Tubular bag and packaging machine for the production of a tubular bag

Abstract

Tubular bag (1) comprising a head side (2) and a bottom side (3) extending parallel to the head side (2), wherein the tubular bag (1) comprises a first connection (4) extending parallel to the head side (2) and to the bottom side (3), wherein the first connection (4) is formed by material bonding, and wherein the tubular bag (1) comprises at least two lateral second connections (5) connecting the head side (2) to the bottom side (3), wherein the second connections (5) are formed by material bonding, wherein the first connection (4) comprises a flap and wherein a tab (7) is formed by a cut (6) and / or a perforation in the flap, characterized in that the cut (6) and / or the perforation has been carried out by a laser.

Description

The invention relates to a tubular bag according to the preamble of claim 1 and a machine for producing the tubular bag according to claim 7. In the prior art, it is known to produce tubular bags by forming a film web into a tube over a forming shoulder and then sealing the edges of the film web with a longitudinal sealing unit. Subsequently, a first lateral transverse seal is created using a transverse sealing unit, onto which the goods to be packaged are placed by means of a dosing unit. A second transverse seal is created above the packaged goods. This second transverse seal can simultaneously form the first side of a new tubular bag. It is also known to integrate sealing devices such as zip closures into the film tube so that the tubular bag can be resealed after initial opening. An exemplary design for such a tubular bag is known from German patent application DE 20 2018 106 482 U1. A disadvantage of zip-lock pouches is that the zip closure is complex to manufacture and must be sealed along the entire length of the film. Particularly in the area of ​​the cross-seal forming the sides of the pouch, there is the problem of insufficient heating of the film during the sealing process, which can lead to leaks in the sides of the pouch. Furthermore, the zip closure is often made of a different material than the pouch itself, making recycling difficult or impossible. These pouches are therefore complex and expensive to produce. It is also known to reseal a tubular bag after opening it by rolling and / or folding and then securing it with, for example, a rubber band or a clip. Such a bag clip is known, for example, from DE 69 303 472 T2. A disadvantage of securing a folded pouch with a rubber band or clip is that a sufficient number of these items must be readily available at home or elsewhere, as they are usually sold and distributed separately from the packaging. Especially when traveling, these closure devices are often not readily available. However, simply folding and / or rolling the pouch without additional securing is insufficient to prevent it from opening unintentionally. There is therefore a great need for a resealable tubular bag. Furthermore, the tubular bag should be cost-effective, as well as quick and easy to manufacture. It should also be leak-proof and securely contain the product after resealing. Particular emphasis is placed on the possibility of extensive recycling of the tubular bag. The invention aims to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art and provide such a tubular bag. This problem is solved in a surprisingly simple but effective way by a tubular bag according to the teaching of claim 1 and a packaging machine according to the teaching of claim 7. According to the invention, a tubular bag is proposed, wherein the tubular bag comprises a head and a bottom parallel to the head, wherein the tubular bag comprises a first connection parallel to the head and bottom, wherein the first connection is material-bonded, wherein the tubular bag comprises at least two second connections laterally connecting the head and bottom, wherein the second connections are material-bonded, wherein the first connection comprises a flap, and wherein a flap is formed by a slit and / or a perforation in the flap. The tubular bag is characterized in that the slit and / or perforation has been carried out by a laser. The basic idea of ​​the invention is that the tubular bag, which is open at the top, can be closed by simply folding and / or crumpling the top edge and then inserting it into the flap. The flap's design within the flap allows the tubular bag to be manufactured from a single material, thus ensuring easy recyclability. Furthermore, laser-cutting the flap is technically simple and quick, and therefore cost-effective. Since the flap is significantly thinner than a zip closure, a reliably tight seal is achieved at all connections, especially the cross-connection. The tubular bag is formed by first forming a film web into a tube, with the edges of the film web being joined together by a connecting unit, for example, a longitudinal connecting unit, thus creating a first bond. The film web can be overlapped at the edges, so that one side of the film is placed on top of the other side of the film. The edges point in opposite directions. Alternatively, the edges can point in the same direction, so that the edges are placed on top of each other on the inside of the film. Preferably, the first bond is either a longitudinal or a transverse bond, depending on the orientation of the tubular bag. The first material-bonded connection is preferably achieved by applying heat, whereby the material of the film or of a single layer or layers of the film is at least partially melted and brought into contact with each other, particularly under pressure. The first connection is especially preferably produced by sealing or welding the film. A flap is formed during the first connection. A flap is created when the longitudinal edges of the film are aligned in the same direction during the formation of the tube, preferably with their longitudinal edges aligned, and the film is then sealed on both sides by a connecting unit, preferably a longitudinal connecting unit, to form a tube. It is preferably conceivable that the flap is fixed to the tube in the area of ​​the second connection. If a film coated on one side with a sealing layer is used, it is also possible to prevent the flap from being attached to the tube. The tubular bag has a top and a bottom side that run parallel to each other. The top side is the side that is on top during normal use. The bottom side is opposite the top side and is therefore on the bottom during normal use.Additionally or alternatively, the top and bottom sides can be defined by printing. Essentially, it is arbitrary which side is the top and which is the bottom. In symmetrically constructed tubular bags, the top side can be defined by the fact that this side is open. In the simplest version, the top and bottom sides are formed by simply folding the film web. To reinforce the fold, they can be creased to improve the shape of the tubular bag. Preferably, a perforation is introduced at the top side. The perforation facilitates the opening of the tubular bag at the top. This top-side perforation is particularly preferably applied using a laser, especially the same laser that, according to the invention, also produces the cut and / or perforation of the flap.Alternatively, the perforation of the end face could be introduced during the production of the film web. Preferably, the end face could comprise at least one recess and / or at least one connecting surface, in particular a connecting surface with a recess. The recess and / or the connecting surface would allow the tubular bag to be hung. The tubular bag is laterally bounded by two secondary connections that link the bottom and top ends. These secondary connections form the sides of the tubular bag, thus sealing it. The secondary connections are formed by compressing the tubular bag and then bonding the compressed sections together. Preferably, the secondary connections run parallel to each other and / or at a right angle to the top and / or bottom ends. However, for a more visually appealing design, it is also conceivable that the secondary connections run at an angle to each other and / or to the top and bottom ends. Depending on the orientation of the tubular bag, the secondary connection is preferably a transverse or longitudinal connection.Furthermore, the terms "first compound" and "second compound" do not define a production sequence. In particular, it is also conceivable that one or more of the second compounds are produced before the first compound. The second, material-bonded bonds are preferably created by applying heat, whereby the material of the film or of a single layer or layers of the film is at least partially melted and brought into contact with each other, particularly under pressure. The second bonds are especially preferably produced by sealing or welding the film. To allow the tubular bag to be closed after opening, the tubular bag includes a flap formed in the flange of the first connection. The flap is formed by a cut and / or a perforation in the flange. The cut and / or perforation is produced by a laser. The flange is not connected to the tubular bag, at least in the area of ​​the flap; at least one edge of the flange remains connected to the tubular bag. Preferably, the cut and / or perforation runs parallel to the first connection and / or completely within the flange. This secures the flap to the tubular bag at both ends. According to the invention, the flap is intended to receive and fix the opened end of the tubular bag after it has been folded, crumpled, and / or rolled.Preferably, the top edge is folded into a triangle or trapezoid and then folded to the side to secure the triangle or trapezoid in the flap. It has been shown that clamping the top edge under the flap provides sufficient friction in most applications to prevent the tubular bag from opening. It is conceivable to further secure the closure by additional measures, such as applying an adhesive strip. According to the invention, the top edge is opened and secured by means of the flap; however, it is alternatively conceivable to open and secure the bottom edge in the same manner. Using a laser to create the cut and / or perforation has the advantage of making production cost-effective, simple, and precise. The cut and / or perforation can be made before, during, and / or after the formation of the flap.Preferably, the flap extends over at least 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, or 95% of the flap's width and / or a maximum of 95%, 90%, 85%, 80%, 75%, 70%, 65%, 60%, 55%, 50%, 45%, 40%, 35%, 30%, 25%, 20%, 15%, 10%, and / or 5% of the flap's width. Particularly preferably, the flap is fixed to both ends of the tubular bag. The tubular bag can be a block bottom bag, a stand-up bottom bag, a pillow bag, a flat bag, a sealed edge bag and / or a side gusset bag. Essentially, the intended use of a tubular bag is arbitrary. It is particularly suitable for bulk goods, especially in the food industry. In this sector, a portion of the contents is often dispensed, while the remaining contents are protected from spillage and insect ingress by sealing the tubular bag. The bulk goods can be enclosed during the manufacturing process of the tubular bag. The term "tab" refers to a flat, narrow element used to hold another part of the tubular bag. The various ways in which a tab can be formed are described elsewhere. Using the tubular bag according to the invention, it is possible to provide a tubular bag that is quick, easy, and cost-effective to manufacture and is resealable to protect the contents. Furthermore, the tubular bag is easily recyclable and leak-proof. Advantageous further developments of the invention, which can be implemented individually or in combination, are presented in the dependent claims. In one embodiment, it is conceivable that the tubular bag is printed and / or embossed, and that the print and / or embossing includes a parallel fold line running above the flap and / or at least one fold line starting at one of the second joints and above the flap and extending towards the top. Preferably, the print and / or embossing includes two fold lines, each starting at the second joints and above the flap and extending towards the center of the top. The fold lines simplify and clarify the intended folding of the tubular bag for closing the top. In particular, the embossing makes it easy to create a clean fold for resealing the tubular bag. The print simplifies the communication of the intended function of the flap. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the tubular bag includes at least one third connection and / or at least one fold at the top and / or bottom. The at least one fold and / or the at least one third connection allow the production of the bag types described elsewhere. The tubular bag preferably includes at least two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or ten top folds. More preferably, the tubular bag includes at least two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or ten bottom folds. Even more preferably, the tubular bag includes at least two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or ten third connections. It is particularly conceivable that the at least one fold is incorporated at the bottom, especially to increase stability.The fold is continuous and preferably reinforced by at least one third connection, in particular a longitudinal connection. A W-shaped fold is particularly conceivable, wherein the outward-facing folds are reinforced by two third connections. In this embodiment, the bottom side is the side on which the tubular bag stands during intended use. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the bottom side and / or top side are folded into a block bottom bag in a manner known to those skilled in the art. Particularly preferably, previously formed folds of the bottom side and / or top side are integrated into the second connection in such a way that the folds can no longer unfold. The third connection preferably runs along a fold. The third bond is particularly preferably formed by material bonding. This material bond is further preferably achieved by the application of heat, whereby the material of the film or of a single layer or layers of the film is at least partially melted and brought into contact with one another, particularly under pressure. The third bond is particularly preferably formed by sealing or welding the film. In a further embodiment of the invention, it is conceivable that the tubular bag and / or the flap are made of a film comprising polyethylene (PE), in particular oriented polyethylene film (OPE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), monoaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate (MOPET) and / or biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate (BOPET), polypropylene (PP), in particular oriented polypropylene film (OPP), cast polypropylene (CPP), monoaxially oriented polypropylene (MOPP) and / or biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP), and / or paper, in particular paper with an applied sealing layer. The weight fraction of paper is particularly preferably at least 80%, 85%, 90%, or 95%. The film, tubular bag, and / or flap are also preferably made of a mono-composite. A mono-composite is a composite material in which the individual layers are made of the same material or of chemically similar materials.This allows the production of monocomposites with combinations of features that were previously only achievable through a combination of different materials. Monocomposites are particularly advantageous with regard to recyclability and disposal, enabling the achievement and maintenance of high environmental standards. Furthermore, at least one non-volatile and / or washable substance can be arranged between two or more layers to form an aroma barrier. The proportion of this substance is preferably no more than 5% by weight of the monocomposite, thus preserving its recyclability. More preferably, the substance is a metal or a metal alloy, with the aroma barrier being produced by metallization. Ethyl vinyl alcohol (EVOH), aluminum oxide (ALOX), and / or silicon oxide (SIOX) are particularly preferred substances. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the tubular bag, particularly the flap, includes an individual and / or batch-specific imprint, with the imprint being applied by a laser. This is the same laser that was used to create the cut and / or perforation. Using the laser for both cutting / perforating and printing has the advantage of further reducing the costs of the packaging machine and thus the tubular bag itself. Moreover, the invention recognizes that certain imprints should be applied as accurately and precisely as possible, especially when they relate to assignment and / or identification and / or contain product-specific information. Applying the imprint during the packaging process reduces potential sources of error and is therefore advantageous compared to applying imprints before and after packaging. In a further development of the invention, it is conceivable that the imprint includes a best-before date, a production date, a batch number, and / or a serial number. These imprints are intended to be applied individually and batch by batch, making correct imprinting of great importance. It is assumed that the definitions and / or explanations of the terms mentioned above apply to all aspects described below, unless otherwise stated. Furthermore, features of a flow pack described below in connection with a packaging machine are conceivable embodiments of the flow pack described above. Features of a packaging machine previously described in connection with the flow pack are conceivable embodiments of the packaging machine described below. Furthermore, according to the invention, a packaging machine for producing a tubular bag described elsewhere is proposed, wherein the packaging machine comprises a forming shoulder for forming a tube from a film web, a first longitudinal joining unit for producing a first joint, the first joint comprising a flap, a transverse joining unit for producing at least two second joints, and a lashing device for forming a flap by cutting and / or perforating the flap. The packaging machine is characterized in that the lashing device comprises a laser. The longitudinal joining with the longitudinal joining unit and the transverse joining with the transverse joining unit are performed by material bonding, preferably under the influence of heat and / or pressure. The transverse joining unit is particularly preferably a transverse welding unit and / or a transverse sealing unit.Even more preferred is a longitudinal welding unit and / or a longitudinal sealing unit for the first longitudinal joining unit. The packaging machine produces tubular bags with the advantages described elsewhere. The first longitudinal splicing unit joins the film forming the tubular bag in such a way that it is sealed into a tube by the first connection, creating a flap. The transverse splicing unit applies the second connections transversely to the tube, so that the resulting tubular bags are closed on all sides. The packaging machine is preferably a horizontal or vertical forming and filling machine. The forming shoulder is preferably symmetrical or asymmetrical, depending on the type of bag being produced. The lamination unit creates the flap that allows the produced tubular bag to be resealed, as described elsewhere. The flap is created by the laser, which is part of the lamination unit.For this purpose, the laser cuts and / or perforates the flag of the first connection and / or an area of ​​the foil that will later form the flag. The terms "longitudinal joining unit" and "transverse joining unit" refer to joining units that connect the film web longitudinally or transversely with respect to the film web to create the first or second connections. The term "flashing device" refers to a device that enables the formation, attachment and / or insertion of a flap onto the tubular bag. In one embodiment, the lashing device is conceivable to be positioned before the first longitudinal seam. In this configuration, the laser cuts and / or perforates the flap into an area of ​​the film that will later form the flag. This embodiment is particularly simple because the laser is not obstructed and the film is spread out smoothly. It is conceivable that the laser creates at least two or more cuts and / or perforations, so that both film edge areas that will later form the flag exhibit such a cut and / or perforation. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the packaging machine includes a printing unit for producing a print and / or an embossing unit for producing an embossing. In particular, it is conceivable that the embossing unit is an embossing roller. This allows the advantages of the printing and embossing processes described elsewhere to be achieved. In a further development of the invention, it is conceivable that the packaging machine comprises at least one folding unit and / or at least one second longitudinal joining unit. The at least one folding unit enables one-sided and / or two-sided folding to form the various bag types. Preferably, the packaging machine comprises at least two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or ten folding units. The at least second longitudinal joining unit allows for further longitudinal joins to increase dimensional stability and / or sturdiness. Particularly preferably, the packaging machine comprises at least two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or ten second longitudinal joining units. It is conceivable that the packaging machine includes at least one vertical or horizontal feeding unit. Using this feeding unit, products can be filled directly into the flow packs to be produced. In one embodiment, the laser could be energetically adjustable. This means the energy of the laser beam emitted by the laser could be set. The laser could then be easily used for various types of film and / or packaging material, particularly paper packaging. An alternative or additional setting option is the laser's exposure time to the film. This exposure time can be controlled by the pulse length of the laser beam. Furthermore, it is possible to create a print on the film using the laser by reducing the energy and / or exposure time compared to the cutting and / or perforation modes. This print could include a best-before date, a production date, a batch number, and / or a serial number. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the packaging machine includes a control unit for regulating and / or controlling the packaging machine, wherein the control unit comprises a non-volatile, computer-readable memory and a processor, wherein a computer program is stored in the memory, wherein when the computer program is executed by the processor, the packaging machine is controlled by the control unit in such a way that the film web is formed into a tube by means of the forming shoulder, that the tube is longitudinally joined by means of the first longitudinal joining unit to form the first connection in the form of the flag, and that the tube is transversely joined twice by means of the transverse joining unit to form the tubular bag and to create the at least two second connections.Furthermore, in the flap of the first connection, the tab is formed by a laser-cut and / or laser-perforated section, and / or in at least one area of ​​the film web that will form the flap of the first connection, the tab is formed by a laser-cut and / or laser-perforated section. In this way, the tubular bags can be produced automatically with the packaging machine, and the associated advantages can be achieved. The film web can be advanced intermittently or continuously. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the formation of the second connection occurs simultaneously on two tubular bags, with these tubular bags being separated from each other by a cutting device that can be arranged below or within the cross-connection unit. It is also conceivable that the computer program includes a section that causes the tubular bag to be filled after the formation of the first connection and before the formation of the second. Particularly preferred is the material-bonded joining by sealing and / or welding. The forming shoulder is preferably symmetrical or asymmetrical, depending on the type of bag to be produced. The cutting and / or perforation can be performed before, after, and / or during longitudinal joining. If the cutting and / or perforation is performed before the flag is formed, the film web is preferably cut and / or perforated on both sides in the area that will later form the flag. The laser must be positioned and / or be able to be positioned appropriately. It is conceivable that, when the computer program is executed by the processor, the packaging machine is also controlled by the control unit in such a way that a print is applied to the tubular bag, particularly to the flap, using a laser. The laser can be used for more than one task, resulting in cost reduction. Preferably, the energy and / or the exposure time of the laser is adjusted for this purpose. Particularly preferably, the print includes a best-before date, a production date, a batch number, and / or a serial number. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the computer program includes a section of the computer program which, when executed by the processor, causes a printing unit and / or an embossing unit of the packaging machine, described elsewhere, to print and / or emboss the film, and that the printing and / or embossing includes a fold line running parallel above the flap and / or at least one fold line starting at one of the second joints and extending towards the head side. Preferably, the printing and / or embossing includes two fold lines, each starting at the second joints and above the flap and extending towards the center of the head side. Particularly preferably, the printing of the film takes place before forming at the symmetrical or asymmetrical forming shoulder. The embossing also preferably takes place before forming.Alternatively, the film can be embossed with an embossing roller after being formed into a tube and before filling. Furthermore, the embossing can include perforation at the top of the tubular bag, as described elsewhere. The printing and / or embossing facilitates or clarifies the intended folding of the opened tubular bag. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the computer program includes a section which, when executed by the processor, causes the film and / or the tube, which is longitudinally connected by means of a second longitudinal joining unit to form the first connection, to be folded on one or both sides and / or joined longitudinally a second time. This allows the production of the bag types described elsewhere. The one-sided or two-sided folding preferably occurs before the transverse joining with the transverse joining unit. The at least second longitudinal joining preferably occurs during the first longitudinal joining and / or before the transverse joining. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the computer program includes a section which, when executed by the processor, causes the tube to be filled horizontally or vertically by means of a feeding unit after the formation of the first of the two connections and before the formation of the second of the two connections. This enables simple, fast, and airtight packaging of products. Pourable products, especially pourable foodstuffs, are preferably filled vertically. Divisible unit products, especially divisible unit products such as, but not exclusively, cheese and pastries, are particularly preferably filled horizontally. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the computer program includes a section of the computer program which, when executed by the processor, causes the top and / or bottom of the tubular bag to be folded to produce clean fold edges. Further details, features, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following descriptions of the preferred embodiments in conjunction with the dependent claims. The respective features can be implemented individually or in combination with one another. The invention is not limited to the embodiments. The embodiments are shown schematically in the figures. Identical reference numerals in the individual figures denote identical or functionally equivalent elements, or elements that correspond to one another with respect to their function. Specifically, the figures show: Fig. 1 a perspective view of a tubular bag according to the invention in its unopened state; Fig. 2 the process of opening the tubular bag according to the invention; Fig. 3 the process of removing products from the tubular bag according to the invention; Fig. 4 the process of a first folding of the tubular bag according to the invention; Fig. 5 the process of a second folding of the tubular bag according to the invention; Fig. 6 the process of a third folding of the tubular bag according to the invention; Fig. 7 the process of preparing the tubular bag according to the invention for closing; Fig. 8 the process of closing the tubular bag according to the invention; Fig. 9 a first perspective view of a closed tubular bag according to the invention; Fig. 10 a second perspective view of a closed tubular bag according to the invention; Fig.Fig. 11 shows a perspective view of an unopened tubular bag designed as a stand-up pouch; Fig. 12 shows a perspective view of an unopened tubular bag designed as a pillow bag; Fig. 13 shows a flowchart of a computer program stored on a non-volatile, computer-readable memory of a packaging machine 10 according to the invention; Fig. 14A shows a perspective view of a part of a packaging machine according to the invention; and Fig. 14B shows a perspective view of the packaging machine according to the invention. Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a tubular bag 1 according to the invention in its unopened state. The tubular bag 1 has a top side 2 and a bottom side 3 opposite the top side 2. The bottom side 3 is folded in a known manner, so that the tubular bag 1 is designed as a stand-up pouch.Since the tubular bag 1 is manufactured from a film web, it has a first connection 4 where the film web has been longitudinally joined. Laterally, the head end 2 and the bottom end 3 are connected by two second connections 5, designed as transverse connections, which close off the tubular bag 1. The longitudinal joining process is carried out such that the film webs are placed on top of each other with the side forming the inside of the tubular bag according to the invention facing each other. In this way, a flap is formed. A slit 6 is made centrally in the flap, creating a tab 7. The slit 6 is approximately half the width of the tubular bag 1. The slit 6 is made using a laser. Fig. 2 shows the process of opening the tubular bag 1 according to the invention. The tubular bag 1 is cut open at the head end 2 with scissors.It is also conceivable that the tubular bag 1 has a perforation (not shown) at the top 2, which allows the tubular bag 1 to be easily torn open. Likewise, the tubular bag 1 can have a tear tab at the top 2. Fig. 3 shows the process of removing products from the tubular bag 1. For this purpose, the tubular bag 1 is tilted to the side so that products (not shown) can fall out of the open top 2 of the tubular bag 1. It is also conceivable to remove the products from the tubular bag 1 by inserting a hand into it. Fig. 4 shows the process of a first fold of the tubular bag 1. For this, a first corner at the top 2 is folded from the second connection 5 towards the center of the top 2 in the direction of the first connection 4.This process can be explained by a printed (not shown) fold line on the tubular bag 1 and / or simplified by an embossed (not shown) marking. The fold serves to allow the tubular bag 1 to be closed. The fold is made at an angle of approximately 45°. Depending on the distance of the flap 7, steeper or more acute angles are conceivable. Fig. 5 shows the process of a second fold of the tubular bag 1. The second corner of the head end 2 is folded over, starting from the second connection 5 and moving towards the first connection 4. The second fold also extends to approximately the middle of the head end 2. In this case, the fold is made at an angle of approximately 45°. The first and second folds form a trapezoid at the head end 2. Fig. 6 shows the process of a third fold of the tubular bag 1. The trapezoid formed by the first and second folds at the head end 2 is folded over with its point towards the flap 7.This fold can also be explained by a print and / or simplified by embossing. Fig. 7 shows the process of preparing to close the tubular bag 1. The short side of the trapezoid formed by the fold at the head 2 of the tubular bag 1 is guided towards the flap 7. Fig. 8 shows the process of closing the tubular bag 1. To close the tubular bag 1, the short side of the trapezoid is pulled under the flap 7. Through friction and positive locking, the head 2 is held in its folded and folded position in the flap 7, preventing the tubular bag 1 from opening. Partially opening the first and second folds in the flap 7 further supports the closure of the tubular bag 1. The tubular bag 1 can be opened at any time by pulling the trapezoid out of the flap 7. Resealing is still possible in the same simple way as described above.Besides the trapezoidal shape, it is conceivable to fold the head end 2 into a triangular shape, in which the first two folds meet or partially overlap in the middle of the head end. Depending on where the flap 7 is positioned, it is also conceivable to omit one of the two folds. If the flap 7 extends over the entire width of the tubular bag 1, it is also conceivable to achieve the closure without the first two folds by inserting the head end 2 under the flap 7 without prior folding. Figures 9 and 10 each show a perspective view of the closed tubular bag 1. The head end 2 was shaped by folding in such a way that a point could be pulled through the flap 7. The flap 7 is formed by a slit 6 in the flap. Since this is a stand-up pouch, the closed tubular bag 1 can stand on its bottom side 3 when closed.Figure 11 shows a perspective view of an unopened tubular bag 1, designed as a stand-up pouch. The tubular bag 1 comprises a top side 2 and an opposite bottom side 3. A first connection 4, which includes a flap, runs centrally between the top side 2 and the bottom side 3. The flap has a tab 7 shaped as a notch 6. Extending laterally from the bottom side 3 to the top side 2, the tubular bag 1 has two second connections 5, which complete the tubular bag 1. On the bottom side 3, a fold 2 is formed with outward-facing folds 8 and an inward-facing fold 8, which is held in shape by the second connections 5. Additionally, a third connection 9 is arranged on each of the outward-facing folds 8 and on the top side 2. Figure 12 shows a perspective view of an unopened tubular bag 1, designed as a pillow bag.The tubular bag 1 comprises a head end 2 and an opposite bottom end 3. A first connection 4, which includes a flap, runs between the head end 2 and the bottom end 3. The flap has a tab 7 shaped as a notch 6. The tubular bag 1 is completed by two second connections 5, each arranged laterally on the tubular bag 1 between the head end 2 and the bottom end 3. The tubular bag 1 has a fold with pleats 8 on both the bottom end 2 and the head end 1, which are partially unfolded to form the pillow bag. Fig. 13 shows a flowchart of a computer program stored on a non-volatile, computer-readable memory of a packaging machine 10 according to the invention (see Fig. 14B). The computer program has program sections which, when executed by a processor, cause the packaging machine to perform the following steps.In a first step (100), a sheet of film is laser-cut on both sides in an area that will later form a flap. In a second step (200), the film is formed into a tube over a forming shoulder. In a subsequent third step (300), the tube is longitudinally joined using a first longitudinal connection unit, creating a flap formed by the cuts. Then, in a fourth step (400), a first transverse connection, which is the second connection of the tubular bag, is created using a transverse connection unit, forming a fabric seam. The production step for the first transverse connection can also be the production step for a second transverse connection of a tubular bag produced immediately beforehand. The tubular bag is filled during and / or after the production of the first transverse connection.Finally, in a fifth step 500, a second cross-seam, which is also a second connection of the tubular bag, is produced by means of the cross-seam unit, forming a fabric bond. The production step of the second cross-seam can also be the production step of a first cross-seam of a tubular bag produced immediately afterward. After and / or during the production of the cross-seam, the tubular bags are separated. Fig. 14A shows a perspective view of a part of a packaging machine 10 according to the invention, and Fig. 14B shows a perspective view of the packaging machine 10 according to the invention as a whole, wherein the part shown in Fig. 14A is arranged at the front in a housing and is concealed by it. In the packaging machine according to the invention, a film web 11 is first cut on both sides in the area of ​​the edges by a lamination device 13 designed as a laser.In Fig. 14B, the laser has been pulled out of the packaging machine so that it is more visible. The laser also applies a print to the film web 11. The film web 11 is drawn over a symmetrical forming shoulder 12 and formed into a tube with overlapping edges. These overlapping edges are then joined together by a first longitudinal joining unit 14, forming a first connection such that the film web 11 forms a tube. This first connection creates a flap. The laser-cut notches lie within the flap, forming a tab. A transverse joining unit 15 connects the tube transversely, forming a second connection that is part of both a finished tubular bag and a tubular bag currently being manufactured. A fold created on the bottom side by a folding unit 16 is also secured by the transverse joining unit 15.The tubular bag currently being manufactured is filled during and / or after the formation of the second connection by means of a vertical feeding unit 17. The packaging machine is controlled and / or regulated by a control unit 18. The control unit 18 comprises non-volatile, computer-readable memory and a processor. The computer program is stored in the non-volatile, computer-readable memory, and the computer program contains program sections which, when executed by the processor, cause the packaging machine to perform the process shown in Fig. 13. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature DE 20 2018 106 482 U1

[0003] DE 69 303 472 T2

[0005]

Claims

Tubular bag (1) comprising a head side (2) and a bottom side (3) extending parallel to the head side (2), wherein the tubular bag (1) comprises a first connection (4) extending parallel to the head side (2) and to the bottom side (3), wherein the first connection (4) is formed by material bonding, and wherein the tubular bag (1) comprises at least two lateral second connections (5) connecting the head side (2) to the bottom side (3), wherein the second connections (5) are formed by material bonding, wherein the first connection (4) comprises a flap and wherein a tab (7) is formed by a cut (6) and / or a perforation in the flap, characterized in that the cut (6) and / or the perforation has been carried out by a laser. Tubular bag (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the tubular bag (1) is printed and / or embossed and the printing and / or embossing comprises a fold line running parallel above the flap (7) and / or at least one fold line starting at one of the first connections (5) and above the flap (7) and extending towards the head side (2). Tubular bag (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the tubular bag (1) comprises at least one third connection and / or at least one fold at the head side (2) and / or at the bottom side (3). Tubular bag (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the tubular bag (1) and / or the flap (7) is made of a film comprising polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and / or paper. Tubular bag (1) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the tubular bag (1), in particular the flap (7), comprises an individual and / or batch-specific imprint, wherein the imprint is applied by laser. Tubular bag according to claim 5, characterized in that the imprint includes a best before date, a production date, a batch number and / or a serial number. Packaging machine (10) for producing a tubular bag (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the packaging machine (10) comprises a forming shoulder (12) for forming a tube from a film web (11), a first longitudinal joining unit (14) for producing a first joint (4), wherein the first joint comprises a flap, a transverse joining unit (15) for producing two second joints (5) of the tube and a lashing means (13) for forming a flap (7) by cutting and / or perforating the flap, characterized in that the lashing means (13) comprises a laser. Packaging machine (10) according to claim 7, characterized in that the lashing means (13) is arranged in front of the first longitudinal joining unit (14). Packaging machine (10) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the packaging machine (10) comprises a printing unit for producing a print and / or an embossing unit for producing an embossing. Packaging machine (10) according to one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that the packaging machine (10) comprises at least one folding unit (16) and / or a second longitudinal joining unit. Packaging machine (10) according to one of claims 7 to 10, characterized in that the packaging machine (10) comprises at least one vertical or horizontal feeding unit (17). Packaging machine (10) according to one of claims 7 to 11, characterized in that the laser is energetically adjustable. Packaging machine (10) according to one of claims 7 to 12, wherein the packaging machine (10) comprises a control unit (18) for regulating and / or controlling the packaging machine (10), wherein the control unit (18) comprises a non-volatile, computer-readable memory and a processor, wherein a computer program is stored in the memory, wherein, when the computer program is executed by the processor, the packaging machine (7) is controlled by the control unit (18) such that the film web (11) is formed into a tube by means of the forming shoulder (12), that the tube is longitudinally joined by means of the first longitudinal joining unit (14) to form the first connection (4) in the form of the flap, and that the tube is transversely joined twice by means of the transverse joining unit (15) to form the tubular bag (1) to create the at least two second connections (5), characterized in thatthat in the flag of the first connection (4) the tab (7) is formed by a laser-cut and / or laser-perforated section and / or that in at least one area of ​​the film web (11) that will form the flag of the first connection (4), the tab (7) is formed by a laser-cut and / or laser-perforated section. Packaging machine (10) according to claim 13, characterized in that when the computer program is executed by the processor, the packaging machine (1) is also controlled by the control unit (18) in such a way that a print is applied to the tubular bag (1), in particular to the flap (7), by means of the laser. Packaging machine (10) according to claim 14, characterized in that the imprint includes a best before date, a production date, a batch number and / or a serial number.

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