Stretching and covering machine for partially sealed stretching and covering

Abstract

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a stretch cover machine and a method of operating a stretch cover machine to wrap an article with a tubular film. The method includes pulling a tubular film from a film roll, and forming a first sealing section at a first end of the tubular film section, where the first sealing section extends only across a portion of a width of the tubular film to provide a partial seal having a first opening at the first end of the tubular film section. Using a retraction device, the tubular film is lowered around the article to enclose the article within the interior of the tubular film. A first opening at a first end of the tubular membrane section provides a passage between an interior of the tubular membrane and an exterior environment.

Description

[0001] priority

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 416,335, filed on October 14, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to stretch hooding machines for wrapping cargo loads with tubular stretch film, and more particularly to stretch hooding machines configured to wrap cargo loads with partially sealed tubular film. Background Art

[0004] Stretch hooding machines wrap a cargo load with tubular plastic stretch film. These stretch hooding machines include a frame that supports a film supply assembly, a film opening assembly, and a reefing-and-wrapping assembly. The reefing-and-wrapping assembly includes a wrapping bracket that supports four reefing devices. Each reefing device includes a support and a vertically extending reefing finger that supports a drive roller. A motor drives the drive roller, and the reefing finger supports a freely rotatable guide roller. The drive roller can move toward and away from the guide roller.

[0005] In order to wrap the cargo load, the film supply assembly pulls the tubular film from the film roll, cuts the film into the desired length to form the tubular film segment, and in some cases completely closes the top heat seal of the tubular film segment. The film opening assembly opens the bottom portion of the tubular film segment so that its periphery is generally rectangular. Each take-in device moves laterally inwardly relative to the tubular film segment to a corresponding insertion position, at which these take-in devices form an insertion configuration. Then, the wrapping bracket rises relative to the tubular film segment until the take-in fingers of the take-in device enter the bottom portion near the four corners of the open bottom portion of the tubular film segment. Then, the take-in device moves laterally outwardly to the corresponding take-in position, at which these take-in devices form a take-in configuration, in preparation for taking the tubular film segment into the take-in fingers. The drive roller of the take-in device moves toward its corresponding guide roller to engage the outer surface of the tubular film segment and force the inner surface of the tubular film segment against the guide roller, thereby clamping the tubular film between these rollers. The motor drives its corresponding drive roller in a take-up rotational direction to take-up (or gather) the tubular film segment onto the take-up fingers.

[0006] After stowing, each stowing device moves laterally outward to a corresponding wrapping position, where the stowing devices form a wrapping configuration. Because the film is elastic, the film stretches during this movement. The wrapping configuration (and therefore the wrapping position) is determined based on the size and shape of the load, so the size of the periphery of the tubular film section is set to surround the load once the stowing device reaches the wrapping configuration. After the stowing device reaches the wrapping configuration, the wrapping carriage descends relative to the load. During this descent, the motor drives the drive roller of the stowing device to release the rest of the film from the stowing finger at a certain release speed along the release rotation direction (opposite to the stowing rotation direction). When this happens, the film attempts to return to its unstretched size and shape and retracts laterally onto the load, which makes the load integral and / or fixes the load to the pallet. This completes the wrapping process, and the conveyor transports the load out of the stretch hooding machine.

[0007] In some cases, it is desirable to provide ventilation for the load, for example to avoid moisture-related problems. One possible way to provide ventilation is to leave the upper end of the tubular film completely unsealed. This provides a path between the interior of the tubular film and the surrounding environment, which reduces the possibility of unwanted moisture accumulation. However, some loads are not compatible with this wrapping configuration. For example, if the top of the tubular film is left open, loads with varying widths or unusual shapes may not be properly secured. Summary of the invention

[0008] Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide methods and stretch hooding machines for wrapping an article using a tubular film section that includes a partial seal along an upper end thereof.

[0009] In one embodiment, a method of operating a stretch hooding machine to wrap an article with a tubular film segment includes pulling a tubular film from a film roll and forming a first sealing segment at a first end of the tubular film segment. The first sealing segment extends across only a portion of the width of the tubular film so as to provide a partial seal with a first opening at the first end of the tubular film segment. The method also includes positioning the tubular film segment on a plurality of take-up devices and taking the tubular film segment onto take-up fingers of the take-up devices. Further, the method includes lowering the take-up device around the article to wrap the article within the interior of the tubular film. The first opening at the first end of the tubular film segment provides a passage between the interior of the tubular film and the external environment.

[0010] In one embodiment, a stretch hooding machine includes: a machine frame; a wrapping bracket that is movable between an upper position and a lower position relative to the machine frame; and a plurality of take-up devices supported by the wrapping bracket and configured to wrap a tubular film around an article. The film supply assembly is configured to guide a tubular film segment from a tubular film roll having a first width to the take-up device. The machine also includes a sealing system that includes a first sealing unit strip and a second sealing unit strip that extend along a first line and are separated by a gap along the first line, and are configured to provide a partial seal having an opening that corresponds to the gap between the first sealing unit strip and the second sealing unit strip.

[0011] In one embodiment, a stretch hooding machine includes: a machine frame; a wrapping bracket movable between an upper position and a lower position relative to the machine frame; and a plurality of take-up devices supported by the wrapping bracket and configured to wrap a tubular film around an article. The film supply assembly is configured to guide a tubular film segment from a tubular film roll having a first width to the take-up devices. The stretch hooding machine further includes a sealing system including a first sealing unit strip having a length less than the first width of the tubular film roll and configured to form a first sealing segment at a first end of the tubular film segment, the first sealing segment extending across only a portion of the width of the tubular film so as to provide a partial seal having a first opening at the first end of the tubular film segment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Figure 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a stretch hooding machine of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 Block diagram of some components of a stretch hood machine.

[0014] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A side view of one of the take-up devices of a stretch hooding machine of FIG. 1 , wherein the take-up bracket is in its original position.

[0015] Figure 4 is after the film opening device has opened the bottom of the tubular film segment and before the retracting fingers of the retracting device have been inserted into the bottom of the tubular film segment, Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the film opening device and the film taking-in device of the stretch hood machine.

[0016] Figure 5 is corresponding to Figure 4 A simplified top view of the floor plan.

[0017] Figure 6 is similar to Figure 4 , however after the retracting fingers of the retracting device have been inserted into the bottom of the tubular film segment and after the retracting brackets of the retracting device have been moved into their respective retracted positions.

[0018] Figure 7 is corresponding to Figure 6 A simplified top view of the floor plan.

[0019] Figure 8 is corresponding to Figure 6 of Figure 3 Side view of the retraction device.

[0020] Fig. 9 is similar to Figure 6 , however after the retraction device has retracted the tubular film segment onto its retraction fingers.

[0021] Fig.10 is corresponding to Fig. 9 of Figure 3 Side view of the retraction device.

[0022] Fig.11 It is a three-dimensional image of a tubular film roll.

[0023] Fig.12 is a schematic perspective view of a sealing unit in a first position.

[0024] Fig.13 yes Fig.12 A schematic three-dimensional view of the sealing unit in the second position.

[0025] Fig.14 is a schematic depiction showing a stretch hood expanded to be placed over an article.

[0026] Fig.15 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a sealing system of the present disclosure.

[0027] Fig.16 is a schematic diagram of another exemplary embodiment of a sealing system of the present disclosure.

[0028] Fig.17 is a schematic diagram of another exemplary embodiment of a sealing system of the present disclosure.

[0029] Fig.18 is a schematic diagram of another exemplary embodiment of a sealing system of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a stretch hooding machine configured to wrap a cargo load using a tubular film section including a partial seal along an upper end thereof. Figures 1 to 10 , Fig.12 and Fig.13 One embodiment of a stretch hooding machine 10 of the present disclosure and components and parts of the stretch hooding machine 10 are shown. The stretch hooding machine 10 includes a machine frame 100, a film supply assembly 200 supported by the machine frame 100, a film opening assembly 300 supported by the machine frame 100, a take-up and wrapping assembly 400 supported by the machine frame 100, an operator interface 500, and a controller 600. A coordinate system CS (e.g. Figure 1 ) is used herein as a reference system for directional movement of various components of the stretch hooding machine 10 in the X-, Y-, and Z-directions (which are perpendicular to each other in the exemplary embodiment).

[0031] The machine frame 100 is formed of a plurality of tubular and / or solid members and other elements (not separately labeled) and is configured to support other components and parts of the stretch hooding machine 10. The machine frame 100 defines a wrapping area therein and has an infeed area (not labeled) where palletized loads (such as loads L on pallets P) are conveyed into the wrapping area for wrapping and an outfeed area (not labeled) where the palletized loads are conveyed out of the wrapping area after wrapping. The illustrated machine frame 100 is merely an exemplary configuration and any suitable configuration may be employed.

[0032] The film supply assembly 200 includes suitable components configured to form a tubular film segment F that is then used by the stretch hood machine 10 to wrap the load L. More specifically, and as is known in the art, the film supply assembly 200 includes components suitable for pulling a length of tubular film from a tubular film roll R rotatably mounted to the machine frame 100, cutting the length of the tubular film from the roll R to form the tubular film segment F, and optionally closing at least a portion of the upper end of the tubular film segment, as described in more detail below. As is known in the art, when wrapping the load L, the controller 600 determines the length of the tubular film segment F based (in part) on the height of the load L.

[0033] The film opening assembly 300 includes suitable components configured to open the bottom portion of the tubular film segment F to form a generally rectangular perimeter to prepare for the stowage and wrapping assembly 400 to be stowed. More specifically, and as is known in the art, the film opening assembly 300 includes four suction boxes and four corresponding holding devices (not labeled) that can be moved laterally inward and outward relative to the tubular film segment F in the X-direction and the Y-direction and generally parallel to the X-Y plane. In order to open the bottom portion of the tubular film segment F, the suction boxes are moved laterally inward in the X-direction and the Y-direction so that they are positioned adjacent to the outer surface of the bottom portion of the tubular film segment F. A vacuum is generated to pull the bottom portion of the tubular film segment F onto the suction boxes, thereby partially opening the bottom portion. Then, the holding device clamps the tubular film segment, and the suction box and the holding device move laterally outward in the X and Y directions and generally parallel to the XY plane to open the bottom portion of the tubular film segment F, thereby preparing for retraction. At this time, the periphery of the bottom portion of the tubular film segment F forms a generally rectangular shape, thereby preparing for retraction. This is only one example of the film opening assembly 300, and other embodiments of the film opening assembly 300 may include any other suitable components.

[0034] The stowage and wrap assembly 400 includes a wrapping carriage (not shown for clarity); a wrapping carriage actuator 410; a first stowage device 420, a second stowage device 430, a third stowage device 440, and a fourth stowage device 450; and a first set of stowage device actuators 420a and a second set of stowage device actuators 440a. The wrapping carriage includes a suitable frame and is vertically movable in the Z direction between an upper position and a lower position relative to the machine frame 100. The wrapping carriage actuator 410 is operably connected to the wrapping carriage to move the wrapping carriage between its upper position and lower position, and the wrapping carriage actuator may include any suitable actuator (such as an electric motor or a hydraulic motor).

[0035] Figure 3 , Figure 8 and Fig.10 4. The first retracting device 420 is shown, which includes: a first support member 421; a first retracting finger 422, which extends generally vertically in the Z direction from one end of the first support member 421; a freely rotatable first guide roller 422a, which is mounted to the first retracting finger 422; a first track 423, which is supported by the first support member 421; a first bracket 424, which is mounted to the first track 423 and is configured to move along the first track 423 in an original position ( Figure 3 ) and the retracted position adjacent to the first guide roller 422a ( Figure 8 and Fig.10 ); a first drive roller 425, which is supported by the first bracket 424; a first roller actuator 426, which is supported by the first bracket 424 and is operably connected to the first drive roller 425 to rotate the first drive roller 425 in opposite retracting rotation directions and releasing rotation directions; and a first bracket actuator 427, which is operably connected to the bracket 424 to move the bracket 424 between its original position and the retracted position.

[0036] The second retracting device 430 is similar to the first retracting device 420 and is therefore not shown separately. The second retracting device includes: a second support member 431; a second retracting finger 432, which extends generally vertically from one end of the second support member 431; a freely rotatable second guide roller 432a, which is mounted to the second retracting finger 432; a second track 433, which is supported by the second support member 431; a second bracket 434, which is mounted to the second track 433 and is configured to move along the second track 433 in an original position spaced from the second guide roller 432a and A second guide roller 432a is adjacent to move between a stowed position; a second drive roller 435, which is supported by a second bracket 434; a second roller actuator 436, which is supported by the second bracket 434 and is operably connected to the second drive roller 435 to rotate the second drive roller 435 in opposite stowed rotation directions and let-out rotation directions; and a second bracket actuator 437, which is operably connected to the bracket 434 to move the bracket 434 between its original position and the stowed position.

[0037] The third retracting device 440 is similar to the first retracting device 420 and is therefore not shown separately. The third retracting device includes: a third support 441; a third retracting finger 442, which extends generally vertically from one end of the third support 441; a freely rotatable third guide roller 442a, which is mounted to the third retracting finger 442; a third track 443, which is supported by the third support 441; a third bracket 444, which is mounted to the third track 443 and is configured to move along the third track 443 in an original position spaced apart from the third guide roller 442a and A third guide roller 442a is adjacent to move between a stowed position; a third drive roller 445, which is supported by a third bracket 444; a third roller actuator 446, which is supported by the third bracket 444 and is operably connected to the third drive roller 445 to rotate the third drive roller 445 in opposite stowed rotation directions and let-out rotation directions; and a third bracket actuator 447, which is operably connected to the bracket 444 to move the bracket 444 between its original position and the stowed position.

[0038] The fourth retracting device 450 is similar to the first retracting device 420 and is therefore not shown separately. The fourth retracting device includes: a fourth support member 451; a fourth retracting finger 452, which extends generally vertically from one end of the fourth support member 451; a freely rotatable fourth guide roller 452a, which is mounted to the fourth retracting finger 452; a fourth track 453, which is supported by the fourth support member 451; a fourth bracket 454, which is mounted to the fourth track 453 and is configured to move along the fourth track 453 in an original position spaced apart from the fourth guide roller 452a and A fourth guide roller 452a is adjacent to the bracket 454 and moves between a stowed position; a fourth drive roller 455, which is supported by a fourth bracket 454; a fourth roller actuator 456, which is supported by the fourth bracket 454 and is operably connected to the fourth drive roller 455 to rotate the fourth drive roller 455 in opposite stowed rotation directions and let-out rotation directions; and a fourth bracket actuator 457, which is operably connected to the bracket 454 to move the bracket 454 between its original position and the stowed position.

[0039] The first retractor 420, the second retractor 430, the third retractor 440 and the fourth retractor 450 are mounted to the frame of the parcel tray in a generally rectangular arrangement. The first set of retractor actuators 420a are operably connected to the first retractor 420 and the second retractor 430 to move the first retractor 420 and the second retractor 430 laterally inwardly and outwardly relative to the parcel tray (and the load L and the tubular film segment F) in the X-direction and the Y-direction and generally parallel to the XY plane. The second set of retractor actuators 440a are operably connected to the third retractor 440 and the fourth retractor 450 to move the third retractor 440 and the fourth retractor 450 laterally inwardly and outwardly relative to the parcel tray (and the load L and the tubular film segment F) in the X-direction and the Y-direction and generally parallel to the XY plane.

[0040] The first set of stowage device actuators 420a includes a first X actuator and a first Y actuator that are controlled independently of each other. The first X actuator is operably connected to the first stowage device 420 and the second stowage device 430 and is configured to move the first stowage device 420 and the second stowage device 430 in the X direction relative to the parcel tray. The first Y actuator is operably connected to the first stowage device 420 and the second stowage device 430 and is configured to move the first stowage device 420 and the second stowage device 430 in the Y direction relative to the parcel tray. In the exemplary embodiment, the first X actuator and the first Y actuator include electric motors controlled by separate variable frequency drives, but in other embodiments the actuators can be any suitable actuators (such as hydraulic motors controlled by proportional solenoid valves). In the exemplary embodiment, the first X actuator moves the first stowage device and the second stowage device simultaneously and at the same rate in the X direction toward and away from the load. Similarly, the first Y-actuator moves the first and second retracting devices simultaneously and at the same rate in the Y-direction toward and away from the load.

[0041] The second set of stowage device actuators 440a includes a second X actuator and a second Y actuator that are controlled independently of each other. The second X actuator is operably connected to the third stowage device 440 and the fourth stowage device 450 and is configured to move the third stowage device 440 and the fourth stowage device 450 in the X direction relative to the parcel tray. The second Y actuator is operably connected to the third stowage device 440 and the fourth stowage device 450 and is configured to move the third stowage device 440 and the fourth stowage device 450 in the Y direction relative to the parcel tray. In the exemplary embodiment, the second X actuator and the second Y actuator include electric motors controlled by separate variable frequency drives, but in other embodiments the actuators can be any suitable actuators (such as hydraulic motors controlled by proportional solenoid valves). In the exemplary embodiment, the second X actuator moves the third stowage device and the fourth stowage device toward and away from the load in the X direction simultaneously and at the same rate. Similarly, the second Y-actuator moves the third and fourth retractors simultaneously and at the same rate in the Y-direction toward and away from the load.

[0042] In other embodiments, the stretch hooding machine includes a separate set of one or more take-up device actuators for each separate take-up device. In some of these embodiments, each set of take-up device actuators includes independently controlled X and Y actuators similar to those described above.

[0043] The operator interface 500 is configured to receive input from an operator and, in some embodiments, is configured to output information to the operator. The operator interface includes one or more input devices configured to receive input from an operator. In various embodiments, the one or more input devices include one or more buttons (such as hard keys or soft keys), one or more switches, and / or a touch panel. In various embodiments, the operator interface 500 includes a display device that is configured to display information to the operator, such as information about pallet loading, the status of a wrapping operation, or the settings of the stretch hooding machine 10. The operator interface may include other output devices that replace or are in addition to the display device, such as one or more speakers and / or one or more lights. In some embodiments, the operator interface 500 is formed as a part of the stretch hooding machine 10 and is, for example, mounted to the machine frame 100. In other embodiments, the operator interface is away from the stretch hooding machine 10.

[0044] The controller 600 includes a processing device that is communicatively connected to a memory device. The processing device may include any suitable processing device, such as, but not limited to, a general purpose processor, a special purpose processor, a digital signal processor, one or more microprocessors, one or more microprocessors associated with a digital signal processor core, one or more application specific integrated circuits, one or more field programmable gate array circuits, one or more integrated circuits, and / or a state machine. The memory device may include any suitable memory device, such as, but not limited to, a read-only memory, a random access memory, one or more digital registers, a cache memory, one or more semiconductor memory devices, magnetic media such as an integrated hard disk and / or a removable memory, magneto-optical media, and / or optical media. The memory device stores instructions that can be executed by the processing device to control the operation of the stretch hooding machine 10.

[0045] The controller 600 is communicatively and operably connected to the film supply assembly 200 and any film sealing systems included therein (e.g., the film sealing system 220, as further described below); the film opening assembly 300; the wrapping carriage actuator 410; the first set of take-up device actuators 420a and the second set of take-up device actuators 440a; and the first set of roller actuators 426, the second set of roller actuators 436, the third set of roller actuators 446, and the fourth set of roller actuators 456; the first carriage actuator 427, the second carriage actuator 437, the third carriage actuator 447, and the fourth carriage actuator 457. The controller 600 is communicatively connected to the operator interface 500 to: (1) receive signals from the operator interface 500 representing inputs received by the operator interface 500; and (2) send signals to the operator interface 500 to cause the operator interface 500 to output (e.g., display) information.

[0046] At the beginning of the wrapping process, a tubular film segment is produced. In this exemplary embodiment, the controller 600 controls the film supply assembly 200 to pull the tubular film from the film roll R, optionally forming a complete seal or a partial seal along the upper end of the tubular film segment, and cutting the film to a desired length (depending on the height of the load) to form a tubular film segment F. The bottom portion of the tubular film segment is then opened. In this exemplary embodiment, the controller 600 controls the film opening assembly 300 (and more specifically, the suction box and the holding device) to open the bottom portion of the tubular film segment F so that the shape of its periphery is generally rectangular, as explained above.

[0047] The retractors are then moved to their insertion positions. In the exemplary embodiment, the controller 600 controls the first set of retractor actuators 420a and the second set of retractor actuators 440a to move the respective retractors 420, 430, 440, and 450 laterally inwardly relative to the tubular film segment F (in the X and Y directions and generally parallel to the XY plane) to their respective insertion positions where they are in the insertion configuration. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The retractors 420, 430, 440 and 450 are shown in their insertion positions. The insertion positions are preset (e.g., by an operator) based on several factors, including the size of the film (e.g., its unstretched circumference). Figure 3 As shown for the take-in device 420, the first bracket 424, the second bracket 434, the third bracket 444 and the fourth bracket 454 of the first take-in device 420, the second take-in device 430, the third take-in device 440 and the fourth take-in device 450 are in their respective original positions. The wrapping tray is then raised so that the take-in fingers of the take-in devices are received in the open bottom portion of the tubular film segment. In this exemplary embodiment, the controller 600 controls the wrapping tray actuator 410 to raise the wrapping tray so that the take-in fingers 422, 432, 442 and 452 of the respective take-in devices 420, 430, 440 and 450 are received in the open bottom portion of the tubular film segment F.

[0048] The stowage devices are then moved to their stowed positions, and the stowage devices stow the tubular film segment onto the stowage fingers. In the exemplary embodiment, the controller 600 controls the first set of stowage device actuators 420a and the second set of stowage device actuators 440a to move the respective stowage devices 420, 430, 440, and 450 laterally outward relative to the tubular film segment F (in the X and Y directions and generally parallel to the X-Y plane) to the respective stowage positions of the stowage devices, in which the stowage devices are in a stowed configuration in preparation for stowing the tubular film segment F. Then, the controller 600 controls the first bracket actuator 427, the second bracket actuator 437, the third bracket actuator 447, and the fourth bracket actuator 457 to move the corresponding brackets 424, 434, 444, and 454 from their corresponding original positions to their corresponding retracted positions, which causes the driving wheels 425, 435, 445, and 455 of the retracting devices 420, 430, 440, and 450 to contact the inner surface F of the tubular film segment F. IS contact and force the outer surface F of the tubular film segment F OS Abut against corresponding guide wheels 422a, 432a, 442a and 452a. Figures 6 to 8The stowage devices 420, 430, 440, and 450 are shown in their stowed positions after their carriages have moved to their respective stowed positions. In some embodiments, when the stowage devices move to their stowed positions, the carriages move to their stowed positions. The controller 600 then controls the first roller actuator 426, the second roller actuator 436, the third roller actuator 446, and the fourth roller actuator 456 to drive the first drive roller 425, the second drive roller 435, the third drive roller 445, and the fourth drive roller 455 in the stowed rotation direction, thereby stowing the tubular film segment F onto the stowage fingers 422, 432, 442, and 452. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 The retraction devices 420 , 430 , 440 , and 450 are shown after being retracted.

[0049] The stowage devices then begin to move toward the respective wrapping positions to form the wrapping configuration. In this exemplary embodiment, the controller 600 controls the first set of stowage device actuators 420a and the second set of stowage device actuators 440a to cause the respective stowage devices 420, 430, 440, and 450 to begin moving from their respective stowing positions to their respective wrapping positions, thereby stretching the tubular film segment. Here, the wrapping positions of the respective stowage devices are positioned laterally outward (in the X and Y directions and generally parallel to the XY plane) relative to the stowing positions. In addition, the stowage devices each follow a 45 degree path in the XY plane when moving from their respective stowing positions to their respective wrapping positions (although in other embodiments, the movement paths and resulting angles may be different).

[0050] After the stowage device has reached the wrapping configuration, the wrapping carrier is lowered relative to the load (at Figure 1 The film is drawn down from the drawer fingers and the drawer is moved downwards. The drawer is moved downwards ...

[0051] Figure 12 to Figure 14 An exemplary embodiment using a sealing system 220 is shown for forming a partial seal at the upper end of a tubular film section to wrap an item including a pallet P and a load L. The tubular film roll R used in this exemplary embodiment is Fig.11As shown in the figure, the film F disposed on the roll R has a tubular form having an opening 40 at the free end of the film F, which provides access to the interior of the tubular film F. The tubular film F is pulled from the roll as a flat sheet having a width extending from an edge extending along a first side 41 of the sheet to an edge extending along a second side 45 of the sheet. Along each side of the tubular film sheet F, a portion of the film is folded to form a gusset. For example, as Fig.11 As shown, a first gusset 42 is formed along a first side 41 and extends inwardly toward the center of the tubular film sheet to a folded edge 44. Similarly, a second gusset 46 is formed along a second side 45 and extends inwardly toward the center of the sheet to a folded edge 48. When the tubular film F is opened to provide an interior space for a load, the folded edges 44, 48 of the gussets 42, 46 move away from each other so that the interior of the tubular film F can expand.

[0052] When the tubular film F is flat, such as when the tubular film is removed from the film roll R and before it is opened, the area of ​​the sheet between the first side 41 of the sheet and the folded edge 44 of the first gusset 42 is stacked into four layers. Similarly, the area of ​​the sheet between the second side 45 and the folded edge 48 of the second gusset is also stacked into four layers. On the other hand, the first gusset 42 and the second gusset 46 each have a width less than half the width of the film roll R, so that there is a gap between the folded edge 44 of the first gusset 42 and the folded edge 48 of the second gusset 46. In the gap area between the folded edge 44 of the first gusset 46 and the folded edge 48 of the second gusset 46, the flat tubular film F has two layers.

[0053] Fig.12 and Fig.13 A sealing system 220 is shown associated with the film supply assembly 200 of the stretch hooding machine 10. Rollers 210, which are part of the film supply assembly, direct the tubular film F to the sealing system 220, where the tubular film F is partially sealed to form a partially closed end of the tubular film segment. The stretch hooding machine may also include additional rollers to direct the tubular film F to other parts of the machine, such as a film opening assembly. Fig.12 and Fig.13 The illustrated sealing system 220 includes a first sealing unit 230 and a second sealing unit 240 configured to receive a tubular membrane in a flat configuration and form a seal on a portion of the tubular membrane.

[0054] The first sealing unit 230 is positioned at the first side 41 of the tubular film F, and the second sealing unit 240 is positioned at the second side 45 of the tubular film F. A gap 222 is provided between the first sealing unit 230 and the second sealing unit 240. Because there is a gap between the two sealing units 230, 240, when the tubular film F is sealed by the sealing system 220, an opening is maintained between the two sealing sections toward the center of the tubular film.

[0055] The first sealing unit 230 includes an elongated first sealing unit strip 232 and an elongated first auxiliary sealing unit strip 234. Each of the first sealing unit strip 232 and the first auxiliary sealing unit strip 234 includes a heating element, such as a sealing wire, which forms a seal in the tubular film F by heating the layers of the tubular film so that the layers are connected together. The second sealing unit 240 similarly includes a second sealing unit strip 242 and a second auxiliary sealing unit strip 244. In other embodiments, the sealing unit may include a single heating component. For example, in some embodiments, the first sealing unit may include a first sealing unit strip that includes a heating element and is capable of forming a seal without an auxiliary sealing unit strip.

[0056] Fig.12 The sealing system 220 is shown in a deactivated state so that the tubular film F can move through the sealing system 220 when a new tubular film section is pulled from the tubular film roll. Fig.13 The sealing system 220 is shown in an activated state for forming a seal in a tubular film F. In the illustrated embodiment, when in the deactivated state, the sealing unit strips 232, 242 are physically separated from the auxiliary sealing unit strips 234, 244. However, in some embodiments, the opposing strips of the sealing unit can be configured to be activated and deactivated without moving components of the sealing unit. For example, the sealing unit can have a gap that allows the tubular film to move through the sealing unit, but is narrow enough to seal the film when activated.

[0057] Fig.14 A tubular film segment is shown which has been partially sealed at its upper end by a sealing system 220. In particular, a first sealing unit 230 has formed a first sealing segment 52 on one side of the tubular film F, and a second sealing unit 240 has formed a second sealing segment 54 on the other side of the tubular film F. An opening 56 is provided between the two sealing segments 52, 54 and corresponds to a gap 222 in the sealing system 220. Fig.14 The tubular film section F is shown retracted and arranged to be wrapped around the items forming the load L and the pallet P. For clarity, Fig.14Stretch hooding machine is not shown in FIG. As shown, the height of the load L is not consistent across the footprint of the load, and thus a completely open top end of the tubular film section may be undesirable for wrapping the load L. By partially sealing the tubular film section F at the top end, the tubular film may have a higher probability of being tightly wrapped around the load L to hold it in place. On the other hand, the opening 56 provided between the first sealing section 52 and the second sealing section 54 allows access between the interior of the tubular film and the external environment when the tubular film section is wrapped around the load L, which may help control moisture or other environmental conditions inside the tubular film.

[0058] like Fig.12 and Fig.13 As shown, the sealing system 220 is configured to form a sealing section to extend across the folded gusset formed in the tubular film sheet. Specifically, the first sealing unit 230 is configured to pass through the entire folded section of the tubular film that forms the first gusset along the first side 41 of the tubular film F. The first sealing unit 230 extends inwardly from the edge along the first side 41 of the tubular film F through the inner folded edge 44 of the first gusset. Therefore, when the seal is formed, all four layers in the first gusset are linked together. Similarly, the second sealing unit 240 is also configured to pass through the entire folded section of the tubular film that forms the second gusset along the second side 45 of the tubular film F. The second sealing unit 240 extends inwardly from the edge along the second side 45 of the tubular film F through the inner folded edge 48 of the second gusset.

[0059] Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the sealing units 230, 240 extend inwardly past the inner folded edges of the sealing units so that the corresponding sealing sections extend into the two-layer center section of the tubular film. The first sealing unit 230 extends inwardly past the inner folded edge 44 of the first gusset, and the second sealing unit 240 extends inwardly past the inner folded edge 48 of the second gusset. Accordingly, a portion of the center section of the tubular film between the folded edges 44, 48 (where the film has only two layers) is also sealed together.

[0060] In other embodiments, the sealing unit can be configured to extend on different parts of the tubular film. For example, in some embodiments, the sealing unit can be configured to form a sealing section only in the region of the gusset that forms the fold. Further, in some embodiments, the sealing unit can be configured to seal the tubular film only near the outer edge so that the opening extends into the gusset. In addition, in some embodiments, the sealing unit can be configured to seal the tubular film in the region spaced apart from the outer edge so that the opening remains at the outer edge of the tubular film. Similarly, in some embodiments, the sealing system can include a single sealing unit that is configured to extend across the central portion of the tubular film and leave an opening in the film towards the edge.

[0061] Prior to removing the wrapped articles from the stretch hooding machine, a section of tubular film surrounding the load is cut from the tubular film roll. In some embodiments, the tubular film is cut after being pulled from the roll and before being sealed. In other embodiments, the tubular film is first sealed and then cut. Further, in some embodiments, the tubular film is cut and sealed simultaneously. The tubular film may also be cut and / or sealed later in the wrapping process, such as after being taken in or even after the load is wrapped.

[0062] Figures 15 to 18 Various embodiments of sealing systems for stretch hooding machines are presented which allow seals of varying lengths to be formed on tubular film. Fig.15 Shows that including similar Fig.12 and Fig.13 12 is an embodiment of a sealing system 1220 shown, the sealing system includes a first sealing unit 1230 and a second sealing unit 1240. Again, the first sealing unit 1230 is formed by a first sealing unit strip 1232 and a first auxiliary sealing unit strip 1234 on one side of the tubular film sheet. The second sealing unit 1240 is formed by a second sealing unit strip 1242 and a second auxiliary sealing unit strip 1244 on the opposite side of the tubular film sheet. The sealing system 1220 is operably connected to a controller 1600 of a stretch hooding machine so that the controller 1600 can enable the sealing units 1230, 1240 to form a partial seal on the tubular film sheet F. As further explained above, the sealing units 1230, 1240 can be enabled and disabled by physically moving the sealing unit strips toward and away from the film, by energizing or disconnecting the sealing unit strips, or both.

[0063] Fig.15 The configuration in also includes an additional sealing system formed by a continuous sealing unit 1270 extending across the entire width of the strip of tubular film F. The continuous sealing unit 1270 includes a continuous sealing unit strip 1272 and an auxiliary continuous sealing unit strip 1274 that cooperate to form a seal extending across the width of the tubular film F. The continuous sealing unit 1270 is operably connected to a controller 1600 of the stretch hooding machine so that the controller 1600 can enable the continuous sealing unit 1270 to form a complete seal on the tubular film.

[0064] use Fig.15In the configuration shown, the controller 1600 can select whether to form a complete seal by activating the continuous sealing unit 1270, to form a partial seal by activating the first sealing unit 1230 and the second sealing unit 1240, or to form no seal on the upper end of the tubular film segment. For example, the controller 1600 can select the type of seal to be formed on the tubular film based on input from a user, based on stored data associated with the load being wrapped, or based on readable information provided about the load being wrapped, for example.

[0065] Fig.16 An embodiment is shown that includes a sealing system 2220 that includes a sealing system similar to Fig.12 , Fig.13 and Fig.15 The first sealing unit 2230 and the second sealing unit 2240, and the third sealing unit 2250. The first sealing unit 2230 and the second sealing unit 2240 are jointly connected to the controller 2600 and are configured to be activated together. In contrast, the third sealing unit 2250 is independently connected to the controller 2600. This configuration allows the controller to choose whether to form a complete seal on the tubular film by activating the first sealing unit 2230, the second sealing unit 2240 and the third sealing unit 2250, or to form a partial seal by only activating the first sealing unit 2230 and the second sealing unit 2240. Similarly, as described above, the sealing units 2230, 2240, 2250 can be activated and deactivated by physically moving the sealing unit strips toward and away from the film, by energizing or disconnecting the sealing unit strips, or both.

[0066] In the depicted embodiment, the third sealing unit 2250 is arranged in line with the first sealing unit 2230 and the second sealing unit 2240. In addition, the third sealing unit 2250 shown is configured to be activated simultaneously with the first sealing unit 2230 and the second sealing unit 2250. In other embodiments, the third sealing unit can be located at a different position and configured to seal the gap formed between the sealing sections provided by the first sealing unit and the second seal at different times. For example, the stretch hood machine can be configured to move the film to the third sealing unit after forming the first sealing section and the second sealing section.

[0067] Fig.17 Shows something like Fig.16, but includes a single sealing unit 3230 with sections that can be enabled independently. Specifically, the sealing unit 3230 includes a first sealing section 3233, a second sealing section 3234, and a third sealing section 3235. The first sealing section 3233 and the second sealing section 3234 are positioned at the ends of the sealing unit 3230, while the third sealing section 3235 is positioned toward the middle. Therefore, the controller 3600 can enable different sections to selectively produce a partial seal or a complete seal on the tubular film. For example, by enabling the first sealing section 3233 and the second sealing section 3234, the controller 3600 can control the sealing unit 3230 to form a partial seal with the opening toward the center. Alternatively, the controller 3600 can only enable the third sealing section 3235 to form a partial seal toward the middle of the tubular film. Furthermore, the controller 3600 may activate the entire sealing unit 3230 , including the first sealing section 3233 , the second sealing section 3234 , and the third sealing section 3235 , to form a seal on the entire tubular membrane.

[0068] Fig.18 Another embodiment of a sealing system 4220 including a first sealing unit 4230 is shown. Unlike the previously described embodiments, the first sealing unit 4230 extends across the center of the tubular film and is configured to form a seal across the entire center section between the gussets. However, the first sealing unit 4230 has a length that is shorter than the width of the tubular film sheet and is therefore configured to leave an unsealed section at the outer edge of the tubular film. Therefore, the first sealing unit 4230 will form four openings at the outer corners of the tubular film.

[0069] The first sealing unit 4230 is operatively connected to the controller 4600. Further, Fig.18 The system shown also includes another sealing system including a continuous sealing unit 4270, which is also operatively connected to the controller 4600. Therefore, the controller 4600 can choose whether to form a partial seal by activating the first sealing unit 4230 or to form a complete seal by activating the continuous sealing unit 4270.

[0070] While the sealing units described above are configured to form an entire seal section at one time, in other embodiments, the methods described herein may be performed using a sealing device that forms a seal while traveling through a tubular membrane, such as a rolling sealing unit, a laser, or another moving sealing configuration.

[0071] The present disclosure also provides a method for performing a series of wrapping operations to wrap articles with different sealing configurations. For example, in the series of wrapping operations, a first wrapping operation includes: receiving a first article in a stretch hooding machine; pulling a first tubular film segment from a film roll; forming a first sealing segment at a first end of the first tubular film segment, wherein the first sealing segment extends only across a portion of the width of the tubular film so as to provide a partial seal with a first opening at the first end of the first tubular film segment; positioning the first tubular film segment on a plurality of take-up devices; taking the first tubular film segment up onto take-up fingers of the plurality of take-up devices; lowering the take-up devices around the first article to wrap the first article within the interior of the tubular film, wherein the first opening at the first end of the first tubular film segment provides a passage between the interior of the tubular film and an external environment; and removing the wrapped first article from the stretch hooding machine.

[0072] The second wrapping operation in the series of wrapping operations includes: receiving a second article in the stretch hood machine; pulling a second tubular film segment from a film roll; forming a complete seal at a first end of the second tubular film segment; positioning the second tubular film segment on a plurality of take-up devices; taking up the second tubular film segment onto take-up fingers of the plurality of take-up devices; lowering the take-up devices around the second article to wrap the second article within the interior of the tubular film; and removing the wrapped second article from the stretch hood machine.

[0073] Forming the first sealing section in the first wrapping operation may be performed according to any of the methods described above using the described sealing system.

[0074] In some embodiments, the series of wrapping operations includes a third wrapping operation, which includes: receiving a third article in the stretch hood machine; pulling out a third tubular film segment from a film roll; positioning the third tubular film segment on a plurality of take-up devices; taking up the third tubular film segment onto take-up fingers of a plurality of take-up devices; lowering the take-up devices around the third article to wrap the third article within the interior of the tubular film, and wherein an upper end of the third tubular film segment is not sealed; and removing the wrapped third article from the stretch hood machine.

[0075] Therefore, in various embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method of operating a stretch hooding machine to wrap an article with a tubular film segment. The method includes pulling a tubular film segment from a film roll and forming a first sealing segment at a first end of the tubular film segment. The first sealing segment extends only across a portion of the width of the tubular film so as to provide a partial seal with a first opening at the first end of the tubular film segment. The method also includes positioning the tubular film segment on a plurality of take-up devices and taking the tubular film segment onto take-up fingers of the take-up devices. Further, the method includes lowering the take-up device around the article to wrap the article within the interior of the tubular film. The first opening at the first end of the tubular film segment provides a passage between the interior of the tubular film and the external environment.

[0076] In various such embodiments of the method, the method further includes forming a second sealing section at the first end of the tubular film section, the second sealing section being spaced apart from the first sealing section by a gap to form an opening between the first sealing section and the second sealing section.

[0077] In various such embodiments of the method, a first portion of the tubular film is folded to form a first gusset along a first side of the tubular film, and wherein at least a portion of the first sealing section joins four layers of the tubular film formed by the first gusset.

[0078] In various such embodiments of the method, the first sealing section extends from an outer edge of the tubular film across a first portion of the entire fold of the tubular film to an inner folded edge of the first gusset.

[0079] In various such embodiments of the method, another portion of the first sealing section extends inwardly from the first gusset and joins the two opposing tubular film layers.

[0080] In various such embodiments of the method, the method further includes separating the tubular film segment from the film roll after forming the first sealing segment at the first end of the tubular film segment.

[0081] In various such embodiments of the method, the first sealing section is formed by a sealing system comprising a first sealing unit strip.

[0082] In various such embodiments of the method, the first sealing unit strip includes a heating element.

[0083] In various such embodiments of the method, the length of the first sealing unit strip is less than the width of the film roll.

[0084] In various other embodiments, the present disclosure further provides a stretch hooding machine, the stretch hooding machine comprising: a machine frame; a wrapping bracket, the wrapping bracket being movable between an upper position and a lower position relative to the machine frame; and a plurality of take-up devices, the plurality of take-up devices being supported by the wrapping bracket and configured to wrap a tubular film segment around an article. The film supply assembly is configured to guide the tubular film segment from a tubular film roll having a first width to the take-up device. The stretch hooding machine further comprises a sealing system, the sealing system comprising a first sealing unit strip, the length of the first sealing unit strip being less than the first width of the tubular film roll and being configured to form a first sealing segment at a first end of the tubular film segment, the first sealing segment extending only across a portion of the width of the tubular film so as to provide a partial seal having a first opening at the first end of the tubular film segment.

[0085] In various such embodiments of the stretch hooding machine, the sealing system includes a second sealing unit strip arranged to be aligned with the first sealing unit strip and spaced apart from the first sealing unit strip by a gap.

[0086] In various other embodiments, the present disclosure further provides a stretch hooding machine, the stretch hooding machine comprising: a machine frame; a wrapping bracket that is movable between an upper position and a lower position relative to the machine frame; and a plurality of take-up devices supported by the wrapping bracket and configured to wrap a tubular film segment around an article. The film supply assembly is configured to guide the tubular film segment from a tubular film roll having a first width to the take-up device. The machine also includes a sealing system that includes a first sealing unit strip and a second sealing unit strip, the first sealing unit strip and the second sealing unit strip extending along a first line and separated by a gap along the first line, and configured to provide a partial seal having an opening corresponding to the gap between the first sealing unit strip and the second sealing unit strip.

[0087] In various such embodiments of the stretch hood machine, the stretch hood machine further includes an additional sealing system, which includes a continuous sealing unit strip having a length greater than the combined length of the first sealing unit strip and the second sealing unit strip and is configured to form a sealing section extending across the entire width of the tubular film.

[0088] In various such embodiments of the stretch hood machine, the stretch hood machine further comprises a controller configured to selectively enable: the first sealing unit strip and the second sealing unit strip to form a partial seal on the tubular film having an opening therein, or the continuous sealing unit strip to form a seal extending across the entire width of the tubular film.

[0089] In various such embodiments of the stretch hooding machine, the sealing system comprises a third sealing unit strip arranged in line between the first sealing unit strip and the second sealing unit strip.

[0090] In various such embodiments of the stretch hood machine, the stretch hood machine further includes a controller configured to selectively enable: the first sealing unit strip and the second sealing unit strip to form a partial seal on the tubular film having an opening therein, or the first sealing unit strip, the second sealing unit strip, and the third sealing unit strip to form a seal extending across the entire width of the tubular film.

[0091] A variety of different changes and modifications to the above-described embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. These changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the subject matter and without reducing its intended advantages. Not all depicted branches described in the present disclosure are required, and some implementations may include additional, different, or fewer branches than those explicitly described in the present disclosure. The arrangement and type of components; the shape, size, and material of the components; and the manner in which the branches are attached and connected may be varied without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims set forth herein. In addition, unless otherwise stated, any direction mentioned herein reflects the orientation of the branches shown in the corresponding drawings and does not limit the scope of the present disclosure. This specification is intended to be considered as a whole and to be interpreted in accordance with the principles of the present invention as taught herein and understood by those of ordinary skill in the art.

Claims

1. A method of operating a stretch hooding machine to wrap an article with a tubular film, the method include: Pulling the tubular film from the film roll; forming a first sealing section at a first end of the tubular film section, wherein the first sealing section extends across only a portion of a width of the tubular film to provide a partial seal having a first opening at the first end of the tubular film section; positioning the tubular film on a plurality of take-up devices; retracting the tubular film onto retracting fingers of the retracting device; and The take-up device is lowered around the article to wrap the article within the interior of the tubular film, wherein the first opening at the first end of the tubular film segment provides a passage between the interior of the tubular film and an external environment.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: include: A second sealing section is formed at a first end of the tubular film section spaced apart from the first sealing section by a gap so as to form an opening between the first sealing section and the second sealing section.

3. The method according to claim 1, in, A first portion of the tubular film is folded to form a first gusset along a first side of the tubular film, and wherein at least a portion of the first sealing section joins four layers of the tubular film formed by the first gusset.

4. The method according to claim 3, in, The first sealing section extends from an outer edge of the tubular film across a first portion of an entire fold of the tubular film to an inner folded edge of the first gusset.

5. The method according to claim 3, in, Another portion of the first sealing section extends inwardly from the first gusset and joins two opposing tubular film layers.

6. The method of claim 1, further comprising: include: After forming the first sealing section at the first end of the tubular film section, the tubular film section is separated from the film roll.

7. The method according to claim 1, in, The first sealing section is formed by a sealing system comprising a first sealing unit strip.

8. The method according to claim 7, in, The first sealing unit bar includes a heating element.

9. The method according to claim 7, in, The length of the first sealing unit strip is smaller than the width of the film roll.

10. A stretch hood machine, the stretch hood machine include: Machine frame; a wrapping carriage movable between an upper position and a lower position relative to the machine frame; a plurality of take-up devices supported by the wrapping bracket and configured to wrap a tubular film around an article; a film supply assembly configured to direct the tubular film from a tubular film roll having a first width to the take-up device; as well as A sealing system comprising a first sealing unit strip having a length less than a first width of the tubular film roll and configured to form a first sealing segment at the first end of the tubular film segment, the first sealing segment extending only across a portion of the width of the tubular film so as to provide a partial seal having a first opening at the first end of the tubular film segment.

11. The stretch hooding machine according to claim 10, in, The sealing system includes a second sealing unit bar arranged to be aligned with the first sealing unit bar and spaced apart from the first sealing unit bar by a gap.

12. The stretch hooding machine of claim 11, further comprising: include: An additional sealing system includes a continuous sealing unit strip having a length greater than a combined length of the first sealing unit strip and the second sealing unit strip and configured to form a sealing section extending over the entire width of the tubular film.

13. The stretch hooding machine of claim 12, further comprising: include: A controller configured to selectively enable: the first sealing unit strip and the second sealing unit strip so as to form a partial seal on the tubular film having an opening therein, or The continuous sealing unit strip is so as to form a seal extending across the entire width of the tubular film.

14. The stretch hooding machine of claim 11, in, The sealing system includes a third sealing unit bar arranged in a straight line between the first sealing unit bar and the second sealing unit bar.

15. The stretch hooding machine of claim 14, further comprising: include: A controller configured to selectively enable: the first sealing unit strip and the second sealing unit strip so as to form a partial seal on the tubular film having an opening therein, or The first sealing unit strip, the second sealing unit strip and the third sealing unit strip are arranged to form a seal extending across the entire width of the tubular film.

16. A stretch hood machine, the stretch hood machine include: Machine frame; a wrapping carriage movable between an upper position and a lower position relative to the machine frame; a plurality of take-up devices supported by the wrapping bracket and configured to wrap a tubular film around an article; a film supply assembly configured to direct the tubular film from a tubular film roll having a first width to the take-up device; as well as A sealing system comprising a first sealing unit strip and a second sealing unit strip, wherein the first sealing unit strip and the second sealing unit strip extend along a first line and are separated by a gap along the first line, and are configured to provide a partial seal having an opening corresponding to the gap between the first sealing unit strip and the second sealing unit strip.

17. The stretch hooding machine of claim 16, further comprising: include: An additional sealing system includes a continuous sealing unit strip having a length greater than a combined length of the first sealing unit strip and the second sealing unit strip and configured to form a sealing section extending over the entire width of the tubular film.

18. The stretch hooding machine of claim 17, further comprising: include: A controller configured to selectively enable: the first sealing unit strip and the second sealing unit strip so as to form a partial seal on the tubular film having an opening therein, or The continuous sealing unit strip is so as to form a seal extending across the entire width of the tubular film.

19. The stretch hooding machine of claim 16, in, The sealing system includes a third sealing unit bar arranged in a straight line between the first sealing unit bar and the second sealing unit bar.

20. The stretch hooding machine of claim 19, further comprising: include: A controller configured to selectively enable: the first sealing unit strip and the second sealing unit strip so as to form a partial seal on the tubular film having an opening therein, or The first sealing unit strip, the second sealing unit strip and the third sealing unit strip are arranged to form a seal extending across the entire width of the tubular film.

Images