Packaging machine and method of producing a package

Abstract

A packaging machine (1) for producing packages (2) is described, comprising a conveying device (5) for advancing a web of packaging material (4), an isolation casing (12) having a main chamber (14) and an auxiliary chamber (15), a tube forming and sealing device (16) arranged at least partially within the main chamber (14) and configured to form and longitudinally seal a tube (3) within the main chamber (14) when in use, the tube (3) having a longitudinal sealing portion (18), a filling device (17) for filling the tube (3) with a pourable product, a pressure control device (22) configured to control a first pressure (p1) within the main chamber (14) and a second pressure (p2) within the auxiliary chamber (15), a pressure measurement device (23) configured to measure a pressure difference (Δp) between the first pressure (p1) and the second pressure (p2), and an analysis unit (24) configured to monitor a course of the pressure difference (Δp) over time and determine a collapse of the longitudinal sealing portion (18).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a packaging machine for producing packaging for pourable products (especially pourable food).

[0002] The present invention also relates to a method for producing packaging for pourable products (especially pourable food). Background Technology

[0003] As is well known, many liquids or pourable products, such as juice, UHT (ultra-high temperature) milk, cream, water, wine, ketchup, salt, sugar, etc., are sold in packages made of sterilized multi-layered packaging materials.

[0004] A typical example is a parallelepiped-shaped package for liquids or pourable foods, called TetraBrikAseptic (registered trademark), which is made by sealing and folding multiple layers of packaging material. The packaging material has a multi-layered structure, including a base layer (e.g., a paper base) covered on both sides by heat-sealable plastic material layers (e.g., polyethylene layers). For aseptic packaging of products intended for long-term storage (e.g., UHT milk), the packaging material also includes an oxygen barrier layer (oxygen barrier layer), such as aluminum foil, which is stacked on top of a heat-sealable plastic material layer, and then covered with another heat-sealable plastic material layer, forming the inner surface of the package that ultimately contacts the food.

[0005] This type of packaging is typically produced on fully automated packaging machines that advance the packaging material roll from a magazine unit through a sterilization device to sterilize the roll, and then into an isolation shell (a closed and at least partially sterile environment) where the sterilized packaging material roll is held and advanced. An example of such a packaging machine is disclosed in patent document EP3575227A1. During the advance of the packaging material roll through the main chamber of the isolation shell, the roll is longitudinally folded and sealed to form a tube with a longitudinal seal, which is further fed into and through an auxiliary chamber of the isolation shell in a vertically advancing direction.

[0006] To complete the forming operation, the tube is filled with sterilized or sterilized pourable product, particularly pourable food, which is then formed to at least partially define the final shape of the package, and is laterally sealed within the packaging forming unit of the packaging machine and subsequently cut along equidistant transverse cross sections during its advance in the vertical direction.

[0007] Pillow-shaped packages are thus obtained inside the packaging machine, each pillow-shaped package having a longitudinal sealing strip, a top transverse sealing strip, and a bottom transverse sealing strip.

[0008] It is well known that the longitudinal seal of a pipe is still warm shortly after sealing, and therefore more vulnerable than when it is completely cooled. This is typically the case when the pipe advances in the downstream section of the main chamber and the upstream section of the auxiliary chamber. Therefore, it is necessary to control the entire process to avoid or at least limit the possibility of the longitudinal seal collapsing (i.e., opening and / or losing its integrity) due to forces acting on the pipe itself during pipe advance.

[0009] In cases where longitudinal seal collapse (i.e., tube opening and / or loss of integrity) is unlikely, it is necessary to halt production and restart it under aseptic conditions. It is believed that such operations need to be made faster.

[0010] Therefore, it is necessary to provide packaging machines that can detect whether the longitudinal seal has collapsed in a timely manner. Summary of the Invention

[0011] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an improved packaging machine to overcome this problem, particularly allowing timely detection of longitudinal seal collapse.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for producing packaging to overcome the above-mentioned problems, particularly allowing timely detection of longitudinal seal collapse.

[0013] According to the present invention, a packaging machine and a method for producing sealed packaging are provided. A packaging machine for producing pourable product packaging from a roll of packaging material traveling along a roll-to-roll path, the packaging machine comprising: a conveying device for advancing the roll of packaging material along the roll-to-roll path to a tube forming station, wherein the roll of packaging material is formed into a tube in use and for advancing the tube along the tube-to-roll path; an isolation housing having a main chamber and an auxiliary chamber, the auxiliary chamber being arranged downstream of the main chamber along the tube-to-roll path; a tube forming and sealing device at least partially arranged in the main chamber and configured to form and longitudinally seal the tube in use within the main chamber, the tube having a longitudinal sealing portion; a filling device for filling the tube with pourable product; a pressure control device configured to control a second pressure within a first pressure auxiliary chamber in the main chamber, the second pressure being different from the first pressure; a pressure measuring device configured to measure the pressure difference between the first pressure and the second pressure; and an analysis unit operatively connected to the pressure measuring device and configured to monitor the change of the pressure difference over time; wherein the analysis unit is configured to determine the collapse of the longitudinal sealing portion based on the change of the pressure difference over time.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the pressure control device is configured to maintain the pressure difference between the first pressure and the second pressure at a desired and / or defined pressure difference value. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Non-limiting embodiments of the invention will be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a packaging machine according to the present invention, wherein some parts have been removed for clarity; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A partial schematic diagram of a packaging machine, with some parts removed for clarity; and Figure 3 The diagram illustrates the time-dependent course of two process parameter values. Figure 1 The operation of the packaging machine was monitored. Detailed Implementation

[0016] The number 1 indicates an integral packaging machine used to produce packages 2, particularly sealed packages 2, of pourable products (especially pourable foods such as pasteurized milk, juice, wine, ketchup, etc.) from the tube 3 of the packaging material roll 4. Specifically, in use, the tube 3 extends along the longitudinal axis, particularly in a vertical direction.

[0017] The packaging material roll 4 includes at least one layer of fibrous material, particularly paper or cardboard, with corresponding heat-sealable plastic material layers, such as polyethylene, covering both sides.

[0018] The packaging material roll 4 may also include a gas and light barrier material layer, such as aluminum foil or ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) film, and at least first and second heat-sealable plastic material layers. Preferably, the gas and light barrier material layer is superimposed on the first heat-sealable plastic material layer and, in turn, covered by the second heat-sealable plastic material layer. The second heat-sealable plastic material layer may form the inner surface of the package 2, ultimately contacting the filled, pourable food.

[0019] More specifically, the packaging material roll 4 may include a first side and a second side, particularly the first side being the side of the packaging material roll 4 that forms the inner surface of the package 2 that ultimately contacts the filled, pourable food.

[0020] A typical package 2 obtained by packaging machine 1 includes a longitudinal seam portion and a pair of transverse sealing strips, particularly a transverse top sealing strip and a transverse bottom sealing strip.

[0021] Special Reference Figure 1 The packaging machine 1 can be configured to advance the packaging material roll 4 along the roll advance path P, preferably sterilizing the packaging material roll 4 during the advance along the path P to form tubes 3 from the packaging material roll 4 and fill the tubes 3, and preferably forming individual packages 2 from the filled tubes 3.

[0022] Preferably, the packaging machine 1 may include: - Conveying device 5, which is configured to advance packaging material roll 4 along roll advance path P to at least tube forming station 6, where packaging material roll 4 is formed into tube 3 in use and is used to advance tube 3 along tube advance path Q; - Preferably, the sterilization device 7 is used to sterilize at least a portion, preferably at least the first side, or even more preferably the first and second sides, of the packaging material roll 4 at a sterilization station 8 arranged upstream of the tube forming station 6 along the roll advance path P. - Isolation housing 12, which extends along longitudinal axis A, particularly having a vertical orientation, and having at least a main chamber 14 and an auxiliary chamber 15, the latter being arranged downstream of the main chamber 14 along the pipe advance path Q; - A pipe forming and sealing device 16, at least partially arranged within an isolation housing 12 (particularly the main chamber 14), and configured to form and longitudinally seal the pipe 3 at a pipe forming station 6 within at least a portion of the isolation housing 12 (particularly the main chamber 14); and - Filling device 17, which is used to fill tube 3 with pourable product.

[0023] Specifically, during use, the main chamber 14 is maintained under sterile conditions. Specifically, the auxiliary chamber 15 is not under sterile conditions. In other words, while the main chamber 14 is a sterile chamber and / or configured to operate under sterile conditions, the auxiliary chamber 15 is not a sterile chamber.

[0024] Specifically, the tube forming and sealing device 16 can be configured to form a tube 3 having a longitudinal sealing portion 18. More specifically, the tube forming and sealing device 16 can be configured to overlap the side edges of the packaging material roll 4 in use and seal the overlapping side edges to form the longitudinal sealing portion 18. The longitudinal sealing portion 18 extends parallel to the tube's forward path Q.

[0025] Preferably, the packaging machine 1 further includes a packaging forming unit 19, which is configured to form and laterally seal the tube 3, particularly during the advance of the tube 3 along the tube advance path Q, at least between consecutive packages 2, and preferably also laterally cut the tube 3.

[0026] The packaging machine 1 may also include a tin unit configured to receive packaging material rolls 4 at a host station 20. Specifically, the tin unit may include at least two loading platforms, each configured to retain a bobbin of a corresponding packaging material roll 4. Even more specifically, in use, one loading platform may retain a bobbin containing packaging material rolls 4 in use, while the other loading platform may retain a bobbin containing new packaging material rolls 4.

[0027] Additionally, the packaging machine 1, particularly the tin unit, may also include a splicing device configured to splice the existing packaging material roll 4 (i.e., the currently used packaging material roll 4) with a new packaging material roll 4. More specifically, the splicing device may be configured to splice the leading portion of the new packaging material roll 4 to the trailing portion of the existing packaging material roll 4.

[0028] Specifically, in use, the splicing of the existing packaging material roll 4 and the new packaging material roll 4 can define the spliced ​​portion of the packaging material roll 4 formed by the splicing. The spliced ​​portion of the packaging material roll 4 comprises two superimposed fiber layers. In other words, the thickness of the spliced ​​portion is greater than the thickness of other portions of the packaging material roll 4, in particular (essentially) twice as thick.

[0029] Preferably, the packaging machine 1 may further include a sensor device having one or more position sensors 21 configured to determine the spliced ​​portions of the packaging material roll 4, particularly for determining the relative position of the spliced ​​portions along the roll's travel path P. As will be explained in more detail below, knowing the relative position of the spliced ​​portions of the packaging material roll 4 along the roll's travel path P helps to more accurately determine the collapse of the longitudinal portion of the tube.

[0030] Advantageously, the packaging machine 1 may also include a pressure control device 22 configured to control the pressure within at least a portion of the isolation housing 12, particularly the pressure within the main chamber 14, and preferably also the pressure within the auxiliary chamber 15.

[0031] According to some preferred embodiments, the pressure control device 22 is configured to control a first pressure p1 in the main chamber 14 and a second pressure p2 in the auxiliary chamber 15 that is different from the first pressure p1. In particular, the first pressure p1 is higher than the second pressure p2.

[0032] In particular, in this way, the pressure control device 22 is configured to control the first pressure p1 and the second pressure p2, thereby preventing contaminants from entering the main chamber 14.

[0033] In a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the pressure control device 22 may be configured to control the first pressure p1 within a range of 20 mbar to 100 mbar above the ambient pressure, preferably 30 mbar to 90 mbar above the ambient pressure, and even more preferably 50 mbar to 80 mbar above the ambient pressure.

[0034] Furthermore, the pressure control device 22 can be configured to control the pressure difference Δp (Δp = p1 - p2) between the first pressure p1 and the second pressure p2. Specifically, the pressure control device 22 can be configured to maintain the pressure difference Δp at a desired and / or defined pressure difference value Δp. des .

[0035] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the desired and / or defined pressure difference Δp des It can be greater than 8 mbar, especially greater than 10 mbar, and even more specifically at least 11 mbar.

[0036] According to some possible non-limiting embodiments, the expected and / or defined pressure difference Δp des It can be less than 20 mbar, especially less than 15 mbar, and even more specifically less than 12 mbar.

[0037] According to the preferred implementation scheme, the desired and / or defined pressure difference Δp des It can be equal to 11 mbar.

[0038] It should be noted that the pressure difference Δp will be subject to the desired and / or limited pressure difference Δp des The effects of inherent fluctuations in the surrounding environment are visible, for example, in the first part of the curve representing the change of pressure difference Δp over time.

[0039] The packaging machine 1 may also include a pressure measuring device 23, which is configured to measure, in particular, continuously measure, the pressure difference Δp. Specifically, the pressure measuring device 23 includes a first pressure measuring unit 56 configured to measure the pressure in the main chamber 14, and a second pressure measuring unit (not shown) configured to measure the pressure in the auxiliary chamber 15.

[0040] Preferably, the pressure measuring device 23 includes at least one differential pressure sensor configured to measure the pressure difference Δp between the main chamber 14 and the auxiliary chamber 15. The differential pressure sensor may include the first pressure measuring unit and the second pressure measuring unit.

[0041] The packaging machine 1 may also include an analysis unit 24, which is specifically operatively connected to the pressure measuring device 23 and configured to monitor the change of pressure difference Δp over time (see [reference]). Figure 3 (The curve is represented by a solid line in the image). Preferably, the analysis unit 24 is a control unit that controls all functions of the packaging machine.

[0042] The analysis unit 24 is configured to determine the collapse of the longitudinal seal portion 18, particularly the opening and / or loss of integrity of the longitudinal seal portion 18, based on the change of the pressure difference Δp over time.

[0043] In fact, the applicant has found that, in the event of collapse of the longitudinal seal portion 18, the measured pressure difference Δp may decrease, particularly significantly (see [reference needed]). Figure 3 (and the significant changes in pressure difference Δp shown by the solid line).

[0044] Specifically, in the event of a collapse of the longitudinal sealing portion 18, a fluid connection occurs between the main chamber 14 and the auxiliary chamber 15, causing the first pressure p1 and the second pressure p2 to approach each other. Furthermore, the pressure control device 22 cannot, at least immediately, compensate for the approaching first pressure p1 and second pressure p2.

[0045] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the analysis unit 24 can be configured to if the decrease in pressure difference Δp may be equal to or exceed a threshold decrease Δp thres This determines the collapse of the longitudinal sealing portion 18. Specifically, the decrease in pressure difference Δp can be calculated and / or defined as the desired and / or defined pressure difference value Δp. des The difference between the measured pressure difference Δp and the actual pressure difference.

[0046] Alternatively, the analysis unit 24 can be configured to detect if the measured pressure difference Δp may be equal to or lower than the lower limit value Δp. low This confirms the collapse of the longitudinal sealing portion 18.

[0047] Prioritized but not necessarily, the threshold decreases by Δp thres It can be greater than or equal to 1 mbar, especially 2 mbar, and even more especially 3 mbar.

[0048] For example, in the expected and / or determined pressure difference Δp des It may equal 11 mbar and the threshold decreases by Δp thres If the pressure difference Δp is equal to or less than 8 mbar, and the limit is potentially set at 3 mbar, then analysis unit 24 can determine the collapse of the longitudinal seal 18. Based on this example, the lower limit Δp... low It can be 8 mbar.

[0049] The applicant discovered that a threshold decrease Δp must be selected. thres To correctly identify collapses without generating false alarms (i.e., incorrectly identifying collapses). This is preferably achieved by lowering the threshold Δp. thres It can be guaranteed to be greater than or equal to 1 mbar, especially 2 mbar, or even more especially 3 mbar.

[0050] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the threshold decreases by Δp thres It can be less than or equal to 5 mbar, especially 4 mbar, and even more especially 3.5 mbar.

[0051] Specifically, the threshold decreases by Δp thres The constraint is selected to be able to correctly detect the collapse of the longitudinal sealing portion 18 (without generating unnecessary false alarms; that is, without falsely identifying the collapse).

[0052] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the analysis unit 24 may also be configured to, in use, issue a signal indicating that the longitudinal sealing portion 18 has collapsed and / or trigger an interruption of the production of the packaging 2 via the packaging machine 1 when the analysis unit 24 detects the collapse of the longitudinal sealing portion 18.

[0053] According to some possible non-limiting embodiments, the operation of the tube forming and sealing device 16 may depend on the position of the sealed portion of the packaging material roll 4 determined by at least one position sensor 21.

[0054] Preferably, the sensor device 21 may include at least two position sensors 21, each of which is arranged upstream of the isolation housing 12 along the roll advance path P, particularly upstream of the sterilization device 7.

[0055] Even more preferably, at least one position sensor 21 may be arranged near the hopper unit (preferably at the splicing device or downstream of the splicing device). Alternatively, at least one position sensor 21 may be arranged near the sterilization device 7 (preferably upstream of the sterilization device 7).

[0056] Furthermore, the tube forming and sealing device 16 can be configured to alter its operation, particularly the energy transfer, depending on whether the splice portion advances within the isolation housing 12 (especially within the main chamber 14). Specifically, when the sealing tube 3 has a splice portion, a greater energy transfer is required.

[0057] The applicant has observed that, compared to other sections of the longitudinal seal 18, collapse of the longitudinal seal 18 is more likely to occur in the section of the longitudinal seal 18 originating from the splice portion.

[0058] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the analysis unit 24 can also be configured to determine the collapse of the longitudinal seal 18 based on whether the splice portion advances within the isolation housing 12, particularly during a decrease in pressure difference Δp, and / or whether the pipe 3 having a section of the longitudinal seal 18 originating from the splice portion advances within the isolation housing 12. Specifically, the analysis unit 24 is configured to activate monitoring of the change in pressure difference Δp over time when the splice portion advances within the isolation housing 12 and / or when the pipe 3 having a section of the longitudinal seal 18 originating from the splice portion advances within the isolation housing 12, and to deactivate monitoring of the change in pressure difference Δp over time at other times. This reduces false alarms. In fact, collapse is more likely to occur when the longitudinal seal 18 has a section originating from the splice portion.

[0059] In another implementation, the analysis unit 24 is configured to continuously monitor the change of pressure difference Δp over time, regardless of the location of the splice section.

[0060] Special Reference Figure 1 and 2 The filling device 17 may include a filling tube 25, which is at least partially placed inside the tube 3 for feeding pourable product into the tube 3. In particular, the filling tube 25 may be in fluid connection with a pourable product storage tank.

[0061] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the filling device 17 may also include a filling level detection device configured to determine the filling level of the pourable food within the tube 3. Specifically, the filling level detection device may include a float configured to float on the pourable food column present within the tube 3 during use, and a sensor (e.g., a magnetic sensor) configured to read the relative position of the float within the tube 3.

[0062] The fill level detection device can be operatively connected to the analysis unit 24, and the analysis unit 24 can be configured to monitor the change in fill level over time (see [reference]). Figure 3 (The dashed line in the middle).

[0063] Additionally, the analysis unit 24 can be configured to detect a drop in the filling level, particularly a drop greater than or equal to a threshold, and / or a filling level equal to or less than a lower limit threshold filling level.

[0064] Furthermore, according to some possible non-limiting embodiments, the analysis unit 24 may be configured to detect the collapse of the longitudinal seal portion 18 based on the change of the filling liquid level over time, and further and / or instead detect the collapse of the longitudinal seal portion 18 based on the change of the pressure difference Δp over time.

[0065] More specifically, the analysis unit 24 can be configured to react to a decrease in the filling liquid level and a decrease in the pressure difference Δp, and / or to a filling liquid level equal to or below a lower limit threshold and a pressure difference Δp equal to or less than a lower limit value Δp. low To detect the collapse of the longitudinal sealing section 18.

[0066] Specifically, the drop in the filling level can be determined as the difference between the nominal filling level that should be maintained during the production of package 2 and the measured filling level.

[0067] According to some possible non-limiting embodiments, the analysis unit 24 can be configured to analyze if the drop in the filling liquid level is equal to or greater than a threshold and if the drop in pressure difference Δp is equal to or greater than the pressure threshold Δp. thres Then, the collapse of the longitudinal sealing portion 18 was detected.

[0068] According to some possible non-limiting embodiments, the lower limit threshold filling level range is between 0.2 and 0.7 of the nominal filling level, preferably between 0.3 and 0.5 of the nominal filling level.

[0069] In this way, the risk of false alarms (i.e., incorrectly identifying a collapse) can be reduced.

[0070] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the analysis unit 24 can also be configured to determine the collapse of the longitudinal sealing portion 18: - If, during use, the spliced ​​portion advances within the isolation housing 12 and / or a section of the longitudinal sealing portion 18 originating from the spliced ​​portion advances within the isolation housing 12; and -If the decrease in pressure difference (Δp) is equal to or exceeds the threshold decrease (Δp) thres ) and / or if the measured pressure difference (Δp) is equal to or below the lower limit (Δp) low ); and / or -If the drop in the filling level is equal to or greater than the threshold.

[0071] Special Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The sterilization station 8 can be arranged upstream of the tube forming station 6 along the roll advance path P. In other words, the sterilization device 7 can be arranged upstream of the isolation housing 12 along the path P. In other words, in use, the packaging material roll 4 is sterilized before it enters the isolation housing 12, especially the main chamber 14.

[0072] Preferably, the sterilization device 7 can be arranged downstream of the material box unit along the roll advance path P.

[0073] Specifically, the packaging forming unit 19 can be arranged along path Q downstream of the isolation housing 12 and the tube forming and sealing device 16.

[0074] More specifically, the conveying device 5 can be adapted to advance the pipe 3 and any intermediates of the pipe 3 along the path Q in a known manner, particularly from the pipe forming station 6 through a portion of the main chamber 14 and to reach and pass through the auxiliary chamber 15, and even more particularly towards and at least partially through the packaging forming unit 19.

[0075] Specifically, "intermediate body of tube 3" refers to any configuration of the packaging material roll 4 before obtaining the tube structure and after the folding of the packaging material roll 4 begins by the tube forming and sealing device 16. In other words, the intermediate body of tube 3 is the result of gradually folding the packaging material roll 4 to obtain tube 3, particularly by overlapping the opposite side edges of the packaging material roll 4 with each other.

[0076] Special Reference Figure 2 The sterilization device 7 can be configured to sterilize the packaging material roll 4 by physical sterilization (e.g., by sterilization radiation, especially electromagnetic radiation, and even more particularly by electron beam radiation), especially the first side, and even more particularly the second side.

[0077] Alternatively or additionally, the sterilization device 7 may be configured to sterilize the packaging material roll 4 by chemical sterilization, particularly by hydrogen peroxide, especially the first side, and even more particularly the second side.

[0078] More specifically, according to the disclosed specific non-limiting example embodiments, the sterilization apparatus 7 may include a radiation device 26 arranged at the sterilization station 8 and adapted to guide sterilization radiation, particularly electromagnetic radiation, and even more particularly electron beam radiation, to at least a first surface, and preferably also to a second surface, while in use, the packaging material roll 4 advances along the sterilization portion of path P; and - At least one shielding chamber 27, which houses the radiation device 26, and specifically includes a forward passage 28 through which the packaging material roll 4 advances during use and during sterilization of the packaging material roll 4, particularly the first side, and even more particularly the second side.

[0079] More specifically, radiation device 26 may include - At least one first radiation emitter, particularly a first electron beam emitter 29, configured in use to direct sterilization radiation, particularly electromagnetic radiation, and even more particularly electron beam radiation, onto a first surface; and - Preferably, there is also a second radiation emitter, in particular a second electron beam emitter 30, which is configured to direct sterilization radiation, in particular electromagnetic radiation, and even more particularly electron beam radiation, onto the second surface during use.

[0080] Preferably, electron beam emitters 29 and 30 can be arranged side-by-side and spaced apart from each other, such that at least a portion of the forward passage 28 is located between electron beam emitters 29 and 30.

[0081] Special Reference Figure 1 and 2 The isolation housing 12 is configured to separate the internal environment 31 (particularly having at least one sterile portion) from the external environment 32.

[0082] More specifically, the main chamber 14 is part of the isolation housing 12, in which the packaging material roll 4 forms the tube 3 in use, and the packaging material roll 4 is longitudinally sealed in use. In other words, the main chamber 14 contains a portion of the tube forming and sealing device 16, which interacts directly with the packaging material roll 4 and the tube 3 itself to form and longitudinally seal the tube 3.

[0083] More specifically, the auxiliary chamber 15 may be arranged (directly) downstream of the main chamber 14 along the pipe travel path Q. In use, the pipe 3 advances through the auxiliary chamber 15 after being formed and longitudinally sealed. In particular, in use, the formed and longitudinally sealed pipe 3 advances directly from the main chamber 14 to the auxiliary chamber 15 (i.e., no other chamber is arranged between the main chamber 14 and the auxiliary chamber 15).

[0084] Specifically, the main chamber 14 and the auxiliary chamber 15 can be connected to each other, or even more specifically, directly connected.

[0085] Preferably, the main chamber 14 may include a respective main interior space 33 that defines a portion of the interior environment 31, particularly a sterile portion of the interior environment 31. In other words, the main chamber 14 may preferably be a sterile main chamber 14 (i.e., the main chamber 14 can remain sterile during production).

[0086] In other words, during use, the packaging material roll 4 can advance through a portion of the main chamber 14 before forming the tube 3. Since the internal space is preferably sterile, the sterility of the packaging material roll 4 and the tube 3 is maintained.

[0087] Preferably, the auxiliary room 15 may include an auxiliary interior space 34, which defines another part of the interior environment 31. The auxiliary interior space 34 may be a non-sterile environment.

[0088] Preferably, the isolation housing 12 may further include a receiving chamber 35 arranged downstream of the auxiliary chamber 15 along the pipe advance path Q and configured to receive gas leaking from the auxiliary chamber 15 (present within the auxiliary chamber 15 itself).

[0089] Specifically, the receiving chamber 35 can be connected (especially directly connected) to the auxiliary chamber 15. In other words, in use, the pipe 3 can proceed from the auxiliary chamber 15 into the receiving chamber 35.

[0090] In the preferred, non-limiting embodiment shown, the isolation housing 12 may include an inlet portion 36 for receiving the packaging material roll 4 and an outlet portion 37 for allowing the tube 3 to be discharged from the isolation housing 12 itself, particularly into the packaging forming unit 19.

[0091] Preferably, the main chamber 14 may include an entrance portion 36.

[0092] Preferably, the accommodating chamber 35 may define and / or include an exit portion 37.

[0093] In the preferred, non-limiting embodiment shown, the sterilization device 7 can be coupled to, in particular connected to, the main chamber 14, such that the packaging material roll 4 advances from the sterilization device 7 into the main chamber 14.

[0094] Preferably, the isolation housing 12 may further include at least one main partition wall for separating the main chamber 14 and the auxiliary chamber 15 from each other.

[0095] Specifically, the portion of the pipe forming and sealing device 16 that can be arranged within the main chamber 14 can be positioned upstream of the main partition wall along the pipe advance path Q.

[0096] Special reference Figure 2 The packaging forming unit 19 may include a plurality of complementary operating unit pairs 42 (shown schematically only) configured to at least shape and laterally seal, and in particular also laterally cut the packaging 2.

[0097] More specifically, especially refer to Figure 2 The pressure control device 22 may include: - Gas regulating unit 50, configured to direct pressurized (sterile) gas into main chamber 14 to control first pressure p1; and - Flow conduit 51, which fluidly connects the main chamber 14 to the auxiliary chamber 15, and is configured to allow gas to flow (controlledly) from the main chamber 14 into the auxiliary chamber 15, particularly for controlling the second pressure p2.

[0098] More specifically, the gas conditioning unit 50 may include an injection tube 52, which is at least partially disposed within the main chamber 14 and configured to inject (sterile) gas into the main chamber 14, and preferably also includes a control valve 53 for controlling the gas flow within the injection tube 52.

[0099] More specifically, the injection tube 52 may extend at least partially within the main chamber 14 parallel to axis A and includes a plurality of nozzles for injecting pressurized gas into the main chamber 14.

[0100] Furthermore, the gas conditioning unit 50 may be further configured to at least pressurize the gas, and even more preferably to pressurize and sterilize the gas, particularly at least before the gas is injected into the main chamber 14.

[0101] Furthermore, the gas conditioning unit 50 may also include another injection tube 54 configured to inject pressurized (sterile) gas into the sterilization apparatus 7, particularly the shielded chamber 27. Preferably, the injection tube 54 may be configured to inject gas at the interface between the sterilization apparatus 7 and the isolation housing 12.

[0102] Preferably, the pressure control device 22 may further include a control valve 55, preferably a ball valve, which is arranged within the flow channel 51 and configured to control the flow of gas from the main chamber 14 to the auxiliary chamber 15 through the flow channel 51, particularly for controlling the second pressure. Specifically, the control valve 55 of the control device 22 regulates the gas flow through the flow channel 51 to control the pressure difference Δp (Δp=p1-p2) between the first pressure p1 and the second pressure p2.

[0103] The pressure measuring device 23 includes a first pressure measuring unit 56 configured to measure and / or determine a first pressure p1. Preferably, the pressure control device 22 may be configured to control the control valve 53 based on the first pressure measured and / or determined by the first pressure measuring unit 56.

[0104] In a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the pressure within the containment chamber 35 can be approximately ambient pressure. It should be noted that gases present in the auxiliary chamber 15 may also leak (in an uncontrolled manner) into the containment chamber 35.

[0105] In a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the pressure control device 22, in particular the gas regulating unit 50, can be configured to draw gas from the sterilization device 7, in particular the shielded chamber 27, and direct it to the gas regulating unit 50 itself, particularly for the purpose of recirculation.

[0106] Special Reference Figure 1 The tube forming and sealing device 16 may include at least one tube forming assembly 57 configured to form tube 3 from a roll of packaging material 4 advancing from use, and at least one sealing head 58 configured to longitudinally seal tube 3.

[0107] More specifically, the tube assembly 57 and the sealing head 58 can be arranged within the main chamber 14.

[0108] More specifically, the tube forming assembly 57 may include at least a plurality of forming ring assemblies 59, in Figure 1 In the specific example shown, two forming ring assemblies 59 are arranged within the main chamber 14 and are configured to gradually fold the packaging material roll 4 into a tube 3, particularly by overlapping the respective side edges of the packaging material roll 4.

[0109] Specifically, the forming ring assembly 59 can be arranged in parallel and spaced planes, particularly orthogonal to axis A, or even more specifically, with a substantially horizontal orientation. Preferably, another downstream forming ring assembly 59 can be designed to also apply mechanical force to the tube 3, particularly to promote a longitudinal seal of the tube 3.

[0110] In use, the packaging machine 1 forms a package 2 filled with a pourable product.

[0111] More specifically, the method for forming package 2 includes the following steps: - Advance the packaging material roll 4 along the forward path P; - At tube forming station 18, the packaging material roll 4 inside the main chamber 14 of the isolation shell 12 is folded into tube 3; - A longitudinal sealing pipe 3 is formed in the main chamber 14, thereby also forming a longitudinal sealing portion 18; - Fill tube 3 with a pourable product; - Advance tube 3 along path Q through a portion of the main chamber 14 and into and through the auxiliary chamber 15; and -A single package 2 is obtained from the tube 3 by forming the tube 3, and the tube 3 is laterally sealed between consecutive packages 2, particularly by laterally cutting the tube 3 between consecutive packages 2 to obtain a single package 2.

[0112] The method also includes the following steps: - Control the pressure, during which the first pressure p1 and the second pressure p2 are controlled; - Measure the pressure difference, specifically the pressure difference Δp, during which the measurement is continuous; - Monitor the change in pressure difference Δp over time, and during this period, monitor the change in pressure difference over time; and -The collapse of the longitudinal sealing section 18 is determined based on the change of pressure difference Δp over time.

[0113] More specifically, during the control steps, the pressure difference Δp is maintained at the desired and / or defined pressure difference value Δp. des Especially under normal operating conditions.

[0114] Preferably, the pressure difference Δp is within the desired and / or defined pressure difference value Δp des Fluctuations in the vicinity.

[0115] Furthermore, during the control step, the pressure control device 22 can control the pressure difference Δp, particularly by controlling the first pressure p1 and the second pressure p2.

[0116] More specifically, during the determination step, if the decrease in pressure difference Δp is equal to or exceeds the threshold decrease Δp thres And / or if the measured pressure difference Δp is equal to or lower than the lower limit Δp low Then the collapse of the longitudinal sealing section 18 can be determined.

[0117] Specifically, the determination and monitoring steps can be performed by the analysis unit 24.

[0118] The method of forming package 2 may also include the following steps: - Detects the level of liquid filling the pourable food container within tube 3, particularly through a filling detection device; and - Monitor the change in filling liquid level over time.

[0119] In addition, during the determination process, the collapse of the longitudinal sealing section 18 can also be determined based on the change of the filling liquid level over time.

[0120] In particular, the collapse of the longitudinal seal 18 can also be determined based on the measured drop in the filler level (especially a drop greater than a predetermined filler level drop).

[0121] Alternatively, if the filling level is equal to or less than the lower threshold filling level, the collapse of the longitudinal seal portion 18 can also be determined.

[0122] By combining criteria related to the pressure difference Δp and criteria related to the filling level, the risk of incorrectly determining the collapse of the longitudinal seal section 18 can be reduced.

[0123] More specifically, in the detection step, the relative position of the float is detected (in order to measure the filling level).

[0124] The method of forming package 2 may also include a splicing step, during which the existing packaging material roll 4 is spliced ​​with a new packaging material roll 4. Specifically, during the splicing step, the subsequent portion of the existing packaging material roll 4 is spliced ​​together with the initial portion of the new packaging material roll.

[0125] In addition, during the splicing step, a roll of packaging material 4 with spliced ​​portions is obtained.

[0126] Advantageously, during the determination step, the collapse of the longitudinal seal 18 is also determined based on whether the splice portion advances within the isolation housing 12 during use and / or whether a section of the longitudinal seal 18 originating from the splice portion advances within the isolation housing 12.

[0127] By combining this standard with at least a standard related to the pressure difference Δp, the risk of erroneously detecting the collapse of the longitudinal seal 18 can be reduced. Furthermore, a standard related to the filling level can also be considered for detecting the longitudinal seal 18.

[0128] According to some possible non-limiting embodiments, during the determination step, the collapse of the longitudinal sealing portion 18 can be determined: - If, during use, the spliced ​​portion advances within the isolation housing 12 and / or a section of the longitudinal sealing portion 18 originating from the spliced ​​portion advances within the isolation housing 12; and -If the decrease in pressure difference Δp is equal to or exceeds the threshold decrease Δp thres And / or if the measured pressure difference Δp is equal to or lower than the lower limit Δp low and / or -If the drop in the filling level is equal to or greater than the threshold.

[0129] The method of forming package 2 may also include the step of detecting the position of the splice portion along the roll advance path P by means of a sensor device (in particular one or more position sensors 21). In addition, whether the splice portion and / or the section of the longitudinal sealing portion 18 originating from the splice portion can advance within the isolation housing 12 can be determined by knowing the relative position and operation of the conveying device 5.

[0130] The method of forming package 2 may also include a signal sending step, during which a signal is sent to notify that the longitudinal sealing portion 18 has collapsed. This alerts the operator, for example, allowing the operator to decide to interrupt the formation of package 2.

[0131] Alternatively or additionally, the method of forming package 2 may also include a triggering step, during which the formation of package 2 is interrupted if the collapse of the longitudinal seal portion 18 is determined during the determining step.

[0132] In a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the method further includes the step of sterilizing at least a first side, particularly a second side, of the packaging material roll 4 at the sterilization station 8. Specifically, the sterilization step is performed before the folding step of the packaging material roll 4. More specifically, the sterilization step is performed before the packaging material roll enters the isolation housing 12.

[0133] During the step of folding the tube 3, the tube forming and sealing device 16 gradually overlaps the opposite side edges of the packaging material roll 4 to form a longitudinal seal.

[0134] During the longitudinal sealing tube 3 step, the tube forming and sealing device 16 seals the overlapping opposite side edges of the packaging material roll 4 to achieve a longitudinal seal.

[0135] During the step of advancing tube 3, the conveying device 5 advances tube 3 (and any intermediate parts of tube 3) along path Q to packaging forming unit 19.

[0136] Specifically, the conveying device 5 advances the pipe 3 through a portion of the main chamber 14, reaches and passes through the auxiliary chamber 15, and preferably reaches and passes through the receiving chamber 35.

[0137] During the filling tube 3 step, the filling device 17 fills the pourable product into the longitudinally sealed tube 3.

[0138] During the step of obtaining a single package 2, the packaging forming unit 19 forms and laterally seals the tube 3 between consecutive packages 2, and preferably also laterally cuts the tube 3 between consecutive packages 2.

[0139] More specifically, during the sterilization step of the packaging material roll 4, at least one sub-step is performed to direct sterilization radiation, particularly electromagnetic radiation, and even more particularly electron beam radiation, onto at least a first surface of the packaging material roll 4, and preferably also onto a second surface of the packaging material roll 4. Packaging of the packaging material roll 4 is then performed.

[0140] From the above description, the advantages of the packaging machine 1 and / or method of the present invention will become apparent.

[0141] In particular, it allows for timely determination of whether the longitudinal sealing section 18 has collapsed. This, in turn, allows for the prompt implementation of necessary measures.

[0142] Obviously, changes can be made to the packaging machine 1 and / or method described herein without departing from the scope of protection defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A packaging machine (1) for producing a package (2) of a pourable product from a roll (4) of packaging material advancing along a roll advance path (P), said packaging machine (1) comprising: - A conveying device (5) for advancing the packaging material roll (4) along the roll advance path (P) to a tube forming station (6), whereby the packaging material roll (4) is formed into a tube (3) in use and for advancing the tube (3) along the tube advance path (Q); - An isolation housing (12) having a main chamber (14) and an auxiliary chamber (15) arranged downstream of the main chamber (14) along the pipe advance path (Q); - A tube forming and sealing device (16), which is at least partially arranged in the main chamber (14) and configured to form and longitudinally seal the tube (3) in the main chamber (14) during use, the tube (3) having a longitudinal sealing portion (18); - Filling device (17) for filling the tube (3) with the pourable product; - Pressure control device (22) configured to control a first pressure (p1) in the main chamber (14) and a second pressure (p2) in the auxiliary chamber (15), the second pressure (p2) being different from the first pressure (p1); - A pressure measuring device (23) configured to measure the pressure difference (Δp) between the first pressure (p1) and the second pressure (p2); as well as - An analysis unit (24) is operatively connected to the pressure measuring device (23) and configured to monitor the change of the pressure difference (Δp) over time; The analysis unit (24) is configured to determine the collapse of the longitudinal sealing portion (18) based on the change of pressure difference (Δp) over time.

2. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 1, wherein the pressure control device (22) is configured to maintain the pressure difference (Δp) between the first pressure (p1) and the second pressure (p2) at a desired and / or defined pressure difference value (Δp). des ); The desired and / or defined pressure difference (Δp) des (Above 8 mbar) 3. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 2, wherein, The expected and / or defined pressure difference (Δp) des (Above 10 mbar) 4. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 2, wherein, The expected and / or defined pressure difference (Δp) des At least 11 mbar.

5. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 2, wherein, The expected and / or defined pressure difference (Δp) des ) equals 11 mbar.

6. The packaging machine (1) according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein the analysis unit (24) is configured to if the decrease in the pressure difference (Δp) is equal to or exceeds a threshold decrease (Δp) thres ) and / or if the measured pressure difference (Δp) is equal to or below the lower limit (Δp) low If the collapse of the longitudinal sealing portion (18) is confirmed, then the collapse of the longitudinal sealing portion (18) is determined.

7. The packaging machine (1) according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein the filling device (17) includes a filling level detection device configured to determine the filling level of the pourable product in the tube (3); The filling level detection device is operatively connected to the analysis unit (24), and the analysis unit (24) is configured to monitor the change of the filling level over time. The analysis unit (24) is configured to also determine the collapse of the longitudinal sealing portion (18) based on the time-varying process of the filling liquid level.

8. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 7, wherein the analysis unit (24) is configured to detect a decrease in the filling liquid level and / or the filling liquid level being equal to or less than a lower limit threshold filling liquid level; The analysis unit (24) is further configured to detect the collapse of the longitudinal sealing portion (18) based on the measured drop in the filling level and / or whether the filling level is equal to or less than the lower limit threshold filling level.

9. The packaging machine (1) according to any one of claims 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 8 further includes a splicing device configured to splice an in-use packaging material roll (4) with a new packaging material roll (4); wherein, The packaging material roll (4) obtained by splicing the existing packaging material roll (4) with the new packaging material roll (4) has a spliced ​​portion formed due to the splicing; The analysis unit (24) is further configured to determine the collapse of the longitudinal sealing portion (18) based on whether the spliced ​​portion advances within the isolation housing (12) during use and / or whether a section of the longitudinal sealing portion (18) originating from the spliced ​​portion advances within the isolation housing (12).

10. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 9, wherein the analysis unit (24) is configured to determine the collapse of the longitudinal sealing portion (18): -If, during use, the splicing portion advances within the isolation housing (12) and / or a section of the longitudinal sealing portion (18) originating from the splicing portion advances within the isolation housing (12); and -If the decrease in pressure difference (Δp) is equal to or exceeds the threshold decrease (Δp) thres ) and / or if the measured pressure difference (Δp) is equal to or below the lower limit (Δp) low ).

11. The packaging machine (1) according to any one of claims 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8 or 10, wherein the analysis unit (24) is configured to issue a signal to indicate that the longitudinal sealing portion (18) has collapsed and / or to trigger an interruption of the production of the packaging carried out by the packaging machine (1).

12. The packaging machine (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8 or 10, wherein the main chamber (14) is configured to operate under aseptic conditions.

13. A method for producing packaging (2) for pourable products, comprising the following steps: -Proceed the packaging material roll (4) along the roll advance path (P) to the tube forming station (6); as well as - At the tube forming station (6), the packaging material roll (4) inside the main chamber (14) of the isolation housing (12) is folded into a tube (3); -The pipe (3) is longitudinally sealed within the main chamber (14) such that the pipe (3) has a longitudinally sealed portion (18); - The tube (3) is advanced along the tube advance path (Q), through a portion of the main chamber (14), and into and through the auxiliary chamber (15) of the isolation housing (12), the auxiliary chamber being arranged downstream of the main chamber (14) along the tube advance path (Q); as well as - Fill the formed tube (3) with the pourable product; and - Control pressure, during which a first pressure (p1) in the main chamber (14) and a second pressure (p2) in the auxiliary chamber (15) different from the first pressure (p1) are controlled; - Measure the pressure difference, during which the pressure difference (Δp) between the first pressure (p1) and the second pressure (p2) is measured; - Monitor the change of the pressure difference (Δp) over time; and - The collapse of the longitudinal sealing portion (18) is determined based on the time-varying process of the pressure difference (Δp).

14. The method of claim 13, wherein during the control step, the pressure difference (Δp) between the first pressure (p1) and the second pressure (p2) is maintained at a desired and / or defined pressure difference value (Δp). des ); in, The desired and / or defined pressure difference (Δp) des (Greater than 8 mbar) 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the desired and / or defined pressure difference (Δp) des (greater than 10 mbar) 16. The method of claim 14, wherein the desired and / or defined pressure difference (Δp) des At least 11 mbar.

17. The method of claim 14, wherein the desired and / or defined pressure difference (Δp) des It equals 11 mbar.

18. The method according to any one of claims 13-17, wherein during the determining step, if the decrease in the pressure difference (Δp) is equal to or exceeds a threshold decrease (Δp)... thres ) and / or if the measured pressure difference (Δp) is equal to or below the lower limit (Δp) low If the collapse of the longitudinal sealing portion (18) is confirmed, then the collapse of the longitudinal sealing portion (18) is determined.

19. The method according to any one of claims 13-17, further comprising the step of: - Detect the filling level of the pourable product in the tube (3); and - Monitor the change in the filling liquid level over time; During the determination step, the collapse of the longitudinal sealing portion (18) is also determined based on the change of the filling liquid level over time.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein, During the determination step, the collapse of the longitudinal seal portion (18) is also determined based on the measured drop in the fill level and / or whether the fill level is equal to or less than the lower limit threshold fill level.

21. The method according to claim 13 or 14 or 15 or 16 or 17 or 20, further comprising a splicing step in which an in-use packaging material roll (4) is spliced ​​with a new packaging material roll (4); the packaging material roll (4) obtained by said splicing has a spliced ​​portion formed due to said splicing; in, During the determination step, the collapse of the longitudinal sealing portion (18) is also determined based on whether the splice portion advances within the isolation housing (12) during use and / or whether a section of the longitudinal sealing portion (18) originating from the splice portion advances within the isolation housing (12).

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