Device and method for guiding a belt around packaged goods

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (1) for guiding a belt (37) around packaged goods (2), wherein the belt (37) has a front loose end (38) and a rear loose end (39), comprising a belt guide (5) for guiding the belt (37) and a conveying device (7) for extending and retracting the belt guide (5) from a starting position to at least one connection position. The belt guide (5) is extendable from the starting position below the packaged goods (2) to a deflection point (120). The device (1) is configured such that the belt guide (5) performs at least one further upward extension movement at the deflection point (120) to a height greater than the height of the packaged goods (2). A fastening device (40) is provided at a front end (5a) of the belt guide means (5), on which an end section (38a) of the front end (38) of the belt (37) can be detachably fixed in the connection position.The fastening device (40) pulls the front end (38) of the belt (37) through below the packaged goods (2) by means of an insertion movement of the belt guide means (4).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a device for guiding a belt around packaged goods according to claim 1.

[0002] The invention further relates to a method for guiding a belt around packaged goods according to claim 23.

[0003] Goods, especially items to be transported or stored, for example in the form of packages, are generally secured to pallets with a packaging band, which is hereinafter referred to as strapping band, in order to prepare them for shipment and ensure safe and damage-free transport or appropriate storage of the items.

[0004] When strapping goods, especially individual items, on pallets, it is necessary to thread the strapping through a gap between the goods and the floor on which the goods and the pallet are standing. Since strapping bands typically have a rope-like behavior, meaning they are not rigid, threading them through the gap is often problematic, particularly with longer pallets. Therefore, strapping larger items, such as parcels or individual items, is only possible with the aid of additional tools.

[0005] A device for guiding a strapping band around packaged goods is known from EP 1 053 941 B1. Further reference is made to DE 10 2012 217 805 A1, DE 103 15 530 A1, DE 10 2010 029 992 A1 and EP 3 877 267 B1 with regard to other known devices.

[0006] EP 1 053 941 B1 describes a device for strapping or rebundling a palletized load, comprising a strap guide and at least one clamping device arranged at the front end of the strap guide for clamping an initial section of the strapping band. The strap guide is designed as a rigid chain with a detachably mounted guide carriage at its front end. The carriage guides the rigid chain and the attached strapping band along the floor under the pallet. The carriage can compensate for minor irregularities in the floor, such as the pallet crossbeams.

[0007] To prevent the user from having to laboriously pick up the strapping band from the floor, the carriage has a deflection unit for the rigid chain.

[0008] The sled is designed to be detachable from the rigid chain and, together with the chain, travels a distance along the ground determined by a length limiting band.

[0009] In a predetermined position (deflection point), the carriage is held back by the length limiting strap and separated from the rigid chain, which continues to extend in a forward motion. The rigid chain is deflected by the carriage's deflection unit, preferably by approximately 90 degrees, and thus moved almost vertically upwards. The chain guide is prevented from tipping over because it is designed as a rigid chain and can therefore only tip towards the item being packaged. Tipping towards the item being packaged is prevented by the strapping band being positioned within the chain in such a way that it keeps the rigid chain under tension during the extension movement.

[0010] After the user has taken over the strapping band or after completion of the strapping process, the back-stiff chain can be retracted, whereby during its retraction movement it takes the extended carriage with it and is connected to it in the taking movement.

[0011] The device, known from the prior art, has proven itself in practice and makes it possible to strap packaged goods, especially those arranged on pallets, easily and quickly, almost regardless of the height of the packaged goods, without the operator having to bend down.

[0012] The device known from EP 1 053 941 B1 for strapping a palletized load is robust, reliable and easy to use, which proves to be particularly important for the user in daily use.

[0013] The mobile strapping device described above according to EP 1 053 941 B1 and also the further development of this device according to EP 3 877 267 B1, which enables a higher strapping speed and optimizes the determination of the deflection point, have proven to be particularly suitable for strapping the goods, preferably lying on a pallet, with a strapping band or a packaging band, thus achieving simple and efficient load securing.

[0014] The strapping bands or packaging straps used for strapping are not reusable and are generally made of plastic. As the strapping guide extends, the strapping bands or packaging straps are unwound from a supply roll. After the guide has wrapped the strapping band around the packaged goods as described above, the leading end of the strapping band is tensioned with a section of the strapping band still connected to the remaining portion on the supply roll and then preferably welded. Behind the weld, the strapping band is cut, thus severing the connection to the remaining portion on the supply roll. The resulting exposed leading end of the strapping band can then be used for another strapping operation.

[0015] The aforementioned devices, known from the prior art, have proven to be very advantageous, particularly for enabling mobile strapping of packaged goods.

[0016] Furthermore, fully automatic, stationary strapping systems are known from the prior art, in which the goods to be strapped are fed to the strapping system, e.g., by means of a conveyor belt. The strapping system typically has a channel that surrounds the goods, with the strapping band being shot through the channel from the supply roll and then automatically tensioned, welded, and cut.

[0017] It has become apparent that, in addition to the aforementioned devices for strapping goods with strapping or packaging tape, there is also a need to secure goods, especially those on pallets, with reusable or multi-use tape, for example, to transport goods or items within a company. For this purpose, tapes with a defined length, i.e., two loose ends, are used – meaning tapes that are not "endless" from a supply roll. Such tapes are subsequently referred to as webbing straps. One end of the webbing strap is threaded by hand underneath the goods, usually through a gap provided by the pallet between the pallet and the goods. At the other end of the pallet, the threaded end of the webbing strap is then picked up, placed over the goods, and / or secured.thrown to guide the front end of the webbing back to the side of the pallet from which it was passed underneath.

[0018] The front end of the webbing is then tensioned with the rear end of the webbing, often using a ratchet, a webbing tensioner, a turnbuckle, a buckle or a Velcro fastener, preferably in conjunction with a metal loop at the rear end of the webbing.

[0019] The advantage of this solution is that a reusable or multi-use strap (hereinafter referred to uniformly as multi-use strap) can be used. The strap can be released, for example via a ratchet mechanism, a turnbuckle, a buckle, or a hook-and-loop fastener, once the pallet or packaged goods have arrived at their destination or securing them is no longer necessary. This eliminates the packaging waste typically generated when goods are strapped with strapping from a stock roll.

[0020] A disadvantage is that the process of strapping the packaged goods using a reusable webbing strap is time-consuming and laborious, and puts a strain on the operator's back in the long run.

[0021] The known mobile strapping devices, fully automatic strapping systems, and known procedures for unwinding strapping from a supply roll and guiding it around the packaged goods are not suitable for reusable strapping that has two loose ends, i.e., where both ends are loose and which features a reusable locking mechanism for joining the loose ends. Due to the greater weight and / or dimensions of the strapping, it is unsuitable for use with known mobile strapping devices or fully automatic strapping systems where the strapping is fed through a channel around the packaged goods.

[0022] The present invention is based on the objective of creating a device, in particular a mobile device, for guiding a belt around packaged goods, which largely reduces the manual activities of the operator.

[0023] The present invention further aims to create a method for guiding a belt around packaged goods, which largely reduces the manual activities of the operator.

[0024] According to the invention, this problem is solved with regard to the device by the features of claim 1 and with regard to the method by the features of claim 23.

[0025] Within the scope of the invention, it was recognized that the devices and methods known from the prior art for mobile strapping of packaged goods with a strapping band or a packaging band can also be used to guide a band around packaged goods that are not disposable strapping or packaging bands, if the previous process intended for strapping is reversed or if the device or method is modified accordingly.

[0026] The device according to the invention for guiding a belt around packaged goods, wherein the belt has a front loose end and a rear loose end, comprises a belt guide for guiding the belt and a conveying device for extending and retracting the belt guide from a starting position to at least one connection position. The belt guide can be extended from the starting position below the packaged goods to a deflection point. The device is configured such that the belt guide performs at least one further upward extension movement at the deflection point to a height greater than the height of the packaged goods. A fastening device is provided at a front end of the belt guide, to which an end section of the front end of the belt can be detachably fixed in the connection position.The fastening device pulls the front end of the belt through beneath the packaged goods by means of a retraction movement of the belt guide.

[0027] Because the device according to the invention has a fastening device on which an end section of the front end of the belt can be detachably fixed in the connection position, the belt guiding means, when it is retracted by means of the conveying device or when the belt guiding means performs a retraction movement, can take the front end of the belt with it and thereby guide it around the packaged goods or at least pull it under the packaged goods.

[0028] The fastening device is designed or configured to fasten a strap and to pull it along during the insertion movement of the strap guide, in particular to pull it underneath the packaged goods.

[0029] The fastening device is preferably provided in addition to a clamping device for a strapping band, so that the device is also suitable to guide a strapping band around the packaged goods or to strap them in a known manner by means of an extension movement of the band guide means.

[0030] It has been shown that with the devices known from EP 1 053 941 B1 and in particular EP 3 877 267 B1, a belt with two loose ends can be guided around the packaged goods by not guiding the belt around the packaged goods when the conveyor extends, but rather when retracting or during the insertion movement of the belt guide. For this purpose, the respective device is provided with a fastening device to which the belt can be fixed in the connected position.

[0031] The device according to the invention is particularly suitable for guiding a belt around packaged goods which are arranged on a pallet; however, the device according to the invention is not limited to this, it is sufficient if there is a gap below the packaged goods which makes it possible to pass the belt guiding means and thus also the belt.

[0032] The connection position, where a front section of the belt can be fixed to the fastening device, can be located at the end of the upward extension movement. However, it can also be provided, preferably as described below, that the belt guide extends further after the upward extension movement, particularly to bring the front end of the belt guide, and thus the fastening device, closer to the side of the pallet or packaged goods from which the belt guide was extended in the starting position, or where the operator is located. This facilitates the fastening of the end section of the front end of the belt to the fastening device and further improves the belt's guidance around the packaged goods.

[0033] The connection position is preferably located at the end of the extension movement of the belt guide or at the end of the extension movement of the belt guide that is intended to guide the belt around the specific packaged goods.

[0034] The device according to the invention is preferably designed as a mobile device, such that the device is mobile or movable, in particular movable towards the packaged goods, preferably by having rollers or other means of locomotion.

[0035] Preferably, the device comprises a housing that accommodates at least the conveying mechanism for extending and retracting the belt guide. The housing is preferably designed such that it completely, or at least largely, accommodates the belt guide in the starting position. The device preferably includes a control unit, which is preferably fixed to the housing. The control unit preferably comprises an operating unit and / or a screen, in particular a touchscreen.

[0036] It is advantageous if the housing is equipped with wheels, so that the device is mobile or can be moved.

[0037] The belt that wraps around the packaged goods can be provided independently of the device. However, the belt can also be part of the device.

[0038] The feature that the strap has a front loose end and a rear loose end does not mean that the rear loose end is actually free; within the scope of the invention, it is sufficient if the rear loose end does not adhere to anything or is not connected to another section of the strap, i.e., the strap has two ends, in contrast to classic strapping bands, which are unwound from a supply roll for strapping goods and thus only have a front loose end.

[0039] The device according to the invention preferably includes a distance measuring device, for example a laser distance meter or a laser that projects a line onto the floor, so that the device can be positioned at a defined distance from the packaged goods.

[0040] The device according to the invention preferably has a magazine, a compartment or a storage area, which is preferably connected to a housing of the device, such that a plurality of tapes can be stored in the magazine.

[0041] The belt guide of the device according to the invention is preferably designed as a back-rigid belt guide, in particular as a back-rigid chain, as described in EP 1 053 941 B1 or EP 3 877 267 B1. However, the belt guide can also be designed differently. The belt guide is preferably designed such that it can only tilt towards the packaged goods, as described in EP 1 053 941 B1 or EP 3 877 267 B1.

[0042] The extension of the belt guide to a deflection point is preferably achieved as described in EP 1 053 941 B1 and EP 3 877 267 B1. Preferably, the deflection point is set by a length-limiting belt or another length-limiting device, e.g., a length-limiting chain. However, it is also possible to define the deflection point using a motor brake or other electronic means. In the device according to the invention, the deflection point can preferably be set according to the dimensions of the packaged goods or the pallet under which the belt is to be guided. Various methods for this are known from the prior art.

[0043] According to the invention, it can be provided that, after the upward extension movement, the belt guiding means performs a further extension movement above the packaged goods in the direction of the side of the packaged goods on which the belt guiding means is located in the starting position.

[0044] It has proven advantageous if the extension movement also includes an extension movement above the packaged goods in the direction of the side of the packaged goods where the belt guide is located in the starting position. This facilitates the securing of the end section of the front end of the belt to the fastening device formed at the front end of the belt guide. In particular, it can be provided that the connection position in which the end section of the front end of the belt is secured to the fastening device is located above the packaged goods at the end of the extension movement of the belt guide, especially in a position where the front end of the belt guide has completely passed over the packaged goods and is again located on the side of the packaged goods where the belt guide is in the starting position.

[0045] Within the scope of the invention, the extension movement of the belt guide from the starting position below the packaged goods to the deflection point can be described as an extension movement in a first direction. The extension movement of the front end of the belt guide after the upward extension movement above the packaged goods, in the direction of the side of the packaged goods where the belt guide is located in the starting position, can be described as an extension movement in the opposite direction.

[0046] According to the invention, it can further be provided that the belt guiding means, after the belt guiding means has moved above the packaged goods, performs a further downward extension movement.

[0047] Particularly with tall packages, it has proven advantageous if the belt guide, after passing over the package above it, performs a further downward extension movement. This allows the operator easy and effortless access to the fastening device at the front end of the belt guide to detachably secure the end section of the belt.

[0048] According to the invention, it can further be provided that, after the front end of the belt has been pulled under the packaged goods by an insertion movement of the belt guiding means, the belt guide performs an upward extension movement in order to lift the fastening device and the end section of the belt attached thereto.

[0049] It has proven particularly advantageous if the belt guide performs an upward extension movement after the front end of the belt has been pulled under the packaged goods. In principle, the operator could, after the front end of the belt has been pulled under the packaged goods, remove the front end of the belt from the belt guide, particularly to connect the front end of the belt to the rear end and thus secure the packaged goods. However, this would generally require the operator to bend down. To avoid bending, it has proven advantageous for the belt guide to perform an upward extension movement, similar to that at the deflection point, so that the front end of the belt is brought towards the operator, preferably without the operator having to bend down.The belt guide thus performs an upward extension movement between the packaged goods and the device or a housing of the device. This can be electronically controlled or integrated into the process. After the belt guide has completed its upward extension movement and the operator has grasped the front end of the belt or released it from the fastening device, the belt guide can be retracted and, in particular, return to its starting position.

[0050] The front end of the strap can also be lifted in other ways if necessary, for example with the aid of a bracket, a gripping device or the like.

[0051] It is advantageous if a belt holder is provided and the belt can be arranged on the belt holder in such a way that the belt can be extended during the insertion movement of the belt guide.

[0052] It has proven advantageous if the device according to the invention has a band holder, preferably such that a band can be arranged on it.

[0053] It is advantageous if the tape holder is designed to unwind a tape designed as a tape roll.

[0054] It is advantageous if the strap has a length that preferably corresponds at least approximately to the length necessary to completely wrap around the packaged goods and to allow the two ends of the strap to be joined together. This is preferably achieved by having a strap length of 3 meters, 4 meters, 5 meters, 6 meters, 7 meters, 8 meters, 9 meters, or 10 meters. The straps preferably have a length between 3 and 8 meters, particularly between 4 and 7 meters. Preferably, the strap is supplied as a roll. Preferably, the device comprises a plurality of straps of different lengths.

[0055] It has been shown that tape rollers are particularly suitable for the device according to the invention or as part of the device according to the invention.

[0056] According to the invention, the fastening device can be formed integrally or permanently connected with the belt guide or detachably connected to it.

[0057] It has proven suitable if the fastening device is formed integrally with the belt guide or the front end of the belt guide. It has also proven advantageous if the fastening device can be firmly connected to the belt guide; for this purpose, an additional connecting element may optionally be provided, which establishes a connection between the front end of the belt guide and the fastening device, for example, also enabling a hinged connection.

[0058] According to the invention, the fastening device can also be detachably connected to the band guide. This makes it advantageously possible to use the device according to the invention both for guiding a reusable band around packaged goods and conventionally for strapping with a strapping or packaging band.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment of the belt guide as a rigid chain, the fastening device can be part of the rigid chain or permanently connected to it. However, it is also possible for the fastening device to be detachably connected to the rigid chain.

[0060] According to the invention, it can further be provided that the fastening device is designed for a force-fit and / or form-fit connection with the end section of the front end of the band.

[0061] It has proven particularly suitable if the fastening device can be connected to the end section of the front end of the band by means of a force-fit and / or form-fit connection, i.e., if the fastening device and / or the end section of the band are designed to enable a force-fit and / or form-fit connection. In particular, a purely force-fit connection, a purely form-fit connection, or a combination of a force-fit and form-fit connection is possible.

[0062] Preferably, the connection should be easily detachable for the operator, particularly when the belt is completely wrapped around the packaged goods. Preferably, however, the connection should be sufficiently stable to withstand the tensile forces exerted when the belt is wrapped around the packaged goods, preventing it from detaching spontaneously. It may be advantageous if the connection is designed to detach automatically upon reaching defined tensile forces, particularly to prevent malfunctions.

[0063] The fastening device and the end section of the front strap are preferably designed to establish a corresponding connection. In particular, it can be provided that the fastening device and the end section of the front end of the strap have specific features, for example, including mechanical and / or magnetic coding, so that only appropriately equipped straps can be connected to the fastening device.

[0064] In general, the fastening device serves to receive the belt, in particular the end section of the front end of the belt, preferably directly the end of the belt, or to fasten it in such a way that when the belt guide means is inserted, the belt can be pulled over the packaged goods.

[0065] According to the invention, it can further be provided that the fastening device and the end section of the front end of the band have complementary first and second connecting elements, preferably to form a force-fit and / or form-fit connection.

[0066] The connecting elements preferably have positive and negative shapes that are coordinated with each other.

[0067] It has proven particularly suitable if both the fastening device and the end section of the front end of the band have complementary connecting elements. These connecting elements can also have a magnetic or mechanical coding.

[0068] Mechanical coding can be achieved, for example, by giving the connecting elements specific geometric contours, such as a recess with a specific, preferably asymmetrical shape, into which a correspondingly shaped projection is inserted. This ensures that only two connecting elements with such a specific shape can be joined together.

[0069] Magnetic coding can be achieved, for example, by having each connecting element have a plurality of magnets. In this case, a magnet from one connecting element forms a magnet pair with an oppositely oriented magnet from the other connecting element, meaning that a north pole faces a south pole and the magnets of the magnet pair therefore attract each other.

[0070] Preferably, each connecting element has differently oriented magnets, so that a connection with one connecting element is only possible if the other connecting element has correspondingly complementary oriented magnets. For example, the first connecting element can have two magnets, one oriented such that its north pole is part of the contact surface and the other such that its south pole is part of the contact surface (preferably a third, fourth, or further corresponding magnets are also provided). This ensures that only a connecting element in which the magnets are arranged in a corresponding manner and oriented complementarily with respect to their magnetization can be reliably connected.

[0071] According to the invention, it can further be provided that the first connecting elements are designed as projections, pins or ridges and the second connecting elements as holes, recesses or indentations complementary to these.

[0072] Such a design, possibly in conjunction with magnets, has proven to be particularly suitable.

[0073] It may also be provided, in particular, that the fastening device and, accordingly, the end section of the front end of the band each have several connecting elements, for example, two or more than two first connecting elements and, accordingly, two or more than two second connecting elements, for example, two projections and, complementarily, two holes, two recesses or two notches.

[0074] Furthermore, it is possible that the fastening device or the end section of the front end of the band has several differently designed connecting elements; for example, the fastening device may have one or more connecting elements designed as projections and one or more connecting elements designed as recesses. The end section of the front end of the band can be designed to complement these, resulting in a mechanical coding. Alternatively or additionally, the use of magnets is also possible.

[0075] According to the invention, it can further be provided that the first and second connecting elements form a hook and loop connection with each other, wherein preferably the first connecting element has barbs and the second connecting element has loops.

[0076] This type of design has proven to be particularly suitable.

[0077] In principle, the connecting links can be designed to form a hook-and-loop fastener, be clipped together, be magnetically connected using magnets, have or form snap fasteners, or enable a clamping connection, whereby both the end section of the strap can be clamped into the fastening device and vice versa. Furthermore, the first and second connecting links can be designed as spring tensioners or enable a corresponding connection.

[0078] Combinations of the aforementioned connection options are also possible.

[0079] According to the invention, it can further be provided that the end section of the front end of the band and an end section of the rear end of the band are designed in such a way that they can be detachably closed together, preferably repeatedly closed together.

[0080] It has proven particularly suitable if the end sections of the strap can be detachably connected or sealed together, so that the end section of the front end of the strap, after it has been wrapped around the packaged goods, can be sealed or connected to the end section of the rear end of the strap. The end sections of the strap are preferably designed in such a way that the strap can be used multiple times, i.e., that the connection between the end sections can be opened and closed repeatedly. This is in contrast to conventional strapping or packaging straps, which only allow a single connection and are usually welded together for this purpose.

[0081] According to the invention, it can further be provided that the band is a textile band and / or a webbing band and / or that the band is reusable.

[0082] Designing the strap as a webbing, preferably made of a textile material and preferably such that the strap is reusable, has proven particularly suitable. The length of the strap is preferably at least 3 meters, more preferably at least 4 meters. The length of the strap is preferably at most 12 meters, more preferably at most 10 meters, even more preferably at most 8 meters, and most preferably at most 7 meters. Straps with a length of 3 meters, preferably 4 meters to 10 meters, and preferably up to 7 meters have proven particularly suitable for use together with the device or as part of the device.

[0083] It has proven particularly suitable if a first number of bands has a specific length between 3 and 12 meters, and a second number of bands is 20 cm to 100 cm, preferably 50 cm to 100 cm, and especially 100 cm longer or shorter than the first number of bands. A third number of bands, if provided, can then differ accordingly from the second number of bands. The same applies to a fourth number of bands, which can differ accordingly from the third number of bands, and so on.It has proven particularly advantageous if a first set of belts has a length of 4 meters, a second set of belts a length of 5 meters, a third set of belts a length of 6 meters, and a fourth set of belts a length of 7 meters. Further belt types may be provided, particularly those with lengths in the range of 3 to 12 meters, for example, 3 meters, 4 meters, 5 meters, 6 meters, 7 meters, 8 meters, 9 meters, 10 meters, 11 meters, and 12 meters. Preferably, the belts of different lengths are each of different colors, for example, a 5-meter belt is green and a 6-meter belt is blue, so that operators can quickly and easily select a belt of a suitable length depending on the size of the package.Preferably, a display on the device indicates which belt (length and / or color) should be used for the specific packaged goods.

[0084] According to the invention, the device may have a control unit with which the length of the packaged goods to be strapped can be set or detected, for example a length of 4 meters, and the control unit or the software then suggests a strap of a suitable length, in particular a strap of a suitable color, which represents the suitable length.

[0085] A hook-and-loop fastener can be particularly suitable for joining the end sections of the straps, especially if the fastener extends over a suitable length of the end sections, preferably such that the end sections can be joined together with an overlap of at least 20 cm. It is also possible that only one end section, preferably the front end section, has a hook-and-loop fastener, and the other end section has a loop, e.g., a metal loop, through which the end section with the hook-and-loop fastener can be threaded and, after being threaded through, deflected and thus connected to itself using the hook-and-loop fastener.

[0086] The straps, preferably webbing made of a textile material, preferably have a width of at least 10 mm, more preferably at least 20 mm, more preferably at least 30 mm, and even more preferably at least 40 mm, and in particular at least 50 mm. The width of the straps is preferably at most 150 mm, more preferably at most 120 mm, in particular at most 100 mm, and more preferably at most 80 mm. Widths in the range of 30 mm to 80 mm have proven particularly suitable. The thickness of the straps is preferably at least 1 mm, more preferably at least 1.2 mm, more preferably at least 1.4 mm, more preferably at least 1.8 mm, most preferably at least 2.0 mm, more preferably at least 2.2 mm, in particular at least 2.5 mm, and more preferably at least 2.9 mm.

[0087] The bands in a set of bands, as described above, have different lengths, but preferably the same width and thickness.

[0088] According to the invention, a magazine for holding a plurality of tapes, preferably in the form of tape rolls, can also be provided.

[0089] The magazine is preferably connected to or integrated into the housing of the device. Preferably, the magazine is detachably connected to the housing or the device. The magazine is preferably lockable to prevent unauthorized removal of the tapes, particularly the tape rolls. The magazine may have prongs or rods onto which the tapes, preferably tape rolls, preferably sorted by length or color, can be attached. The device may be provided with multiple magazines, preferably detachable ones.

[0090] According to the invention, it may further be provided that a device for winding up already used tapes is provided, wherein the device has a receptacle for hooking the rear loose end of the tape and a drive for winding up the tape.

[0091] It has proven particularly suitable if the device includes a mechanism for winding up used tapes, allowing them to be rewound or rewound for reuse. This winding mechanism can include a receptacle for hooking the loose rear end of the tape and a drive mechanism for winding the tape. The winding mechanism can be a separate unit. Power can be supplied via a battery or a cable. The device housing can be designed to accommodate a cable or cable connection integrated within the housing. The housing can also be designed to allow charging of the battery within the housing.Furthermore, the housing can be designed in such a way that it has a bracket to attach the winding device to the housing when it is not needed or is being charged.

[0092] The winding mechanism can also be permanently installed on the housing of the device.

[0093] The winding device can include an enclosed electric motor. It can also include a push button for operation, preferably with a deadman's switch for safety reasons. Furthermore, the winding device can be designed such that the tape is wound up via a rotary movement of the drive. The winding device can also be designed such that the direction of rotation of the drive motor is predetermined.

[0094] The winding device and the tape holder for unwinding can be implemented in one component or designed as a component that is suitable for both winding and unwinding the tape.

[0095] According to the invention, stabilizing elements may also be provided which stabilize the belt guiding means at least section by section in such a way that a tilting movement of the belt guiding means in the direction of the packaged goods is at least slowed down and / or inhibited.

[0096] It has proven particularly suitable when stabilizing elements are provided that prevent the strap guide, especially when designed as a rigid chain, from tipping uncontrollably towards the packaged goods, as described in EP 3 877 267 B1 and EP 1 053 941 B1. In known mobile strapping devices, it is provided and also desirable that the front section of the strap guide, in particular, can perform a tipping movement towards the packaged goods (as described above). This tipping movement is dampened by the strapping band when the strap guide is extended. Since no strapping band is carried in the device according to the invention, the stabilization provided by the strapping band is eliminated.While it would be possible, in principle, to carry the strapping band along for this purpose and then rewind it onto a supply reel when the strapping guide is retracted, it has proven advantageous to stabilize the strapping guide, particularly the links of a rigid chain, in another way. This prevents any tilting movement of the strapping guide, especially its front end, towards the packaged goods, at least from being slowed down or prevented. Fiberglass or carbon fiber rods can preferably be used for this purpose, stiffening the strapping guide or the rigid chain. It is also possible to clip spring elements, at least partially, between individual links of the strapping guide, particularly the chain links of the rigid chain.The spring elements can preferably be made of plastic, such that the individual links of the belt guide, in particular the individual chain links of a rigid chain, are stabilized. It is also conceivable that the stabilizing elements are designed as rubber bands. This also allows a tilting movement of the belt guide towards the packaged goods to be at least slowed down and / or inhibited. It should be noted that at the deflection point, or also when the upward extension movement ends and transitions into a horizontal movement, a tilting of the front end of the belt guide towards the packaged goods is desirable. The stabilizing elements should only slow down and / or inhibit this tilting movement towards the packaged goods.

[0097] The stabilizing elements serve to stiffen the belt guide or to increase its stiffness.

[0098] The springs or plastic springs can preferably be clipped between individual links of the belt guide, in particular between individual links of the back-stiffening chain, so that each link of the belt guide or link of the chain is stiffened to the next link, whereby it may be sufficient if a part of the links of the belt guide or the back-stiffening chain are connected to each other in this way.

[0099] According to the invention, a guide carriage can be provided which, together with the belt guiding means, can be extended below the packaged goods up to a deflection point, wherein an adjustment device is provided to set a target extension length of the guide carriage up to the deflection point, wherein the guide carriage has a deflection unit which is able to deflect the belt guiding means at the deflection point.

[0100] The design of the device according to the invention with a guide carriage and an adjustment device has proven to be particularly suitable. A particularly advantageous implementation of a guide carriage and / or an adjustment device is described in EP 3 877 267 B1.

[0101] The present invention also relates to a belt for a device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the belt has a front loose end and a rear loose end, wherein the front loose end of the belt, which is free in the wound-up state of the belt, has an end section, wherein the fastening device provided at the front end of the belt guiding means and the end section of the front end of the belt have mutually complementary first and second connecting elements to form a force-fit and / or form-fit connection.

[0102] It has been shown that such a band is particularly suitable for the device according to the invention, or as part of the device according to the invention, or for use within the framework of the device according to the invention.

[0103] Preferably, the tape is formed as a roll before unwinding. However, the tape can also be in a loop or other form.

[0104] It is advantageous if the band is a textile band and / or the band is a webbing band and / or the band has a turnbuckle and / or the band has a buckle and / or the band is reusable and / or the end section of the front end of the band and an end section of the rear end of the band are designed in such a way that they can be detachably closed together, preferably repeatedly closed together and / or the first connecting elements are designed as projections, pins or ridges and the second connecting elements as complementary holes, recesses or notches and / or the first and second connecting elements form a hook and loop connection with each other, wherein preferably the first connecting element has barbs and the second connecting element has loops.

[0105] Regarding further advantageous embodiments of the band, reference is made to the further explanations concerning the band within the framework of the device according to the invention.

[0106] The present invention also relates to a set of belts for a device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the set of belts comprises at least a first number of belts of a first length and a second number of belts of a second length, wherein the belts each have a front loose end and a rear loose end, wherein the front loose end of each belt, which is free in the wound-up state of the belt, has an end section, wherein the fastening device provided at the front end of the belt guiding means and the end section of the front end of the belt have mutually complementary first and second connecting elements to form a force-fit and / or form-fit connection.

[0107] Such a set of bands has proven to be particularly suitable for the device according to the invention. The set of bands can also be part of the device according to the invention or be used for it.

[0108] The strips in the set of strips are preferably designed as strip rolls before being unwound.

[0109] It is advantageous if the first set of bands is a different color than the second set. If a third set, a fourth set, etc., of bands is provided, these should also preferably be different colors, so that the color of the bands indicates their length.

[0110] Regarding further advantageous designs of the bands, reference is made to the preceding and following explanations concerning the band.

[0111] The invention further relates to a device for winding up tapes for a device according to one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the device has a receptacle for the rear loose end of the tape and a drive for winding up the tape.

[0112] Such a device has proven particularly suitable for (re)winding tapes, especially previously used tapes, that have been inserted into the apparatus. The device can also be part of the apparatus or used accordingly within the apparatus. The device can be a separate unit. However, it can also be permanently connected to or installed in the housing of the apparatus according to the invention. The device preferably comprises an enclosed electric motor and a push button for actuation, preferably with a dead man's switch for safety reasons. The device is preferably designed such that the tape is wound up by a rotary movement of the drive. The direction of rotation of the drive motor is preferably predetermined.Preferably, the device is battery-operated; however, a cable connection can also be provided to ensure the power supply. Preferably, a cable connection is provided to the device according to the invention or to the housing of the device according to the invention. Furthermore, if the device has a battery, the device according to the invention or the housing of the device according to the invention can have a charging station for the battery such that the removed battery can be inserted or the entire device can be inserted into the charging station.

[0113] The receptacle for the rear loose end can be designed in such a way that the rear loose end of the strap can be hooked in or attached.

[0114] It may also be provided that the device according to the invention or a housing of the device according to the invention has a holder which is suitable for receiving the winding device.

[0115] The present invention also relates to a magazine for holding a plurality of tapes, preferably in the form of tape rolls, for a device according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

[0116] It has proven advantageous if the tapes, particularly in the form of tape rolls, are held in a magazine that is preferably detachably connected to a housing or the device. For advantageous embodiments, reference is made to the preceding and following descriptions of the magazine.

[0117] The present invention also relates to a method for guiding a belt around packaged goods, wherein the belt has a front loose end and a rear loose end.According to the invention, a belt guide is extended from a starting position at least to a connection position by means of a conveyor device for guiding the belt. The belt guide is then moved from the starting position below the packaged goods and extended to a deflection point. At the deflection point, the belt guide is deflected in such a way that it performs an upward extension movement to a height greater than the height of the packaged goods. Once the belt guide has been extended to the connection position, an end section of the front end of the belt is detachably fixed to a front end of the belt guide. The belt guide is then retracted by means of the conveyor device in such a way that the front end of the belt is pulled through below the packaged goods by the retraction movement of the belt guide.

[0118] The inventive method allows belts, particularly reusable belts, especially webbing, with a defined length or two loose ends to be guided around the packaged goods in a particularly advantageous manner. After the belt guide is extended from its starting position below the packaged goods and deflected upwards at the deflection point, such that it performs an upward extension movement to a height greater than the height of the packaged goods, a section of the front end of the belt can be detachably fixed to the front end of the belt guide once it has reached the connection position. The belt guide is then retracted by the conveying device such that the front end of the belt is pulled through below the packaged goods by the retraction movement of the belt guide.The belt is thus automatically guided around the packaged goods, significantly reducing the operator's workload. After the front end of the belt has been pulled under the packaged goods by the belt guide's insertion movement, an operator can grasp the front end or receive it from the belt guide.

[0119] In a particularly simple embodiment of the invention, the connection position can be located at the end of the upward extension movement of the belt guide. This avoids the need for the operator to bend down to guide the belt under the packaged goods. In this case, however, the operator must move from the side of the packaged goods or pallet where the starting position of the belt guide is located to the front end of the belt guide in order to then secure the end section of the front end of the belt.

[0120] It is advantageous if, after the upward extension movement, the belt guide performs a further extension movement above the packaged goods in the direction of the side of the packaged goods on which the belt guide is located in the starting position.

[0121] This further movement of the belt guide above the packaged goods brings the front end of the belt guide closer to the operator, who is typically located on the side of the packaged goods where the belt guide is in its starting position. The operator can then relatively easily connect the end of the belt to the front end of the belt guide. The connection point is thus located at the position the belt guide reaches after the further extension movement above the packaged goods has ended.

[0122] It should be noted that the belt guide could be extended further forward after the belt has been fixed, or that it would be possible in principle to extend the belt guide further forward.

[0123] It can also be advantageous if the belt guide, after having passed over the packaged goods above them, performs a further downward extension movement.

[0124] A further downward extension movement can be advantageous so that the operator, especially when the packaged goods are particularly tall, does not have to stretch to reach the front end of the belt guide in order to hook the end section of the belt's front end. If the belt guide performs a further downward extension movement as described above, the connection position is preferably located at the end of this further downward extension movement.

[0125] According to the invention, it can further be provided that the belt guiding means, after the front end of the belt has been pulled under the packaged goods by an insertion movement of the belt guiding means, performs an upward extension movement.

[0126] It has proven particularly advantageous if, after the front end of the belt has been pulled under the packaged goods, the belt guide performs an upward extension movement, so that the front end of the belt guide moves upwards and thus also moves the front end of the belt, which is fixed there, upwards. The operator can therefore reach the front end of the belt, preferably without bending over. The front end of the belt guide is thus moved upwards between a housing of the device according to the invention and the packaged goods.

[0127] According to the invention, it can further be provided that the end section of the front end of the belt, after the front end of the belt has been pulled under the packaged goods, is detachably connected to an end section of the rear end of the belt.

[0128] A design of the strap such that the two end sections of the strap can be connected to each other, preferably by means of a force-fit and / or form-fit connection, in particular by means of a hook-and-loop fastener, has proven to be particularly suitable. Preferably, the force-fit and / or form-fit connecting elements, in particular the hook-and-loop fastener, are formed over a defined length, preferably at least 20 cm over the length of at least one of the end sections, so that the length of the strap can be varied accordingly and the goods to be secured can be lashed down accordingly.

[0129] It is advantageous if the belt is provided as a belt roll, whereby the belt is unwound during the insertion movement of the belt guide.

[0130] Within the scope of the invention, the term "band" is to be understood as also including a reusable cord or a reusable chain.

[0131] The tape, in particular the webbing, can be a hook-and-loop fastener. The tape is specifically a reusable tape, for example, a tape used to secure cargo in trucks.

[0132] The strap can preferably be designed in such a way that it can be fastened with a Velcro fastener to secure the packaged goods.

[0133] The connection between the belt and the fastening device or the front end of the belt guide can also be made by clamping.

[0134] According to the invention, it can be provided that, based on the length that the belt guiding means is extended to the connection position, a control device determines or suggests a belt or the length of the belt whose front end is fixed to the belt guiding means.

[0135] It has proven particularly advantageous if a control device, based on the extension of the belt guide, determines or suggests a specific belt or belt type, especially with a specific length, which is then used to connect to the front end of the belt guide. This ensures that the belt guided around the packaged goods is of the appropriate length. It can be advantageous if, as an alternative or supplement to specifying the required belt length, the control device suggests or displays a belt color, particularly when a set of belts is available, where each belt of a specific color has a specific length. This allows the operator to easily select a suitable belt based on its color.

[0136] According to the invention, the device may be designed to select or determine a band.

[0137] For further advantageous embodiments of the method, reference is made to the description of the device according to the invention.

[0138] The present invention also relates to a computer program product with program code means for carrying out a method according to one of claims 23 to 29 when the program is executed on a control device of a device for guiding a belt around packaged goods according to one of claims 1 to 16.

[0139] Advantageous further training and design options result from the dependent requirements and the following explanations.

[0140] Features already described in connection with one of the objects of the present invention, namely the device, method, tape, set of tapes, winding device, and computer program, can also be advantageously implemented for the other objects of the invention. Furthermore, advantages already mentioned in connection with one of the objects of the present invention can also be understood as relating to the other objects of the invention.

[0141] The figures each show preferred embodiments in which individual features of the present invention are combined with one another. The features of one embodiment can also be implemented independently of the other features of the same embodiment and can accordingly be combined by a person skilled in the art to form further meaningful combinations with features of other embodiments.

[0142] It shows: Fig. 1 a strapping device as known from the prior art; Fig. 2 a perspective view of a section through a strapping device known from the prior art in a normal position of the guide carriage before reaching a deflection point; Fig. 3 a strapping device as known from the prior art, in a further sectional view in a normal position of the guide carriage before reaching the deflection point; Fig. 4 a representation according to Fig. 3, wherein the guide carriage has reached the deflection point and a deflection unit of the guide carriage is deflected upwards by approximately 90 degrees; Fig. 5 a schematic representation of a device according to the invention, wherein the belt guiding means is in a starting position which in this embodiment corresponds to a position fully retracted into a housing of the device according to the invention; Fig. 6 a schematic representation of the device according to the invention and of a packaged item, wherein a front end of the belt guide means is extended from a housing of the device, but is not yet passed under the packaged item; Fig. 7 a representation according to Fig. 6, wherein a front end of the belt guiding means is extended below the packaged goods to a deflection point and deflected there; Fig. 8 a representation according to Fig. 7, wherein a front end of the belt guiding means, after the upward extension movement, has performed a further extension movement above the packaged goods in the direction of the side of the packaged goods on which the belt guiding means is located in the starting position; Fig. 9 a representation according to Fig. 8, wherein the front end of the belt guide is extended above the packaged goods to the side of the packaged goods on which the belt guide is located in the starting position; Fig. 10 a representation according to Fig. 9, wherein an end section of the front end of the belt is fixed to a front end of the belt guiding means, in particular a fastening device arranged therein; Fig. 11 a representation according to Fig. 10, wherein by means of an insertion movement of the belt guiding means the front end of the belt is pulled under the packaged goods, wherein the front end of the belt guiding means or the front end of the belt is located between the packaged goods and a housing of the device; Fig. 12 a representation according to Fig. 11, wherein the belt guiding means has performed an upward extension movement to transport the front end of the belt upwards between the packaged goods and a housing of the device; and Fig. 13 a representation according to Fig. 12, wherein the end sections of the belt are connected to each other and the belt guide is in a starting position which is essentially the same as the starting position or can be regarded as the starting position.

[0143] In the Fig. Figures 1 to 4 show mobile strapping devices 1' known from the prior art, which, with appropriate modification or operation, and in particular without a strapping band, are suitable as a basis for the device according to the invention or for carrying out the method according to the invention. The functioning of such a strapping device 1' is described below with reference to the Fig. 1 to 4 are described. Reference is also made to EP 3 877 267 B1 and EP 1 053 941 B1.

[0144] It should be noted that the embodiment of the device 1 according to the invention is not limited to devices 1' such as those described in the Fig. 1 to 4 or in EP 3 877 267 B1 or EP 1 053 941 B1. The device and method according to the invention can also be implemented in other ways. The embodiments according to EP 3 877 267 B1 or EP 1 053 941 B1 or according to the Fig. However, numbers 1 to 4 are particularly suitable.

[0145] In principle, it is advantageous if the device 1 according to the invention is designed as a mobile device; however, the invention is not limited to this. Mobility can preferably be achieved by the device 1 having rollers or wheels, which, however, do not necessarily have to be driven.

[0146] It should be noted that devices 1' are such as those described in EP 3 877 267 B1 or EP 1 053 941 B1, or as they are based on the Fig. Figures 1 to 4 are particularly suitable for realizing the device and method according to the invention; therefore, the features described below are in accordance with the Fig. 1 to 4 or according to EP 3 877 267 B1 or EP 1 053 941 B1 are to be understood such that they can preferably be part of the device 1 according to the invention, although it is not necessary that all features be implemented. For an advantageous embodiment, it may be sufficient if individual features or combinations of individual features from EP 3 877 267 B1 or EP 1 053 941 B1 or according to the Fig. 1 to 4 are implemented within the framework of the device 1 according to the invention and the method according to the invention.

[0147] Identical features of the embodiments of the figures are designated with the same reference numerals.

[0148] The Fig. Figure 1 shows a device 1' for strapping packaged goods 2, in particular packages or objects.

[0149] As in the Fig. As can be seen in Figure 1, the packaged goods 2 can, for example, be placed on pallets 3 or similar and connected to the pallet 3 for transport or storage using a strapping band 4.

[0150] A strapping band 4 is, within the framework of the device 1 according to the invention, such as is generally used in the Fig. The strapping shown in figures 5 to 13 is not necessary. However, a strapping band 4 could be carried along during extension to stabilize the band guide 5 (e.g., a back-stiffening chain) described in more detail below, and wound back onto a supply roll (not shown) during retraction.

[0151] Furthermore, the presence of a strapping band 4 may be suitable so that the device 1' for strapping packaged goods 2 can be used both for strapping packaged goods 2 using a strapping band 4, and as a device 1 according to the invention or for carrying out the method according to the invention.

[0152] The device 1' and its operating principle will therefore be described below with reference to the strapping band 4.

[0153] The device 1' of the Fig. Figure 1 features a strap guide 5 for guiding the strapping band 4, which is designed in particular as a guide chain 5. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. Hereinafter, the strap guide 5 will also be referred to as a guide chain; it should be noted that both terms are to be considered synonymous within the scope of the disclosure. The strap guide 5 can, in particular, be a back-stiffening chain.

[0154] The guide chain 5 preferably has a plurality of links 6 which are connected to each other, for example by bolts not specified in more detail.

[0155] The guide chain 5 or its links 6 is / are preferably made of plastic.

[0156] A conveying device 7 is provided for extending and retracting the guide chain 5. In the exemplary embodiment, the guide device 7 engages with the guide chain 5 to extend or retract it from a housing 8 of the device 1. It should be noted that the conveying device 7 can also extend the belt guide 5 in another way.

[0157] A supply roll (not shown) for the strapping band 4 can be attached to the housing 8. The strapping band 4 can preferably be attached to a front end of the guide chain 5 so that the strapping band 4 can be extended with the guide chain 5.

[0158] The conveyor device 7 preferably has a gear 9 for extending and retracting the belt guide 5, the teeth of which engage with the guide chain 5 or the links 6. It may be provided that the gear 9 engages with its teeth in transverse webs of the links 6, which run perpendicular to the extension movement of the guide chain 5.

[0159] Alternatively, the gear 9 or the conveyor 7 can also operate the guide chain 5 in another way to extend and retract it.

[0160] The conveying device 7 can be operated manually or, as in the embodiments shown in the following, Fig. 1 to 13 are preferably provided to be driven by an electric motor 10. The electric motor 10 is located in the Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 indicated by dashed lines.

[0161] The electric motor 10 or a hand crank can generate the extension and retraction movement of the guide chain 5.

[0162] As from the Fig. As can be seen from Figures 1 to 4, the device 1' has a guide slide 11, which preferably includes a deflection unit 12 and a pusher section 13. The guide slide 11 is in Fig. 1 (and also in Fig. 4) extended to a target extension length or to a deflection point of 120.

[0163] The guide carriage 11 is in the Fig. 1 (and in Fig. 4) shown in its deflection position, in which the deflection unit 12 is pivoted by approximately 90 degrees relative to its normal position about a pivot axis 14 or a bolt. The pivot axis 14 forms the pivot point for the pivoting movement of the deflection unit 12 and is arranged transversely to the direction of insertion movement (arrow marked with reference numeral 15) and to the direction of extension movement (arrow marked with reference numeral 16). The pivot axis 14 forms a positive-locking and rotatable connection between the deflection unit 12 of the guide slide 11 and its push section 13.

[0164] The deflection unit 12 deflects the guide chain 5 in such a way that it is deflected upwards from the ground on which the device 1 stands, as shown in Fig. 1 and also in Fig. 4 is shown.

[0165] The design of the guide carriage 11, in particular with the deflection unit 12 and / or with the pusher part 13, as shown in Fig. The method shown in Figure 1 has proven suitable. However, for the basic functioning of the present invention, a different type of deflection of the guide chain 5 at the deflection point 120 may also be provided.

[0166] In the exemplary embodiment, it is provided that the guide carriage 11 together with the guide chain 5 is extended to the target extension length up to the deflection point 120 and the guide chain 5 is deflected accordingly by the deflection unit 12 at the deflection point 120.

[0167] The guide carriage 11 is extended by the guide chain 5, which is driven by the conveyor 7. The guide carriage 11 and the guide chain 5 pass under the packaged goods 2, in this embodiment below a support level of the pallet 3.

[0168] In the exemplary embodiment, the target extension length is dimensioned such that the deflection point 120 is located at a point where the guide carriage 11 exits again below the pallet 3. This is in Fig. 1 shown accordingly.

[0169] In the exemplary embodiments according to the Fig. At the front end of the guide chain 5, a clamping device 17 is arranged, which secures the strapping band 4 to the guide chain 5 before the strapping process begins. The clamping device 17 can, for example, be designed as a self-locking eccentric bolt, which is rotatably mounted on a bolt 18. The guide chain 5 can also have a release cam 19 fixedly connected to it at this end, as well as an elongated hole 20 arranged in the guide chain 5. The release cam 19 and the elongated hole 20 serve to detachably connect the guide carriage 11 to the guide chain 5.

[0170] It should be noted that the method of fastening the strapping band 4, the design of the clamping device 17, and also the way in which the guide carriage 11 is connected to the guide chain 5 represent only one of several possible embodiments; the exemplary embodiment and the invention are not limited to these. Nevertheless, the embodiment described above and below has proven to be particularly advantageous.

[0171] It should also be noted that the features for fastening the strapping band 4 are not necessary if a strapping band 4 is dispensed with or if the device 1 and the method according to the invention are not additionally used for strapping.

[0172] Furthermore, in the Fig. Figure 1 shows a length limiting band 21, which is preferably attached at one end to the push section 13 of the guide slide 11 and can be fixed at the other end to the device 1' or a fixed part of the housing 8 via an end stop 22 attached to the length limiting band 21. With the aid of the end stop 22 and a Fig. 1 movable counter-stop 23 can be - in the Fig. 1 device 1' of the prior art - to adjust the distance that can be traveled by the guide slide 11.

[0173] In the prior art device 1', as described in the Fig. As shown in Figures 2 to 4, a length limiting band 21 is also provided. The device 1' according to the invention, as shown in the Fig. Figures 2 to 4, however, reveal a more advantageous setting of the length limiting band 21, which differs from the representation in the Fig. 1 differs. This will be explained below using the Fig. 2 to 4 are shown in more detail.

[0174] In the exemplary embodiments according to the Fig. In sections 1 to 4, it is provided that the length limiting band 21 is connected to the guide carriage 11 and can be extended with the guide carriage 11. In contrast to Fig. However, 1 is in the Fig. 2 to 4, an adjustment device 24 is provided to set the target extension length of the guide carriage 11 up to the deflection point 120. The function and design of the adjustment device 24 will be explained in more detail below with reference to the Fig. 2 to 4 are shown.

[0175] First, let's look at the following again: Fig. 1, a basic operating principle of the device 1' will be explained.

[0176] It should be noted again that the explanation is based on the Fig. 1 serves only to illustrate a functional principle of the device 1', which has proven suitable; however, the realization of the solution according to the invention is not limited to the one described in Fig. 1. The specific design shown, and also not the one in the Fig. The design shown in sections 2 to 4 is limited.

[0177] All in the Fig. The features shown in points 1 to 4 are therefore to be considered optional.

[0178] As from Fig. As can be seen in Figure 1, the guide chain 5 can be detachably connected to the guide carriage 11 via a special locking mechanism 25, as follows.

[0179] The locking mechanism 25 has a rotatably mounted lever 26 which is rotatably mounted via a bolt (not specified).

[0180] The coupled forward extension movement 16 of the guide chain 5 with the connected guide carriage 11 takes place according to the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the guide carriage 11 continues to move until it is stopped in its position, for example by means of the length limiting band 21, i.e., until the end stop 22 abuts the movable counter stop 23. The distance traveled by the guide carriage 11 can be variably adjusted via the end stop 22.

[0181] The guide chain 5 and the deflection unit 12 of the guide carriage 11, which is locked to the guide chain 5 at this point, are further advanced by the gear 9 in the direction of the extension movement 16. This deflects the deflection unit 12 by approximately 90 degrees relative to its previous position until it abuts a stop 13a attached to the pusher element 13. In the normal position of the deflection unit 12 (in which it has not yet been pivoted by 90 degrees), a support block 27 prevents a locking pin (not shown) connected to the guide carriage 11 from jumping out of the elongated hole 20 by bearing against the end face of the locking pin on the support block 27. By pivoting the deflection unit 12, this locking pin is released by the lever 26, thereby releasing the connection between the deflection unit 12 and the rigid guide chain 5. At the same time, the popped-out locking bolt locks the mechanism.the lever moves the deflection unit 12 into its essentially vertical position.

[0182] The above-described design is also shown in detail in EP 1 053 941 B1, to which reference is hereby made.

[0183] The guide chain 5, after passing through the deflection unit 12, is conveyed upwards along a side wall of the package 2, essentially perpendicular to the ground. The rigid design of the guide chain 5 prevents it from tipping away from the package 2. Furthermore, the strapping band 4, preferably guided along the back of the guide chain 5, maintains tension on the chain, thus also preventing it from tipping towards the package 2. However, the tension of the strapping band 4 can be released, for example, by briefly interrupting the extension movement, allowing the guide chain 5 to be tipped onto the package 2 as desired when it extends a certain distance above the top edge of the package 2. From there, the guide chain 5 is conveyed back towards the device 1 on the package 2.The aforementioned sequence of movements has proven advantageous, but is optional for the realization of the present invention.

[0184] In this way, the user can now grasp the strapping band 4 practically without having to move. Preferably, by holding the strapping band 4, the clamping device 17 releases when the guide chain 5 retracts. The guide chain 5 can then be retracted back into the device, whereby during the insertion movement (arrow 15) or during retraction, the deflection unit 12 is reconnected to the free end of the guide chain 5 by means of the release cam 19 and the lever 26. At the same time, the locking mechanism of the deflection unit 12 is released so that it can pivot back into its normal position. For this purpose, the release cam 19 pushes the forward bent end of the lever 26 away from the rigid guide chain 5, thereby simultaneously pushing the locking pin located at the other end of the lever 26 back through the elongated hole 20 of the guide chain 5 and achieving the desired coupling.Finally, the guide chain 5 takes the reattached guide carriage 11 back into the housing 8 or to the housing 8.

[0185] Further details regarding the operating principle of the device from the prior art can be found in EP 1 053 941 B1, to which explicit reference is hereby made.

[0186] It should be noted again that regarding Fig. The embodiment shown in Figure 1, in particular with regard to the locking mechanism 25 and the design with the bolt 18 or the release cam 19 and the elongated hole 20, are optional designs which may, however, prove to be advantageous.

[0187] The Fig. 2 to 4 differ from Fig. 1. The desired extension length of the guide carriage 11 is adjustable by means of the adjusting device 24, and the adjusting device 24 is configured to determine an actual extension length of the guide carriage 11, preferably continuously while the guide carriage 11 is being extended. Depending on the desired extension length, the adjusting device 24 controls a locking device 28, which stops the extension movement of the length limiting band 21. This is described in the Fig. 2 to 4 are shown accordingly. In contrast to the representation according to the Fig. 1. The variable extension length of the length limiting band 21 is therefore no longer set by the end stop 22 and the counter stop 23 which can be variably attached to the housing 8, but by the adjusting device 24 or the correspondingly controlled fixing device 28, which will be described in more detail below.

[0188] The adjusting device 24 is configured such that it electronically determines the actual extension length of the guide carriage 11 based on the data of the electric motor 10, in particular based on the revolutions of the electric motor 10, whereby the adjusting device 24 also determines partial revolutions of the electric motor 10.

[0189] In the exemplary embodiment, the electric motor 10 has an incremental encoder 29, with the aid of which the revolutions of the electric motor 10 or the angular position and thus the actual extension length of the guide carriage 11 are preferably determined on the basis of the extension length of the guide chain 5.

[0190] The setting device 24 is preferably configured such that the conveyor 7 can be controlled after being switched on and / or as required, such that the conveyor 7 moves the guide carriage 11 to a reference position. This position can also be referred to as the starting position. Preferably, the conveyor 7 retracts the guide carriage 11 into the housing 8 until it reaches a stop. The maximum retracted position can represent the reference position. However, it is preferable if the reference position differs from the maximum retracted position of the guide carriage 11, i.e., if the guide carriage 11 is extended slightly from the maximum retracted position in the direction of arrow 16, and the position reached is then the reference position. The incremental encoder 29 can then be referenced, for example, using the reference position.

[0191] In the exemplary embodiment, the fixing device 28 is designed to fix the length limiting band 21 in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner (e.g. by clamping jaws) or to act on it accordingly.

[0192] In the exemplary embodiment, a positive-locking connection between the fixing device 28 and the length limiting band 21 is shown. For this purpose, the length limiting band 21 has stop elements 30 arranged one behind the other in the longitudinal direction of the length limiting band 21. For details, reference is made to EP 3 877 267 B1.

[0193] The stop elements 30 preferably extend at least along a section of the length limiting strip 21. Preferably, the stop elements 30 extend along the section in a regular grid pattern, so that the length limiting strip 21 can be fixed or stopped at regular intervals of preferably 5 to 15 cm, particularly preferably 10 cm. This is known from EP 3 877 267 B1.

[0194] In the exemplary embodiment, the stop elements 30 are designed as recesses, in particular in the form of elongated holes, in the length limiting band 21. Alternatively, the stop elements 30 can also be designed as projections to create a positive-locking connection with a correspondingly designed element of the fixing device 28.

[0195] As from the Fig. 3 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, the fixing device 28 can have an adjusting unit 31 which engages a fixing element 32 in a form-fitting manner with one of the stop elements of the length limiting band 21, which are designed as recesses 30, to limit the extension movement of the length limiting band 21. For further details, reference is again made to EP 3 877 267 B1.

[0196] In this embodiment, the actuating device 31 is designed as a solenoid and the locking element 32 as a latch. The latch 32 is arranged in a receptacle 33, which may be designed in the form of a flat housing. The receptacle 33 is preferably fixed to a fixed part of the housing 8, preferably between two fixed plates of the housing 8, via a rotatable mounting axis 34. The receptacle 33 is pivotable about the mounting axis 34 when the solenoid 31 is actuated accordingly.

[0197] The receptacle 33 further features a projection 35 against which the lifting magnet 31 can engage. The lifting magnet 31 can thus pivot the receptacle 33, and consequently also the bolt 32, about the mounting axis 34, in particular raising and lowering it, so that the bolt 32 can, as required, engage with one of the recesses 30 of the length limiting band 21. The control of the lifting magnet 31 or the fixing device 28 is based on the data from the adjusting device 34, in particular on the determined actual extension length of the guide carriage 11 and the intended target extension length of the guide carriage 11.

[0198] In the exemplary embodiment, it is preferably provided that the fixing element, in particular the bolt 32, interacts with a damping element not shown in order to dampen the extension movement of the length limiting band 21.

[0199] In the exemplary embodiment according to the Fig. In sections 2 to 4, it is provided that the conveyor 7 is controlled by a control unit 36, which receives corresponding data from the setting device 24, such that the extension speed of the guide chain 5 in the last section of the target extension length of the guide carriage 11 before reaching the deflection point is reduced compared to an extension speed before the last section of the target extension length. This makes it possible for the guide carriage 11 to be extended relatively quickly and for the speed of the guide carriage 11 to be reduced, preferably significantly, only shortly before reaching the deflection point 120. It is also preferably provided that the extension speed of the guide chain 5 is reduced after reaching the deflection point 120, i.e.,When the deflection unit 12 has deflected the guide chain 5, the extension speed of the guide chain 5 in the last section of the target extension length of the guide carriage 11 before reaching the deflection point 120 is increased. It has been shown that, in particular, a high extension speed of the guide chain 5 after the deflection point 120 can significantly reduce the overall duration of the strapping process.

[0200] The adjustment device 24 may be designed as part of the control device 36. Preferably, the device 1' according to the invention has a display (not shown in detail) in which several target extension lengths are preset and can be selected by the user.

[0201] It should be noted that the devices 1', as described in the Fig. Figures 1 to 4 show that, instead of a length limiting band 21, they may also have a brake chain or another design which, preferably controlled by the control device 36, limits the extension movement of the guide carriage 11.

[0202] The following will now be based on the Fig. Sections 5 to 13 describe the device 1 according to the invention, which can make use of features of the device 1'.

[0203] The device 1 according to the invention for guiding a belt 37 around packaged goods 2 comprises a belt guide 5 for guiding the belt 37 and a conveying device 7 for extending and retracting the belt guide 5 from a starting position to at least one connection position. The belt 37 has a front loose end 38 and a rear loose end 39.

[0204] The starting position can be, in particular, a position in which the belt guide 5 is fully retracted into the housing 8. However, the starting position can also be a position in which the belt guide 5 is partially extended out of the housing 8, for example, as is the case in Fig. Figure 6 is shown. The starting position can also be a reference position, as described above.

[0205] According to the invention, the belt guide 5 is extendable from the starting position below the packaged goods 2 to the deflection point 120. The device 1 is configured such that the belt guide 5 performs at least one further upward extension movement at the deflection point 120 to a height that is higher than the height of the packaged goods 2.

[0206] The upward extension movement is in Fig. 7 shown in principle.

[0207] The Fig. Figure 8 already shows the completion of the upward extension movement and a subsequent (optional) further extension movement above the packaged item 2 towards the side of the packaged item 2 where the belt guide 5 is in the starting position. The device 1 according to the invention, or the housing 8 of the device 1 according to the invention, is typically also located on this side of the packaged item 2.

[0208] The Fig. Figure 9 shows the completion of the extension movement above the packaged item 2. Optionally, a further downward extension movement of the belt guide 5 could follow, lowering the belt guide 5 to improve operator access. This solution is particularly useful when the packaged item 2 is very tall, making it difficult for the operator to reach the front end 5a of the belt guide 5. This is not shown in the exemplary embodiment.

[0209] A fastening device 40 is provided at a front end 5a of the belt guide 5, to which an end section 38a of the front loose end 38 of the belt 37 can be fixed in the connected position. In the exemplary embodiment according to the Fig. 5 to 7 is the connection position in Fig. Figure 9 shows the definition of an end section 38a of the front end 38 of the band 37. Fig. 10 shown in principle.

[0210] However, the connection position could also be located elsewhere, preferably at a position between the end of the upward extension movement and the point where it is in Fig. 9 position shown. If a downward extension movement is provided, so that the belt guide 5 or the front end 5a is lowered, the connection position can also be located at the end of the downward extension movement.

[0211] According to the invention, after the end section 38 is fixed to the fastening device 40, the fastening device 40 pulls the front end 38 of the belt 37 through below the packaged goods 2 by means of an insertion movement of the belt guide 5. This is in Fig. Figure 11 shows the front end 5a of the belt guide means 5, after it has been retracted below the packaged goods 2, is located between a housing 8 of the device 1 according to the invention and the packaged goods 2.

[0212] In the embodiment of the invention, the device 1 is preferably arranged such that the belt guide 5, after the front end 38 of the belt 37 has been pulled under the packaged goods 2 by an insertion movement of the belt guide 5, performs an upward extension movement.

[0213] This is in Fig. 12 shown.

[0214] As from the Fig. As can be seen from Figures 5 to 13, the device 1 according to the invention has a band holder 41. The band 37 is arranged on the band holder 41 such that the band 37 can be extended during the insertion movement of the band guide 5. The band holder 41 is designed for unwinding a band 37 configured as a band roll.

[0215] The fastening device 40 can be formed as a single piece or permanently connected to the belt guide 5, or it can be detachably connected to it. The fastening device 40 can be a head piece of the belt guide 5.

[0216] The fastening device 40 can be designed for a force-fit and / or form-fit connection with the end section 38a of the front end 38 of the band 37.

[0217] The fastening device 40 and the end section 38a of the front end 38 of the strip 37 can have complementary first and second connecting elements 42, 43. The first and second connecting elements 42, 43 can be configured to form a friction-fit and / or positive-fit connection. The first and second connecting elements 42, 43 can be configured as projections, pins, ridges, holes, recesses, or indentations such that the first connecting element 42 is complementary to the second connecting element 43. The fastening device 40 and the end section 38 of the front end 38 of the strip 37 can each have several connecting elements 42, 43, in particular to achieve mechanical coding or, using magnets with different polarities, also magnetic coding.

[0218] In the exemplary embodiment, the first and second connecting elements 42, 43 form a hook-and-loop connection with each other, wherein the first connecting element 42 has barbs and the second connecting element 43 has loops. In the exemplary embodiment, the first connecting element 42 is formed on the fastening device 40 and the second connecting element 43 on the end section 38a of the band 37; however, the reverse is also possible.

[0219] In the exemplary embodiment, the end section 38a of the front end 38 of the band 37 and an end section 39a of the rear end 39 of the band 37 are designed such that they can be detachably closed or connected to each other. In the exemplary embodiment, the end sections 38a and 39a are designed to be repeatedly closed or re-closed to each other.

[0220] It can be provided that preferably the rear end section 39a or the rear end 39 of the strap 37 has a loop, preferably a metal loop, through which the front end 38 or the end section 38a can be pulled or looped, so that the end section 38a can be guided back along the strap 37 and fixed to the strap 37 at a suitable point, preferably by a hook and loop fastener. Such solutions are known from the prior art for webbing. The fastening can be carried out in various ways. Fig. 13 merely symbolically represents that the end sections 38a and 39a are (removably) closed together.

[0221] In the exemplary embodiment, the tape 37 is a textile tape. Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the tape 37 is a webbing and that the tape 37 is reusable. The tape 37 preferably has a length of 4 to 7 meters and a thickness of at least 1 mm, more preferably 2 mm to 8 mm, and more preferably 4 mm to 6 mm. The width of the tape 37 can preferably be 20 mm to 170 mm, more preferably 20 mm to 100 mm, and in particular 30 mm to 80 mm.

[0222] The device 1 according to the invention preferably has a set of bands 37, with at least a first number of bands 37 having a first length and a second number of bands 37 having a second length, wherein preferably the bands 37 of the first number have a different color than the bands 37 of the second number.

[0223] The tapes 37 preferably each have a front loose end 38 and a rear loose end 39; preferably, the tapes 37 are configured as a tape roll before unwinding. The front loose end 38 of the tape 37, which is exposed when the tape 37 is wound up, has an end section 38a. The fastening device 40 provided at the front end 5a of the tape guide 5 and the end section 38a of the front end 38 of the tape 37 have complementary first and second connecting elements 42, 43, as already described. The tapes 37, and in particular the tapes 37 of the set, are preferably configured as described above.

[0224] The embodiment also serves as a disclosure for a band 37 and a set of bands 37 which may be part of the device 1 or are intended for use with the device 1.

[0225] The device 1 according to the invention, as illustrated in the exemplary embodiment, further comprises a device 44 for winding up already used tapes 37. The device 44 has a receptacle for hooking the rear loose end 39 of the tape 37 and a drive for winding up the tape 37. This is in principle in the Fig. Figure 5 shows (without the drive). In the exemplary embodiment, the device 44 is connected to the housing 8 or is an integral part of the device 1 according to the invention. However, the device 44 could also be designed as a separate unit. The device 44 can, in a manner not shown in detail, include an electric motor with an enclosure and a push button for actuation, preferably with a dead man's switch for safety reasons. The winding of the tape 37 is effected by a rotary movement of the drive in a preferably predetermined direction of rotation of the drive motor.

[0226] In the exemplary embodiment, as in Fig. Figure 5 shows that the housing 8 preferably also includes a magazine 46, a receptacle, a compartment, or a bearing for storing strips 37 in the form of strip rolls. This can be achieved, for example, by mounting the strips, optionally sorted by length or color, onto mandrels or rods 47. The rods 47 are in Fig. 5 shown with dashed lines.

[0227] In the exemplary embodiment, the device 1 according to the invention is mobile; for this purpose, casters 48 are provided. Furthermore, handles 49 are provided to facilitate the handling of the device 1.

[0228] In an embodiment not shown in detail, it is preferably also provided that the device 1 according to the invention enables a distance measurement, preferably using a laser, so that a defined distance between the housing 8 and the packaged goods 2 can be set.

[0229] In the exemplary embodiment, stabilizing elements are preferably provided which stabilize the belt guide 5 at least section by section such that a tilting movement of the belt guide 5 towards the packaged goods 2 is at least slowed down and / or inhibited. The stabilizing elements are not shown in the exemplary embodiment. These can be glass fiber or carbon fiber rods, springs, plastic parts, in particular for clipping in, which have spring properties, flexible bands, or other elastic elements. Preferably, it is provided that elastic elements are clipped between links 6 of the belt guide 5, in particular links 6 of the chain, especially the back-stiffening chain, or that glass fiber or carbon fiber rods are pushed through along a defined length, thereby changing the stiffness of the belt guide 5.It may be sufficient if elastic elements are inserted between some of the links.

[0230] The embodiment also serves to disclose a device 44 for winding up tapes 37 as part of the device 1 according to the invention or for use with the device 1.

[0231] Band 37 can preferably be a Velcro strap.

[0232] The present embodiment also serves to disclose a method according to the invention for guiding a belt 37 around packaged goods 2, wherein the belt 37 has a front loose end 38 and a rear loose end 39. In the context of the method according to the invention, a belt guide 5 for guiding the belt 37 is extended from a starting position at least to a connection position by means of a conveying device 7. The belt guide 5 is carried from the starting position below the packaged goods 2 and extended to a deflection point 120. Subsequently, the belt guide 5 is deflected at the deflection point 120 such that it executes an upward extension movement to a height that is higher than the height of the packaged goods 2, after which, when the belt guide 5 has been extended to the connection position, an end section 38a of the front end 38 of the belt 37 is detachably fixed at a front end 5a of the belt guide 5.Subsequently, the belt guide 5 is retracted by means of the conveyor device 7 in such a way that the front end 38 of the belt 37 is pulled under the packaged goods 2 by the retraction movement of the belt guide 5.

[0233] Regarding further advantageous process steps, reference is made to the above description.

[0234] The present embodiment also serves to disclose a computer program product with program code means to carry out the method according to the invention when the program is executed on the control device 36 of the device 1 according to the invention for guiding a belt 37 around packaged goods 2. 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 1 053 941 B1 [0005, 0006, 0012, 0013, 0030, 0041, 0042, 0096, 0143, 0144, 0146, 0182, 0185] DE 10 2012 217 805 A1

[0005] DE 103 15 530 A1

[0005] DE 10 2010 029 992 A1

[0005] EP 3 877 267 B1 [0005, 0013, 0030, 0041, 0042, 0096, 0100, 0143, 0144, 0146, 0192, 0193, 0195]

Claims

[1] Device (1) for guiding a band (37) around packaged goods (2), wherein the band (37) has a front loose end (38) and a rear loose end (39), comprising a band guide means (5) for guiding the band (37) and a conveyor device (7) for extending and retracting the band guide means (5) from a starting position to at least one connecting position, wherein the band guide means (5) is extendable from the starting position underneath the packaged goods (2) through to a deflection point (120), and wherein the device (1) is designed such that the band guide means (27) at the deflection point (120) carries out at least one further upwardly directed extension movement up to a height which is higher than the height of the packaged goods (2), wherein at a front end (5a) of the band guide means (5) a fastening device (40) is provided, to which in the connecting position an end section (38a) of the front end (38) of the band (37) can be releasably fixed,wherein the fastening device (40) pulls the front end (38) of the band (37) through a retracting movement of the band guide means (4) below the packaged goods (2). [2] Device according to claim 1, characterized by that the band guide means (5) after the upward extension movement carries out a further extension movement above the packaged goods (2) in the direction of that side of the packaged goods (2) on which the band guide means (5) is in the starting position. [3] Device according to claim 2, characterized by that the band guide means (5), after the band guide means (5) has moved above the packaged goods (2) over the packaged goods (2), carries out a further downward extension movement. [4] Device according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized bythat the band guide means (5), after the front end (38) of the band (37) has been pulled through below the packaged goods (2) by a retracting movement of the band guide means (5), carries out an upward extending movement in order to lift the fastening device (40) and the end section (38a) of the band (37) fastened thereto. [5] Device according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by that a band holder (41) is provided and the band (37) can be arranged on the band holder (41) in such a way that the band (37) can be pulled out during the retraction movement of the band guide means (5). [6] Device according to claim 5, characterized by that the tape holder (41) is designed to unwind a tape (37) designed as a tape roll. [7] Device according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized bythat the fastening device (40) is formed integrally or firmly connected to the band guide means (5) or is detachably connected thereto. [8] Device according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by that the fastening device (40) is designed for non-positive and / or positive connection to the end section (38a) of the front end (38) of the band (37). [9] Device according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by that the fastening device (40) and the end section (38a) of the front end (38) of the band (37) have mutually complementary first and second connecting members (42, 43), preferably for forming a non-positive and / or positive connection. [10] Device according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized bythat the end section (38a) of the front end (38) of the band (37) and an end section (39a) of the rear end (39) of the band (37) are designed such that they can be releasably closed to one another, preferably resealable to one another several times. [11] Device according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized by that the band (37) is a textile band and / or a belt band and / or the band (37) is reusable. [12] Device according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized by that the device (1) has a set of bands (37), with at least a first number of bands (37) having a first length and a second number of bands (37) having a second length, wherein preferably the bands (37) of the first number have a different color than the bands (37) of the second number. [13] Device according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized bythat a magazine is provided for receiving a plurality of tapes (37), preferably in the form of tape rolls. [14] Device according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized by that a device (44) is provided for winding up already used bands (37), wherein the device (44) has a receptacle (45) for suspending the rear loose end (39) of the band (37) and a drive for winding up the band (37). [15] Device according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized by that stabilizing members are provided which stabilize the band guide means (5) at least in sections such that a tilting movement of the band guide means (5) in the direction of the packaged goods (2) is at least slowed down and / or inhibited. [16] Device according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized bythat a guide carriage (11) is provided which, together with the band guide means (5), can be extended below the packaged goods (2) up to a deflection point (120), wherein an adjusting device (24) is provided in order to set a desired extension length of the guide carriage (11) up to the deflection point (120), wherein the guide carriage (11) has a deflection unit (12) which can deflect the band guide means (5) at the deflection point (120). [17] A band for a device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the band (37) has a front loose end (38) and a rear loose end (39), wherein the front loose end (38) of the band (37), which is exposed in the wound-up state of the band (37), has an end section (38a), wherein the fastening device (40) provided at the front end (5a) of the band guide means (5) and the end section (38a) of the front end (38) of the band (37) have mutually complementary first and second connecting members (42, 43) for forming a non-positive and / or positive connection. [18] A band for a device according to claim 17, characterized bythat the band (37) is a textile band and / or the band (37) is a belt band and / or the band (37) has a turnbuckle and / or the band (37) has a belt buckle and / or the band (37) is multi-use and / or the end section (38a) of the front end (38) of the band (37) and an end section (39a) of the rear end (39) of the band (37) are designed such that they can be releasably closed to one another, preferably re-closed to one another multiple times and / or the first connecting links (42) are designed as projections, pins or elevations and the second connecting links (43) are designed as holes, cutouts or recesses complementary thereto and / or the first and second connecting links (42, 43) form a hook-and-loop connection with one another, wherein preferably the first connecting link (42) has barbs and the second connecting link (43) has loops. [19] Set of bands (37) for a device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the set of bands (37) comprises at least a first number of bands (37) with a first length and a second number of bands (37) with a second length, wherein the bands (37) each have a front loose end (38) and a rear loose end (39), wherein in each case the front loose end (38) of the bands (37), which is exposed in the wound state of the band (37), has an end section (38a), wherein the fastening device (40) provided at the front end (5a) of the band guide means (5) and the end section (38a) of the front end (38) of the band (37) have mutually complementary first and second connecting members (42, 43) for forming a non-positive and / or positive connection. [20] Set of bands (37) for a device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterized bythat the bands (37) of the first number have a different color than the bands (37) of the second number. [21] Device (44) for winding up bands (37) for a device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the device (44) has a receptacle (45) for the rear loose end (39) of the band (37) and a drive for winding up the band (37). [22] Magazine (46) for receiving a plurality of tapes (37) for a device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 16. [23] Method for guiding a band (37) around packaged goods (2), wherein the band (37) has a front loose end (38) and a rear loose end (39), after which a band guide means (5) for guiding the band (37) is extended by means of a conveyor device (7) from a starting position at least to a connecting position, after which the band guide means (5) is guided from the starting position below the packaged goods (2) and is extended to a deflection point (120), after which the band guide means (5) is deflected at the deflection point (120) in such a way that it carries out an upwardly directed extension movement to a height which is higher than the height of the packaged goods (2), after which, when the band guide means (5) is extended to the connecting position, an end section (38a) of the front end (38) of the band (37) is detachably fastened to a front end (5a) of the band guide means (5). is determined,after which the band guide means (5) is subsequently retracted by means of the conveyor device (7) in such a way that the front end (38) of the band (37) is pulled through beneath the packaged goods (2) by the retraction movement of the band guide means (5). [24] Method according to claim 23, characterized by that the band guide means (5) after the upward extension movement carries out a further extension movement above the packaged goods (2) in the direction of that side of the packaged goods (2) on which the band guide means (5) is in the starting position. [25] Method according to claim 24, characterized by that the band guide means (5), after the band guide means (5) has moved above the packaged goods (2) over the packaged goods (2), carries out a further downward extension movement. [26] Method according to one of claims 23 to 25, characterized bythat the band guide means (5), after the front end (38) of the band (37) has been pulled through below the packaged goods (2) by a retraction movement of the band guide means (5), carries out an upward extension movement. [27] Method according to one of claims 23 to 26, characterized by that the band (37) is provided as a band roll, wherein the band (37) is unrolled during the retraction movement of the band guide means (5). [28] Method according to one of claims 23 to 27, characterized by that the end section (38a) of the front end (38) of the band (37), after the front end (38) of the band (37) has been pulled through below the packaged goods (2), is detachably connected to an end section (39a) of the rear end (39) of the band (37). [29] Method according to one of claims 23 to 28, characterized bythat, based on the length by which the band guide means (5) is extended to the connecting position, a control device (36) determines or suggests a band (37) or the length of the band (37), the front end (38) of which is fixed to the band guide means (5). [30] Computer program product with program code means for carrying out a method according to one of claims 23 to 29 when the program is executed on a control device (36) of a device (1) for guiding a belt around packaged goods (2) according to one of claims 1 to 16.

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