METHOD FOR ALIGNING CUBIC-SHAPED PACKAGING BOXES

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for aligning cuboid packaging boxes, in particular folding boxes containing pharmaceutical products.

[0002] Packaging boxes are often used as outer packaging for pharmaceutical products packaged in smaller packaging units. For example, several blister packs, each containing one or more tablets, are packaged together with a package insert in a packaging box. A suitable packaging line for this purpose comprises a blister machine for producing and filling blister packs, a cartoning machine that packs the blister packs into packaging boxes, and other downstream machines, e.g., a labeling machine, a serialization machine, a printer, an embossing device, or a combination of these.

[0003] The packaging boxes then pass through a supply chain from the pharmaceutical manufacturer to the end user. To ensure individual tracking of the packaging throughout this supply chain and to protect the contents from tampering, various markings are typically applied to the packaging boxes in the labeling and / or serialization machines. One example is adhesive labels that provide information about the contents or dosage form. Individual markings, such as barcodes or QR codes, can also be applied to the packaging boxes, e.g., lasered or printed. Individual markings enable the tracking of individual packaging boxes from the pharmaceutical manufacturer, through the entire distribution chain, to the end user. This ensures the traceability of the medicines and thus the quality and origin of the medicines.

[0004] In addition to traceability, so-called security packaging plays a major role. Such security packaging has one or more security features that are irreversibly damaged when the packaging box is opened for the first time. It is therefore always obvious whether the packaging box is in its original condition or has already been opened. This is intended to prevent tampering with already filled and labeled packaging boxes, for example, by opening them and replacing the medicines contained therein with other medicines. Such security features can be integral to the packaging box or, for example, be formed by adhesive labels.Suitable adhesive labels extend from a first side surface of the packaging box across one edge of the same to a second side surface of the packaging box, with one of the two side surfaces being formed by a bottom or lid flap of the packaging box. The adhesive label adheres so firmly to the packaging box that it cannot be removed without damaging the packaging box or the adhesive label. If the bottom or lid flap of the packaging box is opened to access the medicines contained therein, the adhesive label or the packaging box will inevitably be damaged.

[0005] Particularly with this type of label, which extends beyond at least one edge of the packaging box, but also with all other labels to be applied to a packaging box, it is necessary that the packaging boxes are aligned as correctly as possible at the time of application. Only if the side surfaces of cuboid-shaped packaging boxes are perpendicular to each other can it be guaranteed that the labels will be applied at the desired location across a large number of packaging boxes and, especially if they extend beyond the edges of the packaging box, that they will not form creases or become damaged during application.

[0006] However, it has become apparent that due to the requirements for conveying the products in the individual machines of the packaging line, particularly at the interface between a cartoning machine and a labelling and / or serialisation machine, dimensionally stable transport or transfer of the packaging boxes is hardly possible.

[0007] US Pat. No. 6,878,222 B1, for example, discloses a device that applies markings to packaging using a stamp. A conveyor device comprises two conveyor belts that engage two opposite sides of the packaging and convey it along a transport path. At least one stop is arranged in the area of ​​the stamp, which can be moved into the transport path to hold the packaging in a predetermined position relative to the stamp. However, this requires a complex separate control of the conveyor belts.

[0008] JP 2000 255517 A describes a sealing device designed to apply a tape to the top or bottom of a carton while the carton is held by a conveyor belt. A conveyor belt control unit stops the drive for a specific time, depending on the carton's stiffness or deformation. When an attached limit switch detects the carton, a predetermined side of the conveyor belts is stopped.

[0009] GB 934 866 A discloses a device for closing packages having two lid flaps by applying an adhesive tape strip along the longitudinal gap between these flaps. The packages are to be fed into this device at regular intervals. For this purpose, hooks are provided in an infeed area that retain the packages and release them at appropriate intervals.

[0010] JP 2006 290385 A discloses a method for aligning cuboid packaging boxes comprising: Conveying packaging boxes along a transport path in a conveying direction by means of a conveying device, wherein the conveying device comprises a first conveying unit and a second conveying unit opposite the first conveying unit, which define the transport path, wherein the first conveying unit and the second conveying unit each comprise at least one belt, which accommodates packaging boxes between them and conveys them together; and aligning one of the conveyed packaging boxes, which has a distortion such that at least some of the side surfaces of the packaging box are not aligned perpendicular to one another, by means of at least one stop element arranged in the region of the conveying device, wherein the aligning of a packaging box comprises: arranging the at least one stop element in a first position,in which the at least one stop element protrudes into the transport path; conveying the packaging box against the at least one stop element, wherein the conveying device moves further in the conveying direction relative to the at least one stop element and thereby forces the packaging box against the at least one stop element until all sections of the packaging box adjacent to the at least one stop element abut against the at least one stop element and the side surfaces of the packaging box are aligned perpendicular to one another, wherein at least one stop point of the at least one stop element, against which the packaging box comes to abut, defines a plane that is aligned perpendicular to the conveying direction. It is an object of the present invention to provide a method,which enables the packaging boxes to be aligned even at high transport speeds. This object is achieved by the features of claim 1. Preferred embodiments are the subject of the dependent subclaims.

[0011] A method according to the invention for aligning cuboid-shaped packaging boxes comprises: conveying packaging boxes along a transport path in a conveying direction by means of a conveying device, wherein the conveying device comprises a first conveying unit and a second conveying unit opposite the first conveying unit, which define the transport path, wherein the first conveying unit and the second conveying unit each comprise at least one belt, which receives the packaging boxes between them and conveys them together; and

[0012] Aligning one packaging box of the conveyed packaging boxes, which has a distortion such that at least some of the side surfaces of the packaging box are not aligned perpendicular to each other, by means of at least one stop element arranged in the region of the conveying device, wherein the alignment of a packaging box comprises: Arranging the at least one stop element in a first position in which the at least one stop element projects into the transport path, wherein the at least one stop element is arranged stationary in the first position; conveying the packaging box against the at least one stop element, wherein the conveying device moves further in the conveying direction relative to the at least one stop element and thereby forces the packaging box against the at least one stop element until all sections of the packaging box adjacent to the at least one stop element bear against the at least one stop element and the side surfaces of the packaging box are aligned perpendicular to one another, wherein at least one stop point of the at least one stop element, against which the packaging box bears, defines a plane that is aligned perpendicular to the conveying direction;Moving the at least one stop element from the first position into a second position when all sections of the packaging box adjacent to the at least one stop element rest against the at least one stop element, wherein the at least one stop element does not protrude into the transport path in the second position, and thereby releasing the aligned packaging box for further transport in the conveying direction.;

[0013] The step of aligning one packaging box at a time of the conveyed packaging boxes is preferably carried out for each conveyed packaging box and repeated accordingly.

[0014] In this way, a method is provided by which packaging boxes can be aligned particularly quickly, precisely, and reliably during transport. While the packaging box to be aligned is still being conveyed, the at least one stop element is arranged in the first position. As soon as the packaging box hits the at least one stop element with a leading section, the at least one stop element blocks the packaging box at least in this section. For this purpose, the at least one stop element is arranged stationary in the first position. The conveyor device continues to move in the conveying direction. Due to the frictional engagement between the conveyor device and the respective packaging box, the conveyor device continually forces the packaging box further in the direction of the at least one stop element.The at least one stop element is configured such that the packaging box to be aligned is precisely aligned as soon as all sections of the packaging box adjacent to the at least one stop element rest against the at least one stop element. Since the warping of the packaging boxes is generally slight and the conveying speed of the packaging boxes through the conveyor device is relatively high, the packaging boxes can be aligned in fractions of a second. As soon as the packaging box is correctly aligned, the at least one stop element moves from the first position to a second position in which the at least one stop element does not protrude into the transport path. As a result, the aligned packaging box is released and conveyed further in the conveying direction by the conveyor device.

[0015] The packaging boxes are preferably designed as folding boxes. The first and second conveyor units are preferably designed as first and second belt drives, particularly preferably as upper and lower conveyors. In any case, the first and second conveyor units each have a section in which belts of the first and second conveyor units are arranged opposite one another transversely to the conveying direction, run parallel to one another, and define the transport path. For this purpose, the first and second conveyor units can be arranged horizontally next to one another, engaging side surfaces of the packaging boxes. However, the first and second conveyor units can also be arranged vertically one above the other, as is the case with upper and lower conveyors, and engaging a top and bottom side of the packaging boxes.

[0016] Opposing conveyor units are particularly well-suited for conveying packaging boxes at high speeds, as they securely hold the boxes between the parallel belt sections, preventing any displacement of the boxes relative to the upper and lower conveyors. They also apply a force to the boxes on both sides, ensuring that the boxes are conveyed evenly and correctly aligned upon impact with at least one stop element.

[0017] Particularly preferably, the alignment of one of the conveyed packaging boxes is carried out by means of a plurality of stop elements, and the movement of the plurality of stop elements from the first position to the second position occurs simultaneously. If a packaging box is conveyed in which individual side surfaces are aligned at an angle to one another, the maximum distortion of the packaging box occurs in the edge sections of the leading side surface of the packaging box. Furthermore, the most precise alignment of the entire packaging box is reliably achieved by aligning it at defined stop points, distributed as far as possible across its surface.

[0018] This can be achieved by providing a plurality of stop elements, each of which defines a stop point for the packaging box to be aligned. The plurality of stop elements can preferably be relatively small and thus have a low mass. Preferably, the plurality of stop elements are arranged such that, in the first position, the stop elements adjoin edge portions of the leading side surface of the packaging box to be aligned and are distributed along the edge portions.

[0019] It is further particularly preferred that the stop points of the stop elements, against which the packaging box rests, define a plane oriented perpendicular to the conveying direction. The number of stop elements required to define the plane depends on the shape of the stop points. If the at least one stop element is designed such that the packaging box rests flat against a stop element, i.e., the contact point is a contact surface, this contact surface defines the plane, and one stop element is sufficient.

[0020] If the stop points are small, e.g., stop points or stop lines, preferably three stop elements are provided that define the plane, at least two of which are opposite each other transversely to the conveying direction. Preferably, two stop elements are arranged in the region of an edge section of the leading side surface of the packaging box to be aligned, and at least one stop element is arranged in the respective opposite edge section of the leading side surface of the packaging box.

[0021] If the packaging box to be aligned rests against a stop element with all sections adjacent to the respective stop element, the leading side surface of the packaging box extends in the plane defined by the stop point(s). The side surfaces of the packaging box are then aligned perpendicular to each other.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, at least one first stop element and one second stop element of the plurality of stop elements are arranged on one side of the transport path, and at least one third stop element and one fourth stop element of the plurality of stop elements are arranged on a side of the transport path opposite the first and second stop elements transversely to the conveying direction. This ensures that the leading side surface, and thus the entire packaging box, is aligned both in a first transverse direction perpendicular to the conveying direction and in a second transverse direction perpendicular to the conveying direction and to the first transverse direction. Preferably, the first and second stop elements are arranged above the transport path, and the third and fourth stop elements are arranged below the transport path.However, the first and second stop elements can also be arranged to the right of the transport path and the third and fourth stop elements are then arranged to the left of the transport path.

[0023] The stop points of the four stop elements, against which the packaging box rests, define the plane for aligning the packaging box. At the same time, the first and second stop elements, or the third and fourth stop elements, can be distributed transversely to the conveying direction, thus enabling precise alignment without deformation, even with less stable packaging boxes.

[0024] Preferably, the at least one stop element is moved between the first and second positions by pivoting the at least one stop element about a pivot axis between the first and second positions. By pivoting, the at least one stop element can be moved particularly quickly between the first and second positions. In addition, the pivoting has the advantage that the at least one stop element can be pivoted from the first to the second position in the conveying direction of the packaging boxes. This ensures that the packaging box does not collide with the at least one stop element while the latter is moving from the first to the second position. The aligned packaging box therefore retains its aligned state once it is released and conveyed further in the conveying direction.

[0025] However, the at least one stop element can also be moved linearly between the first and second positions. For example, the at least one stop element is then designed as a pin that is moved into the transport path parallel to the first or second transverse direction.

[0026] If the at least one stop element is pivoted between the first and the second position, a shaft is preferably provided which extends transversely to the conveying direction and defines the pivot axis, wherein at least one stop element is arranged on the shaft. If a plurality of stop elements is provided, a first and a second shaft are preferably provided, wherein the first shaft extends transversely to the conveying direction on one side of the transport path and the second shaft extends transversely to the conveying direction on a side of the transport path opposite the first shaft. At least one stop element is then arranged on the first shaft and at least one stop element is arranged on the second shaft.

[0027] The shafts can be cylindrical or have a cross-section that allows for a positive connection between the shafts and the respective stop element. In principle, any shaft-hub connection suitable for transmitting torque can be provided between the shafts and the respective stop element.

[0028] The provision of at least one shaft for pivoting the at least one stop element has the advantage that a shaft can be integrated into a device for aligning packaging boxes in a particularly space-saving manner, the pivoting movement of the stop elements mounted on the shaft can be precisely controlled, and various drives are available to move the at least one shaft back and forth between the first and second positions at the required frequency. Furthermore, this allows multiple stop elements arranged on a shaft to be pivoted precisely simultaneously in a simple manner.

[0029] If several shafts are provided, on each of which at least one stop element is arranged, such as the first and the second shaft, the shafts can also be coupled by a gear to ensure simultaneous movement of the plurality of stop elements from the first to the second position of the respective stop element.

[0030] Preferably, the at least one shaft is driven by a drive, wherein the drive is preferably designed as a servomotor, rotary magnet, pneumatic, or mechanical drive. If the at least one stop element is moved linearly, all common and suitable linear drives, such as pneumatic, hydraulic, electric, or magnetic drives, are suitable.

[0031] If a first and a second shaft are provided, each shaft can have its own drive, in which case the drives must be synchronized. The gearbox between the first and second shafts can then be omitted. If the gearbox is provided, a single drive is sufficient to drive the first and second shafts.

[0032] Particularly preferably, the first and second conveyor units are driven synchronously and continuously. Preferably, the drive also occurs at a constant speed. The synchronous drive ensures that there is no relative speed between the first and second conveyor units. Since the first and second conveyor units engage opposite side surfaces of the packaging boxes, a relative movement between the first and second conveyor units would lead to a displacement of the side surfaces of the packaging box relative to each other and thus to a distortion of the packaging box.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment, the first conveyor unit and the second conveyor unit receive the packaging boxes between them with frictional engagement. The packaging boxes can thus be taken over by the conveyor device in any desired position or orientation and thus as quickly as possible and conveyed in the conveying direction. In addition, a relative movement between the first conveyor unit or the second conveyor unit and the packaging box to be aligned is possible as soon as the packaging box is at least partially in contact with the at least one stop element. This is particularly necessary when only part of the packaging box is in contact with the at least one stop element, but another part of the packaging box is not yet in contact with the stop element and is still to be conveyed to the stop element.

[0034] If a positive connection were provided between the first or second conveyor unit and the packaging boxes, the elements producing the positive connection would deform the packaging boxes as soon as the packaging boxes rest against the at least one stop element and the conveyor device moves further in the conveying direction.

[0035] Preferably, the conveyor device conveys the packaging boxes at a speed of at least 6 m / min, more preferably at least 30 m / min, and even more preferably at least 60 m / min. Particularly preferably, the conveyor device conveys at least 10 packaging boxes per minute, more preferably at least 200 packaging boxes per minute, and even more preferably 300 packaging boxes per minute. Depending on the size of the packaging boxes, a conveyor speed of 6 m / min to 60 m / min is required to achieve the target size of 300 packaging boxes per minute. It is therefore preferred that the conveyor speed be continuously adjustable to allow adaptation to different packaging dimensions.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment, after the packaging box has been aligned, a marking is applied to the packaging box. The marking can, for example, contain information about the type, quantity, effect, and application of the packaging contents, which can individually identify individual packaging boxes (e.g., through barcodes or QR codes) and / or form a security feature that prevents or detects tampering with the packaging contents. Various markings described in detail above can be used here.

[0037] In one embodiment, the identification is provided by an adhesive label which is applied to the packaging box in such a way that it extends from a first side surface of the packaging box over one edge of the packaging box to a second side surface of the packaging box. The packaging box is preferably designed as a folding box, and one of the first and second side surfaces of the packaging box is formed by a lid or base flap of the folding box. When the packaging box is opened by pulling out the lid or base flap, the adhesive label is consequently damaged, making it clear that the packaging box has been opened for the first time. If the adhesive label extends over one edge of the packaging box, it is particularly important that the packaging box has been correctly aligned beforehand, i.e. that the side surfaces of the packaging box are arranged perpendicular to one another.Only then is it possible to apply an adhesive label to the packaging box over one edge without creating any creases.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment, arranging the at least one stop element in the first position comprises detecting a packaging box approaching the at least one stop element by means of a sensor, sending a signal to a control device when the sensor detects a packaging box; and initiating the movement of the at least one stop element by means of the control device when the control device has received the signal. Arranging the at least one stop element in the first position can also occur automatically after a first predetermined time after the movement of the at least one stop element into the second position. The first predetermined time is sufficient to move the aligned packaging box completely past the at least one stop element.

[0039] The movement of the at least one stop element from the first position to the second position is initiated by the control device as soon as a predetermined limit value is reached.

[0040] This predetermined limit value is preferably a predetermined time. In a preferred embodiment, arranging the at least one stop element in the second position then comprises detecting a packaging box approaching the at least one stop element by means of a sensor, sending a signal to a control device when the sensor detects a packaging box; and initiating the movement of the at least one stop element into the second position by means of the control device after a second predetermined time after the control device has received the signal. The second predetermined time is sufficient to convey the packaging box from the sensor to the at least one stop element and to align it therewith.The second predetermined time can be calculated from the distance of the sensor to at least one stop element, a maximum distortion of the packaging boxes and the conveyor speed and, if necessary, can be extended by a buffer time.

[0041] However, the predetermined limit value can also be a force that the packaging box exerts on the at least one stop element as soon as it is correctly positioned against the at least one stop element in the aligned state. Appropriate sensors for detecting the force can be provided on the at least one stop element or on its bearing, e.g., on the at least one shaft.

[0042] For example, the sensor is formed by a light barrier that extends transversely to the conveying direction through the transport path.

[0043] An exemplary device for aligning cuboid-shaped packaging boxes comprises a conveyor device comprising a first conveyor unit and a second conveyor unit opposite the first conveyor unit, which define a transport path for the packaging boxes and are configured to convey the packaging boxes in a conveying direction along the transport path, wherein the first conveyor unit and the second conveyor unit each comprise at least one belt and receive the packaging boxes between them. The device further comprises at least one stop element which is arranged in the region of the conveyor device and which is movable between a first position and a second position, wherein the at least one stop element projects into the transport path in the first position and does not project into the transport path in the second position.

[0044] In this way, an exemplary device is proposed with which packaging boxes can be quickly and precisely aligned on at least one stop element during their transport by the conveyor device. The device is particularly suitable for carrying out the previously described method for aligning cuboid-shaped packaging boxes. This is achieved in particular in that the at least one stop element projects into the transport path in its first position while the conveyor device continues to move in the conveying direction. Packaging boxes conveyed by the conveyor device are thereby forced against the at least one stop element until all sections adjacent to the at least one stop element rest against the at least one stop element and the latter then releases the packaging boxes for further transport in the conveying direction.

[0045] The device preferably comprises a plurality of stop elements, wherein the plurality of stop elements are coupled to one another in such a way that the stop elements can be moved simultaneously from the respective first to the respective second position. For this purpose, a plurality of drives can be provided for driving one or more stop elements, wherein the drives are controlled synchronously, thereby achieving the coupling of the stop elements. However, the stop elements can also be mechanically coupled, e.g., by arranging the stop elements on a common support or a common shaft, or by connecting a plurality of shafts by means of a gear.This simultaneous movement ensures that the aligned packaging box does not collide with any of the multiple stop elements if some stop elements have already released the packaging box while others are still in the first position. This prevents the previously aligned packaging box from being displaced again.

[0046] The stop points of the plurality of stop elements, against which the packaging box rests, define a plane oriented perpendicular to the conveying direction. Regarding the formation of this plane, reference is made to the above explanations. If the packaging box to be aligned rests against the respective stop element with all sections adjacent to a stop element, the leading side surface of the packaging box extends in the direction defined by the stop point or

[0047] The sides of the packaging box are then aligned perpendicular to each other.

[0048] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description with reference to the drawings, in which Fig. 1 to 11 Among other things, an exemplary device is shown which is suitable for carrying out the method according to the invention and is therefore described in detail for a better understanding of the method according to the invention. Fig. 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of a packaging box to be aligned in an isometric view. Fig. 2 shows an embodiment of an exemplary device not according to the invention in a first isometric view. Fig. 3 shows a section of the device according to Fig. 2 in another isometric view. Fig. 4 shows the device after Fig. 2with a packaging box of a larger format in an isometric view. Fig. 5a, b show a section of the device according to Fig. 1 in an isometric view and a sectional view. Fig. 6-8 show a section of the device according to Fig. 1 during the method according to the invention in a side view. Fig. 9-11 show a section of the device according to Fig. 1 during the method according to the invention in a plan view.

[0049] Fig. 1shows a packaging box 1, such as is used for packaging pharmaceutical products. The packaging box 1 is cuboid-shaped, i.e., has side surfaces that are aligned substantially perpendicular to one another. The packaging box 1 is preferably designed as a folding box. A folding box is usually closed by inserting a tuck-in flap using a bottom flap and a lid flap. The packaging box 1 is erected in a cartoning machine, filled with products (e.g., blister packs) and a package insert, and then closed. In the cartoning machine, the packaging box 1 is transported in a dimensionally stable manner to ensure the reliable insertion of products into the packaging box 1. At an output of the cartoning machine, the packaging box is transferred to a downstream machine, e.g.to a labeling machine and / or serialization machine.

[0050] An interface, e.g., in the form of a discharge belt, is located between the cartoning machine and the downstream machine. Since other conveying requirements are usually more important in the downstream machine, the packaging boxes are no longer transported in a dimensionally stable manner. This can lead to distortion of the packaging box 1, particularly during the transfer between the cartoning machine and the downstream machine, so that at least some of the side surfaces of the packaging box 1 are no longer aligned perpendicular to each other.

[0051] However, this can have a detrimental effect on the downstream process. For example, if the edges of the packaging box 1 are shifted relative to their target position due to warping when the packaging box 1 is correctly aligned, this can result in a marking no longer being able to be correctly applied to the packaging box 1 in the downstream machine. If, for example, a marking is applied to the packaging box 1 in a designated area in the downstream machine, e.g., printed, glued, or lasered, a warping of the packaging box 1 results in the area designated for the marking no longer corresponding with the area in which the marking is actually applied.

[0052] In the embodiment according to Fig. 1the marking 2 is formed, for example, by an adhesive label. The adhesive label extends from a first side surface 4 of the packaging box 1 over an edge 8 of the packaging box 1 to a second side surface 6 of the packaging box 1. The first side surface 4 and the second side surface 6 are arranged perpendicular to one another when the packaging box 1 is aligned. The second side surface 6 preferably corresponds to a lid or bottom flap of the packaging box 1. The adhesive label is applied to the packaging box 1 in a labeling machine. For this purpose, a section of the adhesive label 2 is first glued to the first side surface 4 or the second side surface 6 and the adhesive label is then placed around the edge 8 by means of a suitable guide device and glued to the other side surface of the first side surface 4 and the second side surface 6.

[0053] If the packaging box 1 is not correctly aligned, for example a third side surface 10 and a fourth side surface 12 are not aligned perpendicular to the first side surface 4 and / or the second side surface 6 is not aligned perpendicular to the first side surface 4, the adhesive label will fold in the area of ​​the edge 8 of the packaging box 1 when the adhesive label 2 is applied or after the packaging box 1 is returned to an aligned state. In order to ensure the quality of the packaging and the security feature in the form of the marking 2, such folding must be avoided.

[0054] However, even with other markings on the packaging box 1, it is advantageous if the area intended for the marking corresponds to the area in which the marking is actually applied to the packaging box.

[0055] This can be achieved by aligning the respective packaging box 1 by means of the method according to the invention.

[0056] The Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 show an exemplary embodiment of a device 20 not according to the invention in an isometric view. For clarity, a machine frame and the mounting of the device 20 in the machine frame are not shown.

[0057] The device 20 comprises a conveyor device 22 for conveying packaging boxes 1 along a transport path 24 in a conveying direction F. The conveyor device 22 comprises a first conveyor unit 26 and a second conveyor unit 28 opposite the first conveyor unit 26. The first conveyor unit 26 and the second conveyor unit 28 define the transport path 24, receive the packaging boxes 1 between them and convey them together in the conveying direction F. In particular, both the first conveyor unit 26 and the second conveyor unit 28 each comprise at least one belt 30, 32. The belts 30, 32 of the first conveyor unit 26 and the second conveyor unit 28 run parallel to one another in sections and parallel to the conveying direction F and are spaced from one another transversely to the conveying direction F such that they receive the packaging boxes 1 between them.The first conveyor unit 26 and the second conveyor unit 28 are in frictional engagement with the packaging boxes 1 or the side surfaces of the packaging box 1 facing the respective conveyor unit 26, 28. The parallel sections of the first and second conveyor units 26, 28, in which the packaging boxes 1 are accommodated between the first conveyor unit 26 and the second conveyor unit 28, define the transport path 24.

[0058] In the illustrated embodiment, the first conveyor unit 26 is formed by an upper conveyor and the second conveyor unit 28 by a lower conveyor, wherein the upper conveyor has two belts 30 and the lower conveyor has two belts 32. However, the first and second conveyor units 26, 28 do not necessarily have to be formed by an upper conveyor and a lower conveyor. Rather, the first and second conveyor units 26, 28 can also be arranged laterally of the packaging boxes to be conveyed and lie opposite one another in a horizontal plane transverse to the conveying direction F. Various embodiments of conveyor devices 22 are known to those skilled in the art, with which packaging boxes 1 can be reliably transported at the required speed.

[0059] The device 20 can further comprise a first and a second side guide (not shown), which are opposite one another transversely to the conveying direction F and extend parallel to the conveying direction F along the transport path 24. The side guides can form guide surfaces that bear against the side surfaces of the packaging box 1 that are not in engagement with the conveying device 22. If the conveying device 22 comprises, for example, an upper and a lower runner, the first and second side guides are arranged on horizontally opposite side surfaces of the packaging box 1 along the transport path 24. In general, however, side guides are not absolutely necessary.

[0060] The belts 30, 32 of the first and second conveyor units 26, 28 are preferably designed as endlessly circulating belts that are guided around corresponding deflection pulleys to tension the belts. The deflection pulleys of the belts 30, 32 are mounted in the machine frame, but are not shown in the figures for the sake of clarity. In addition, the first and second conveyor units 26, 28 comprise a drive, for example by means of a driven roller. The first and second conveyor units 26, 28 can comprise a common drive or each comprise their own drive. The first and second conveyor units 26, 28 are preferably driven synchronously in order to avoid a relative movement between the first conveyor unit 26 and the second conveyor unit 28 that deforms the packaging boxes 1. In addition, the first and second conveyor units 26, 28 are preferably driven continuously and at a constant speed.In particular, during the alignment of the packaging boxes 1 described below, the first and second conveyor units 26, 28 are driven continuously, preferably constantly, in the conveying direction F. It is also conceivable for the first and second conveyor units 26, 28 to be operated in a pulsating manner, i.e., to have a speed profile, although this results in increased control effort.

[0061] The device 20 further comprises at least one stop element 34 for aligning the packaging boxes 1 conveyed by the conveyor device 22. The at least one stop element 34 is characterized in that, in a first position of the stop element 34, it protrudes into the transport path 24 of the packaging box 1. A packaging box 1 conveyed by the conveyor device 22 in the conveying direction F is therefore conveyed against the at least one stop element 34.

[0062] The at least one stop element 34 is designed such that a cuboid packaging box 1 is correctly aligned, i.e., its side surfaces are aligned perpendicular to one another, when the packaging box 1 rests against the at least one stop element 34 with all sections adjacent to at least one stop element 34. This is achieved in that one or more stop points of the at least one stop element 34, against which the packaging box 1 rests, define a plane that is oriented perpendicular to the conveying direction F.

[0063] The at least one stop element 34 is arranged in its first position in the transport path 24 such that a leading side surface of the packaging box 1 or edge portions thereof are conveyed against the at least one stop element 34. If all portions of the packaging box 1 adjacent to the at least one stop element 34 or to the stop point or points rest against the at least one stop element 34, the leading side surface of the packaging box 1 consequently lies in the plane defined by the stop point or points.

[0064] Various embodiments, explained here as examples, are conceivable for this purpose. For example, it is possible to provide only one stop element that extends over as large a surface as possible. Such a stop element can be designed, for example, as a bar that has a stop surface as a stop point, which, in the first position of the stop element, extends perpendicular to the conveying direction F. The stop surface should be designed to be large enough that the packaging box 1 is aligned with it when the conveying device 22 forces the packaging box 1 against the stop surface.

[0065] It is preferable to provide a plurality of smaller stop elements that define a corresponding plane for aligning the packaging boxes 1. Depending on the rigidity of the packaging boxes 1 used, more or fewer stop elements may be provided.

[0066] In the Fig. 2 and3 The exemplary embodiment of the device 20 shown comprises four stop elements, namely a first stop element 34, a second stop element 36, a third stop element 38 and a fourth stop element 40. It is understood that the person skilled in the art will be able to adapt the device 20 to any number of stop elements based on the exemplary description of this embodiment, which is representative of any plurality of stop elements.

[0067] The stop elements 34, 36, 38, 40 are shown in their first position, in which they each protrude into the transport path 24 of the packaging box 1. The first and the second stop element 34, 36 extend from a bottom side of the transport path 24 into the latter, and the third and the fourth stop element 38, 40 extend from a top side into the transport path 24. The first and the second stop element 34, 36 thereby form stop points for a lower edge section of the leading side surface of the packaging box 1, and the third and the fourth stop element form stop points of an upper edge section of the leading side surface of the packaging box 1. This is particularly well illustrated by the Fig. 6 to 8 clearly.

[0068] The stop elements 34, 36, 38, 40 are mounted outside the transport path 24 such that they can be moved from the illustrated first position into a second position in which they do not protrude into the transport path 24. In order to ensure the most uniform alignment of the packaging box 1, the first and second stop elements 34, 36 and the third and fourth stop elements 38, 40 are arranged as far apart from one another as possible in a direction transverse to the conveying direction F. Preferably, the first and second stop elements 34, 36 accommodate the at least one belt 32 of the second conveyor unit 28 between them, and the third and fourth stop elements 38, 40 accommodate the at least one belt 30 of the first conveyor unit 26 between them.If the stop elements 34, 36, 38, 40 are each in their first position, as shown, they block the packaging box 1 so that it cannot be moved further in the conveying direction F by the conveying device 22.

[0069] In the embodiment shown in the Fig. 2 to 5 As shown, the stop elements 34, 36, 38, 40 are pivotally mounted so that they can be pivoted from the first position to the second position. This can preferably be achieved by arranging the stop elements on a shaft that extends transversely to the conveying direction F and defines a pivot axis for the stop elements.

[0070] The device 20 therefore comprises at least a first shaft 42 on which the at least one stop element 34 is arranged. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second stop elements 34, 36 are arranged on the first shaft 42 and the third and fourth stop elements 38, 40 are arranged on a second shaft 44. The first and second shafts 40, 42 extend horizontally transversely to the conveying direction F. In other embodiments, however, the shafts 40, 42 can also extend in any other direction transversely to the conveying direction F, in particular also vertically. The stop elements 34, 36, 38, 40 can be formed integrally with the shaft, e.g. in the form of a camshaft, or can be mounted as separate elements on the respective shaft 42, 44. The first, second, third and fourth stop elements 34, 36, 38, 40 are cam-shaped and are positively mounted on the respective shaft 42, 44.Alternatively, a force-fit or material-fit connection of the stop elements to the respective shaft is also conceivable. The specialist can adapt the design and mounting of the stop elements to suit the specific requirements.

[0071] Each shaft 42, 44 is mounted in two bearing blocks. The first shaft 42 is rotatably mounted in a first and a second bearing block 46, 48, and the second shaft 44 is rotatably mounted in a third and a fourth bearing block 50, 52. The bearing blocks 46, 48, 50, 52 can be slidably mounted in the machine frame to allow the device 20 to be adapted to different packaging formats. From a summary of the Fig. 2 and 4it can be seen that the bearing blocks 46, 48, 50, 52 can be displaceable in order to change the distance between the first and the second shaft. In addition, at least one of the first and second bearing blocks 46, 48 can be displaced along the first shaft 42 and at least one of the third and fourth bearing blocks 50, 52 can be displaced along the second shaft 44 in order to increase the distance between the stop elements. Finally, the first and second conveyor units 26, 28 can also be adapted to the packaging format. For this purpose, the distance between the first conveyor unit 26 and the second conveyor unit 28 can be adjusted, for example, by shifting the position of the parallel belt sections of the belts 30, 32. If each conveyor unit 26, 28 comprises more than one belt, the distance between the belts of a conveyor unit can also be adjusted.

[0072] At least one of the first and second shafts 42, 44 is driven by a drive 54. Any drive known to those skilled in the art for rotating shafts is suitable for the drive 54. The drive 54 is connected to a control device (not shown) that controls the drive 54 to move the stop elements between the first position and the second position at the correct time.

[0073] As in Fig. 3As can be seen, the device 20 can further comprise a sensor 55. The sensor 55 is formed, for example, by a light barrier whose light beam 55a is aligned transversely to the conveying direction F. The sensor 55 detects when a packaging box approaches the at least one stop element 34. The sensor 55 sends a signal to the control device when it detects a packaging box 1. The control device causes the stop elements to be moved into the first position and to be arranged there at the latest when the packaging box 1 is located directly in front of the stop elements. For this purpose, the control device controls the drive 54. It is understood that the sensor 55 can be arranged at any desired location in front of the stop elements and that a time can be calculated from the distance to the stop elements and the conveying speed which remains for arranging the stop elements in the first position.Preferably, the sensor 55 also detects the packaging boxes 1 when they rest against the stop elements.

[0074] In order to convey a packaging box 1 aligned by the stop elements 34, 36, 38, 40 in the correctly aligned state further in the conveying direction F, the stop elements 34, 36, 38, 40 must be moved simultaneously from the first position to the second position. Various possibilities are conceivable for this. Firstly, the stop elements can be moved from the first to the second position by several separate drives, wherein the drives are controlled such that the stop elements move out of the transport path 24 at the same time. For example, the drive 54 drives the first shaft 42 and a further drive is provided which drives the second shaft 44. The two drives are then controlled such that they rotate the first and second shafts 42, 44 and thus the first and second stop elements 34, 36 and the third and fourth stop elements 38, 40 about the pivot axis defined by the respective shaft 40, 42.As a result, the stop elements 34 to 40 are pivoted between the first position and the second position.

[0075] In the illustrated embodiment, the device 20 comprises a gear 56 for transmitting the rotary motion from one of the first and second shafts 42, 44 to the other of the first and second shafts 42, 44. Any gear known to those skilled in the art for transmitting rotary motion or torque from one shaft to another can be used as the gear 56. The gear 56 can, for example, be formed by spur gears, with at least one spur gear being arranged on each of the shafts, by a belt, such as a toothed belt, and can comprise a fixed gear ratio or a plurality of stepwise or continuously adjustable gear ratios.

[0076] A preferred embodiment of the transmission 56 is shown in the Fig. 5a and 5bshown. The gear 56 comprises a first bevel gear 58, a second bevel gear 60, a third bevel gear 62 and a fourth bevel gear 64. The first bevel gear 58 is mounted on the first shaft 42 in a rotationally fixed manner, for example, positively connected to the first shaft 42. The second bevel gear 60 is mounted on the second shaft 44 in a rotationally fixed manner in a corresponding manner. The gear 56 further comprises a third shaft 66 which extends perpendicular to the first shaft 42 and the second shaft 44. The axis of rotation of the third shaft 66 intersects both the axis of rotation or pivot of the first shaft 42 and the axis of rotation or pivot of the second shaft 44. The third and fourth bevel gears 62, 64 are mounted on the third shaft 66 in a rotationally fixed manner, for example, positively connected to the third shaft 66.The third bevel gear 62 is mounted on the third shaft 66 in such a way that it meshes with the first bevel gear 58 on the first shaft 42, and the fourth bevel gear 64 is mounted on the third shaft 66 in such a way that it meshes with the second bevel gear 60 on the second shaft 44. The first and third bevel gears 58, 62 are rotatably mounted in the first bearing block 46, for example by means of roller bearings. Accordingly, the second and fourth bevel gears 60, 64 are rotatably mounted in the third bearing block 50. As a result, the third shaft 66 is also rotatably mounted in two bearing blocks, namely the first bearing block 46 and the third bearing block 50. In order to carry out the format adjustment according to... Fig. 4 To enable this, it is advantageous if at least one of the first and third bearing blocks 46, 50 is displaceable along the third shaft 66.

[0077] A rotary motion or torque can now be transmitted from the first shaft 42 via the first and third bevel gears 58, 62 to the third shaft 66 and from the third shaft 66 via the second and fourth bevel gears 60, 64 to the second shaft 44. It is therefore sufficient if only one drive 54 is provided to move the stop elements 34, 36, 38, 40. The drive 54 can now be connected to one of the first, second, and third shafts 42, 44, 66, with the rotary motion generated by the drive 54 being transmitted via the gear 56 to the other two shafts 42, 44, 66.

[0078] In order to be able to adjust the position of the stop elements 34, 36 on one side of the transport path 24 relative to the opposite stop elements 38, 40, the gear 56 can further comprise a clutch 68. In the illustrated embodiment, the third shaft 66 is formed in two parts, wherein the two parts of the third shaft 66 are connected by means of the clutch 68. By means of the clutch 68, the rotational movement of the first shaft 42 can be decoupled from the rotational movement of the second shaft 44. The position of the first and second stop elements 34, 36 on the first shaft can thus be changed independently of the position of the third and fourth stop elements 38, 40 and vice versa.

[0079] Various modifications of the exemplary embodiment described in detail will be apparent to those skilled in the art. If, for example, a packaging box 1 is relatively rigid due to its design or dimensions, or only allows slight bending or displacement of the side surfaces relative to one another, it may be sufficient to provide only two stop elements. For example, if only a displacement occurs between the top edge and bottom edge of a leading side surface of a packaging box, it may be sufficient to arrange only one stop element in the region of the top edge and one stop element in the region of the bottom edge. If, on the other hand, the packaging box is relatively dimensionally stable but is arranged obliquely with respect to a horizontal transverse direction, two stop elements arranged in a left and a right edge region, e.g. the first and second stop elements 34, 36, may be sufficient.Preferably, at least three stop elements are provided to define the plane on which the leading side surface is aligned, two of which are arranged on one side of the transport path 24 and at least one of which is arranged on the opposite side of the transport path 24.

[0080] The method according to the invention is described below with reference to Fig. 6 to 11 and using the device 20 according to Fig. 2 to 5 described.

[0081] A packaging box 1 is transferred to the conveyor device 22 at an input 70 of the device 20. The transfer typically takes place from a cartoning machine via an interface, e.g., a discharge belt. Due to the unstable transport of the packaging box 1 in the interface or during transfer to the conveyor device 22, the originally cuboid-shaped packaging box 1 may become deformed, so that its side surfaces are no longer aligned perpendicular to one another.

[0082] The conveyor device 22 conveys the packaging box 1 along the transport path 24 in the conveying direction F. For this purpose, the conveyor device 22 comprises the first conveyor unit 26 and the second conveyor unit 28. In the illustrated embodiment, the belt 30 of the first conveyor device 26 engages a first side surface 4 of the packaging box 1 forming an upper side 72, and the belt 32 of the second conveyor device 28 engages a lower side 74 of the packaging box 1 opposite the upper side 72. The first and second conveyor devices 26, 28 or their belts 30, 32 are frictionally connected to the packaging box 1.

[0083] As in Fig. 6As can be seen, the packaging box 1 is deformed at least in the conveying direction F. More precisely, the packaging box 1 is inclined backward in the conveying direction F, so that the fourth side surface 12 of the packaging box 1, forming a leading side surface 76, is not oriented perpendicular to the top side 72 and the bottom side 74. The leading side surface 76 is oriented obliquely to the first transverse direction T, which extends perpendicular to the conveying direction F, preferably vertically. This inclination is to be eliminated by means of the method according to the invention.

[0084] In the Figs. 6 and 7It can be seen that the at least one stop element, here at least two stop elements, which can be formed by the first and fourth stop elements 36, 38 of the previously described device 20, are arranged in the first position. The packaging box 1 is conveyed against the at least one stop element 34. The conveying device 22 moves further in the conveying direction F relative to the at least one stop element 34 and thereby forces the packaging box 1 against the at least one stop element 34 until all sections of the packaging box 1 adjacent to a stop element 34, 38 border on the respective stop element 34, 38.

[0085] In the embodiment shown, a lower edge section 78 of the leading side surface 76 of the packaging box 1 strikes the first stop element 34 and, if present, the second stop element 36 arranged next to it transversely to the conveying direction F. At least the first stop element 34 then prevents the lower part of the packaging box 1 from being moved further in the conveying direction F, even though the second conveyor unit 28 continues to move in the conveying direction F. As a result, the frictional engagement between the belt 32 and the underside 74 of the packaging box 1 is overcome and thus slippage occurs between the second conveyor unit 28 and the packaging box 1. The upper part of the packaging box 1, on the other hand, continues to be moved in the conveying direction F until an upper edge section 80 of the leading side surface 76 also rests against at least the third stop element 38.If such a stop element is present, the upper edge section 80 then also rests on the fourth stop element 40, which is arranged offset transversely to the conveying direction relative to the third stop element 38.

[0086] If all sections 78, 80 of the packaging box 1 adjacent to the at least one stop element 34, 38 rest against the respective stop element 34, 38, the packaging box 1 is aligned. Stop points 82, 84 of the stop elements 34, 38, against which the packaging box 1 rests, define a plane E that is oriented perpendicular to the conveying direction F. In particular, the plane E is also perpendicular to the sections of the belt 30 of the first conveyor unit 26 and the belt 32 of the second conveyor unit 28 that define the transport path 24 and thus specify the alignment of the top side 72 and the bottom side 74 of the packaging box 1.

[0087] In the illustrated preferred embodiment, in which the stop elements 34, 38 are cam-shaped, the stop elements 34, 38 are arranged in the first position such that the packaging box strikes the first stop element 34 with a lower edge of the leading side surface 76 and strikes the third stop element 38 with an upper edge of the leading side surface 76. The contact points 80, 82 are therefore linear in this case.

[0088] As can be seen from the summary of Fig. 7 and 8 As can be seen, the aligned packaging box 1 is released and moved further in the conveying direction F by the conveyor device 22. For this purpose, at least one stop element 34, 38 is removed from the Figs. 6 and 7 shown first position in the Fig. 8shown second position when all sections 78, 80 of the packaging box 1 adjacent to the at least one stop element 34, 38 rest against the at least one stop element 34, 38. In the second position, the stop elements 34, 38 no longer protrude into the transport path 24.

[0089] In particular, in the second position, the first and second stop elements 34, 36 are located below a conveying plane defined by the belt 32, and the third and fourth stop elements 38, 40 are located above a conveying plane defined by the belt 30. To prevent individual stop elements from holding back a portion of the packaging box 1 while other stop elements are already releasing the packaging box 1, all stop elements 38, 40 are to be moved simultaneously from the first position to the second position. This is preferably achieved by rotating the first and second shafts and thereby pivoting the stop elements 34, 36, 38, 40 from the first position to the second position, as previously described.

[0090] From the Fig. 7 and 8It is further apparent that the first stop element 34 and, if applicable, the second stop element 36 are pivoted clockwise from the first position to the second position. The third and, if applicable, the fourth stop element 38, 40, however, are pivoted counterclockwise from the first position to the second position. Consequently, it is necessary for the gear 56 to be configured to effect a reversal of the direction of rotation between the first shaft 42 and the second shaft 44. Alternatively, the first and second shafts 42, 44 can each be rotated by their own drive, taking the corresponding direction of rotation into account.

[0091] In the Fig. 9 to 11 The method according to the invention is shown in a top view. Essentially, the statements regarding the Fig. 6 to 8to, with the difference that the packaging box 1 is arranged obliquely in a transverse direction Q. The transverse direction Q extends in this embodiment perpendicular to the conveying direction F and horizontally. Either the entire packaging box 1 can be arranged obliquely, ie the leading side surface 76 extends perpendicular to the side surfaces 86, 88 of the packaging box, but is arranged obliquely to the transverse direction Q. It is also conceivable that the packaging box 1 is warped in such a way that the leading side surface 76 of the packaging box 1 is aligned both obliquely to the transverse direction Q and obliquely to the side surfaces 86, 88 of the packaging box. In addition to the in Fig. 9 In the inclined position shown, the packaging box 1 may also have a distortion as shown in Fig. 6 is shown.

[0092] From the Fig. 9 and 10it can be seen that a right-hand edge section 90 of the leading side surface 76 of the packaging box 1 first encounters the third stop element 38 and the first stop element 34 arranged below it, which are each arranged in their first position. The right-hand edge section is consequently blocked by the first and third stop elements 34, 38 and, despite the ongoing movement of the conveyor device 22 in the conveying direction F, is not moved further in the conveying direction F. Slippage occurs between the right-hand belt of the belts 30 and 32, as viewed in the conveying direction F. Due to the ongoing movement of the conveyor device 22 in the conveying direction F, the left-hand part of the packaging box 1 continues to move in the conveying direction F until a left-hand edge section 92 also rests against the fourth stop element 40 and the second stop element 36 arranged below it, which are also in their first position.

[0093] Analogous to the previous embodiments, stop points are defined here between the stop elements 34, 36, 38, 40 and the sections 90, 92 of the packaging box 1 adjacent to them. The stop points also define the plane E, so that the leading side surface 76 of the packaging box 1 is arranged in the plane E when all sections 90, 92 of the packaging box 1 adjacent to the stop elements 34, 36, 38, 40 abut the stop elements 34, 36, 38, 40. The packaging box 1 is then arranged such that the leading side surface 76 is oriented both perpendicular to the conveying direction F and perpendicular to the side surfaces 86, 88.

[0094] Once the packaging box 1 is aligned, it is also released by simultaneously moving all stop elements 34, 36, 38, 40 from the first position to the respective second position, as previously described. After release, the aligned packaging box 1 is moved further in the conveying direction F by the conveyor device 22, as shown in Fig. 11 is shown.

[0095] In Fig. 11 It is further apparent that the conveyor device 22 further conveys and receives the packaging box 1 in such a way that areas of the packaging box 1 are accessible for applying a marking 2. For example, the belts 33 of the first conveyor unit 26 are spaced apart from one another in the transverse direction Q so far that a marking in the form of an adhesive label, a print, or a barcode can be applied to the first side surface 4, which forms the top side 72 of the packaging box 1.

[0096] Additionally or alternatively, the straps 30, 32 can be arranged at such a distance from the side surfaces 86, 88 of the packaging box 1 that the application of an adhesive label 2, as Fig. 1 described, is possible. Between a side surface 86, 88 and an outer edge of a strap 30, 32, there is then a projection 94 of the packaging box 1. The projection 94 is large enough to allow the application of a first section of the adhesive label to the first side surface 4 of the packaging box 1, forming the top side 72. Subsequently, a second section of the adhesive label 2 is folded around the edge 8 of the packaging box 1 and applied to the side surface 88 of the packaging box 1, forming the second side surface 6.

[0097] Further variations of the device and the method according to the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the exemplary embodiments described in detail herein. In particular, various embodiments of the stop elements, as well as their arrangement and mounting, are conceivable.

Claims

1. A method for aligning rectangular packaging boxes (1) comprising the steps of: conveying packaging boxes (1) along a transport path (24) in a conveying direction (F) by means of a conveying device (22), wherein the conveying device (22) comprises a first conveying unit (26) and a second conveying unit (28) opposite the first conveying unit (26), the first conveying unit (26) and the second conveying unit (28) defining the transport path (24), wherein the first conveying unit (26) and the second conveying unit (28) each comprise at least one belt (30, 32) receiving and jointly conveying the packaging boxes (1) between them; and aligning each packaging box (1) of the conveyed packaging boxes (1), which comprise a distortion in a way that at least some side surfaces of the packaging box (1) are not oriented perpendicularly to each other, by means of at least one stop element (34) arranged in the area of the conveying device (22), wherein aligning each packaging box (1) comprises: arranging the at least one stop element (34) in a first position, in which the at least one stop element (34) projects into the transport path (24), wherein the at least one stop element (34) is arranged stationarily in the first position; conveying the packaging box (1) against the at least one stop element (34), wherein the conveying device (22) continues to move in the conveying direction (F) relative to the at least one stop element (34) and thus forces the packaging box (1) against the at least one stop element (34), until each section of the packaging box (1) facing the at least one stop element (34) rests against the at least one stop element (34) and the side surfaces of the packaging box (1) are oriented perpendicularly to each other, wherein at least one stop site (82, 84) of the at least one stop element (34) against which the packaging box (1) comes to rest defines a plane (E) which is oriented perpendicularly to the conveying direction (F); moving the at least one stop element (34) out of the first position and into a second position when each section of the packaging box (1) facing the at least one stop element (34) rests against the at least one stop element (34), wherein the at least one stop element (34), when in the second position, does not project into the transport path (24), and thus releasing the aligned packaging box (1) for further transport in the conveying direction (F).

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized by aligning each packaging box (1) of the conveyed packaging boxes (1) by means of a plurality of stop elements (34, 36, 38, 40) and by simultaneously moving the plurality of stop elements (34, 36, 38, 40) out of the first position and into the second position.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that stop sites (82, 84) of the stop elements (34, 36, 38, 40) against which each packaging box (1) comes to rest define the plane (E) oriented perpendicularly to the conveying direction (F).

4. The method according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that at least a first stop element (34) and a second stop element (36) of the plurality of stop elements (34, 36, 38, 40) are arranged on one side of the transport path (24), and at least a third stop element (38) and a fourth stop element (40) of the plurality of stop elements (34, 36, 38, 40) are arranged on a side of the transport path (24) opposite the first and second stop elements (34, 36) in a direction transversely to the conveying direction (F).

5. The method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by pivoting the at least one stop element (34) around a pivot axis between the first position and the second position.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that a shaft (42) is provided, which extends transversely to the conveying direction (F) and defines the pivot axis, wherein at least one stop element (34) is arranged on the shaft (42).

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized by driving the shaft (42) by means of a drive (54), wherein the drive (54) preferably is a servo motor, a rotating magnet, a pneumatic drive or a mechanical drive.

8. The method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by synchronous and continuous driving of the first and second conveying units (26, 28).

9. The method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first conveying unit (26) and the second conveying unit (28) hold the packaging boxes (1) between them by frictional contact.

10. The method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the conveying device (22) conveys the packaging boxes (1) at a speed of at least 6 m / min, preferably at least 30 m / min, and more preferably at least 60 m / min.

11. The method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by applying an identifier (2) to a packaging box (1) after the packaging box (1) has been aligned.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that the identifier (2) is an adhesive label, which is applied in such a way that it extends from a first side surface (4) of the packaging box (1) around an edge (8) of the packaging box (1) and onto a second side surface (6) of the packaging box (1).

13. The method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that arranging the at least one stop element (34) in the first position comprises: detecting a packaging box (1) approaching the at least one stop element (34) by means of a sensor (55); transmitting a signal to a control unit when the sensor (55) detects an approaching packaging box (1); and initiating the movement of the at least one stop element (34) into the first position by means of the control unit when the control unit has received the signal; and in that moving the at least one stop element (34) from the first position into the second position is initiated by the control unit as soon as a predetermined threshold is reached.