Packaging processing device for a packaging machine, packaging machine with a packaging processing device, and method for processing packaging or packaging material.

Abstract

Packaging processing device for a packaging machine, comprising at least one sealing unit (14) for sealing a package (16) or packaging material, comprising at least one folding unit (20) comprising at least one movably mounted folding element (22, 24) designed to fold over a sealing seam produced in the package (16) or packaging material by sealing with the sealing unit (14), and comprising at least one separating unit (38) comprising at least one separating element (40) designed to separate sealed and filled packages from the package (16) or packaging material, characterized by at least one support unit (42) comprising at least one movably mounted support element (34, 36) by means of which the package (16) or packaging material can be laterally supported during filling and / or sealing, wherein the folding element (22, 24),considered along a conveying direction (26) of the packaging (16) or the packaging material, spatially arranged between the support element (34, 36) and the separating element (40).

Description

State of the art

[0001] The invention relates to a packaging processing device for a packaging machine, with at least one sealing unit for sealing a package or packaging material.

[0002] Such packaging processing devices are already known, for example, from EP 0 255 474 A2 and EP 2 489 284 A1, whereby in the already known packaging processing devices, peeling of sealing seams can occur during a filling process of the packaging following a sealing of the packaging, so that unwanted leaks can occur in the area of ​​the sealing seams.

[0003] The object of the invention is, in particular, to provide a generic packaging processing device, a generic packaging machine, and a generic method with improved properties with regard to the quality of sealing seams, especially with regard to resistance to peeling of still-warm sealing seams during a filling process. This object is achieved according to the invention by the features of claim 1, claim 7, and claim 8, respectively, while advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention can be found in the dependent claims. Disclosure of the invention

[0004] The invention relates to a packaging processing device, in particular a sealing seam application device, for a packaging machine, in particular for a vertical form-fill-seal machine, with at least one sealing unit, in particular with at least one transverse seam sealing unit, for sealing a package or a packaging material, in particular at least by creating a transverse seal in the package or in the packaging material.

[0005] It is proposed that the packaging processing device comprise at least one folding unit, which includes at least one movably mounted folding element designed to fold over a sealing seam, in particular the transverse seal, produced by sealing with the sealing unit in the packaging or packaging material. The inventive design advantageously achieves high-quality sealing seams, particularly with regard to resistance to peeling of still-warm sealing seams during a filling process. Folding over the still-warm sealing seams advantageously prevents peeling of the still-warm sealing seam during product filling.It can be advantageous to enable a high operating cycle of a packaging machine that includes the packaging processing device, especially since a folding of the sealing seam can advantageously lead to a low influence or to a near independence from a heat seal strength of the sealing seams.

[0006] Preferably, the sealing unit is designed as a transverse seam sealing unit for creating at least one transverse seal in the packaging or packaging material. However, it is also conceivable that the sealing unit is alternatively designed as a longitudinal seam sealing unit for creating at least one longitudinal seal in the packaging or packaging material. The sealing unit preferably comprises at least one movably mounted sealing tool, in particular at least one transverse sealing jaw. More preferably, the sealing unit comprises at least two sealing tools movable relative to each other, in particular at least two transverse sealing jaws. It is also conceivable that the sealing unit has a different number of sealing tools than two, in particular movably mounted ones, such as three, four, five, six or more sealing tools, especially depending on the type of packaging to be sealed.The sealing tools, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, are preferably mounted so as to be movable relative to each other at least in the horizontal plane, and in particular so as to be movable towards and away from each other. Preferably, the sealing tools, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, are mounted so as to be movable on a frame, in particular on a jaw assembly, of the packaging processing device. To move the sealing tools, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, and to create a seal, in particular a transverse seal, the sealing tools, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, can be pneumatically, hydraulically, or electrically driven in a manner known to those skilled in the art. The sealing tools, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, are preferably designed to be heated in a manner known to those skilled in the art. Preferably, the sealing unit is designed as a heat-sealing unit.However, it is also conceivable that the sealing unit has a different design that would appear sensible to a person skilled in the art, such as an ultrasonic sealing unit, an induction sealing unit, or the like.

[0007] The folding unit is preferably designed to fold, bend, fold, or apply to the packaging the created seal seam and / or a fin of the packaging on which the seal seam is located, after the seal seam has been created by the application of a force, particularly along a direction transverse to a vertical direction, by the folding unit, and especially at least by the folding element. "Designed" is to be understood in particular as specifically designed and / or specially equipped. The fact that an object is designed for a specific function is to be understood in particular as the object fulfilling and / or performing this specific function in at least one application and / or operating condition.It is conceivable that the folded-over seal seam and / or the folded-over fin is sealed to the packaging after being folded over by one of the sealing tools of the sealing unit or the folding unit, in particular by means of localized heating of the seal seam, the fin, or a packaging base. It is also conceivable that the created seal seam and / or the created fin is still softened after a sealing process to such an extent that, as a result of the seal seam and / or the fin being applied to the packaging, in particular to the packaging base, the seal seam and / or the fin adheres to it.

[0008] The folding unit can be formed at least partially as a single unit with the sealing unit. However, it is also conceivable that the folding unit is formed at least partially as a single unit with another unit of the packaging processing device that would appear useful to a person skilled in the art, or that the folding unit is formed as a separate, independent unit. The phrase "a unit is formed at least partially as a single unit with another unit" is to be understood in particular as meaning that at least one element can be used by both units to fulfill a function of the unit and the other unit. For example, it is conceivable that the folding unit, in particular the folding element and another folding element of the folding unit, is formed by the sealing tools, in particular by the transverse sealing jaws.In the case of at least a partial or complete configuration of the folding unit by the sealing tools, in particular by the transverse sealing jaws, it is conceivable that the frame, in particular the jaw assembly, on which the sealing tools, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, are movably mounted, is movably mounted horizontally, and in particular is moved horizontally. Furthermore, in the case of at least a partial or complete configuration of the folding unit by the sealing tools, in particular by the transverse sealing jaws, it is conceivable that one of the sealing tools, in particular one of the transverse sealing jaws, is moved from a sealing position to an opening position, while the other sealing tool, in particular the other transverse sealing jaw, is moved beyond the sealing position in the direction of the sealing tool that is in or moving towards the opening position.In the sealing position, the sealing tools, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, preferably rest against the packaging or packaging material to be sealed, particularly to create the transverse seal. In the sealing position, both sealing tools, in particular both transverse sealing jaws, act on the packaging or packaging material to create the transverse seal, whereby the sealing tools, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, are pressed against each other. Preferably, the sealing tools, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, are closed in the sealing position. In the opening position, the sealing tools, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, are preferably open. Preferably, the sealing tools, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, are spaced apart from each other along a horizontal direction in the opening position.

[0009] Furthermore, it is also conceivable that the transfer unit is at least partially formed as a single unit with a support unit of the packaging processing device. With a partial or complete one-piece design of the transfer unit by the support unit, it is conceivable that the sealing tools, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, are only slightly opened while the support unit, together with a package held by the support unit during a sealing process, is moved along the horizontal direction relative to the sealing unit, particularly while the sealing tools are still in the sealing position, preferably still closed, or particularly while the sealing tools are in the opening position at the beginning of a movement, preferably slightly open.Other designs and / or functions of the folding unit that would appear sensible to a specialist for folding over the sealing seam and / or the fin when the folding unit is designed by the sealing tools, in particular by the transverse sealing jaws, or by the support unit are also conceivable.

[0010] It is also conceivable that the folding unit is designed as a separate, in particular independent, unit, with at least the folding element being arranged between the sealing unit and the support unit, particularly when considered along the vertical direction.In a separate design of the folding unit from the sealing unit and the support unit, it is conceivable, for example, that the folding element arranged between the sealing unit and the support unit folds over the seal seam and / or the fin after the sealing tools, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, have been opened. This can be achieved by moving the folding element relative to the sealing unit and the support unit along the horizontal direction, in particular by translational and / or rotational movement along the horizontal direction, such as by designing the folding element as a sliding plate, a sliding finger, a rotating disc that is horizontally displaceable, a rotating finger, a type of rotating cam disc, or the like. A combination of the above-mentioned possible designs of the folding unit, which would appear sensible to a person skilled in the art, is also possible.The folding element can be designed as one of the sealing tools, as a support element of the support unit, as an additional element arranged between the sealing unit and the support unit when viewed along the vertical direction, or as another element that would appear useful to a person skilled in the art. The folding unit, particularly in a separate embodiment from the sealing unit and the support unit, or in a design of the folding unit at least partially or completely by the sealing unit or the support unit, has at least one folding element, preferably at least two folding elements, which preferably interact with each other to fold over the seal seam and / or the fin, and are movable together or relative to each other, particularly along the horizontal direction.

[0011] Furthermore, it is proposed that the transfer element be movably mounted along a direction transverse, and in particular at least substantially perpendicular, to a conveying direction of the packaging or packaging material. The term "substantially perpendicular" is intended to define, in particular, an orientation of a direction relative to a reference direction, wherein the direction and the reference direction, especially when viewed in a projection plane, enclose an angle of 90° and the angle has a maximum deviation of, in particular, less than 8°, advantageously less than 5°, and most advantageously less than 2°. The conveying direction is preferably a direction along which the packaging or packaging material can be conveyed, and in particular is conveyed, by means of a conveying unit of the packaging machine.Preferably, the conveying direction, at least in the area of ​​the packaging processing device, runs at least substantially parallel to the vertical direction. "Substantially parallel" here refers in particular to an alignment of a direction relative to a reference direction, especially in a plane, wherein the direction has a deviation from the reference direction of preferably less than 8°, advantageously less than 5°, and particularly advantageously less than 2°. The folding element and / or the further folding element are preferably movably mounted along the horizontal direction, especially in the horizontal plane. Preferably, the folding element and / or the further folding element are movably mounted translationally along the horizontal direction, especially when the folding element and / or the further folding element is configured as a transverse seam sealing jaw(s) or as a support element(s) of the support unit.In a configuration of the folding element that is separate from the sealing unit and the support unit, the folding element can be movably mounted translationally along the horizontal direction or rotationally about an axis of movement that is at least substantially perpendicular or at least substantially parallel to the horizontal plane. Further movable mountings of the folding element and / or of the further folding element for folding the seal seam and / or the fin, which would appear useful to a person skilled in the art, are also conceivable. The design according to the invention advantageously enables a compact design of the packaging processing device. Existing installation space can be used effectively.It is advantageous to achieve a high quality of sealing seams, particularly with regard to stability against peeling of still warm sealing seams during a filling process, whereby a folding function can be advantageously integrated into the sealing process.

[0012] Furthermore, it is proposed that the folding element be formed integrally with a sealing tool, in particular one mentioned above, especially a sealing jaw, preferably one of the transverse sealing jaws, of the sealing unit, or integrally with a support element of the support unit, in particular one mentioned above. Preferably, the further folding element, particularly in the integral design of the folding element with the sealing tool, is formed integrally with one of the sealing tools, in particular one of the sealing jaws, preferably one of the transverse sealing jaws, of the sealing unit, or the further folding element, particularly in the integral design of the folding element with one of the support elements, is formed integrally with the other of the support elements of the support unit.The term "one-piece" is to be understood in particular as being joined at least by a material bond, for example by a welding process, an adhesive bonding process, an injection molding process, and / or another process that would appear appropriate to a person skilled in the art, and / or advantageously formed in one piece, such as by manufacturing from a single casting and / or by manufacturing using a single- or multi-component injection molding process, and advantageously from a single blank. The design according to the invention advantageously enables a compact design of the packaging processing device. Existing installation space can be used effectively.It is advantageous to achieve high-quality sealing seams, particularly with regard to resistance to peeling of still-warm sealing seams during a filling process, while the space requirements of the packaging processing device according to the invention can be largely maintained compared to already known packaging processing devices. A folding function can be advantageously and simply integrated into the sealing and / or filling process.

[0013] Furthermore, it is proposed, particularly in at least one embodiment, that the folding unit be formed integrally with the sealing unit, wherein the sealing unit as a whole is movably mounted, particularly in addition to a movement of the sealing tools of the sealing unit relative to each other to create the seal, along a direction transverse, particularly at least substantially perpendicular, to the conveying direction of the packaging or packaging material, particularly the conveying direction mentioned above. Preferably, a folding of the seal and / or the fin is achieved by a movement of the sealing unit as a whole along the direction transverse, particularly at least substantially perpendicular, to the conveying direction.Preferably, the sealing unit is movably mounted as a whole along the horizontal direction by means of a movable mounting of the frame, in particular the jaw assembly, particularly in a translational manner. The sealing tools, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, are preferably movably mounted relative to the frame, in particular the jaw assembly, on the frame, in particular on the jaw assembly, particularly to create the seal. Preferably, the frame, in particular the jaw assembly, together with the sealing tools, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, arranged thereon, is moved along the horizontal direction to fold over the seal and / or the fin after the sealing tools, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, are no longer in the sealing position, in particular after the sealing tools, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, have been opened again after the seal has been created.Preferably, the frame, in particular the jaw assembly, is moved along the horizontal direction together with the sealing tools, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, arranged thereon, to fold over the sealing seam and / or the fin, after the sealing tools, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, are in a position between the sealing position and the opening position. The design according to the invention advantageously allows for a structurally simple implementation of the folding function. Existing installation space can be used effectively. A high quality of sealing seams can be advantageously achieved, particularly with regard to resistance to peeling of still-warm sealing seams during a filling process, while the space requirement of the packaging processing device according to the invention can be largely maintained compared to previously known packaging processing devices.

[0014] Furthermore, it is proposed, particularly in at least one embodiment, that the packaging processing device comprises at least one separating unit, which has at least one separating element, in particular a separating knife, which is provided for separating sealed and filled packaging from the packaging or the packaging material, and by at least one support unit, which has at least one, in particular movably mounted, support element, by means of which the packaging or the packaging material can be laterally supported, in particular during filling and / or during sealing, wherein the folding element, viewed along a conveying direction of the packaging or the packaging material, in particular the one already mentioned, is spatially arranged between the support element and the separating element.Preferably, in a configuration of the folding unit that is at least partially or completely integrated with the sealing unit, or in a configuration of the folding unit that is separate from the sealing unit and the support unit, the folding element is spatially arranged between the support element and the separating element when viewed along the conveying direction of the packaging or packaging material. Preferably, in a configuration as a sealing tool, particularly as a transverse sealing jaw, the folding element is spatially arranged between the support element and the separating element when viewed along the conveying direction of the packaging or packaging material. Alternatively, the folding element is designed separately from the sealing tool and the support element and is spatially arranged between the support element and the separating element when viewed along the conveying direction of the packaging or packaging material.Preferably, in a separate embodiment, the folding element is arranged spatially between the support element and the sealing tools, viewed along the conveying direction of the packaging or packaging material, with the folding element being positioned upstream of the separating element along the conveying direction. The inventive design advantageously allows for a space-saving integration of a folding function. Existing installation space can be used effectively. A high quality of sealing seams, particularly with regard to resistance to peeling of still-warm sealing seams during a filling process, can be advantageously achieved, while the space requirement of the packaging processing device according to the invention can be largely maintained compared to previously known packaging processing devices.

[0015] Furthermore, it is proposed that the packaging processing device comprise at least one support unit, in particular the one already mentioned, which has at least one support element, in particular the one already mentioned, movably mounted, by means of which the packaging or packaging material can be laterally supported, in particular during filling and / or sealing, and the support element can be driven in an oscillating manner. It is conceivable that, in an alternative embodiment, the packaging processing device for solving the aforementioned problem could be designed independently of the transfer unit.Preferably, in an alternative embodiment, particularly in an embodiment independent of the transfer unit, the packaging processing device comprises at least one sealing unit, in particular a transverse seam sealing unit, for sealing packaging or packaging material, in particular at least by creating a transverse sealing seam in the packaging or packaging material, and at least one support unit, which has at least one support element, in particular a movable support element, by means of which the packaging or packaging material can be laterally supported, in particular during filling and / or sealing, wherein the support element can be driven in an oscillating manner. The support unit preferably comprises at least one oscillation drive unit for driving the support element or elements in an oscillating manner.The oscillation drive unit can be designed as a pneumatic drive unit, a hydraulic drive unit, an electromagnetic drive unit, an electric drive unit, or the like, such as a valve-controlled pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder unit, a piezo actuator, an electric motor in combination with an oscillation gear, as is already known, for example, in hand-held power tools or medical sawing machines, especially so-called bone saws, or the like. The oscillation drive unit can be used to compact a product within the packaging or to implement the folding function. To achieve compaction using the oscillation drive unit, the support element(s) are preferably driven at a high frequency, particularly more than 1 Hz, preferably more than 10 Hz, and most preferably more than 100 Hz.To implement the folding function using the oscillation drive unit, both support elements are moved together from a support position along the horizontal direction and then back to the support position before the support elements release the supported packaging, particularly by moving the support elements in opposite directions. With respect to one operating cycle of the packaging machine, the support elements are preferably moved from the support position to a lateral folding position and back again at a low frequency, particularly less than 10 Hz, preferably less than 1 Hz, and most preferably less than 0.1 Hz, so that a low-frequency oscillating movement can preferably be described.The inventive design advantageously allows for the combination of two functions in a single unit. Existing installation space can be used effectively. High packaging and / or filling quality can be achieved. Efficient packaging filling can be achieved. High-quality sealing seams can be achieved, particularly when a folding function is implemented using the oscillating movement of the support element.

[0016] Furthermore, a packaging machine, in particular a vertical form-fill-seal machine, with at least one packaging processing device according to the invention is proposed. In addition to the packaging processing device, the packaging machine may have a longitudinal sealing unit, or the packaging processing device may have a longitudinal sealing unit in addition to the sealing unit, whereby it is conceivable that the longitudinal sealing unit incorporates a folding function at least substantially analogous to the folding function of the sealing unit. The packaging machine may include further devices and / or units that appear useful to a person skilled in the art, which can be used for forming, filling, and / or closing packaging, in particular food packaging. The packaging machine is preferably designed for forming, filling, and closing packaging.In addition to the packaging processing device, the production machine can have a variety of other devices and / or units that a person skilled in the art would consider useful, such as a conveying unit, a filling unit (which may include a filling tube), a closure feeding device, a sterilization device, or the like. The design according to the invention advantageously achieves high-quality sealing seams, particularly with regard to resistance to peeling of still-warm sealing seams during a filling process. By folding over the still-warm sealing seams, peeling of the still-warm sealing seam during product filling can be advantageously prevented.It can be advantageous to enable a high operating cycle of a packaging machine that includes the packaging processing device, especially since a folding of the sealing seam can advantageously lead to a low influence or to a near independence from a heat seal strength of the sealing seams.

[0017] Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for processing, in particular for folding over, a sealing seam of packaging or packaging material using a packaging processing device, especially a packaging processing device according to the invention. It is proposed that a sealing seam, in particular a transverse sealing seam, produced in the packaging or packaging material by sealing with a sealing unit of the packaging processing device, is folded over by moving at least one movably mounted folding element of a folding unit of the packaging processing device, particularly after the sealing tools of the sealing unit mentioned above have been moved relative to each other to release the sealing seam. Preferably, the folding over of the sealing seam and / or the fin takes place during a packaging forming process and / or a packaging filling process in the packaging machine.Further process steps that would appear sensible to a person skilled in the art can be found in the preceding and following descriptions of the packaging processing device, particularly since a disclosure of device features is to be understood analogously as a disclosure of process features. The inventive design advantageously allows for the achievement of high-quality sealing seams, especially with regard to their resistance to peeling while still warm during a filling process. By folding over the still-warm sealing seams, peeling of the still-warm sealing seam during product filling can be advantageously prevented.It can be advantageous to enable a high operating cycle of a packaging machine that includes the packaging processing device, especially since a folding of the sealing seam can advantageously lead to a low influence or to a near independence from a heat seal strength of the sealing seams.

[0018] Furthermore, it is proposed that the movement of the folding element, particularly along a direction transverse, and especially at least substantially perpendicular, to the conveying direction of the packaging or packaging material, takes place before the sealing unit is fully opened. Preferably, the sealing seam and / or the fin is folded before the sealing tools are in an open position, particularly when the filled packaging is moved between the sealing tools along the conveying direction for separation by means of the separating element. With the embodiment according to the invention, existing assemblies, especially the sealing unit itself, can advantageously be used for folding. A high quality of sealing seams can be advantageously achieved, particularly with regard to stability against peeling of still-warm sealing seams during a filling process.

[0019] Furthermore, it is proposed that the packaging or packaging material be held, particularly laterally, by a support unit of the packaging processing device, especially the one already mentioned, during the folding of the sealing seam by means of the folding element. It is conceivable that, for folding the sealing seam and / or the fin, the sealing unit as a whole is moved relative to the support unit; that, for folding the sealing seam and / or the fin, the support unit is deflected relative to the sealing unit while the sealing tools are held in an intermediate position between the sealing position and the opening position; or that, for folding the sealing seam and / or the fin, the sealing unit as a whole is moved in one direction while the support unit is moved in the opposite direction.that, for folding over the sealing seam and / or the fin, the folding element is designed separately from the sealing unit and the support unit and is moved relative to the support unit while the sealing tools are arranged in the opening position or are on their way to the opening position, with the sealed packaging still being supported and / or held by the support unit, or that, for folding over the sealing seam and / or the fin, other,Relative movements of the aforementioned units and / or elements, which appear sensible to a person skilled in the art, are carried out. Preferably, the sealing seam and / or the fin is folded over after a previously sealed and filled package has been separated from the packaging or packaging material. The design according to the invention advantageously allows for secure support of the package during the folding over of the sealing seam and / or the fin. A high quality of sealing seams can be advantageously achieved, particularly with regard to resistance to peeling of still-warm sealing seams during a filling process.

[0020] The dosing device and / or the production machine according to the invention are not intended to be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the dosing device and / or the production machine according to the invention may, in order to fulfill a function described herein, have a different number of individual elements, components, and units than the number specified herein. Furthermore, values ​​within the specified limits of the value ranges stated in this disclosure are also considered disclosed and freely usable. List of characters

[0021] Further advantages become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. A person skilled in the art will expediently consider the features individually and combine them into meaningful further combinations.

[0022] They show: Fig. 1 A packaging machine according to the invention with at least one packaging processing device according to the invention in a schematic representation, Fig. 2 a detailed view of the packaging processing device according to the invention in a schematic representation, Fig. 3a - Fig. 3d a folding function of the packaging processing device according to the invention in a schematic representation, Fig. 4a - Fig. 4c a folding function and a compaction function of an alternative packaging processing device according to the invention in a schematic representation and Fig. 5 a schematic process flow of a method according to the invention for folding over a sealing seam of a packaging during a packaging forming process and / or a packaging filling process. Description of the exemplary implementations

[0023] Fig. Figure 1 shows a packaging machine 12a with at least one packaging processing device 10a. The packaging machine 12a is preferably designed as a vertical form-fill-seal machine. However, it is also conceivable that the packaging machine 12a has a different configuration that would appear advantageous to a person skilled in the art, such as a horizontal form-fill-seal machine. The packaging machine 12a is preferably used for forming, filling, and sealing packages 16a (see Figure 1). Fig. 2 and Fig. 3a to Fig. 3d) provided. The packaging 16a is preferably designed as tubular bags, zip-lock bags, or other packaging 16a that would be considered suitable by a person skilled in the art. The packaging 16a is preferably made of a packaging material in the form of a film, in particular a plastic film. However, it is also conceivable that the packaging material is made of another material that would be considered suitable by a person skilled in the art, such as a fiber-based material, for example, paper or the like. The film-shaped packaging material is preferably processed by the packaging machine 12a in the form of a roll 44a. The film-shaped packaging material wound on a roll 44a is preferably unwound by a dancer system 46a of the packaging machine 12a in a manner already known to a person skilled in the art and held at a constant web tension.The film-shaped packaging material is preferably formed into a film tube by a format set 48a of the packaging machine 12a, such as a forming shoulder, in a manner known to those skilled in the art. A take-off device 50a of the packaging machine 12a, arranged on the format set 48a, preferably ensures a controlled web speed in the tubular bag forming process in a manner known to those skilled in the art. The take-off device 50a conveys the film-shaped packaging material, in particular the formed film tube, preferably along a conveying direction 26a of the packaging machine 12a, in particular in the direction of the packaging processing device 10a, in a manner known to those skilled in the art. The conveying direction 26a preferably runs at least substantially parallel to a vertical direction in the area of ​​the packaging processing device 10a.

[0024] The formed film tube is provided with a longitudinal seal using a longitudinal sealing unit 52a of the packaging machine 12a or the packaging processing device 10a in a manner already known to those skilled in the art. The longitudinal sealing unit 52a preferably produces seals along the conveying direction 26a. The longitudinally sealed film tube is preferably sealed at least on one side with a seal, in particular a transverse seal 18a (see Figure 14a), using a sealing unit 14a of the packaging processing device 10a in a manner already known to those skilled in the art. Fig. 3a to Fig. 3d), in particular to produce a tubular bag closed at the bottom. Preferably, essentially simultaneously with the insertion of the sealing seam into the film tube in a manner already known to a person skilled in the art, a tubular bag that has already been filled and closed at the bottom is provided on another side, in particular at the top, by means of the sealing unit 14a, with a sealing seam, in particular a further transverse sealing seam 60a, and by means of a separating unit 38a (cf. Fig. 2) the packaging processing device 10a is separated from the still unfilled and open-on-one packaging 16a. However, it is also conceivable that the already filled and bottom-sealed tubular bag is still unsealed on one side, particularly open at the top, during the application of a sealing seam to the film tube. The sealing unit 14a is preferably designed as a transverse seam sealing unit. The sealing unit 14a preferably produces transverse sealing seams 18a, 60a perpendicular to the conveying direction 26a. The packaging machine 12a preferably comprises a control or regulating unit 54a for controlling or regulating a packaging forming process and / or a packaging filling process of the packaging machine 12a.The packaging machine 12a may include further devices and / or units that appear useful to a person skilled in the art and which are used in a packaging forming process and / or a packaging filling process, such as a zip closure insertion unit, a sterilization unit or the like.

[0025] Fig. Figure 2 shows a detailed view of the packaging processing device 10a of the packaging machine 12a. The packaging processing device 10a is preferably designed as a sealing seam application device. The packaging processing device 10a comprises at least the sealing unit 14a for sealing the packaging 16a or the packaging material. The sealing unit 14a is preferably designed for sealing the packaging 16a or the packaging material at least by creating the transverse sealing seam 18a in the packaging 16a or in the packaging material. Preferably, in the embodiment shown in the figures, the sealing unit 14a is designed as a transverse seam sealing unit for creating at least the transverse sealing seam 18a in the packaging 16a or in the packaging material.However, it is also conceivable that the sealing unit 14a is alternatively designed as the longitudinal seam sealing unit 52a or as an additional longitudinal seam sealing unit (not shown in detail here). The sealing unit 14a preferably comprises at least one movably mounted sealing tool 30a, 32a, in particular at least one transverse sealing jaw (see also ). Fig. 3a to Fig. 3d). Preferably, the sealing unit 14a comprises at least two sealing tools 30a, 32a that are movable relative to each other, in particular at least two transverse sealing jaws, which are provided for producing a transverse seal 18a on one side of the packaging 16a. Preferably, the sealing unit 14a comprises two further sealing tools 56a, 58a, in particular two further transverse sealing jaws, which are provided for producing a further transverse seal 60a on another side of the packaging 16a (see also Fig. 3a to Fig. 3d). It is also conceivable that the sealing unit 14a comprises a different number of sealing tools 30a, 32a and / or further sealing tools 56a, 58a than two or four, in particular movably mounted ones, such as three, four, five, six or more sealing tools 30a, 32a and / or further sealing tools 56a, 58a, particularly depending on the type of packaging 16a to be sealed. The sealing tools 30a, 32a, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, are preferably movably mounted relative to each other at least in a horizontal plane, in particular movably mounted towards and away from each other. Preferably, the sealing tools 30a, 32a, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, are movably mounted on a frame 62a, in particular on a jaw assembly, of the packaging processing device 10a.To move the sealing tools 30a, 32a and / or the further sealing tools 56a, 58a to create the seal seam, in particular the transverse seal seam 18a, 60a, the sealing tools 30a, 32a and / or the further sealing tools 56a, 58a can be pneumatically, hydraulically, or electrically driven in a manner known to those skilled in the art. The sealing tools 30a, 32a and / or the further sealing tools 56a, 58a are preferably designed to be heated in a manner known to those skilled in the art.

[0026] The packaging processing device 10a further comprises at least one folding unit 20a, which includes at least one movably mounted folding element 22a, 24a, designed to fold over a sealing seam, in particular the transverse sealing seam 18a, produced by sealing with the sealing unit 14a in the packaging 16a or in the packaging material. The folding unit 20a is preferably designed to fold, bend, fold, or apply to the packaging 16a the produced sealing seam and / or a fin of the packaging 16a on which the sealing seam is arranged, after the sealing seam has been produced by the application of a force, in particular along a force extending transversely to the vertical direction, from the folding unit 20a, in particular at least from the folding element 22a, 24a, to the sealing seam and / or the fin (see [reference]). Fig. 3a to Fig. 3d) It is conceivable that the folded-over sealing seam and / or the folded-over fin is sealed to the packaging 16a after being folded over by means of a sealing tool 30a, 32a of the sealing unit 14a or the folding unit 20a, in particular by means of localized heating of the sealing seam, the fin or a packaging base of the packaging 16a. It is also conceivable that the produced sealing seam and / or the produced fin is still softened after a sealing process to such an extent that, as a result of the sealing seam and / or the fin being applied to the packaging 16a, in particular to the packaging base, the sealing seam and / or the fin adheres to it.

[0027] The transfer unit 20a is in the Fig. 1 to Fig. In the embodiment shown in 3d, the sealing unit 14a is preferably formed at least partially in one piece (see 3d). Fig. 3a to Fig. 3d). However, it is also conceivable that the transfer unit 20a is at least partially formed as a single unit with another unit of the packaging processing device 10a, which would appear sensible to a person skilled in the art (cf. Fig. 4a to Fig. 4c, transfer unit 20b) or that the transfer unit 20a is designed as a separate, independent unit (cf. Fig. 3a, the transfer unit 20a' shown in dashed lines). In the case of a possible configuration of the transfer unit 20a as a separate, in particular independent, transfer unit 20a' (in Fig. 3a (shown only with dashed lines), is the transfer element 22a' (in Fig. 3a shown only in dashed lines), in particular viewed along the vertical direction, between the sealing unit 14a and a support unit 42a of the packaging processing devices 10a.In a separate embodiment of the folding unit 20a from the sealing unit 14a and the support unit 42a, it is conceivable, for example, that the folding element 22a' arranged between the sealing unit 14a and the support unit 42a folds over the seal seam and / or the fin after the sealing tools 30a, 32a, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, have been opened, by the folding element 22a' being movably mounted relative to the sealing unit 14a and the support unit 42a along the horizontal direction, in particular by being moved translationally and / or rotationally along the horizontal direction, such as by designing the folding element 22a' as a sliding plate, as a sliding finger, as a rotating disc that is horizontally displaceable, as a rotating finger, as a type of rotating cam disc or the like.

[0028] Preferably, the folding element 22a and a further folding element 24a of the folding unit 20a are used in the embodiment according to the Fig. 1 to Fig. 3d is formed by the sealing tools 30a, 32a, in particular by the transverse sealing jaws. The folding element 22a and / or the further folding element 24a are preferably movably mounted along a direction 28a extending transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying direction 26a of the packaging 16a or the packaging material. The folding element 22a and / or the further folding element 24a are preferably movably mounted translationally along the horizontal direction, in particular in the horizontal plane. Preferably, the folding element 22a and / or the further folding element 24a are movably mounted translationally along the horizontal direction. The folding element 22a is formed integrally with one of the sealing tools 30a, 32a, in particular one of the transverse sealing jaws, of the sealing unit 14a.The further folding element 24a is formed integrally with the other of the sealing tools 30a, 32a, in particular the other of the transverse sealing jaws, of the sealing unit 14a. Preferably, the sealing unit 14a as a whole, in particular in addition to a movement of the sealing tools 30a, 32a of the sealing unit 14a relative to each other to create the seal, is movably mounted along the direction 28a running transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying direction 26a of the packaging 16a or the packaging material, in particular to realize a folding function. Preferably, the frame 62a, in particular the jaw assembly, on which the sealing tools 30a, 32a, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, are movably mounted, is movably mounted horizontally to realize a folding function.However, it is also conceivable that the frame 62a is preferably arranged in a fixed position and that at least one of the sealing tools 30a, 32a, in particular one of the transverse sealing jaws, is moved from a sealing position to an opening position, while the other of the sealing tools 30a, 32a, in particular the other transverse sealing jaw, is moved beyond the sealing position in the direction of the sealing tool 30a, 32a that is in or moving towards the opening position. In the sealing position, the sealing tools 30a, 32a, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, preferably bear against the packaging 16a or the packaging material to be sealed, in particular to create the transverse seal 18a.In the sealing position, both sealing tools 30a, 32a, in particular both transverse sealing jaws, act to create the transverse seal 18a on the packaging 16a or the packaging material, whereby the sealing tools 30a, 32a, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, are pressed against each other. Preferably, the sealing tools 30a, 32a, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, are closed in the sealing position. In the opening position, the sealing tools 30a, 32a, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, are preferably open. Preferably, the sealing tools 30a, 32a, in particular the transverse sealing jaws, are spaced apart from each other along a horizontal direction in the opening position.

[0029] Furthermore, the packaging processing device 10a includes at least the separation unit 38a (see Fig. 2 and Fig. 3a to Fig. 3d), comprising at least one separating element 40a, in particular a separating blade, which is designed for separating already sealed and filled packages 16a' from the packaging 16a or from the packaging material. Furthermore, the packaging processing device 10a comprises at least the support unit 42a, which has at least one support element 34a, 36a, in particular a movably mounted one, by means of which the packaging 16a or the packaging material can be laterally supported, in particular during filling and / or sealing, wherein the folding element 22a and / or the further folding element 24a, viewed along the conveying direction 26a of the packaging 16a or the packaging material, is spatially arranged between the support element 34a, 36a and the separating element 40a. Preferably, the support unit 42a comprises two support elements 34a, 36a. The support elements 34a, 36a are preferably designed as support plates or as support plates.However, it is also conceivable that the support elements 34a, 36a have a different design, which would appear advantageous to a person skilled in the art and is suitable for laterally supporting the packaging 16a. Preferably, the support elements 34a, 36a are mounted so as to be movable translationally along the horizontal direction. The support elements 34a, 36a are preferably movable independently of the sealing tools 30a, 32a, and in particular, are movable and can be driven independently of them. The support elements 34a, 36a are preferably driven in an oscillating manner. In particular, the support elements 34a, 36a are arranged parallel to and offset from the sealing tools 30a, 32a. Preferably, the support elements 34a, 36a are arranged in front of the sealing tools 30a, 32a when viewed along the conveying direction 26a.

[0030] The support unit 42a preferably comprises at least one oscillation drive unit 64a (in ) for an oscillating drive of the support elements 34a, 36a. Fig. (2 indicated by dashed lines). The oscillation drive unit 64a can be configured as a pneumatic drive unit, a hydraulic drive unit, an electromagnetic drive unit, an electric drive unit, or the like, such as a valve-controlled pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder unit, a piezo actuator, an electric motor in combination with an oscillation gear, as is already known, for example, in hand-held power tools or medical sawing machines, in particular so-called bone saws, or the like. The oscillation drive unit 64a can be used to compact a filling material in the packaging 16a. To achieve compaction by means of the oscillation drive unit 64a, the support elements 34a, 36a are driven at a high frequency, in particular at a frequency of more than 1 Hz, preferably more than 10 Hz, and most preferably more than 100 Hz.

[0031] The deflection element 22a and / or the further deflection element 24a are, particularly in the case of at least partial or complete configuration of the deflection unit 20a by the sealing unit 14a, viewed along the conveying direction 26a of the packaging 16a or the packaging material, spatially arranged between the support element 34a, 36a, in particular the support elements 34a, 36a, and the separating element 40a. In the case of the Fig. 3a to Fig. In the alternative embodiment of the transfer unit 20a shown in dashed lines in 3d as a separate transfer unit 20a', the transfer element 22a' and / or the further transfer element 24a' are formed separately from one of the sealing tools 30a, 32a and from one of the support elements 34a, 36a and, viewed along the conveying direction 26a of the packaging 16a or the packaging material, are arranged spatially between the support elements 34a, 36a and the sealing tools 30a, 32a, wherein the transfer element 22a' and / or the further transfer element 24a' are arranged in front of the separating element 40a, viewed along the conveying direction 26a.

[0032] Fig. 3a to Fig. The 3D figures show individual steps of the folding function of the folding unit 20a or the alternative folding unit 20a' of the packaging processing device 10a. In the Fig. 3a to Fig. In the embodiment not shown with dashed lines, the sealing tools 30a, 32a preferably form the folding element 22a and the further folding element 24a. The alternative folding unit 20a' is shown in the Fig. 3a is only indicated by dashed lines, with the folding element 22a' and the further folding element 24a' being arranged in a plane of movement of the alternative folding unit 20a' running parallel to a plane of movement of the sealing tools 30a, 32a. One of the Fig. 3a to Fig. The operating principle of the transfer unit 20a described in 3d is preferably applicable in an essentially analogous manner to the alternative transfer unit 20a'.

[0033] In Fig. Figure 3a shows the sealing tools 30a, 32a and the further sealing tools 56a, 58a in a sealing position. In the sealing position, the sealing seam, in particular the transverse sealing seam 18a, is preferably produced on one side of the packaging 16a, especially on a bottom side of the packaging 16a, by means of the sealing tools 30a, 32a, wherein preferably a sealing seam, in particular the transverse sealing seam 60a, is produced on another side of the already filled packaging 16a', especially on a top side of the already filled packaging 16a' by means of the further sealing tools 56a, 58a. Preferably, the separating element 40a is provided in the sealing position of the sealing tools 30a, 32a and the further sealing tools 56a, 58a in a manner already known to a person skilled in the art to cut through the packaging material between the packaging 16a and the already filled packaging 16a'.

[0034] In Fig. Figure 3b shows the sealing tools 30a, 32a and the further sealing tools 56a, 58a in an intermediate position between the sealing position and the opening position. In this intermediate position, the sealing tools 30a, 32a preferably do not exert any sealing pressure on the transverse seal 18a of the packaging 16a or on the fin of the packaging 16a on which the transverse seal 18a is located. The transverse seal 18a or the fin is preferably located between the sealing tools 30a, 32a. The further sealing tools 56a, 58a do not exert any sealing pressure on the transverse seal 60a of the already filled packaging 16a' or on the fin of the already filled packaging 16a' on which the transverse seal 60a is located. The separating element 40a has been retracted to a starting position in which a separating edge of the separating element 40a does not extend beyond the sealing tools 30a, 32a and the further sealing tools 56a, 58a.The already filled packaging 16a' is preferably conveyed via a packaging chute 66a (see . Fig. 1) Disposable. The packaging 16a is preferably filled after the transverse seal 18a has been created using the sealing tools 30a, 32a. The filling process can also begin while the sealing tools 30a, 32a are in the sealing position (see Figure 1). Fig. 3a).

[0035] In Fig. 3c shows the sealing tools 30a, 32a and the further sealing tools 56a, 58a in the intermediate position, wherein the sealing unit 14a as a whole can be displaced along the direction 28a running transversely to the conveying direction 26a, in particular along the horizontal direction, relative to the support unit 42a and / or relative to the packaging 16a held or laterally supported by means of the support unit 42a, or wherein at least one of the sealing tools 30a, 32a can be moved from the intermediate position into the opening position, while the other of the sealing tools 30a, 32a can be moved beyond the intermediate position in the direction of the sealing tool 30a, 32a which is in or moving towards the opening position.The transverse sealing seam 18a, which is still arranged between the sealing tools 30a, 32a, is preferably foldable by the movement of the sealing unit 14a as a whole or by the individual movement of the sealing tools 30a, 32a, in particular foldable or foldable in the direction of the packaging 16a and / or attachable or sealable to the packaging 16a.

[0036] In Fig. Figure 3d shows the sealing tools 30a, 32a and the further sealing tools 56a, 58a in the open position. The support unit 42a is shown in a release position. In the release position, the support elements 34a, 36a are preferably moved apart along the direction 28a, which runs transversely to the conveying direction 26a. The support elements 34a, 36a are preferably arranged at a distance from the packaging 16a. The packaging 16a can be moved along the conveying direction 26a to allow the transverse sealing seam 60a to be created by means of the further sealing tools 56a, 58a. The packaging forming process and / or the packaging filling process can then be carried out as described in Figure 3d. Fig. 3a shown, continued or started.

[0037] Fig. Figure 5 shows a schematic process flow of a process 68a for processing, in particular for folding over, a sealing seam of the packaging 16a during the packaging forming process and / or the packaging filling process using the packaging processing device 10a. The process 68a for processing, in particular for folding over, a sealing seam of the packaging 16a or of a packaging material using a packaging processing device 10a preferably comprises a process step 70a in which the sealing seam, in particular the transverse sealing seam 18a, is produced by means of the sealing unit 14a, in particular by means of the sealing tools 30a, 32a, in particular by moving the sealing tools 30a, 32a into the sealing position. In the sealing position, the sealing tools 30a, 32a are closed and exert a force and heat on the packaging 16a, in particular on a fin of the packaging 16a.Method 68a preferably includes a process step 72a in which the sealing unit 14a is moved into the intermediate position, in particular at least the sealing tools 30a, 32a are moved into the intermediate position. The sealing tools 30a, 32a can form the folding element 22a and the further folding element 24a, or these can be independently formed. Method 68a preferably includes a process step 74a in which the sealing seam produced by sealing with the sealing unit 14a in the packaging 16a or in the packaging material, in particular the transverse sealing seam 18a produced, is folded over by a movement of at least the movably mounted folding element 22a, 24a, in particular after the sealing tools 30a, 32a have been moved relative to each other to release the sealing seam, but the sealing seam is still located between the sealing tools 30a, 32a or in the area of ​​the folding unit 20a / 20a', in particular between the folding element 22a or 24a.22a' and the further folding element 24a or 24a'. Preferably, the movement of the folding element 22a, 24a or the folding elements 22a, 24a, in particular along the direction 28a running transversely, and in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying direction 26a of the packaging 16a or the packaging material, takes place before the sealing unit 14a is fully opened. Preferably, the packaging 16a or the packaging material is held by the support unit 42a, in particular by the support elements 34a, 36a, especially laterally, during a folding of the sealing seam by means of the folding element 22a, 24a. The method 68a preferably has a method step 76a in which the sealing unit 14a, in particular at least the sealing tools 30a, 32a, are moved into the opening position.The support unit 42a can be moved into the release position in process step 76a, or the process 68a comprises a process step 78a in which the support unit 42a is moved into the release position, preferably after the sealing unit 14a has been moved into the opening position. The process 68a may include further process steps that a person skilled in the art would consider useful.

[0038] In Fig. 4a to Fig. 4c shows another embodiment. The following description of the Fig. 4a to Fig. 4c as well as the Fig. 4a to Fig. Section 4c itself is essentially limited to the differences between the embodiments, whereby with regard to identically designated components, in particular with regard to components with the same reference numerals, reference is also generally made to the drawings and / or the description of the other embodiment, in particular the Fig. 1 to Fig. 3D and Fig. 5, reference can be made. To distinguish the embodiments, the letter a is the reference numeral of the embodiment in the Fig. 1 to Fig. 3D and Fig. 5. In the exemplary embodiment of the Fig. 4a to Fig. In 4c, the letter a is replaced by the letter b.

[0039] The Fig. 4a to Fig. Figure 4c shows individual steps of a transfer function of a transfer unit 20b of a packaging processing device 10b. The packaging processing device 10b is preferably part of a packaging machine, such as this one in the Fig. Figure 1 shows the packaging processing device 10b, which is preferably designed as a seal seam folding device. The packaging processing device 10b comprises at least one sealing unit 14b, in particular a transverse seam sealing unit, for sealing a package 16b or packaging material, in particular by creating at least one transverse seal seam 18b in the package 16b or in the packaging material. The packaging processing device 10b further comprises the folding unit 20b, which includes at least one movably mounted folding element 22b, 24b, which is designed to fold over a seal seam, in particular the transverse seal seam 18b, created by sealing with the sealing unit 14b in the package 16b or in the packaging material.The packaging processing device 10b preferably comprises at least one support unit 42b, which has at least one support element 34b, 36b, in particular a movable support element, by means of which the packaging 16b or the packaging material can be laterally supported, in particular during filling and / or sealing, wherein the support element 34b, 36b can be driven in an oscillating manner. Preferably, the support unit 42b comprises two support elements 34b, 36b. The folding element 22b, 24b is preferably formed integrally with one of the support elements 34b, 36b. It is conceivable that the folding unit 20b comprises a further folding element 22b, 24b, which is formed integrally with one of the support elements 34b, 36b.

[0040] The support unit 42b preferably comprises at least one oscillation drive unit 64b for an oscillating drive of the support elements 34b, 36b. The oscillation drive unit 64b can be used to compact a filling material in the packaging 16b or to implement the folding function. To implement compaction by means of the oscillation drive unit 64b, the support elements 34b, 36b are preferably driven at a high frequency, in particular at a frequency of more than 1 Hz, preferably more than 10 Hz, and most preferably more than 100 Hz.To realize the folding function by means of the oscillation drive unit 64b, both support elements 34b, 36b are moved together from a support position of the support elements 34b 36b along a direction 28b transverse to a conveying direction 26b of the packaging 16b, in particular along a horizontal direction, and moved back into the support position before the support elements 34b, 36b release the supported packaging 16b, in particular by moving the support elements 34b, 36b in opposite directions.With reference to a work cycle of the packaging machine, the support elements 34b, 36b are moved from the support position to a lateral folding position and back again by means of the oscillation drive unit 64b, preferably at a low frequency, in particular at a frequency of less than 10 Hz, preferably less than 1 Hz and particularly preferably less than 0.1 Hz, to realize the folding function, so that one can preferably speak of an oscillating movement at a low frequency.

[0041] Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the support unit 42b, with the packaging 16b held therein, is moved as a whole relative to the sealing unit 14b along the direction 28b, which runs transversely to the conveying direction 26b of the packaging 16b, in particular along the horizontal direction, while the sealing seam is still arranged between sealing tools 30b, 32b of the sealing unit 14b (in Fig. 4b (indicated by dashed lines). The support elements 34b, 36b preferably form the folding element 22b and the further folding element 24b. Preferably, the sealing seam is guided through the sealing unit 14b, in particular through the sealing tools 30b, 32b, during a folding of the sealing seam by means of the folding element 22b and the further folding element 24b. Further steps of the folding function and / or a process for processing, in particular for folding, the sealing seam, the packaging 16b or the packaging material by means of the packaging processing device 10b are carried out / are carried out at least substantially analogously to those described in the Fig. 3a to Fig. 3D described steps as well as the one described in the description of the Fig. 5 described procedures. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] EP 0255474 A2

[0002] EP 2489284 A1

[0002]

Claims

[1] Packaging processing device, in particular sealing seam application device, for a packaging machine, in particular a vertical form-fill-seal machine, with at least one sealing unit (14), in particular a cross-seam sealing unit, for sealing a package (16) or a packaging material, in particular at least by creating a cross-seam sealing seam (18) in the package (16) or in the packaging material, characterized by at least one folding unit (20) comprising at least one movably mounted folding element (22, 24) which is designed to fold over a sealing seam, in particular the transverse sealing seam (18), produced by sealing with the sealing unit (14) in the packaging (16) or in the packaging material. [2] Packaging processing device according to claim 1, characterized by, that the transfer element (22, 24) is movably mounted along a direction (28) that runs transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to a conveying direction (26) of the packaging (16) or the packaging material. [3] Packaging processing device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the folding element (22, 24) is formed in one piece with a sealing tool (30, 32), in particular sealing jaw, the sealing unit (14) or in one piece with a support element (34, 36). [4] Packaging processing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the transfer unit (20) is formed in one piece with the sealing unit (14), wherein the sealing unit (14) as a whole is movably mounted, in particular in addition to a movement of sealing tools (30, 32) of the sealing unit (14) relative to each other to produce the sealing seam, along a direction (28) running transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to a conveying direction (26) of the packaging (16) or the packaging material. [5] Packaging processing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized byat least one separating unit (38) comprising at least one separating element (40), in particular a separating knife, which is provided for separating sealed and filled packaging from the packaging (16) or from the packaging material, and by at least one support unit (42) comprising at least one, in particular movably mounted, support element (34, 36), by means of which the packaging (16) or the packaging material can be laterally supported, in particular during filling and / or during sealing, wherein the deflecting element (22, 24), viewed along a conveying direction (26) of the packaging (16) or the packaging material, is spatially arranged between the support element (34, 36) and the separating element (40). [6] Packaging processing device at least according to the preamble of claim 1, in particular according to one of the preceding claims, characterized byat least one support unit (42) comprising at least one support element (34, 36), in particular a movable support element, by means of which the packaging (16) or the packaging material can be supported laterally, in particular during filling and / or during sealing, wherein the support element (34, 36) can be driven in an oscillating manner. [7] Packaging machine, in particular vertical form-fill-seal machine, with at least one packaging processing device according to one of the preceding claims. [8] Method for processing, in particular for folding over, a sealing seam, a package (16) or a packaging material by means of a packaging processing device, in particular by means of a packaging processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by, that a sealing seam, in particular a transverse sealing seam (18), produced in the packaging (16) or in the packaging material by sealing with a sealing unit (14) of the packaging processing device, is folded over by a movement of at least one movably mounted folding element (22, 24) of a folding unit (20) of the packaging processing device, in particular after sealing tools (30, 32) of the sealing unit (14) have been moved relative to each other to release the sealing seam. [9] Method according to claim 8, characterized by , that the movement of the deflection element (22, 24), in particular along a direction (28) running transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to a conveying direction (26) of the packaging (16) or the packaging material, takes place before the sealing unit (16) is fully opened. [10] Method according to claim 8 or 9, characterized by, that the packaging (16) or the packaging material is held, in particular laterally, by a support unit (42) of the packaging processing device during a folding over of the sealing seam by means of the folding element (22, 24).

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