Horizontal forming device

Abstract

The invention is based on a horizontal forming device, in particular for a horizontal flow packaging machine, having at least one, in particular rollerless, forming unit (12), in particular a forming shoulder, and having at least one support unit (78), the forming unit (12) and the support unit (78) being configured for forming a packaging material web (14), in particular a paper web, into a packaging material tube (16), wherein the forming unit (12) and the support unit (78) together delimit a guiding gap (122, 124) through which the packaging material web (14) can be guided. It is proposed that the horizontal forming device comprises at least one compensation unit (126) which is configured to movably support the forming unit (12) and / or the support unit (78) such that at least during the forming of the packaging material tube (16) the forming unit (12) and the support unit (78) can be moved relative to one another, in particular in order to enable a compensation movement of the forming unit (12) and / or the support unit (78) relative to one another during the forming of the packaging material tube (16).

Description

Background Technology

[0001] Horizontal forming apparatuses, particularly for horizontal flow packaging machines, are known. These known horizontal forming apparatuses include at least one, particularly rollerless forming unit, particularly a forming shoulder, and at least one support unit. The forming unit and the support unit are configured to form a packaging material web, particularly a paper web, into a packaging material tube, wherein the forming unit and the support unit together define a guide gap through which the packaging material web can be guided. Summary of the Invention

[0002] The present invention is based on a horizontal forming apparatus, particularly a horizontal forming apparatus for a horizontal flow packaging machine, the horizontal forming apparatus having at least one, particularly rollerless forming unit, particularly a forming shoulder, and having at least one support unit, the forming unit and the support unit being configured to form a packaging material web, particularly a paper web, into a packaging material tube, wherein the forming unit and the support unit together define a guide gap through which the packaging material web can be guided.

[0003] The proposed horizontal forming apparatus includes at least one compensation unit configured to movably support the forming unit and / or the support unit such that, at least during the forming of the packaging material tube, the forming unit and the support unit can move relative to each other, particularly to enable the forming unit and / or the support unit to compensate for each other's movement relative to each other during the forming of the packaging material tube. "Configuration" specifically refers to special implementation, special programming, special design, and / or special equipment. An object configured for a particular function should be understood in particular as the object realizing and / or performing the particular function in at least one application state and / or operating state. It is conceivable that only the forming unit is movably supported by means of the compensation unit, only the support unit is movably supported by means of the compensation unit, or the forming unit and the support unit are movably supported by means of the compensation unit, so that the forming unit and / or the support unit can compensate for each other's movement relative to each other during the forming of the packaging material tube. Preferably, in addition to the gap adjustment unit, a compensation unit is provided, by means of which the gap width of the guide gap is adjustable. However, it is also conceivable that the function for adjusting the gap width of the guide gap is integrated into the compensation unit. The compensation unit is preferably configured to movably support the forming unit and / or the support unit such that the forming unit and / or the support unit can move relative to each other during operation of a packaging machine including a horizontal forming device, particularly a horizontal flow packaging machine. The compensation unit is preferably configured to movably support the forming unit and / or the support unit such that the forming unit and / or the support unit can move relative to each other during the travel of the packaging material web through the guide gap, particularly when the packaging material web travels through the guide gap, for example, due to the connecting elements arranged on the packaging material web, particularly adhesive splicing tape, due to the maximum thickness change of the packaging material web caused by at least two temporary layers of packaging material web after changing the packaging material web or such. The forming unit and / or the supporting unit can be actively moved by means of the compensation unit, or the forming unit and / or the supporting unit can be movably supported by means of the compensation unit such that, particularly due to, for example, changes in the maximum thickness of the packaging material web caused by connecting elements arranged on the packaging material web, especially adhesive webbing or the like, or by changes in the packaging material web or the like, the forming unit and / or the supporting unit can be passively moved relative to each other by traveling through the packaging material web of the guide gap. The forming unit and / or the supporting unit preferably perform avoidance movements, particularly in the case of maximum changes in the thickness of the packaging material web.The compensation unit can be configured to movably support the entire forming unit and / or the entire support unit, or it can be configured to movably support only individual elements of the forming unit and / or the support unit, so as to achieve compensating movement during the forming of the packaging material tube. Other possibilities that are advantageous to those skilled in the art are also conceived by means of the compensation unit to move the forming unit and / or the support unit relative to each other so that the forming unit and / or the support unit can perform compensating movement relative to each other during the forming of the packaging material tube. The compensation unit can be implemented such that a continuous maximum compensating movement path or a step-adjustable maximum compensating movement path can be achieved, particularly by the maximum compensating movement path of the forming unit relative to the support unit being continuously or step-adjustable, by the maximum compensating movement path of the support unit relative to the forming unit being continuously or step-adjustable, or by the maximum compensating movement paths of the forming unit and the support unit relative to each other being continuously or step-adjustable.

[0004] Preferably, the forming unit is configured to form a packaging material tube at least partially around the support unit, particularly around the outer edge of the support unit. The forming unit is preferably configured to deflect the packaging material web. Specifically, the packaging material supply unit of the packaging machine is configured to supply the packaging material web to the forming unit in a direction extending transverse to the transport direction, particularly at least substantially perpendicular to the transport direction. The forming unit preferably has at least one folded edge around which the packaging material web can deflect. Preferably, the folded edge is implemented as a shoulder edge and the forming unit is implemented as a forming shoulder. Specifically, the forming unit is implemented without rollers for deflecting the packaging material web. Preferably, the forming unit is configured to deflect the packaging material web at the folded edge in a direction transverse to the feed direction and transverse to the transport direction. Specifically, the folded edge extends at least substantially perpendicular to the feed direction and transport direction of the packaging material web. Specifically, the folded edge is configured to generate uniform material tension in the packaging material. The forming unit preferably has at least two forming profile edges that extend laterally to the folded edge, particularly in a V-shape. Specifically, the packaging material web can be reformed into a packaging material tube around the forming profile edges. Preferably, the forming profile edges extend from the folded edge to a forming channel of the forming unit along the direction of travel of the packaging material and / or along the outer contour of the supplied product, the forming channel being configured to guide the packaging material web along the transport direction. Specifically, the longitudinal axis of the forming channel extends at least substantially parallel to the transport direction. The forming channel preferably at least partially defines a guide gap. The forming channel is preferably arranged on a side of the forming unit facing the support unit and / or facing the support surface of the horizontal forming device. Preferably, the folded edge is formed at least partially by the edge of one forming element of the forming unit and the edge of another forming element of the forming unit.

[0005] The support unit is at least partially disposed in the region of the forming channel of the forming unit. Preferably, the support unit is at least partially implemented corresponding to the forming channel of the forming unit. In particular, the guide gap is defined by the forming channel of the forming unit and at least by the portion of the support unit disposed in the region of the forming channel of the forming unit. Preferably, the distance, particularly the minimum distance, between the wall of the forming channel of the forming unit and the outer surface of the portion of the support unit disposed in the region of the forming channel of the forming unit defines the gap width, particularly the maximum gap width, of the guide gap. The support unit is at least partially disposed inside the forming channel of the forming unit. Preferably, the support unit extends at least partially into the forming channel of the forming unit. The support unit may include at least one support element implemented in a U-shape, particularly a U-shaped support element implemented corresponding to the U-shaped embodiment of the forming channel of the forming unit, or the support unit may include at least two, particularly L-shaped support elements, particularly support legs, particularly two L-shaped support elements implemented corresponding to the U-shaped embodiment of the forming channel of the forming unit. Preferably, during the forming of the packaging material tube, the packaging material web, particularly in a manner known to those skilled in the art, is guided through the forming unit, particularly the forming channel of the forming unit, and between the support unit.

[0006] Preferably, the horizontal forming device is part of a packaging machine, particularly a horizontal flow packaging machine. Specifically, the horizontal forming device is configured to guide packaging material, particularly a tube of packaging material, along a horizontal transport direction extending, particularly at least substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity. The term "substantially perpendicular" specifically refers to defining an orientation relative to a reference direction, wherein the direction and the reference direction, particularly when viewed in a projection plane, comprise an angle of 90°, the angle having a maximum deviation particularly less than 8°, advantageously less than 5°, and particularly advantageously less than 2°.

[0007] Preferably, the horizontal forming device is at least configured for forming and / or guiding a web of packaging material, which is preferably made of paper. Specifically, the web of packaging material is made of paper. The packaging material is preferably made of wrapping paper. The horizontal forming device may alternatively or additionally be configured for forming and / or guiding the web of packaging material, wherein the packaging material is made in a manner different from paper, for example, as a synthetic material. Specifically, the web of packaging material may alternatively be made of a synthetic material. "Packaging material web" should be particularly understood as a planar, particularly two-dimensional, arrangement of packaging material, especially wrapping paper. Preferably, the packaging machine includes at least one packaging material unwinding unit configured to receive the packaging material, particularly as a roll of packaging material. Preferably, the packaging material unwinding unit is configured to unwind the packaging material into a web of packaging material, particularly to supply the packaging material to a packaging material supply unit of the packaging machine. The packaging material supply unit is particularly configured to supply the web of packaging material to the horizontal forming device, particularly the forming unit. The packaging material supply unit may include multiple components, particularly multiple components known to those skilled in the art, such as at least one swing lever, at least one centering detector, at least one web edge guide control, and / or at least one printing unit for printing the packaging material.

[0008] "Packaging material tube" is specifically understood as a configuration of packaging material, particularly wrapping paper, especially a three-dimensional configuration, which is particularly reshaped at least transversely to the web plane of the packaging material web. Specifically, the packaging material tube is configured to enclose the product to be packaged. The packaging material tube is particularly configured for packaging, particularly enclosing, products, especially food. Specifically, the packaging machine includes at least one product supply unit, particularly a conveyor belt, drive chain, such as a linear drive system sold by Beckhoff under the name "Linear Transport System XTS (eXtended Transport System)," or the like, at least one product supply unit configured to transport the product to be packaged to the area of ​​the horizontal forming device, particularly the forming unit, for enclosing by the packaging material tube. Preferably, the transport direction of the product extends at least substantially parallel to the transport direction. "Substantially parallel" specifically refers to an orientation of a direction, particularly in a plane, relative to a reference direction, wherein the direction deviates from the reference direction by a deviation particularly less than 8°, advantageously less than 5°, and particularly advantageously less than 2°. Preferably, the product supply unit is arranged upstream of the horizontal forming device along the transport direction, particularly upstream of the forming unit.

[0009] Preferably, the packaging machine includes at least one longitudinal sealing unit configured to create a longitudinally sealed seam in the packaging material tube, particularly by introducing heat into the packaging material and / or by applying pressure to the packaging material, the longitudinally sealed seam extending at least generally parallel to the transport direction. The longitudinal sealing unit is arranged downstream of the horizontal forming device along the transport direction. Specifically, the longitudinal sealing unit includes at least one pair of sealing rollers, which can withstand pressure and / or heat, and are particularly provided with an irregular shape and configured to transport the packaging material tube, particularly by rotation. Preferably, the longitudinal sealing unit includes multiple pairs of sealing rollers, wherein at least one first pair of sealing rollers is arranged downstream of the horizontal forming device along the transport direction and is implemented as unheated, particularly for the unheated transport of the packaging material tube. However, it is also conceivable that the first pair of sealing rollers may be implemented as heated. Preferably, the packaging machine includes at least one transverse sealing unit configured to, particularly after a corresponding product, generate a transverse sealing joint in the packaging material tube, particularly by applying selective pressure to the packaging material and / or by introducing heat into the packaging material, the transverse sealing joint extending particularly at least substantially perpendicular to the transport direction.

[0010] For heat input, the transverse sealing unit may include, for example, an ultrasonic unit, an induction unit, or various heating units that are advantageous to those skilled in the art, and these various heating units may also be partially integrated into the jaws of the transverse sealing unit. Specifically, the transverse sealing unit is configured to divide the packaging material tube into individual packages, each of which specifically encapsulates a single product. The transverse sealing unit is arranged downstream of the longitudinal sealing unit along the transport direction.

[0011] Embodiments of the horizontal forming apparatus according to the invention advantageously enable the precise reforming of packaging material webs into packaging material tubes. Advantageously, packaging material webs made of fragile, particularly tearable, and / or very thin materials, particularly paper, can be reformed into packaging material tubes. Advantageously, packaging material tubes that are at least substantially wrinkle-free are producible. A horizontal forming apparatus with an advantageously compact embodiment can be provided. Advantageously, precise guidance of the packaging material web during the forming of the packaging material tube is achievable, particularly in the case of maximum thickness variations in the packaging material web. Advantageously, damage, such as breakage, to the packaging material web caused, for example by adhesive seams arranged on the packaging material web or the like, can be counteracted, especially since the maximum thickness of the packaging material web is too large for the set gap width of the guide gap. Advantageously, a stable production process is possible.

[0012] It is also proposed that the compensation unit is configured to movably support at least one forming element of the forming unit and / or at least one support element of the support unit by means of at least one spring-preloaded compensation element of the compensation unit. Preferably, at least one side of the spring-preloaded compensation element is arranged, in particular, fixed to the forming element or the support element. However, it is also conceivable that the spring-preloaded compensation element and the forming element or the support element are implemented in an integral manner. "Integral manner" specifically means at least by joining materials together, for example by welding, gluing, injection molding and / or different processes that are advantageous to those skilled in the art, and / or advantageously formed into a whole, for example by single casting and / or by single-component or multi-component injection molding processes and advantageously produced from a single billet. Preferably, the support unit comprises at least two support elements, each movably supported by means of at least one spring-preloaded compensation element of the compensation unit. The support elements are preferably implemented and / or arranged at the forming unit in a mirror-symmetrical manner. It is conceivable that, particularly in place of or attached to the support element, the forming elements of the forming unit are movably supported by means of at least one spring-preloaded compensation element of the compensation unit. However, it is also conceivable that, particularly during the forming of the packaging material tube, the forming element is fixed in a fixed manner, and the support element is movably supported at a corresponding location within the forming element via the spring-preloaded compensation element. The compensation element can be spring-preloaded by means of a helical spring, an elastomer, a gas compression spring, a hydraulic spring, spring steel, or any other element deemed advantageous by those skilled in the art suitable for generating preload. The forming element and / or the support element are preferably supported by means of the spring-preloaded compensation element so as to allow for flexible movement. Preferably, the forming element and / or the support element are supported movable by means of the spring-preloaded compensation element so that the basic position or starting point of movement of the forming element and / or the support element can be (particularly flexibly) adjusted. Embodiments of the horizontal forming apparatus according to the invention advantageously allow for precise guidance of the packaging material web during the forming of the packaging material tube, particularly in cases of maximum thickness variation in the packaging material web. Advantageously, damage, such as breakage, to the packaging material web caused, for example by adhesive webbing strips arranged on the packaging material web or the like, can be mitigated, especially since the maximum thickness of the packaging material web is too large for the set gap width of the guide gap. Advantageously, a stable production process is achieved. The compensating movement of the forming unit and / or the support unit during the forming of the packaging material tube can be achieved in a simple manner.

[0013] Furthermore, it is proposed that the compensation unit includes at least one transmission device, particularly a guided transmission device, for implementing the compensating movement of the forming unit and / or the support unit. The transmission device can, for example, be an eccentric transmission device enabling the forming unit and / or the support unit to perform compensating movement, wherein at least one eccentric element of the eccentric transmission device can be implemented as a spring-preloaded compensating element. The transmission device can also be a mechanically coupled transmission device enabling the forming unit and / or the support unit to perform compensating movement, wherein at least one coupling element of the mechanically coupled transmission device can be implemented as a spring-preloaded compensating element. However, it is also conceivable that the transmission device has different embodiments that are considered advantageous by those skilled in the art. Preferably, at least one forming element of the forming unit and / or at least one support element of the support unit is arranged, particularly fixed, on at least one transmission device element, particularly a spring-preloaded compensating element. In particular, at least one forming element of the forming unit and / or at least one support element of the support unit is movably supported by means of the transmission device of the compensation unit. Embodiments of the horizontal forming apparatus according to the invention advantageously allow for precise guidance of the packaging material web during the forming of the packaging material tube, particularly in cases of maximum thickness variation in the packaging material web. This enables the forming unit and / or the support unit to perform precise compensating movements during the forming of the packaging material tube.

[0014] It is also proposed that the transmission device is configured to perform compensating movements along at least two directions extending laterally to each other. Preferably, the transmission device is configured to perform compensating movements along directions extending at least generally parallel to the transport direction and at least generally perpendicular to the transport direction. Preferably, the transmission device is configured to enable superposition of translation and rotation. Preferably, the transmission device is implemented as a guided transmission device, particularly as a parallelogram guided structure. However, it is also conceivable that the transmission device has different embodiments suitable for performing compensating movements along at least two directions extending laterally to each other, which are considered advantageous by those skilled in the art. Preferably, the transmission device is configured to perform compensating movements of at least one support element of the support unit relative to the forming unit. Preferably, in order to achieve the compensating movements of the at least one support element relative to the forming unit, the at least one support element can be moved away from the forming unit and along the transport direction by means of the transmission device. However, it is also conceivable that the transmission device is configured to perform compensating movements of at least one forming element of the forming unit relative to the support unit or to perform compensating movements of the forming unit and the support unit relative to each other. Embodiments of the horizontal forming apparatus according to the invention advantageously allow for reliable compensating movement of the forming unit and / or the support unit. Advantageously, clamping of the packaging material web can be counteracted during the compensating movement of the forming unit and / or the support unit. Advantageously, precise guidance of the packaging material web can be achieved during the forming of the packaging material tube, particularly in the event of maximum thickness variation in the packaging material web. Advantageously, damage, such as breakage, of the packaging material web caused, for example by adhesive splicing tapes arranged on the packaging material web or the like, can be counteracted, especially since the maximum thickness of the packaging material web is too large for the set gap width of the guide gap.

[0015] In addition, it is proposed that the compensation unit includes at least one preload element, particularly a spring element, which generates a preload force resisting the compensating movement of the forming unit and / or the support unit. Preferably, the preload element is configured to generate a preload force toward a starting position from which at least one forming element of the forming unit and / or at least one support element of the support unit can move to perform the compensating movement. The preload element can be implemented as a helical tension spring, a helical compression spring, a leaf spring, an elastomer, a gas compression spring, a hydraulic spring, spring steel, or various spring elements that are advantageous to those skilled in the art. Preferably, the preload element acts directly or indirectly on the compensation element, which is arranged at at least one forming element of the forming unit and / or at least one support element of the support unit. It is also conceivable that at least one support element of the support unit is movably supported at at least one forming element of the forming unit, and the preload element is arranged independently of or together with the compensation element between at least one support element of the support unit and at least one forming element of the forming unit. Other embodiments and / or arrangements of the preloaded element that are advantageous to those skilled in the art are also conceivable. Embodiments of the horizontal forming apparatus according to the invention advantageously achieve positioning of the forming unit and / or the support unit in the initial position, particularly so as to reliably maintain a set gap width of the guide gap during the forming of the packaging material tube, when the forming unit and / or the support unit are arranged with minimal movement. Advantageously, precise guidance of the packaging material web can be achieved during the forming of the packaging material tube, especially in the case of maximum thickness variation of the packaging material web.

[0016] Furthermore, it is proposed that the horizontal forming apparatus includes at least one adjusting unit and at least one supporting surface, particularly a work plate, on which the product to be packaged can be transported. The adjusting unit is configured to support the forming unit, the supporting unit, and the compensating unit such that they together are adjustable relative to the supporting surface. To achieve different packaging material tube geometries, the adjusting unit is preferably configured to support the forming unit, the supporting unit, and the compensating unit such that they are adjustable, particularly in different adjustment planes. However, it is also conceivable that the horizontal forming apparatus includes two adjusting units, wherein at least one of the two adjusting units is configured to adjustably support the forming unit, and wherein at least the other of the two adjusting units is configured to adjustably support the supporting unit. In particular, packaging different products may require different packaging material tube geometries. In particular, the packaging machine is configured to package different products, which in particular have different sizes. Specifically, packaging different products may require different packaging material tube geometries, these products having different maximum extension dimensions, particularly different heights, at least generally perpendicular to the supporting surface, and / or different maximum extension dimensions, particularly different widths, at least generally parallel to the supporting surface and transverse to the transport direction. Specifically, the maximum extension dimension of the packaging material tube, at least generally perpendicular to the supporting surface, particularly the height of the packaging material tube, and / or the maximum extension dimension of the packaging material tube, at least generally parallel to the supporting surface and transverse to the transport direction, particularly the width of the packaging material tube, can be adjusted by adjusting the forming unit and / or the supporting unit. Preferably, the forming unit, the supporting unit, and the compensating unit are supported so that they are adjustable, particularly adjustable together, in at least one adjustment plane extending on the side of the supporting surface facing the forming unit. Specifically, the forming unit, the supporting unit, and the compensating unit are supported such that they are adjustable as a whole sub-assembly. Preferably, the adjustment unit is configured to support the forming unit, the supporting unit, and the compensating unit such that they can move translationally and / or rotationally. Preferably, particularly for adjusting the height of the packaging material tube, the adjustment unit is configured to support the forming unit, the support unit, and the compensation unit, such that the forming unit, the support unit, and the compensation unit can be translated at least along an adjustment direction that extends at least substantially perpendicular to the support surface.Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the adjustment unit is configured to support the forming unit, the support unit, and the compensation unit such that they can be translated along at least along another adjustment direction extending at least substantially perpendicular to the adjustment direction and at least substantially parallel to the transport direction. Preferably, the adjustment unit is implemented as a manual adjustment unit, particularly a sub-assembly, for manually adjusting the forming unit, the support unit, and the compensation unit. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the adjustment unit includes at least one automatic adjustment element, particularly a servo motor, configured for automatically adjusting the forming unit, the support unit, and the compensation unit. The adjustment unit can be implemented such that the positions of the forming unit, the support unit, and the compensation unit can be achieved continuously or in steps, particularly together, particularly relative to the support surface and / or the forming guide unit. Where step adjustment is possible, for example, it is conceivable that embodiments of the adjustment unit have locking tracks for achieving various locking positions. In cases where continuous adjustment is possible, it is conceivable that the adjustment unit includes at least one guide rail or at least one guide rod, on which the forming unit, the support unit, and the compensation unit are supported so as to move together. Positioning can be secured by at least one clamping element, particularly a clamping screw or the like, which acts in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner with the guide rail or guide rod. The support surface preferably forms a cargo track over which the product can be transported. The support surface is preferably arranged in a plane extending at least generally parallel to the transport direction. Preferably, the product supply unit, the longitudinal sealing unit, particularly the sealing roller, and / or the transverse sealing unit at least partially extend through the support surface. Specifically, the axis of rotation of the sealing roller of the longitudinal sealing unit extends at least generally perpendicular to the support surface. Preferably, the forming unit is arranged on the side of the support surface on which the product can be transported, and in particular, the packaging material unwinding unit and the packaging material supply unit are arranged on the side. By means of an embodiment of the horizontal forming apparatus according to the invention, the sum of tolerances can be advantageously offset, particularly in terms of the adjustability of the forming unit, the support unit, and the compensation unit as sub-assemblies. Advantageously, precise guidance of the packaging material web can be achieved during the forming of the packaging material tube, especially in the case of maximum thickness variation of the packaging material web. Advantageously, adjustability with respect to different packaging material tube geometries is facilitated, while compensating movement of the forming unit and / or the support unit during the forming of the packaging material tube can be achieved in a simple manner.

[0017] It is also proposed that, particularly in at least one embodiment of the horizontal forming apparatus according to the invention, the support unit is arranged at the forming unit and supported by the compensation unit to be movable relative to the forming unit, particularly to facilitate compensating movement of the support unit relative to the forming unit during the forming of the packaging material tube. Preferably, the support unit is arranged at the forming unit via the compensation unit. Preferably, at least one support element of the support unit is arranged at at least one forming element of the forming unit via a spring-preloaded compensation element. In particular, the at least one support element is supported by the compensation unit to be movable relative to the at least one forming element, particularly to facilitate compensating movement of the at least one support element relative to the at least one forming element during the forming of the packaging material tube. Preferably, the support unit includes at least one additional support element, which is arranged on at least one additional forming element of the forming unit via a spring-preloaded compensation element of the compensation unit. In particular, the at least one additional support element is supported by the compensation unit to be movable relative to the at least one additional forming element, particularly to facilitate compensating movement of the at least one additional support element relative to the at least one additional forming element during the forming of the packaging material tube. However, it is also conceivable that the support unit is arranged on the support surface and supported by the compensation unit to be movable relative to the forming unit, particularly to facilitate compensating movement of the support unit relative to the forming unit during the forming of the packaging material tube, or that the forming unit and the support unit are arranged on the support surface and supported by the compensation unit to be movable relative to each other, particularly to facilitate compensating movement of the forming unit and the support unit relative to each other during the forming of the packaging material tube. Embodiments of the horizontal forming apparatus according to the invention allow for the realization of a compact horizontal forming apparatus, wherein compensating movement of the forming unit and / or the support unit during the forming of the packaging material tube can be achieved in a simple manner. Advantageously, precise guidance of the packaging material web can be achieved during the forming of the packaging material tube, particularly in the case of maximum thickness variation of the packaging material web. Advantageously, the sum of motion tolerances can be offset.

[0018] Furthermore, the compensation unit includes at least one load-bearing element fastened to at least one, particularly at least one, of the aforementioned forming elements of the forming unit, wherein at least one support element of the support unit, particularly by means of a spring-preloaded parallelogram guide structure of the compensation unit, is movably supported at the load-bearing element. Preferably, the spring-preloaded compensation element is a component of the parallelogram guide structure. In particular, the load-bearing element has a main extension axis extending at least substantially parallel to the support surface and / or the transport direction. The “main extension axis” of the object should be understood in particular as an axis extending parallel to the longest edge of the smallest geometric rectangular cuboid that still completely surrounds the object. In particular, the compensation unit includes at least one additional load-bearing element fastened to at least one additional forming element of the forming unit, wherein at least one additional support element of the support unit, particularly by means of another spring-preloaded parallelogram guide structure of the compensation unit, is movably supported at the additional load-bearing element. In particular, the supporting elements and the additional supporting elements are arranged symmetrically, especially mirror-symmetrically, at the forming unit. Embodiments of the horizontal forming apparatus according to the invention advantageously allow for precise guidance of the packaging material web during the forming of the packaging material tube, particularly in the case of maximum thickness variation in the packaging material web. Advantageously, the sum of motion tolerances can be offset.

[0019] Furthermore, it is proposed, particularly alternatively or additionally, that the compensation unit includes at least one actuator configured to actively move the forming unit and / or the support unit during the forming of the packaging material tube, particularly to facilitate compensating movement of the forming unit and / or the support unit relative to each other during the forming of the packaging material tube. To achieve this compensating movement of the forming unit and / or the support unit relative to each other during the forming of the packaging material, the actuator may be operatively connected only to the forming unit, only to the support unit, or to both the forming unit and the support unit. The actuator may be implemented as a servo motor, an actuable hydraulic cylinder or pneumatic cylinder, or other actuators that are advantageous to those skilled in the art. The actuator may be alternatively or additionally provided to the drive mechanism of the compensation unit. Embodiments of the horizontal forming apparatus according to the invention enable compensating movement of the forming unit and / or the support unit during the forming of the packaging material tube in a simple manner. Advantageously, this makes a stable production process possible.

[0020] It is also proposed that the compensation unit includes at least one sensor element for detecting parameters of the packaging material web, and the actuator can be actuated according to the detected packaging material web parameters. Preferably, the packaging material web parameters are parameters that can describe the state, geometric features, orientation, arrangement, or other parameters that are advantageous to those skilled in the art. The packaging material web parameters may, for example, be the maximum thickness of the packaging material web, discontinuities in or at the packaging material web, the connection area between the packaging material web and another packaging material web, or other packaging material web parameters that are advantageous to those skilled in the art. The sensor element can be implemented as a light shield, a camera, a detector, or other sensor elements that are advantageous to those skilled in the art. A high degree of automation can be advantageously achieved by means of an embodiment of the horizontal forming apparatus according to the invention. The forming unit and / or the support unit facilitate compensating movement during the forming of the packaging material tube in a simple manner. Advantageously, a stable production process can be achieved.

[0021] In addition, a packaging machine having at least one horizontal forming device according to the invention, particularly a horizontal flow packaging machine, is proposed. Preferably, the packaging machine, in particular, includes at least a packaging material unwinding unit, a packaging material supply unit, a product supply unit, a longitudinal sealing unit, and a transverse sealing unit, in addition to the horizontal forming device. It is conceivable that the packaging machine includes other units that are advantageous to those skilled in the art, such as a forming guide unit, a heating unit, a negative pressure unit, particularly a suction device, or the like. The forming guide unit is preferably configured to further guide the packaging material web along at least generally perpendicular to the introduction direction of the packaging material web at the forming unit, particularly along the transport direction of the packaging material web, while maintaining uniform material tension generated by the forming unit, particularly by the folded edges. In particular, the forming guide unit is arranged downstream of the forming unit along the transport direction of the packaging material web, and particularly upstream of the longitudinal sealing unit. Preferably, the forming guide unit includes at least one, particularly three-dimensional, forming guide profile configured to support the guided packaging material web, particularly at least the outer edge of the packaging material web, particularly for achieving uniform material tension maintenance. Preferably, the forming guide unit includes at least two forming guide profiles, which are arranged in particular in a mirror-symmetric manner with respect to an imaginary plane of symmetry extending at least substantially parallel to the transport direction of the packaging material web, particularly the transport direction of the packaging material web extending in the imaginary plane of symmetry, and extending at least substantially perpendicular to the folded edge of the forming unit. Preferably, the forming guide unit, particularly with respect to the imaginary plane of symmetry, is implemented in a mirror-symmetric manner. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the forming guide unit and / or the forming unit is implemented in an asymmetrical manner. Preferably, the forming guide unit is implemented without rollers for deflecting the packaging material tube, particularly as an additional forming shoulder. In particular, the forming guide unit may have geometric features at least substantially similar to the geometry of the forming unit. The forming guide unit may be arranged on the side of the support surface facing the forming unit, particularly above the support surface, or on the side of the support surface away from the forming unit, particularly below the support surface.

[0022] The horizontal forming apparatus may include at least one heating unit configured to at least partially heat the forming unit and / or the forming guide unit, particularly for inputting heat into the seam area of ​​the packaging material web. Specifically, the heating unit is configured to input heat into the packaging material web, particularly the wrapping paper, upstream of the seal, particularly the longitudinal seal. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the heating unit is configured to preheat the packaging material web, particularly the wrapping paper, to seal the packaging material web, particularly the wrapping paper, particularly at the forming guide unit, particularly as an alternative to sealing by the longitudinal sealing unit, and / or to ensure increased heat input, particularly in the area of ​​the support profile of the forming guide unit. The heating unit may be implemented, in particular, as a heating coil, heating cylinder, heating plate, thick-film heating element, or another heating unit that is advantageous to those skilled in the art. Preferably, the heating unit is arranged at the forming unit and / or the forming guide unit, and particularly in direct contact with the forming unit and / or the forming guide unit. Specifically, the horizontal forming apparatus may include multiple heating units, wherein at least one corresponding heating unit may be assigned to the forming unit and at least one corresponding additional heating unit may be assigned to the forming guide unit. Specifically, the heating units are arranged on the sides of the forming unit and / or the forming guide unit opposite to the contact surface of the packaging material web, particularly the wrapping paper. Furthermore, it is conceivable that heating units are arranged parallel to the surface of the forming unit, particularly spaced apart from the forming unit, and that the heating units heat the packaging material web from the inside. Specifically, the forming unit and / or the forming guide unit are configured to transfer the heat energy received from the heating units to the packaging material web, particularly the wrapping paper. Specifically, the forming unit, particularly the forming element of the forming unit, and / or the forming guide unit, particularly the forming element of the forming guide unit, are made of thermally conductive material, particularly metal. Specifically, the forming unit and / or the forming guide unit are configured at the contact surfaces with the packaging material web, particularly the wrapping paper, to transfer heat energy provided by the heating unit to the packaging material web, especially in the seam area. In particular, at least one sealing layer of the packaging material web, particularly the wrapping paper, can be activated by heat input in the seam area. Advantageously, the packaging material web, particularly the wrapping paper, can be effectively sealed.

[0023] Furthermore, the horizontal forming apparatus may also include at least one air pressure unit configured to apply negative and / or positive pressure to the packaging material web at the forming unit and / or the forming guide unit. "Negative pressure" should be understood specifically as air pressure below the ambient air pressure of the horizontal forming apparatus. "Positive pressure" should be understood specifically as air pressure above the ambient air pressure of the horizontal forming apparatus. The air pressure unit may be implemented as a blower, a suction device, or other air pressure unit that is advantageous to those skilled in the art. Specifically, the horizontal forming apparatus may include multiple air pressure units, wherein at least one corresponding air pressure unit may be assigned to the forming unit and at least one corresponding additional air pressure unit may be assigned to the forming guide unit. Specifically, the air pressure units are arranged on the sides of the forming unit and / or the forming guide unit opposite to the contact surface with the packaging material web, particularly with the packaging paper. Preferably, the forming unit, particularly the forming element of the forming unit, and / or the forming guide unit, particularly the forming guide element of the forming guide unit, is implemented as at least partially perforated, particularly made of a porous material. Specifically, the airflow generated by the air pressure unit can at least partially flow through the forming unit and / or the forming guide unit. Preferably, the air pressure unit is configured to generate negative pressure for drawing the packaging material web into the forming unit and / or the forming guide unit, particularly to achieve low-wrinkle support of the packaging material web at the forming unit and / or the forming guide unit. Preferably, the air pressure unit is configured to generate positive pressure to create an air cushion at the forming unit and / or the forming guide unit, particularly for achieving low-friction transport of the packaging paper along the forming unit and / or along the forming guide unit. Preferably, the air pressure unit can switch between generating negative pressure and generating positive pressure, particularly depending on the application, for example, depending on the packaging material used. Advantageously, it is possible to transport the packaging paper in a particularly gentle manner on the material. Advantageously, a packaging machine that allows packaging products in a particularly gentle manner on the material can be provided.

[0024] The horizontal forming apparatus and / or packaging machine according to the invention should not be limited to the applications and embodiments described herein. In particular, to achieve the functions described herein, the horizontal forming apparatus and / or packaging machine according to the invention may include a plurality of individual elements, components, and units in a number different from those given herein. Furthermore, regarding the range of values ​​given in this disclosure, values ​​within said range should also be considered disclosed and applied as required. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Other advantages will become apparent from the following description of the accompanying drawings. An exemplary embodiment of the invention is illustrated in the drawings. The drawings, description, and claims contain multiple features in combination. Those skilled in the art will also purposefully consider these features individually and will find other advantageous combinations.

[0026] In the attached diagram:

[0027] Figure 1 A portion of the packaging machine according to the present invention is shown in the schematic diagram.

[0028] Figure 2 A schematic diagram is shown. Figure 1 A perspective view of the horizontal forming apparatus of the packaging machine according to the invention.

[0029] Figure 3 A rear view of the horizontal forming apparatus according to the present invention is shown in schematic diagram.

[0030] Figure 4 A schematic diagram taken from below at a slightly tilted angle shows another perspective view of the horizontal forming apparatus according to the invention, without the supporting surface of the horizontal forming apparatus according to the invention. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Figure 1 A portion of a packaging machine 50 is shown schematically. The packaging machine 50 is implemented as a horizontal flow packaging machine. The packaging machine 50 includes a horizontal forming device 10, which includes at least one forming unit 12, particularly without rollers, a forming shoulder, and at least one support unit 78 (see...). Figure 2 The forming unit 12 and the support unit 78 are configured to form the packaging material web 14, particularly the paper web, into the packaging material tube 16, wherein the forming unit 12 and the support unit 78 together define guide gaps 122, 124 (see...). Figure 3The packaging material web 14 can be guided through the guide gaps 122, 124. It is also conceivable that the horizontal forming device 10 alternatively or additionally includes a cover sheet unit that covers the product 24 at least during transport of the product 24. The cover sheet unit can have the same function as the support unit 78. In particular, the horizontal forming device 10 is configured to guide the packaging material web 14, particularly the packaging material tube 16, along the horizontal transport direction 38 of the packaging machine 50, particularly extending at least generally perpendicular to the direction of gravity. Preferably, the horizontal forming device 10 is at least configured to shape and / or guide the packaging material web 14, which is preferably at least substantially formed as a paper web. The packaging material web 14 is preferably made of paper. Preferably, the horizontal forming device 10 can be additionally or at least alternatively configured to shape and / or guide the packaging material web, which is at least substantially made of a material different from paper, such as a synthetic material. Specifically, the packaging material web 14, particularly the packaging material tube 16, is configured for packaging product 24, especially for encapsulating product 24, which is particularly food. The packaging material web 14 is preferably implemented as a packaging paper web.

[0032] Preferably, the packaging machine 50 includes at least one packaging material unwinding unit 54 and / or an auxiliary unwinding unit (not shown in detail here), which is configured to receive packaging material web 14, particularly as a packaging material roll 56. Preferably, the packaging material unwinding unit 54 is configured to unwind the packaging material web 14, particularly to convey the packaging material web 14 to a packaging material supply unit 58 of the packaging machine 50. The packaging material supply unit 58 is preferably configured to supply the packaging material web 14 to the horizontal forming device 10, particularly to the forming unit 12. The packaging material supply unit 58 may have multiple components, particularly known to those skilled in the art, such as at least one swing arm, at least one centering detector, at least one web edge control, and / or at least one printing unit for printing the packaging material web 14.

[0033] Specifically, the packaging material tube 16 is configured to encapsulate the product 24 to be packaged. Specifically, the packaging machine 50 includes at least one product supply unit 60, particularly a conveyor belt, drive chain, or the like, configured to transport the product 24 to be packaged by the encapsulating material tube 16 to the area of ​​the horizontal forming device 10, particularly the area of ​​the forming unit 12. Preferably, the product 24 can be transported along the transport direction 38 by means of the product supply unit 60.

[0034] Preferably, the packaging machine 50 includes at least one longitudinal sealing unit 64, which is configured to create a longitudinal sealing joint of the packaging material tube 16, particularly by applying pressure to the material of the packaging material tube 16 and / or by introducing heat into the material of the packaging material tube 16, the longitudinal sealing joint extending at least generally parallel to the transport direction 38. The longitudinal sealing unit 64 is arranged downstream of the horizontal forming device 10 along the transport direction 38, particularly the forming guide unit 18 of the horizontal forming device 10 (see...). Figure 3 and Figure 4 Downstream of the packaging material tube 16. Preferably, the longitudinal sealing unit 64 includes at least one pair of sealing rollers 66, 68, which are particularly heatable, have irregular structures and / or are pressure-resistant, and are configured to transport the packaging material tube 16, particularly via rotation. Preferably, the longitudinal sealing unit 64 includes multiple pairs of sealing rollers 66, 68, wherein at least the first pair of sealing rollers 66 arranged downstream of the horizontal forming device 10 along the transport direction 38 is implemented as unheated, particularly for the unheated transport of the packaging material tube 16. Preferably, the packaging machine 50 includes at least one transverse sealing unit 70, which is configured to create a transverse sealing joint of the packaging material tube 16, particularly after a corresponding product 24, particularly by applying pressure to the material of the packaging material tube 16 and / or by introducing heat into the material of the packaging material tube 16, the transverse sealing joint extending particularly along at least generally perpendicular to the transport direction 38 of the packaging material tube 16. Preferably, the transverse sealing unit 70 is configured to divide the packaging material tube 16 into individual packages, each of which specifically encapsulates at least one product 24. The transverse sealing unit 70 is arranged downstream of the longitudinal sealing unit 64 along the transport direction 38. The forming unit 12 is preferably configured to deflect the packaging material web 14. In particular, the packaging material supply unit 58 is configured to supply the packaging material web 14 to the forming unit 12 along a direction extending transversely to, and in particular at least substantially perpendicular to, the transport direction 38 and at least substantially parallel to the gravity direction 52, particularly the infeed direction 20.

[0035] Figure 2The diagram shows a horizontal forming device 10 in a state of being disassembled from a packaging machine 50. Preferably, the horizontal forming device 50 includes at least one forming guide unit 18, particularly the aforementioned forming guide unit, and in particular another forming shoulder, the forming guide unit 18 being configured to further guide the packaging material tube 16 transversely to the introduction direction 20 of the packaging material web 14 at the forming unit 12, while maintaining the material tension generated by the forming unit 12, particularly a uniform material tension. The forming unit 12 preferably includes at least one folded edge 72 around which the packaging material web 14 can be deflected. Preferably, the folded edge 72 is implemented as a shoulder edge and the forming unit 12 is implemented as a forming shoulder. In particular, the forming unit 12 is implemented without rollers for deflecting the packaging material web 14. Preferably, the forming unit 12 is configured to deflect the packaging material web 14 at the folded edge 72 in a direction transverse to the introduction direction 20 of the packaging material web 14 and transverse to the transport direction 38 of the packaging material tube 16. Preferably, the folded edge 72 extends at least substantially perpendicular to the lead-in direction 20 and transport direction 38 of the packaging material web 14. Preferably, the folded edge 72 of the forming unit 12 and / or at least one additional folded edge 110 are configured to generate uniform material tension in the packaging material web 14. Preferably, the folded edge 72 is at least partially located at one of the forming elements 34, 36, and at least partially located at the other of the forming elements 34, 36. The additional folded edge 110 is preferably at least partially located at one of the forming elements 34, 36, and at least partially located at the other of the forming elements 34, 36. The forming elements 34, 36 are preferably implemented as two separate parts that are mirror-symmetrical to each other.

[0036] The forming guide unit 18 is preferably configured to further guide the packaging material web 16 along at least generally perpendicular to the infeed direction 20 of the packaging material web 14 at the forming unit 12, particularly along the transport direction 38, while maintaining uniform material tension generated by the folded edge 72 and / or by additional folded edges 110. Specifically, the forming guide unit 18 is arranged downstream of the forming unit 12 along the transport direction 38, particularly upstream of the longitudinal sealing unit 64. Preferably, the forming guide unit 18 is implemented without rollers for deflecting the packaging material tube 16, and is particularly implemented as an additional forming shoulder.

[0037] Preferably, the forming guide unit 18 is implemented separately from the forming unit 12, particularly arranged separately. Preferably, the forming guide unit 18 is implemented as a discrete component or discrete sub-assembly, particularly consisting of two symmetrical components. Specifically, the forming guide unit 18 is arranged spaced apart from the forming unit 12 along a direction extending at least generally perpendicular to the transport direction 38, particularly along the introduction direction 20 of the packaging material web 14, and / or along the transport direction 38. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the forming guide unit 18 and the forming unit 12 are implemented as an integral unit, particularly as a forming guide protrusion of the forming unit 12.

[0038] Preferably, the horizontal forming apparatus 10 includes at least one support surface 22, particularly a work plate, on which the product 24 to be packaged can be transported. The forming guide unit 18 is preferably arranged, at least substantially, on the side 26 of the support surface 22 facing the forming unit 12 (see [link]). Figure 2 and Figure 3 However, it is also conceivable that the forming guide unit 18 is at least substantially arranged on the side 28 of the support surface 22 opposite to the forming unit 12. The support surface 22 preferably forms a cargo track on which the product 24 can be transported and, in particular, supplied to the forming unit 12, the support unit 78, and / or the forming guide unit 18 for encapsulation by the packaging material web 14, especially the packaging material tube 16. The support surface 22 preferably extends at least substantially parallel to the transport direction 38. Preferably, the product supply unit 60, the longitudinal sealing unit 64 (especially the sealing rollers 66, 68), and / or the transverse sealing unit 70 are at least partially arranged within the support surface 22 and / or at least partially extend through the support surface 22. Preferably, the rotation axes 74, 76 of the sealing rollers 66, 68 of the longitudinal sealing unit 64 extend at least substantially perpendicular to the support surface 22 (see...). Figure 1 Preferably, the forming unit 12 is arranged on the side 26 of the support surface 22 on which the product 24 can be transported and which faces the packaging material unwinding unit 54 and the packaging material supply unit 58.

[0039] Figure 3A rear view of the horizontal forming apparatus 10 is shown, particularly its appearance viewed relative to the transport direction 38. Preferably, the forming unit 12 includes at least one forming channel 82 configured to guide the packaging material tube 16 along the transport direction 38. In particular, the longitudinal axis 84 of the forming channel 82 extends at least substantially parallel to the transport direction 38. The forming channel 82 preferably at least partially defines guide gaps 122, 124, particularly two guide gaps 122, 124. The forming channel 82 is preferably arranged at the forming unit 12 on the side of the forming unit 12 facing the support unit 78 and / or facing the support surface 22, and is particularly implemented integrally with the forming unit 12. The support unit 78 is preferably at least partially arranged in the region of the forming channel 82 of the forming unit 12. Preferably, the support unit 78 is implemented to at least partially correspond to the forming channel 82 of the forming unit 12. Specifically, the guide gaps 122, 124, particularly the two guide gaps 122, 124, are defined by the forming channel 82 of the forming unit 12, and at least partially by the portion of the support unit 78 arranged in the region of the forming channel 82 of the forming unit 12. Preferably, the distance between the wall 46 of the forming channel 82 of the forming unit 12 and the outer surfaces 106, 108 of the portion of the support unit 78 arranged in the region of the forming channel 82 of the forming unit 12, particularly the minimum distance, defines the guide gaps 122, 124, particularly the gap width of the two guide gaps 122, 124, particularly the maximum gap width. The support unit 78 is at least partially arranged within the forming channel 82 of the forming unit 12. Preferably, the support unit 78 extends at least partially into the forming channel 82 of the forming unit 12. The support unit 78 may include at least one U-shaped support element (not shown here), particularly a U-shaped support element (not shown here) formed corresponding to the U-shaped embodiment of the forming channel 82 of the forming unit 12; or the support unit 78 may include at least two, particularly L-shaped support elements 128, 130, particularly support legs, particularly two L-shaped support elements 128, 130 formed corresponding to the U-shaped embodiment of the forming channel 82 of the forming unit 12. Preferably, during the forming of the packaging material tube 16, the packaging material web 14, particularly in a manner known to those skilled in the art, is guided through the forming unit 12, particularly the forming channel 82 of the forming unit 12, between it and the support unit 78. The forming channel 82 extends, particularly along the transport direction 38, at least from before the forming unit 12 to the forming guide unit 18. Preferably, the forming channel 82 has a larger cross-section than the product 24 to be packaged. Preferably, the product 24 can be transported through the forming channel 82. Preferably, the forming unit 12 is configured to form a packaging material tube 16 at least partially around the support unit 78, particularly around the outer edge of the support elements 128, 130.Specifically, the support unit 78 is configured to support the packaging material tube 16.

[0040] The forming unit 12 preferably includes at least two forming profile edges 80 that extend laterally to the folded edge 72, particularly in a V-shape, starting from the folded edge 72. Specifically, the packaging material web 14 can be reshaped into a packaging material tube 16 around the forming profile edges 80 and around another folded edge 110. Preferably, the forming profile edges 80 extend from the folded edge 72 to the other folded edge 110 along the direction of travel of the packaging material web 14 and / or along the outer contour of the supplied product 24, particularly extending to the forming channel 82 of the forming unit 12 and / or to the support unit 78. Preferably, the forming guide unit 18 includes a forming guide profile 86, particularly a three-dimensional forming guide profile 86, configured to support the guided packaging material tube 16, particularly at least the outer edge of the packaging material tube 16, especially for maintaining uniform material tension. Preferably, the forming guide unit 18 includes at least two forming guide contours 86, which are arranged in particular in a mirror-symmetric manner with respect to an imaginary plane of symmetry extending at least substantially parallel to a transport direction 38, which extends particularly within the imaginary plane of symmetry and extends along a folded edge 72 at least substantially perpendicular to the forming unit 12. Preferably, the forming guide unit 18 is implemented in a mirror-symmetric manner, particularly with respect to the imaginary plane of symmetry. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the forming guide unit 18 and / or the forming unit 12 are implemented in an asymmetrical manner.

[0041] Preferably, the horizontal forming device 10 includes at least one adjusting unit 30, 32 (see...) Figure 2To achieve different packaging material tube geometries, the adjustment units 30, 32 are configured to support at least the forming unit 12, the support unit 78, and / or the forming guide unit 18, so that the forming unit 12, the support unit 78, and / or the forming guide unit 18 are adjustable, particularly in different adjustment planes. Preferably, the horizontal forming device 10 includes at least two adjustment units 30, 32, wherein one adjustment unit 30 is configured to support at least the forming unit 12, the support unit 78, and / or the forming guide unit 18, so that it can be adjusted along an adjustment direction 88 extending at least generally perpendicular to the transport direction 38 and / or the support surface 22, and at least one additional adjustment unit 32 is configured to support at least the forming unit 12, the support unit 78, and / or the forming guide unit 18, so that it can be adjusted along a direction extending at least generally parallel to the support surface 22. In particular, different packaging material tube geometries may be required for packaging different products 24. Specifically, the packaging machine 50 is configured to package different products 24, particularly different products 24 of different sizes. Specifically, different packaging material tube geometries may be required to package different products 24, said different products 24 having different maximum extension dimensions at least substantially perpendicular to the support surface 22, particularly different heights, and / or different maximum extension dimensions at least substantially parallel to the support surface 22 and at least substantially perpendicular to the transport direction 38, particularly different widths. Specifically, the maximum extension dimension of the packaging material tube 16 at least substantially perpendicular to the support surface 22, particularly the height of the packaging material tube 16, and / or the maximum extension dimension of the packaging material tube 16 at least substantially parallel to the support surface 22 and at least substantially perpendicular to the transport direction 38, particularly the width of the packaging material tube 16, can be adjusted via adjusting the forming unit 12, the support unit 78, and / or the forming guide unit 18. Specifically, an additional adjusting unit 62 (see...) can also be provided. Figure 2 To correct uneven tension in the packaging material web 14, the forming guide unit 18 can be adjusted by means of the additional adjustment unit 62 along a direction extending transverse to the transport direction 38 and at least generally parallel to the support surface 22. Specifically, the forming unit 12, support unit 78, and / or forming guide unit 18 are supported such that they are adjustable as a whole component or as a whole sub-assembly. It is conceivable that the forming unit 12, support unit 78, and / or forming guide unit 18 themselves can be adjustable, particularly the components of the forming unit 12 relative to each other, the components of the support unit 78 relative to each other, and / or the components of the forming guide unit 18 relative to each other.

[0042] Specifically, the adjustment unit 30 includes at least one linear guide 90 configured to support the forming unit 12, the support unit 78, and / or the forming guide unit 18 so that the forming unit 12, the support unit 78, and / or the forming guide unit 18 can move linearly along the adjustment direction 88. Preferably, the additional adjustment unit 32 includes at least one additional linear guide 112 configured to support the forming unit 12, the support unit 78, and / or the forming guide unit 18 so that the forming unit 12, the support unit 78, and / or the forming guide unit 18 can extend along an additional adjustment direction 114 that is at least substantially perpendicular to the adjustment direction 88 and at least substantially parallel to the transport direction 38 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 2 Linear movement. Preferably, the additional adjustment unit 62 is configured to support the forming guide unit 18 so that the forming guide unit 18 can move linearly at least along adjustment directions 92, 116 extending at least generally parallel to the support surface 22, and particularly transverse to the transport direction 38. Preferably, the adjustment unit 30, the additional adjustment unit 32, and the additional adjustment unit 62 are implemented as manual adjustment units for manually, particularly relative to each other, adjusting the forming unit 12, the support unit 78, and / or the forming guide unit 18. Alternatively or additionally, it is also conceivable that at least one of the adjustment units 30, 32, 62 includes at least one drivable adjustment element, particularly a servo motor, configured for automatically adjusting the forming unit 12, the support unit 78, and / or the forming guide unit 18.

[0043] Preferably, the forming unit 12 includes at least two forming elements 34, 36, particularly forming shoulders, which are supported to be adjustable relative to each other, particularly to allow the forming unit 12 to accommodate the maximum width of the product 24. Preferably, the forming elements 34, 36 of the forming unit 12 are supported to be linearly movable relative to each other, particularly adjustable linearly movable relative to each other along a direction extending at least generally parallel to the fold edge 72, particularly at least generally parallel to the fold edge traveling surface. Specifically, an additional adjusting unit 32 includes at least one lateral support element 94 configured to support the forming elements 34, 36 of the forming unit 12 so that the forming elements 34, 36 are at least linearly movable relative to each other. Specifically, the forming elements 34, 36 of the forming unit 12 together form the fold edge 72, particularly the fold edge traveling surface. Specifically, the forming elements 34, 36 of the forming unit 12 are supported to be movable toward and away from each other, particularly along a direction extending at least generally parallel to the fold edge 72. Preferably, the forming elements 34 and 36 of the forming unit 12 together form the forming channel 82 of the forming unit 12. Specifically, a corresponding forming element of the forming elements 34 and 36 of the forming unit 12 respectively forms at least one forming contour edge 80 of the forming unit 12. The additional adjustment unit 32 preferably includes at least one intermediate element 96, and in particular multiple intermediate elements 96, for filling the space between two forming elements 34 and 36 of the forming unit 12 that are already far apart from each other, particularly to ensure different product widths. However, it is also conceivable that the adjustment unit 32 may be implemented without intermediate elements 96, and in particular without multiple intermediate elements 96, and the forming elements 34 and 36 may be arranged spaced apart from each other without intermediate elements 96, in particular without multiple intermediate elements 96, in order to achieve adjustment of the position of the forming elements 34 and 36.

[0044] Preferably, the forming guide unit 18 includes at least two forming elements 118, 120 supported for adjustment relative to each other, particularly in a linear and / or pivotal manner. Preferably, the forming elements 118, 120 of the forming guide unit 18 are supported for adjustment relative to each other, at least in a linear manner. Alternatively or additionally, the forming elements 118, 120 of the forming guide unit 18 may be supported for adjustment relative to each other, particularly in a pivotal plane extending at least generally parallel to the support surface 22, particularly for adjusting the width of the packaging material tube 16. In particular, in an alternative embodiment, the forming elements 118, 120 of the forming guide unit 18 may be supported for pivotal movement at the end regions 98 of the forming elements 118, 120 of the forming guide unit 18 opposite to the forming unit 12 along the transport direction 38. Preferably, in an alternative embodiment, the end regions 98 of the forming elements 118, 120 of the forming guide unit 18 can be implemented separately from the rest of the forming guide unit 18, particularly installed separately. Specifically, a corresponding forming element of the forming elements 118, 120 of the forming guide unit 18 respectively forms at least one forming guide profile 86 of the forming guide unit 18. Preferably, the forming elements 118, 120 of the forming guide unit 18 are arranged mirror-symmetrically with respect to an imaginary plane of symmetry, and are in particular supported.

[0045] Preferably, the forming elements 118, 120 of the forming guide unit 18 form a guide region 40, which narrows in a V-shape in the transport direction 38 and is configured to bring together the seam areas of the packaging material tube 16 to be sealed together. Specifically, the guide region 40 is configured to bring together the longitudinal sealing seam areas of the packaging material tube 16. In particular, the distance between the forming elements 118, 120 of the forming guide unit 18 is greater in the end region 100 facing the forming unit 12 in a direction extending at least generally parallel to the support surface 22 and at least generally perpendicular to the transport direction 38 than in the end region 98 facing away from the forming unit 12. The seam areas of the packaging material tube 16, particularly the areas where the packaging material web 14, particularly the packaging paper, is sealed, are specifically for creating sealing seams. Specifically, the guide region 40 is configured to bring the seam areas together so that, for sealing purposes, the seam areas can be transported adjacent to each other between corresponding sealing rollers 66, 68 of a pair of sealing rollers 66, 68. Preferably, the guide region 40 terminates in the end region 98 away from the forming unit 12 at a support profile 102, which is formed by the forming elements 118, 120 of the forming guide unit 18 and is configured to support the packaging material tube 16, particularly the gathered seam areas, especially during further transport to the longitudinal sealing unit 64.

[0046] The horizontal forming device 10 includes at least one compensation unit 126 (see Figures 2 to 4 The compensation unit 126 is configured to at least movably support the forming unit 12 and / or the support unit 78, such that the forming unit 12 and the support unit 78 are movable relative to each other at least during the forming of the packaging material tube 16, particularly to facilitate compensating movement of the forming unit 12 and / or the support unit 78 relative to each other during the forming of the packaging material tube 16. It is conceivable that, in order to facilitate compensating movement of the forming unit 12 and / or the support unit 78 relative to each other during the forming of the packaging material tube 16, only the forming unit 12 is movably supported by the compensation unit 126, only the support unit 78 is movably supported by the compensation unit 126, or both the forming unit 12 and the support unit 78 are movably supported by the compensation unit 126. In the horizontal forming apparatus 10 Figures 2 to 4 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the compensation unit 126 is exemplarily configured to movably support the support unit 78, in particular, in addition to the adjustment unit 30 and the additional adjustment unit 62. In other exemplary embodiments of the horizontal forming apparatus 10, not shown here, it is also conceivable that the forming unit 12 is supported by the compensation unit 126 so that it can move relative to the support unit 78, or that the forming unit 12 and the support unit 78 are supported so that they can move relative to each other.

[0047] The compensation unit 126 preferably includes an adjustment function for adjusting the width of the guide gaps 122, 124, and in particular the gaps of the plurality of guide gaps 122, 124. The compensation unit 126 is preferably configured to movably support the support unit 78 such that the support unit 78 can move relative to the forming unit 12 during operation of the packaging machine 50, which includes the horizontal forming device 10. The compensation unit 126 is preferably configured to movably support the support unit 78 such that the support unit 78 can move relative to the forming unit 12 when the packaging material web 14 travels through the guide gaps 122, 124, and in particular the plurality of guide gaps 122, 124, especially when the packaging material web 14 travels through the guide gaps 122, 124, and in particular the plurality of guide gaps 122, 124, for example due to the connecting elements arranged on the packaging material web 14, particularly adhesive splicing tape, or due to the maximum thickness change of the packaging material web 14 caused by at least a temporary double-layer packaging material web 14 or the like after replacement of the packaging material web 14 or the like. The support unit 78 can be actively moved by means of the compensation unit 126, or the support unit 78 can be movably supported by means of the compensation unit 126, such that the support unit 78 moves passively relative to the forming unit 12 when the packaging material web 14 travels through the guide gaps 122, 124, particularly the plurality of guide gaps 122, 124, especially due to, for example, due to the connecting elements arranged on the packaging material web 14, particularly the adhesive splicing tape, or the like, or due to the maximum thickness change of the packaging material web 14 after replacement of the packaging material web 14, or the like. Due to the movable support of the compensation unit 126, the support unit 78 can perform avoidance movement, especially in the case of the maximum thickness change of the packaging material web 14. In order to enable the compensation movement during the forming of the packaging material tube 16, the compensation unit 126 can be configured to movably support the entire support unit 78 or can be configured to movably support only the individual elements of the support unit 78.

[0048] The compensation unit 126 is configured to movably support at least one of the support elements 128, 130 of the support unit 78, particularly a corresponding one of the support elements 128, 130, by means of at least one spring-preloaded compensation element 132, 134 of the compensation unit 126 (see...). Figure 2 and Figure 4However, it is also conceivable that, in an alternative embodiment of the horizontal forming apparatus 10 (not shown here), the compensation unit 126 is configured to movably support at least one of the forming elements 34, 36 of the forming unit 12, particularly a corresponding one of the forming elements 34, 36, by means of at least one spring-preloaded compensation element 132, 134 of the compensation unit 126. Preferably, at least one side of the spring-preloaded compensation element 132, 134, particularly the corresponding spring-preloaded compensation element 132, 134, is arranged at the support element 128, 130, particularly the corresponding support element 128, 130, particularly fixed to the support element 128, 130, particularly the corresponding support element 128, 130. However, it is also conceivable that the spring-preloaded compensation element 132, 134, particularly the corresponding spring-preloaded compensation element 132, 134, and the support element 128, 130, particularly the corresponding support element 128, 130, are implemented in an integrated manner. The support elements 128 and 130 are preferably supported by spring-preloaded compensating elements 132 and 134, in particular, to allow for flexible movement. Preferably, the support elements 128 and 130 are supported by spring-preloaded compensating elements 132 and 134, in particular, to allow for adjustment of the basic position or starting point of movement of the support elements 128 and 130, and in particular, to be flexibly adjustable.

[0049] The compensation unit 126 includes at least one transmission device 136, 138, particularly at least one guided transmission device, for realizing compensating movement of the support unit 78 relative to the forming unit 12. The transmission devices 136, 138 can be implemented, for example, as eccentric transmission devices allowing compensating movement of the support unit 78 relative to the forming unit 12, wherein at least one eccentric element of the eccentric transmission device can be implemented as a spring-preloaded compensation element 132, 134. The transmission devices 136, 138 can also be implemented as coupled transmission devices allowing compensating movement of the support unit 78 relative to the forming unit 12, wherein at least one coupled element of the coupled transmission device can be implemented as a spring-preloaded compensation element 132, 134. However, it is also conceivable that the transmission devices 136, 138 have different embodiments that are considered advantageous by those skilled in the art. Preferably, the support elements 128, 130 of the support unit 78 are arranged, particularly fixed, on at least one transmission device element, particularly on the spring-preloaded compensation elements 132, 134, preferably corresponding spring-preloaded compensation elements 132, 134. Specifically, the support elements 128, 130 of the support unit 78 are movably supported by the transmission devices 136, 138 of the compensation unit 126. Preferably, the compensation unit 126 includes at least two transmission devices 136, 138, wherein a corresponding one of the transmission devices 136, 138 is assigned to one of the support elements 128, 130.

[0050] The transmission devices 136 and 138 are configured to achieve compensating movements along at least two directions 140 and 142 extending laterally to each other. Preferably, the transmission devices 136 and 138 are configured to achieve compensating movements along directions extending at least generally parallel to the transport direction 38 and along directions extending at least generally perpendicular to the transport direction 38. Preferably, the transmission devices 136 and 138 are configured to achieve a superposition of translation and rotation. Preferably, the transmission devices 136 and 138 are implemented as guided transmission devices, particularly parallelogram guided structures. However, it is also conceivable that the transmission devices 136 and 138 have different designs that are advantageous to those skilled in the art and are suitable for achieving compensating movements along at least two directions 140 and 142 extending laterally to each other. Preferably, a corresponding one of the transmission devices 136 and 138 is configured to support the compensating movement of a corresponding one of the support elements 128 and 130 of the support unit 78 relative to the forming unit 12. Preferably, in order to achieve compensatory movement of the corresponding support elements 128, 130 relative to the forming unit 12, the corresponding support elements 128, 130 can move away from the forming unit 12 and along the transport direction 38 by means of the corresponding transmission devices 136, 138.

[0051] The compensation unit 126 includes at least one preload element 144, 146, particularly at least two preload elements 144, 146, which generate a preload force resisting the compensating movement of the support unit 78. Preferably, the preload elements 144, 146, particularly the corresponding preload elements 144, 146, are configured to generate a preload force toward a starting position from which the corresponding support elements 128, 130 of the support unit 78 can be moved to perform the compensating movement. The preload elements 144, 146 can be implemented as a helical tension spring, a helical compression spring, a leaf spring, an elastomer, a gas compression spring, a hydraulic spring, spring steel, or various spring elements that are advantageous to those skilled in the art. Preferably, the preload elements 144, 146, particularly the corresponding preload elements 144, 146, act directly or indirectly on the compensation elements 132, 134, particularly the corresponding compensation elements 132, 134, which are arranged at the support elements 128, 130, particularly the corresponding support elements 128, 130 of the support unit 78.

[0052] A support unit 78 is arranged at the forming unit 12 and supported by a compensation unit 126 so that it can move relative to the forming unit 12. The support elements 128, 130 are preferably implemented and / or arranged at the forming unit 12 in a mirror-symmetrical manner. Preferably, the support unit 78 is arranged at the forming unit 12 via the compensation unit 126 (see [link]). Figures 2 to 4 Preferably, one of the support elements 128, 130 of the support unit 78 is arranged at one of the spring-preloaded compensation elements 132, 134 at one of the forming elements 34, 36 of the forming unit 12. Specifically, at least one of the support elements 128, 130 is supported by the compensation unit 126 so that it is movable relative to one of the forming elements 34, 36. Preferably, the other of the support elements 128, 130 is arranged at the other of the forming elements 34, 36 of the forming unit 12 via the spring-preloaded compensation element 132, 134 of the compensation unit 126. Specifically, the other of the support elements 128, 130 is supported by the compensation unit 126 so that it is movable relative to the other of the forming elements 34, 36. However, it is also conceivable that the support unit 78 is arranged on the support surface 22 and supported by means of the compensation unit 126 so as to be movable relative to the forming unit 12, in particular so as to enable the support unit 78 to perform compensating movement relative to the forming unit 12 during the forming of the packaging material tube 16, or the forming unit 12 and the support unit 78 are arranged on the support surface 22 and supported by means of the compensation unit 126 so as to be movable relative to each other, in particular so as to enable the forming unit 12 and the support unit 78 to perform compensating movement relative to each other during the forming of the packaging material tube 16.

[0053] The compensation unit 126 preferably includes at least one support element 148, 150, which is fastened to at least one of the forming elements 34, 36 of the forming unit 12, wherein at least one of the support elements 128, 130 of the support unit 78 is movably supported at the support elements 148, 150, particularly by means of a spring-preloaded parallelogram guide structure of the compensation unit 126. Preferably, the spring-preloaded compensation elements 132, 134 are components of the parallelogram guide structure. In particular, the support elements 148, 150 have a main extension axis that extends at least substantially parallel to the support surface 22 and / or the transport direction 38. A corresponding one of the support elements 128, 130 is connected to a corresponding one of the support elements 148, 150 via a corresponding one of the transmission devices 136, 138, wherein one of the support elements 148, 150 is fastened to one of the forming elements 34, 36. The support elements 128 and 130 are preferably movably supported at the respective bearing elements 148 and 150 via a corresponding one of the spring-preloaded compensation elements 132 and 134, and the respective bearing elements 148 and 150 are fastened to one of the forming elements 34 and 36.

[0054] Alternatively or additionally, the compensation unit 126 includes at least one actuator 152, 154 (made by... Figure 2 (As shown by the dashed lines in the diagram), the actuators 152, 154 are configured to actively move the support unit 78 during the forming of the packaging material tube 16, particularly so that the support unit 78 can compensate for movement relative to the forming unit 12 during the forming of the packaging material tube 16. Preferably, the compensation unit 126 includes actuators 152, 154 for each support element 128, 130, the actuators 152, 154 (attached to or replacing the preload elements 144, 146 and / or compensation elements 132, 134) being operatively arranged between the support elements 148, 150 and the support elements 128, 130. It is conceivable that the compensation unit 126, particularly in embodiments of the compensation unit 126 having actuators 152, 154, includes at least one sensor element 104 (made by... Figure 1 (As shown by the dashed line in the figure) is used to detect the web parameters of the packaging material, wherein actuators 152 and 154, in particular multiple actuators 152 and 154, can be actuated according to the detected packaging material parameters.

[0055] Adjustment unit 30 and / or additional adjustment unit 32 are configured to support forming unit 12, support unit 78, and compensation unit 126, such that forming unit 12, support unit 78, and compensation unit 126 can be adjusted together relative to support surface 22. Preferably, forming unit 12, support unit 78, and compensation unit 126 are supported so that they can be adjusted in at least one adjustment plane extending on the side 26 of support surface 22 facing forming unit 12. In particular, forming unit 12, support unit 78, and compensation unit 126 are supported so that they are adjustable as a whole sub-assembly. Preferably, adjustment unit 30 and / or additional adjustment unit 32 are configured to support forming unit 12, support unit 78, and compensation unit 126, such that they can be translated and / or rotated. Preferably, particularly for adjusting the height of the packaging material tube 16, the adjustment unit 30 is configured to support the forming unit 12, the support unit 78, and the compensation unit 126, such that they can move together translationally along an adjustment direction 88 extending at least substantially perpendicular to the support surface 22. Preferably, an additional adjustment unit 32 is configured to support the forming unit 12, the support unit 78, and the compensation unit 126, such that they can move together translationally along an additional adjustment direction 114 extending at least substantially perpendicular to the adjustment direction 88 and at least substantially parallel to the transport direction 38.

Claims

1. A horizontal forming apparatus having at least one forming unit (12) and at least one support unit (78), the forming unit (12) and the support unit (78) being configured to form a packaging material web (14) into a packaging material tube (16), wherein, The forming unit (12) and the support unit (78) together define guide gaps (122, 124) through which the packaging material web (14) can be guided. The horizontal forming device is characterized by including at least one compensation unit (126) configured to movably support the forming unit (12) and / or the support unit (78) such that the forming unit (12) and / or the support unit (78) can compensate for each other's movement during the forming of the packaging material tube (16). The compensation unit (126) is configured to movably support at least one forming element (34, 36) of the forming unit (12) and / or at least one support element (128, 130) of the support unit (78) by means of at least one spring-preloaded compensation element (132, 134) of the compensation unit (126).

2. The horizontal forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The forming unit (12) is a rollerless forming shoulder, the packaging material web (14) is a paper web, and the compensation unit (126) includes at least one transmission device (136, 138) for implementing compensating movements of the forming unit (12) and / or the support unit (78).

3. The horizontal forming apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, The transmission devices (136, 138) are guided transmission devices configured to perform compensating movements along at least two directions (140, 142) that extend laterally to each other.

4. The horizontal forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The compensation unit (126) includes at least one preload element (144, 146) that generates a preload force to resist the compensating movement of the forming unit (12) and / or the support unit (78).

5. The horizontal forming apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The at least one preloaded element (144, 146) is a spring element.

6. The horizontal forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1-3 and 5, characterized in that, The horizontal forming apparatus includes at least one adjusting unit (30, 32) and at least one support surface (22) capable of transporting a product (24) to be packaged on the adjusting unit. The adjusting unit (30, 32) is configured to support the forming unit (12), the support unit (78) and the compensation unit (126) such that the forming unit (12), the support unit (78) and the compensation unit (126) can be adjusted together relative to the support surface (22).

7. The horizontal forming apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, The at least one support surface (22) is a working plate.

8. The horizontal forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1-3, 5, and 7, characterized in that, The support unit (78) is arranged at the forming unit (12) and is supported by the compensation unit (126) so that it can move relative to the forming unit (12).

9. The horizontal forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1-3, 5, and 7, characterized in that, The compensation unit (126) includes at least one bearing element (148, 150), which is fastened to at least one forming element (34, 36) of the forming unit (12), wherein at least one support element (128, 130) of the support unit (78) is movably supported at the bearing element (148, 150).

10. The horizontal forming apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that, At least one support element (128, 130) of the support unit (78) is movably supported at the bearing element (148, 150) by means of a spring-preloaded parallelogram guide structure of the compensation unit (126).

11. The horizontal forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1-3, 5, 7, and 10, characterized in that, The compensation unit (126) includes at least one actuator (152, 154) configured to facilitate compensating movement of the forming unit (12) and / or the support unit (78) relative to each other during the forming of the packaging material tube (16).

12. The horizontal forming apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that, The compensation unit (126) includes at least one sensor element (104) for detecting the web parameters of the packaging material, and the actuators (152, 154) are actuated according to the detected web parameters of the packaging material.

13. A packaging machine having at least one horizontal forming device according to any one of claims 1-12.

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