Method and device for improving the roundness of a tube body and method and device for manufacturing a packaging tube

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for improving the roundness of a tube body (09) with a longitudinal seam (03), in particular a longitudinal weld, for a packaging tube, preferably as part of a packaging tube manufacturing method, wherein the method comprises the following method steps: - transferring an individual tube body (09) to a transport device (10); - transporting the tube body (09) along a transport route (11) using the transport device (10), and wherein it is provided according to the invention that the tube body (09) is subjected to a segmented and / or intermittent radial inward deformation during the transport along the transport route (11) by means of a deformation means (14).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for improving the roundness of a tube blank, hereinafter referred to as a tube body, according to the preamble of claim 1; a method for manufacturing a packaging tube consisting of a tube body and a head for attaching to the tube body, according to claim 9; an apparatus for improving the roundness of a tube body for packaging tube, according to the preamble of claim 11; and finally, an apparatus for manufacturing a packaging tube consisting of a tube body and a head for attaching to the tube body, according to claim 16. Background Technology

[0002] Packaging tubes are typically made of a tube or tube body and a head, wherein the head is connected to the tube or tube body at its axial end. The second axial end of the tube is typically kept open for reverse filling of the packaging tube and is closed and sealed only by a filler or filling machine.

[0003] Pipes or tubes, as long as they have plastic as a base material, are made of plastic laminates, in which different layers of the plastic laminate achieve or improve different functions of the pipe or tube. Thus, barrier layers, layers for achieving sufficient mechanical stability, decorative outer layers, and various other layers can be provided in such laminates, for example.

[0004] Laminates are typically used as a flat initial material, then formed into tubular bodies, and subsequently joined into tubes or continuous tubes by creating a connecting seam, particularly a weld, at the overlapping or butt joint of two opposite ends of the laminate. This connecting seam extends longitudinally and is therefore also called a longitudinal seam. For further processing of such manufactured tubes or continuous tubes, especially for manufacturing packaging tubes, a geometrically rounded cross-section is desired or expected to be as complete or perfect as possible. This roundness is desired or required not only for technical reasons, such as for continued processability within the tube head connection range or filling range, but also for handleability or printing reasons. However, due to the presence of longitudinal seams or welds, the resulting material variations, reinforcements, tensions, and other inhomogeneities result in a more or less noticeable ellipticity or an overall deviation from the circular geometry of the cross-section.

[0005] The problem of tubes or tube bodies lacking roundness or ellipticity is known in the prior art and has been solved by various technical methods.

[0006] For example, apparatuses and methods are known for attempting to minimize ellipticity or improve roundness by thermal post-treatment or temperature application. For example, EP2276622A1, CH695937A5 and other disclosures such as EP2188110A1 are known for such methods.

[0007] CN102909855B also relates to an apparatus for improving the roundness of a continuous hose for a pipe body. The newly welded continuous hose is deformed inward and outward multiple times before isolation to reduce the influence of the weld on the shape or cross-section of the continuous hose. Here, the deformation of the "newly welded hose" and the multiple alternating inward and outward deformations limit the possible degree of deformation and thus make the described high-equipment process effort necessary to positively influence roundness.

[0008] The known solutions have counteracted the ellipticity on the continuous tube, which also affects the tube body isolated from the continuous tube.

[0009] However, it has been found that the known methods for improving the roundness of tubes are insufficient, because, in terms of results, i.e., improvements in roundness, these methods are either inadequate, unreliable, or require too much equipment and process effort to adequately improve roundness. Summary of the Invention

[0010] Therefore, based on the known prior art, the object of the present invention is to provide a method and apparatus that allow for the improvement of the roundness of a tube, preferably made of a plastic laminate, by simple means.

[0011] Regarding the method for improving the roundness of a tube body having a longitudinal seam, particularly a longitudinal weld, for use in packaging tubes, this objective is achieved using the features of claim 1. Regarding the method for manufacturing packaging tubes, this objective is achieved using the features of claim 9. Regarding the apparatus for improving the roundness of a tube body having a longitudinal seam, particularly a longitudinal weld, for use in packaging tubes, this objective is achieved using the features of claim 11. Furthermore, this objective is achieved by an apparatus having the features of claim 16 for manufacturing a packaging tube consisting of a tube body and a head for attaching to the tube body.

[0012] Advantageous implementation methods and designs are the subject of the dependent claims and subsequent claims and the accompanying drawings.

[0013] A method for improving the roundness of tube bodies (also known in technical terms as "Tube-Bodies") having longitudinal joints, particularly longitudinal welds, for use in packaging tubes, preferably as part of a packaging tube manufacturing method, which, in addition to known method steps of transferring individual tube bodies to a transport device and transporting the tube bodies along a transport route using the transport device, includes method steps according to the invention, wherein, during transport along the transport route, the tube bodies undergo segmented and / or intermittent radial inward deformation by passing the tube bodies through deformation devices.

[0014] In this specification, unless otherwise stated, radially inward deformation should be understood as deformation of a portion of the surface of the tube that is substantially perpendicular to the tube and extends toward the center or center of gravity of the tube.

[0015] The basic idea of ​​this invention is based on the mechanical compensation or mechanical recovery deformation of the tube body, which exerts an inward effect or influence on sections or sub-regions of the circumference or cross-section of the tube body and thus reduces ellipticity, or in other words, improves roundness. The basic idea of ​​this invention is based on the fact that the tube body moves along a transport route on or within a transport device through a deformation device, such that the interaction between the characteristics of the transport device, such as transport speed, and the characteristics of the deformation device, such as the degree of radial deformation, can be well regulated. More precisely, plastic deformation or deformation with a plastic proportion occurs on the one hand, which precisely improves roundness or reduces asymmetry, but at the same time ensures that the elastic proportion of the deformation, or in other words, the elastic restoring force of the tube body, is sufficient to allow the tube body to return to a state with a basically circular cross-section and, in addition, improved geometric roundness after passing through the deformation device.

[0016] Here, the invention utilizes the knowledge that tubes, compared to continuous tubes, can undergo significantly stronger temporary and / or segmental deformation without being damaged, especially by scratching or kinking. Consequently, it is advantageous to achieve this method using relatively simple device components while still achieving excellent improvements in roundness. Furthermore, it is advantageous to integrate this method into packaging tube manufacturing processes or methods for manufacturing packaging tubes, and it can also be particularly advantageously integrated or modified subsequently into known methods and devices.

[0017] It has also proven particularly advantageous here that the method according to the invention, especially due to its simplicity and feasibility at the method and apparatus level, can be combined with known methods, apparatus and approaches for improving the roundness of tubes, thereby supporting or improving other known or previously known mechanisms for reducing ellipticity.

[0018] In addition, the method is characterized by achieving improved roundness without the need for a mandrel or spindle, thereby significantly facilitating its implementation in the device.

[0019] Unless otherwise expressly stated below, for the purposes of this disclosure, it is generally assumed that the tube body is made or produced from a multi-layer plastic laminate or at least one plastic-containing laminate. Furthermore, for the purposes of this disclosure, it is assumed that the tube body is a single tube body and therefore suitable for direct or immediate further processing into a packaged tube. Therefore, the term "tube body" should be distinguished, in particular, from the precursor or precursor considered according to the method, i.e., a continuous tube manufactured from a laminate by welding, which, as understood in this disclosure, is transformed into multiple tube bodies only through an isolation process. The continuous tube that serves as a precursor to the method according to the tube body is also referred to as a "sleeve" in the vocabulary of those skilled in the art.

[0020] According to a first particularly advantageous embodiment of the method, the maximum radial deformation of the tube body occurs in the region of the longitudinal joint of the tube body. This means that the tube body and the deformation device are arranged or oriented such that the deformation device, when viewed in the cross-section of the tube body, acts on the tube body from the radially outer to the radially inner side and here is substantially or directly in contact with the section of the tube body in which the longitudinal joint is arranged or constitutes. Here, it is advantageously achieved that the section of the longitudinal joint of the tube body, which extends axially or through the longitudinal direction and substantially causes distortion or deviation from the geometrically circular cross-sectional shape, is subjected to the maximum deformation and / or the maximum force, thereby making it most likely to produce plastic, irreversible deformation in this region and thus advantageously influencing the stress or material properties or structural properties that hinder or impair roundness.

[0021] Here, it can be specified that the tube is delivered to the transport device in a specific orientation. Alternatively, the method or the device may include an orientation step or orientation unit that ensures that the tube passes through the deformation device in the desired orientation, such that the area of ​​the longitudinal joint undergoes maximum deformation toward the radially inward side.

[0022] In another particularly advantageous design of this method, the tube body is transformed, or at least temporarily transformed, by deformation of the deformation device into a cross-section that reproduces a U-shaped or V-shaped profile, wherein the longitudinal seam of the tube body is arranged in the region of the mirror-symmetric axis of the deformed profile or deformed cross-section. This deformation, which can occur, for example, when the deformation device deforms the tube body radially toward the center or centroid of the approximately circular cross-section of the tube body, advantageously allows for the simultaneous occurrence of the maximum possible permanent or plastic action in the region of the longitudinal seam, while simultaneously, in the region of the tube body, in the circumferential direction further away from the seam or longitudinal seam, a substantially elastic deformation occurs. These deformations therefore do not adversely affect the roundness of the tube body and provide or establish the necessary restoring force to return the tube body to its initial shape or initial cross-section after the action of the deformation device, more precisely, an improved circular cross-section compared to the initial cross-section. When deformed into a U-shaped or V-shaped cross-section, just as the mirror-symmetric axis extends in the region of the longitudinal seam, bending occurs in the region of the longitudinal seam and adjacent regions, bending that extends exactly in the opposite direction to the original bending of the circular or slightly elliptical cross-section. By reversing this bending ratio, reinforcement, tension, or other properties can be particularly well affected, which counteract the geometric circularity of the tube's cross-section.

[0023] In another particularly preferred embodiment of the method, it can be specified that the tube body is prevented from rotating about the longitudinal axis by means of guide devices along the transport route or at least a portion of the transport route. This also means that, at least during a portion of the transport of the tube body along the transport route, and especially during the action of the deformation device, the abutment surface or abutment area between the transport device and the tube body remains constant or unchanged. The guide devices can, for example, be configured as part of the transport device. For example, the transport device can have a rubberized belt with a V-shaped profile (“V-belt”) such that the rubberized profile of the belt prevents the tube body from rotating on the transport device, especially during the action of the deformation device. Alternatively, the guide devices can also be implemented by multiple, preferably four belts. The belts can also be rubberized and / or arranged around the tube body in a rectangular or square form. Preferably, the belts can be driven to complete the transport of the tube body. Thus, advantageously, in both embodiments, a portion of the transport device can also be provided with guide devices such that these guide devices simultaneously induce or support transport along the transport route and prevent the tube body from rotating about the longitudinal axis.

[0024] Therefore, it can be ensured that the tube is placed on the transport device in a defined position and orientation and transported in that position and orientation and affected, in particular, by the deformation device.

[0025] Furthermore, it can be advantageously specified that, along the transport route, at least segmentally and preferably over the entire extension or stretch of the deforming device in the direction of the transport route, lateral deformation of the tube is limited by lateral guiding elements. These lateral guiding elements can be configured, for example, as sidewalls or lateral guide profiles, or as guide bodies recessed into the transport device, such as guide rollers. These guide rollers, on the one hand, prevent the tube from being squeezed open by the deforming device, and on the other hand, laterally limit or define the deformation of the tube in an area of ​​approximately ±90° relative to the longitudinal joint. Thus, deformation can be particularly advantageously limited to targeted cold or hot forming or areas that would otherwise offset the longitudinal joint, or areas where such cold or hot forming would be reduced. Simultaneously, this ensures that, under the action of the deforming device, no tube is removed from the transport device, and in particular, is extruded.

[0026] In a further advantageous design of this method, the deformation can be specified such that the deformation device extends at different distances along the transport route in the direction of the tube and / or transport device at different locations along the transport route. Particularly preferably, in this respect, a small or moderate deformation occurs in the first segment of the deformation device, which then increases with increasing transport along the transport route. In the end segments of the deformation route, i.e., the route along which the deformation device acts on the tube, the deformation can be specified to gradually decrease again or to abruptly eliminate. In the case of abrupt elimination of deformation, the elastic bias of the deformed tube can advantageously be used to return to the initial shape or an improved initial shape. However, there is also a risk of uneven recovery forming, which, in the worst case, may leave kinks or other damage or injury on the tube. The risk of tube damage is less when the deformation is gradually eliminated or reduced. However, it must be noted that the tube fully returns to its original state by achieving a desired, improved cross-sectional shape compared to the initial condition.

[0027] In another particularly advantageous design of this method, it can be specified that the deformation device causes a portion of the tube's surface to undergo radial deformation of at least intermittently greater than 40%, preferably greater than 60%, particularly preferably greater than 80%, and especially greater than 95% of the tube diameter. In other words, this means that the section of the tube with the longitudinal joint, viewed in the circumferential direction, deforms inward to a region roughly located in the center or centroid of the original undeformed tube. In extreme cases, such as at a deformation of 95% or greater, the longitudinal joint deforms at maximum deformation to or almost to the opposite side of the tube in its original undeformed state.

[0028] The necessary maximum degree of deformation largely depends on the original ellipticity or the degree of lack of roundness before deformation. As will be discussed later, temperature, especially the temperature of the longitudinal joint at the time of deformation or during the period of time, is also an influencing variable, and therefore the necessary deformation or the necessary degree of deformation can be achieved relative to the original diameter, which is necessary for achieving, influencing, or jointly determining the improvement of roundness.

[0029] In another advantageous design of this method, the deforming device can be specified to have a contact surface for abutting against the tube, which moves with the tube or slides frictionlessly on the tube when abutting against it. This essentially ensures that the outer side of the tube is not damaged, especially not scratched. The deforming device, which can be implemented as multiple individual deforming elements, can have a circular contact surface, for example, by being configured as a wheel or disc, wherein the speed of the contact surface is equal to or must be equal to the transport speed of the tube on the transport device, ensuring that the contact surface moves with the tube, slides on the tube, and just avoids rubbing, friction, etc., along the tube. The deforming device can also be implemented, for example, as a circumferential continuous belt, wherein the portion of the continuous belt facing the transport device at a given time constitutes the contact surface. Again, in this case, it must be ensured that the speed of movement along the transport route is the same as the speed of movement of the tube on the transport device.

[0030] Another particularly advantageous variation of this method specifies that the deformable device is cooled at least during operation using an active cooling method. Therefore, it is possible to achieve heat dissipation from the tube body, preferably from the region of the longitudinal joint, while the tube body is in its deformed state or in a deformed state. This results in a better preservation or maintenance of the characteristics and state of the deformed state, thereby better achieving and maintaining the roundness of the tube body after it returns to its improved original cross-sectional shape.

[0031] Furthermore, it can be advantageously specified that the deforming device is driven in such a way that the movement of the deforming device and its contact surface, and the movement or direction of movement of the transport device, are corrected, particularly quickly. It is of particular interest to ensure that no friction is generated between the deforming device, especially its contact surface, and the tube body, particularly in the region of the longitudinal joint. To ensure this, it is preferable to provide a proposed embodiment in which the deforming device itself is actively driven. Here, the drive should be adjusted as precisely as possible such that the tangential velocity of the deforming device along the transport path is the same as the velocity of the transport device and / or the tube body located on the transport device.

[0032] Furthermore, according to a particularly preferred embodiment, deformation can be initiated in the state of the tube body, in which the longitudinal joint of the tube body has a temperature greater than 40°C, preferably greater than 50°C. This advantageously allows the joint or longitudinal joint to not yet be fully cured, which in turn contributes to improving the roundness of the longitudinal joint. Particularly advantageous in this respect is that the deformation device and / or the tube body itself is cooled in the deformed state, because the curing or fixation of the roundness promoted by the longitudinal joint then occurs or is accelerated in the deformed state. The weld temperature at the start of deformation can be adjusted or determined, for example, by the spatial and / or temporal distance between the weld formation and the deformation of the tube body, and the corresponding arrangement of the associated deformation device. The closer the deformation device is guided or positioned in time and space to the location or position where the longitudinal joint is formed, the greater the temperature or residual heat of the weld or longitudinal joint at the start of deformation.

[0033] It is particularly advantageous to specify that the deformation of the pipe body occurs within a time period greater than 0.5 seconds. This can also particularly advantageously ensure that sufficient deformation occurs and that this deformation exerts a lasting effect on the final cross-section of the pipe body, for example, by cooling or otherwise hardening or solidifying the longitudinal joints in the deformed state.

[0034] In summary, the duration of deformation and the temperature range in which deformation occurs are advantageously suited to the material system of the laminate. Therefore, for example, higher temperatures may be advantageous for specific laminate systems.

[0035] As mentioned above, another particularly advantageous design provision specifies that the tube body, especially the region of the longitudinal joints of the tube body, is cooled or actively treated with or comes into contact with a coolant or cooling medium during deformation. This can be achieved, for example, by one or more nozzles that apply cold air or another heat transfer fluid, such as water, along the surface of the tube body to the region of the longitudinal joints, so as to achieve cooling of the longitudinal joints or heat removal from the region of the longitudinal joints.

[0036] The aforementioned objective also utilizes a method for manufacturing a packaging tube consisting of a tube body and a head for attaching to the tube body, particularly to the axial end of the tube body, wherein, according to the invention, a method for improving the roundness of a tube body having a longitudinal joint, particularly a longitudinal weld, as described in any of the foregoing embodiments is used. Here, the basic idea of ​​the invention is to integrate or include the direction for improving roundness into the tube manufacturing process, such that the improved roundness of the tube body is established before attaching or fastening the head or tube tip.

[0037] According to an advantageous embodiment, the tube body is isolated from the continuous tube prior to deformation. Preferably, the longitudinal joint can be formed or created before deformation begins and before isolation occurs.

[0038] Furthermore, it can be advantageously specified that deformation is performed when the tube body is supplied to the device for the attachment head or when the tube body is processed in the device for the attachment head. Both variations are achieved in a particularly advantageous manner because the basic process flow does not need to be changed or otherwise affected. In other words, integrating the deformation into the device for the attachment head or into the area supplied to the device for the attachment head means that the original method and material flow, as well as the associated cycle time, can be maintained. This also means, particularly preferably, that a modification of the method for improving roundness is achieved within the existing method for manufacturing packaging tubes.

[0039] Regarding an apparatus for improving the roundness of a tube body for packaging tubes having longitudinal joints, particularly longitudinal welds, preferably as part of a packaging tube manufacturing apparatus, the apparatus includes a transport device for receiving and transporting individual tube bodies along a transport route. The aforementioned objective is achieved by providing deformation devices arranged such that, during transport along the transport route, the tube body undergoes segmented and / or intermittent radial inward deformation by the transport device transporting the tube body through the deformation devices.

[0040] To avoid unnecessary repetition, all features, characteristics, and advantages disclosed according to the method should also be considered as disclosed according to the apparatus. This also applies to apparatus features, characteristics, and advantages that are also considered as disclosed according to the method.

[0041] Using the device according to the invention, as has also been achieved using the method according to the invention, the lack of roundness in the tube can be improved with relatively low structural or device feature costs, and the device also has the substantial ability to be integrated into existing processes or devices for manufacturing packaged tubes. This is because the deformable device can, for example, be arranged in the transport path between the separate tube housing and the device for the attachment head. Alternatively, the deformable device can also be integrated into the device for the attachment head.

[0042] According to a first advantageous embodiment of the device, the deforming device can be defined as comprising a plurality of individual deforming elements. For example, the deforming elements that together constitute the deforming device can be configured as individual rotatable supports and / or driven discs or wheels, etc. Therefore, the construction or design of the deforming device can be realized particularly easily in an advantageous manner.

[0043] Advantageously, it can be specified that the deformable device is fixedly arranged in an absolute or secure position relative to the transport route and / or transport direction. If the deformable device is formed by multiple deformable elements, this can also be applied to the deformable elements to the same extent. The fixed arrangement or support of the deformable device / deformable element also achieves a simple structural design. However, it can also be specified here that the support and / or arrangement of the deformable device is variable in the direction perpendicular to the transport route and / or transport direction, i.e., aligned towards the transport direction. Therefore, the degree of deformation of the tube can be varied for the deformable device or for individual deformable elements, such that the deformable device or deformable element is positioned or arranged further or less on the transport device.

[0044] Preferably, the deforming elements are configured as rotatably supported discs or wheels, with their respective support points arranged along the transport route. This allows the tube to pass sequentially through different discs and deform separately from each disc or wheel during transport.

[0045] Furthermore, it can be advantageously specified that the radially outer region of the deforming device or element constitutes a contact surface for contacting the tube body. Preferably, the contact surface of the deforming device or element can be configured to be bent transversely to the direction of transport route or transversely to the longitudinal direction of the tube body, especially a convex bend, to prevent kinking or edge formation of the tube body in the deformed state or under deformed conditions.

[0046] Furthermore, it can be advantageously specified that the contact surface of the deformation device or deformation element has different distances from the transport device at different locations along the transport route. Thus, deformation of the tube body with correspondingly different intensities can be achieved along the transport route or along the extension of the deformation device or deformation element.

[0047] Furthermore, it may be particularly preferred to specify that guide devices are arranged along the transport route to prevent the tube from rotating about the longitudinal axis. The guide devices may, for example, be integrated into or interact with the transport device. Advantageously, for example, it may be specified that a rubberized conveyor belt or a belt with a V-shaped profile (V-belt) ensures that the tube does not twist or rotate about the longitudinal axis after it has been received or received by the transport device.

[0048] Furthermore, it can be advantageously specified that lateral guide elements, arranged at least segmentally along the transport route, preferably over the entire extension or stretch of the deforming device, limit the lateral deformation of the tube. The lateral guide elements are preferably arranged on both sides of the transport device, and are preferably sized such that the lateral guide elements extend at least 50%, preferably at least 70%, of the original diameter of the undeformed tube at the end opposite the transport device and facing the deforming device. The lateral guide elements can preferably be configured as concave rollers or rollers with concave sides, which are rotatably supported on both sides of the transport device perpendicular to the transport direction.

[0049] Particularly preferably, the deformable device or element may be configured to interact with cooling elements that provide active cooling of the deformable device or element during operation. The cooling elements may be configured, for example, as nozzles that apply cooling fluid to the deformable device, the deformable element, and / or their contact surfaces. Alternatively, the cooling elements may ensure the transport of cooling fluid into and from the interior of the deformable device or element, thereby achieving internal cooling of the deformable device or element.

[0050] According to another preferred design variation, a cooling unit may be provided, which is configured to cool the tube body, especially the longitudinal joints of the tube body, during at least a portion of the action of the deformation device. This promotes the stabilization, solidification, or consolidation of the longitudinal joints in the deformed state or under deformed conditions, which subsequently helps improve the roundness of the tube body after the deformation is eliminated or after passing through the deformation device.

[0051] The aforementioned objective is also achieved by an apparatus for manufacturing a packaging tube consisting of a tube body and a head for attaching to the tube body, wherein the apparatus has a means for improving the roundness of a tube body having longitudinal seams, particularly longitudinal welds, as described in the foregoing embodiments. As mentioned above, the means for improving roundness can be advantageously integrated into known or general apparatuses for manufacturing packaging tubes, or can be modified.

[0052] It is particularly advantageous that an isolation device is provided here to isolate the tube body from the continuous tube, wherein the isolation device is arranged such that isolation is completed before the deformation device comes into contact with the tube body.

[0053] It is particularly advantageous that the deformable device is arranged between the isolation device and the device for the attachment portion or is configured as part of the device for the attachment portion. Attached Figure Description

[0054] The following description, based on purely illustrative exemplary drawings, illustrates embodiments, advantages, and effects of the present invention. In the drawings:

[0055] Figure 1 Different cross-sections of the tube are shown;

[0056] Figure 2 shows a general apparatus for manufacturing packaging tubes;

[0057] Figure 3 An exemplary illustration of an apparatus for improving the roundness of a tube according to the present invention and a cross-section of an apparatus for manufacturing a packaging tube according to the present invention are shown.

[0058] Figure 4a It shows Figure 3 The cross-section of plane AA;

[0059] Figure 4b It shows Figure 3 or Figure 4a Modified implementation method;

[0060] Figure 5 An exemplary cross-section of a continuous tube with intermittent and segmented deformation and a tube body with intermittent and segmented deformation is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0061] Figure 1 Two tubes 01 are shown in cross-sectional view. For the left tube 01, the target state of the cross-section is shown. This left tube 01 is characterized by a completely or generally circular cross-section. The right side shows the actual cross-sectional shape or actual cross-section of the tube 01 after it has been made from a plastic laminate, wherein a longitudinal joint 03, particularly a weld, is provided or present in the joint area 02 of the tube 01, at which the two opposite sides or ends of the laminate are connected to each other, particularly welded, upon impact or in spatial overlap.

[0062] exist Figure 1 As can be seen from the data, the roundness of the actual cross-section of tube 01 is insufficient or inadequate, especially insufficient for further processing of tube 01. Therefore, it is necessary and desirable to make the cross-sectional shape closer to the desired shape. Figure 1 The optimal or desired target shape on the left.

[0063] Figure 2 illustratively illustrates a general apparatus 04 for manufacturing packaging tubes. A foil or plastic laminate 05 is introduced into the apparatus 04 from the right and guided around a mandrel (not shown in detail). Then, in a connecting unit 06, the two opposite ends of the laminate are joined, particularly welded, to form a longitudinal seam (not shown further). The resulting continuous tube 07 exits the connecting unit and is supplied to a separating or isolating device 08, which may, for example, have a cutter or other cutting or separating device and divides the continuous tube 07 into individual, separate tube bodies 09.

[0064] After separation or isolation, the tube 09 is transferred to the transport device 10 and continues to be transported from the transport device 10 along the transport route 11. The transport device 10 is typically operated at a higher speed than the longitudinal welding or isolation process, thereby creating spatial separation or isolation after the tube 09 is cut or isolated from the continuous tube 07. Lower speeds in the transport device are also substantially possible when the tube 09 is properly rotated about an axis perpendicular to the transport direction 12.

[0065] The position of each tube 09 can be detected along transport route 11. Advantageously, when certain quality characteristics are not met, tube 09 can also be inspected using an optical system or other measuring system to prevent it from entering the device 13 for attaching the head. The last mentioned removal can be carried out, for example, by blowing it out with compressed air. For manual quality inspection, tube 09 can also be cleared or removed along the transport route.

[0066] exist Figure 3 The diagram shows a modified example of device 04, wherein a device 24 according to the invention for improving the roundness of tube body 09 is attached or integrated between device 13 for attachment and isolation device 08. This device 24 includes deformable devices 14 arranged above transport device 10, these deformable devices 14 being designed as multiple individual deformable elements 15. Here, the deformable devices 14, and in particular the individual deformable elements 15, are configured at different distances relative to transport device 10. Figure 3 As can be seen from the illustration, the deformation element 15 causes the tube 09 to deform radially inward from above or from the transport device, and this deformation is eliminated again after the deformation device 14 or the last deformation element 15 has passed.

[0067] To limit deformation to the sides, i.e., perpendicular to the plane of the drawing, the device has lateral guide elements 16 arranged on both sides of the transport device 10. These lateral guide elements 16 extend over a portion of the deforming device 14, but preferably over the entire extension of the deforming device 14. The lateral guide elements 16 are configured as rotatably supported rollers with concave surfaces or sides arranged on both sides, as can be seen more clearly from Figure 4.

[0068] The deformable element 15 is configured, for example, as a wheel or disc and has a contact surface 17 on its radially outer side, which in turn connects to the tube body 09 to deform the tube body 09 radially inward. The deformable device 14 or deformable element 15 can preferably be designed as driven to ensure that the contact surface 17 only slides or rolls on the tube body 09, without any slippage or sliding between the tube body 09 and the deformable device / elements 14, 15. This prevents the outer surface of the tube body 09 from being affected, especially by scratching.

[0069] The illustration in Figure 4 shows along Figure 3 The cross-section of plane AA. It can be seen that, on the one hand, the lateral guide element 16 is designed as a rotatable support roller with a concave surface. It can also be seen that the tube 09 is fixed by a guide device 18, which in the example of FIG. 4 is part of the transport device 10, to prevent rotation about the longitudinal axis. The guide device 18 is constructed, for example, in the form of a V-shaped profile and also in the form of a rubberized conveyor belt 19 of the transport device 10. It can also be seen in FIG. 4 that the deforming element 15 advantageously has a convexly curved contact surface 17 to prevent or minimize kinking in the tube 09. FIG. 4 also shows the deformation of the tube 09 toward a U-shaped or V-shaped profile cross-section. Here, the deforming element 15 extends along a mirror-symmetric axis 23. Furthermore, the tube 09 is arranged such that the contact surface 17 acts as precisely as possible on the longitudinal joint 03, especially the weld, and that the longitudinal joint 03 deforms radially inward relative to the undeformed cross-section of the tube.

[0070] Figure 4 also illustratively includes a cooling element 22 configured to interact with the deforming device 14 or the deforming element 15 and to provide active cooling of the deforming device 14 and the deforming element 15 during operation. The cooling element 22 may be implemented, for example, as a cooling nozzle. A cooling unit (not shown further) may also be provided, configured to cool the tube body 09, particularly the longitudinal joint 03, during at least a portion of the action of the deforming device 14 or the deforming element 15.

[0071] As an alternative to the conveyor belt 19, which is a rubberized V-belt, the conveyor device 10 can also be a conveyor chain. Another alternative to the conveyor device 10 is... Figure 4b As shown in the diagram. Here, the transport device 10 includes four rubberized driven belts 25, which can be configured, for example, as continuous belts. Figure 4b The section of belt 25 that abuts against the tube is shown only in cross-section. The belt also constitutes guide devices 18, such as... Figure 4a The guide device 18 prevents the tube body 09 from rotating around the longitudinal axis.

[0072] exist Figure 4a and Figure 4b It can also be seen that the deformation transforms the tube 09 into a cross-section that reproduces the U-shaped or V-shaped profile, wherein the longitudinal joint 03 is arranged in the region of the mirror symmetry axis 23 of the profile or cross-section.

[0073] Figure 5A cross-section of the continuous tube 07 is shown on the left. This continuous tube 07 has undergone deformation in a known manner according to the prior art to reduce its ellipticity and thereby also improve the roundness of the subsequently isolated tube body 09. The continuous tube profile or cross-section 20 shows a deformation that causes the joint 03 or weld to deform only to approximately 40% of the original diameter of the continuous tube 07. In contrast, Figure 5 The right side shows a tube 09 according to the invention or in a deformed state according to the invention. Here, the tube 09 is deformed by more than 40% of the diameter of the original tube, preferably more than 80%, and even up to 100% in special or extreme cases, such that in said extreme cases the longitudinal joint 03 can even contact the opposing wall 21 of the tube 09. This also means that the invention is based on the knowledge that the isolated tube blank 09 can be deformed significantly more strongly than the continuous tube 07 without being damaged or other adverse damage to the tube 09. Due to the stronger deformation, ellipticity can be better offset. If the continuous tube 07 is deformed too strongly, it tends to kink, resulting in a manufacturing interruption. Figure 5 The illustrative diagram on the right shows that the strong deformation in the region of the longitudinal joint 03 results in strong bending of the wall of the tube 09 in that region, which leads to permanent and therefore plastic deformation in terms of ellipticity. By appropriately selecting the deformation depth and radius of curvature, the obtained shape and thus the roundness can be optimized.

[0074] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0075] 01 Pipe body

[0076] 02 Seam Area

[0077] 03 Longitudinal joint / joint

[0078] 04 Device

[0079] 05 Plastic laminate

[0080] 06 Connection Unit

[0081] 07 Continuous Tube

[0082] 08 Isolation Device

[0083] 09 pipe body

[0084] 10. Transport equipment

[0085] 11. Transportation routes

[0086] 12. Transportation Direction

[0087] 13 Device for attachment parts

[0088] 14 Deformable Devices

[0089] 15 Deformable elements

[0090] 16 Lateral guiding elements

[0091] 17 Contact Surface

[0092] 18. Boot device

[0093] 19. Conveyor Belt

[0094] 20 Continuous tube cross-section

[0095] 22 Cooling elements

[0096] 23 Mirror-symmetric axis

[0097] 24 devices

[0098] 25 belts

Claims

1. A method for improving the roundness of a tube body (09) having a longitudinal seam (03) for use in packaging tubes, the method comprising the following steps: - Transfer the individual tube (09) to the transport device (10); - The tube (09) is transported along the transport route (11) using the transport device (10); Its features are, During transport along the transport route (11), the tube (09) undergoes segmented and / or intermittent radial inward deformation by passing through the deformation device (14).

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Maximum radial deformation is performed in the region of the longitudinal joint (03) of the tube body (09), and / or the radial inward deformation shapes the tube body (09) into a cross section that reproduces a U-shaped or V-shaped profile, wherein the longitudinal joint (03) is arranged in the region of the U-shaped or V-shaped profile or the mirror axis of symmetry (23) of the cross section.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Along the transport route (11), the tube (09) is prevented from rotating about the longitudinal axis by means of the guide device (18).

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Lateral deformation of the tube (09) is limited at least in segments by lateral guide elements (16) along the transport route (11).

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The radial inward deformation is altered along the transport route (11) by the deformation device (14) extending at different locations along the direction of the tube (09) and / or the transport device (10) on the transport route (11).

6. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The deformation device (14) at least intermittently causes a portion of the surface of the tube (09) to undergo radial deformation greater than 40% of the original undeformed tube diameter.

7. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The deformable device (14) has a contact surface (17) for abutting against the tube body (09), the contact surface (17) moving together with the tube body (09) when abutting against the tube body (09).

8. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The radial inward deformation begins in the state of the tube body (09), in which the longitudinal joint (03) of the tube body (09) has a temperature greater than 40°C.

9. A method for manufacturing a packaging tube consisting of a tube body (09) and a head for attaching to said tube body (09), characterized in that, The method includes a method for improving the roundness of a tube (09) having a longitudinal joint (03) according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The radial inward deformation is performed when the tube (09) is supplied to the device (13) for attaching the head or when the tube (09) is processed in the device (13) for attaching the head.

11. An apparatus for improving the roundness of a tube body (09) having a longitudinal seam (03) for packaging tubes, said apparatus comprising a transport device (10) for receiving and transporting individual tube bodies (09) along a transport route (11), characterized in that, The device also includes a deformation device (14) arranged such that, during transport along the transport route (11), the tube (09) undergoes segmented and / or intermittent radial inward deformation as the transport device (10) transports the tube (09) past the deformation device (14).

12. The apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that, The deformable device (14) includes multiple individual deformable elements (15).

13. The apparatus according to claim 12, characterized in that, The deformable element (15) is configured as a rotatable support disk, the support points of which are arranged along the transport route (11).

14. The apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that, The guide device (18) is used to prevent the tube (09) from rotating about the longitudinal axis along the transport route (11).

15. The apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that, Lateral guide elements (16) arranged at least in segments along the transport route (11) limit the lateral deformation of the tube body (09).

16. An apparatus for manufacturing a packaging tube consisting of a tube body (09) and a head for attaching to said tube body (09), characterized in that, The device includes an apparatus for improving the roundness of a tube (09) having a longitudinal seam (03) according to any one of claims 11 to 15.

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