Device for Spreading a Foil Web

Abstract

A device for spreading foil webs, with the device guiding apart the strips of a foil web that has been separated into at least two web sections in such a way that at least two packages can be packed, i.e. in particular wrapped, simultaneously in parallel next to each other. The foil web that has been separated into at least two web sections is guided over at least two adjustable bodies, said bodies including microopenings at least in the area whereover the foil is guided, with said microopenings being impingeable with compressed air. Preferably, the bodies can be arranged at an angle relative to one another. A method is also provided for separating and guiding the foil web, which has been split into at least two web sections, by a device wherein the described foil web is guided over bodies that are at least adjustable and impingeable with compressed air. According to the invention, the foil web is held at a distance from the said bodies with the aid of a multitude of fine-pored openings that are impingeable with compressed air.

Description

[0001]This claims the benefit of German Patent Application DE 10 2009 026 059.5, filed Jun. 29, 2009 incorporated by reference herein.[0002]The present invention relates to a device for spreading a split foil web as well as an appropriate method.BACKGROUND[0003]In the packaging industry, packages are often conveyed through appropriate packaging machines for the (outer) packaging of said packages by means of multi-lane conveyors. In particular, at least two packages at a time are parallely wrapped up, at least partially, in packaging foil during a single enveloping process. For this purpose it is necessary to split the packaging foil web, which is usually available as a single web, into at least two web sections by means of a cutting device and a spreading device located downstream from said cutting device. The provided wide foil web is split into at least two halves in this way, and the said two halves are positioned at an adequate distance from each other so that it is possible to ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a device for spreading and guiding split strip and foil material in a packaging machine with easy handling, reliable operation, and energy-saving capabilities. The device includes at least two adjustable bodies made of fine porous material, which can be impingeable with compressed air. The foil web is guided over the bodies and separated into at least two web sections, which can be packed simultaneously in parallel next to each other. The invention also includes a method for separating and guiding the foil web using the described device. The use of the aerostatic bearing system reduces air and energy consumption compared to other systems. Overall, the invention improves the efficiency and reliability of the packaging process.

Problems solved by technology

This variant, however, has the disadvantage that the foil becomes electrostatically charged and can only be slightly spread apart, typically resulting an a foil spacing of no more than approximately 30 mm.

The systems described are generally disadvantageous in that they require a system for compressed air.

In addition, the stabilization and conveyance of the foil sections by compressed air result in a relatively high consumption of compressed air, necessitating a relatively high energy input for producing the said compressed air.

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