Sealing machine for sealing sausage products

Abstract

A sealing machine (100) for sealing sausage products, having a gripping mechanism (101), a separating mechanism (102) and a binding mechanism (10), at least the binding mechanism being independently drivable in the circulation of the sealing machine, but cooperating with the gripping mechanism and the separating mechanism, when operating in a production mode (P1 to P4), the clamping mechanism, the separating mechanism, and the binding mechanism are each in the same position at the beginning and the end of the cycle. The sealing machine further comprises a staple supply mechanism (20) for supplying staples to the binding mechanism, which staple supply mechanism can be driven independently of the gripping mechanism, the separating mechanism and the binding mechanism.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to a sealing machine for sealing sausage products, which has a binding mechanism and a nail supply mechanism. When operating in the production mode, both the binding mechanism and the nail supply mechanism can be driven in coordination in the cycle of the sealing machine. Among them, the sealing machine can ensure the seal by pressing at least one nail around the empty sausage product portion. Background Art

[0002] Patent document EP 0935421 discloses a sealing machine for sealing sausage products, which has a binding mechanism, a clamping mechanism and a separating mechanism. When operating in the production mode, the binding mechanism, the clamping mechanism and the separating mechanism can be driven in coordination in the cycle of the sealing machine.

[0003] The binding mechanism is of such a type that it has an upper jaw and a lower jaw. When operating in the production mode, in the cycle of the sealing machine, the upper jaw and the lower jaw can be driven from the maximum distance position to the closest position and then driven back to the maximum distance position again. In each cycle, the filled sausage product being produced is provided and placed between the upper jaw and the lower jaw.

[0004] The clamping mechanism has two pairs of heads. Among them, when operating in the production mode, in the cycle of the sealing machine, each pair of heads can be driven from the maximum distance position to the closest position in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the sausage product and then driven back to the maximum distance position again. The same pair of heads is configured such that when in the closest position, it clamps the sausage product placed between them.

[0005] The separating mechanism can be driven to move each pair of heads of the clamping mechanism in the longitudinal direction of the sausage product and move from the closest position to the maximum distance position to create an empty product portion in the filled sausage product when the heads are in the closest position.

[0006] The binding mechanism has an associated nail supply mechanism for placing two nails between the upper jaw and the lower jaw of the binding mechanism, so that the upper jaw and the lower jaw close to press around the empty product portion. One nail seals the end of a sausage product unit, and the other nail seals the start of another sausage product unit. All of these are carried out in such a way that when cutting the empty sausage product between the two nails that have just sealed around the above-mentioned empty sausage product portion, the finished sausage product unit is separated from the unit immediately following it on the production line, and the start of the latter has already been sealed.

[0007] Document EP 0935421 proposes that the binding mechanism, the clamping mechanism, and the separating mechanism each have an electric motor so that the binding mechanism, the clamping mechanism, and the separating mechanism can be driven and the driving can be coordinated electronically. Therefore, the sealing machine can operate in a production mode such that, in the cycle of the sealing machine, the driving times of the binding mechanism, the clamping mechanism, and the separating mechanism overlap as required.

[0008] Theoretically, such overlap can increase productivity, that is, when operating in a production mode, the cycle of the sealing machine can be shortened. However, practice shows that: in the production mode, there are limitations that interfere with or prevent the cycle of the sealing machine from being shortened as expected. For example, the number of accidents that force the sealing machine to stop will increase.

[0009] The first object of the present application is to construct a sealing machine to increase the productivity of a known sealing machine.

[0010] Not reducing the number of binding operations per unit time but ensuring fewer accidents is considered to increase productivity.

[0011] Better use of the nails stored in the nail box, for example, the nails wound around a core or a reel are stretched by the sealing machine as needed, which is considered to increase productivity.

[0012] Reducing the time required to replace the nail box with a new one and / or facilitating such replacement operation and / or providing greater safety for the operator (and allocating fewer resources for this) is considered to increase productivity.

[0013] The reduction in the number of accidents is considered to increase productivity.

[0014] Patent document EP 1969946 discloses a sealing machine for sealing sausage products. The lower jaw of the sealing machine has a press die and a nail supply mechanism so that, when operating in a production mode, in each cycle of the sealing machine, a nail is placed between the upper jaw and the lower jaw of the binding mechanism, specifically, on the press die.

[0015] Document EP 1969946 envisions that the nail supply mechanism includes an eccentric member that serves as a driving member of a gear element configured to engage with a nail chain and ensure the stepping of the nail chain in the feeding direction. When the upper jaw and the lower jaw are driven from their maximum distance position to their closest position, the nail in the nail chain is placed on the press die for pressing.

[0016] For example, the rotational motion can be transmitted to the eccentric member by means of a belt or chain drive, and the belt or chain is in turn driven by the main shaft of the sealing machine, which also drives the binding mechanism. Document EP 1969946 also points out the possibility of changing the drive of the eccentric member by a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder. Summary of the Invention

[0017] The driving of the clamping mechanism, the separating mechanism and the binding mechanism includes: when working in the production mode, in each cycle of the sealing machine, the driving of the clamping mechanism, the separating mechanism and the binding mechanism will overlap as needed, and the time for driving the clamping mechanism, the separating mechanism and the binding mechanism will undoubtedly shorten the cycle time.

[0018] This shortening of the cycle time is satisfactory.

[0019] However, the inventors of the present application have still found some problems that have not been discovered.

[0020] To solve these problems, a machine similar to the sealing machine described in claim 1 is proposed.

[0021] As is known, the sealing machine has a clamping mechanism, a separating mechanism and a binding mechanism. Among them, when working in the production mode, at least the binding mechanism can be independently driven in the cycle of the sealing machine, but in cooperation with the clamping mechanism and the separating mechanism, and the clamping mechanism, the separating mechanism and the binding mechanism are in the same position at the beginning and end of the cycle respectively.

[0022] According to the sealing machine described in claim 1, the sealing machine includes a nail supply mechanism for supplying nails to the binding mechanism, and the nail supply mechanism is a nail supply mechanism that can be driven independently of the gripper structure, the separating mechanism and the binding mechanism.

[0023] As will be described later, this enables the sealing machine to drive the nail supply mechanism to produce various effects beneficial to improving productivity in a way other than shortening the execution time of the cycle when the sealing machine works in the production mode.

[0024] In one embodiment, the binding mechanism includes a first jaw with a punch head and a second jaw with a die. When working in the production mode, the first jaw and the second jaw can be driven from the maximum distance position to the closest position in the cycle of the sealing machine, can ensure sealing by pressing at least one nail placed between the punch head and the die, and can be driven back to the maximum distance position again; the nail supply mechanism is attached to one of the first jaw and the second jaw of the binding mechanism.

[0025] The nail supply mechanism includes at least one moving gear element, and the moving gear element is configured to be able to be driven to engage with the corresponding nail chain and ensure the stepping of the nail chain in the feeding direction through conveying, so as to place the nails in the nail chain between the punch head and the die for pressing.

[0026] In the above embodiment, the seaming machine is equipped with a programmable control unit, which is programmed to drive the moving gear element of the nail supply mechanism as follows: a) when operating in the production mode, always follow different driving speeds in the same cycle of the seaming machine; and / or b) follow different driving modes or driving schemes between different operations in the production mode; and / or c) when operating in the production mode, convey the nail chain in the feeding direction (D) during the time elapsed between two consecutive cycles of the seaming machine; and / or d) when the seaming machine is operating in the production mode without performing a cycle.

[0027] Therefore, the present application contemplates a seaming machine that is configured to move the moving gear element in accordance with any one of a), b), c) and d) in the case of including a), b), c) and d); or in accordance with several of a), b), c) and d).

[0028] The drive of the nail supply mechanism is independent of the clamping mechanism, the separating mechanism and the binding mechanism, such that its drive overlaps more or less with the drive of the mechanisms described below, which does not help to increase the speed of known seaming machines, because when operating in the production mode, only the mechanism is required to ensure that new nails are placed between the punch and the die in each cycle of the seaming machine, and the time required for this is less than the time elapsed between the instant after pressing the nail and the instant before pressing the new nail. In other words, when operating in the production mode, the time required to supply new nails is not the bottleneck of the cycle of the seaming machine.

[0029] Therefore, it is not possible to improve the shortening of the cycle time by increasing the drive speed of the nail supply mechanism. The shortening of the cycle time is achieved by overlapping the time when the binder structure, the gripper structure and the separating mechanism are driven.

[0030] Contrary to expectations and breaking with convention, the present application contemplates that the drive of the nail supply mechanism is independent of the clamping mechanism, the separating mechanism and the binding mechanism.

[0031] When the moving gear element engages with the nail chain and moves it forward, for example, separating the nail supply mechanism from other mechanisms causes it to be driven more slowly.

[0032] This can prevent the nail chain from being stressed and helps to protect the nail chain from moving forward too fast.

[0033] In fact, by simply making the nail supply mechanism follow the binding mechanism in this mode to increase the rhythm of the binding mechanism and increasing the speed of the moving gear element transmitted to the supply mechanism, in some cases it may cause the nail chain to be conveyed in an undesirable or too sudden manner. This may lead to a slight imbalance in its forward movement and poor placement of new nails between the jaws of the binding mechanism, and thus lead to an accident that requires a temporary stop in production.

[0034] Contrary to expectations and breaking with convention, the present application also contemplates that the drive of the moving gear element of the supply mechanism is independent of the clamping mechanism, the separating mechanism, and the binding mechanism, so that when operating in production mode, the time and position at which the gear element engages with the staple chain can be selected during the cycle of the sealer. Specifically, for example, the position where it is optimally arranged, so that when the jaws of the binding mechanism are in their closest position, the staples are pressed, which prevents the reverse movement of the staple chain that is usually exerted in the direction opposite to the forward movement direction of the staple chain.

[0035] In this way, the sealer can be constructed such that this optimal position varies according to the characteristics of the staples in the staple chain, for example, according to the height of the staples, as will be explained later.

[0036] In the situation described above, controlling the relevant position at which the moving gear element is located prevents the reverse movement of the staple chain, enabling compensation for the involuntary displacement of the moving gear element due to, for example, the transmission device used to drive it, as will also be explained later.

[0037] Therefore, a noteworthy variant of the present application is that when the moving gear element is hingedly connected to a crank and guided by inserting a fulcrum into a straight slider, for each full rotation of the crank in the same rotational direction, a reciprocating motion is transmitted to the distal end of the moving gear element, which is intended to engage with the staple chain, thereby imparting a path with an active portion and a return segment. When engaging with the staple chain, the moving gear element conveys the staple chain and ensures the stepping of the staple chain. The return segment is empty and does not engage with the staple chain. The return segment can stop the crank at an angular locking position such that the distal end of the moving gear element engages with the staple chain. The angular locking position is the final position of the return segment and the starting position of the active portion, where the above angular locking position is based on the specific parameters of the operation in the production mode being performed.

[0038] For example, the control unit can be configured such that the operator provides the value of the angular locking position to the control unit according to an empirical table.

[0039] For example, the control unit can include multiple programs that perform different operations at a predetermined value for the angular locking position in the production mode, and the operator can select the program to be executed.

[0040] All of these are for the purpose of being able to select the optimal value of the angular locking position according to the characteristics of the staples in the staple chain.

[0041] Contrary to expectations and breaking with convention, the present application also contemplates driving the moving gear element of the supply mechanism independently of the clamping mechanism, the separating mechanism, and the binding mechanism, so as to drive during the successive cycles of the seaming machine when operating in production mode. This makes it possible to start or complete the supply of new nails even when the material is being filled and the clamping mechanism and the separating mechanism are stationary or unable to interact with the product being manufactured. This helps to prevent stress on the nail chain and protects the nail chain from excessive forward movement.

[0042] Accordingly, a variant of the present application worthy of note is that the control unit is specifically programmed such that, when operating in production mode, it continues to drive the moving gear element to ensure that the stepping of the nail chain is completed within the time elapsed between two successive cycles of the seaming machine.

[0043] Contrary to expectations and breaking with convention, the present application also contemplates driving the moving gear element of the supply mechanism independently of the clamping mechanism, the separating mechanism, and the binding mechanism so that it can be driven when the seaming machine is not operating in production mode. This makes it possible, for example, to perform loading, unloading, or pairing operations on the nail chain without the need to drive the jaws of the binding mechanism and / or the clamping mechanism and the separating mechanism, thus facilitating these operations, protecting the operator and / or utilizing more nails from the nail chain than usual, all of which will be described in more detail later.

[0044] Accordingly, a variant of the present application worthy of note is that the programmable control unit is programmed such that, when the seaming machine is operating in loading mode A1, it drives the moving gear element of the nail supply mechanism to engage with the nail chain and ensure, by conveying, that the nail chain completes more than one successive step in the feed direction, during which the first and second jaws of the binding mechanism are not in the closest position.

[0045] Accordingly, another variant of the present application worthy of note is that the programmable control unit is programmed such that, when the seaming machine is operating in pairing mode A3, it drives the moving gear element of the nail supply mechanism to engage with the nail chain and ensure, by conveying, that the nail chain completes more than one successive step in the direction opposite to the feed direction, during which the first and second jaws of the binding mechanism are not in the closest position.

[0046] In one embodiment, the seaming machine is equipped with at least a first drive system and a second drive system that can be controlled by the control unit, wherein the first drive system ensures the driving of the first and second jaws of the binding mechanism, and the second drive system ensures the driving of the moving gear element of the nail supply mechanism.

[0047] For example, the first drive system and the second drive system may each include a servo motor of a known type, and these servo motors include an adjustment system in which both the speed and the position can be controlled. The control of these servo motors will be used to cooperate electronically with the mechanisms actuated by them.

[0048] In another embodiment, the seaming machine is equipped with a shared drive system, and the binding mechanism and the staple supply mechanism are coupled to the shared drive system through a power chain to ensure the coordinated drive of the first jaw, the second jaw, and the moving gear element of the staple supply mechanism; the power chain includes a clutch device, and the clutch device enables the binding mechanism to be mechanically separated from the shared drive system and disconnects the power chain, so that in at least one of the production mode, the loading mode, the unloading mode, and the pairing mode, during the operation of the seaming machine, the binding mechanism remains stationary, and the shared drive system can continue to drive the moving gear element of the staple supply mechanism, wherein the shared drive system and the clutch device are electronically controlled by a control unit.

[0049] For example, the shared drive system may include a servo motor of a known type, and the servo motor includes an adjustment system in which both the speed and the position can be controlled.

[0050] In a variant of the present application, the seaming machine has a detection device for determining whether the staple chain passes through one or more associated detection windows, and the control unit is programmed to: when determining whether the staple chain passes through one or more detection windows according to the signal generated by the detection device, the seaming machine operates at least in the production mode, or the loading mode, or the unloading mode.

[0051] In one embodiment, the detection window associated with the first detection device means covering one of the punch and the die, and the control unit is programmed to: when the seaming machine operates in the loading mode, stop driving the moving gear element when it is determined that the staple chain extends through the detection window.

[0052] In an embodiment where the moving gear element is hingedly connected to the crank, the stop can be performed at the end of the active section or at the end of the return section (the starting point of the active section).

[0053] In one embodiment, the detection window associated with the first detection device means covering one of the punch and the die; the control unit is programmed to: when the seaming machine operates in the production mode, stop driving the moving gear element when it is determined that the staple chain does not extend through the detection window. Advantageously, this causes the seaming machine to automatically stop when an accident occurs to the staple chain in the normal forward direction.

[0054] In a variant of the seaming machine with two moving gear elements, each moving gear element is associated with a staple chain, where n is the number of consecutive steps completed by the staple chain in the feed direction under the condition of driving the gear element during operation in the loading mode, and the control unit is programmed to: first operate the seaming machine in the pairing mode, and the operation of the seaming machine includes driving the gear element to ensure n consecutive steps of the staple chain in the opposite direction.

[0055] The number of steps n is known in advance, and this measure enables better utilization of the number of staples, as will be explained in more detail later.

[0056] In a variant of the present application, the staple supply mechanism includes a guide for at least one staple chain and has a cover near the ram or die, the cover protruding above the moving gear element, and the cover is applied towards the moving gear element by an elastic means such that the cover helps to arrange the staple chain traveling between the cover and the moving gear element to abut against the moving gear element; the control unit is programmed to: when operating in the unloading mode, in the state of removing staples from the seaming machine, stop the moving gear element at a position where, due to contact with the cover, the moving gear element is lifted and does not exert any thrust on the portion of the staple chain located downstream of the moving gear element. This facilitates the removal of the remaining staples located downstream of the moving gear element from the staple chain without actuating the moving gear element.

[0057] In an embodiment where the moving gear element is hingedly connected to a crank, the removal state will correspond to a midpoint on the active segment of the path assigned to the distal end of the moving gear element.

[0058] Preferably, the detection window associated with the second detection means is meant to cover the position of the staple chain upstream of the moving gear element; the control unit is programmed to: such that when operating in the unloading mode, when it is determined that the staple chain does not extend through the detection window, and after the drive mechanism supplies to ensure a predetermined number of m steps of the staple chain in the feed direction, automatically enter the state of removing staples from the seaming machine.

[0059] The number of steps m is known in advance, and this measure enables better utilization of the number of staples, as will be explained in more detail later.

[0060] As used herein, the article "a / an" refers to one or more (i.e., at least one) of the grammatical objects in the text. For example, "an element" refers to one or more elements.

[0061] Throughout the specification, the term "comprising" or variants such as "having" or "with" will be understood to imply the inclusion of the recited elements, integers or steps or groups of elements, integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other elements, integers or steps or groups of elements, integers or steps. Description of the Drawings

[0062] Figure 1 Schematically shows the main mechanism of a sealing machine according to the present application.

[0063] Figure 2 is a motion diagram of the clamping mechanism, the separating mechanism, and the binding mechanism during the entire cycle of the sealing machine when operating in the production mode, and it also includes the state of the filling equipment that does not belong to the sealing machine. In Figure 2 it, the X-axis represents the cycle time, and the Y-axis represents the fraction of a full cycle.

[0064] Figure 3 is a complete view of the sealing machine and the staple chain that supplies staples to the sealing machine as needed.

[0065] Figure 4 Shows Figure 3 the sealing machine, schematically marking other components that are not shown or are invisible according to a variant of the present application, such as the drive system, the control unit, and their relationships.

[0066] Figure 5 is a motion diagram of the staple supply mechanism during the entire cycle of the sealing machine when operating in production modes P1, P2, and P3. In Figure 5 it, the X-axis represents the cycle time, and the Y-axis represents the fraction of a full cycle.

[0067] Figure 6 is another motion diagram of the staple supply mechanism during the entire cycle of the sealing machine when additionally operating in production mode P4, and it also includes the state of the filling equipment that does not belong to the sealing machine. In Figure 6 it, the X-axis represents the execution time, and the Y-axis represents the fraction of a full cycle.

[0068] Figure 7 (a) of Figure 7 (b) of Figure 7 (c) of are enlarged views aimed at showing the mechanical interaction between the moving gear element of the staple supply mechanism and the staple chain, where Figure 7 (a) of Figure 7 (b) of show the optimal positions for preventing the reverse movement of the staple chain or starting the forward movement of the staple chain according to the specific configuration of the staples, Figure 7 (c) of shows a non-optimal position for preventing the reverse movement of the staple chain or starting the forward movement of the staple chain.

[0069] Figure 8 is an enlarged view of the binding mechanism and the staple supply mechanism, which can correspond to the operation of the sealing machine according to the present application in the loading mode.

[0070] Figure 9It is an enlarged view of the binding mechanism and the staple supply mechanism, which can correspond to the operation of the seaming machine according to the present application in the unloading mode. Specifically, when the seaming machine is in the state of removing staples. Detailed implementation

[0071] The present application is illustrated by the seaming machine 100 in the attached drawings.

[0072] The seaming machine 100 includes a clamping mechanism 101, a separating mechanism 102 and a binding mechanism 10 in a known manner, as Figure 1 schematically shown.

[0073] Figure 1 The clamping mechanism 101 shown by way of example in [reference] is of such a type that it has two pairs of opposite heads 101a, 101b, wherein the two pairs of opposite heads can be driven between a minimum overlap position and a maximum overlap position in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of the sausage product, as Figure 1 shown by the arrow E in [reference]. The same pair of heads is configured such that: in the maximum overlap position, the pair of heads clamps the filled sausage product placed therebetween.

[0074] It should be understood that the present application is also applicable to seaming machines in which the configuration of the heads of the clamping mechanism is different from that shown here, and / or seaming machines in which the driving technique followed by the clamping mechanism 101 is different from that shown here.

[0075] Figure 1 The separating mechanism 102 shown by way of example in [reference] is of such a type that it is constructed to move each pair of heads 101a, 101b in the clamping mechanism 101 between a closest position and a maximum distance position in a direction substantially longitudinal to the filled sausage product, as Figure 1 shown by the arrow S in [reference], so as to create an empty sausage product portion in the sausage product when each pair of heads 101a, 101b is in the maximum overlap position.

[0076] It should be understood that the present application is also applicable to seaming machines in which the configuration of the separating mechanism is different from that shown here or seaming machines in which the driving technique followed by the separating mechanism is different from that shown here.

[0077] Figure 1 The binding mechanism 10 shown by way of example in [reference] is of such a type that it has a first jaw 11 and a second jaw 12, and the first jaw 11 and the second jaw 12 can be driven between a maximum distance position and a closest position, as Figure 1as shown by arrow G therein. The first jaw 11 here is the upper jaw and has a punch 11a, and the second jaw 12 here is the lower jaw and has a die 12a. In the closest position, the binding mechanism 10 ensures sealing by pressing the staple placed between the punch 11a and the die 12a around the empty product portion located between the staple and the punch 11a.

[0078] Normally, the number of dies and punches is even, and sealing can be ensured by pressing two staples placed in parallel between the punch 11a and the die 12a around the empty product portion located between the staple and the punch 11a. Although two parallel staple chains are shown in this sense, for simplicity of description, the following will be described with reference to a single staple chain. Figure 1 As shown for two parallel staple chains, but for simplicity of illustration, the following will be described with reference to a single staple chain.

[0079] The binding mechanism also has a cutting device (not shown), and the cutting device is adapted to laterally cut the empty product portion that has just been sealed by binding. Since the number of dies and punches is even, the cutting device ensures laterally cutting the empty product portion that has just been sealed by pressing at a point between the two staples.

[0080] The sealing machine according to the present application may have other mechanisms known in the art, such as mechanisms for placing straps, labels or other accessories. These mechanisms included in the sealing machine are fully compatible with the mechanisms described here, but since they are not relevant to the present application, they will not be described in more detail.

[0081] When operating the sealing machine 100 in the production mode, the sealing machine repeats the binding cycle. In each cycle, the clamping mechanism 101, the separating mechanism 102 and the binding mechanism 10 of the sealing machine 100 are driven in cooperation.

[0082] In a variant of the present application, the sealing machine is provided with a separate drive system for this purpose, and the drive system can drive the clamping mechanism, the separating mechanism and the binding mechanism in an electronically coordinated manner through the control unit 60.

[0083] In other variants of the present application, one or more of the clamping mechanism, the separating mechanism and the binding mechanism share a drive system.

[0084] In any case, the sealing machine 100 in the first variant is equipped with a first drive system 19 and a second drive system 29. The first drive system 19 and the second drive system 29 can be controlled by the control unit 60. Among them, the first drive system 19 (whether shared with the clamping mechanism and / or the separating mechanism or not) ensures driving of the first jaw 11 and the second jaw 12 of the binding mechanism 10; the second drive system 29 ensures driving of the staple supply mechanism 20. Figure 4 schematically illustrates such a structure.

[0085] The typical cycle of the seaming machine 100 in the production mode P0 can correspond to the Figure 2 motion diagram in, which includes:

[0086] In E1, each pair of heads 101a, 101b in the head driving the clamping mechanism 101 move towards their relevant positions of maximum overlap to clamp the sausage product, while in S0, each pair of heads 101a, 101b are in the closest position;

[0087] In S1, the separating mechanism 102 is driven so that each pair of heads 101a, 101b move towards their relevant positions of maximum distance, while in E2, each pair of heads 101a, 101b are in the maximum overlap position, clamping the sausage product to obtain an empty sausage product portion;

[0088] In G1, the first jaw 11 and the second jaw 12 of the binding mechanism 10 are driven towards their closest relevant positions to press the staple 31 around the empty sausage product portion, thereby sealing it and making a transverse cut, while in E2 and S2, the clamping mechanism 101 and the separating mechanism 102 ensure the empty sausage product portion; and

[0089] In E3, S3 and G2, the clamping mechanism 101, the separating mechanism 102 and the binding mechanism 10 are driven in coordination to respectively return each pair of heads 101a, 101b to their initial positions of minimum overlap, return each pair of heads 101a, 101b to their closest initial positions, and also return the first jaw 11 and the second jaw 12 of the binding mechanism 10 to their initial positions of maximum distance.

[0090] Between one cycle and the subsequent cycle, when the seaming machine 100 is operating in the production mode, it may be necessary to keep the clamping mechanism, the separating mechanism and the binding mechanism in the above initial positions on standby, while continuing to fill new products with materials, especially if they are large sausage products.

[0091] Figure 3 The seaming machine 100 is shown, and in this case, more details of the binding mechanism 10 and the staple supply mechanism 20 are shown. The staples come from a staple cartridge in the form of being wound around a core, and the staple chain 30 is wound around the core.

[0092] The term "staple chain" is used to denote a row of a series of staples that are linked or connected to each other to remain in a row, but when the seaming machine 100 is operating in the production mode, when the first jaw 11 and the second jaw 12 of the binding mechanism 10 are in their closest positions, the first staple 31 can be separated from the remaining staples when being pressed around the sealed empty sausage product portion.

[0093] In the illustrated stapling machine 100, a staple supply mechanism 20 is attached to a second jaw 12 (lower jaw) of a binding mechanism 10 and has a moving gear element 21 which, when operating in production mode, is configured to be drivable in one cycle of the stapling machine to engage with a staple chain 30 and ensure a step of the staple chain 30 in a feed direction D, so as to place a first staple 31 from the staple chain 30 between a pressure head 11a and a die 12a for pressing.

[0094] In the context of the present application, being drivable in a cycle of the stapling machine when operating in production mode does not exclude being drivable also when a cycle of the stapling machine operating in production mode is not being executed. For example, it is not excluded that the moving gear element 21 is driven during a period between two consecutive cycles of the stapling machine 100 operating in production mode, or when the stapling machine 100 performs other types of operations (such as loading, unloading or pairing operations), which will be described later.

[0095] In the illustrated example, the staple supply mechanism 20 (for details see Figure 1 ) is of a type that includes a slider-crank mechanism (conversion mechanism 3; or reverse slider-crank mechanism third conversion mechanism), where a crank 22 is hingedly connected and the moving gear element 21 performs the function of a connecting rod, and the movement of the moving gear element 21 is guided by inserting a fixed pivot 23 into a straight slider 24 (provided on the same moving gear element 21 for this purpose). For each full rotation of the crank 22 in the same rotational direction, the forward and backward movement of the distal end 21a of the moving gear element 21 is transmitted along a path that has a forward active section and a reverse return section, the forward active section engages with the staple chain 30 and mechanically conveys the staple chain 30, and the reverse return section places it outside the reach of the staple chain.

[0096] With reference to the drawings, a rotation of the crank 22 in the counterclockwise direction transmits motion to the moving gear element 21, which can engage with the staple chain in the active section of its path and convey the staple chain in the forward direction D; a rotation of the crank 22 in the clockwise direction transmits motion to the moving gear element 21, which can engage with the staple chain in the active section of its path and convey the staple chain in the reverse direction I, which will be used to operate the stapling machine in pairing mode, as will be described later.

[0097] The crank 22 can be rotationally driven by being directly or indirectly coupled to a driven shaft (such as the output shaft of an electric motor set). In the illustrated case, the rotational motion is transmitted through a chain, belt or the like 25 (in Figure 7in the manner visible in (c) of ) from the driven wheel 27 to the crank 22, and specifically, the driven wheel 27 is rotatably mounted about an axis Ex which coincides with the axis about which the first jaw 11 and the second jaw 12 of the binding mechanism 10 are also hinged, and the first jaw 11 and the second jaw 12 of the binding mechanism 10 are hinged to move between their maximum distance and their closest relative positions.

[0098] Although the supply mechanism 20 is implemented by way of this specific slider-crank mechanism (with a third inversion mechanism) as an example, the present application is also applicable to sealing machines in which the drive technique for moving the moving gear element 21 of the staple supply mechanism 20 is different from that shown here, provided that it is capable of equivalently transmitting the movement in the forward direction D or the reverse direction I of the staple chain 30 (meshing with the staple chain) to the distal end 21a of the moving gear element 21 for this purpose, and also the reverse movement in the direction opposite to the selected direction (not meshing with the staple chain 30).

[0099] The exemplary sealing machine 100 is equipped with a detection device 35 (see Figure 7 in (c) of and Figure 8 ) to determine whether the staple chain 30 extends through the detection window covering the die 12a.

[0100] The exemplary sealing machine 100 is also equipped with a programmable control unit 60, which is programmed to operate the sealing machine 100 in at least one of the following modes, preferably in several of the following modes, and more preferably in all of the following modes.

[0101] Mode i)

[0102] This mode includes: when operating in the production mode, performing a plurality of cycles of the sealing machine through a work program which not only drives the clamping mechanism 101, the separating mechanism 102 and the binding mechanism 10 in a manner similar to the cycles in the production mode P0 in Figure 2 , but also drives the staple supply mechanism 20 in this case, to rotate the crank 22 in a specific manner.

[0103] In a variant, the working cycle in the production mode P1 can correspond to Figure 4 the movement diagram in, where it should be noted that the supply mechanism 20 (actually the crank 22) is driven according to a non-constant drive curve or pattern throughout the cycle, for example, the adjustment for placing the moving gear element 21 in the optimal position is highlighted in C1 to prevent the staple chain 30 from moving in the reverse direction when the first staple 31 is pressed and separated from the staple chain 30.

[0104] When operating in production mode P1, this adjustment in C1 is particularly applicable to the seaming machine 100 as shown, in which the rotary motion is transmitted from the driven wheel 27 rotatably mounted about the axis Ex to the crank 22 by means of a belt or the like 25 ( Figure 7 shown in (c) of). Around the axis Ex, a second jaw 12 (the lower jaw to which the supply mechanism 20 is attached) is also articulated. This transmission scheme causes the second jaw 12 to rotate 0.1 to 0.15 revolutions in G1, causing the crank 22 to rotate slightly clockwise. The program counteracts this slight clockwise rotation by appropriately driving the nail supply mechanism 20 to position the moving gear element 21 in the optimal position (angle-locked position) to prevent the reverse movement of the nail chain 30. Appropriate driving may include controlling the motor set 29 to rotate the crank 22 counterclockwise and position it at an angular position beyond the angle-locked position, so that when the second jaw 12 rotates in G1, the clockwise rotation of the crank 22 caused by the tension transmitted by the belt 25 or similar components is offset.

[0105] This adjustment in C1 also contributes to better subsequent conveyance because it is more efficient and does not include the empty part (not conveyed) of the forward movement of the nail chain 30.

[0106] To prevent the reverse movement of the nail chain, Figure 7 of (b) and Figure 7 of (c) show the optimal and non-optimal angular positions of the crank 22, respectively. In the first case, the distal end 21a of the moving gear element 21 meshes with the nail chain 30, preventing its reverse movement. In the second case, the distal end 21a of the moving gear element 21 does not mesh with the nail chain 30, unable to prevent its reverse movement.

[0107] Mode ii)

[0108] This mode includes: when operating in production mode, performing multiple cycles of the seaming machine through a working program that not only drives the clamping mechanism 101, the separating mechanism 102, and the binding mechanism 10 in a manner similar to the cycles in production mode P0 in Figure 2 , but also, in this case, drives the nail supply mechanism 20 to rotate the crank 22 during the period between consecutive cycles in production mode.

[0109] In a variant, this type of operation may correspond to Figure 6 's motion diagram, which is similar to production mode P1. However, Figure 6The work under the production mode P4 shown can be applicable to the production of larger sized filled sausage products and / or sausage products that require a longer filling time, during which the sealing machine of the prior art is in a standby state, does not perform a production cycle, and the clamping mechanism 101, the separating mechanism 102, and the stapling mechanism 10 and their associated staple supply mechanism are in a standby state.

[0110] When working in the production mode P4, in C2, by using the filling time between continuous production cycles, the driving member of the staple supply mechanism 20 is separated from the clamping mechanism 101, the separating mechanism 102, and the staple mechanism 10 to continue the conveyance of the staple chain. In Figure 6 the kinematic diagram, this period between continuous cycles is represented by a grey background.

[0111] This driving of the supply mechanism 20 between production mode cycles contributes to better conveyance because it is slower and exerts less pressure on the staple chain 30.

[0112] Mode iii)

[0113] Another operation under the production mode P2 can correspond to the kinematic diagram superimposed with a dashed line in Figure 5 , in which case, it is not necessary to adjust C1 because it corresponds to a variant of the sealing machine in which the crank 22 is directly driven, and thus it is not necessary to counteract the tension that the belt drive or the like may exert on the crank 22.

[0114] The operation under the production mode P2 illustrates that a machine such as a sealing machine similar to the present application can optimize the forward movement of the staple chain according to the characteristics of the staples. In Figure 5 shown together, under the production modes P1 and P2, the supply mechanism stops at 0.6 turns and 0.7 turns of the driving cycle of the supply mechanism 20 respectively, which reflects the different positions of the supply mechanism in one cycle of rotation.

[0115] To illustrate this ability and how it translates into the angular locking position of the moving gear element 21 and thus into the angular locking position of its distal end 21a, Figure 7 (a) and (b) of Figure 7 show the optimal angular locking positions of the crank 22 to prevent the reverse movement of the respective staple chains 30' and 30, where the staples in the staple chain 30 in (b) of

[0116] The mode iii) contemplated by the present application is a mode in which the seaming machine is programmed to work different drive programs for the staple supply mechanism 20 according to the characteristics of the staples in the staple chain, even if the drives of the remaining parts in the clamping mechanism, the separating mechanism and the binding mechanism remain unchanged (i.e., the same). Alternatively, it is contemplated that the operator can input a preferred angular locking position as an operating parameter according to an empirical table or according to predetermined values that the seaming machine can provide to the operator, for selection according to the characteristics of the staples in the staple chain.

[0117] Figure 5 The motion diagram in also illustrates another effect obtained: by being able to arrange the moving gear element 21 in an optimal position relative to the staple chain 30, its reverse movement is prevented. Specifically, in production mode P2, the crank 22 is arranged in an angular locking position which represents a more forward position in a full cycle relative to, for example, the position in production mode P1, which means that the crank 22 has more time to rotate in the direction ensuring the forward movement of the staple chain, and thus less pressure is exerted on the staple chain. In Figure 5 this can be identified by comparing the time window t1 and the time window t2 (where t2 > t1), during the time window t1, the staple supply mechanism is driven in production mode P1 to produce the forward movement of the staple chain; during the time window t2, the staple supply mechanism is driven in production mode P2 to produce the forward movement of the staple chain.

[0118] Figure 5 The same motion diagram in also illustrates other possible production modes, such as production mode P3, which includes continuing to rotate the crank 22 and continuing to move the moving gear element 21 to ensure that the step of the staple chain is consistent with E1, in other words, starting a new cycle under the drive of the head of the clamping mechanism.

[0119] This customized or staple-chain-characteristic-based drive of the supply mechanism 20 contributes to better conveyance because it is more efficient, sometimes slower, without exerting too much pressure on the staple chain 30.

[0120] Mode iv)

[0121] This mode includes: making the seaming machine work in the loading mode through a working program, which drives the supply mechanism 20 and ensures more than one continuous step of the staple chain in the feed direction D, during which the first jaw 11 and the second jaw 12 of the binding mechanism 10 are not in the closest position.

[0122] As Figure 8As shown, variant A1 of the loading mode may include driving the binding mechanism 20 to rotate the crank 22 several turns, keeping the first jaw 11 and the second jaw 12 of the binding mechanism 20 at their maximum distance position. It is contemplated that the clamping mechanism 101 and the separating mechanism 102 also do not need to be driven, and preferably, the latter is at the maximum distance position of each pair of heads 101a and 101b.

[0123] To improve the loading mode, the exemplary sealing machine 100 utilizes the detection device 35 to determine whether the staple chain 30 extends through the associated detection window, and the control unit 60 is programmed to operate the sealing machine in the loading mode A1 when it is known that the staple chain 30 extends through the detection window according to the signal generated by the detection device 35.

[0124] The detection window may cover the die 12a, and when a staple is detected above the die 12a, the program may be instructed to automatically stop the loading mode A1.

[0125] This driving of the supply mechanism 20 provides greater safety for the operator and facilitates the replacement operation of the staple cartridge.

[0126] Mode v)

[0127] This mode includes operating the sealing machine in the unloading mode A2 through a work program, which includes stopping the supply mechanism 20 by placing the moving gear element 21 in the raised position (i.e., the middle of its active section), as Figure 9 shown, the first jaw 11 and the second jaw 12 of the binding mechanism 20 are in a position other than their closest position, preferably their maximum distance position, and the assembly is in a state of removing staples.

[0128] Normally, the supply mechanism 20 of the exemplary sealing machine 100 includes a guide 52 for the staple chain 30, and it has a cover 53 near the die 12a. The cover 53 projects above the moving gear element 21, and the cover 53 is applied towards the moving gear element 21 by an elastic device so that the cover 53 helps to arrange the staple chain 30 traveling between the cover 53 and the moving gear element 21 to abut against the gear element.

[0129] As Figure 9 shown, the moving gear element 21 is arranged in a position in the state of removing staples such that the moving gear element 21 is raised and does not exert any thrust on the portion of the staple chain 30 downstream of the moving gear element 21 due to contact with the cover 53, so that the unusable remaining staples can be easily removed from the staple chain.

[0130] To improve the unloading mode, an exemplary sealing machine 100 is equipped with additional detection means 45 to determine whether the staple chain 30 extends through an associated detection window that covers the position of the staple chain upstream of the moving gear element 21; the control unit 60 is programmed to: when it is known from the signal generated by the detection means 45 that the staple chain 30 does not extend through the detection window, cause the sealing machine to operate automatically in the unloading mode A2 and, after driving the staple supply mechanism 20, produce a predetermined number m of positive steps of the staple chain 30 in the production mode, that is, by co-driving the clamping mechanism, the separating mechanism and the binding mechanism, or without driving the clamping mechanism, the separating mechanism and the binding mechanism as part of the unloading mode, the first jaw 11 and the second jaw 12 of the binding mechanism 20 are preferably in their maximum distance position.

[0131] The number of steps m is a function of the number of staples in the staple chain 30 between the detection window of the detection means 45 and the moving gear element 21.

[0132] This driving of the supply mechanism 20 provides greater safety for the operator and facilitates the operation of replacing the staple cartridge.

[0133] Mode vi)

[0134] This mode includes: causing the sealing machine to operate in the pairing mode A3 by a working program that includes driving the supply mechanism 20 and ensuring more than one continuous step of the staple chain 30 in the direction I opposite to the feed direction D, during which the first jaw 11 and the second jaw 12 of the binding mechanism 10 are not in the closest position.

[0135] The pairing mode is meaningful when the sealing machine is a duplex sealing machine, which is equipped with two gear elements that move synchronously, for example, two gear elements that move synchronously by the same crank, each gear element being intended to engage with a different staple chain, and the different staple chains are usually guided flatly and come from different cartridges. This type of sealing machine ensures that two staples are applied to produce two empty parts of the seal, and the empty parts will be transversely cut at a point between the seals to separate the finished sausage product from the next sausage product, which will be completed in the next cycle of the sealing machine in the production mode.

[0136] It is possible that the staple chain runs out before another staple chain.

[0137] The pairing mode A3 can be performed on the non-exhausted staple chain to ensure n steps of the non-exhausted staple chain in the direction I and then immediately perform the loading mode A1, which will ensure the same number n of continuous steps of the two staple chains in the feed direction D until the first staple from the new staple chain and the first staple from the non-exhausted staple chain are placed on the die 12a simultaneously.

[0138] The number of steps n is a function of the number of nails in the nail chain 30 between the moving gear element 21 and the die 12a.

[0139] The drive of such a supply mechanism 20 provides greater safety for the operator and enables better utilization of the nails from the nail chain.

Claims

1. A sealing machine (100) for sealing sausage products, the sealing machine (100) comprising a clamping mechanism (101), a separating mechanism (102) and a binding mechanism (10), in, When operating in a production mode (P1 to P4), at least the stapling mechanism is independently drivable during a cycle of the sealing machine, but in coordination with the clamping mechanism and the separating mechanism, in which the clamping mechanism, the separating mechanism and the stapling mechanism are each in the same position at the beginning and end of the cycle, and The sealing machine comprises a nail supply mechanism (20) for supplying nails to the binding mechanism, and the nail supply mechanism is a nail supply mechanism (20) that can be driven independently of the clamping mechanism, the separating mechanism and the binding mechanism.

2. The sealing machine (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein: The binding mechanism (10) comprises a first clamping jaw (11) with a pressure head (11a) and a second clamping jaw (12) with a pressing die (12a), wherein, when operating in the production mode (P1 to P4), the first clamping jaw and the second clamping jaw can be driven from a maximum distance position to a closest position during the cycle of the sealing machine, can ensure sealing by pressing at least one nail placed between the pressure head and the pressing die, and can be driven again to the maximum distance position, wherein the nail supply mechanism (20) attached to one of the first clamping jaw (11) and the second clamping jaw (12) of the binding mechanism (10) has at least one moving gear element (21), the moving gear element (21) being configured to be driven in a manner that is meshed with a corresponding nail chain (30), and to ensure the stepping of the nail chain in a feeding direction (D) by conveying, thereby placing the nails (31) in the nail chain between the pressing head and the pressing die for pressing, and The sealing machine is equipped with a programmable control unit (60) which is programmed to drive the moving gear element (21) of the nail supply mechanism (20) in one or more of the following ways: a) when operating in said production mode (P1, P2, P3, P4), different drive speeds are always followed in the same cycle of said sealing machine, b) Different production modes (P1, P2, P3, P4) follow different drive modes or drive schemes, c) when operating in said production mode (P4), conveying the nail chain in said feed direction (D) during the time that elapses between two consecutive cycles of said sealing machine, d) conveying the nail chain when the sealing machine is working in the production mode without performing a cycle.

3. The sealing machine (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein: The control unit (60) is programmed to drive the moving gear element (21) according to a), wherein the mobile gear element (21) performing a function similar to that of a connecting rod is connected to a crank (22) in an articulated manner and the movement of the mobile gear element is guided by inserting a fulcrum (23) into a straight slider (24) so ​​that for each full rotation of the crank (22) in the same rotation direction, a reciprocating motion is transmitted to the distal end (21a) of the mobile gear element (21) intended to engage with a nail chain, imparting a path having an active segment and a return segment, wherein the active segment conveys the nail chain when engaged with the nail chain, ensuring the stepping of the nail chain, and the return segment is empty and does not engage with the nail chain, The different driving modes or driving schemes include stopping the crank (22) in an angular locking position so that the distal end (21a) of the moving gear element (21) engages with the nail chain, the angular locking position being the final position of the return section and the starting position of the movable part, and The angle locking position is based on specific parameters of working in the production mode.

4. The sealing machine (100) according to claim 3, wherein: The value of the angular lock position can be: is provided to the control unit (60) and is associated with a specific operation in the production mode, in addition or alternatively, The control unit includes a plurality of programs for performing different operations at predetermined values ​​for the angular locking position in the production mode, and an operator can select a program to be performed.

5. The sealing machine (100) according to claim 2, wherein: The control unit (60) is programmed to drive the moving gear element (21) according to b), wherein different tasks in the production mode can be selected by the operator of the sealing machine, and Therein, each different working order of the sealing machine in the production mode (P1, P2, P3) causes the moving gear element (21) to be driven differently in a cycle associated with the production mode.

6. The sealing machine (100) according to claim 2, wherein: The control unit (60) is programmed to drive the moving gear element (21) according to c), and Therein, the control unit is specifically programmed to continue driving the mobile gear element (21) when operating in the production mode (P4) to ensure that the stepping of the nail chain (30) is completed within the time elapsed between two consecutive cycles of the sealing machine.

7. The sealing machine (100) according to claim 2, wherein: The control unit (60) is programmed to drive the moving gear element (21) according to d), and Wherein, the control unit includes: when working in loading mode (A1), commanding driving the movable gear element (21) to engage with the nail chain (30) and ensure that more than one continuous step of the nail chain in the feeding direction (D) is completed through conveying, and during this period, the first clamping jaw (11) and the second clamping jaw (12) of the binding mechanism (10) are not in the closest position.

8. The sealing machine (100) according to claim 2, wherein: The control unit (60) is programmed to drive the moving gear element (21) according to d), and Wherein, the control unit (60) includes: when working in the pairing mode (A3), commanding the moving gear element (21) to engage with the nail chain (30) and ensure that the nail chain is completed through conveying for more than one continuous step in the direction (I) opposite to the feeding direction (D), and during this period, the first clamping jaw (11) and the second clamping jaw (12) of the binding mechanism (10) are not in the closest position.

9. The sealing machine (100) according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein: The sealing machine is equipped with at least one first transmission system (19) and one second transmission system (29), the first transmission system (19) and the second transmission system (29) being electronically controllable by the control unit (60), and The first transmission system (19) ensures the driving of the first clamping jaw (11) and the second clamping jaw (12) of the binding mechanism (10), and the second transmission system (29) ensures the driving of the moving gear element (21) of the nail supply mechanism (20).

10. The sealing machine (100) according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein: The sealing machine is equipped with a common transmission system (70), and the binding mechanism (10) and the nail supply mechanism (20) are connected to the transmission system through a power chain (71) to ensure the coordinated driving of the first clamping jaw (11) and the second clamping jaw (12) and the moving gear element (21); the power chain (71) includes a clutch device (72), which enables the binding mechanism (10) to be mechanically separated from the common transmission system (70) and cut off the power chain, so that during the operation of the sealing machine in at least one of the production mode (P1 to P4), loading mode (A1), unloading mode (A2) or pairing mode (A3), the binding mechanism (10) remains stationary and the common transmission system (70) can continue to drive the moving gear element (21) of the nail supply mechanism (20), and The common transmission system (70) and the clutch device (72) are electronically controlled by the control unit (60).

11. The sealing machine (100) according to any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein: The sealing machine has a detection device (35, 45) for determining whether the nail chain (30) extends through one or more associated detection windows, and Wherein, the control unit (60) is programmed to make the sealing machine operate at least in loading mode (A1) or unloading mode (A2), wherein making the sealing machine operate at least in loading mode (A1) or unloading mode (A2) includes, based on the signal generated by the detection device (35, 45), when judging whether the nail chain (30) extends through the detection window, commanding the driving of the moving gear element (21) when the first clamping jaw (11) and the second clamping jaw (12) of the binding mechanism (10) are not in the closest position to engage with the nail chain (30) and ensure the completion of more than one continuous step of the nail chain in the feeding direction (D).

12. The sealing machine (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein: A detection window is associated with the first detection device (35) and covers one of the pressing head (11a) and the pressing die (12a), and The control unit (60) is programmed to stop driving the moving gear element (21) when it is determined that the nail chain (30) extends through the detection window during operation of the sealing machine in the loading mode (A1).

13. The sealing machine (100) according to any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein: The sealing machine has a detection device (35, 45), which covers one of the pressing head (11a) and the pressing die (12a), and Wherein, the control unit (60) is programmed to operate the sealing machine in at least one production mode (P1, P2, P3, P4), and operating the sealing machine in at least one of the production modes (P1, P2, P3, P4) includes stopping the moving gear element (21) if it is determined that the nail chain (30) does not extend through the detection window after driving the moving gear element to ensure the stepping of the nail chain in the feeding direction (D) through conveying.

14. The sealing machine (100) according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein: n is the number of consecutive steps completed by the nail chain (30) in the feeding direction (D) under the condition of driving the moving gear element (21) during operation in the loading mode (A1), and the control unit (60) is programmed to first make the sealing machine work in the pairing mode (A3), and making the sealing machine work in the pairing mode (A3) includes driving the moving gear element (21) to ensure n consecutive steps of the nail chain in the opposite direction (I).

15. The sealing machine (100) according to any one of claims 2 to 14, wherein: The nail supply mechanism (20) comprises a guide (22) for at least one nail chain (30), and the nail supply mechanism (20) has a cover (23) near the pressure head (11a) or the pressure die (21a), the cover (23) protruding above the moving gear element (21), and the cover (23) is applied toward the moving gear element (21) by elastic means (24) so ​​that the cover helps to arrange the nail chain (30) running between the cover (23) and the moving gear element (21) to abut against the moving gear element (21), and The control unit (60) is programmed to, when operating in the unloading mode (A2), stop the moving gear element (21) at a position where the moving gear element (21) is lifted due to contact with the cover (23) without applying any thrust to the portion of the nail chain (30) located downstream of the moving gear element (21) when the nail is removed from the sealing machine.

16. The sealing machine (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein: The detection window associated with the second detection means (45) covers the position of the nail chain (3) upstream of the mobile gear element (21), and The control unit (60) is programmed so that: When operating in the unloading mode (A2), when it is determined that the nail chain (30) does not extend through the detection window, and after driving the supply mechanism (20) to ensure that the nail chain (30) steps a predetermined number m in the feeding direction (D), it is automatically in a state of removing the nail from the sealing machine.

17. A sausage production process using the sealing machine according to any one of claims 2 to 16, wherein: The programmable control unit (60) is programmed to: drive the nail supply mechanism (20) and move the moving gear element (21) when the sealing machine is operating in the production mode without executing a cycle, the process including continuing to drive the moving gear element (21) of the supply mechanism (20) when operating in the production mode (P4) to ensure that the nail chain (30) steps in the feeding direction (D) during the standby time between the end of one cycle of the sealing machine and the beginning of the next cycle, thereby placing the nails (31) in the nail chain between the pressing head (11a) and the pressing die (12a) of the binding mechanism (10), and during the standby time, the material is stuffed into the casing of the sausage product to be sealed in the next cycle of the sealing machine.

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