A bale comprising a packaging sleeve and an overpack

Abstract

The invention relates to a bale (14) comprising packaging sleeves (10) and an outer packaging (15), comprising: a plurality of packaging sleeves (10) composed of a composite material; and an outer packaging (15) surrounding the packaging sleeves (10); wherein each packaging sleeve (10) has a front side (12) and a rear side (13); the front side (12) and the rear side (13) of each packaging sleeve (10) are separated from one another by a folding edge (F) along which the packaging sleeve (10) is folded flat; each packaging sleeve (10) has two openings arranged on opposite sides of the packaging sleeve (10); and each packaging sleeve (10) has a longitudinal seam (11) which connects two edges of the composite material to form a circumferential packaging sleeve (10). In order to be able to save space, save costs and reliably transport the packaging sleeves (10), according to the invention the outer packaging (15) is made of a plastic material film (17).

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application filed on November 29, 2018, with application number 201880083271.4 and invention title "Bundled Components Including Packaging Sleeves and Outer Packaging". Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to a bundle comprising packaging sleeves and an outer packaging, the bundle including a plurality of packaging sleeves made of composite material and an outer packaging surrounding the packaging sleeves, wherein each packaging sleeve has a front side and a rear side, wherein the front side and the rear side of each packaging sleeve are separated from each other by a folded edge, the packaging sleeve being folded flat along the folded edge, wherein each packaging sleeve has two openings arranged on opposite sides of the packaging sleeve, and each packaging sleeve has a longitudinal seam connecting two edges of the composite material to form a circumferential packaging sleeve. Background Technology

[0003] Packaging can be manufactured in various ways and made from a wide variety of materials. The extensive possibilities of packaging manufacturing involve creating blanks from packaging materials, first forming packaging sleeves from the blanks through folding and attaching steps, and finally completing the package. This manufacturing method has the particular advantage that the blanks and packaging sleeves are very flat and can therefore be stacked in a space-saving manner. In this way, the blanks or packaging sleeves can be manufactured in locations different from where the folding and filling of the packaging sleeves take place. As materials, composite materials are often used, such as composites formed from multiple thin layers of paper, cardboard, plastic materials, or metals (especially aluminum). This type of packaging is widely used, particularly in the food industry, and is preferred for packaging foods containing at least one liquid component.

[0004] The first manufacturing step typically involves forming a circumferential packaging sleeve from a blank by folding and welding or bonding seams. The packaging sleeves are usually stacked flat and packaged to bring them to a location for filling packaging sleeves. Bundles with different outer packaging are known from the prior art for this purpose.

[0005] In the first known bundle ( Figure 2A Rigid corrugated cardboard boxes are used as outer packaging. This type of packaging provides good mechanical protection for the packaging sleeves stored inside. However, a disadvantage of this type of packaging is its very low elasticity, which prevents bundled items from being compressed together and therefore hinders space-saving transportation. Additionally, rigid outer packaging has the disadvantage of requiring disassembly after removing the packaging sleeves to minimize space usage. Furthermore, disassembling rigid cardboard outer packaging generates dust, which is highly undesirable in areas with high hygiene requirements (e.g., in the environment of food filling machines).

[0006] Conversely, in another known bundle ( Figure 2B The outer packaging is made of paper, so the packaging sleeves are covered inside the paper. Therefore, this type of outer packaging can be simply folded together and discarded after removing the packaging sleeves. However, a disadvantage of this type of outer packaging is the low elasticity and tear resistance of the paper. Because the restoring force can cause the paper to tear, this bundle cannot accommodate any packaging sleeves that are compressed together in a space-saving manner.

[0007] Furthermore, using known outer packaging made of paper or corrugated cardboard, it is virtually impossible to reduce the gas exchange between the volume enclosed within the outer packaging and the environment to a level desired or necessary from a microbiological perspective. Summary of the Invention

[0008] In this context, the object of the present invention is to construct and develop bundled packages as described in the background art and explained in more detail above, while preventing the aforementioned disadvantages in a way that saves space, reduces costs, and reliably transports the packaging sleeves.

[0009] This objective is achieved using the bundled components of the preamble of claim 1, wherein the outer packaging is made of a plastic film.

[0010] The bundle according to the invention is formed from a package sleeve and an outer packaging assembly. The bundle primarily comprises a plurality of package sleeves formed of a composite material. Specifically, the package sleeves may comprise a combination of multiple thin layers of paper, cardboard, plastic material, or metal (particularly aluminum). Preferably, the package sleeves are integral. The bundle also includes an outer packaging surrounding the package sleeves. The outer packaging may partially or completely surround the package sleeves and serves to hold the package sleeves together. Each package sleeve has a front side and a rear side. Preferably, the front and rear sides are rectangular and congruent. The front and rear sides of each package sleeve are separated from each other by a folded edge. Each package sleeve is folded along the folded edge. For example, the folded edge can be created by folding along a material weakening portion (e.g., an embossed crease line) produced before folding. Each package sleeve also has two openings arranged on opposite sides of the package sleeve. That is, the package sleeve is open at both sides. For example, the openings can be arranged in the area of ​​the bottom surface and preferably in the area of ​​the gable wall surface intended for a fluid-impermeable package produced by the packaging sleeve. Due to the two opposing openings, the packaging sleeve can be folded in a particularly simple manner to form a tube or sleeve shape. Each packaging sleeve ultimately has a longitudinal seam that connects the two edges of the composite material to form a circumferential packaging sleeve. Because of the longitudinal seam, a circumferentially closed packaging sleeve can be made from a flat (primarily rectangular) blank.

[0011] For example, longitudinal seams can be formed by bonding and / or welding. Due to the longitudinal seams, this type of packaging sleeve is also known as a longitudinally seam-sealed packaging sleeve.

[0012] According to the present invention, an outer packaging made of a plastic material film is provided. The plastic material film is characterized by low cost, high elasticity, and strong tear resistance. Compared to rigid outer packaging (e.g., boxes made of corrugated cardboard), bundles can be compressed and transported in a space-saving manner. Compared to outer packaging with lower tear resistance (e.g., paper outer packaging), compressed packaging sleeves can be accommodated within the outer packaging without tearing the plastic material film. The plastic material film can be made, for example, of PE (polyethylene). Preferably, the plastic material film is antistatic, as this is advantageous in the event of film expansion and when stacking / unstacking multiple bundles of finished products. Additionally, preferably, the plastic material film can be printed or bonded. The plastic material film should also be heat-resistant where possible.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the bundled package, the packaging sleeves are arranged such that at least 4.0 packaging sleeves, specifically at least 4.5 packaging sleeves, at least 5.0 packaging sleeves, at least 5.5 packaging sleeves, at least 6.0 packaging sleeves, at least 6.5 packaging sleeves, at least 6.75 packaging sleeves, at least 7.0 packaging sleeves, at least 7.25 packaging sleeves, or at least 7.5 packaging sleeves per centimeter are arranged per centimeter along the stacking direction. The stacking direction is intended to be understood as the direction extending through all the stacked packaging sleeves; specifically, the stacking direction can extend substantially perpendicular to the front and rear sides of the packaging sleeves. High stacking density can be achieved due to the elasticity and high tear resistance of the plastic film. This can be achieved, for example, by pushing and compressing the packaging sleeves together along the stacking direction and wrapping them in this state with a pre-tensioned film. Due to the pre-tensioning of the film, it pulls itself together after the packaging sleeves are wrapped, thus preventing the packaging sleeves from being squeezed out again from the still open ends of the film by restoring force. A lower limit for the packing density can be combined with an upper limit, such as 8 packaging sleeves per centimeter, 9 packaging sleeves per centimeter, or 10 packaging sleeves per centimeter. Higher packing densities may lead to damage to the packaging sleeves.

[0014] According to another embodiment of the bundled package, the packaging sleeves are arranged in the outer packaging such that the longitudinal seams of all the packaging sleeves extend parallel to each other. That is, all the packaging sleeves should be placed "upright" in the outer packaging, and none of the packaging sleeves should be placed laterally in the outer packaging (and vice versa: all packaging sleeves should be placed "laterally" and none should be placed "upright"). Although this defined and identical arrangement of the packaging sleeves in the bundle may not be the most space-efficient, it does facilitate further processing of the packaging sleeves in the filling machine because it eliminates the need for sorting or orientation.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the bundled package, the packaging sleeves are arranged in the outer packaging such that the longitudinal seams of all the packaging sleeves are arranged in a common plane extending along the stacking direction. That is, the longitudinal seams should not be offset from each other in different planes, but should be in the same plane. Therefore, when viewed along the stacking direction, the packaging sleeves should be arranged precisely one after another. This reduces the decrease in bulk density due to the increased thickness in the longitudinal seam area, but significantly facilitates further processing of the packaging sleeves in the filling machine because all the packaging sleeves can be introduced into the filling machine one after another at the same location.

[0016] A stack arranged precisely one after another can be understood as a lateral offset of up to 1.5 mm in both directions.

[0017] According to another embodiment of the bundled package, the packaging sleeves are arranged in the outer packaging such that the front sides of all packaging sleeves face the same direction and the rear sides of all packaging sleeves face the same direction. That is, two adjacent packaging sleeves always contact each other with different sides (front / rear), rather than with the same sides (front / front, or rear / rear). This defined and orderly orientation of the packaging sleeves also facilitates further processing in the filling machine, as the packaging sleeves can be stacked in the filling machine's storage table without sorting or orientation.

[0018] According to the bundled implementation, the packaging sleeves are configured to be folded flat along both folded edges at an angle of approximately 180°. Folding at approximately 180° allows the packaging sleeves to be particularly flat. This allows the packaging sleeves to be stacked space-savingly, which, for example, facilitates transportation. In this way, the packaging sleeves can be produced at different locations relative to the filling and production of the package. Preferably, the packaging sleeves are folded outwards along both folded edges, so that the folded edges should face outwards (rather than inwards). Therefore, the packaging sleeves can be stacked particularly close to each other.

[0019] According to another embodiment of the bundled components, the two folded edges are arranged to extend parallel to each other. Preferably, the two folded edges are linear and extend parallel to each other. The advantage of the parallel arrangement is that the folded edges can be produced in a particularly simple way, for example, by means of linear crease lines formed by embossing in the composite material.

[0020] In another embodiment of the bundled package, the packaging sleeve is configured to fold only along two folding edges. No other folds are provided on the packaging sleeve besides these two folding edges, resulting in a particularly flat sleeve that can be stacked in a space-saving manner. Except for the area with the longitudinal seam, the packaging sleeve has a “double” thickness in this type of folding: both the front and rear sides of the packaging sleeve are formed of (preferably the same) multi-layered composite material, arranged one after another along the stacking direction.

[0021] According to another embodiment of the bundled package, the packaging sleeve is configured with a bottom surface and a gable wall, which are arranged on opposite sides of two sides, a front, and a back. Preferably, the bottom surface and the gable wall each have two rectangular faces and six triangular faces. Preferably, in upright packaging, the gable wall—arranged above the two sides, a front, and a back—and the bottom surface is arranged below the two sides, a front, and a back. The designation of the faces is based on the faces of the package intended to be made from the packaging sleeve. Preferably, the rectangular and triangular faces are also surrounded or adjacent to fold lines. The rectangular faces are used to fold the bottom and gable walls of the package. The triangular faces are used to fold excess composite material into a protruding “flange,” which is then placed on the package.

[0022] According to another embodiment of the bundled package, the strength of the composite material of the packaging sleeve is set at 150 g / m². 2 Up to 500 g / m 2 Within the range, especially at 200 g / m 2 Up to 350 g / m 2 Within a certain range. The strength of a composite material affects its thickness, and therefore also the number of stackable packaging sleeves per unit length. It has been found that strength within a given range is a good trade-off between low cost, light weight, and dense stackability (for the thinnest possible composite material) and sufficient mechanical properties (for the thickest possible composite material).

[0023] In another embodiment of the bundled package, the thickness of the composite material of the packaging sleeve is set in the range of 0.25 mm to 0.75 mm, particularly in the range of 0.3 mm to 0.6 mm. It has been found that thicknesses within a given range represent a good trade-off between low cost, light weight, and dense stackability (for the thinnest possible composite material) and sufficient mechanical properties (for the thickest possible composite material).

[0024] According to another embodiment of the bundled package, the composite material is configured to have at least one layer of paper, cardboard, or cardboard that covers the edge of the longitudinal seam extending within the packaging sleeve. The covering of the paper, cardboard, or cardboard layer is intended to prevent any contact between the contents of the package and this layer. On the one hand, this prevents fluids from escaping through the non-fluid-sealed paper, cardboard, or cardboard layer; on the other hand, it prevents the contents of the package from being contaminated by the paper, cardboard, or cardboard layer (e.g., pulp fibers).

[0025] Advantageously, the longitudinal seam can be covered by a layer of paper, cardboard, or cardboard covered with a sealing strip, and / or by placing the composite material in the area of ​​the longitudinal seam. One possibility for covering is to fix a separate sealing strip. For example, the sealing strip can be made of the same material as the innermost layer of the composite material and is bonded or welded to that layer. Another possibility for covering involves turning or folding the composite material in the area of ​​the longitudinal seam. In this way, all layers no longer appear at the edge of the longitudinal seam extending within the packaging sleeve, but only the innermost layer of the composite material. However, in any case, the innermost layer must be made of a material suitable for contact with the contents of the packaging.

[0026] According to another embodiment of the bundled components, the composite material is configured to be peeled off in the region of the longitudinal seam. "Peeled" composite material is intended to be understood as a composite material having fewer layers in the peeled area than in the remaining areas. In particular, peeling in the overlapping areas of multiple material layers has the advantage of a less significant increase in thickness. Therefore, the use of peeled composite material is particularly advantageous when the composite material is flipped or folded—for example, in the region of the longitudinal seam.

[0027] Another embodiment of the bundled package is characterized by material weakening within the packaging sleeve, particularly in the outer covering holes, to secure the tipping element. This weakening facilitates the subsequent assembly of the tipping element into the corresponding packaging sleeve. For this purpose, for example, through-holes are first punched into the composite material, and then the through-holes are covered. For example, a plastic film can be used for the outer covering, which seals the packaging until the tipping element is applied.

[0028] According to another embodiment of the bundled shipment, the thickness of the plastic film is set in the range of 10 µm to 50 µm, particularly in the range of 15 µm to 40 µm. Extremely thin films offer advantages in terms of low cost and light weight, while thicker films offer advantages in terms of higher tear resistance. It has been found that films with thicknesses within the set range represent a good trade-off between these requirements. For example, the film thickness can be measured according to DIN 53370.

[0029] In another embodiment of the bundled shipment, the plastic film is configured as multiple layers. The different layers of the film can be made of the same material or different materials, for example, PE (polyethylene) and / or PP (polypropylene) and / or PA (polyamide). Furthermore, the different layers of the film can have the same thickness or different thicknesses. By using films of different materials and different thicknesses, the desired properties of the film can be optimally combined and adjusted.

[0030] According to another embodiment of the bundled shipment, the plastic film is configured to have stretch and / or shrinkage properties. Stretch film (also known as “stretch membrane”) is intended to be understood as a film with a very high stretching capacity, particularly at least 100%, particularly at least 150%, at least 200%, or at least 300% (e.g., measured according to DIN EN ISO 527). In particular, high stretching properties have the advantage of not tearing the film even under high loads. Shrink film is intended to be understood as a film that shrinks and thus “shrinks” under certain conditions (particularly when heated and subsequently cooled). Preferably, the film has a shrinkage value of at least 5%, particularly at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, or at least 40%. The advantage of a film with shrinkage properties is that the film can be applied around the contents to be packaged in its original contour and, where applicable, can even be compressed.

[0031] The tensile and / or shrinkage properties of the film can be configured to be orientation-dependent. Specifically, the tensile and / or shrinkage properties of the film along the longitudinal and transverse directions can be configured to differ, wherein the longitudinal and transverse directions define an angle of 90°. The elongation at break along the transverse direction can be configured to be at least 50%, particularly at least 75%, at least 100%, or at least 200% higher (and vice versa) than the elongation at break along the longitudinal direction. Alternatively or additionally, the shrinkage value along the longitudinal direction can be configured to be at least 100%, particularly at least 150%, at least 200%, or at least 300% higher (and vice versa) than the shrinkage value along the transverse direction. In this way, optimal adjustment of the film's mechanical properties relative to the packaging sleeve to be packaged can be achieved. Preferably, the shrinkage value of the film along the stacking direction is greater than the shrinkage values ​​along the other two spatial directions, such that when the film shrinks, the bundle is compressed, particularly along the stacking direction. Alternatively, it may be expected that the shrinkage value of the film along the circumferential direction of the bundle is greater than the shrinkage value along the two spatial directions, such that the film is placed in a wavy manner in the intermediate space between adjacent packaging sleeves during shrinkage.

[0032] According to another embodiment of the bundled package, the plastic film is arranged to wrap around the packaging sleeve in a corrugated manner, at least in the area of ​​the folded edges. For example, the corrugation can be achieved using a shrink film that contracts and, in this case, is pulled into the intermediate space between adjacent packaging sleeves. Due to the corrugated shape, the packaging sleeves are secured to prevent slippage.

[0033] According to another embodiment of the bundled package, the plastic film is configured to have at least one weld seam, preferably extending substantially along the stacking direction. This allows the outer packaging to be made from a single sheet of film, which is wound around the packaging sleeve assembly and welded. Alternatively, the plastic film can be configured to have two weld seams, which preferably extend substantially along the stacking direction. This allows the outer packaging to be made from two sheets of film, which are placed on both sides around the packaging sleeve assembly and welded.

[0034] Alternatively, the membrane can be configured to be pre-formed in a tubular manner (e.g., by extrusion). This results in no weld seams being provided along the stacking direction. Instead, the packaging sleeve assembly can be pushed into the tubular or cylindrical membrane.

[0035] In another embodiment of the bundled package, the plastic film is configured to have at least one welded end, which is preferably located on one of the end sides of the bundle. Preferably, the width of the film is greater than the length of the packaging sleeve assembly to be packaged. Therefore, openings to be closed are formed on both end sides of the packaging sleeve assembly. One possibility in this regard involves welding the overhanging ends of the plastic film together. Depending on the length of the overhanging ends, a fully welded end is formed, or an opening, which may also be referred to as a "window," is left on the end side after welding.

[0036] According to another embodiment of the bundled package, the final plastic film is configured to include printed material. This printed material can be a machine-readable code, such as a barcode or two-dimensional code (2D code), particularly a QR code. For example, the printed material may contain information about the product, manufacturing process, or product tracking. Alternatively or additionally, the printed material may contain information about the location and / or handling and / or opening of the bundled package, which facilitates further processing of the bundled package in a filling machine. The printed material may be configured to be printed directly on the plastic film or printed on a label affixed to the plastic film. Attached Figure Description

[0037] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to only one preferred embodiment. In the accompanying drawings:

[0038] Figure 1A This shows a blank known in the prior art for folding packaging sleeves.

[0039] Figure 1BIt shows what is known in the prior art and is made by Figure 1A The packaging sleeve formed from the blank shown is in a flat-folded state.

[0040] Figure 2A This illustrates a first bundle of packages known in the prior art, comprising an outer packaging and multiple packaging sleeves.

[0041] Figure 2B This illustrates a second bundle known in the prior art, comprising an outer packaging and multiple packaging sleeves.

[0042] Figure 3A A first embodiment of a packaging sleeve assembly with an outer packaging is shown.

[0043] Figure 3B A first embodiment of the bundled component according to the present invention is shown.

[0044] Figure 4A A second embodiment of a packaging sleeve assembly with an outer packaging is shown.

[0045] Figure 4B A second embodiment of the bundled component according to the present invention is shown.

[0046] Figure 5A A third embodiment of a packaging sleeve assembly with an outer packaging is shown.

[0047] Figure 5B A third embodiment of the bundled component according to the present invention is shown.

[0048] Figure 6 A plan view of a bundled package including an outer packaging and multiple packaging sleeves according to the present invention, and

[0049] Figure 7 The illustration shows multiple bundles of items according to the invention stacked on a pallet. Detailed Implementation

[0050] Figure 1A A blank 1, known in the prior art, is shown, from which a packaging sleeve can be formed. The blank 1 may comprise multiple layers of different materials (e.g., paper, cardboard, hardboard, plastic, or metal, particularly aluminum). The blank 1 has multiple fold lines 2 designed to facilitate folding and divide the blank 1 into multiple faces. The blank 1 can be subdivided into a first side 3, a second side 4, a front 5, a back 6, a sealing surface 7, a bottom surface 8, and a gable wall 9. The blank 1 can be folded in such a way that the sealing surface 7 can be joined (particularly welded) to the front 5, thereby forming the packaging sleeve from the blank 1.

[0051] Figure 1BThe diagram shows a packaging sleeve 10 in a folded state, as known in the prior art. The packaging sleeve is already relative to... Figure 1A The area described is in Figure 1B The corresponding attached diagrams are provided. The packaging sleeve 10 is made of... Figure 1A The blank 1 shown is formed. For this purpose, the blank 1 is folded such that the sealing surface 7 and the front surface are arranged to overlap, such that these two surfaces are welded together in a flat manner. Thus, a longitudinal seam 11 is created. Figure 1B The image shows the packaging sleeve 10 folded together in a flat manner along the two folding edges F. In this state, the side 4 (in...) Figure 1B The hidden part is located below the front 5, while the other side 3 is located on the back 6 (in...). Figure 1B (Hidden in the middle). The front side 5 and the adjacent side 3 thus form the front side 12 of the packaging sleeve 10, and the back side 6 and the adjacent side 4 thus form the rear side 13 of the packaging sleeve. Multiple packaging sleeves 10 can be stacked in a particularly space-saving manner when folded together. Therefore, the packaging sleeves 10 are often stacked at the production location and transported in piles to the filling location. The packaging sleeves 10 are only unstacked and unfolded at the filling location to allow for the filling of contents (e.g., food). Filling can be performed under aseptic conditions. The food may contain at least one liquid component.

[0052] Figure 2A The diagram shows a first bundle 14', as known in the prior art, comprising an outer package 15' and multiple packaging sleeves 10, and... Figure 2B This illustrates a second bundle 14” as known in the prior art, comprising an outer package 15” and multiple packaging sleeves 10. Figure 2A In the bundle 14' shown, the outer packaging 15' is formed of corrugated cardboard, making it very sturdy. Therefore, Figure 2A The outer packaging 15' provides good mechanical protection for the packaging sleeve 10 stored within. However, a disadvantage of the outer packaging 15' is its very low elasticity, which prevents the bundled items 14' from being compressed and therefore not transported in a space-saving manner. Additionally, the rigid outer packaging requires disassembly after removing the packaging sleeve 10 to minimize its space requirements. Figure 2B In the bundle 14” shown, the outer packaging 15” is made of paper, so the packaging sleeve 10 is encased in paper like a gift. Therefore, after removing the packaging sleeve 10, the outer packaging 15” can simply be folded up and discarded. However, a disadvantage of the outer packaging 15” is that the paper has low elasticity and low tear resistance. Therefore, the bundle 14” cannot accommodate any packaging sleeve 10 compressed in a space-saving manner, as the restoring force will cause the paper to tear.

[0053] Figure 3AA first embodiment of a packaging sleeve assembly 16 with an outer packaging is shown, and Figure 3B A first embodiment of the bundle 14 according to the invention, made from this packaging sleeve assembly 16, is shown. For better understanding, Figure 3A and Figure 3B It's a perspective view. The areas already described above are in... Figure 3A and Figure 3B The corresponding figure labels are provided. Figure 3A and Figure 3B In this packaging, the outer packaging 15 is formed of a resilient plastic film 17. The plastic film may have one weld 18 or may have multiple welds 18 (e.g., two welds 18 arranged on opposite sides). The protruding ends 19 of the plastic film 17 can be redirected at both ends of the packaging sleeve assembly 16 by means of hot air. For this purpose, four hot air nozzles 20A, 20B, 20C, and 20D are preferably arranged at both ends of the packaging sleeve assembly 16, wherein only the nozzles on the front side are shown. Action on the protruding ends 19 of the plastic film 17 causes the protruding ends 19 to abut against the end face of the packaging sleeve assembly 16 and can be welded together at the end face, as can be achieved by... Figure 3B As seen in the diagram, a complete bundle 14 with closed ends 19 is shown. Due to the relatively large amount of material at the welded ends of the plastic film 17, there is an irregularly formed structure in the central region of the end side; however, this structure is not detrimental to the function of the outer packaging. Furthermore, it can be seen that welds 18 are folded onto the end sides on both sides of the bundle 14. Preferably, hot air is first supplied to opposing nozzles 20A and 20B to apply the protruding upper and lower ends 19 of the plastic film 17 to the end sides of the packaging sleeve assembly 16 before subsequent activation of nozzles 20C and 20D, such that all protruding ends 19 are applied in a flat manner and welded to each other. Obviously, in this case, welding is not intended to be performed between the coating of the plastic film 17 and the outer packaging sleeve 10 of the packaging sleeve assembly 16. Finally, in Figure 3A As can be clearly seen, the packaging sleeve assembly 16 in the region on its end side tightly surrounds the packaging sleeve assembly 16 at the corner and along its edge, thereby creating an inherently stable and therefore easily transportable solid unit. Figure 3A and Figure 3BAs shown in the following figures, a loading carrier B is also depicted, which is surrounded by a plastic film 17 in the same manner as the packaging sleeve 10. For example, the loading carrier B may be placed on the packaging sleeve 10 and thus arranged between the packaging sleeve 10 and the plastic film 17. The loading carrier B is intended to contain an active substance (e.g., a bactericide) and introduce it into the bundle 14. For example, the loading carrier B may be constructed as a flat plate. The loading carrier B is only optional, and therefore the bundle 14 according to the invention may or may not have the loading carrier B.

[0054] Figure 4A A second embodiment of the packaging sleeve assembly 16 with outer packaging is shown, and Figure 4B A second embodiment of the bundle 14 according to the invention, made from this packaging sleeve assembly 16, is shown. For better understanding, Figure 4A and Figure 4B It's a perspective view. The areas already described above are in... Figure 4A and Figure 4B The corresponding figure labels are provided. (And...) Figure 3A and Figure 3B The difference lies in the fact that the width of the plastic film 17 is shorter than the length of the packaging sleeve assembly 16, resulting in a shorter protruding end 19. This causes the end side of the packaging sleeve assembly 16 to not be completely covered by the plastic film when the protruding ends 19 are flipped over on the end faces and welded together. Instead, in Figure 4B In the image, a window 21 can be seen formed at the center of the end face. For example, when it is not intended to thicken the plastic film 17 welded together on the end side, such a complete bundle 14 implementation is desired.

[0055] Figure 5A A second embodiment of the packaging sleeve assembly 16 with outer packaging is shown, and Figure 5B A second embodiment of the bundle 14 according to the invention, made from this packaging sleeve assembly 16, is shown. For better understanding, Figure 5A and Figure 5B It is also a perspective view. The areas already described above are in... Figure 5A and Figure 5B The corresponding figure labels are provided. (And...) Figure 3A , Figure 3B as well as Figure 4A , Figure 4B The difference lies in the fact that the plastic film 17 has no weld seams. For example, the lateral weld seams extending along the stacking direction can be omitted by using a plastic film 17 that has already been made in a tubular manner (e.g., by extrusion). Additionally, the plastic film 17 can be configured in the form of a bag, such that the plastic film 17 is already closed at one end (in... Figure 5A and Figure 5B(as shown on the rear side), and only needs to be closed on the front side.

[0056] Figure 6 This is a plan view of a bundle 14 including an outer packaging and multiple packaging sleeves 10 according to the present invention. The areas already described above are... Figure 6 Corresponding reference numerals are provided in the accompanying drawings. Twenty packaging sleeves 10 are shown, tightly stacked and surrounded and held together by a plastic film 17. The stacking direction S is schematically indicated by a double arrow and extends perpendicular to the packaging sleeves 10. (As already combined...) Figure 4B As described, the plastic film 17 forms a window 21 in the region of its lower end face. It can be seen that each packaging sleeve 10 has three areas of increased thickness: the regions of the two folded edges F and the region of the longitudinal seam 11. This is in... Figure 6 This is particularly evident in the enlarged cut view (shown at the top). The packaging sleeve 10 has a minimum thickness D1, which is less than the thickness D2 in the region of the longitudinal seam 11 and also less than the thickness D3 in the region of the folded edge F. The increased thickness D2 in the region of the longitudinal seam 11 is due to the fact that the end region 5' of the front surface 5 and the end region 7' ​​of the sealing surface 7 overlap in the region of the longitudinal seam 11. Therefore, in the region of the longitudinal seam 11, the packaging sleeve 10 has at least a three-layer structure instead of a two-layer structure. The thickness D1 of the packaging sleeve 10 is, for example, in the range of 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm, while the increased thickness D2 of the packaging sleeve 10 is, for example, in the range of 0.6 mm to 3.0 mm. The transition between different thicknesses is also referred to as "Lagensprung". The plastic film 17 can be located in the region surrounding the folded edge F of the packaging sleeve 10, and can therefore be formed in a wavy manner in this region (which can be seen in the enlarged area of ​​FIG. 5). This can be achieved through the elasticity of the plastic material film 17 and / or by using a shrink film.

[0057] In addition to overlapping, one or both end regions 5' and 7' can be folded. The inner end region (in...) Figure 6 Folding the end region 7' ​​has the advantage that only the innermost layer of the material of the packaging sleeve 10 can come into contact with the contents of the package from which it will be produced. This causes the other material layers of the packaging sleeve 10 (e.g., the central layer formed of paper, cardboard, or hardboard) to separate from the contents of the package. In this way, both the sealing and hygiene requirements of the package are ensured. However, a complete folding of the inner end region 7' ​​would result in a further increase in the thickness of the packaging sleeve 10 in the region of the longitudinal seam 11. Therefore, it can be arranged that only a few layers of the end region 7', particularly the innermost layer of the end region 7', are folded. For this purpose, the remaining layers are separated or peeled off before the folding action.

[0058] from Figure 6 As can be seen, the packaging sleeve 10 can be folded only to the degree of tightness allowed by its thickest area. Specifically, these areas are the areas of the two folded edges F and the area of ​​the longitudinal seam 11. The folding density of the packaging sleeve 10 can be measured and indicated by specifying the number of packaging sleeves 10 in each length unit L, where the length unit L is measured along the stacking direction S. To obtain the most accurate indication of the stacking density possible, a large number of packaging sleeves 10 should be counted, and the number of packaging sleeves 10 (e.g., one hundred packaging sleeves 10) should be divided by the length unit L. Preferably, the stacking density is at least 4.0 packaging sleeves per centimeter, particularly at least 4.5 packaging sleeves per centimeter, particularly at least 5.0 packaging sleeves per centimeter, particularly at least 5.5 packaging sleeves per centimeter, particularly at least 6.0 packaging sleeves per centimeter, particularly at least 6.5 packaging sleeves per centimeter, particularly at least 6.75 packaging sleeves per centimeter, particularly at least 7.0 packaging sleeves per centimeter, particularly at least 7.25 packaging sleeves per centimeter, or at least 7.5 packaging sleeves per centimeter.

[0059] at last, Figure 7 A conventional pallet 22 is shown, which is known in the prior art and is loaded with a large number of bundles 14 according to the invention. For this purpose, the individual bundles 14, formed by a packaging sleeve assembly 16 having a large number of packaging sleeves 10 and an outer packaging formed of a plastic film 17, are stacked on the pallet 22. This pallet 22, loaded with the bundles 14 according to the invention, is configured for further transport of the packaging sleeves 10, for example, to a location for the filling and manufacturing of finished packaging.

[0060] Figure 7 It is also shown that the edges of the bundles 14 stacked on the pallet 22 are provided with edge protectors 23, which are placed only for, for example, to reinforce the transport of cardboard. The assembly including the bundles 14, the edge protectors 23, and at least the load-bearing side of the pallet 22 is then surrounded by a plastic material film 24 (particularly shrink film and / or stretch film), which, where appropriate, is heated to form a fixed unit that cannot slip when transported by truck.

[0061] Compared with systems known in the prior art, Figure 7 The system illustrated by example has various advantages, such as the packaging unit, including the packaging sleeve, being packed in a surrounding box that serves as the outer packaging. In this case, the most significant advantage is the significantly more cost-effective use of a plastic film for the outer packaging. Furthermore, weight can be reduced compared to existing solutions. Additionally, waste caused by the outer packaging can be reduced, and better protection of the packaging unit from contamination—for example, in the form of surrounding casting dust—can also be achieved.

[0062] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram:

[0063] 1: Billet

[0064] 2: Folding lines

[0065] 3, 4: Side view

[0066] 5: Front

[0067] 5': (Front-facing 5) End region

[0068] 6: Back

[0069] 7: Sealing surface

[0070] 7': (End region of sealing surface 7)

[0071] 8: Bottom

[0072] 9: Gable wall

[0073] 10: Packaging sleeves

[0074] 11: Longitudinal joint

[0075] 12: (Packaging sleeve 10) Front side

[0076] 13: (Packaging sleeve 10) Rear side

[0077] 14, 14', 14”: Bundled

[0078] 15, 15', 15”: Outer packaging

[0079] 16: Packaging sleeve assembly

[0080] 17: Plastic film materials

[0081] 18: Weld

[0082] 19: (End of plastic film 16)

[0083] 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D: Hot air nozzles

[0084] 21: Window

[0085] 22: Pallet

[0086] 23: Edge protection components

[0087] B: Loading carrier

[0088] D1: (Minimum thickness of packaging sleeve 10)

[0089] D2: Thickness (in the area of ​​longitudinal joint 11)

[0090] D3: Thickness (in the area of ​​the folded edge F)

[0091] L: Length unit

[0092] F: (Folded edge of packaging sleeve 10)

[0093] S: Stacking direction

Claims

1. A bundle (14) comprising a packaging sleeve (10) and an outer packaging (15), said bundle (14) comprising: - Multiple packaging sleeves (10) made of composite materials, and - Outer packaging (15), said outer packaging (15) surrounds said packaging sleeve (10). - Each packaging sleeve (10) has a front side (12) and a rear side (13). - In this embodiment, the front side (12) and the rear side (13) of each packaging sleeve (10) are separated from each other by a folding edge (F), and the packaging sleeve (10) is folded flat along the folding edge (F). - Each packaging sleeve (10) has two openings, the two openings being arranged on opposite sides of the packaging sleeve (10), and - Each packaging sleeve (10) has a longitudinal seam (11) that connects the two edges of the composite material to form a circumferential packaging sleeve (10). Its features are, The outer packaging (15) is made of plastic film (17).

2. The bundled components according to claim 1, Its features are, The outer packaging (15) is assembled with the packaging sleeves (10) in such a manner that at least 4.0 packaging sleeves are arranged per centimeter along the stacking direction (S), particularly at least 4.5 packaging sleeves per centimeter, particularly at least 5.0 packaging sleeves per centimeter, particularly at least 5.5 packaging sleeves per centimeter, particularly at least 6.0 packaging sleeves per centimeter, particularly at least 6.5 packaging sleeves per centimeter, particularly at least 6.75 packaging sleeves per centimeter, particularly at least 7.0 packaging sleeves per centimeter, particularly at least 7.25 packaging sleeves per centimeter, or at least 7.5 packaging sleeves per centimeter.

3. The bundled components according to claim 1 or 2, Its features are, The packaging sleeves (10) are arranged in the outer packaging (15) such that the longitudinal seams (11) of all the packaging sleeves (10) extend parallel to each other.

4. The bundled components according to any one of claims 1 to 3, Its features are, The packaging sleeves (10) are arranged in the outer packaging (15) such that the longitudinal seams (11) of all the packaging sleeves (10) are arranged in a common plane extending along the stacking direction (S).

5. The bundled components according to any one of claims 1 to 4, Its features are, The packaging sleeves (10) are arranged in the outer packaging (15) in such a way that the front sides (12) of all the packaging sleeves (10) face the same direction and the rear sides (13) of all the packaging sleeves (10) face the same direction.

6. The bundled components according to any one of claims 1 to 5, Its features are, The packaging sleeve (10) is folded flat at an angle of approximately 180° along the two folding edges (F).

7. The bundled components according to any one of claims 1 to 6, Its features are, The two folded edges (F) extend parallel to each other.

8. The bundled components according to any one of claims 1 to 7, Its features are, The packaging sleeve (10) is folded only along the two folded edges (F).

9. The bundled item according to any one of claims 1 to 8, Its features are, The packaging sleeve (10) has a bottom surface (8) and a mountain-shaped wall surface (9), which are arranged on opposite sides of two sides (3, 4), a front (5) and a back (6).

10. The bundled item according to any one of claims 1 to 9, Its features are, The composite material of the packaging sleeve (10) has a strength of 150 g / m. 2 Up to 500 g / m 2 Within the range, especially at 200 g / m 2 Up to 350 g / m 2 Within the range.

11. The bundled item according to any one of claims 1 to 10, Its features are, The thickness of the composite material of the packaging sleeve (10) is in the range of 0.25 mm to 0.75 mm, particularly in the range of 0.3 mm to 0.6 mm.

12. The bundled item according to any one of claims 1 to 11, Its features are, The composite material has at least one layer of paper, thin paperboard or hard paperboard, which covers the edge of the longitudinal seam (11) extending within the packaging sleeve (10', 10").

13. The bundled item according to any one of claims 1 to 12, Its features are, The composite material is peeled off in the region of the longitudinal joint (11).

14. The bundled items according to any one of claims 1 to 13, Its features are, The material in the packaging sleeve (10), particularly in the outer covering hole, is weakened to secure the tipping element.

15. The bundled item according to any one of claims 1 to 14, Its features are, The thickness of the plastic material film (17) is in the range of 10 µm to 50 µm, particularly in the range of 15 µm to 40 µm.

16. The bundled item according to any one of claims 1 to 15, Its features are, The plastic material film (17) is multi-layered.

17. The bundled item according to any one of claims 1 to 16, Its features are, The plastic material film (17) has tensile and / or shrinkage properties.

18. The bundled item according to any one of claims 1 to 17, Its features are, The plastic film (17) is wavy around the packaging sleeve (10) at least in the area of ​​the folded edge (F).

19. The bundled item according to any one of claims 1 to 18, Its features are, The plastic material film (17) has at least one weld (18), which preferably extends substantially along the stacking direction (S).

20. The bundled item according to any one of claims 1 to 19, Its features are, The plastic film (17) has at least one welded end (19), which is preferably located on one of the ends of the bundle (14).

21. The bundled item according to any one of claims 1 to 20, Its features are, The plastic material film (17) includes printed material.

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