System for converting a web-shaped starting material into packaging bags

Abstract

System (100) for converting a web-shaped input material (1) defining a web longitudinal direction (L) and extending between two longitudinal edges (6) opposite each other in the web width direction (B), in particular made of paper or cardboard, into packaging bags (11), comprising: a feed device (110) for drawing off the web-shaped starting material (1), a forming device (130) for continuously forming the web-shaped starting material (1) into a material web (5) with a V- or U-shaped cross-section and a receiving cavity (9) extending in the longitudinal direction (L) of the web, characterized by the fact that the system (100) comprises a guide device (200) for guiding a leading edge of the web-shaped starting material (1) from the feed device (110) to the forming device (130).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a system for converting a web-shaped starting material into packaging bags. A web-shaped starting material defines a longitudinal direction and extends between two opposing longitudinal edges. The web-shaped starting material preferably consists of paper or cardboard.

[0002] Packaging bags, a web of packaging material, and packaging material blanks are known from DE 10 2020 114 1 A1. Such packaging bags, etc., are used in the packaging industry to pack items, especially shipping items, in particular to protect them from damage during shipping.

[0003] Although various systems are known for forming packaging bags from webs of packaging material to hold items such as shipping goods.

[0004] US 9,725,194 B2 and EP 2 840 027 B1 describe systems for the automatic packaging of items on a sliding plane. A web material is redirected from a feed plane to the sliding plane. During redirection, the packaging web material is drawn along angular wedges, creating elongated grooves in the packaging web material. Downstream of the wedges, the packaging web material is folded over to form a packaging web from which blanks can be taken. The system has a large length in the web longitudinal direction and thus a large footprint, which is undesirable given the limited space in a shipping center. The angular creation of grooves has proven to be a frequent cause of web breaks, disrupting the continuous production of packaging webs and blanks.To start up the system after a material break, after a supply of material web has been used up, or for initial commissioning, the leading edge of the web material must be threaded from the supply along the various guide rollers, around corners, and through narrow gaps. Threading requires a tremendous amount of manual effort and is therefore very time-consuming. During threading, the system is practically at a standstill, so no items can be packaged during this time.

[0005] It is an object of the invention to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art, in particular to provide an efficiently usable system for converting a web-shaped starting material, which is easy, safe and reliable to handle and suitable for packaging a wide variety of objects, especially with particularly short setup times, while requiring little space.

[0006] Accordingly, a system for converting a web-shaped input material is provided, wherein the input material defines a longitudinal web direction and extends between two longitudinal edges opposite each other in the web width direction. In particular, the input material comprises, and especially predominantly, i.e., at least 75%, and more specifically at least 80%, preferably at least 90%, paper or cardboard, or consists thereof.

[0007] Web-shaped material, such as the starting material, has a longitudinal web direction. The web-shaped material preferably has a constant web / material thickness. Web-shaped material generally expands in the web width direction transversely to the web length direction and, viewed transversely to the web direction, has a particularly constant width. In the web width direction, the web-shaped material has opposite longitudinal edges. In the web width direction, the packaging material web or the web-shaped starting material terminates at a longitudinal edge extending in the web length direction. For example, the web-shaped starting material has a width of at least 200 mm and, in particular, at most 2000 mm. For example, the width is approximately 500 mm.Web-shaped material generally has much larger dimensions in the longitudinal direction than in the width direction. For example, the extent of the web material in the longitudinal direction can be at least 20, at least 50, at least 100, or at least 1000 times greater than in the width direction. Web-shaped material generally has much larger dimensions in the width direction than in the thickness direction. For example, the extent of the web material in the width direction can be at least 20, at least 50, at least 100, or at least 1000 times greater than the web / material thickness. Optionally, at least one longitudinal edge strip adjacent to a longitudinal edge is provided, at least partially, with a cold-sealable adhesive. The adhesive width of the longitudinal edge strip provided with cold-sealable adhesive can be at least 10 mm and, in particular, at most 300 mm, 250 mm, or at most 200 mm.For example, both opposite longitudinal edges can be coated with cold-sealable adhesive.

[0008] The web-like material is preferably made predominantly or entirely of a cellulose-based material. In particular, the web-like material can be made of paper, such as recycled paper, and / or cardboard, especially corrugated cardboard. Preferably, a web-like material made of paper or cardboard, especially corrugated cardboard, is provided. The material web can be made of paper, such as recycled paper, and / or 100% recyclable paper, which may be produced without chemical additives. Recycled paper is, in particular, paper materials with a low proportion (less than 50%) of virgin fiber paper. For example, paper materials containing 70% to 100% recycled paper, especially based on waste paper, are used.The recycled paper within the meaning of this invention can be paper material that has a tensile strength index longitudinally to the machine direction of at most 90 Nm / g, preferably a tensile strength of 15 Nm / g to 60 Nm / g, and a tensile strength index transversely to the machine direction of at most 60 Nm / g, preferably a tensile strength of 5 Nm / g to 40 Nm / g. For determining the tensile strength or the tensile strength index, a standard such as DIN EN ISO 1924-2 or DIN EN ISO 1924-3 can be used. In addition, or alternatively, a recycled paper property can be characterized by its so-called burst resistance. A material in this sense is recycled paper with a burst index of at most 3.0 kPa*m^2 / g, preferably with a burst index of 0.8 kPa*m^2 / g to 2.5 kPa*m^2 / g. The burst index is determined according to the standard DIN EN ISO 2758.Furthermore, the packaging material has a basis weight of, in particular, 40 g / m² to a maximum of 140 g / m². The web-like starting material can be in the form of a roll of material or a zigzag-folded stack of packaging material, also known as a leporello stack.

[0009] The system according to the invention comprises a feed device for drawing off the web-shaped input material, in particular from a supply of web material, such as a supply roll. The feed device can, for example, comprise opposing conveyor rollers, conveyor cylinders, or the like. It is preferred that the feed device has a drive unit, such as an electric motor, which drives at least one conveyor roller. Preferably, the feed device is designed to draw off the web-shaped input material from a supply of web material, for example, a zigzag-folded stack of material, which can also be referred to as a leporello stack, or from a supply roll.

[0010] The system according to the invention further comprises a forming device for continuously forming the web-shaped starting material into a material web with a receiving cavity extending in the longitudinal direction of the web. The forming device is preferably designed and configured to form the, in particular initially flat, web-shaped starting material into a material web with a V- or U-shaped cross-section. Preferably, the receiving cavity of the material web has an insertion opening extending in the longitudinal direction of the web. In particular, the receiving cavity is bounded by a pocket base formed opposite the insertion opening and laterally by projecting wings of the material web. The material web can, for example, be formed with a V-shaped cross-section.The forming device can, for example, be configured to transform an initially flat, web-shaped starting material by bending or folding at least one wing extending along a first (e.g., right in the conveying direction) or second (e.g., left in the conveying direction) longitudinal edge onto the other wing. Alternatively, the material web can be formed with a U-shaped cross-section. The forming device can be configured to bend or fold opposing wings at both opposite longitudinal edges of the initially flat, web-shaped starting material towards each other, forming a back extending along the center of the web material. In the system for transforming the web-shaped starting material, the forming device is preferably arranged downstream of the feed device in the conveying direction.

[0011] The system according to the invention comprises a guide device for guiding a leading edge of the web-shaped input material from the feed device to the forming device. The guide device reliably directs the input material from the feed device to the forming device. By ensuring a reliable transfer of the leading edge of the web-shaped input material from the feed device to the forming device, the guide device can significantly accelerate the setup process for commissioning the system with a new web of material, for example, after a supply of material webs has been consumed or following an unintentional break of the material web in the forming device.By providing a guide device along which the web-shaped starting material, and in particular a leading edge thereof, is guided from the feed device to the forming device, the required manual setup effort can be significantly reduced or even completely avoided.

[0012] In the conveying direction, the deflection is arranged behind the infeed device at the inlet area of ​​the forming device. In particular, the forming device can be adapted to the web-shaped input material, the infeed device, and / or the forming device in such a way that the web-shaped input material has a flat, web-like extent at the forming device, especially along at least a partial wrap around the forming device. A flat, web-like extent of the web-shaped input material is to be understood in particular with regard to the extent of the input material in the web width direction. In the conveying direction, or...In the longitudinal direction of the web corresponding to the conveying direction, the flat, web-like input material can be guided along a curved path, in particular by means of a deflection device, the feed device, and optionally a support roller or the like, wherein the curved path can, for example, be C- or S-shaped in sections. Preferably, the deflection device is designed to change the path of the web-like input material in the conveying direction, for example by at least 10° and / or not more than 180°.

[0013] The deflection element can be shaped, for example, as a roller, particularly as an ideal cylindrical roller. Preferably, a deflection element shaped as a roller can be a single piece and extend along the width of the web-shaped starting material. Alternatively, a deflection element shaped as a roller can be convex, with the diameter at each end of the roller being smaller than the diameter in the middle. The advantage of this design is that the deflection element has a positive influence on the forming device downstream of it in the flow direction, as well as on the web-shaped starting material, and that the web-shaped starting material is held centrally within the system relative to the forming device. This allows the system to be designed to be particularly compact and essentially eliminates the need for guides for laterally guiding the web-shaped starting material.Furthermore, a convex deflection design allows the web-shaped starting material to be pre-stretched, thus simplifying the downstream forming process and potentially making it more reliable, and increasing the conveying speed. The term "convex design" preferably refers to a continuously curved shape. Alternatively, stepped designs that approximate a convex silhouette are also conceivable. In a simpler configuration, only a single step is present, where the deflection, designed as a roller, resembles the shape of a truncated cone, with the diameter being largest in the central region of this roller and smaller at each end.Convex designs for such a deflection mechanism, which is shaped like a roller, have proven to be highly effective, with the different circumferential speeds having no discernible influence on the resulting friction between the web-shaped starting material and the roller.

[0014] It is conceivable that the deflection mechanism is composed of several roller and / or roll sections arranged side by side, possibly distributed across the width of the web-shaped input material, in the transverse direction. These multiple roller and / or roll sections share a common pivot point along a straight central longitudinal axis. A previously mentioned convex deflection design with a deflection roller or roll consisting of several sections can be realized, particularly by having at least some individual roller and / or roll sections have different outer diameters, with the overall appearance of all roller and / or roll sections assembled to form a deflection roller or roll preferably representing a convex structure resembling a convex enveloping silhouette.

[0015] It may be advantageous for the deflection mechanism to interact with a dancer element positioned upstream of the deflection in the conveying direction. In principle, such a dancer element can be designed as a roller. The dancer element can act as a tensioning device, keeping the web-shaped input material under constant tension between the feed device and the forming device. The tension force is preset and ensures a reliable forming and conveying process, as will be explained in more detail later.

[0016] Preferably, the deflection mechanism comprises a partially cylindrical or cylindrical, in particular rotating, means that determines the conveying path of the web-shaped input material, preferably implemented by a deflection roller, and in particular by a single deflection roller. The deflection mechanism allows the system for converting a web-shaped input material into packaging bags to be implemented in a particularly space-saving manner. Furthermore, the deflection mechanism significantly reduces the risk of the web-shaped input material tearing in the run-up to the forming device.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment of the system, the guide device defines a channel, particularly a funnel-shaped one. The channel is formed by several guide elements that can be brought into contact, particularly sliding or driving contact, with the leading edge of the input material. The guide elements define a limited path for the web-shaped input material from the feed device to the forming device. The predetermined path of the web-shaped input material is limited by the contact between the leading edge of the web-shaped input material and at least one guide element. This ensures that the web-shaped input material is reliably guided from the feed device to the forming device.

[0018] According to an optional further development of the system, the channel narrows in the conveying direction of the web-like input material, preferably with the channel height narrowing in the vertical direction. The narrowing channel can have a greater width, and in particular a greater channel height, at the outlet of the feeder than at the inlet of the forming device. This allows the web-like input material to be transferred unimpeded from the feeder to the guide and fed from the guide to the forming device with a minimized risk of paper jams.

[0019] Preferably, the guiding device comprises at least one first guiding element that delimits a first side of the channel, in particular the lower side in the vertical direction, and / or at least one second guiding element that delimits a second side of the channel opposite the first side, in particular the upper side in the vertical direction. The channel can be open on one or more sides, in particular in the width direction.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment of the system, the guiding device comprises several guide elements arranged side by side and / or one behind the other with respect to the conveying direction. For example, the guiding device can comprise several guide elements, such as guide plates and / or guide rods, arranged one behind the other in the conveying direction, which together bridge the distance spanned by the guiding device. For example, the guiding device can have different, in particular different types, guide elements arranged one behind the other in the conveying direction, such as a rigid guide element and a movable guide element arranged behind it in the conveying direction. Additionally or alternatively, the guiding device can have several guide elements arranged side by side transversely to the conveying direction, in particular in the width direction.Adjacent guiding elements can, for example, be guide bars arranged side by side in a rail-like or grid-like pattern, which together span a surface on which the track-shaped starting material and its leading edge can slide.

[0021] Preferably, in one embodiment of the system, the guiding element may bridge a distance between the infeed device and the forming device. Preferably, at least one, and in particular a first, guiding element extends completely from the infeed device to the forming device. The first guiding element may extend uninterrupted from the outlet area of ​​the infeed device to the infeed area of ​​the forming device. Alternatively or additionally, at least one, and in particular a second, guiding element may extend over at least half, in particular two-thirds, preferably three-quarters, and most preferably nine-tenths of the distance. The guiding element may comprise several guiding elements of the same or different lengths.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment of the system, the guide device bridges a height difference between an outlet area of ​​the feeder and the inlet area of ​​the forming device, which is arranged vertically above the outlet area. Such a guide device directs the web-shaped input material along a vertically rising path from the feeder to the forming device. By arranging the forming device vertically offset from the feeder, a particularly space-saving system can be achieved.

[0023] According to one embodiment of the system, the guiding device comprises at least one rigid guiding element, such as a guide rod, a guide plate, or the like. In particular, the guiding device comprises several rigid guiding elements. With rigid guiding elements, contact with the leading edge of the web-shaped source material can be implemented as a sliding contact.

[0024] Alternatively or additionally, the guiding device comprises at least one conveyable guide element, such as a belt, for carrying the leading edge of the web-shaped input material. With conveyable guide elements, contact with the leading edge of the web-shaped input material can be implemented as a conveying contact and, optionally, as a sliding contact. It may be preferred that the conveyable guide element engages with the forming device at least partially, particularly in an entry area of ​​the forming device.For example, the conveying guide element can be implemented as a belt for a conveying contact with the leading edge of the web-shaped input material, wherein this belt is in partial contact with a deflection, such as a deflection roller, at the entrance of the forming device to ensure a reliable transfer of the web-shaped input material to the forming device.

[0025] Preferably, the conveying guide element engages with the forming device at least partially, particularly in an entry region of the forming device. Preferably, the forming device includes a deflection element, such as a deflection roller, which imposes at least one turn on the web-shaped starting material in an entry region of the forming device. Preferably, the deflection element, particularly the deflection roller, has a circumferential contact area of ​​at least 10°, particularly at least 45°, preferably at least 60°, and most preferably at least 90°, which can be brought into contact with the web-shaped starting material.In particular, the conveying guide element, such as a belt, can be brought into contact with the web-shaped starting material radially on the outside with respect to a deflection axis defined by the deflection, wherein the retaining belt can be applied to the web-shaped starting material at least in a part, in particular in at least a large part, of the circumferential contact area.

[0026] In particular, the retaining belt extends in the web width direction over less than half, more specifically less than one-third, preferably less than 15% of the axial length of the deflection and / or the initial width of the web-shaped input material. The retaining belt is preferably guided by at least two, more specifically three, belt rollers, with the retaining belt bearing against the deflection, more specifically the deflecting roller, between a first and a second belt roller. It may be advantageous for the retaining belt to be conveyed by a retaining belt drive, more specifically with a belt speed corresponding to the circumferential speed of the deflecting roller. Overall, the belt speed when operated by the retaining belt drive can be dimensioned to equal or exceed the take-off speed.In the latter design, the belt speed can lead the speed of the leading edge of the web-shaped input material, so that the belt is always in contact with the leading edge or can even exert a slight pulling force on it. The leading speed can range from 1% to 20% relative to the speed of the leading edge. Optionally, the retaining belt can be free-running. For this purpose, at least one of the belt rollers can be equipped with a freewheel. Primarily, however, the belt roller connected to the drive motor is equipped with the freewheel. In particular, in the case of a belt deflection roller, its rotatable bearing and its freewheel are aligned coaxially with each other.Especially during the initial installation of the web-shaped feed material into the system, the free-running retaining belt has proven very helpful as an installation aid, because it prevents the web-shaped feed material from slipping back. The use of a retaining belt has proven particularly advantageous in combination with large circumferential contact areas.

[0027] In particular, the forming device comprises at least one folding means, such as a folding roller, which can be brought into contact with the material web, such as a rolling contact, a sliding contact, or the like. The folding means can be designed and configured, in particular, to press against the material web. The folding means can be arranged relative to at least one other means determining the conveying path of the web-shaped input material or the material web, in particular at least one upstream, downstream, or to the right or left of the folding means with respect to the conveying direction, such that the folding means, together with the at least one other means, causes a deformation of an originally flat, web-shaped extension. In particular, the at least one other means determining the conveying path of the web-shaped input material or the material web can also be brought into contact with the input material or the material web.The material track can be brought or brought.

[0028] Preferably, the forming device comprises at least one folding means, such as a folding roller. The forming device comprises at least one folding means, such as a folding roller, which presses against the web of material transversely to the longitudinal direction of the web between the opposing longitudinal edges to introduce two wings projecting from a pocket base into the web-shaped starting material. Preferably, the folding means presses against the web in the web width direction, particularly centrally between the opposing longitudinal edges.

[0029] According to a preferred embodiment, the deflection relative to a vertical direction is arranged in an upper inlet area, in particular at an upper end, of the forming device, wherein in particular the web-shaped starting material is guided in the forming device with a conveying direction that is oriented downwards relative to a vertical direction.

[0030] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the system, the feed device is designed and configured to push the leading edge of the web-shaped input material through the guide from the feed device to the forming device. In particular, the feed device is designed to push the leading edge of the web-shaped input material vertically upwards from the feed device through the guide to the forming device. Preferably, the pushing feed device is intended for use with a web-shaped input material comprising or consisting of paper or cardboard, especially corrugated cardboard, and is particularly combined with such material. The pushing feed device is preferably designed and configured to convey the web-shaped input material through the guide over a distance of at least 20 cm, and in particular at least 50 cm.Surprisingly, it has been shown that, contrary to expectations and common misconceptions, web-shaped feed material can be fed to a forming device using a guide system. By pushing the web material through the guide system to the forming device via a motor-driven feeder, the need for tedious manual threading is eliminated. With this system, the web-shaped feed material can even be conveyed over greater distances within the system, as well as along curved or S-shaped paths, with typical track lengths of up to 150 cm, depending on the system design.

[0031] According to one embodiment of the system, the feeding device can comprise at least one driven feeding roller and at least one cooperating feeding roller, in particular a driven or driven one. The feeding device has an operating position in which the driven feeding roller and the cooperating feeding roller are brought close together to grip the web-shaped input material, wherein in particular a preload force pushes the driven feeding roller and the cooperating feeding roller against each other, and wherein the feeding device has a setup position in which the driven feeding roller and the cooperating feeding roller are arranged at a distance from each other.

[0032] According to a further development of the system, the feed device has an operating state in which it is designed to subject the web-shaped starting material to a first, in particular fast and / or variable, take-off speed, and a setup state in which the feed device (110) is designed to subject the web-shaped starting material to a second, in particular slow and / or constant, take-off speed. The average, in particular constant, take-off speed in the operating state is significantly higher than the average take-off speed in the setup state, preferably at least twice as high, and particularly preferably at least 5 or 10 times as high.

[0033] In particular, the system may include a supply of web material, especially a supply roll, of the web-shaped starting material, from which the feed device draws in the web-shaped starting material, wherein the feed device and the web supply are coordinated in such a way that the feed device transfers the web-shaped starting material to the guiding device with a curvature directed upwards in the vertical direction, especially a supply roll curvature, and / or an adhesive coating oriented upwards in the vertical direction.

[0034] According to one embodiment of the invention, a system for converting a web-shaped input material into packaging bags is provided, comprising a feed device and a forming device. It is provided that the deflection relative to a vertical direction is arranged at an upper inlet region of the forming device and / or that the deflection imposes at least one turn on the web-shaped input material between the feed device and the forming device. Preferably, the forming device, together with its upstream deflection and / or together with a downstream feed device, defines a conveying path for the material web, along which the material web moves downstream during operation.The vertical direction can be defined as the direction extending orthogonally relative to a support surface, such as a hall floor, on which the system is to be arranged or is arranged. The vertical direction preferably corresponds to the direction in which gravity acts. It is preferred that the conveying direction at the output of the forming process corresponds to the conveying direction at the input and / or through the forming device. A turn can be described by a U-shaped conveying path of the web-like input material, wherein the U can be oriented, for example, vertically or inverted. An S-shaped conveying path of the web-like input material comprises two turns, wherein the web-like input material can be guided according to a horizontal or vertical S. It is conceivable that the web-like input material is guided along a W- or M-shaped conveying path with three turns.By means of one or more turns, tensions can be provided in the system to guide the web-shaped input material and to prepare it for pocket forming. In an embodiment of the deflection and the forming device, each with at least one partially cylindrical or cylindrical, in particular rotating, means that determines the conveying path of the web-shaped input material or the material web, it may be preferred that the cylindrical and / or rotary axes of these means are aligned parallel to each other. By incorporating a deflection, the system for converting a web-shaped input material into packaging pockets can be implemented in a particularly space-saving manner. Furthermore, by providing a deflection, the risk of tearing of the web-shaped input material can be significantly reduced.

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment of the system, the deflection is arranged relative to a vertical direction above the feed device and / or optionally above a supply of material webs. It is preferred that the conveying direction at the inlet of the forming process corresponds to the conveying direction at the outlet and / or through the forming device. In an embodiment of the deflection and the feed device, each with at least one partially cylindrical or cylindrical, in particular rotating, means that determines the conveying path of the web-shaped input material, it is preferred that the cylindrical and / or rotary axes of these means are aligned parallel to each other. Arranging the deflection above the feed device allows for further space savings.By using an upper deflection system instead of a material web reservoir located at the top, as is the case in prior art, the system is much easier to handle during both maintenance and loading with new feed material compared to conventional systems. Advantageously, the material reservoir and the feed device can be arranged directly above one another in the vertical direction, or they can be slightly offset from each other and essentially stacked one above the other in the vertical direction. To make handling the material reservoir as easy as possible, especially during replacement and refilling, the feed device is preferably arranged above the material reservoir.The material supply and the feed device are arranged adjacent to the forming device, particularly directly next to each other, enabling an extremely compact system design for converting a web-like input material into packaging bags. A particularly compact design can be achieved by arranging the deflection above the feed device and / or the forming device. In this way, the deflection can also contribute to a particularly compact system design. Furthermore, the deflection can preferably be designed as a roller. The web-like input material runs over the deflection, in particular the deflection roller. If the deflection is designed as a roller, especially an ideal cylindrical roller, the material web exits the deflection in a flat shape, following the contour of the deflection, and makes the web-like input material available to the forming device for further processing in the downstream forming device.

[0036] According to one embodiment of the system, the web-shaped input material is guided in the forming device with a conveying direction that is oriented downwards relative to a vertical direction. It is preferred that the forming device, optionally together with the deflection provided upstream of the forming device and / or together with a feeding device provided downstream of the forming device, defines a conveying path for the material web which is oriented downwards in the vertical direction along the conveying path through the forming device and / or at the outlet of the forming device. Preferably, the web-shaped input material extends with its web width direction at the deflection, particularly flat, along a contact line or contact surface of the deflection with the web-shaped input material.While it is common practice in the prior art to align the conveying direction of the material web horizontally in forming devices and to feed the web-shaped starting material to the forming device in a horizontal direction, further space savings can be achieved through the design according to the invention.

[0037] Optionally, the forming device comprises at least two folding elements arranged one behind the other in the conveying direction. The folding elements can be implemented, for example, by guide rail sections, rigid sliding discs, mandrels, folding rollers, or the like. The folding elements preferably constitute means of the forming device that determine the conveying path of the material web. The forming device and / or a feeding device define a guide surface for the pocket base. Preferably, the guide surface is designed to guide and / or support the V- or U-shaped formed material web in the area of ​​the pocket base and / or between opposing wings of the material web. It may be preferred that the guide surface, at least in sections, constitutes a means that determines the conveying path of the web-shaped starting material or the material web, and that can be brought into contact with the starting material or the material web.The guide surface can be designed, in particular, as a stop for objects used or usable in a loading device, such as shipping items. A deflection axis defined by the deflection mechanism, in particular the deflection roller, is oriented transversely, in particular perpendicularly to the conveying direction along the guide surface and / or offset from the guide surface.

[0038] According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one first folding means, such as a first folding roller, is arranged between the guide surface and the deflection axis. Preferably, the second folding means, for example, the outer circumference of a second folding roller, corresponds to the position of the guide surface. It is particularly preferred that a distance perpendicular to the guide surface between the first folding means and the guide surface measures at least one-eighth, in particular at least one-quarter, preferably at least one-third and / or not more than three-quarters, in particular not more than two-thirds, preferably not more than half, of the distance orthogonal to the guide surface between the deflection axis and the guide surface. It should be understood that the second folding means is arranged further away from the deflection point in the conveying direction than the first folding means.In a forming device with multiple folding rollers or the like, it may be preferred that the cylinder and / or rotary axes of these folding elements are aligned parallel to each other. Additionally or alternatively, it may be provided that the cylinder and / or rotary axes of the folding elements, in particular folding rollers, are aligned parallel to the deflection axis. Surprisingly, it has been shown that, thanks to the use of multiple folding elements in the forming device, a reliable, reproducible, and rapid forming of a web-shaped input material web into a formed material web with a V- or U-shaped cross-section along a particularly short extension in the longitudinal direction corresponding to the conveying direction is achievable with a low risk of breakage.

[0039] According to one embodiment of the system, the guide surface can be defined by at least one counter bearing, in particular at least one counter bearing roller or a sliding surface, corresponding to at least one folding element, such as folding rollers, especially the second folding roller. With the aid of at least one counter bearing roller, in particular several counter bearing rollers, and / or at least one sliding surface, in particular several sliding surfaces, wherein in particular counter bearing rollers and sliding surfaces can be provided alternately in the conveying direction, a reliable counter bearing can be realized on the guide surface to support the bottom of the pocket and, if applicable, objects that can be inserted or are inserted into the receiving cavity, such as shipping items.In a counter-bearing system comprising counter-bearing rollers and sliding surfaces, it can be provided that, in the case of counter-bearing rollers and sliding surfaces arranged one behind the other in the conveying direction, at least one counter-bearing roller is slightly raised relative to the at least one adjacent sliding surface, wherein, in particular, the plane tangentially adjacent to the counter-bearing roller, and especially to several immediately adjacent counter-bearing rollers, lies at a distance from the sliding surface. This distance can be dimensioned such that, during conveying, the bottom of the pocket rests against the counter-bearing roller(s) and is conveyed with low friction, with the at least one additional sliding surface available for support, depending on the load condition. The aforementioned distance is in the range of 1 mm to 3 mm and is typically 1.5 mm.

[0040] In a further embodiment of the system of the invention, a third folding means, in particular a third folding roller, is arranged between the guide surface and the first folding means, such as the first folding roller. Optionally, a third and, if necessary, further folding means can be arranged in the conveying direction and / or in the direction orthogonal to the guide surface between the first and the second folding means.

[0041] According to one embodiment of the system according to the invention, the forming device comprises at least one folding roll, preferably two or three folding rolls. The at least one folding roll, in particular the two or three folding rolls, each comprise two rolling discs spaced apart in the roll's axial direction. A spacer may be provided between the rolling discs. The V- or U-shape of the formed material web can be determined by the spacing of the rolling discs of the at least one folding roll in the axial direction. In particular, the transverse width of the pocket base can be determined by the spacing of the rolling discs of a folding roll in the axial direction.

[0042] Preferably, the folding rollers are interchangeable and / or adjustable. This makes it possible to easily and quickly adapt the system to a different material or to a different material of the web-like starting material. It is also possible to easily and quickly adapt the web to a desired V- or U-shape. A material web formed with a V-shaped cross-section has one, preferably exactly one, groove created by one, and in particular exactly one, folding roller, along which a disc-shaped rolling disc preferably runs. Regardless of the number of grooves, it can be advantageous to use rolling discs that run along the groove and mechanically shape the groove during the forming process in such a way that the forming process is facilitated and simplified, requiring less force.

[0043] According to a further development of the system, the center distance between the deflection axis and the roller axis of the first folding roller, preferably in the direction parallel to the guide surface, is at least 10 mm, particularly at least 120 mm, and / or not more than 300 mm, particularly not more than 220 mm, preferably about 168 mm. The deflection means can optionally have a smaller outer diameter than the first folding roller. It has been shown that with such a center distance, a significant transformation of a web-shaped input material into a material web with a V- or U-shaped cross-section can be achieved along a short distance in the conveying direction.

[0044] In one embodiment of the system, the turning distance between a material web contact area of ​​the first folding element, in particular the first folding roller, preferably its outer circumference, facing the guide surface, and a deflection contact area of ​​the deflecting element, in particular the deflecting roller, facing away from the guide surface, measures at least 10 mm, in particular at least 40 mm, and / or not more than 300 mm, in particular not more than 80 mm, preferably about 70 mm. It may be preferred that the turning distance is determined in the direction perpendicular to the guide surface.

[0045] In one embodiment of the system, the forming length from the deflection point, in particular the deflection roller, to the second folding element, in particular the roller axis of the second folding roller, preferably to a feeding opening, is not greater than 120 cm. In particular, the forming length is not greater than 100 cm, preferably not greater than 80 cm. Alternatively or additionally, it is provided that the forming length is not greater than twice the initial width of the web-shaped input material, in particular not greater than 1.5 times the initial width.

[0046] According to one embodiment of the system for forming a web-shaped input material into packaging bags, the forming device comprises at least a pair of guide elements, such as guide rods, positioned opposite each other in the web width direction, for guiding the web-shaped input material along a path that tapers in the conveying direction. The pair of guide elements can, for example, be configured to form an initially flat, web-shaped input material by bending or folding at least one wing extending along a first (for example, right in the conveying direction) or second (for example, left in the conveying direction) longitudinal edge towards the other wing. The pair of guide elements can define the conveying path of the web-shaped input material.The folding means, which determines the material web, are arranged to the right or left with respect to the conveying direction, and optionally upstream and / or downstream relative to the folding means. Preferably, the folding means, together with the pair of guide means, causes a deformation of an initially flat, web-like extension. Other guide means can have a plurality of individual rollers, thereby reducing friction in the conveying direction.

[0047] According to one embodiment of the invention, a system for converting a web-shaped input material into packaging bags is provided, comprising a feeding device and a forming device. A deflection element, for example a deflection roller, is preferably designed and configured for introducing the web-shaped input material into the forming device. Optionally, the system includes a clamping device, such as a support roller. The clamping device defines a clamping axis that is aligned in the web width direction.The clamping device can be brought into contact with the web-shaped input material or is in contact with it in order to force the web-shaped input material into a compensatory movement transverse to the conveying direction and transverse to the web width direction, particularly under the influence of force, whereby the web-shaped input material is subjected to a predetermined tension or clamping force so that it is always taut between the infeed device and the conveying device and does not sag. The clamping device is arranged in or on the infeed device in the conveying direction, preferably at the exit area of ​​the infeed device. In particular, the clamping device is arranged on or in the guide device. Preferably, the clamping device is designed to perform a compensating movement in the vertical direction upwards and / or downwards.

[0048] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the clamping device is pre-tensioned. The pre-tension forces the clamping device to move in a compensating manner. Preferably, the pre-tensioning force is directed against a force acting on the clamping device by the web-shaped starting material. In particular, the clamping device is pre-tensioned by a mechanical spring. Alternatively or additionally, the clamping device has a clamping mass. The clamping mass can force the clamping device vertically downwards in the direction of gravity. Preferably, the clamping device is free of compressed air. By avoiding a compressed air actuator, for example, a pneumatic piston, the energy and / or space requirements of the system can be minimized.

[0049] In one embodiment of the invention, the clamping device is movably mounted on the infeed device. The clamping device is generally mounted so that it can move transversely to the conveying direction. In particular, the clamping device can be mounted so that it can move vertically. Preferably, the clamping device is mounted so that it can move transversely to the conveying direction with a vertical component of movement, for example, along an incline or an arc. The infeed device can, for example, have a linear guide in which the clamping device is held. Alternatively, the infeed device can have a pivotable bearing or a pair of pivotable bearings that pivotably hold the clamping device on the infeed device. Alternatively, the clamping device is pivotally mounted on the frame of the system.

[0050] Another embodiment of the invention provides that the clamping device includes at least one position sensor, such as a contact sensor. The feed device is preferably designed and configured to apply a feed rate to the web-shaped input material depending on the position sensor, with the feed device switching a drive on or off depending on a threshold value detection, such as the detection of an input position. When the drive is in an active state, it drives the feed device to draw the web-shaped input material from the material web supply. When the drive is inactive, it does not actuate the feed device. In this way, it can be ensured that a sufficient supply of input material is always available for continuous and rapid operation of the system. At the same time, material jams and material breaks are avoided.As an alternative to the aforementioned two-point control method, other control methods are also conceivable. For example, a three-point controller can, in addition to the (first) active and inactive states, switch a (second active) operating state of the drive with a conveying speed that is faster or slower than the conveying speed of the (first) active state. Alternatively or additionally, the controller can be designed as a continuous controller, for example, connected to a position sensor or angle sensor for continuously detecting the actual position of the clamping device.

[0051] Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment of the system includes a force sensor, in particular for measuring an absolute force acting upon it. A component of the detected force relates to the tension force of the web-shaped input material under preload. The force sensor can be arranged on a bearing and / or support of the deflection and / or the feed device, or at another suitable location within the system. The force sensor, as well as the drive and / or the feed device, are part of a drive control loop. Preferably, the drive control loop is designed and configured to maintain the preload of the web-shaped input material at a predefined level at all times, particularly independently of the operation of the conveying device. The drive control loop is preferably designed and configured to ensure a smooth start-up of the conveying device's drive when a conveying movement begins.In particular, the drive control loop is designed and configured to gradually increase the conveying speed of the web material. Alternatively or additionally, the drive control loop is designed and configured to gently and gradually reduce the conveying speed to a standstill during a shutdown process. Such a system configuration with a drive control loop can be implemented without a clamping device.

[0052] According to an optional embodiment of the invention, the feeding device comprises at least one creasing element for introducing at least one longitudinal groove, in particular at least one longitudinal center groove, preferably two or three longitudinal center grooves, into the web-shaped starting material. Preferably, the at least one creasing element is matched to a folding means, in particular at least one, preferably first, folding roller. Advantageously, the system can be equipped with at least one creasing element designed to introduce one or more grooves in the longitudinal direction of the web into the web-shaped starting material, which preferably comprises or consists of paper or cardboard, in order to improve the forming process of the web-shaped starting material along the longitudinal grooves by the folding means. Preferably, the introduction of the at least one longitudinal groove is carried out in accordance with DE 10 2020 114 1 A1.

[0053] Alternatively or additionally, the at least one creasing element comprises a stationary knife, preferably Teflon-coated, or at least one rotatably mounted creasing disc. Such a creasing element allows grooves to be reliably cut into the web-shaped starting material with a low risk of tearing.

[0054] Alternatively or additionally, at least one creasing element is spring-loaded and / or mounted without compressed air. By pre-tensioning the creasing element, preferably by means of at least one mechanical spring and / or without a pneumatic actuator, the required forming force can be optimally adjusted to ensure fast and reliable forming by the system.

[0055] According to one embodiment of a spring-loaded and / or pneumatically supported grooving element, this element presses at least one grooving element against a grooving counter-bearing, such as a counter-bearing roller. The grooving counter-bearing is preferably implemented separately from a driven and / or driven feed roller of the feed device.

[0056] One embodiment of the system for converting a web-shaped input material into packaging bags further comprises a conveying device for removing the web-shaped input material formed in the forming device, wherein the conveying device includes a pair of cooperating conveying rollers for gripping at least one longitudinal edge of the material web with a V- or U-shaped cross-section. It may be preferred that the cooperating conveying rollers have an ideally cylindrical and / or smooth outer circumferential surface.

[0057] In a further development of the system with a conveying device, it is provided that the conveying rollers comprise a first conveying roller which has at least one convex circumferential embossing projection and a second conveying roller with at least one embossing recess which is complementary to the embossing projection.

[0058] According to an alternative or additional embodiment of the system with a conveying device, the conveying rollers perform a longitudinal seal. The conveying rollers are designed and configured to press two opposing wings of the material web with a V- or U-shaped cross-section against each other with a sealing pressure of at least 0.5 bar, in particular at least 1 bar, preferably at least 1.5 bar, in order to form a longitudinal strip that defines the packaging pocket. The sealing pressure can be adjusted to the adhesive used. A sealing pressure of 1 bar corresponds to a bonding force of 10 Newtons per square centimeter acting on the packaging pocket.

[0059] The conveying rollers are optionally designed with a friction-fit outer surface to ensure reliable material conveying. For this purpose, the outer surface can be profiled. This profiling can be in the form of ribbing or knurling. Alternatively, the outer surface can be smooth and / or rubberized. The conveying rollers themselves preferably rotate in pairs in opposite directions, with the two opposing wings of the material web being guided between them, thus sealing them. Furthermore, the conveying rollers pull the web-shaped input material through the upstream forming device, with the drive for the conveying rollers optionally also driving the forming process.It may be provided that, during and / or as a result of the conveying of the web-shaped input material by the rollers of the conveying device, the feed device is activated as a reaction, in particular in such a way that material is fed from the material supply and / or that the tension of the web-shaped input material is always ensured.

[0060] It may be preferable for the conveyor rollers to be equipped with only one drive. Both conveyor rollers can be coupled to each other via a gearbox. Alternatively, only one of the two conveyor rollers is driven, while the other rotates freely as a support and joining roller. In a further variant, the driven conveyor roller can be designed as a friction-fit conveyor roller, in particular featuring profiling and / or rubber coating on its outer surface.

[0061] Another embodiment of the system for converting a web-like input material into packaging bags, which can be combined with the previous one, further includes a loading device. The loading device has a loading opening through which shipping items or goods can be inserted into the receiving cavity of the formed material web.

[0062] According to a further development of a system with a feeding device, the feeding device comprises two guides adjacent to the feeding opening and positioned transversely to the conveying direction for opposing wings, in particular longitudinal edges, of the material web with a V- or U-shaped cross-section. The guides can be implemented, for example, by guide surfaces, guide rollers, and / or guide cylinders. The guides are arranged upstream in the conveying direction and / or in the area of ​​the feeding opening, in particular at the level of the feeding opening.

[0063] According to another embodiment, the system for converting a web-shaped input material into packaging bags further comprises at least one sealing device for sealing at least one transverse strip and / or one longitudinal strip of the transformed web-shaped input material and / or a separating device for separating a packaging bag from the input material web along a transverse strip.

[0064] Preferred embodiments are given in the dependent claims.

[0065] Further properties, features and advantages of the invention will be clarified below by describing preferred embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying exemplary drawings, which show: Fig. 1a a side view of a first embodiment of a system for forming a web-shaped starting material into shipping bags; Fig. 1b a side view of a second embodiment of a system for forming a web-shaped input material into shipping bags; Fig. 2 a perspective view of a second embodiment of a system for forming a web-shaped input material into shipping bags; Fig. 3 a detailed view of a design of a guide device; Fig. 3a a system for forming a web-shaped starting material with a different design of a guiding device; Fig. 3b a system for forming a web-shaped starting material with a further embodiment of a guiding device; Fig. 3c a system for forming a web-shaped starting material with a further guide device variant; Fig. 4 a side view of a feed device with grooving elements; and Fig. 5 a schematic representation of a separation and sealing device.

[0066] To simplify readability, the following description of preferred embodiments of the various aspects of the invention that can be realized individually or combined uses the same or similar reference numerals for the same or similar components of different embodiments of systems for converting a web-shaped starting material into packaging bags. Those skilled in the art will understand that, although the embodiments of a system described below may embody several aspects of the invention that can be combined with one another, the various aspects can each be realized individually or in any combination.

[0067] A system according to the invention for converting a web-shaped starting material, which defines a web longitudinal direction and extends between two longitudinal edges opposite each other in the web width direction, in particular a web-shaped starting material made of paper or cardboard, into packaging bags is generally provided with the reference numeral 100.

[0068] The web-shaped starting material 1 is preferably made of or consists of cardboard or paper. In addition to cardboard or paper, the starting material 1 may comprise an adhesive or the like for sealing the packaging bags 11 to be formed.

[0069] As in the Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b or Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the web-shaped starting material 1 for the system 100 can be provided as a material web supply 2, for example, in the form of a supply roll. The material web supply 2 is preferably arranged near the ground so that even heavy, large material web supplies 2 can be used without cranes or similar lifting aids. Instead, for example, a mobile support frame 20 can be used for a material web supply 2, as shown in Figure 2. Fig. 2. The support frame 20 itself can be mechanically coupled to the system 100, for example, attached, to achieve optimized alignment of the web-shaped input material 1 relative to the feed device 110. The web-shaped input material 1, wound into the material web supply 2, has a web width direction B. The extent of the input material 1 in the web width direction B, or width of the web-shaped input material, corresponds to the cylinder height of the coil-shaped material web supply 2. The opposing circular base surfaces of the coil-shaped or cylindrical material web supply 2 are formed by the opposing longitudinal edges 6 of the input material web 1. To form the coil-shaped material web supply 2, the input material web 1 is wound in the direction of its longitudinal web direction L.

[0070] System 100 and, if applicable, the support frame 20 stand on a surface, such as a hall floor, which extends essentially horizontally. A vertical direction V extends orthogonally on this surface and / or in the direction of gravity.

[0071] To process the web-like input material 1 into a multitude of packaging bags 11 by the system 100, the input material web 1 is guided through the system 100 with its longitudinal direction L according to a conveying direction F, and is pulled through, thereby being unwound from the roll-like material web supply 2. Within the various components of the system 100, the local conveying direction F, along which the web-like material 1 is moved, can be variable with respect to the vertical direction V as well as with respect to a horizontal direction.

[0072] The conveying path of the input material conveyor 1 through system 100 according to the in Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b or Fig. The process shown in the two exemplary embodiments generally proceeds (in successive order according to the following list of system components) from a material web supply 2 through a feed device 110, along a clamping device, such as a support roller 115, to a deflection point, such as a deflection roller 120, and then through a forming device 130 and to a subsequent feeding device 150, as well as to a conveying device 170 and a sealing device 180, and finally to a cutting device 190. From the feed device 110 to the forming device 130, the web-shaped starting material is guided within a channel 201 of a guide device 200.

[0073] A web-shaped input material 1 with sufficient stiffness is pushed from the feed device 110 through the guide device 200 to the forming device 130. For example, after replacing a used supply of material web with a fresh supply of material web 2, the free leading edge of the web-shaped input material can be pushed by the conveying movement of the feed device 110 through the channel 201 to the inlet 139 of the forming device 130. It may be advantageous to shape the web-shaped input material 1 as shown in Fig. 1a and Fig. As shown in Figure 1b, the material is drawn from the supply roll in such a way that the leading edge of the input material forms an upward curve in the vertical direction corresponding to the curvature of the supply roll, thus preventing the leading edge from tilting against the lower guide element 210. If the leading edge of the web-shaped input material 1 has a slight upward curve in the guide device 200, this facilitates the sliding of the input material web 1 on the inside of the channel 203 in the form of the first, lower guide element 210. The upper inside of the channel 205 in the form of the upper guide element 220 prevents the input material from coiling up according to its supply roll curvature or from otherwise deviating from the intended conveying direction F from the outlet area 119 of the feed device 110 to the inlet area 139 of the forming device 130.

[0074] If the web-shaped starting material 1 is equipped with an adhesive, such as an adhesive or the like, for sealing the packaging bags 11 to be formed, it may be advantageous to pull the web-shaped starting material 1 from the supply roll 2 in such a way that the side of the starting material 1 coated with adhesive is oriented upwards in the vertical direction V, so that the adhesive does not come into large-area contact with the lower inner surface of the channel 203 due to gravity.

[0075] In the exemplary embodiments shown here, the web-shaped starting material 1 extends from the material web supply 2 to the deflecting roller 120 in the web width direction B, essentially flat, particularly in a horizontal direction. At the deflecting roller 120, the starting material web undergoes a turn. Starting from the deflection at the inlet area 139 of the forming device 130, the web-shaped starting material 1 is formed in the forming device 130 into a material web with a V- or U-shaped cross-section and a receiving cavity 9 extending in the web longitudinal direction L. The receiving cavity 9 is bounded on one side by a pocket base 7 and on both sides by wings 8 projecting transversely to the conveying direction F and / or the web longitudinal direction L, and extends in the web longitudinal direction L. The material web 5 with a V- or U-shaped cross-section is transferred from the forming device 130 to the feeding device 150.The loading device 150 has a loading opening 151 opposite the pocket base 7, through which shipping items can be inserted into the receiving cavity 9. The conveying device 170 pulls the cross-sectional or U-shaped material web 5, containing at least one shipping item, from the loading device 150 in the conveying direction F. A sealing device 180 introduces transverse strips 15 and longitudinal strips 16 into the V- or U-shaped material web 5 to form packaging pockets 11. The transverse strip 15 and the longitudinal strip 16 can be introduced by different components and / or mechanisms of the sealing device 180. The separating device 190 separates the packaging pockets 11, each containing at least one shipping item, from the material web 1.The sealing device 180 can be formed at least partially in functional union with the conveying device 170 and / or the separating device 190, as shown below by reference to . Fig. 5 is described as an example.

[0076] To pull the material web 5 in the conveying direction F, the conveying device has 170 conveying rollers arranged opposite each other and rotating in opposite directions. Between the conveying rollers, the spaced-apart wings 8 of the material web, with a V- or U-shaped cross-section, are inserted at the inlet. During the conveying process, the wings 8 are moved further towards each other. The wings 8 can be pressed together between the conveying rollers during conveying, thereby sealing the edge area of ​​the wings 8 between the conveying rollers to form the longitudinal strips 16. Upon insertion of the longitudinal strip 16, the receiving cavity 9 can be closed immediately, transverse to the web's longitudinal direction L.The at least one shipping item is then enclosed on three sides of the material web, namely on the side of the pocket base 7, on the side of the sealing produced by the conveyor rollers 171 and 172 in the form of the longitudinal strips 16 in the web longitudinal direction L and on the side of the end face of the material web by the sealing device 180.

[0077] In an alternative embodiment, sealing rollers (not shown in detail) are provided as a pair of rollers, arranged opposite each other and positioned upstream of the conveying rollers in the conveying direction F. Each sealing roller is rotatably mounted, with at least one of the bearings being movably arranged by means of force application and being movable relative to the other sealing roller.

[0078] According to a first embodiment, the sealing device 180 is positioned upstream of the separating device 190 in the conveying direction F. In terms of process, the sealing device 180 first closes the material web at its still open side, so that the at least one shipping item is now completely enveloped and enclosed by the material of the web. Advantageously, the closing and sealing is carried out by means of and between two jaws, which extend over the entire width of the packaging pocket 11 and thus transversely to the longitudinal direction L of the web. At least one of the jaws is slidably driven by a motor such that the at least one motor-driven jaw exerts a force of 1 bar or 10 newtons per square centimeter on the material web from the outside, thereby sealing and forming the transverse strip 15. The packaging pocket 11 is then formed and surrounds the shipping item.

[0079] Subsequently, individual packaging pouches 11 can be separated from the material web and thus singulated in a further process step using the separating device 190. Alternatively, the separation and singulation of the packaging pouch 11 can also be carried out in the process sequence described above, provided that the sealing is carried out in the final process step, for example, as described above. For this purpose, it can be advantageous if at least one slidably driven jaw fixes the separated shipping pouch 11 by means of a counter jaw, and the sealing or the generation of the transverse strip 15 takes place directly in conjunction with the separation and singulation from the material web. However, it is and remains essential in these embodiments and process sequences that the sealing device 180 is at least partially functionally combined with the separating device 190.

[0080] Fig. Figure 1a shows a side view of a first embodiment of the system 100 for converting the web-shaped starting material 1, which is made of paper or cardboard in particular, into packaging bags 11. A feed device 110 pulls the web-shaped starting material 1 from the material web supply 2. The feed device 110 is arranged vertically V above the material web supply 2.

[0081] Downstream of the infeed device 110, the web-shaped input material 1, which may have been formed into a grooved material web 3 in the infeed device 110 by means of a grooving element 105, is guided along a support roller 115. The support roller 115 can be referred to as a float roller or dancer roller. The support roller 115 is attached to the system 100, in the embodiment according to Fig. 1a is mounted on the infeed device 110, movably transverse to the conveying direction F. The support roller 115 is held movable to perform an evasive movement a relative to the infeed device 110 and / or a deflection 120. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 1a, the deflection movement a can be aligned in the vertical direction V. Preferably, the support roller incorporates a tensioning element. It holds the web-shaped input material 1, or optionally the grooved material web, taut to a predetermined degree between the feed device 110 and the conveying device 170.

[0082] The support roller 115 can, for example, be pre-tensioned downwards in the vertical direction V by a mass, in particular its own weight. Alternatively or additionally, the support roller 115 can be spring-tensioned to allow for a deflection movement. The support roller 115 is preferably designed without a pneumatic actuator. Contrary to the pre-tension of the support roller 5, the tension force of the web-shaped input material 1 acts as a result of a tensile force acting on the input material web 1 in the conveying direction F by a conveying device 170. The support roller can compensate for discontinuities between the conveying speed when the web-shaped input material web 1 is pulled from the material web supply 2 on the one hand, and the conveying speed at the conveying device 170 and / or the separating device 190 on the other.By shifting the support roller 115 in the direction of the compensating movement a, the conveying path from the infeed device 110 to the feed device 150 is lengthened, so that a buffer quantity of web-shaped input material 1 can be maintained along the conveying path. The support roller 115 is framed vertically by beak sections 215, 225 of the guide elements 210, 220 of the guide device 200, which ensure a safe transfer of the material web from the output area 119 of the infeed device into the guide device 200.

[0083] At the inlet area 139 of the forming device 130, a deflection element is arranged, which in the exemplary embodiment shown here is implemented as a deflection roller 120. The web-shaped input material 1 is supported along the deflection axis U against the deflection roller 120 before being conveyed through the forming device 130. The deflection roller 120 extends in the direction of the deflection axis U over more than the outlet width b of the input material web 1.

[0084] Fig. Figure 1b shows another embodiment of a system 100, which differs from the system in Fig. 1a differs in the design of the control device 200, which will be explained in detail later. Otherwise, the system design corresponds to in Fig. 1b of the execution in Fig. 1a.

[0085] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the guide device 200 bridges the path of the web-shaped input material from the feed device 110 to the deflection roller 120 at the entrance area 139 of the forming device. The guide device 200 is formed by sheet-like rigid guide elements 211, 221, between which a channel 201 is provided for the input material. The width of the guide device 200 essentially corresponds to the output width b of the web material. As shown in Figure 2, the guide device 200 is formed by sheet-like rigid guide elements 211, 221, between which a channel 201 is provided for the input material. Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the lower guide plate 211 has a width corresponding to the axial extent of the deflection roller 120, corresponding to the initial width b. The upper guide plate 221 has a smaller width. The upper guide plate 221 extends only about one-tenth of the axial extent of the deflection roller 120, corresponding to the initial width b. The upper guide plate 221 is arranged predominantly on an inclined surface. At the discharge area 119 of the feed device 110, the rigid guide element 221 forms a horizontal beak section 225, which is located above the (in Fig. 2 non-visible) dancers extend into the exit area 119 to ensure safe introduction of the material track into the guide device 210.

[0086] Fig. Figure 3 shows a deflection with a deflection roller 120 and a retaining belt 125 in the inlet area 139 of the forming process 130. The web-shaped starting material 1 is guided along a circumferential contact area 121. The circumferential contact area 121 extends in the Fig. 3 illustrated exemplary versions accordingly Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b over more than 90° around the outer circumference of the deflection roller 120. The retaining belt 125 is in contact with part of the circumferential contact area 121. The retaining belt 125 prevents the web-shaped input material 1 from lifting off the deflection roller 120, which could otherwise lead to material jams or material tears. The retaining belt 125 serves as a threading aid or guide 200 when a new web of material is fed into the machine, as described in detail below. If the retaining belt 125 rests against the deflection roller with slight tension, this can be sufficient to hold the web of material between the deflection roller 120 and the belt 125. This prevents the input material from being pulled back by gravity or by the dancer roller.Preferably, the driven belt deflection pulley has a freewheel that does not impede the conveying movement of the input material 1 when it moves in the conveying direction F, for example, when the drive motor of the belt is switched off or active.

[0087] At the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the guide device 200 extends with both the upper guide element 220 and the lower guide element 210 to the entrance area 139 of the forming device 130. The rigid guide elements 211, 221 are, as above with regard to Fig. 1 or Fig. 2 described, formed as guide plates and end in the immediate vicinity of the outer circumference of the deflection roller 120.

[0088] The guide elements 211, 221 delimit the channel 201. The channel height is less than 5 cm, in particular less than 2.5 cm, preferably less than 1 cm and / or at least 5 mm. In a first embodiment in Fig. 1a and Fig. 3a The distance between the guide elements 211 and 221 decreases, and thus the channel height of the channel 201 from the feed device 110 in the conveying direction F to the deflection roller 120 decreases continuously. Therefore, the lower guide plate 211 and the upper guide plate 221 have different slopes with respect to the horizontal direction. The slope of the upper guide plate 221 is less than that of the lower guide plate 211. This provides sufficient space for the dancer 115. In another embodiment in Fig. 1b and Fig. 3b The guide elements 211 and 221 are spaced apart by the channel height and aligned parallel to each other. In this embodiment, the lower guide plate 211 and the upper guide plate 221 thus have the same slope with respect to the horizontal direction.

[0089] The channel 201 is open in the web width direction B, perpendicular to the conveying direction F and the vertical direction V. The channel 201 is oriented tangentially to the beginning of the circumferential contact area 121. The upper guide element 220 has a flap 223 projecting upwards in the vertical direction V at the inlet area 139, which extends towards the belt deflection roller 126 and the retaining belt 125 carried by it. The flap 223 ensures that the starting material is reliably guided into the forming device 130 at the inlet area 139.

[0090] Preferably, one of the belt deflection rollers 126 is driven. The belt roller drive serves as a setup aid. With the aid of the belt roller drive, the belt 125, and thus the material web, can be gradually advanced at a slower speed by the setup operator at the push of a button. This allows the operator to concentrate fully on threading the new input material through the forming unit 130 and the conveying device 170 to the cutting unit 190. Once the machine is set up, the freewheel engages and the belt runs loosely – but remains under tension in contact with the web-shaped input material 1.

[0091] At the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the retaining belt 125 is guided along three belt deflection pulleys 126, 127, 128, of which, for example, one belt deflection pulley 126 can be driven and one belt deflection pulley 127 can be movably mounted to maintain belt tension. The driven belt pulley 126 can provide a driving force for conveying the input material web 1. Optionally, the belt pulley 126 is equipped with a freewheel, which is arranged between the drive motor and the retaining belt 125 itself. This facilitates the commissioning of the system 100 or when a new material web 5 is fed into the system 100. A second belt deflection pulley 128 is arranged horizontally next to the upstream, driven belt deflection pulley 126. The deflection pulley 120 is positioned centrally between the belt deflection pulleys 126 and 128, slightly offset downwards in the vertical direction V.The downstream belt deflection pulley 127 is positioned vertically below the pulley 128 located above it in the vertical direction V. The deflection axis U of the deflection pulley 120 is located between the two belt deflection pulleys 127 and 128 in the vertical direction V. The retaining belt 125 extends significantly shorter than the deflection pulley 120 in the direction of the deflection axis U. A curved guide plate 123 is arranged between the downstream belt deflection pulley 127 and the deflection pulley 128. The small, arcuate guide plate 123 directs the material web towards the forming roller 131.

[0092] The deflection, implemented here as a deflection roller 120, is arranged in the vertical direction V at the upper end and inlet area 139 of the forming device 130. The deflection roller 120 is also arranged above the feed device 110, which is located above the material web supply 2, and above the outlet area 119 of the feed device 110. In the embodiment according to Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b or Fig. 2 the uppermost component of the system 100. The arrangement of the deflection at the inlet 139 of the forming device 130 allows for a compact design in the horizontal direction, so that the system 100 can be set up in a logistics hall with a small footprint.

[0093] Fig. Figures 3a to 3c show systems 1, which, as above, have respect to the Fig. 1a, Fig. 1b and Fig. 2 are described and differ essentially only in the design of the respective guiding device 200.

[0094] In general, the guide device 200 is designed and configured to guide a leading edge of a web-shaped input material from the feed device 110 to the forming device 130. The guide device 200 bridges the distance between the outlet 119 of the feed device 110 and the inlet 139 of the forming device 130. As shown, the guide device 200 can bridge a height difference between the relatively low outlet 119 of the feed device 110 and the relatively high inlet 139 of the forming device 130. The dancer 115 is arranged at the outlet 119 of the feed device 110. The guide device 200 can extend beyond the dancer towards the feed device 110. The deflection roller 120 or other deflection device is provided at the inlet 139 of the forming device 130.The guide device 200, in particular an upper guide element 220, such as the conveyable guide element 222 in the form of the belt 125, can extend into the inlet area 139 of the forming device 130. An overlap of the guide device 200 on the one hand with the outlet area 119 of the feed device 110 and / or on the other hand with the inlet area 139 of the forming device 130 serves to ensure the safe transfer of the web-shaped input material 1.

[0095] In the Fig. 3a and Fig. In the embodiments shown in 3b, the guide device 200 comprises the conveying guide element 222 and the retaining belt 125, which is guided along three belt deflection pulleys 126, 127, 128. A difference from the previously described version regarding Fig. The variant described in Figure 3 is shown in the arrangement of the downstream belt deflection pulley 127. This variant does not have a guide plate. Instead, the downstream belt deflection pulley 127 is arranged relative to the second belt deflection pulley 128, transversely to the conveying direction F, closer to the conveying path F of the material web. Together with guide plates 221, 211, the belt 125 forms the channel 201.

[0096] At the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3c, the guide device 200 comprises the conveyor-movable guide element 222 and the retaining belt 125, which is guided along four belt deflection pulleys 126, 127, 128, 129. The belt 125 receives the material web very early, in the area of ​​the belt deflection pulley 126 driven by the motor, and guides it to the deflection 120. The belt 125 guides the material web along the circumferential surface of the deflection pulley 120. Together with only one lower guide plate 211, the belt 125 forms the channel 201. In the vertical direction V upwards, the channel is not restricted by a rigid guide element, but only by a conveyor-movable guide element 222.

[0097] In the area from the outlet 119 of the feed device 110 to the deflection roller 120, a guide plate 211 extends below the path of the material web. Between the belt 125 and the guide plate 211, the channel-like guiding device 200 for the material web is defined, the channel height of which gradually decreases. In the area of ​​the vertically movable support roller 115, a wide clearance is thus provided between the guide plate 211 and the belt 125 running from the driven roller to the deflection roller 126, in which the dancer 115 is movable. This is also advantageous if a leading section of the material web is deformed, for example bent, and must be "captured" by the belt 125.

[0098] Three of the four belt deflection pulleys 127, 128, 129 are like the previous ones with regard to Fig. 3a and Fig. Belt deflection pulleys as described in 3b are arranged, wherein in the design according to Fig. 3c The roller 126 is driven and a freewheel (not shown) is arranged between the roller 126 and the drive motor. The alternative belt guide has two belt deflection rollers 128 and 129 in the upper area, which are arranged horizontally offset from each other on opposite sides of the deflection roller 120. According to an alternative (not shown), instead of the two horizontally offset belt deflection rollers 128, 129, only a single belt deflection roller with a sufficiently large diameter to bypass the deflection roller 120 could be provided.

[0099] A forming device 130 is described in detail below. Starting from the deflection point, the input material web 1 is conveyed downwards in the conveying direction F corresponding to the vertical direction V into and through the forming device 130. The longitudinal edges 6 of the material web can remain essentially in the plane defined by the deflection point, which extends from the deflection point to the conveying device 170. The central area of ​​the material web is formed by folding means, implemented here by folding rollers 131, 132, and 133, into a pocket base 7 of a material web 5 with a V- or U-shaped cross-section, which is framed on both sides by wings 8 that extend to the longitudinal edges 6.

[0100] The forming device 130 comprises a first folding roll 131, the roll axis of which is aligned parallel to the deflection axis U and offset from the deflection axis U. In the conveying direction F, an axial distance is provided between the roll axis of the first folding roll 131 and the deflection axis U. Transversely to the conveying direction F, a reversal distance extends between the deflection axis U and the roll axis of the first folding roll 131. A second folding roll 132, and optionally a third folding roll 133 arranged between the first folding roll 131 and the second folding roll 132, define the path of the pocket base 7 through the forming device 130. The roll axis of the second folding roll 132 is arranged significantly further away from the deflection axis U in the conveying direction F through the forming device 130 than the axial distance, preferably by a factor of 2 to 5.Transverse to the conveying direction F (in the feeding direction), the second folding roll 132 is further relative to the first folding roll 131 and the reversing distance is further relative to the deflection axis, but not more than 100%, only about 10% - 50%. The roll axes W of the folding rolls 131, 132 and, if applicable, 133 are parallel to each other.

[0101] The folding rolls 131, 132 and 133 can be formed by a pair of rolling discs 135, between which a spacer is arranged. The distance between the rolling discs relative to each other in the direction of the roll axis W, defined by the spacer, can correspond to the distance between the creasing discs 107, 207 of a creasing element 105 upstream of the forming device.

[0102] The forming device 130 has a guide surface 140, which can be implemented sectionally by counter-bearing rollers associated with the folding roller 131, 132, 133. The V- or U-shaped formed material web 5, in particular the pocket base 7, can be guided along the guide surface 140. Preferably, the guide surface 140 extends parallel to the plane defined by the deflection and the conveying device. In the embodiment of the system 100 according to the Fig. 1 or Fig. 2 in an essentially vertical plane.

[0103] Fig. Figure 4 shows a side view of a feeding device 110. The feeding device 110 differs from the feeding device 110 essentially only in the orientation of its conveying direction F at the inlet and outlet of the feeding device. The feeding device 110 comprises a pair of conveying rollers 111 and 112, between which the web-shaped input material web (in Fig. (4 not shown in detail) is conveyable. The lower conveyor roller 111 is provided with a drive device which drives the conveyor roller 111. The upper conveyor roller 112 rolls on the lower conveyor roller 111 and follows the movement of the lower conveyor roller 111.

[0104] Fig. Figure 4 shows the feed device 110 in an operating position in which the feed rollers 111, 112 cooperate as a feed roller pair to draw the web-shaped input material web 1 from the material web supply 2. When the system 100 has been loaded with a new material web supply 2, the leading edge of the input material web 1 must be re-inserted. To thread the web-shaped input material web 1 into the feed device 110, the feed roller pair 111, 112 can be moved into a setup position (not shown in detail). For this purpose, either only one of the feed rollers, in particular only the moving feed roller 112, or both feed rollers 111, 112, can be moved from the operating position to a setup position spaced apart from it, in which a threading gap is formed between the feed roller pair 111, 112.The feed rollers 111, 112 can be moved back and forth between the operating position and the setup position manually or by an auxiliary motor, for example, an electric motor. After threading, the feed rollers 111, 112 are returned to the operating position and can be operated, for example, manually, at a slow take-off speed to draw the starting material 1 from the material web supply 2 and convey it through the guide device 200 towards the forming device 130. Optionally, manual access to the material web 1 in the guide device 200 is possible. Preferably, manual access to the leading free edge of a new material web 1 is omitted during the movement of the leading free edge through the guide device 200; instead, the process is automated.

[0105] The infeed device 110 comprises a creasing element 105. In the preferred embodiment shown here, the creasing element 105 is arranged upstream of the feed roller pair 111, 112. The creasing element 105 comprises two creasing discs 107, 108 axially offset from one another. The creasing discs 107, 108 are spring-loaded by a compression spring 109 and mounted on a cantilever 116. It is conceivable that the creasing discs 107, 108 are held rigidly against rotation. Preferably, the creasing discs 107, 108 are mounted so as to be rotatable. The creasing discs 107, 108 roll on the counter-bearing roller 106. The compression spring 109 presses the creasing discs against the counter-bearing roller 106. The web-shaped input material (in Fig. (4 not shown in detail) is conveyed by the infeed device 110 along the creasing element 105, which introduces longitudinal grooves into the web-shaped starting material 1, so that it is formed into a creasing web material 3. Downstream of the infeed device 110 in the forming device 230, the folding means cause the web-shaped material 1 to fold, preferably along the longitudinal grooves introduced by the creasing element 105, in order to form the material web 5 with a V- or U-shaped cross-section.

[0106] Fig.Figure 5 schematically shows the sealing and separating device 180 / 190. The V- or U-shaped material web 5 is conveyed in the conveying direction F by the conveying device 170 to and through the separating and sealing device 180 / 190. The sealing device 180 comprises a pair of jaws opposite each other transversely to the conveying direction F, which can be pressed against each other to form a transverse strip 15 sealing a packaging pocket 11. Optionally, a cold-seal adhesive can be applied to the material web 5 on the inside of the receiving cavity 9, at least in the area of ​​the longitudinal strips 16 and the transverse strips 15. The separating device 190 comprises at least one cutting edge, in particular scissor- or guillotine-like, or alternatively a plurality of cutting-like teeth for separating a packaging pocket 11 from the web-shaped starting material 1.At least one jaw of the sealing device 180 can be equipped with a cutting edge of the separating device 190, so that during a pressing process of the jaws against each other, the packaging bag 11 is simultaneously sealed along a transverse strip 15 and the packaging bag 11 is separated from the material web 5.

[0107] The features disclosed in the foregoing description, figures and claims can be important for the realization of the invention in its various embodiments, both individually and in any combination. Reference symbol list 1. web-shaped starting material 2 Material web stock 3 grooved material web 5 Material web with U-shaped cross-section 6 Longitudinal edge 7. Bag reason 8 wings 9 Receiving cavity 11 Packaging bag 15 horizontal stripes 16 longitudinal stripes 100 System 105 Grooving element 106 Counter bearing roller 107, 108 Grooved disc 109 Compression spring 110 Feed device 111 driven conveyor roller 112 trailing conveyor whales 115 dancers (carrying roll, loose roll) 116 booms 119 Exit area 120 pulley 123 Guide plate 125 retaining straps 126, 127, 128, 129 Belt pulleys 130 forming device 131, 132, 133 Folding roller 139 Entrance area 140 guide surface 150 loading device 151 Loading opening 180 Sealing device 190 separating device 200 guide system Channel 201 203 first (lower) channel side 205 second (upper) channel side 210 first (lower) guide element 220 second (upper) guide element 211; 221 rigid guide element 222 movable guide element 223 aperture 215, 225 Beak section a evasive movement b Starting width L Longitudinal direction of the railway B Lane width direction E Feed direction F Conveyor direction U deflection axis V Vertical direction 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] DE 10 2020 114 1 A1 [0002, 0052] US 9,725,194 B2

[0004] EP 2 840 027 B1

[0004] Cited non-patent literature

[0000] DIN EN ISO 1924-2

[0008] DIN EN ISO 1924-3

[0008] DIN EN ISO 2758

[0008]

Claims

[1] System (100) for converting a web-shaped input material (1) defining a web longitudinal direction (L) and extending between two longitudinal edges (6) opposite each other in the web width direction (B), in particular made of paper or cardboard, into packaging bags (11), comprising: a feed device (110) for drawing off the web-shaped starting material (1), a forming device (130) for continuously forming the web-shaped starting material (1) into a material web (5) with a V- or U-shaped cross-section and a receiving cavity (9) extending in the longitudinal direction (L) of the web, characterized by , that the system (100) comprises a guide device (200) for guiding a leading edge of the web-shaped starting material (1) from the feed device (110) to the forming device (130). [2] System (100) according to claim 1, characterized by, that the guiding device (200) defines a channel (201), in particular a funnel-shaped one, which is formed by several guiding elements which can be brought into contact with the leading edge of the starting material, in particular a sliding contact or a drive contact. [3] System (100) according to claim 2, characterized by , that the channel (201) tapers in the conveying direction (F) of the web-shaped starting material (1), preferably in the vertical direction (V), and / or wherein the channel (201) has a channel width which at least sectionally, preferably constantly, corresponds at least to the width of the web-shaped starting material (1). [4] System (100) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized by, that the guiding device (200) comprises at least a first guiding element (210) that limits a first, in particular lower in the vertical direction (V), side (203) of the channel (201), and / or at least a second guiding element (220) that limits a second, in particular upper in the vertical direction (V), side (205) of the channel (201) opposite the first side. [5] System (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the guiding device (200) comprises several guiding elements which are arranged side by side and / or one behind the other with respect to the conveying direction (F). [6] System (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the guide device (200) bridges a distance between the feed device (110) and the forming device (130), wherein preferably at least one, in particular a first, guide element (210) extends completely from the feed device (110) to the forming device (130) and / or wherein preferably at least one, in particular a second, guide element (220) extends over at least half the distance. [7] System (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the guide device (200) bridges a height difference between an outlet area (119) of the feed device (110) and the inlet area (139) of the forming device (130) arranged in the vertical direction (V) above the outlet area (119). [8] System (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the guiding device (200) comprises at least one rigid guiding element (211, 221), such as a guide rod, a guide plate or the like, wherein the guiding device (200) in particular comprises several rigid guiding elements (211, 221). [9] System (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the guiding device (200) comprises at least one conveyable guiding element (222), such as a belt (125), for carrying the leading edge of the web-shaped input material. [10] System (100) according to claim 9, characterized by , that the conveying guide element is engaged with the forming device (130) at least partially, in particular in an input area (139) of the forming device (130). [11] System (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the feed device (110) is designed and configured to push the leading edge of the web-shaped starting material (1) through the guide device (200) from the feed device (110) to the forming device (130). [12] System (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the feed device (110) comprises at least one driven feed roller (111) and at least one cooperating, in particular driven or driven, feed roller (112), wherein the feed device has an operating position in which the driven feed roller (111) and the cooperating feed roller (112) are brought close to each other to grasp the web-shaped starting material, wherein in particular a preload force pushes the driven feed roller (111) and the cooperating feed roller (112) against each other, and wherein the feed device has a setup position in which the driven feed roller (111) and the cooperating feed roller (112) are arranged at a distance from each other. [13] System (100) according to claim 12, characterized by, that the feed device (110) has an operating state in which the feed device (110) is designed to subject the web-shaped input material to a first, in particular fast and / or variable, take-off speed, and a setup state in which the feed device (110) is designed to subject the web-shaped input material to a second, in particular slow and / or constant, take-off speed. [14] System (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the system (100) comprises a material web supply (2), in particular a supply roll, of the web-shaped starting material (1), from which the feed device (110) draws in the web-shaped starting material, wherein the feed device (110) and the material web supply (2) are coordinated such that the feed device (110) transfers the web-shaped starting material to the guide device (200) with a curvature directed upwards in the vertical direction (V), in particular a supply roll curvature, and / or an adhesive coating oriented upwards in the vertical direction (V). [15] System (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the deflection is arranged in relation to a vertical direction (V) in an upper inlet area (139), in particular at an upper end, of the forming device (130), wherein in particular the web-shaped starting material (1) is guided in the forming device (130) with a conveying direction (F) which is directed downwards in relation to a vertical direction (V).

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