pipe 3 during use, particularly when the packaging machine 1 is controlled to a production configuration.

[0041] Additionally, the packaging machine 1 may also include a dividing element 15 that is placed inside the tube 3 during use and when the packaging machine 1 is controlled to a production configuration, and the dividing element 15 is designed to divide the tube 3 into a first space 16 and a second space 17 during use.

[0042] More specifically, the first space 16 may be defined by the pipe 3, preferably the wall of the pipe 3, and the partition element 15. Furthermore, the first space 16 may have an opening leading to the interior environment 8. More preferably, the partition element 15 may define the first space 16 at its downstream portion, particularly at its bottom portion.

[0043] More specifically, the second space 17 can be defined in use by the pipe 3, particularly the wall of the pipe 3, the partition element 15, and the transverse sealing portion provided at the axial end of the pipe 3.

[0044] Advantageously, the gas supply device 14 can be configured to direct a flow of sterile gas into the second space 17, or even more specifically to make the pressure in the second space 17 higher than the pressure in the first space 16.

[0045] In more detail, the first space 16 is arranged upstream of the second space 17 along the pipe advance path Q. Preferably, the first space 16 is arranged upstream of the separator element 15 along the pipe advance path Q. In the specific example shown, the second space 17 is placed below the first space 16.

[0046] Preferably, the second space 17 defines the high-pressure area within the tube 3, and the first space 16 defines the low-pressure area within the tube 3.

[0047] In the context of this application, the high-pressure zone (i.e., the second space 17) should be understood as a region where the internal pressure is in the range of approximately 5 kPa to 40 kPa (0.05 bar to 0.4 bar) above ambient pressure, particularly in the range of approximately 10 kPa to 30 kPa (0.10 bar to 0.30 bar) above ambient pressure (i.e., the pressure within the second space 17 is in the range of approximately 5 kPa to 40 kPa (0.05 bar to 0.4 bar) above ambient pressure, particularly in the range of approximately 10 kPa to 30 kPa (0.10 bar to 0.30 bar) above ambient pressure). In other words, the second space 17 is overpressured.

[0048] The low-pressure zone (i.e., the first space 16) should be understood as a pressure that is slightly higher than ambient pressure. In particular, slightly higher than ambient pressure means a pressure in the range of 100 Pa to 500 Pa (0.001 bar to 0.005 bar) above ambient pressure.

[0049] In more detail, the first space 16 may be in (direct) fluid connection with the internal environment 8. Therefore, sterile gases present in the first space 16 can flow into the internal environment 8.

[0050] Preferably, the tube 3 (and its intermediate) is located at least partially within the isolation chamber 7 (especially within the internal environment 8).

[0051] Preferably, the pressure inside the first space 16 is (substantially) equal to the given pressure present in the isolation chamber 7, preferably the internal environment 8. Preferably, the pressure inside the first space 16 is in the range of 100 Pa to 500 Pa (0.001 bar to 0.005 bar) above the ambient pressure.

[0052] The filling device 13, more specifically the filling conduit 14, can be configured to guide the pourable product into the second space 17. Thus, in use, the second space 17 may contain the pourable product and pressurized sterile gas. The pressurized sterile gas provides the hydrostatic pressure required for proper formation of the package 2.

[0053] Advantageously, the separating element 15 may be designed to provide at least one fluid passage during use, more specifically having an annular shape, for fluid connection between the second space 17 and the first space 16, thereby allowing sterile gas to leak from the second space 17 to the first space 16 during use.

[0054] Preferably, the gas supply device 14 is configured to provide approximately 10 to 200 Nm³ of gas. 3 / h, especially 20 to 180 Nm 3 / h, or even more specifically, about 25 to 150 Nm 3 A variable sterile gas flow rate of / h.

[0055] Preferably, the gas supply device 14 is configured to change the sterile gas flow according to the sterile gas flowing from the second space 17 to the first space 16.

[0056] More specifically, the gas supply device 14 can be configured to control the gas pressure in the second space 17 within a range of 5 kPa to 40 kPa (0.05 bar to 0.40 bar) above the ambient pressure, particularly 10 kPa to 30 kPa (0.1 bar to 0.3 bar).

[0057] The packaging machine 1 also includes a packaging forming device 18, which is configured to manipulate, preferably at least partially form and / or laterally seal and / or laterally cut the tube 3 to obtain the package 2 from the tube 3.

[0058] In more detail, the packaging forming device 18 can be arranged downstream of the isolation chamber 7 along the pipe advance path Q.

[0059] In addition, the packaging forming device 18 can carry the isolation chamber 7.

[0060] Preferably, but not necessarily, the control unit 11 may be configured to actuate and control the operation of the conveying equipment 5, the tube forming and sealing equipment 10, the filling equipment 13, the gas supply equipment 14, and the packaging forming device 18 when the packaging machine 1 is brought into a production configuration.

[0061] Additionally, the control unit 11 can be configured to stop the operation of the conveying device 5, the tube forming and sealing device 10, the filling device 13, the gas supply device 14, and the packaging forming device 18 when the packaging machine 1 is controlled to a cleaning configuration or a sterilization configuration.

[0062] Referring particularly to Figure 3, the packaging machine 1 may include a cleaning device 19, which is configured to clean at least a portion of the packaging machine 1, such as a portion of the gas supply device 14 and / or a portion of the filling device 13, especially when the packaging machine 1 is controlled to a cleaning configuration.

[0063] More specifically, the cleaning equipment 19 is configured to clean parts of the packaging machine 1 with cleaning agents, particularly liquid cleaning agents.

[0064] Additionally, the packaging machine 1 may include sterilization equipment configured to sterilize at least a portion of the packaging machine 1, particularly when the packaging machine 1 is controlled to a sterilization configuration.

[0065] More specifically, the sterilization equipment is configured to sterilize parts of the packaging machine 1 using chemical sterilizing agents such as hydrogen peroxide.

[0066] Special Reference Figures 3a to 4b The gas supply device 14 can be configured to extract sterile gas from the internal environment 8, more specifically to pressurize (compress) the sterile gas, and to guide the sterile gas, preferably the pressurized (compressed) sterile gas, into the second space 17.

[0067] More specifically, the gas supply device 14 may include: Gas delivery circuit 20 is configured to guide gas flow into pipe 3, more specifically into second space 17, during use (i.e., when packaging machine 1 is controlled to a production configuration); and Gas delivery source 21 is configured to provide gas, more specifically, sterile gas.

[0068] Preferably, but not necessarily, the cleaning device 19 may be configured to clean the gas delivery circuit 20 when the packaging machine 1 is controlled to a cleaning configuration.

[0069] According to some further details, the gas delivery circuit 20 may include a gas supply line 22 configured to guide a gas flow into the pipe 3, more specifically into the second space 16, during use, and an inlet line 23 for receiving gas from the gas delivery source 21.

[0070] Advantageously, the gas delivery circuit 20 includes a connecting element 24, which is configured to be positioned in the production position when the packaging machine 1 is controlled to the production configuration and the cleaning configuration, respectively (see...). Figure 3b ) and cleaning location (see Figure 3a ).

[0071] As shown in the example, connecting element 24 can be a connecting conduit. Specifically, the connecting conduit can be installed in two locations (see...). Figure 3a and 3b This defines the production and cleaning positions. Alternatively or additionally, the connecting element 24 may include a valve (e.g., a three-way valve). Thus, the corresponding position of the shutter can define the production and cleaning positions.

[0072] Furthermore, when the connecting element 24 is in the production position, it is fluidly (and mechanically) connected to the gas delivery source 21; when the connecting element 24 is in the cleaning position, it is fluidly (and mechanically) connected to the cleaning equipment 19.

[0073] Additionally, the connecting element 24 can be fluidly and mechanically connected to the inlet line 23 (in both the cleaning and production positions). Thus, when the connecting element 24 is controlled to the production position, the inlet line 23 is fluidly connected to the gas delivery source 21 to receive the gas to be fed into the pipe 3, and when controlled to the cleaning position, the inlet line 23 is fluidly connected to the cleaning device 19 (to receive the cleaning fluid used during cleaning performed by the cleaning device 19).

[0074] Preferably, but not necessarily, the inlet line 23 may be configured to direct the gas flow into the internal environment 8, and the gas supply line 22 may be configured to draw gas from the internal environment 8.

[0075] Therefore, the gas supply device 14 can not only be configured to guide the gas flow into the pipe 3, but also to introduce gas, more specifically sterile gas, into the internal environment 8.

[0076] According to the example shown, the gas supply line 22 may include a portion disposed outside the interior environment 8 and other portions located inside the interior environment 8.

[0077] According to the example shown, the inlet conduit 23 includes a portion located outside the interior environment 8 and other portions located within the interior environment 8.

[0078] Referring particularly to Figures 3 to 4b, the inlet conduit 23 may have an outlet opening configured to guide gas into the internal environment 8 (when the packaging machine 1 is in production configuration (and sterilization configuration)). According to the example shown, the outlet opening is arranged within the internal environment 8.

[0079] Furthermore, the gas supply line 22 may include an inlet opening configured to receive gas from the internal environment 8 (when the packaging machine 1 is in production configuration (and sterilization configuration)). In other words, there is no mechanical connection between the inlet line 23 and the gas supply line 22. According to the example shown, the inlet opening is arranged within the internal environment 8.

[0080] When the packaging machine 1 is controlled to a clean configuration, a fluid and preferably mechanical connection is established between the inlet pipe 23 and the gas supply pipe 22 by means of an auxiliary connecting element 25 that is fluidly (and mechanically) connected to the gas supply pipe 22 and the inlet pipe 23 and inserted therebetween.

[0081] According to the example shown, auxiliary connection element 25 is an auxiliary conduit. Alternatively or additionally, auxiliary connection element 25 may include a valve, such as a three-way valve.

[0082] More specifically, the auxiliary connection element 25 can be installed at the outlet opening of the inlet pipe 23 and at the inlet opening of the gas supply pipe 22.

[0083] Specifically, when the packaging machine 1 is in clean configuration, the auxiliary connecting element 25 can be arranged within the internal environment 8.

[0084] Advantageously, when the packaging machine 1 is in a configuration different from and / or not controlled to a clean configuration, more specifically when in a production configuration (and when in a sterilization configuration), the auxiliary connection element 25 can be detached from the inlet line 23 and the gas supply line 22.

[0085] Therefore, after the production cycle ends and when the control unit 11 switches the packaging machine 1 to the cleaning configuration, the auxiliary connection element 25 needs to be installed on the inlet pipe 23 and the gas supply pipe 22. Furthermore, after the cleaning cycle ends and before the sterilization cycle is performed, the auxiliary connection element 25 is removed from the inlet pipe 23 and the gas supply pipe 22.

[0086] Special Reference Figure 4b The packaging machine 1 may include a bend 26 that is arranged within the internal environment and installed into and fluidly connected to the inlet pipe 23 when the packaging machine 1 is controlled to a production configuration (and in a sterilization configuration).

[0087] Specifically, the bend 26 is installed into the inlet pipe 23 after the auxiliary connecting element 25 is removed.

[0088] More specifically, the bend 26 may include an inlet and an outlet, which are configured to receive and discharge gas, respectively. More specifically, the inlet may be arranged adjacent to the outlet opening of the inlet conduit 23.

[0089] Advantageously, the bend 26 can be bent so that the outlet can be positioned adjacent to the inlet opening of the gas supply line 22.

[0090] Preferably, but not necessarily, the gas delivery circuit 20 may include a suction device 27, such as a compressor, configured to generate suction to extract sterile gas from the internal environment 8, and more specifically to pressurize (compress) the sterile gas and guide the pressurized sterile gas, more specifically through the gas supply line 22, into the pipe 3, and more specifically into the second space 17.

[0091] More specifically, the suction device 27 can be configured to generate suction force when the packaging machine 1 is set to production configuration.

[0092] Advantageously, the suction device 27 may be included in and / or included in the gas supply line 22. In particular, the suction device 27 is also cleaned when the gas supply line 22 is cleaned while the packaging machine 1 is controlled to a clean configuration.

[0093] Additionally, the suction device 27 can be inserted between the first and second portions of the gas supply line 22.

[0094] Special Reference Figure 2 3. The gas supply line 22 may include an end portion 28 extending within the internal environment 8 and, in use, when the packaging machine 1 is controlled to a production configuration, extending within the line 3. More specifically, the end portion 28 may have a (substantially) linear shape.

[0095] Additionally, the end portion 28 can carry the partition element 15.

[0096] Special Reference Figure 3a The cleaning device 19 may include a connecting pipe 35 that fluidly connects the cleaning device 19 to the gas delivery circuit 20 when the packaging machine 1 is controlled to the cleaning configuration.

[0097] More specifically, when the packaging machine 1 is in a configuration different from and / or not controlled to a clean configuration, such as when in a production configuration or sterilization configuration, the connecting pipe 35 may be disconnected from the gas delivery circuit 20.

[0098] More specifically, when the connecting element 24 is in the cleaning position, it is installed onto the connecting tube 35, and when it is in the production position, it is removed from the connecting tube 35.

[0099] Special Reference Figure 3a The cleaning unit 19 may also include a tail coupling pipe 36, which fluidly connects the gas supply line (22) to the cleaning unit 19 when the packaging machine 1 is controlled to the cleaning configuration.

[0100] More specifically, when the packaging machine 1 is controlled to a clean configuration, the end coupling tube 36 can be coupled to the end portion 28, and when the packaging machine 1 is controlled to a configuration different from and / or not controlled to a clean configuration, more specifically when in a production configuration (and when in a sterilization configuration), it is decoupled from the end portion 28.

[0101] According to the example shown, the end coupling tube 36 and the connecting tube 35 allow for the definition of a closed loop defined by the cleaning unit 19 and the gas supply circuit 20.

[0102] Advantageously, the delivery circuit 20 can be inserted between the connecting element 24 and the end coupling tube 36.

[0103] Referring specifically to Figures 3 to 4b, the filling device 13 may include a product circuit 37 which is fluidly connected to and / or connectable to a product delivery system and is configured to guide the pourable product into the tube 3.

[0104] Additionally, the packaging machine 1, more specifically the filling device 13, may include a control valve 38 that is fluid-inserted between the product circuit 37 and the product conveying system, and can be controlled to open and close the fluid connection between the product circuit 37 and the product conveying system, respectively.

[0105] More specifically, when the packaging machine 1 is controlled to the cleaning configuration and the production configuration respectively, the control valve 38 can be controlled to the closed configuration and the open configuration.

[0106] refer to Figures 3a to 4b The product circuit 37 includes a filling line 39 configured to fill the pourable product tube 3. Furthermore, the filling line 39 is at least partially arranged within the tube 3 during use.

[0107] Additionally, the product circuit 37 may also include a pipe assembly 40 connected (and fluidly connected) to the filling line 39 and the control valve 38. Specifically, the pipe assembly 40 is fluidly connected to and non-fluidly connected to the product delivery system when the control valve 15 is in the open and closed configurations, respectively.

[0108] Advantageously, when the packaging machine 1 is controlled to a clean configuration, the end coupling tube 36 can also be (fluidly and mechanically) connected to the product circuit 37, and more specifically to the filling line 39.

[0109] Additionally, when the packaging machine 1 is controlled to the production configuration (or sterilization configuration), the connecting pipe 35 is separated from the product circuit 37, and more specifically from the filling pipe 38.

[0110] Preferably, but not necessarily, at least a portion of the filling conduit 39 may extend within the end portion 28 of the gas supply conduit 22. According to this embodiment, the flow channel for sterile gas to be fed into the second space 17 may be defined at least partially by the filling conduit 39 and the end portion 28.

[0111] Special Reference Figure 3a The packaging machine 1 may also include a connector tube 41 that is fluidly connected to and / or may be connected to the gas delivery circuit 20 and the product circuit 37.

[0112] Advantageously, the control valve 38 can be configured to open the fluid connection between the product circuit 37 and the gas delivery circuit 20 when the packaging machine 1 is controlled to a clean configuration.

[0113] Additionally, control valve 38 can be configured to shut off the fluid connection between product circuit 37 and gas delivery circuit 20 when the packaging machine 1 is not controlled to and / or is controlled to a configuration different from the cleaning configuration, such as when it is controlled to the production configuration or sterilization configuration.

[0114] Additionally, control valve 38 can be configured to close the fluid connection between product circuit 37 and product delivery system when control valve 38 opens the fluid connection between product circuit 37 and gas delivery circuit 20.

[0115] refer to Figure 2 The packaging forming apparatus 18 may include a plurality of operating components 42 (only one shown) and a plurality of reversing components 43 (only one shown), which are configured to manipulate the tube 3, more specifically the portion of the tube 3 filled with a pourable product, to form the package 2.

[0116] More specifically, each operating component 42 may be configured to cooperate with a corresponding counter-operating component 43 to manipulate, more specifically, at least partially shape and / or laterally seal and / or laterally cut the tube 3 to form the package 2.

[0117] Additionally, the packaging forming apparatus 18 may include a conveying unit configured to advance the operating component 42 and the counter-operation component 43 along their respective propulsion paths.

[0118] In more detail, during use, each operating component 42 and each counter-operating component 43 advances cyclically along their respective propulsion paths.

[0119] In addition, each operating component 42 and each anti-operation component 42 may include: Half-shell 44, which is configured to contact tube 3 and at least partially define the shape of package 2; and / or One of the sealing element 45 or the anti-sealing element 46, which is configured to laterally seal the tube 3 between adjacent packages 2; and / or One of the cutting elements or reverse cutting elements, used to laterally cut tube 3 between adjacent packages 2.

[0120] Preferably, but not necessarily, the packaging forming apparatus 18 may be of the type described in the applicant's patent documents EP3254980A1 and EP3476751A1. It is explicitly understood that all functional and structural features of the forming components of patent documents EP3254980A1 and EP3476751A1 may be applied to the packaging forming apparatus 18 described herein.

[0121] Preferably, but not necessarily, the packaging machine 1 may also include sterilization equipment for sterilizing at least a portion of the roll 4. Advantageously, the control unit 11 may be configured to actuate and control the operation of the sterilization equipment when the packaging machine 1 is controlled to a production configuration. Furthermore, the control unit 11 may be configured to disable the sterilization equipment when the packaging machine 1 is controlled to a cleaning configuration or a sterilization configuration.

[0122] Preferably, but not necessarily, the packaging machine 1 can be configured to transfer the package 2 to downstream equipment.

[0123] Preferably, but not necessarily, a packaging line may be provided, which includes a packaging machine 1 and at least one downstream device and / or product conveying source.

[0124] Downstream equipment can be configured to receive package 2 and perform further actions on package 2.

[0125] Downstream equipment may include one or more of the following: a cardboard packaging machine configured to group and package multiple formed and sealed packages 2 into cartons; a collection device configured to store multiple packages 2; and a cap applicator configured to apply a cap or lid to each package 2.

[0126] This disclosure also provides a method for forming multiple packages 2 filled with pourable products. Preferably, the method is performed by a packaging machine 1.

[0127] This disclosure also provides a method for cleaning at least a portion of the packaging machine 1.

[0128] The cleaning method includes setting the packaging machine 1 to a cleaning configuration.

[0129] Packaging machine 1 was then set to sterilization mode, and subsequently switched back to production mode.

[0130] Preferably, but not necessarily, the packaging machine 1 can be repeatedly controlled to production configuration, cleaning configuration, and sterilization configuration.

[0131] Furthermore, when packaging machine 1 is controlled to: During production, packaging machine 1 forms package 2; During the cleaning process, at least the gas delivery circuit 20 is cleaned; and Advantageously, the sterilization configuration is used to sterilize at least some parts of the packaging machine 1.

[0132] Advantageously, after each production stop, packaging machine 1 is controlled to the cleaning configuration, and then packaging machine 1 is controlled to the sterilization configuration.

[0133] When packaging machine 1 is controlled in a production configuration, the method includes: The step of advancing the roll 4 along the roll advance path P by means of the conveying equipment 5; The step of forming a tube 3 from a propelled roll 4 using tube forming and sealing equipment 10; The step of longitudinally sealing tube 3 using tube forming and sealing equipment 10; The steps to advance pipe 3 along pipe advance path Q; The step of filling tube 3 with pourable product using filling device 13; The guiding step, during which the gas supply device 14 guides the gas flow into the pipe 3, and more specifically into the second space 17; and The packaging 2 is formed and laterally sealed (and cut) by the propelled tube 3 through the packaging forming equipment 16.

[0134] When the packaging machine 1 is controlled to the production configuration, the guiding steps include the gas supply device 14 drawing sterile gas from the internal environment 8. More specifically, the gas supply line 22 guides the sterile gas flow into the pipe 3. Additionally, the suction device 27 draws sterile gas from the internal environment 8 and guides it through the gas supply line 22. Furthermore, the sterile gas is guided into the internal environment 8 through the inlet line 23.

[0135] When the packaging machine 1 is controlled to the cleaning configuration, at least the gas delivery circuit 20, and preferably the product circuit 37, is cleaned.

[0136] In more detail, the cleaning methods include: The setup step involves setting the packaging machine 1 to a clean configuration and the connecting element 24 to a clean position; and The cleaning step, during which the cleaning fluid is directed at least through the gas delivery circuit 20, and preferably also through the product circuit 37.

[0137] More specifically, during the setup process, the connecting element 24 is detached from the gas delivery source 21 and installed into the cleaning unit 19.

[0138] Specifically, after cleaning is completed, the connecting element 24 is returned to the production position. More specifically, the connecting element 24 is detached from the cleaning unit 19 and installed into the gas delivery source 21.

[0139] Advantageously, during the setup process, auxiliary connection element 25 is installed to gas supply line 22 and inlet line 23.

[0140] Additionally, before installing the auxiliary connection element 25, remove the bend 26. After cleaning, remove the auxiliary connection element 25 and install the bend 26 into the inlet pipe 23.

[0141] Preferably, the cleaning method further includes a coupling step during which the end coupling tube 36 is coupled to the gas delivery circuit 20, and preferably also to the product circuit 37.

[0142] After cleaning, the end coupling tube 36 is removed from the gas delivery circuit 20, and preferably also from the product circuit 37.

[0143] Preferably, during cleaning, the control valve 38 is controlled to the closed position.

[0144] The advantages of the packaging machine 1 and / or method according to the present invention will be clear from the foregoing description.

[0145] In particular, the packaging machine 1 allows for convenient cleaning of at least the gas delivery circuit 20.

[0146] In addition, the gas delivery circuit 20 and the product circuit 37 can be easily cleaned in parallel.

[0147] Obviously, changes can be made to the packaging machine 1 and / or method described herein without departing from the scope of protection defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A packaging machine (1) for forming a package (2) filled with a pourable product, comprising: The conveying equipment (5) is configured to advance the roll (4) of packaging material along the roll advance path (P); The isolation room (7) separates the internal environment (8) containing sterile gases from the external environment (9) during use; Tube forming and sealing equipment (10), which is at least partially arranged in the isolation chamber (7), and is configured to form and longitudinally seal tubes (3) from rolls (4) of packaging material advanced in use; A gas supply device (14) is configured to guide a gas flow into the pipe (3) during use; A cleaning device (19) configured to clean at least a portion of the gas supply device (14); as well as A control unit (11) is configured to control the operation of the packaging machine (1) and is configured to set the packaging machine (1) to: In a production configuration, the packaging machine (1) is configured to form a package (2) filled with the pourable product; and A cleaning configuration in which the packaging machine (1) is configured to be cleaned; The gas supply device (14) includes a gas delivery circuit (20) and a gas delivery source (21), wherein the gas delivery circuit (20) is configured to guide the gas flow into the pipe (3) during use, and the gas delivery source (21) is configured to deliver the sterile gas to the gas delivery circuit (20); The gas delivery circuit (20) includes a connecting element (24) configured to be positioned in the production and cleaning positions when the packaging machine (1) is controlled to the production and cleaning configurations, respectively. When in the production position, the connecting element (24) is fluidly connected to the gas delivery source (21), and when in the cleaning position, the connecting element (24) is fluidly connected to the cleaning equipment (19).

2. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 1, wherein the cleaning device (19) includes a connecting pipe (35) that fluidly connects the cleaning device (19) to the gas delivery circuit (20) via the connecting element (24) when the packaging machine (1) is controlled to the cleaning configuration.

3. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 2, wherein when the packaging machine (1) is in a configuration different from and / or not controlled to the cleaning configuration, the connecting pipe (35) is disconnected from the gas delivery circuit (20).

4. The packaging machine (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the gas delivery circuit (20) comprises: An inlet pipe (23), which is fluidly connected to the connecting element (24), is configured to receive the gas from the gas delivery source (21) when the packaging machine (1) is in the production configuration, and is configured to direct the gas into the internal environment (8); as well as A gas supply line (22) is configured to guide the gas flow into the pipe (3) during use, and is configured to draw the gas from the internal environment (8) and guide the gas flow into the pipe (3); The packaging machine (1) includes an auxiliary connection element (25) that fluidly connects the inlet line (23) and the gas supply line (22) to each other when the packaging machine (1) is controlled to the cleaning configuration.

5. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 4, wherein the auxiliary connecting element (25) is detached from the inlet pipe (23) when the packaging machine (1) is in a configuration different from and / or not controlled to the cleaning configuration and / or when it is in the production configuration.

6. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the packaging machine (1) includes a bend (26) arranged within the internal environment (8) and connected to the inlet pipe (23) when the packaging machine (1) is controlled to the production configuration.

7. The packaging machine (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the gas supply device (14) includes a suction device (27) configured to draw gas from the internal environment (8) and is included in the gas supply line (22).

8. The packaging machine (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a filling device (13) configured to fill the tube (3) with the pourable product; The filling device (13) includes a product circuit (37) which is fluidly connected to and / or connectable to a product delivery system and is configured to guide the pourable product into the tube (3). The packaging machine (1) includes a connector tube (41) connected to the gas delivery circuit (20) and the product circuit (37); The filling device (13) includes a control valve (38) configured to open the fluid connection between the product circuit (37) and the gas delivery circuit (20) when the packaging machine (1) is controlled to the cleaning configuration.

9. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 8, wherein the control valve (38) is configured to close the fluid connection between the product circuit (37) and the gas delivery circuit (20) when the packaging machine (1) is controlled to the production configuration.

10. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the control valve (38) is configured to close the fluid connection between the product circuit (37) and the product conveying system when the control valve opens the fluid connection between the product circuit (37) and the gas delivery circuit (20).

11. The packaging machine (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (11) is configured to control the packaging machine (1) to a sterilization configuration for sterilizing at least a portion of the packaging machine (1); When the packaging machine (1) is controlled to the sterilization configuration, the connecting element (24) is positioned at the production location.

12. The packaging machine (1) according to any one of the preceding claims further includes a dividing element (15) which, in use and when the packaging machine (1) is controlled to the production configuration, is placed inside the tube (3) and is designed to divide the tube (3) into a first space (16) and a second space (17), wherein the gas supply device (14) is configured to direct the gas flow into the second space (17) such that the gas pressure in the second space (17) is higher than the gas pressure in the first space (16).

13. A method for cleaning portions of the packaging machine (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, the method comprising: The setup step, during which the packaging machine (1) is set to the cleaning configuration and the connecting element (24) is set to the cleaning position; as well as The cleaning step, during which cleaning fluid is directed at least through the gas delivery circuit (20).

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein during the setup step, the connecting element (24) is detached from the gas delivery source (21) and installed into the cleaning unit (19).

15. The method according to claim 13 or 14, further comprising a coupling step, during which the coupling tube (36) of the cleaning device (19) is coupled to the gas delivery circuit (20); The delivery circuit (20) is inserted between the connecting element (24) and the coupling tube (36).

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