Packaging machine and operating method

Abstract

A packaging machine (1) for filling products into bags, comprising a bag reserve device (2), a filling module (100) with filling spouts (101) and a bag removal device (3). Wherein the bag reserve device and the bag removal device are arranged along a line (12) and the filling module is arranged offset from the line (12). In a method for operating the packaging machine, bags from the bag reserve device (2) are transferred from the line (12) to the filling module (100) and, after filling, are transferred back to the line (12) and to the bag removal device.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The invention relates to a packaging machine for filling bulk material into bag pieces, comprising at least one bag reserve device, at least one filling module with at least one filling nozzle and at least one bag removal device. The invention also relates to a method for operating such a packaging machine. BACKGROUND

[0002] For filling bulk material into containers, in particular for filling pourable and / or loose products into bag pieces, a wide variety of devices and methods are known from the prior art.

[0003] Among others, there are different and partly special solutions for filling open bags and valve bags. Efficiency also plays an important role in the type of device and the filling method.

[0004] For example, known rotary packaging devices or packaging machines have a plurality of circumferentially arranged filling modules, each with a filling nozzle. For filling a bag piece, the bag piece is inserted into or closed to a specific position of the filling nozzle. During the rotation of the packaging machine, the bag is filled, compacted, sealed and removed at another position, depending on the design.

[0005] It is also known that packaging devices or packaging machines are arranged in a basically linear manner, in which the bags to be filled are taken, for example, from a bag pile, transferred to the filling module and filled, and then removed.

[0006] Such devices are generally reliable in function and can be selected from a number of possible configurations as required and desired.

[0007] However, there is still a need for alternative solutions, since the known packaging machines are not always suitable for the available space already present and are often not flexible enough to adapt to the product to be filled. The maintenance costs are sometimes also high, since the known packaging machines usually have a very compact and partly fixed installation in order to keep the space requirement as small as possible. SUMMARY

[0008] It was therefore the task of the present invention to provide a packaging machine which can be used flexibly or, for example, adapted modularly.

[0009] This task is solved by a packaging machine having the features of claim 1 and by a method for operating a packaging machine having the features of claim 19. Preferred further developments of the invention are subject matter of the dependent claims. Further advantages and features of the invention are apparent from the description of the general description and the embodiments.

[0010] The packaging machine according to the application is suitable for filling products, in particular bulk material, into bag pieces and comprises at least one bag storage device, at least one filling module with at least one filling spout and at least one bag removal device. The bag storage device and the bag removal device are thus arranged along a line and the filling module is arranged offset from the line.

[0011] Here, in particular, the individual components or modules are designed in a T-shaped arrangement relative to one another. In particular, the bag storage device and the bag removal device of the bag pieces are arranged along a line.

[0012] By such an arrangement, it is preferably possible to assign any one of the filling modules to the remaining components or modules of the packaging machine without major conversion work or complex configuration. Furthermore, a flexible and also particularly compact packaging machine is provided by the T-shaped arrangement.

[0013] The bag storage device is in particular a module or component which preferably comprises a number of prefabricated bags, for example stored in a magazine or on a bag stack, which can thus be individually picked up by a transfer device. Depending on the design, the bag storage device can also comprise or be provided by a bag-making device.

[0014] It is particularly preferred that the packaging machine is suitable and designed for filling bulk material into open-mouth bags.

[0015] It goes without saying that even though the application is described in connection with the filling of bulk material, the packaging machine according to the application can also be used for filling pasty and / or liquid products into bags and is also covered by the scope of protection.

[0016] The bag removal device preferably comprises at least one conveyor belt, by means of which the filled and sealed bags can be removed. In order to seal the filled bags, at least one sealing station is provided, which is preferably assigned to the bag removal device.

[0017] The packaging machine according to the application offers a number of advantages. A considerable advantage is that the T-shaped arrangement of the filling modules relative to the remaining components or modules of the packaging machine makes it possible to provide a particularly compact and small-sized packaging machine, in which the filling modules arranged side by side can be selected and arranged flexibly according to requirements. In particular, standard components can also be used, so that existing filling modules can also be integrated into the packaging machine according to the application.

[0018] It is preferably also possible to separate and remove the filling modules from the other components or modules with little effort, so that maintenance work is reduced.

[0019] In known in-line apparatuses, i.e. apparatuses in which all modules are arranged in a line, it can be difficult to arrange the filling technology in line due to space reasons, in particular in designs with air-filling modules. Furthermore, the operability or maintainability can become more difficult. This is substantially improved by the packaging machine or arrangement according to the application.

[0020] It is preferred that at least one transfer device is arranged between the bag reserve device and the bag removal device along the line, wherein the filling module is arranged next to the transfer device.

[0021] It is particularly preferred that the transfer device is adapted and designed to transfer empty bag pieces from the bag reserve device to the filling nozzle and to take filled bag pieces from the filling nozzle and to transfer them to the bag removal device.

[0022] The transfer device preferably comprises at least one first gripping device for transferring empty bags from the bag reserve device to the filling nozzle and at least one second gripping device for taking filled bags from the filling nozzle and transferring them to the bag removal device. By such a design, the transfer of empty and filled bags can be reliably realized by means of the gripping devices.

[0023] It is preferred that the filling module can also be separated and removed from other components or modules with little effort, thus reducing the maintenance work.

[0024] It is particularly preferred that the first gripping device for transporting empty bag pieces and the second gripping device for transporting filled bag pieces are arranged to different sides of the transfer device. By such a design, different handling steps of the transfer device can be carried out in parallel. In particular, it is possible to work on different sides of the transfer device at the same time, whereby it is possible to take empty bags from the bag reserve device on the one hand and to take filled bags from the filling nozzle on the other hand, and / or to hang empty bags to the filling nozzle and to supply a filled bag to the bag removal device at the same time.

[0025] In an advantageous further development, the first gripping device for transporting empty bags and the second gripping device for transferring filled bags are arranged at the transfer device at an angle of 60° to 120° to each other, preferably at an angle of 80° to 100°, in particular at an angle of 90°. Thereby, it is possible to transfer filled bags and empty bags in parallel. Depending on the different designs, other angles of each other can also be advantageously chosen, for example when the bag reserve device and the bag removal device are arranged at an angle to each other but not in a straight line.

[0026] In a preferred design, the transfer device is arranged at least partially rotatably and / or pivotably. Thereby, the transfer device comprises at least one swivelable component or a column, on which the clamping devices are arranged, inter alia. In this way, the empty bag can be brought from the bag reserve device to the filling nozzle and the filled bag from the filling nozzle to the bag removal device by swiveling of the transfer device or the column. This is achieved, inter alia., by a reciprocating displacement or a reciprocating swiveling of the transfer device or the column.

[0027] It is particularly preferred that the transfer device or at least a part thereof is swivelable between 60° and 120°, preferably between 80° and 100°, in particular by 90°. In this way, a bag can be brought out of the line by 180° by arranging the clamping devices on different sides and by swiveling the bag, for example, by 90° each time, and then again into the line. This is done in such a way that the first clamping device is first swiveled by 90° in one direction and the empty bag is hung on the filling nozzle. Then the transfer device is swiveled in the opposite direction so that the second clamping device comes into contact with the filled bag on the filling nozzle. By swiveling again by 90° in the opposite direction, the bag is fed to the bag removal device. Here, too, it can be advantageous to set smaller or larger angles, for example, when the bag reserve device and the bag removal device are arranged at an angle to each other but not in a straight line.

[0028] It is particularly preferred that the transfer device is at least partially displaceably arranged. Displaceable here means, inter alia., movable, wherein preferably longitudinal displacement and / or transverse displacement can be achieved. In particular, the transfer device can also be designed to run along a rail or to be suspended in a rail and / or to be designed to move in other ways in order to be moved out of the arrangement or line of the bag reserve device and the bag removal device transversely thereto or in the direction thereof or in the arrangement line of the bag reserve device and the bag removal device. Here, the transfer device is in particular displaced out of the arrangement relative to the line in order to provide sufficient access to the filling module, inter alia., for maintenance work. By displacing the transfer device, sufficient space is provided to move between the transfer device, the bag reserve device, the bag removal device and the filling module so that all components can be reached well. In particular when two filling modules, which are optionally operated by the transfer device, are arranged side by side, the transfer device can also be arranged displaceably, displaceably or movably along the line or in the direction from the bag reserve device to the bag removal device or vice versa in order to always arrange it in front of the filling module which is not to be maintained or is to be used at the moment.

[0029] It is preferred that the first clamping device for taking up an empty bag piece is arranged displaceably. Thereby, the clamping device is preferably at least partially movable back and forth in order to take up an empty bag piece from the bag reserve device and to bring it into contact with the filling nozzle after the swiveling of the transfer device. Thereby, the first clamping device can be designed, for example, to be swivelable or displaceable forward and back again or can also be designed to be telescopic.

[0030] In a suitable refinement, the first gripping device comprises at least two gripping arms, which can be displaced in particular relative to one another. In particular, these gripping arms can be brought together or moved apart here, thus providing a kind of clamp for taking an open empty bag from the bag reserve device and for free transport or transfer to the filling module in order to hang the open bag to the filling spout.

[0031] In an advantageous further refinement, the second gripping device for transporting the full bag is designed to be at least partially movable. In particular, the second gripping device can be moved forwards and backwards here. To this end, for example, the second gripping device can be designed as a parallelogram structure.

[0032] Preferably, the second gripping device comprises at least one clamping mechanism. Such a clamping mechanism can be designed here to take the full bag from the filling spout, while in particular pressing the still open bag walls together, so that the bag walls are superimposed on one another for the subsequent closure.

[0033] Preferably, at least one cleaning device is assigned to the second gripping device. The cleaning device is used here to clean the area of the filled bag, on which the head seam is subsequently provided.

[0034] The cleaning device preferably comprises at least one air blower with at least one first nozzle mechanism and at least one second nozzle mechanism, via which at least one jet of air can be directed at least temporarily, respectively. Preferably, the first nozzle mechanism has a fixed blowing direction, while the second nozzle mechanism also has a fixed blowing direction. The blowing directions of the first nozzle mechanism and the second nozzle are different from one another here. Furthermore, at least one control device is preferably provided, which is adapted and designed to control the at least one first nozzle mechanism and the at least one second nozzle mechanism at least temporarily offset in time.

[0035] The nozzles can thus preferably be provided by or comprise any known and expediently used nozzle type. For example, the nozzles can also be provided by or comprise simple openings or holes, via which a jet of air or a jet of liquid can be spilled. In particular, such openings can also be designed as slits, so that such elongate nozzles can be used to clean longer sections with air at a time.

[0036] Due to the different blowing directions of the first nozzle mechanism and the second nozzle mechanism and depending on the design of each other nozzle mechanism and by time offset or different actuation of the nozzles with components having static nozzles, air movements can be simulated in particular, which imitate moving nozzles or oscillating air jets. An effective cleaning of the work section can thus be ensured without having to use movable parts, which are both costly to manufacture and to maintain.

[0037] By means of this design of the cleaning device, the air jets acting when the bag opening edges are cleaned by means of the active air flow open the bag walls or film layers lying on top of one another before the closed or welded filled bags, so that the air jets hit the inner surface, whereby adhering dust or dirt particles are removed. By means of a change in the air jets, the layers folded to the side are preferably separated from one another in the case of a correspondingly designed bag, so that this area is cleaned. These film layers are peeled off approximately one after the other by means of the moving or oscillating air flow and cleaned by means of the air flow thus entering.

[0038] In addition, more complex air flows can be generated on the part to be cleaned by means of simple and / or complex wave movements in addition to the simulation of simple air flow oscillations.

[0039] The different types of nozzles can be controlled individually and / or also in groups in order to generate suitable air movements.

[0040] These nozzle arrangements can be arranged in particular along the blow plate, wherein groups of the nozzle arrangements of these rows or of different rows can be supplied with air separately in order to obtain advantageous air flows or air movements.

[0041] It is particularly preferred that the bag storage device, the filling module, the bag removal device and / or the transfer device are arranged partially in at least one housing device. Here, a common cover plate or housing device is preferably provided. However, these modules can also be arranged individually or in groups in separate housing devices according to the design. Here, such housing devices are designed in particular to be substantially dustproof and / or airtight, so that an airtight seal of the entire packaging machine is preferably also possible.

[0042] At least two filling modules are preferably provided. Here, it is in particular provided that only one filling module is used at a time. Different properties can thus be provided in particular at the filling modules, allowing for example a quick change of products on the packaging machine. For this purpose, it is in particular provided that the transfer device is movable or displaceable at least in the longitudinal direction of the packaging machine or in the line of the bag storage device and the bag removal device, so that the transfer device can be moved in front of the respective filling module to be used. For this purpose, the filling modules are in particular arranged next to one another.

[0043] If at least two filling modules are arranged next to one another, the transfer device is preferably designed and set up for taking an empty bag from the bag storage device and for delivering a filled bag to the bag removal device, regardless of which filling module the transfer device is located in front of. For this purpose, the distance between the transfer device and the bag storage device and the bag removal device can be bridged independently of the position of the transfer device, for example by means of clamping devices which can be displaced accordingly. Preferably, the two filling modules can also work alternately, for example with an empty bag being hung on the first filling module and a filled bag being taken from the second filling module.

[0044] The method according to the application is suitable for operating a packaging machine as described before. Thereby, the bag pieces from the bag reserve device are moved out of the line arranged by the bag reserve device and the bag removal device to the filling module and, after filling, are turned back to the line and are transported to the bag removal device.

[0045] The method according to the application also provides advantages for a packaging machine as described before. In particular, it is made possible by the method according to the application to provide a packaging machine of T-shaped arrangement, wherein in particular the remaining components or modules of a packaging machine can be arranged with any filling module arranged side by side in a line.

[0046] Preferably, the method is preferably characterized by the following steps in the appropriate number, in the appropriate order and / or in combination:

[0047] a) taking one empty bag piece by the first gripping device (5)

[0048] b) rotating the transport device (4) until the first gripping device (5) is in active engagement with the filling module (100)

[0049] c) delivering the empty bag piece to the filling nozzle (101)

[0050] d) rotating the transport device (4) until the first gripping device (5) is in active engagement with the bag reserve device (2)

[0051] e) rotating the transport device (4) until the second gripping device (6) is in active engagement with the filling module (100) or the filled bag piece

[0052] f) taking the filled bag piece by the second gripping device (6)

[0053] g) rotating the transport device (4) until the second gripping device with the filled bag piece is in active connection with the bag removal device

[0054] h) handing over the bag piece to the bag removal device.

[0055] Preferably, steps a) and f), b) and g), c) and h) and / or d) and e) are performed in parallel or simultaneously. Thereby, it is particularly preferred that at least temporarily one new empty bag piece is taken by the first gripping device and is delivered to the filling nozzle while one filled bag piece is taken by the second gripping device from the filling nozzle and is transported in the direction of the bag removal device. Thus, the packaging machine can be operated in parallel and thus with a higher throughput.

[0056] Particularly preferred is the presence of at least two filling modules, with the transfer device moved to the front of the filling module to be used. Thus, as previously exemplified, rapid product changeover can be performed on a single machine, since different filling modules can be mounted in parallel on the machine. Alternatively, to increase the overall output of the packaging machine, especially when filling products that remain at the filling nozzle for a longer period each time for compaction or degassing, it is preferable to use the same filling modules and the same products.

[0057] Another method according to the invention is suitable for maintaining the packaging machine as described above. Here, the transfer device is moved to at least release the filling module. By moving the transfer device, sufficient space is provided between the different components in the packaging machine for the user or maintenance personnel, allowing for particularly simple and therefore reliable and time-saving maintenance of all parts. In addition to easier access to the filling module, all other components, particularly the bag storage device and bag delivery device, as well as the transfer device side facing the filling module, are also more easily accessible.

[0058] A particularly preferred arrangement is one that is transverse to the bag storage device and the bag delivery device, or a linear transfer device. This is especially advantageous when only one filling module is used and a very compact arrangement of several components is specified.

[0059] In a particularly preferred design, two filling modules are provided, wherein the transfer device moves inline or longitudinally between the bag storage device and the bag delivery device. Specifically, the transfer device is moved in front of the filling module that should not be maintained and / or is about to be used for filling. Attached Figure Description

[0060] Further advantages and features of the present invention are derived from embodiments, which will be explained below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0061] The attached diagram shows:

[0062] Figure 1 A purely schematic view of an embodiment of the packaging machine according to the present invention is shown in perspective.

[0063] Figure 2 Another purely schematic view of an embodiment of the packaging machine according to the present invention is shown in perspective.

[0064] Figure 3 The following purely schematic view, in perspective view, illustrates an embodiment of the packaging machine according to the present invention;

[0065] Figure 4 A purely schematic view of an embodiment of the packaging machine according to the present invention is shown in front view;

[0066] Figure 5Figure with view from the side of the bag delivery device, showing a purely schematic view of an embodiment of the packaging machine according to the application;

[0067] Figure 6 Figure with view from the side of the bag delivery device, showing a further purely schematic view of an embodiment of the packaging machine according to the application;

[0068] Figure 7 Figure with view from the side of the bag delivery device, showing a next purely schematic view of an embodiment of the packaging machine according to the application;

[0069] Figure 8 Figure with view from the side of the bag delivery device, showing a further purely schematic view of an embodiment of the packaging machine according to the application;

[0070] Figure 9 Figure with view from the side of the bag delivery device, showing a purely schematic view of an embodiment of the packaging machine according to the application;

[0071] Figure 10 Figure with view from the side of the bag delivery device, showing a purely schematic view of an embodiment of the packaging machine according to the application;

[0072] Figure 11 Figure with view from the side of the bag delivery device, showing a further purely schematic view of an embodiment of the packaging machine according to the application;

[0073] Figure 12 Figure with view from the side of the bag delivery device, showing a purely schematic view of an embodiment of the packaging machine according to the application; Figure 11 Figure with view from the side of the bag delivery device, showing a perspective view of a view with removed transfer device;

[0074] Figure 13 Figure with view from the side of the bag delivery device, showing a purely schematic view of an embodiment of the packaging machine according to the application;

[0075] Figure 14 Figure with view from the side of the bag delivery device, showing a perspective view of a view with removed transfer device; Figure 13 Figure with view from the side of the bag delivery device, showing a perspective view of a view with removed transfer device;

[0076] Figure 15 Figure with view from the side of the bag delivery device, showing a further purely schematic view of an embodiment of the packaging machine according to the application;

[0077] Figure 16 Figure with view from the side of the bag delivery device, showing a perspective view of a view with removed transfer device; Figure 15 Figure with view from the side of the bag delivery device, showing a perspective view of a view with removed transfer device;

[0078] Figure 17 Figure with view from the side of the bag delivery device, showing a perspective view of a view with removed transfer device; Figure 15 Figure with view from the side of the bag delivery device, showing a perspective view of a view with removed transfer device;

[0079] Figure 18 Figure with view from the side of the bag delivery device, showing a perspective view of a view with removed transfer device; Figure 17 Figure with view from the side of the bag delivery device, showing a perspective view of a view with removed transfer device;

[0080] Figure 19is a purely schematic view in perspective of an embodiment of a transport device with a cleaning device according to the application;

[0081] Figure 20 is a purely schematic view in perspective of a cleaning device according to the application;

[0082] Figure 21 is a further purely schematic view in perspective of a cleaning device according to the application;

[0083] Figure 22 is a next purely schematic view in perspective of a cleaning device according to the application;

[0084] Figure 23 is a further purely schematic view in perspective of a cleaning device according to the application;

[0085] Figure 24 is a further purely schematic view in perspective of a cleaning device according to the application;

[0086] Figure 25 is a purely schematic view in front view of an embodiment of a transport device and a bag removal device;

[0087] Figure 26 is a further purely schematic view in front view of an embodiment of a transport device and a bag removal device;

[0088] Figure 27 is a next purely schematic view in front view of an embodiment of a transport device and a bag removal device;

[0089] Figure 28 is Figure 26 , 27 and 28 in cross-section;

[0090] Figure 29 is a next embodiment of a packaging machine according to the application in perspective view;

[0091] Figure 30 is an embodiment according to Figure 29 in front view;

[0092] Figure 31 is an embodiment according to Figure 29 in rear view;

[0093] Figure 32 is an embodiment according to Figure 29 in top view; and

[0094] Figure 33 is an embodiment according to Figure 29 in side view.

[0095] Reference signs

[0096] 1 packing machine 62 row

[0097] 2 bag reserve device 63 suction device

[0098] 3 bag delivery device 64 housing device

[0099] 4 transfer device 65 housing part

[0100] 5 first clamping device 66 baffle

[0101] 6 second clamping device 67 opening

[0102] 7 side 68 suction pipe

[0103] 8 side 69 cover plate

[0104] 9 clamping arm 100 filling module

[0105] 10 clamping mechanism 101 filling nozzle

[0106] 11 housing device 102 housing device

[0107] 12 wire 103 housing panel

[0108] 13 bag making device 104 feed hopper

[0109] 14 film reserve device 105 air filling module

[0110] 15 sealing device 106 pressure chamber

[0111] 16 conveyor belt

[0112] 17 housing panel

[0113] 18 main body

[0114] 19 track

[0115] 20 parallelogram structure

[0116] 21 welding station

[0117] 50 cleaning device

[0118] 51 air blowing plate

[0119] 52 first nozzle

[0120] 53 second nozzle

[0121] 54 third nozzle

[0122] 55 blowing direction

[0123] 56 blowing direction

[0124] 57 blow-off direction

[0125] 58 control device

[0126] 59 air supply tube

[0127] 59a air supply tube

[0128] 60 row

[0129] 61 row DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0130] Figure 1 Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a packaging machine 1 according to the application. In the embodiment shown here, the packaging machine 1 comprises a bag reserve device 2, a bag removal device 3 and a transfer device 4 arranged between the two. Here, the bag reserve device 2, the bag removal device 3 and the transfer device 4 are arranged along a line 12.

[0131] The filling module 100 is removed from the line 12 and, in the embodiment shown here, is arranged adjacent to the transfer device 4. In the embodiment shown here, empty bag pieces are fed from the bag reserve device 2 to the filling module 100 by means of the transfer device 4. The bags to be fed to the filling module 100 are hung to the filling spouts 101 of the filling module 100 and filled, and are then fed back to the line 12 again by the transfer device 4 and supplied to the bag removal device 3.

[0132] By arranging the filling module 100 adjacent to the line 12 or removing it from the line 12, virtually any filling module 100 can be used with the modules or components of the packaging machine 1 arranged in the line 12. In particular, standard modules can also be used, so that it is not necessary to specify a special design of the filling module 100 for the packaging machine of the application, which preferably is a module that fills open bags using the same filling technology.

[0133] In the embodiment shown here, the packaging machine 1 is designed to be closed, for which purpose the individual components or modules are arranged in a housing device 11, 102. Thereby, in the embodiment shown here, the subcomponents arranged in the line 12, i.e. the bag reserve device 2, the bag removal device 3 and the transfer device 4, are arranged in one common housing device 11. In the embodiment shown, the filling module 10 is arranged in its own housing device 102.

[0134] By arranging the individual components or modules in a housing device 11, 102, it is also possible, depending on the design, to make the filling process airtight, so that it is also possible to fill hazardous or sensitive substances by means of the packaging machine 1. In particular, it is also possible to use negative pressure measures or to create a suction in the packaging machine 1 or the housing device 11, 102, so that products that leak out during the filling process do not leak into the environment, but can be safely discharged or even recycled.

[0135] In the embodiment shown here, the bag storage device 2 also includes a bag making device 13, wherein the bags are manufactured from the film storage device 14 and can be supplied to the transfer device 4 for use.

[0136] In the embodiment shown here, the bag conveying device 3 includes a sealing device 15 that can close a filled and still open bag and a conveyor belt 16 for removing the filled and sealed bag.

[0137] Since the bag storage device 2, the bag delivery device 3 and the transfer device are arranged in a line 12, and the filling module 100 is arranged outside this line 112, the packaging machine 1 according to the present invention has a T-shaped arrangement.

[0138] As already explained, this offers several advantages. One advantage is that virtually any (standard) filling module can be used by arranging the filling module 100 alongside or removing it from line 12. Therefore, on the one hand, existing filling modules 100 can be used. On the other hand, the adjacent arrangement also allows for quick or easy replacement of filling modules with minimal effort. In known in-line equipment, i.e., equipment where everything is arranged in a single line, it can be difficult to arrange filling technology equipment, particularly the air filling module 105 with pressure chamber 106 shown in the embodiment, in a single line due to space constraints. Furthermore, operability or maintainability will become difficult.

[0139] Another advantage is that the T-shaped design or arrangement of the packaging machine makes particularly compact designs possible.

[0140] Figures 2 to 4 Two perspective views and one front view of the packaging machine 1 are shown to better illustrate the situation of the packaging machine 1. In order to ensure an overview view of the interior of the packaging machine 1 or the various modules or components, the housing panels 17 and 103 are not shown at the housing devices 11 and 102.

[0141] Figure 5 and Figure 6 An overview view and enlarged view of the transfer device 4 from the side of the self-bag delivery device 3 are shown.

[0142] In this view, the filling module 100 is positioned or arranged adjacent to the transfer device 4, and the filling nozzle 101 of the filling module 100 can also be seen in this view. The feed hopper 104 of the filling module 100, connected to a silo containing product to be filled (not shown above), is also visible here. Here, product is fed into the filling module 100 via the feed hopper 104, or supplied to the filling nozzle 101 via the pressure chamber 106 within the air filling module 105.

[0143] In this view, it can be seen that the transfer device comprises a first gripping device 5 and a second gripping device 6, which are accommodated at different sides 7, 8 of the main body 18 of the transfer device 4 or at the main body 18 of the transfer device 4.

[0144] In the embodiment shown here, the main body 18 of the transfer device 4 is here in a columnar configuration and is here shown in a suspended arrangement. In the embodiment shown, the main body 18 is suspended to a rail 19, whereby the main body 18 with the gripping devices 5, 6 can be moved out of the line 12 to the left in this view. This mobility of the transfer device 4 will be shown and described in detail below.

[0145] In addition to the mobility of the transfer device 4 or the main body 18 of the transfer device 4, the main body 18 can also be pivoted back and forth by 90° in the embodiment shown here. By pivoting the main body 18 of the transfer device 4 back and forth and arranging the first gripping device 5 to the side 7 of the main body 18 and the second gripping device 6 to the side 8 of the main body 18, the bags from the bag reserve device 2 can be brought by means of the transfer device 4 from the line 12 to the filling module 100 or to the filling spout 101 by pivoting the main body 18 back and forth by 90°. When the main body 18 or the transfer device 4 is pivoted in the opposite direction, the second gripping device 6 contacts the bag piece that has now been filled at the filling spout 101 and can take it up and bring it back to the line 12 and to the bag removal device when the main body 18 is pivoted or re-pivoted forward.

[0146] In the enlarged view of Figure 6 , it can be seen that the first gripping device 5 and the second gripping device 6 are located at different sides 7, 8 of the main body 18 of the transfer device 4. Hereby, one of the two gripping arms 9 of the first gripping device 5 can also be seen.

[0147] In the embodiment shown here, the gripping device 5 comprises two gripping arms 9, which can be moved relative to one another, so that they are used as a kind of clamp. Thus, the gripping arms 9 of the first gripping device can be a gripping device 5 that takes an open bag from the bag reserve device 2 or from a bag making device and hangs it to the filling spout 101. For this purpose, the first gripping device 5 or the gripping arms 9 thereof can also be displaced forward and back again in the embodiment shown here, which is shown purely schematically in Figure 7 and Figure 8 .

[0148] Figure 9 A purely schematic view of the transfer device 4 and the filling module 100 from the perspective of the bag reserve device 2 is shown. Here, the main body 18 of the transfer device 4 is pivoted in such a way that the second gripping device 6 is aligned to the filling spout 101 of the filling module 100. In this position, the first gripping device 5 is oriented in such a way that it can take an empty bag from the bag reserve device 2.

[0149] Figure 10 A purely schematic side view of the transfer device 4 and the filling module 100 is shown from the side of the bag removal device 3.

[0150] It can be seen here that the second gripping device 6 is arranged displaceably, so that in the embodiment shown it can be pivoted or displaced forward by means of a parallelogram structure 20 towards the filling spout 101. The clamping mechanism 10 of the second gripping device 6 can thus press the still open bag walls of the filled bag together and then move the bag back towards the body 18.

[0151] Subsequently, the body 18 can be rotated here by 90° clockwise, so that the filled bag can be moved back onto the line 12 and subsequently to the bag removal device. At the same time, a new empty bag can be taken by the first gripping device 5 during the removal of the filled bag by the second gripping device 6. When the filled bag is pivoted forward onto the line 12, the new empty bag is also moved off the line 12 and to the filling spout 101.

[0152] It can be seen further in Figure 10 that the cleaning device 50 according to the application is arranged above the second gripping device 6, which will be explained in detail in the following figures.

[0153] Figure 11 and Figure 12 A side view of the packaging machine 1 and the transfer device 4 as well as the filling module 100 is shown again purely schematically from the direction of the bag removal device 3. It can be seen in comparison with this view that the transfer device 4 or the body 18 together with the gripping devices 5, 6 attached thereto are designed to be movable or pullable out.

[0154] For this purpose, as has already been explained, the body 18 is suspended in the upper region in the embodiment shown here and is displaceable by means of a rail 19 or rail system 19. Other technical components or parts for the displacement of the body 18 can also be used analogously.

[0155] Since the transfer device 4 or the body 18 of the transfer device 4 can be moved out transversely to the line 12 in the embodiment shown here, this fact provides the maintenance personnel with sufficient space, for example, for the maintenance of the packaging machine 1.

[0156] It is thus possible in particular in the displaced state of the body 18 to reach all components of the packaging machine 1 conveniently in the embodiment shown here. In particular, it is also possible to reach the filling module 100 from the side of the filling spout 101. However, the other inaccessible side of the bag storage device 2, the bag removal device and the transfer device can also be maintained and / or serviced.

[0157] Figure 13 and14 is an overview and a partial view of the transfer device 4 of the packaging machine 1 and of the main body 18 of the transfer device 4.

[0158] In the present embodiment, the first gripping device 5 and the second gripping device 6 are arranged offset by 90° at different sides 7, 8. This arrangement ensures an overlapping work mode of the transfer or the conveying of empty bags and filled bags.

[0159] Above the second gripping device 6, a cleaning device 50 is provided, which comprises a housing device 64, wherein in the embodiment shown here, a rotatable housing part 65 or a rotatable baffle 66 is provided. The cleaning device 50 will be explained in more detail in the following figures.

[0160] Furthermore, it can be seen that the first gripping device 5 is arranged to the side 7 of the main body 18, which in the embodiment shown here comprises two gripping arms 9, which here can be displaced or pivoted or moved outwards relative to each other. The gripping arms thus act as clamps and can pick up or take over empty bags from the bag reserve 2.

[0161] Furthermore, it can be seen from the above figures that the first gripping device 5 is arranged pivotable, so that it can be displaced both in the direction of the filling spout 101 forwards and in the direction of the bag reserve 2. Depending on the design, it is also possible to provide, for example, telescopic gripping arms 9 or other components of the first gripping device 5.

[0162] In Figure 15 and Figure 16 , the main body of the transfer device 4 is rotated such that the first gripping device 5 is aligned with the filling spout 101 of the filling module 100. In this position, an open bag, not shown, is held in the gripping arms 9 by opening the two gripping arms 9 in the embodiment shown here, wherein the gripping device 5 is displaced forwards in order to hang the open bag held to the filling spout 101. Furthermore, the second gripping device 6 with the clamping mechanism 10 can be seen.

[0163] In Figure 17 and 18 , the side view of Figure 15 and 16 is shown again in a slightly perspective view from above, whereby the cleaning device 50 above the second gripping device 6 is hidden in order to obtain a better impression of the clamping mechanism 10 of the second gripping device 6.

[0164] Figures 19 to 24 The cleaning device 50 provided above the second gripping device 6 according to the application and its mode of operation in the embodiment shown here are described in detail.

[0165] In the embodiment shown here, the cleaning device 50 according to the application is arranged in the embodiment shown here above the second clamping device 6 for cleaning the so-called head-seam region of the bag to be closed by means of the blown air.

[0166] In addition to the application of the cleaning device 50 according to the application introduced here, it can also clean any other work section, in particular a work section associated with the packaging machine 1 described here.

[0167] In the embodiment shown here, the cleaning device 50 according to the application is arranged in the embodiment shown here above the second clamping device 6 for cleaning the so-called head-seam region of the bag to be closed by means of the blown air. Figure 19 In the embodiment shown here, the cleaning device 50 according to the application is arranged in the embodiment shown here above the second clamping device 6 for cleaning the so-called head-seam region of the bag to be closed by means of the blown air.

[0168] In the embodiment shown here, the cleaning device 50 according to the application is arranged in the embodiment shown here above the second clamping device 6 for cleaning the so-called head-seam region of the bag to be closed by means of the blown air. Figure 19 In the embodiment shown here, the cleaning device 50 according to the application is arranged in the embodiment shown here above the second clamping device 6 for cleaning the so-called head-seam region of the bag to be closed by means of the blown air. In order to seal the work section or the bag to be cleaned against the air, the housing device 64 comprises a movable or in the embodiment shown here pivotable housing part 65 or flap 66, which is in the closed state in the view shown.

[0169] In the embodiment shown here, the cleaning device 50 according to the application is arranged in the embodiment shown here above the second clamping device 6 for cleaning the so-called head-seam region of the bag to be closed by means of the blown air. Figure 20 In the embodiment shown here, the cleaning device 50 according to the application is arranged in the embodiment shown here above the second clamping device 6 for cleaning the so-called head-seam region of the bag to be closed by means of the blown air. In order to seal the work section or the bag to be cleaned against the air, the housing device 64 comprises a movable or in the embodiment shown here pivotable housing part 65 or flap 66, which is in the closed state in the view shown.

[0170] In the embodiment shown here, the cleaning device 50 according to the application is arranged in the embodiment shown here above the second clamping device 6 for cleaning the so-called head-seam region of the bag to be closed by means of the blown air. Figure 21 In the embodiment shown here, the cleaning device 50 according to the application is arranged in the embodiment shown here above the second clamping device 6 for cleaning the so-called head-seam region of the bag to be closed by means of the blown air. In order to seal the work section or the bag to be cleaned against the air, the housing device 64 comprises a movable or in the embodiment shown here pivotable housing part 65 or flap 66, which is in the closed state in the view shown.

[0171] In the embodiment shown here, the cleaning device 50 according to the application is arranged in the embodiment shown here above the second clamping device 6 for cleaning the so-called head-seam region of the bag to be closed by means of the blown air.

[0172] In the embodiment shown here, the cleaning device 50 according to the application is arranged in the embodiment shown here above the second clamping device 6 for cleaning the so-called head-seam region of the bag to be closed by means of the blown air.

[0173] This is achieved by the first nozzle means 52 or the first nozzle means 52 of the first row 60 having a first blow-off direction 55, respectively, which differs from the blow-off direction 56, 57 of the other nozzle means 53, 54 or of the other rows 61, 62 or of the nozzle means 53, 54. It is especially preferred and also provided in the present embodiment that the first nozzle means 52, the second nozzle means 53 and the third nozzle means 54 have blow-off directions 50, 56, 57, respectively, which differ from one another.

[0174] Furthermore, a control device 58 is provided, which is not shown in more detail in the figures, and which is adapted and designed for at least temporarily shifting the actuation of the nozzle means 52, 53, 54 in time.

[0175] For this purpose, in the shown embodiment, for the nozzle 52, 53, 54 of the three rows 60, 61, 62, separate air supply ducts 59 are provided within the blow-off plate 51. Here, two blow-off plates 51 are provided, and in Figure 22 the left blow-off plate 51 can be seen purely schematically by hiding it. By hiding the blow-off plate 51, the separate air supply duct 59a located outside the blow-off plate 51 or the connection of the air supply duct 59 for the blow-off plate 51 can be seen.

[0176] In Figure 23 and Figure 24 a suction device 63 can also be provided to suck away the air or other fluid ejected by the blow-off plate 51 together with the vortex particles.

[0177] For this purpose, in the shown embodiment, the suction device 63 is functionally connected with the interior of the housing device 64 via an opening 67 of the housing device 64.

[0178] Thereby, in the shown embodiment, a suction duct 68 is provided, which is connected with the opening 67. Depending on the design, a further suction duct 68 can also be provided on the left side, wherein the opening 67 on the left side is closed by a cover plate 69 on the left side.

[0179] In the shown embodiment, it is provided as described above that a substantially airtight cleaning chamber is formed by the closing of the movable housing part 65 or the shutter 66 of the housing device 64. Depending on the application, the suction device is adjusted in such a way that at least the amount of air or in general the amount which is ejected by the blow-off plate 51 into the housing device 64. It is especially preferred that the amount which is sucked away at least causes a small negative pressure to be formed within the housing device 64. This is especially important for devices used in the field of dust removal. In non-critical working environments or in general, a housing device 64 which is not airtight or no housing device 64 can be provided.

[0180] Furthermore, Figure 23 and Figure 24It is also shown that the first, second, and third nozzle mechanisms 52, 53, and 54 of different rows 60, 61, and 62 are connected via different air supply pipes 59a for each blower plate 51. Therefore, the different controls of these nozzle mechanisms 52, 53, and 54, or the different controls of the nozzle mechanisms 52, 53, and 54 of these rows 60, 61, and 62, can also be different for each blower plate 51. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, an air wave or moving airflow can be formed over the entire length and width of the work section to be cleaned, thereby mimicking the blowing pattern of an oscillating nozzle, particularly without the use of moving parts. Here, the blowing pattern of the oscillating nozzle achieves the separation of the bag walls to be joined during cleaning of the bag section for subsequent head seams, thereby removing the product located between the bag walls.

[0181] In particular, this is achieved through oscillating air jets. Before the filled bag is closed or sealed, the overlapping bag walls or film layers are opened by the air jets as they clean the bag opening edges with the moving airflow, causing the air jets to impact the inner surface and remove adhering dust or dirt particles. By changing the air jets, depending on the bag's design, the side-folded layers are also separated, allowing that area to be cleaned as well. These film layers are peeled off approximately sequentially by the moving or oscillating airflow and cleaned by the incoming airflow.

[0182] Figures 25 to 28 The illustration is purely schematic, showing the transfer of filled bags to bag delivery device 3 via transfer device 4.

[0183] Therefore, a parallelogram structure 20 is provided, which is equipped with a second clamping device 6 with a clamping mechanism 10. This structure 20 is also used to remove a complete bag from the filling nozzle 101, or to bring the second clamping device 6 into contact with a filled bag.

[0184] In its basic state, the second clamping device 6 is positioned relatively close to the main body 18 of the transfer device 4. (The following...) Figure 26 and 27 As can be seen, the second clamping device 6 moves forward toward the bag delivery device 3 by shifting the parallelogram structure 20.

[0185] Here you can also see the sealing device 15, which in the embodiment shown here is designed as a welding station 21.

[0186] exist Figures 28 In the diagram, several positions of the parallelogram structure 20 are shown side by side to illustrate how the special design of the parallelogram structure 20 allows the filled bags to be transferred approximately along a line or in a straight line to the bag delivery device 3 by means of the clamping device 6 of the transfer device 4.

[0187] exist Figures 29 to 33In the middle, a further embodiment of a packaging machine 1 according to the application is shown purely schematically. Here, the design of this embodiment corresponds essentially to the embodiment already described above.

[0188] In particular, the bag reserve 2, the transfer device 4 and the bag removal device 3 are arranged in a line 12. In contrast to the previously shown embodiment, not one filling module 100 is removed from the line 12 and arranged next to the transfer device 4, but two filling modules 100 are arranged next to one another outside the line 12.

[0189] In order to select which of the two filling modules 100 is used, in the embodiment shown here the transfer device 4 is arranged to be movable so that it can be arranged in front of one or the other filling module 100. In this way, for example, a product change can be carried out quickly, or the filling module 100 can be serviced, for which the transfer device 4 can be slid or moved in front of the filling module 100 to be used or not to be serviced. In parallel with the possibility of the transfer device 4 being displaced in the line 12, depending on the design, it is also possible for the transfer device 4 to be additionally arranged to be movable or displaceable transversely to the line 12, as in the previously shown embodiment.

[0190] In order to ensure that the bags are reliably taken from the bag reserve 2 and that the filled bags are reliably handed over to the bag removal device by means of the transfer device 4, some components of the transfer device 4 can be arranged displaceably accordingly.

[0191] However, depending on the design, the bag reserve 2 and / or the bag removal device 3 can also be displaced so that an optimum distance always exists between the individual components.

Claims

1. A packaging machine (1) for filling bulk products into bags, comprising at least one bag storage device (2), at least one filling module (100) with at least one filling nozzle (101), and at least one bag conveying device (3), characterized in that, The bag storage device and the bag delivery device are arranged along a line (12) and the filling module is positioned to move out from the line (12). At least one transfer device (4) is arranged along the line (12) between the bag storage device (2) and the bag delivery device (3), wherein the filling module (100) is arranged side by side with the transfer device (4). The bag storage device (2), the transfer device (4), the bag delivery device (3), and the filling module (100) are arranged in a T-shape. The transfer device is adapted and designed to deliver empty bags from the bag storage device (2) to the filling nozzle (101) and deliver filled bags from the filling nozzle (101) to the bag delivery device (3).

2. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 1, wherein the transfer device (4) includes at least one first clamping device (5) for delivering an empty bag from the bag storage device (2) to the filling nozzle (101), and the transfer device (4) includes at least one second clamping device (6) for delivering a filled bag from the filling nozzle (101) to the bag delivery device (3).

3. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 2, wherein the first clamping device (5) for transferring empty bags and the second clamping device (6) for transferring filled bags are arranged on different sides (7,8) of the transfer device (4).

4. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the first clamping device (5) for transferring empty bags and the second clamping device (6) for transferring filled bags are arranged at the transfer device (4) at a 60° to 120° offset from each other.

5. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 4, wherein the first clamping device (5) for transferring empty bags and the second clamping device (6) for transferring filled bags are arranged at the transfer device (4) at an angle of 80° to 100° from each other.

6. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 5, wherein the first clamping device (5) for transferring empty bags and the second clamping device (6) for transferring filled bags are arranged at the transfer device (4) at a 90° offset from each other.

7. The packaging machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the transfer device (4) is at least partially rotatable and / or pivotally rotatable.

8. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 7, wherein the body (18) of the transfer device (4) is rotatably and / or pivotally disposed.

9. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 7, wherein the transfer device is rotatable between 60º and 120º.

10. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 9, wherein the transfer device is rotatable between 80º and 100º.

11. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 10, wherein the transfer device is rotatable by 90°.

12. The packaging machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the transfer device (4) is designed to be at least partially movable.

13. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the first clamping device (5) for transferring empty bags is configured to be movable.

14. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the first clamping device (5) comprises at least two clamping arms (9) that are movable relative to each other.

15. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the second clamping device (6) for transferring the filled bags is movably configured.

16. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the second clamping device (6) includes at least one clamping mechanism (10).

17. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the second clamping device (6) is equipped with at least one cleaning device (50).

18. The packaging machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the bag storage device (2), filling module (100), bag delivery device (3) and / or transfer device (4) are at least partially arranged within at least one housing device (11, 102).

19. The packaging machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least two filling modules (100) are provided.

20. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 19, wherein the filling modules (100) are arranged side by side.

21. A method for operating a packaging machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that, Bags from the bag storage device (2) are transferred from the line (12) to the filling module (100), and after filling, they are transferred back to the line (12) and transported to the bag delivery device.

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