SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPENING AND UNPACKING

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for opening a package containing a transport tray for objects, in particular vacuum-packed, wherein the package has a packaging section extending away from the transport tray in a direction of extension. The present invention further relates to a system for unpacking a transport tray for objects from a package containing the transport tray, comprising a device for opening the package. The present invention further relates to a method for unpacking a transport tray for objects from a package containing the transport tray.

[0002] Such devices, methods and systems for opening and unpacking are generally known in the prior art.

[0003] For example, German patent application DE 10 2007 027 878 ​​A1 discloses a device for removing a sterile object from a sterile package, comprising a clamping device that clamps a first section of the sterile package, a cutting device for cutting open the sterile package in such a way as to create a slit in the sterile package, a holding device that holds a second section of the sterile package, and a removal device for removing the object from the sterile package through the slit. Furthermore, a method for removing a sterile object is shown.

[0004] Furthermore, German patent application DE 102011 080 289 A1 discloses a device for removing a sterile object from a foil bag, comprising a needle unit with a hollow needle for piercing the foil bag, a gas connection on the needle unit for blowing gas through the needle into the foil bag, a cutting device for cutting the foil bag, a holding device for holding the foil bag, and a removal device for removing the object from the foil bag. Furthermore, German patent application DE 10 2014 201 961 A1 discloses a device and a method for preparing the removal of a sterile container from a tray. Here, the device comprises at least one transport means that moves at least one tray and at least one tray surrounding the containers, wherein at least one holding means is provided for fixing the tray or tray relative to the tray or tray.the tray is provided, and wherein at least one handling device is provided to generate a relative movement between the tray and the tray to separate the tray from the tray.

[0005] A fundamental problem with packaged objects, especially vacuum-packed ones, is how to unpack them properly. With packaging units that have tight folds or unfavorable frictional properties between the materials, the surfaces of the bag and the transport tray or tub are difficult to separate during removal. In other words, the individual parts are stuck together. Removing the object is particularly difficult when a vacuum is present within the packaging, as the packaging adheres to the object due to static friction. To solve this problem, the prior art proposes piercing the packaging with a needle and introducing gas through the needle to inflate the packaging, thereby separating it from the object and allowing for easy removal.However, the object must be designed in such a way that it is not damaged when the needle is inserted. In particular, the object must have a cavity into which the needle can penetrate.

[0006] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an improved device and an improved method for opening packaging, in particular vacuum packaging. Furthermore, there is a need for an improved system and an improved method for removing a transport tray from packaging in which the transport tray is packaged, in particular vacuum-packed.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the invention, a system for unpacking a transport tray for objects from a package in which the transport tray is repackaged is proposed, wherein the package has a packaging section extending away from the transport tray in a direction of extension. The system comprises the packaging and a device for opening the packaging. The device includes a cutting device for cutting the packaging to create an opening in the packaging and an inflation device for inflating the packaging through the opening created in the packaging. The cutting device is configured to detach a first part of the packaging section to create the opening in the packaging.

[0008] According to a second aspect of the invention, a method for opening a package containing a transport tray for an object, in particular vacuum-packed, is proposed. The method comprises the following steps: Providing the packaged transport tray, wherein the packaging has a packaging section extending away from the transport tray in an extension direction; cutting the packaging by means of a cutting device to create an opening in the packaging, wherein the cutting device separates a first part of the packaging section to create the opening in the packaging; and inflating the packaging by means of an inflation device through the opening created in the packaging.

[0009] According to a third aspect of the invention, a method for unpacking a transport tray for objects from packaging in which the transport tray is packed, in particular vacuum-packed, is proposed. The method comprises the following steps: Opening the packaging according to the method according to the second aspect of the invention; and removing the transport tray from the packaging by means of a removal device and / or pushing the transport tray out of the packaging by means of a slider.

[0010] The term "transport tray" refers specifically to outer packaging for objects. This outer packaging can be designed, for example, as a tray, tray, or container. The transport tray has a receptacle for multiple objects. Alternatively, the transport tray can have one or more receptacles, each for one or more objects. These receptacles can be designed, for example, as recesses or indentations into which one or more objects can be placed and in which the objects are preferably held.

[0011] The objects can be pharmaceutical or cosmetic items. Preferably, the objects can be, for example, containers for pharmaceutical or cosmetic liquids. In particular, the objects can be syringes or vials.

[0012] The packaging section can, for example, be designed as a flap that protrudes from the packaging. Such a flap is particularly common when the transport tray is packaged within the packaging, especially in the area of ​​weld seams. Particularly in vacuum packaging, such a flap forms in the area of ​​the weld seam through which the vacuum was created before welding. The packaging section extends away from the transport tray in the direction of travel.

[0013] The packaging can, for example, be a foil bag. The transport tray can be arranged and packaged or vacuum-packed inside the foil bag. Vacuum packaging ensures that the foil bag fits snugly against the transport tray. In particular, no voids are provided or required between the transport tray and the foil bag. For example, the foil bag can be a tubular bag that is sealed at the front and back. The protruding packaging section is preferably located at the front.

[0014] The protruding packaging section can, for example, be tubular, so that the opening of the packaging is created within this section. The protruding packaging section can, in particular, be designed as a tubular film layer. In other words, the protruding packaging section has a film layer that runs perpendicular to its direction of extension. Preferably, the tubular film layer has a weld seam in the first part of the packaging section, especially at the protruding end of the packaging section, which runs essentially perpendicular to its direction of extension. The interior of the packaging and the interior of the packaging section are connected. In other words, the tubular film layer merges seamlessly into the packaging at the front of the transport tray.

[0015] Using the proposed device and method for opening the packaging, the packaging is opened in such a way that it does not stick to the transport tray after opening. This allows for easy removal.

[0016] Furthermore, the device and the method for opening the transport container are independent of its design. In particular, there is no need for a cavity in the transport container into which a needle can be inserted for piercing and inflation. This significantly simplifies the method and the device, and also eliminates the risk of damaging the transport container or the objects inside it through piercing.

[0017] Furthermore, the device allows for cutting and inflation to be performed in a single operation. This speeds up the opening process of the packaging and also requires less installation space. In other words, it enables a space-saving design and faster process execution.

[0018] The task posed at the beginning is therefore fully solved.

[0019] In a first embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the packaging section is arranged on one side of the transport tray, so that the opening is created on this side of the transport tray.

[0020] Preferably, the packaged transport tray can be arranged for opening on a transport level of a transport device. With respect to the transport level, the transport tray has a top surface facing the transport level and a top surface facing the opposite direction. Circumferential sides are arranged between the top surface and the bottom surface. In particular, the packaging section is arranged on the circumferential side.

[0021] In a further embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the packaging section has a second part which is arranged between the first part and the rest of the packaging, wherein a cut produced when the first part of the packaging section is separated runs between the first part and the second part.

[0022] In this design, the first part of the packaging section is completely detached, while the second part remains attached to the packaging. The resulting opening is therefore located on the side of the second part of the packaging section where the cut between the first and second parts is made. This causes the packaging to inflate through the second part of the packaging section, thus preventing any punctures.

[0023] In a further embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the cut extends over the entire width of the packaging section, wherein the width of the packaging section extends perpendicular to the direction of extension, in particular wherein a cutting direction of the cut extends perpendicular to the direction of extension.

[0024] In this design, the opening spans the entire width of the packaging section. In other words, the width of the opening corresponds to the width of the packaging section. This ensures that the width of the opening is at least as wide as the width of the transport tray. This further simplifies the removal of the transport tray.

[0025] In a further embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the device has a holding device for holding a second part of the packaging section, in particular wherein the first part and the second part are different from each other.

[0026] Holding the second part of the packaging section allows for optimization of both the cutting and inflation of the packaging. Specifically, the packaging section remains stationary during inflation and cutting, enabling these two steps to be performed more precisely and quickly.

[0027] In a further embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the holding device has a first clamping element and a second clamping element for clamping the second part of the packaging section, wherein the first clamping element and the second clamping element are movable relative to each other.

[0028] The clamping is achieved through a relative movement of the clamping elements towards each other. Furthermore, the clamping elements can be moved away from each other, creating a gap between them into which the packaging section can initially be inserted or positioned, so that it can then be clamped between the two clamping elements.

[0029] In a further embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that adhesive means are provided on the side of each clamping element facing the packaging section, which are designed to adhere to the second part of the packaging section, in particular to suction the second part of the packaging section.

[0030] This ensures that the second packaging part remains adhered to the clamping elements during and after clamping, so that if the clamping elements move relative to each other, the opening of the packaging is enlarged, in particular widened.

[0031] In a further embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the holding device is further designed to clamp the second part of the packaging section during the cutting of the packaging and / or during the inflation of the packaging.

[0032] This holds the second part of the packaging section in place during cutting, allowing for a more precise cut. Furthermore, the clamping action partially closes the opening during inflation, reducing gas leakage and thus improving the inflation process.

[0033] In a further embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the holding device is further designed to open the opening before and / or after the packaging is inflated, in particular to widen it.

[0034] Opening the opening before inflation makes it easier to insert the inflation material into the packaging. Opening, and in particular widening, the opening after inflation also facilitates subsequent process steps, such as removing the transport tray from the packaging. Preferably, when opening the packaging before inflation, the opening is only opened wide enough to allow the inflation material to be inserted. More preferably, the opening is opened further after inflation, in particular wide enough so that the larger opening corresponds at least to the dimensions of the transport tray.

[0035] In a further embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the inflation device has a blowing nozzle which can be inserted into the packaging through the opening of the packaging for the purpose of inflating the packaging.

[0036] In other words, the blow nozzle is a means of inflating the packaging. A blow nozzle can preferably be connected to a gas pressure device that forces a predefined quantity of gas at a predefined pressure through the blow nozzle. The pressure and gas quantity can be selected so that the packaging is inflated sufficiently without bursting.

[0037] In a further embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the holding device is further designed to clamp the second part of the packaging section and the blow nozzle during the inflation of the packaging.

[0038] This ensures that the opening of the packaging, located on the second part of the packaging section, is completely closed by the clamping mechanism, and that the blow nozzle is positioned in the opening on the other side. This allows the packaging to be inflated while preventing gas from escaping during inflation, thus further optimizing the inflation process.

[0039] In a further embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the first clamping element and / or the second clamping element has a recess for the blow nozzle, in particular wherein the recess is filled with an elastic material.

[0040] This design further optimizes the inflation process and the clamping during the inflation process, since the design of the clamping elements with a recess allows the gas nozzle to be optimally positioned between the first and second clamping elements during inflation.

[0041] In a further embodiment of the invention, the device may also have a fixing device, wherein the fixing device is designed to fix the packaging and the transport tray during cutting and / or inflation.

[0042] By fixing the packaging and the transport tray during the individual process steps of cutting and inflation, the individual process steps can be carried out better and more accurately, without the packaging or the transport tray unintentionally slipping or being repositioned.

[0043] In a further embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the fixing device is further designed to also open the opening, in particular to widen it, after the packaging has been inflated.

[0044] This ensures that the fixing device supports the opening in addition to the holding device, so that the packaging is more easily detached from the transport tray and thus the removal of the transport tray from the packaging is further simplified.

[0045] In a further embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the device also has a slider designed to push the transport tray out of the packaging after the packaging has been opened.

[0046] This provides a simple means of unpacking the transport tray from the packaging.

[0047] Alternatively or additionally, in a further embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the system also has a removal device for removing the transport tray from the opened packaging.

[0048] The removal device may, for example, include a gripping or suction device designed to remove the transport tray from the packaging through the opening.

[0049] In a further embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the system also includes a transport device for transporting the packaged transport tray and / or for transporting the unpacked transport tray away.

[0050] The transport device can, for example, have a transport level on which the transport tray is transported. Preferably, the transport tray can be arranged on the transport level during the cutting and loading of the packaging.

[0051] In a further embodiment of the invention, the method may further include the following step: Inserting a blowing nozzle of the inflation device into the packaging through the opening of the packaging.

[0052] In other words, the blow nozzle is a means of inflating the packaging. A blow nozzle can preferably be connected to a gas pressure device that forces a predefined quantity of gas at a predefined pressure through the blow nozzle. The pressure and gas quantity can be selected so that the packaging is inflated sufficiently without bursting.

[0053] In a further embodiment of the invention, the method may further include the following step: First clamping of a second part of the packaging section by means of a holding device, at least during the cutting process.

[0054] This holds the second part of the packaging section in place during cutting, allowing for a more precise cut. Preferably, the first clamping action is performed before and during the cutting process.

[0055] In a further embodiment of the invention, the method may further include the following step: First opening of the packaging opening using a holding device after cutting and before inflation, especially before insertion.

[0056] Opening the opening before inflation makes it easier to insert the inflation material into the packaging opening. Preferably, when opening the packaging before inflation, the opening is only opened enough to allow the inflation material to be inserted.

[0057] In a further embodiment of the invention, the method may further include the following step: Second clamping of a second part of the packaging section by means of a holding device, at least during inflation.

[0058] This clamping action during inflation partially closes the opening, reducing gas escape from the packaging opening and thus improving the inflation process. Preferably, the second clamping is performed after the initial opening, particularly after insertion. Even more preferably, the second clamping is performed before and during inflation. Specifically, in the second clamping step, the second part of the packaging section and the inflation nozzle inserted into this section are clamped together.

[0059] In a further embodiment of the invention, the method may further include the following step: Second opening of the packaging using a holding device after inflation.

[0060] Opening, and in particular widening, the opening after inflation also facilitates subsequent process steps, such as removing the transport tray from the packaging. Preferably, the opening is further opened after inflation of the packaging, in particular opened so that the larger opening corresponds at least to the dimensions of the transport tray.

[0061] It is understood that the features mentioned above and those to be explained below can be used not only in the combination specified, but also in other combinations or on their own, without leaving the scope of the invention defined in the claims.

[0062] Embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the drawing and explained in more detail in the following description. The drawing shows: Figure 1 is a side view of an embodiment of a device for opening a package, Figure 2 is a side view of a transport tray vacuum-packed in a package, Figure 3 is a schematic top view of the device for opening a package made of Fig. 1 Figure 3: Section of Fig. 3A along line AA; Figure 4: A schematic representation of an embodiment of a method for opening a package; Figure 5: A schematic representation of an embodiment of a method for unpacking a transport tray; Figure 6: A side view of the device for opening a package. Fig. 1 In the provisioning step, Figure 7 shows a side view of the device for opening a package. Fig. 1 In the first clamping step, Figure 8 shows a side view of the device for opening a package. Fig. 1 In the cutting step, Figure 915 shows a side view of the device for opening a package. Fig. 1 In the first opening step, Figure 10 shows a side view of the device for opening a package. Fig. 1 In the insertion step, Figure 11 shows a side view of the device for opening a package. Fig. 1 In the second clamping step, Figure 12 shows a side view of the device for opening a package. Fig. 1 During the inflation step, Figure 13 shows a side view of the device for opening a package made of Fig. 1 in the second opening step, and Figure 14 shows a side view of the device for opening a package made of Fig. 1 in the step of pushing out.

[0063] The Figuren 1 Figures 3A and 3A show an embodiment of a device 10 for opening a package 52 in which a transport tray 50 for objects is vacuum-packed. The device 10 can be part of a system 76 for unpacking the transport tray 50 from the package 52.

[0064] In Fig. 1 The packaging 52 and the transport tray 50 are shown in dashed lines to indicate that the device 10 is designed to open the packaging 52 and that the packaging 52 and the transport tray 50 can be arranged in the dashed shape shown.

[0065] An exemplary embodiment of the transport tray 50 and the packaging 52 is shown in the Fig. 2 The transport tray 50 is shown in the figure. The transport tray 50 is arranged within the packaging 52. The packaging 52 can be designed as a foil bag. The packaging 52 has a packaging section 54 that extends away from the transport tray 50 in a direction 70. The packaging section 54 is preferably designed as a flap that projects from the packaging 52. The packaging section 54 is divided into two parts, namely a first part 56 and a second part 58. The second part is arranged between the packaging 52 and the first part 56. The flap is particularly designed as a tubular film layer that has a weld seam for sealing the packaging 52 in the first part 56 of the packaging section 54.

[0066] The transport tray 50 further comprises a front 60, a top 62, a back 66, and a bottom 64. Between the top 62 and the bottom 64, the transport tray 50 has a circumferential surface that includes both the front 60 and the back 66. The front 60 and the back 66 are arranged opposite each other in the direction 70. The top 62 is arranged opposite the bottom 64. The packaging section 54 is located on the front 60 of the transport tray 50. Alternatively, the packaging section 54 can also be located at any other point on the circumferential surface, the top 62, or the bottom 64 of the transport tray 50.

[0067] In the embodiment of the Fig. 1 The transport device 78 can further comprise a transport device 78 for transporting the vacuum-packed transport tray 50 to the tray and / or for transporting the unpacked transport tray 50 away. The transport device 78 can, for example, have a transport platform 26. The underside 64 of the transport tray 50 can face the transport platform 26. Preferably, the transport tray 50 rests on the transport platform 26 with its underside 64. In particular, the direction of extension 70 runs substantially parallel to the transport platform 26. The transport device 78 can be part of the system 76.

[0068] Furthermore, the device 10 includes a cutting device 12. The cutting device 12 can be arranged in the direction of extension 70 next to the transport plane 26. The cutting device 12 is designed to cut open the packaging 52 to create an opening 130 in the packaging 52. In particular, the cutting device 12 is designed to detach the first part 56 of the packaging section 54 to create the opening 130 in the packaging 52. When the first part 56 of the packaging section 54 is detached, a cut is made between the first part 56 and the second part 58 of the packaging section 54. In other words, the cut made between the first part 56 and the second part 58 runs in a cutting direction 72. In particular, the cutting direction 72 of the cut runs perpendicular to the direction of extension 70. Preferably, the cut extends across the entire width of the packaging section 54.The width of the packaging section 54 extends perpendicularly to the extension direction 70.

[0069] The cutting device 12 has a cutting blade 14 for cutting, with which the first part 56 of the packaging section 54 can be cut off in order to open the packaging 52. Alternatively or additionally, the cutting device 12 can also have other means for cutting or opening the packaging, for example an optical cutting tool, in particular a laser.

[0070] Furthermore, the device 10 has an inflation device 16 for inflating the packaging 52 through the opening 130 created in the packaging 52. For this purpose, the inflation device 16 preferably has a blowing nozzle 18. The blowing nozzle 18 is arranged such that it can be inserted into the packaging 52 through the opening 130 of the packaging 52 for inflation. For this purpose, the blowing nozzle 18 can be pivotably arranged above the packaging section 54, so that the blowing nozzle 18 can be pivoted into the opening 130 for inflation.

[0071] The device 10 further comprises a holding device 20 for holding the second part 58 of the packaging section 54. The holding device 20 may include a first clamping element 22 and a second clamping element 24 for clamping the second part 58 of the packaging section 54. In particular, the first clamping element 22 and the second clamping element 24 may be movable relative to each other. Adhesive means may be provided on the side of each clamping element 22, 24 facing the packaging section 54, which are designed to adhere to the second part 58 of the packaging section 54, in particular to draw the second part 58 of the packaging section 54 into place. In other words, the sides of the clamping elements 22, 24 facing the packaging section 54 are arranged opposite each other, with the packaging section 54 being clamped between these sides.

[0072] Accordingly, packaging section 54 has a first side 132 and a second side 134. The first side 132 faces the first clamping element, and the second side 134 faces the second clamping element 24. When the second part 58 of packaging section 54 is clamped, the first clamping element 22 rests against the first side 132, and the second clamping element 24 rests against the second side 134. This is particularly evident in the Figuren 7 , 9 , 11 and 13 This is shown in more detail below. Similarly, when the clamping elements 22, 24 adhere to the sides 132, 134 of the packaging section 54, the first clamping element 22 is located on the first side 132 and the second clamping element 24 is located on the second side 134. This allows the size of the opening 130 to be varied by a relative movement of the clamping elements 22, 24 when the clamping elements 22, 24 are attached to the sides 132, 134 of the packaging section 54.

[0073] The clamping elements 22, 24 can, for example, be designed as clamping strips. Preferably, the width of the clamping strips extending perpendicular to the direction of extension 70 corresponds to at least the width of the packaging section 54, wherein this width of the packaging section 54 also extends perpendicular to the direction of extension in the same direction.

[0074] The holding device 20 can further comprise a suction device (not shown) that interacts with the clamping elements 22, 24. For example, the clamping elements 22, 24 can have holes along their width through which the suction device can draw in the packaging section 54. The holes are preferably equidistant from one another along their width. In other words, the suction device and the holes provide possible means of adhesion for the holding device 20, whereby the sides 132, 134 adhere to the clamping elements 22, 24 by means of these means.

[0075] Furthermore, the first clamping element 22 and / or the second clamping element 24 may have a recess 68 for the blow nozzle 18. This recess 68 may, for example, be filled with an elastic material. The recess 68 in the first clamping element 22 and / or in the second clamping element 24 may, in particular, be shaped to complement the shape of the blow nozzle 18. This ensures that the holding device 20 can completely clamp the packaging section 54 while the blow nozzle 18 is inserted into the opening 130, without gas being able to escape from the opening 130.

[0076] The device 10 may further comprise a fixing device 28. The fixing device 28 may comprise a first fixing element 30 and a second fixing element 32. The first fixing element 30 has a first suction head 34. The second fixing element 32 has a second suction head 36. The first fixing element 30 is arranged on the rear side 66 of the transport tray 50, above the transport tray. The second fixing element 32 is arranged on the front side 60 of the transport tray 50, above the transport tray 50. The first fixing element 30 is pivotably mounted on a bracket about an axis that runs parallel to the transport plane 26 and perpendicular to the direction of extension 70. The bracket of the first fixing element 30 is movable in the direction of extension 70. The second fixing element 32 is movable perpendicular to the transport plane 26.

[0077] Furthermore, the device 10 has a slide 38. The slide is arranged on the rear side 66 of the transport tray 50. The slide 38 is movable in a thrust direction 136 to push the transport tray 50 out of the packaging 52 after the packaging 52 has been opened. The thrust direction 136 preferably corresponds to the extension direction 70. The pushing out by means of the slide 38 is in the Figur 14 shown in more detail. The slider 38 can be integrally formed with the holder for the first fixing element 30.

[0078] Furthermore, alternatively or additionally to the slide 38, a removal device may also be provided, which is designed to remove the transport tray 50 from the opened packaging 52. The removal device may, in particular, be part of the system 76.

[0079] The device 10 can further comprise at least one drive unit configured to move the first clamping element 22 and the second clamping element 24 relative to each other in a stroke direction 74. For example, the device 10 can comprise a first drive unit 40 that moves the first clamping element 22 in the stroke direction 74 and a second drive unit 42 that moves the second clamping element 24 in the stroke direction 74.

[0080] Furthermore, the device 10 can have a support structure 44 that carries the holding device 20, the cutting device 12, and the inflation device 16. The support structure 44 can have the first drive device 40 and the second drive device 42. Preferably, the support structure 44 has a first support element 46 and a second support element 48. The first support element 46 can be configured to carry the inflation device 16. The second support element 48 can be configured to carry the cutting device 12. In particular, it can be provided that the first support element 46 also carries the first clamping element 22. The first support element can also have the first drive device 40 to move the first clamping element 22 in the stroke direction 74. The first support element 46 can also carry the second fixing element 32.This allows the movements of the first clamping element 22 in the stroke direction 74 and the second fixing element 32 in the stroke direction 74 to be coupled together.

[0081] Furthermore, the second support element 48 can also support the second clamping element 24. It can also be provided that the second support element 48 has the second drive unit 42 to move the second clamping element 24 in the stroke direction 74. In particular, it can be provided that the second drive unit 42 moves both the second clamping element 24 and the cutting device 12 together in the stroke direction 74. This allows both the relative position of the first and second clamping elements 22, 24 to be adjusted by means of the first and second drive units 40, 42, as well as the positioning of the cutting device 12 and the inflation device 16 relative to the packaging section 54 and the opening 130 to be created therein.

[0082] Fig. 3A shows a schematic top view of the device 10. Fig. 1 The figure shows the relative positioning of the individual components of the device 10 in the direction perpendicular to the extension direction 70 and perpendicular to the stroke direction 74. The separating blade 24 of the cutting device 12 is movable in a cutting direction 72, which is perpendicular to the extension direction 70. This creates a cut between the first part 56 and the second part 58 of the packaging section 54 in the cutting direction 72. Before and after cutting, the separating blade 14 is positioned next to the packaging section 54 in the cutting direction 72.

[0083] Furthermore, two first fixing elements 30 and two second fixing elements 32 can be provided to fix the packaging 52 and the transport tray 50 during opening and unpacking. These can be arranged on opposite sides of the top 62 of the transport tray 50.

[0084] Furthermore, the support device 44 can also be arranged on both sides of the packaging section 54. In particular, the support device 44 can have components on sides of the packaging section 54 opposite each other in the cutting direction 72. Preferably, components of the first support element 46 and / or the second support element 48 are also arranged on these opposite sides of the packaging section 54.

[0085] Furthermore, the inflation device 16 with the blowing nozzle 18 is pivotably mounted on the support device, in particular about an axis parallel to the cutting direction 72 and / or perpendicular to the extension direction 70. This allows the blowing nozzle 18 to be inserted, in particular pivoted, into the opening 130 of the packaging 52. Alternatively or additionally, other means for inserting the blowing nozzle 18 into the opening 130 may be provided. For example, the blowing nozzle 18 can also be pushed into the opening 130 by means of a push device.

[0086] Figure 3B describes the design of the clamping elements 22, 24 in more detail. Figure 3B shows, in particular, a section through the clamping elements 22, 24 perpendicular to the direction of extension 70. As described above, the first clamping element 22 and / or the second clamping element 24 can have the recess 68. Preferably, the recess 68 in the first clamping element 22 and / or in the second clamping element 24 is shaped complementarily to the blow nozzle 18, so that the blow nozzle 18 can be received in the recess 68 when clamped.

[0087] The Fig. 4 Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a method 80 for opening a package 52 in which a transport tray 50 of an object is vacuum-packed. The method can be carried out using the device 10, which is located in the Fig. 1 bis 3 It is described, and will be carried out.

[0088] In a first step 82 of the process 80, the vacuum-packed transport tray 50 is provided. The packaging 52, as already described in Fig. 2 The figure shows a packaging section 54 extending away from the transport tray 50 in the direction of extension 70.

[0089] In a further optional step 84 of the procedure 80, the second part 58 of the packaging section 54 is clamped for the first time by means of the holding device 20 at least during the cutting 86, which is described below.

[0090] Furthermore, it may be provided that in the first clamping step 84 or in the provisioning step 82 the packaging 52 and the transport tray 50 are fixed by means of the fixing device 28.

[0091] In a further step 86 of the process 80, the packaging 52 is cut open by means of the cutting device 12 to create an opening in the packaging. Here, the cutting device 12 separates the first part 56 of the packaging section 54 to create the opening 130 in the packaging 52.

[0092] In a further optional step 88 of the process 80, the packaging is opened for the first time by means of the holding device 20 after the cutting step 86 and before the inflation step 94 described below. The initial opening step 88 is performed specifically before the insertion step 90 described below.

[0093] In a further optional step 90 of the process 80, a blowing nozzle 18 of the inflation device 16 is inserted into the packaging 52 through the opening 130 of the packaging 52.

[0094] In a further optional step 92 of the method 80, the second part of the packaging section 54 is clamped a second time by means of the holding device 20, at least during the subsequent inflation step 94. In particular, it can be provided that the holding device 20 clamps both the second part 58 of the packaging section 54 and the blowing nozzle 18 during the inflation of the packaging 52. Reference is made in particular to the embodiments of the clamping elements described in Fig. 3B by means of the recess 68, which preferably enable this clamping.

[0095] In a further step 94 of the process 80, the packaging 52 is inflated by means of the inflation device 16 through the opening 130 created in the packaging 52.

[0096] In a further optional step 96 of the procedure 80, the opening 130 of the packaging 52 is opened a second time by means of the holding device 20 after inflation 94.

[0097] Fig. 5 Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a method 100 for unpacking a transport tray 50 for objects from a package 52 in which the transport tray 50 is vacuum-packed. The method 100 can be carried out using the unpacking system 76. The method 100 comprises the steps described below.

[0098] In a first, optional step 102 of the process 100, the vacuum-packed transport tray 50 is transported by means of a transport device 78.

[0099] In a further step 80 of process 100, the packaging 52 is prepared according to process 80, which is described in Fig. 4 As described, it is open.

[0100] In a further step 104 of the procedure 100, the transport tray 50 is removed from the packaging 52 by means of a removal device.

[0101] In an alternative or additional step 106 of the procedure 100, it may be provided that the transport tray 50 is pushed out of the packaging 52 by means of a slide 38.

[0102] In a further optional step 108 of the procedure 100, the unpacked transport tray 50 is transported away by means of the transport device 78.

[0103] In the Fig. 6 bis 14 The device is shown in 10 individual process states of process 80 for opening and process 100 for unpacking.

[0104] In Fig. 6 The device 10 is shown in the state of step 82 of the method 80, during which it is being provided. The transport tray 50 and the packaging 52 are arranged on the transport plane 26. The clamping elements 22 and 24 of the holding device 20 are arranged relative to each other in a first position 120. The distance between the clamping elements 22 and 24 in the first position 120 is greater than the height of the packaging 52 in a direction perpendicular to the transport plane 26. The packaging section 54 extends from the packaging 52 in the direction of extension 70 between the clamping elements 22 and 24.

[0105] In Fig. 7 The device 10 is shown in the state of the first clamping step 84 of the method 80. In this state, the first and second clamping elements 22, 24 are arranged in a second position 122, in which the two clamping elements 22, 24 clamp onto the packaging section 54 in the second part 58. Specifically, the first clamping element 22 rests against the first side 132 of the packaging section 54, and the second clamping element 24 rests against the second side 134 of the packaging section 54. Furthermore, the clamping device 30 secures the packaging 52 and the transport tray 50 via the suction heads 34 and 36.

[0106] In Fig. 8 The device 10 is shown in the state of the cutting step 86 of the method 80. Here, the first part 56 of the packaging section 54 was cut off by means of the separating blade 14 of the cutting device 12. The packaging 52 thus now only has the second part 58 of the packaging section 54. The opening 130 is created at the outer end of the second part 58 of the packaging section 54 by the cutting 86.

[0107] In Fig. 9 The device 10 is shown in the state of the first opening step 88 of the method 80. In this step, the two clamping elements 22, 24 are arranged in a third position 124 relative to each other. The position 124 is selected such that the opening 130 is opened, in particular enlarged or widened. The first side 132 adheres to the first clamping element 22 and the second side 134 to the second clamping element 24. Preferably, the opening 130 is enlarged only to the extent that the blow nozzle 18 of the inflation device 16 can be inserted into the opening 130.

[0108] In Fig. 10 The device 10 is shown in the state of the insertion step 90 of the method 80. The clamping elements 22 and 24 are arranged in the third position 124. The size of the opening 130 therefore corresponds to the opening from Fig. 9 The blowing nozzle 18 of the inflation device 16 is inserted into the opening 130. Preferably, the blowing nozzle 18 is pivoted and / or pushed into the opening 130.

[0109] In Fig. 11 The device 10 is shown in a state of the second clamping step 92 of the method 80. Here, the two clamping elements 22 and 24 are arranged in a fourth position 126. Specifically, the first clamping element 22 rests against the first side 132 of the packaging section 54, and the second clamping element 24 rests against the second side 134 of the packaging section 54. If the clamping elements have a recess 68 as described in Fig. 3b, the fourth position corresponds to the second position. In the fourth position, the blow nozzle 18 and the second part 58 of the packaging section 54 are clamped together. This allows the packaging 52 to be inflated without gas escaping from the opening 130.

[0110] In Fig. 12 The device 10 is shown in the state of the inflation step 94 of the method 80. Here, the packaging 52 is filled with gas by the inflation device, so that the packaging at least partially detaches from the transport tray 50. In particular, the top of the packaging 52 partially detaches from the transport tray 50, which in Fig. 12 is represented by the curvature on the top side.

[0111] In Fig. 13 The device 10 is shown in the state of the second opening step 96 of the method 80. The first and second clamping elements 22, 24 are arranged in a fifth position 128. In this position, the first and second clamping elements are spaced apart such that the distance between them is greater than the height of the transport tray 50. The first side 132 adheres to the first clamping element 22, and the second side 134 adheres to the second clamping element 24. Additionally, the second fixing element 32 of the fixing device 28 is also moved along with the first clamping element 22 in the stroke direction 74 to assist in opening the top of the packaging 52.

[0112] In Fig. 14The device 10 is shown in the state of the extension step 106 of the method 100. Here, the slider 38 is moved in a thrust direction 136, which preferably corresponds to the extension direction 70 of the packaging section 54. The first fixing element 30 and the slider 38 are coupled to guide the upper side of the packaging 52 accordingly.

Claims

1. A system (76) for unpacking a transport tub (50) for objects out of a packaging (52) in which the transport tub (50) is packaged, the packaging (52) having a packaging portion (54) which extends in an extent direction (70) away from the transport tub (50), wherein the system (76) includes the packaging (52) and an apparatus (10) for opening the packaging (52), the apparatus (10) having a cutting-open device (12) for cutting open the packaging (52) in order to generate an opening (130) in the packaging (52), the cutting-open device (12) being designed to cut off a first part (56) of the packaging portion (54) in order to generate the opening (130) in the packaging (52), characterized in that the apparatus (10) has an inflating device (16) for inflating the packaging (52) through the opening (130) generated in the packaging (52).

2. The apparatus (10) as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the packaging portion (54) is arranged at a side (60) of the transport tub (50), such that the opening (130) is generated on said side (60) of the transport tub (50).

3. The apparatus (10) as claimed in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the packaging portion (54) has a second part (58) which is arranged between the first part (56) and the rest of the packaging (52), a cut generated during the cutting-off of the first part (56) of the packaging portion (54) running between the first part (56) and the second part (58).

4. The apparatus as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that the cut runs over the entire width of the packaging portion (54), the width of the packaging portion (54) extending perpendicular to the extent direction (70), a cut direction (72) of the cut in particular running perpendicular to the extent direction (70).

5. The apparatus (10) as claimed in any of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the apparatus (10) has a holding device (20) for holding a second part (58) of the packaging portion (54), the first part (56) and the second part (58) in particular differing from one another.

6. The apparatus (10) as claimed in claim 5, characterized in that the holding device (20) has a first clamping element (22) and a second clamping element (24) for clamping the second part (58) of the packaging portion (54), the first clamping element (22) and the second clamping element (24) being movable relative to one another, the first clamping element (22) and the second clamping element (24) in particular being designed to clamp the second part (58) of the packaging portion (54) over the entire width of the packaging portion (54).

7. The apparatus (10) as claimed in claim 6, characterized in that adhesion means are provided on that side of each clamping element (22, 24) which faces toward the packaging portion (54), which adhesion means are designed to adhere to the second part (58) of the packaging portion (54), in particular to draw the second part of the packaging portion (54) onto them by suction.

8. The apparatus (10) as claimed in any of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that the holding device (20) is furthermore designed to clamp the second part (58) of the packaging portion (54) during the cutting-open of the packaging (52) and / or during the inflation of the packaging (52).

9. The apparatus (10) as claimed in any of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that the holding device (20) is furthermore designed to open, in particular widen, the opening (130) before the inflation of the packaging (52) and / or after the inflation of the packaging (52).

10. The apparatus (10) as claimed in any of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the inflating device (16) has a blowing nozzle (18) which, in order to inflate the packaging (52), can be inserted into the packaging (52) through the opening (130) of the packaging (52).

11. The apparatus (10) as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that the holding device (20) is furthermore designed to clamp the second part (58) of the packaging portion (54) and the blowing nozzle (18) during the inflation of the packaging (52).

12. The apparatus (10) as claimed in claim 6 and 11, characterized in that the first clamping element and / or the second clamping element has a recess (68) for the blowing nozzle (18), the recess (68) in particular being filled with an elastic material.

13. The apparatus (10) as claimed in any of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the apparatus (10) furthermore has a fixing device (28), the fixing device (28) being designed to fix the packaging (52) and the transport tub (50) during the cutting-open and / or during the inflation.

14. The apparatus (10) as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that the fixing device (28) is furthermore designed to likewise open, in particular widen, the opening (130) after the inflation of the packaging (52).

15. The apparatus (10) as claimed in any of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the system (76) furthermore has a removal device for removing the transport tub (50) from the opened packaging (52) and / or a pusher (38) which is designed to push out the transport tub (50) from the packaging (52) after the opening of the packaging (52).

16. A method (80) for opening a packaging (52) in which a transport tub (50) for objects is packaged, characterized in that the method (80) has the following steps: - Providing (82) of the packaged transport tub (50), the packaging (52) having a packaging portion (54) which extends in an extent direction (70) away from the transport tub (50); - Cutting-open (86) of the packaging (52) by means of a cutting-open device (12) in order to generate an opening (130) in the packaging (52), the cutting-open device (12) cutting off a first part (56) of the packaging portion (54) in order to generate the opening (130) in the packaging (52); and - Inflatiing (94) the packaging (52) by means of an inflating device (16) through the opening (130) generated in the packaging (52).

17. A method (80) for unpacking a transport tub (50) for objects from a packaging (52) in which the transport tub (50) is packaged, the method having the following steps: - Opening (80) the packaging (52) in accordance with the method (80) as claimed in claim 16; and - Removing (104) the transport tub (50) from the packaging (52) by means of a removal device and / or Pushing-out (106) of the transport tub (50) from the packaging (52) by means of a pusher (38).