Packaging plant and operating procedures

Abstract

A packaging system (100) comprising a packaging machine (200) for filling bulk material into bags (400) and a discharge device (300) for transporting filled bags (400), wherein the packaging machine (200) includes a filling module (201) with a filling nozzle (202) and wherein the filling module (201) is suitable and configured to dispense a filled bag (400). Furthermore, a transfer device (1) is arranged between the packaging machine (200) and the discharge device (300), wherein the transfer device (1) is suitable and configured to enable the gentlest possible transfer of a filled bag (400) from the packaging machine (200) to the discharge device (300).In the method for operating such a packaging system (1), an empty bag (400) is attached to a filling nozzle (202) of a filling module (201) of a packaging machine (200) and filled, wherein the filled bag (400) is fed from the filling module (201) to the transfer device (1) and is gently transferred to the discharge device (300) by means of the transfer device (1).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a packaging system comprising at least one packaging machine, in particular for filling bulk goods into bags, and at least one discharge device for transporting filled bags. The packaging machine includes at least one filling module with at least one filling nozzle, wherein the filling module is suitable and configured to dispense a filled bag. The present invention further relates to a method for operating such a packaging system.

[0002] Packaging systems for filling bulk goods are known in various designs in the prior art. Among these are packaging systems that include a rotary packaging machine. Such a rotary packaging machine comprises several filling modules, usually evenly distributed around its circumference, each with a filling nozzle. Empty bags are attached to these filling nozzles and filled during rotation.

[0003] Depending on the design, each filling module includes a tilting sack chair, which is used to tip the filled sack onto a conveyor belt. However, the sack must first be sealed or have a self-sealing valve.

[0004] The filled bags, which are actively sealed depending on the design, are then simply tipped down. The rotation and tipping action generate both radial and rotational forces. This causes the bag to impact, for example, on a conveyor belt, resulting in a significant and potentially detrimental force. Besides deformation of the bag, a "passive" bag closure (where the valve closes upon impact) often leads to dust being released, meaning that in the worst-case scenario, the impact can measurably alter the fill weight.

[0005] Similar problems also sometimes occur with non-rotating packaging machines when dropping the bags after filling, for example with inline packaging machines or single-stem systems.

[0006] It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide a packaging system in which the aforementioned disadvantages are at least partially improved.

[0007] This problem is solved by a packaging system with the features of claim 1 and by a method for operating a packaging system with the features of claim 18. Preferred embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims. Further advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the general description and the description of the exemplary embodiment.

[0008] The present invention relates to a packaging system comprising at least one packaging machine, in particular for filling bulk goods into bags or other containers, and at least one discharge device for transporting filled bags. The packaging machine comprises at least one filling module with at least one filling nozzle, wherein the filling module is suitable and configured to dispense a filled bag. At least one transfer device is arranged between the packaging machine and the discharge device, wherein the transfer device is suitable and configured to enable the gentlest possible transfer of a filled bag from the packaging machine to the discharge device.

[0009] The packaging machine according to the invention is particularly suitable and designed for filling valve bags. Depending on the embodiment, the packaging machine according to the invention is also particularly suitable and designed for filling open-end bags.

[0010] Preferably, the packaging system includes at least one bag-mounting device by means of which empty bags can be automatically shot or attached to an empty or free filling nozzle. Depending on the design, however, manual bag mounting is also preferred.

[0011] Preferably, the filled bags are transferred open and / or closed to the removal device using the transfer device.

[0012] The removal system includes, in particular, at least one conveying device such as a conveyor belt, rollers and / or the like, by means of which the filled bags can be transported further.

[0013] For example, each filling module can include a tipper trailer and / or the like for transferring a filled bag to the transfer device.

[0014] The packaging system according to the invention offers many advantages. A significant advantage is that the transfer device is suitable and designed to enable the gentlest possible transfer of a filled sack from the packaging machine to the discharge device.

[0015] This means, in particular, that the transfer should preferably be low-impact, with the least possible force exerted on the filled bag. It is especially preferred that the bag is decelerated as slowly as possible or that there is no unbraked impact. This is intended to ensure minimal deformation and dust generation during the drop or transfer. Depending on the design, this can also lead to improved weight accuracy, as there is no uncontrolled dust release.

[0016] Furthermore, by means of a particularly gentle discharge or transfer of filled and still open bags by the transfer device, it can be achieved, depending on the design, preferably even unsealed open bags can be transferred to the transfer device, which are then subsequently closed in a known manner.

[0017] Preferably, the packaging machine is designed as a rotary packaging machine, which preferably comprises several filling modules distributed essentially evenly around its circumference. Each filling module preferably includes at least one filling nozzle in which a bag to be filled is filled during the rotation of the packaging machine, preferably within one revolution.

[0018] The filling module is particularly well-suited and designed to actively and / or passively deliver a filled bag to the transfer device. Passive delivery refers specifically to gravity transfer, where, for example, a bag lift is tilted, causing the filled bag to move or be "dropped" towards the transfer device solely by gravity. Active delivery can be achieved, for example, by means of a slide or similar device, actively conveying the bag towards the transfer device. Instead of, or in addition to, a slide, a conveyor belt or other conveying element can also be used to transport the filled bag towards the transfer device.

[0019] In advantageous embodiments, the transfer device comprises at least one collection section. Such a collection section can, in particular, include at least one sliding plate, at least one roller conveyor, at least one conveyor belt, at least one conveyor belt, or several preferably parallel conveyor belts. The filled bag can preferably be transferred particularly gently from the packaging machine to the transfer device or to the discharge device via such a collection section.

[0020] Preferably, the collection section is arranged at least partially and / or at least temporarily inclined. Inclined in this context refers in particular to an arrangement directed downwards from the packaging machine, so that a kind of chute is provided or, more generally, a suitable force input is achieved.

[0021] Depending on the design, the collection section of the transfer device can preferably be integrated into the packaging machine and, for example, be part of or replace the bag holder. Even in such a design, the collection section can be inclined, at least in sections and / or at least temporarily, to move the filled bag towards the conveyor line by gravity, for example, by means of a tilting roller conveyor. Depending on the design, however, the collection section can also be arranged essentially horizontally, in which case it preferably includes suitable conveying means for transporting the filled bags away from the filling nozzle towards the conveyor line.

[0022] Preferably, at least one damping element is assigned to the receiving section. Such a damping element is intended to dampen, cushion, or attenuate the transfer energy or movement of the bag during transfer from the filling module or filling nozzle to the transfer device. This damping element can preferably be designed as a spring plate and / or the like, with at least one type of impact plate being particularly preferred. In particular, such a damping element is provided outside the rotation of the packaging machine. Generally, the damping can be achieved, in particular, by means of active and / or passive elements. Springs, dampers, and / or pneumatic elements, for example, can preferably be used.

[0023] Preferably, at least one deceleration device is assigned to the collection section. Depending on its design, such a deceleration device should also reduce, dampen, or slow down the transfer energy or movement of the bag. For example, and preferably, a spring-loaded inlet funnel can be provided. Such a deceleration device preferably slows down the bags and delays their feed to the subsequent discharge device.

[0024] Preferably, the collection section is arranged radially and / or rotated in the direction of rotation of the packaging machine. This allows for a particularly efficient transfer of a filled bag from the filling module or filling nozzle to the transfer device.

[0025] In suitable designs, the damping element is assigned to and / or integrated into the deceleration device. In particular, it is also possible that, for example, a separate plate and / or a resilient plate section is assigned to or integrated into the deceleration device as a damping element.

[0026] Preferably, the conveying section is arranged essentially transversely to the collection section. However, it can also preferably be arranged radially or in line away from the filling nozzle. The conveying section transports the bag to the discharge device, and is in particular equipped with a conveyor belt and / or a conveyor belt and / or another suitable conveying means.

[0027] The conveying system preferably includes at least one carrier. Such a carrier serves, in particular, to convey the filled bag, which has been transferred onto the conveying system, further towards the discharge device. This carrier can, for example, be designed like a plate, with the conveying system then conveying the bags in sections. This method also preferably prevents the bag from tipping over.

[0028] Suitable advanced models include at least two collection sections, which are typically connected to a common conveyor section. Depending on the specific configuration, such a design can significantly increase the performance of the packaging machine.

[0029] Preferably, the conveying section is arranged at least partially inclined, depending on the design. The inclination can, in particular, be adapted to the inclination of the collection section or continue it.

[0030] Preferably, at least one sealing device is included on the packaging machine for sealing the bags, particularly on each filling module. With such a design, the bags can be sealed directly at the packaging machine or at the respective filling module (directly) before being transferred to the transfer device.

[0031] The method according to the invention is suitable for operating a packaging system as previously described. An empty bag is attached to a filling nozzle of a packaging machine and filled, the filled bag being fed from the filling module to the transfer device, and the bag being gently transferred to the discharge device by means of the transfer device.

[0032] The inventive method also offers the advantages that have already been described for the inventive packaging system.

[0033] Preferably, the bag is gently fed into at least one receiving section of the transfer device by means of at least one damping element. The damping element particularly cushions the otherwise harsh impact typical of such packaging systems, thereby significantly reducing the force exerted on the filled bag by the packaging system and method according to the invention. This also makes it possible, among other things, to discharge or discharge unsealed or open bags (e.g., valve bags or open-end bags) from the packaging machine.

[0034] Preferably, the bag is slowed down by means of at least one deceleration device. Such a deceleration device can enable a particularly gentle continuation of the bag transport.

[0035] Further advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the exemplary embodiment, which is explained below with reference to the accompanying figures.

[0036] The figures show: Fig. 1 a purely schematic representation of an embodiment of a packaging system according to the invention in a top view; Fig. 2 a purely schematic representation of a further embodiment of a packaging system according to the invention in a top view; Fig. 3 a purely schematic representation of an embodiment of a packaging system according to the invention in a perspective view; Fig. 4 a purely schematic detailed representation of an embodiment of a packaging system according to the invention in a perspective view; Fig. 5 a purely schematic representation of an embodiment of a transfer device and a removal device of a packaging system according to the invention in a perspective view; Fig. 6 purely schematic representations ( Fig. 6A-6D) of an embodiment of a transfer device of a packaging system according to the invention, each in a top view; Fig. 7 a purely schematic representation of a further embodiment of a packaging system according to the invention in a perspective view; Fig. 8 a purely schematic representation of the embodiment according to Fig. 8 in a side view; Fig. 9 a purely schematic representation of the embodiment according to Fig. 8 in another side view; and Fig. 10 a purely schematic representation of the embodiment according to Fig. 8 in the next page view.

[0037] In Fig. Figure 1 is a purely schematic embodiment of a packaging system 100 according to the invention. The packaging system 100 shown here comprises a packaging machine 200, which is designed here as a so-called rotary packaging machine 200.

[0038] Furthermore, the packaging system 100 includes a mounting device 500, which is suitable and designed to automatically shoot empty bags 400, here valve bags 401, onto an empty, rotating filling nozzle 201 of the packaging machine.

[0039] In the embodiment shown here, the packaging machine 200, or the rotating packaging machine 203, comprises six filling modules 201, which are distributed essentially evenly around the circumference. Each of these filling modules 201 includes a filling nozzle 202 onto which a valve bag 401 can be shot. Using the loading device, 500 valve bags 401 with a pre-opened valve are accelerated in a dispensing channel and shot onto a rotating filling nozzle 202.

[0040] The packaging machine 200 rotates in the direction of rotation 204 at a predetermined speed, wherein the packaging system 100 is configured such that an empty bag shot onto the filling nozzle 202 is preferably filled during a rotation of the packaging machine 200 and discharged onto or to a conveying device 300.

[0041] To ensure the transfer of the full sack is as gentle and smooth as possible, a transfer device 1 is provided between the packing machine 200 and the conveying device 300 according to the invention. This transfer device 1 is suitable and designed to transfer a filled sack, whether a valve sack 401 or, depending on the design, an open-top sack, either still open or already closed, as gently as possible onto or to the conveying device 300.

[0042] In the prior art, a so-called sack chair 205 of a filling module 201 with the fully filled sack is simply tilted forward upon reaching the transport device 300, so that the filled sack 400 is thrown radially and in the direction of rotation 204 accelerated onto the transport device 3.

[0043] This can result in considerable forces acting on the filled 400-pound bag, leading to deformation and even dust shedding. This can disrupt or complicate the subsequent palletizing of the 400-pound bags. Furthermore, excessive dust shedding can alter the fill weight. Understandably, open bags cannot simply be tipped out; instead, they are preferably sealed beforehand during the rotation of the 200-pound packaging machine.

[0044] By the inventive interposition of a transfer device 1, it is achieved that the bags 400 can be transferred particularly gently from the filling nozzle 202 via the transfer device 1 or by means of the transfer device 1 to the transport device 300.

[0045] The transport device includes in particular at least one conveying element 301, by means of which the filled bags 400 can be transported, for example, to a palletizing station or otherwise.

[0046] In Fig. Figure 2 is a purely schematic representation of a further embodiment of a packaging system 100 according to the invention, shown in a perspective top view.

[0047] In the embodiment shown here, the packaging system 100 also comprises a packaging machine 200, a loading device 500, and a discharge device 300. Furthermore, in this embodiment as well, a transfer device 1 is provided between the packaging machine 200 and the discharge device 300, which is designed such that filled bags 400 can be transferred from the filling support 202 particularly gently or without excessive force being exerted on the discharge device 300. This makes it possible, in particular, to transfer even unsealed or open bags 400, for example, valve bags 401 or open-end bags, depending on the configuration.

[0048] In Fig. 3 is the embodiment according to Fig. Figure 2 shows the product again in a different perspective view. Here, the rotating packing machine 203 can also be seen, from which filled bags 400 are gently transferred to the outfeed conveyor 300 by means of a transfer device 1.

[0049] Furthermore, it is shown that each of the eight filling modules 201 includes a filling support 202. It can also be seen that each filling module 201 includes a so-called sack chair 205, which can be tilted radially outwards, i.e., forwards, to transfer a filled sack onto the transfer device 1.

[0050] Furthermore, it is shown that the conveyor section 5 also includes a substantially horizontally oriented conveyor element 12, to which carriers 6 are attached at regular intervals. These carriers 6 assist the further transport of the filled bags to the discharge device 300 and also prevent the bags from tipping over.

[0051] In Fig. Figure 4 is a detailed, perspective side view of the previously shown embodiment, presented purely schematically. The transfer device 1 between the rotating packaging machine 203 and the discharge device 300 can be seen.

[0052] It is further shown here that the transfer device 1 includes a collection section 2, which in the embodiment shown here is arranged at a slight downward incline starting from the packaging machine 200. Thus, the collection section 2, which is arranged here essentially radially to the packaging machine 200, provides a kind of chute 7, so that the bags 400 dropped or transferred onto the collection section 2 are reliably conveyed to a conveyor section 5 of the transfer device 1.

[0053] At the end of the conveyor section 5, the filled bags 400 then fall gently onto a spring element 301 of the conveying device 300, which is also arranged at a slight incline, for further processing or removal.

[0054] In Fig. Figure 5 shows a purely schematic view of the transfer device 1 and the discharge device 300. Here, too, the conveyor section 5 of the transfer device 1 can be seen, which is positioned perpendicular to the receiving section 2.

[0055] Furthermore, it is shown that the transfer device 1 here comprises a damping element 3 and a delay device 4. The more detailed design and functionality are described in the Fig. 6A to 6D (top views) described.

[0056] Figure 6A shows that a filled and still open sack accelerates radially outwards from the packing machine 200 and in the direction of rotation 204 towards the transfer device 1.

[0057] The transfer device 1 includes a damping element 3 in the area where a filled bag 400 is taken over from the packaging machine 200. In the illustrated embodiment, this damping element 3 is designed as a spring-loaded plate 8, so that the force acting in the direction of rotation 204 is dampened, cushioned, or buffered as gently as possible via this damping element 3. This prevents the still open bag 400 from impacting stationary or fixed components of the packaging system 100 without any damping. The damping can be achieved, in particular, by means of active and / or passive elements. Springs, dampers, and / or pneumatic elements, for example, can preferably be used.

[0058] In the following Fig. 6B, Fig. 6C and Fig. Figure 6D shows that once the filled bag 400 has entered the "entrance" of the transfer device 1, it is introduced relatively slowly into the collection section 2 by means of a delay device 4.

[0059] This delay device 4, provided here by a spring-loaded funnel 9 or inlet funnel 9, allows the feed of the filled bags 400 onto the conveying line 5 to be controlled and / or separated. Furthermore, it ensures particularly gentle conveyance of the filled bag 400.

[0060] Depending on the design, the damping element 3 can be configured as a separate component from the deceleration device 4, as in the illustrated embodiment. However, depending on the design, the damping element 3 can also be part of the deceleration device 4 or be integrated into it. In particular, it is possible that the portion of the inlet funnel 9 located behind the direction of rotation 204 has a resilient plate section or the like, which can perform the function of the damping element 3 or provides the damping element 3 itself.

[0061] In the Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9 to Fig. Figure 10 shows a further embodiment of a packaging machine 200 according to the invention. In the embodiment described below, however, the packaging machine 200 is not designed as a rotary packaging machine 203 as in the two previously shown embodiments, but as a so-called inline packer 206.

[0062] The embodiment of the packaging machine 200 shown here comprises two filling modules 201, which are arranged side by side and each has a filling support 202. Depending on the configuration, however, three, four or more filling modules 201 can also be arranged side by side.

[0063] In the illustrated embodiment, empty valve bags 401 are placed on or shot onto a filling nozzle and filled. Depending on the configuration, the packaging machine 200 can also be suitable and designed to fill open-face bags.

[0064] In the embodiment shown here, it is further illustrated that the bags rest on a bag stand 205 during filling, which here includes a roller conveyor 207. The transfer device 1 is partially enclosed by the packaging machine 200, with the roller conveyor 207 providing the receiving section 2 for the transfer device 1.

[0065] Once a sack 400 is completely filled, the corresponding sack chair 205 or roller conveyor 207 can be folded downwards or inclined, causing the sack 400 to move by gravity alone along the roller conveyor towards the conveyor line 5 of the transfer device 1. For this purpose, the rollers are arranged perpendicular to the direction of travel of the sack 400.

[0066] Furthermore, it is shown that the conveyor section 5 is not provided by a continuous conveyor belt, but by individual belts 10. This makes it possible to arrange individual rollers 11 between the conveyor belts 10 in order to further simplify the lateral transport of the full bag 400 from the roller conveyor 207 or from the collection section 2 to the conveyor section 5.

[0067] Depending on the design, a delay device 4 may also be provided when using a non-rotating packaging machine 100, as is the case, for example, with the previous embodiment in the Fig. Figures 6A to 6D are shown. Any other suitable modification of a delay device 4 can also be used to control the transfer of the filled bag 400 to the conveyor line 5 or to time or delay the discharge.

[0068] Furthermore, in Fig.Figure 7 shows that the conveying section comprises a substantially horizontal or slightly inclined conveying element 12, which supports the transport to the discharge device 300. In addition, in the illustrated embodiment, carriers 6 are arranged on the conveying element, which support the transport and also prevent the filled bags 400 from tipping over. Reference symbol list 1 Transfer device 2 Catchment area 3 damping element 4 Delay device 5 Conveyor section 6 drive wheels 7 slides 8 plate 9 funnels (inlet funnels) 10 conveyor belts 11 roll 12 Conveyor element 100 packing machines 200 packing machines 201 Filling module 202 filling nozzles 203 rotary packaging machine 204 Direction of rotation 205 Sack chair 206 row packers 207 Roller conveyor 300 removal equipment 301 Conveyor element 400 bags 401 Valve bag 500 plug-in device

Claims

Packaging system (100) comprising at least one packaging machine (200) in particular for filling bulk material into bags (400) and at least one discharge device (300) for transporting filled bags (400), wherein the packaging machine (200) comprises at least one filling module (201) with at least one filling nozzle (202) and wherein the filling module (201) is suitable and designed to dispense a filled bag (400), characterized in that at least one transfer device (1) is arranged between the packaging machine (200) and the discharge device (300), wherein the transfer device (1) is suitable and designed to enable the gentlest possible transfer of a filled bag (400) from the packaging machine (200) to the discharge device (300). Packaging system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the packaging machine (200) is designed as a rotating packaging machine (203) which comprises several filling modules (201) distributed substantially uniformly around the circumference. Packaging system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the filling module (201) is suitable and designed to actively and / or passively transfer a filled bag to the transfer device (1). Packing system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transfer device (1) comprises at least one receiving section (2). Packing system (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the receiving section (2) is arranged at least sectionally and / or at least temporarily inclined. Packing system (100) according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein at least one damping element (3) is assigned to the receiving section (2). Packing system (100) according to one of the three preceding claims, wherein at least one delay device (4) is assigned to the receiving section (2). Packaging system (100) according to one of the four preceding claims, wherein the collection section (2) is arranged radially and / or in the direction of rotation (204) of the packaging machine (200) slightly rotated. Packing system (100) according to one of the five preceding claims, wherein at least one conveying section (5) is assigned to the receiving section (2). Packaging system (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the conveying section (5) is arranged substantially transversely to the receiving section (2). Packaging system (100) according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein the conveyor section (5) comprises at least one carrier (6), which is in particular attached to at least one conveyor element (12). Packaging system (100) according to one of the three preceding claims, wherein at least two receiving sections (2) are provided, to which in particular a common conveying section (5) is assigned. Packaging system (100) according to one of claims 6 to 12, wherein the damping element (3) is assigned to and / or integrated into the delay device (4). Packing system (100) according to one of claims 6 to 13, wherein the conveyor section (5) is arranged inclined at least in sections. Method for operating a packaging system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an empty bag (400) is attached to a filling nozzle (202) of a filling module (201) of a packaging machine (200) and filled, wherein the filled bag (400) is fed from the filling module (201) to the transfer device (1), wherein the bag (400) is gently transferred to the discharge device (300) by means of the transfer device (1). Method according to the preceding claim, wherein the filled bag (400) is gently fed to a collection section (2) by means of at least one damping element (3). Method according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein the filled bag (400) is slowed down by means of at least one deceleration device (4).

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