METHOD, APPLICATION DEVICE AND PACKAGING DEVICE FOR THE MANUFACTURING OF PACKAGING UNITS

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a method, an application device and a packaging device for the production of packaging units according to the features of the independent claims.

[0002] Users have various options for grouping individual items into larger packages. For example, beverage containers are usually bundled and packaged in sets of four, six, or more using shrink wrap. Packaging these sets is often unavoidable, as they represent the most common sales unit for beverage containers (such as PET bottles). For transport, these sets are sometimes further bundled and / or stacked in layers and palletized.

[0003] The shrink films used to manufacture common packaging require specific production steps that are relatively energy-intensive. Furthermore, the shrink film itself incurs costs for production, supply, handling, and eventual disposal, as it is no longer needed after the product is sold. The machinery required to provide the film wrapping modules and other handling stations also results in significant investment costs. Finally, the provision of the shrink tunnel, in which the shrink film wrapped around the packaging is shrunk around the bottles using hot air, also requires a relatively high capital outlay.

[0004] As an alternative, strapping systems are available in which multiple items are held together by horizontal strapping stretched around their outer surfaces. This strapping is applied during a continuous conveying process and then secured. The strapping is formed by at least one band stretched around the outer surfaces of the items and then pre-tensioned at its ends. For example, in continuous or intermittent strapping machines, containers, items, or bottles are grouped into formations and then strapped with one or more bands using strapping units. Typical formations can be, for example, 1x2 arrangements (two containers in a row), 2x2 arrangements (four containers in a square or diamond pattern), 3x2, 4x3, or, in principle, variable nxm arrangements.

[0005] The production of strapping containers is described, for example, in the patent application DE 10 2009 040 700 A1.

[0006] A disadvantage of this method is that the strapping is joined to form a continuous band on the items themselves. In particular, creating a stable connection requires additional processing time, which is a significant drawback in terms of production time and machine output, especially in continuous processing. Furthermore, every necessary function on the sealing tool for producing the continuous strapping increases the complexity of the packaging process and the tools used.

[0007] Furthermore, the use of so-called top-grip carton packaging is known, for example, to group several bottles together by their necks. A packaging machine for placing such top-grip carton packaging is described in patent specification EP 1075419 B1. In this machine, the items are arranged in a box, and the top-grip carton packaging is placed on top of the at least one item in the box. In particular, a plurality of items are arranged in the box, and by placing a smaller number of top-grip carton packaging on top, subgroups are formed, each grouping a portion of the items in the box.

[0008] The object of the invention is to optimize a packaging process for the production of packaging units, in particular to make it cost-efficient, safe and fast.

[0009] The above problem is solved by a method, an application device, and a packaging device for producing packaging units, comprising the features in the independent claims. Further advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

[0010] To achieve the aforementioned objective, the invention proposes a method for producing packaging units with the features of the independent method claim. The packaging units produced by this method are each formed by at least two grouped articles held together by at least one strapping band and by means of at least one packaging blank.

[0011] The strapping band can be made of paper, a paper-like material, plastic, a composite material, or similar materials. The strapping band encircles the group of items, being stretched around portions of the outer surfaces of the items. The strapping band has a circumference that provides sufficient tension to hold and stabilize the group of items together.

[0012] In contrast to the known state of the art, a closed strapping band is used, i.e. it is no longer necessary to make a connection between free end areas of the strapping material on the group of articles.

[0013] The items to be grouped together are preferably containers filled with a liquid, such as bottles or cans, especially beverage containers. However, the bottles, cans, or similar containers may also be filled with liquid cosmetics such as shampoo or similar products.

[0014] The packaging blanks can each preferably consist of a paper or cardboard material, a plastic material, a cardboard-plastic composite material, or similar.

[0015] Each of the packaging blanks has openings for the items grouped together via the packaging blank, these openings corresponding to the longitudinal center axes of the items to be grouped together and accommodating them as required, optionally by creating a form-fitting connection.

[0016] The method according to the invention comprises at least the following process steps: First, at least two grouped articles are provided and positioned in a movement and / or handling area of ​​an application head. At least one pre-assembled closed strapping band is inserted into this application head and fixed in a defined position. A cage of the application head has a variable opening width so that the cage can enclose the grouped articles on its outer surface.

[0017] In addition, a prepared packaging blank is inserted into the application head, whereby this packaging blank is held in a defined position in the application head.

[0018] The application head, equipped with at least one strapping band and at least one packaging blank, can then be positioned over the items by means of a delivery movement, whereby the delivery movement runs approximately parallel to the longitudinal center axes of the items. During this delivery movement, the cage of the application head contacts the grouped items on their outer surfaces and causes at least a slight compression of the contacted items.

[0019] When the application head is referred to, this can mean lowering the application head, equipped with at least one strapping band, over the items. Alternatively, it can also describe a relative movement between the application head and the group of items, which can be achieved by lifting the group of items and threading them into the application head from below.

[0020] Preferably, the design provides that, as the application head is lowered in a defined manner, the compression applied to the outer surfaces of the articles increases with increasing stroke depth until the desired compression is achieved. The required stroke is determined, for example, by the design of a compression chamfer on contoured sections of the application head, as described below. As the downward movement progresses, the strapping band inserted into the application head is pushed over the compressed group of articles.

[0021] The same applies, of course, if the article group is introduced into the application header by lifting it from below.

[0022] By precisely positioning the application head, which simultaneously compresses the items, the strapping band is placed at a predetermined position on the items. Additionally, the packaging blank is secured to the items by a precisely positioned application head that also compresses the items.

[0023] The packaging insert is attached to the items in such a way that the items partially pass through the openings in the insert and are thus held together by the insert. In particular, the packaging insert is locked to the items in this manner.

[0024] The openings of the packaging blank can each have suitable fixing devices for this purpose, which can be formed, for example, by fixing tabs. Fixing tabs are formed, for instance, by slits or similar features extending radially inwards from the openings.

[0025] Preferably, the packaging blank is attached to the items in such a way that the items are held clamped within a through-opening of the packaging blank in the area of ​​an upper taper. In particular, bottles are held clamped below a so-called neck ring and cans below a crimped rim forming the can end, thereby providing an effective locking connection between the packaging blank and the items.

[0026] After the strapping band and the packaging blank are attached to the items, the opening width of the application head cage is enlarged, while simultaneously releasing and detaching at least one strapping band from its fixed position within the application head. Additionally, at least one packaging blank is released and detached from the application head.

[0027] Finally, the application head is removed from the strapped and packaging-cut group of articles, and the application head is removed from the group of articles, thus completing a packaging unit.

[0028] A particular advantage of the method according to the invention lies in the single-phase production of packaging units, which are formed by mechanically grouping several articles together using two different fixing or packaging means. By simultaneously or almost simultaneously applying a strapping band that encompasses and clamps the articles on the outer surface and a packaging blank that binds the articles together on the upper surface, using a single application process, the production of the packaging units can be carried out faster than before and with less synchronization effort within the packaging machine, since the article groups are simultaneously ready for the application of the packaging blank and are precisely positioned during the strapping process, thus eliminating the need for multiple adjustments of different application modules to each other or to the articles to be packaged.

[0029] In one variant of the inventive method, the cage compression is released as soon as the strapping band is removed and attached to its intended target position on the group of articles, where it is positioned with the intended pretension. In this way, the strapping band tension can be adjusted by the elastic restoring forces of the compressible articles, without the need for additional devices to apply a predetermined band tension and / or to join the two open ends of the band.

[0030] Furthermore, the holder or fixation of the packaging blank can be released once the packaging blank is fixed in a defined position on the items. Since the positioning of the item group in the cage of the application unit already ensures the exact alignment and secures the relative positions of the packaging blank and the items to be covered, the packaging blank can be precisely positioned and applied to the items in conjunction with the application of the strapping band.

[0031] The method may preferably provide that the positioning of the strapping band at a designated position on the articles and the fixing of the packaging blank to the articles take place simultaneously or almost simultaneously.

[0032] However, an alternative procedure variant may optionally provide that the positioning of the strapping band at a designated position on the articles and the fixing of the packaging blank on the articles take place at different times.

[0033] In both process variants, however, the positioning of the article group within the cage of the application unit ensures the exact alignment of the articles, so that the packaging cut can be applied to the intended location without any problems, regardless of whether this is done simultaneously with the application of the strapping band or slightly later.

[0034] In the described process variants, it can optionally be provided that a closed strapping band is first produced from a strip of strapping material and then positioned directly in the application head. Preferably, pre-assembled strapping band sections are produced, joined at their ends, and only then inserted into the application head. In this way, the application head can be relatively simple in design, as both band guiding and cutting and sealing devices can be dispensed with.

[0035] Furthermore, the process can include applying a custom print to the strapping material or band before it is positioned in the application head. This variable printing option opens up diverse possibilities for giving the band a colored design, for applying product information in plain text or coded form, etc.

[0036] Further tests revealed that an additional position within the application head or cage for inserting the band can be advantageous. In this case, the clamp's plunge edge shifts slightly towards the center of the container at the corners and sides, ensuring the strapping band can always be reliably inserted behind the plunge edge. The clamps can then be moved into their respective operating positions and the band clamped.

[0037] To achieve the above-mentioned objective, the present invention proposes, in addition to the method described in various variants, an application device for the production of packaging units, each of which is formed by at least two grouped articles held together by at least one strapping band and by means of at least one packaging blank.

[0038] The application device includes a movement and / or handling area for an application head to interact with at least two articles grouped within this area. The application head is designed to apply at least one strapping band and at least one packaging blank to a group of articles.

[0039] Furthermore, the application head includes a cage with a variable opening width and an area for inserting at least one pre-assembled closed strapping band, whereby the cage can enclose the grouped items on the outer side. The application head also includes at least one holding device for a packaging blank.

[0040] In particular, the cage is segmented, and the opening width of the cage can be changed by adjusting the segments, especially by opening movements of individual cage segments perpendicular to the surface of the items or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the items. Rotational movements and combinations of rotational and translational movements are also conceivable. This allows the cage to be detached relatively easily from the strapped group of items after the strapping has been removed, without causing any impairment or damage to the packaging unit or any part thereof.

[0041] The application head, together with the at least one strapping band fixed therein and the at least one packaging blank held within it, can be lowered over the articles located in the movement space by means of a delivery movement, wherein the delivery movement runs approximately parallel to the longitudinal center axes of the articles, and wherein the cage of the application head contacts the grouped articles on their outer surfaces and compresses them at least slightly.

[0042] Furthermore, the cage of the application head can be opened while simultaneously releasing and detaching at least one strapping band from its fixed position within the application head.

[0043] Optionally, the cage of the application device can be equipped with fixing devices for the strapping band, which may include, in particular, clamping elements, suction elements, vacuum grippers, or adhesive grippers. In this way, the band can be reliably held in place within the application device until it is in its intended position on the group of items. By using controllable clamping elements, suction elements, vacuum grippers, or adhesive grippers, the band can then be detached from the application device so that it remains attached to the group of items and can wrap and clamp them together to form the packaging unit.

[0044] Furthermore, the cage of the application device can have a contoured guide on its inner circumference, which is formed at the corner radii and / or in which the inner contour of the cage is chamfered in the lowering direction towards the grouping of articles. The contoured guide can be formed, for example, by the guide or retaining elements.

[0045] The fixing devices and guide or holding elements are particularly necessary for the correct placement and securing of the strapping band within the application head.

[0046] At least part of the cage segments is preferably formed by contour pieces described below, which in particular form part of the contoured guide.

[0047] To compress the articles during the strapping process, the contour pieces are chamfered in the delivery direction, particularly in the lowering direction onto the group of articles or in the placement direction, so that during the downward movement of the application head in the direction of the article's longitudinal axis or during the upward movement of the grouped articles in the direction of the article's longitudinal axis, compression is exerted on the articles arranged within the application head, and in the course of this, the closed strapping band can be applied to the grouped articles.

[0048] The compression is released, for example, by an outward movement of the contoured pieces. Simultaneously, the strapping band is released from its fixation within the application head, allowing it to wrap tightly around the outer surfaces of the now relaxed grouped items. The packaging blank is then released.

[0049] The outward movement of the contour pieces can be radial to a center point of the application head. Alternatively, contour pieces positioned opposite each other can be moved apart by moving them in opposite directions.

[0050] In particular, the application head, in one operating mode, has a first opening width which, at least in some areas, is less than the width of the group of items, so that the group of items is compressed, at least slightly. In contrast, the area of ​​the application head in which the strapping band is arranged has a width that corresponds to the width of the uncompressed group of items.

[0051] In a release mode, the application head has a second opening width, which is larger than the width of the uncompressed group of articles and which is also larger than the width of the strapping band fixed in the application head, so that the strapped group of articles equipped with a packaging blank, which is hereinafter also referred to as the packaging unit, is released.

[0052] In particular, the contoured guide of the cage defines the ring shape of the strapping band. Temporarily fixing the strapping band within the cage is necessary to hold it in position and in the required ring shape during the application process, ensuring correct application of the strapping band to the group of items. The fixing elements can either be distributed along the circumferential contour or specifically located at key points, such as corner radii.

[0053] For example, a contoured clamp with a dipping edge or undercut can be provided, in which the strapping band is at least partially positioned. This ensures that the band is reliably held in the cage, but can also be easily detached from the cage once it is positioned on the product group.

[0054] Furthermore, additional tests have shown that an extra position in the application head or within the cage for inserting the band can be advantageous. In this case, the clamping edge is moved slightly towards the center of the container at the corners and sides, ensuring that the strapping band can always be reliably inserted behind the edge. The clamps can then be moved into their respective operating positions and the band clamped. The same applies to the packaging device described below, which uses such an application head to produce strapped packages.

[0055] Finally, the present invention comprises a packaging device for producing packaging units, each formed by at least two grouped articles held together by at least one strapping band and at least one packaging blank, wherein the packaging device comprises an application device according to one of the embodiments described above.

[0056] The packaging device according to the invention further comprises a device for producing closed strapping bands, wherein this device has at least one magazine in which a supply of strip-shaped strapping material is provided, in particular on a roll as continuous material. The device also includes a joining device for connecting free ends of the strip-shaped strapping material to form a closed strapping band.

[0057] The following describes the pre-production of the strapping band, starting with a continuous length of material. If pre-cut lengths of strapping material are used, the corresponding cutting step is omitted. This means the corresponding device does not require the cutting unit described below.

[0058] The continuous strapping material is fed to a cutting device via a feeding unit. The feeding unit is formed, for example, by two rubberized rollers, at least one of which is driven and which unwind the continuous strapping material accordingly. The cutting device is formed, for example, by a downstream knife or other suitable cutting unit.

[0059] The cutting device cuts strapping material to a defined length, and the free ends of the cut strapping material are joined together to form the ring-shaped, pre-assembled strapping band. In particular, the free ends are partially overlapped and joined together by gluing, welding, or similar processes.

[0060] For example, joining is done via a gluing unit which includes a glue application device and a pressure device to form an adhesive bond.

[0061] The gluing unit is preferably associated with a frame which, in a recess along an inner or outer circumference of the frame, forms the desired circumference of the strapping band to be produced. A circulating conveying unit is associated with the frame.

[0062] The frame can, for example, be segmented, and by adjusting individual frame segments, the frame circumference can be changed, thus adjusting the circumference of the strapping band to be formed. This allows for a response to any variations in the circumference of the product groups, or for a format change to be carried out with the same strapping material.

[0063] To transport the strapping material along an inner or outer contour of the frame, one or more vacuum belts and / or mechanical conveying elements, such as circumferential clamping elements, rubberized belts, conveyor belts, etc., can be used.

[0064] The strapping material is conveyed by the conveyor unit once around the complete inner or outer contour of the frame until an overlap has been created in the area of ​​the gluing unit.

[0065] The cut strip of strapping material is coated with glue at the beginning and / or end area via the glue application device and then pressed out by a pressure ram of the pressure device, thus creating a durable connection.

[0066] The appropriately closed strapping band can now be captured by a transfer element in the manner described above and fed to the application head of an application module for strapping a group of articles.

[0067] Integrating such a device for producing closed strapping bands into the packaging machine allows for inline adjustments to changes in the size of product groups. When changing formats, a material change is only necessary if a different strapping width is required. The costs for the preparation module are quickly recouped, as strapping material supplied on rolls is significantly cheaper than specially pre-cut closed strapping bands.

[0068] Furthermore, in connection with the present invention, inline printing of the strapping material can be provided during the formation of a strapping band or during the application of the strapping band to the articles.

[0069] In particular, it is intended that a type of scatter print is applied to the strapping material as the basic print design. This is a printed image that is continuously repeated at defined intervals. Ideally, the repetition interval is designed such that, for all formats to be processed, especially container circumferences, it results in at least one complete repetition of the pattern per circumference of a closed strapping band, across the respective width of the strapping material.

[0070] Furthermore, if the closed strapping band being formed requires container-specific printing, a blank area is incorporated into the printed surface. The desired printing, such as a barcode, format information, expiration date, or similar, can be applied inline to this blank area. For this purpose, a printing unit can be integrated within the device for producing closed strapping bands, allowing the desired printing to be applied during the formation of the closed strapping band.

[0071] Alternatively, a corresponding printer unit can also be assigned to the application module, whereby the printing can take place before the application of the closed strapping band to the grouped articles or after the formation of the packaging unit.

[0072] The position of the inline printing within the blank fields can be determined either by evaluating the rolled-out length and calculating back the position of the blank field to be printed.

[0073] Alternatively, sensor-based detection of the blank area or other markings present on the strapping material can be provided. For example, detection of a specific geometric marking that is part of the spreading print or similar is conceivable.

[0074] The advantage of inline printing is the reduction in the required strapping material, as it can now be used flexibly. This allows for further reductions in material costs, since the same strapping material can be used for different products.

[0075] It should be expressly mentioned here that all aspects and embodiments explained in connection with the device according to the invention equally relate to, or can relate to, partial aspects of the method according to the invention. Therefore, whenever certain aspects, relationships, and / or effects are mentioned in the description or in the definitions of the claims relating to the device according to the invention, this applies equally to the method according to the invention. Conversely, the same applies, so that all aspects and embodiments explained in connection with the method according to the invention equally relate to, or can relate to, partial aspects of the device according to the invention.Therefore, if at any point in the description or in the claim definitions for the method according to the invention certain aspects and / or relationships and / or effects are mentioned, this applies equally to the device according to the invention.

[0076] The following exemplary embodiments of the invention and its advantages will be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying figures. The relative sizes of the individual elements in the figures do not always correspond to the actual relative sizes, as some shapes are simplified and others are enlarged for better illustration. Fig. 1 shows a strapping unit of an application head for the production of packaging units in a perspective view from a slanted top. Fig. 2 The strapping unit shows according to Fig. 1in a perspective view from a slant above showing a grouping of articles arranged within it, which are to be strapped to produce a packaging unit. Figs. 3 to 5 show the strapping unit according to Figures 1 and 2 , each in top-down views. Figures 6 to 12 show the different steps of a process for manufacturing packaging units. Figures 13 to 15 show different views of a contour piece. Figures 16 to 21 show the transfer process of the strapping band to the strapping unit of the application head. Figures 22 and 23 show the pre-production of the strapping band. Fig. 24 shows the inline printing during the formation of a strapping band.

[0077] Identical reference numerals are used for identical or equivalently functioning elements of the invention. Furthermore, for the sake of clarity, only those reference numerals necessary for describing the respective figure are shown in the individual figures. The illustrated embodiments merely represent examples of how the device or method according to the invention may be configured and do not constitute an exhaustive limitation.

[0078] The perspective representations of Figures 1 and 2 Each figure shows a strapping unit 70 of an application head 1 for the production of packaging units in oblique top views. Figures 3 to 5 Each shows the strapping unit 70 according to Figures 1 and 2 in top-down views.

[0079] The one in the Figures 1 to 5The application head 1 shown as an example is designed and constructed to attach at least one strapping band 15 to an article group 12 comprising at least two articles 10, wherein the strapping band 15 is attached to the outer surfaces of the articles 10 in such a way that these are at least partially spanned by the strapping band 15, whereby the entire article group 12 is also spanned and held together by the strapping band 15.

[0080] The closed strapping band 15, which mechanically holds the article group 12 together in this manner, can be made of, in particular, a paper material, a paper-like material, a plastic material, a composite material, or the like. The material and thickness of the strapping band 15 depend on the mechanical stability required to hold the article group 12 together.

[0081] The articles to be summarized 10 are preferably containers filled with a fluid content, for example bottles 11 or cans, in particular beverage containers. The bottles 11 or cans or similar containers can also be filled, for example, with fluid cosmetics such as shampoo or the like. The schematic representation of the Fig. 2 This suggests that bottles 11, for example, may be plastic containers for holding beverages, especially PET containers.

[0082] The application head 1 is further designed to apply, in temporal connection with the application of at least one strapping band 15 to the article group 12, an additional packaging blank 60 to the articles 10 of article group 12, as described below in connection with the Figures 6 to 12 This will be described in more detail later.

[0083] The strapping unit 70 shown here has a cage 50 with a variable opening width W, adjustable by means of suitable actuators, which can completely enclose the grouped articles 10 on its outer surface. In particular, the opening width W of the cage 50 can be changed by adjusting movements of several interconnected contour pieces 2, which are adjustable in their relative positions to one another. These contour pieces 2 form at least a part of the segments from which the cage 50 is formed.

[0084] Furthermore, the strapping unit 70 comprises at least one contour piece 2 with a compression chamfer 6, the geometry of which is selected such that a downward movement of the strapping unit 70 in a direction parallel to the article longitudinal axes L or an upward movement of the article group 12 in a direction parallel to the article longitudinal axes L causes compression on at least two grouped articles 10 arranged within the strapping unit 70 (cf. Figures 2 and 4 ) is exerted and in the course of which a closed pre-produced strapping band 15 can be applied to the grouped articles 10. This means that the compression slopes 6 form an overall conical or widening profile of the opening cross-section of the cage 50 towards a lower opening.

[0085] In the illustrated example, the cage 50 is formed by the contour pieces 2, the clamping elements 3, and the guide / holding elements 4. All these parts are connected to one another but can perform the relative movements described in more detail below in order to vary the opening width of the cage 50 as needed. In particular, the cage 50 has a contoured guide 51 on its inner circumference, which is especially pronounced at the corner radii. Furthermore, the inner contour of the cage 50 is chamfered in the downward direction towards the article group 12, particularly in the area of ​​the contour elements 2.

[0086] The strapping unit 70 is further equipped with clamping elements 3 and guide / holding elements 4, as well as suction elements 5 located on the inside of the cage 50. These clamping elements 3, guide / holding elements 4, and suction elements 5 are particularly necessary for the correct positioning and securing of the strapping band 15 within the strapping unit 70 (see figure). Fig. 2 ).

[0087] The schematic top views of the Figures 3 and 4 Figure 1 shows the strapping unit 70 with the article group 12 arranged therein, which in the illustrated embodiment comprises a total of six articles 10, in particular six bottles 11, which are arranged in a rectangular configuration. Fig. 3The articles 10 are partially compressed by the contour pieces 2 when the cage 50 is lowered over and encompasses the article group 12. The strapping band (not shown) is located in the strapping unit 70 of the application head 1 in a clamping arrangement.

[0088] According to Fig. 4 The compression of the articles 10 is released by an outward movement of the contour elements 2 as soon as the cage 50, together with the strapping band held within it, is positioned at a predetermined height on the article group 12. Furthermore, the fixation of the strapping band within the strapping unit 70 is released by an inward movement of the clamping elements 3, at least briefly.

[0089] If the suction elements 5 are active suction elements 5 subjected to negative pressure, the negative pressure on the suction elements 5 is simultaneously lifted with the inward movement of the clamping elements 3, which allows the strapping band held there to be detached.

[0090] In the Figures 3 to 5 The change in the opening width W is also shown. Thus, the Fig. 3 The strapping unit 70 operates in mode BM with a smaller opening width W of the cage 50. In this mode BM, the articles 10 are strapped using the strapping band arranged in the strapping unit 70 (not shown). In mode BM, the application head has a first opening width W1, which is at least slightly smaller in some areas than the width of the article group 12, so that the article group 12 is compressed at least slightly.

[0091] In contrast, the Fig. 4The strapping unit 70 is in a release mode FM, into which it is transferred after the strapping process is completed, in order to release the strapped articles 10. In release mode FM, the opening of the cage 50 is therefore larger compared to operating mode BM (strapping mode). In this release mode FM, the application head has a second opening width W2, which is larger than the width of article group 12, so that article group 12 is released.

[0092] To switch the strapping unit 70 from operating mode BM to release mode FM, opposing contour pieces 2 are moved apart, thus distancing them from the article group 12 on both sides. In this case, the contour pieces 2 on the left are moved to the left and the contour pieces 2 on the right are moved to the right, thereby increasing the opening width W.

[0093] In particular, the contour pieces 2 arranged on the left and the clamping element 3 arranged between them are assigned to a first frame element 55, which can be moved via hydraulic or pneumatic adjusting means 57. Furthermore, the contour pieces 2 arranged on the left and the clamping element 3 arranged between them are assigned to a second frame element 56, which can be moved via hydraulic or pneumatic adjusting means 58.

[0094] Alternatively, the contour pieces 2 could be used - as in Fig. 5 depicted - starting from a center point M, being moved away from it in order to increase the opening width W.

[0095] The schematic side views of the Figures 6 to 12 show the different steps of a process for manufacturing packaging units 13, wherein the in Fig. 11 The step shown is optional and can be omitted if necessary. Figures 6 to 12Each section shows a cross-sectional view through an application head 1 with articles 10 arranged therein, so that the different phases of the formation of the packaging units from the mechanically connected article groups 12 can be illustrated.

[0096] The application head 1 includes in particular a [missing information] in the Figures 1 to 5 The strapping unit 70 already shown, as well as an application unit 71 arranged above and coupled to the strapping unit 70. This application unit 71 is designed and configured to additionally attach a packaging blank 60 from above to an upper area of ​​the articles 10, in particular to an upper lid or closure area of ​​the articles 10, in temporal connection with the strapping of an article group 12 with a strapping band 15.

[0097] The packaging blank 60, which mechanically connects the articles 10 in addition to the strapping band 15 and holds the article group 12 together, is essentially flat, which in particular means a low thickness of the packaging blank 60 compared to its length and width.

[0098] The packaging blanks 60 can each preferably consist of a paper or cardboard material, a plastic material, a cardboard-plastic composite material or similar.

[0099] Each of the packaging blanks 60 has openings for the articles 10 grouped together via the packaging blank 60, which openings correspond to the longitudinal center axes L of the articles 10 to be grouped together.

[0100] The packaging blank 60 is attached to the articles 10 in such a way that the articles 10 partially pass through the openings of the packaging blank 60 and are thus held together by the packaging blank 60. In particular, the packaging blank 60 is locked to the articles 10 in this manner.

[0101] The openings of the packaging blank 60 can each have suitable fixing devices for this purpose, which can be formed, for example, by fixing tabs. Fixing tabs are formed, for instance, by incisions or similar features extending radially inwards from the openings.

[0102] The packaging blank 60 is placed onto the articles 10 from above in an approximately perpendicular direction to their longitudinal center axes, so that the articles 10 at least partially pass through the openings in the packaging blank 60 and, after the packaging blank 60 is secured, are located partly above and partly below the packaging blank 60. If the articles 10 are bottles 11 or cans, then preferably the closure area is arranged above the packaging blank 60, while the fluid-filled body is arranged below the packaging blank 60.

[0103] Particularly preferably, the packaging blank 60 is fixed to each article 10 in such a way that the articles 10 are held clamped within a through-opening of the packaging blank 60 in the area of ​​an upper taper. In particular, bottles 11 are held clamped below a so-called neck ring and cans below a crimped rim forming the can edge, thereby providing an effective locking connection between the packaging blank 60 and the articles 10.

[0104] After the packaging blank 60 has been arranged and attached to the articles 10, it preferably engages with the articles 10 in such a way that the packaging blank 60 is essentially fixed in place and the articles 10 can no longer make any significant relative movements or changes in position relative to each other or to the packaging blank 60. Thus, it can only be removed from the articles 10 with considerable force, either downwards or upwards, and the packaging blank 60 is usually at least partially destroyed in the process. However, the removal of the packaging blank 60 from the articles 10 is generally only carried out by the end customer immediately before consuming the liquid contained in the articles 10, i.e., in particular, before consuming the contents of the bottle.

[0105] As part of the process, at least two grouped articles 10 are provided as article group 12 and positioned in a movement and / or handling area of ​​an application head 1. In the example shown, six articles 10 are provided in two rows of three, although only one row of three is visible due to the sectional view.

[0106] In particular, when the application unit 71 and the strapping unit 70 of the application head 1 are used as intended, it is provided that strapping and an upper packaging cut are applied to the articles 10 of the article group 12 essentially simultaneously.

[0107] In temporal connection with the provision of the articles 10 in the movement and / or handling area of ​​the application head 1, either simultaneously or prior to or directly following the provision of the article group 12, at least one pre-assembled closed strapping band 15 is inserted into the application head 1 and fixed in a defined position within the application head 1 by means of the clamping elements 3 (see figure). Fig. 6 ). In particular, the at least one pre-assembled closed strapping band 15 is inserted into the strapping unit 70 of the application head 1 and fixed in a defined position within the strapping unit 70 of the application head 1 by means of the clamping elements 3 ( Fig. 6 ).

[0108] The ring shape of the typically closed and pre-assembled strapping band 15 in the required length is defined and maintained by the contour pieces 2 and the guide pieces 4 (cf. Figures 1 to 5 To hold the strapping band 15 in position or in the required ring shape during the application process, the clamping elements 3 and suction elements 5, or adhesion grippers, vacuum grippers, etc., already described, are provided to ensure the application of the strapping band 15 to the article group 12. These can either be distributed along the circumferential contoured guide 51 or located specifically at prominent points, for example, in the area of ​​the corner radii, etc. For example, a contoured clamp with a plunge edge or an undercut – as is the case in connection with the Figures 13 to 15as described below - along the entire contoured guide 51 of the cage 50 of the strapping unit 70 of the application head 1 or also in parts.

[0109] Furthermore, the application head 1 is equipped with a packaging blank 60 of the required size. Specifically, the packaging blank 60 is inserted into the application head 1 and held in a defined position by means of a suitable holding device 72. In particular, the holding device 72, which secures the packaging blank 60, is assigned to the application unit 71.

[0110] Subsequently, the application head 1, equipped with at least one strapping band 15 and a packaging blank 60, is lowered over the articles 10 by means of a delivery movement, whereby the cage 50 of the strapping unit 70 of the application head 1 contacts the grouped articles 10 on their outer sides and compresses them at least slightly.

[0111] When, in the present context, the term "lowering" the application head 1 over the grouped articles 10 is used, this can also refer to lifting the grouped articles 10 from below into the application head 1, or more generally, to a delivery movement of the articles 10 and the application head 1 with a direction of movement parallel to the longitudinal center axes of the articles 10. It should therefore be clarified that these variations can also be implied by the term "lowering."

[0112] By lowering the application head 1 in a defined manner according to Figures 7 to 9 (Or more generally, by the delivery movement of the application head 1 to the grouped articles 10), the strapping band 15 is positioned at a designated position on the articles 10. As the stroke depth increases, the compression applied to the outer surfaces of the articles 10 increases until the desired compression is achieved. The required stroke is determined and maintained by the design of the compression chamfer 6 on the contour pieces 2 of the strapping unit 70 of the application head 1. As the downward movement progresses, the inserted strapping band 15 is pushed over the compressed group of articles 12.

[0113] Meanwhile, the packaging blank 60 is placed onto the tops of the articles 10. A further downward movement of the application head 1 secures the packaging blank 60 to the articles 10.

[0114] Depending on the desired position of the packaging blank 60 and the strapping band 15, which is primarily determined by the size, contour, and geometry of the items 10 to be packaged, the strapping band 15 is generally applied first to the desired position on the group of items 12. As the downward movement progresses, the packaging blank 60 is then pressed onto the group of items 12 from above. However, reversing this sequence and simultaneously applying both packaging elements—i.e., the packaging blank 60 and the strapping band 15—are also conceivable.

[0115] When the strapping band 15 and the packaging blank 60 reach the desired position at the article grouping 12, the downward movement is stopped ( Fig. 9 ).

[0116] The at least one strapping band 15 is now released and detached from its fixed position within the strapping unit 70 of the application head 1. In particular, to release the fixation of the strapping band 15, the clamping between the strapping band 15 and the clamping pieces 3 and / or the suction connection between the strapping band 15 and the suction elements (not visible) is released.

[0117] Subsequently, or essentially simultaneously, the opening width W of the cage 50 of the application head 1 is increased to relieve the compression between the cage 50 and the strapped article group 12, which is bundled with packaging blank 60. After the application head 1 is detached, the strapped article group 12, bundled with packaging blank 60, forms a packaging unit 13.

[0118] In particular, after the packaging units 13 have been manufactured, the cage 50 is opened by opening movements of individual segments of the cage 50 directed perpendicularly away from the outer surface of the articles 10. For example, the contour pieces 2 are moved away from each other in opposite directions, as indicated by the horizontally oriented arrows in Fig. 10 This is shown. At least the strapping unit 70 of the application head 1 is transferred to release mode FM with a second opening width W2.

[0119] In particular, the contour elements 2 are moved away from the finished packaging units 13 by a movement perpendicular to the article's longitudinal axis L, whereby a rotational movement as well as a combination of rotational and translational movement is also conceivable. This creates a gap between the compression surfaces formed by the compression slope 6 and the articles 10, causing the articles 10 to return to their original position and generating tension on the strapping band 15, thus creating the necessary container stability.

[0120] In particular, it is provided that the compression of the cage 50 is lifted as soon as the strapping band 15 is stripped off and attached to its intended target position on the article group 12 and positioned there with the intended pretension.

[0121] Depending on the arrangement of the fixing elements, in particular the clamping elements 3, it may be necessary – for example, if the clamping elements 3 hold the strapping band 15 at the lower edge – to continue the downward movement of the application head 1 after releasing the fixing until the strapping band 15 is outside the fixing area and only then release the compression ( Fig. 11 Additionally, to release the compression, it may also be necessary to move the clamping elements 3 away from the packaging unit 13 in order to avoid a collision when lifting the application head 1 with that of the packaging unit 13.

[0122] At the same time as the cage 50 is opened, it can preferably be provided that the at least one retaining means 72 releases the packaging blank 60 applied to the articles 10 from the application unit 71.

[0123] The application head 1, which is in release mode FM, is removed from the packaging unit 13 in the opposite direction of application and moved back to an initial position for re-stacking with a strapping band 15 and a packaging blank 60 ( Fig. 12 By lifting the packaging unit 13, which is equipped with a strapping band 15 and a packaging blank 60, it is released and can now be used for further handling, for example palletizing or similar (not shown here).

[0124] After the packaging unit 13 has been released, the application head 1 is returned to operating mode BM by a corresponding delivery movement of the contour pieces 2 of the strapping unit.

[0125] Alternatively, the compression could also be released by the strapping unit 70 of the application head 1 before the application of the packaging blank 60 by a further downward movement of the application head 1, for example, if the end position of the strapping band is reached before the end position of the packaging blank 60 on the article group 12 due to the existing container geometry. In this case, the release of the packaging blank 60 must not be linked to the adjustment of the opening width W of the cage 50 of the strapping unit 70.

[0126] Preferably, the strapping band 15 is inserted into the application head 1 in such a way that the part of the strapping band 15 with the connection point, in particular the adhesive joint or weld joint, etc., is positioned on a side of the packaging unit 13 that is perpendicular to the subsequent transport direction of the packaging unit 13. This prevents the connection point, where sections of the strapping band 15 may overlap, from snagging on guide rails of subsequent handling modules or similar devices and causing the strapping band 15 to tear.

[0127] The combination of two previously separate packaging steps using a combined application process, as described here, leads to significantly reduced process times. Since only a single application module is required instead of two separate packaging modules, the footprint of the packaging machine is reduced. Furthermore, the application of the packaging blank 60 and the strapping band 15 is better coordinated, as only one synchronization of the application head 1, which performs both packaging steps, is necessary for the product group 12, rather than multiple synchronizations of successive application steps that are separated in time and space.

[0128] The schematic representations of Figures 13 to 15Figures 1 and 2 show different views of a contour piece 2 of the strapping unit 70 of an application head 1, as previously shown and described. In particular, the figures show Figures 13 and 15 each a side view and Fig. 14 a top view of contour piece 2.

[0129] The contour pieces 2 are shaped and designed in such a way that, when installed, they align in the direction of the article's longitudinal axis L (compare Figures 2 and 12 ) has an insertion area 7, a compression area 8 and a recessed area 9 behind the compression area 8. The recessed area 9 is designed in particular as a dipping edge 20 or undercut 21, which is intended to allow the strapping band to be guided to its intended position without being prematurely stripped off the contour pieces 2.

[0130] The strapping band 15 is placed in the recessed area 9 of the contour piece 2 ( Fig. 15). This is necessary to prevent the strapping band 15 from contacting the contour of the articles 10, which would lead to premature snagging of the strapping band 15 during the downward movement of the application head (cf. Figures 6 to 9 This could lead to problems. The strapping band 15 could be overstretched or damaged, or correct application to article group 12 could be prevented.

[0131] The circumference of the pre-assembled closed strapping band 15 is selected such that it is protected by the recessed area 9 or undercut 21, but is no larger than necessary. When the compression is released, a strapping band 15 with an excessively large circumference would not achieve sufficient tension between the strapping band 15 and the group of articles 12, which must be avoided. In particular, the friction between the articles 10 would be lost, leading to reduced container stability. Therefore, the appropriate length of the strapping band depends on the total circumference of the group of articles 12 and the deformability of the articles 10 within the group, which, after the strapping band is applied, can provide the necessary tension through their restoring forces.

[0132] The compression applied to the individual articles 10 of the article group 12 is defined by the geometry of the contour piece 2 and the inner opening width of the cage 50 with the contour pieces 2 arranged therein. The degree of compression is determined by the difference between the compression radius R for the respective compression axis and the uncompressed article radius. The contour piece 2 can, in particular, have a radius R(I) for compression K(I) along the article group 12 and / or a radius R(q) for compression K(q) transverse to the article group 12.

[0133] Compression is always applied in at least one direction to the respective contacted articles 10 of article group 12. Typically, compression K(I) is applied lengthwise to article group 12. Alternatively, compression K(q) can also be applied crosswise to article group 12. A combination of both compression axes is also possible, i.e., compression K(I) lengthwise to article group 12 and compression K(q) crosswise to article group 12. In this case, the movement of contour piece 2 occurs according to... Fig. 5 in the direction of movement BR as represented by the arrow of movement.

[0134] During compression in one axis, the inner contour 22 of the contour piece 2 is designed such that, starting from the compression radius R, the radius tapers until it meets the uncompressed radius, so that in this axis only the articles 10 are guided. For two-axis compression, the respective compression radii R(I) and R(q) can be chosen differently. In addition to the geometry of the contour pieces 2, the final compression can be further adjusted by moving the contour pieces 2 a further time to the article group 12.

[0135] The selected shape and inclination of the insertion ramp, designated as compression ramp 6, influence how quickly the desired compression of the article group 12 is achieved. In particular, the selected shape also determines the downward stroke of the application head 1, or the relative stroke in the direction of the article's longitudinal axis relative to the article group 12. Furthermore, it also influences the force required for compression, as the steepness of the compression ramp 6 generates more or less friction when the strapping unit 70 of the application head 1 is pushed onto the article group 12. The height H of the insertion area 7 and the angle α of the compression ramp 6 thus allow the geometry to be designed to suit the respective article group 12, particularly depending on the desired compression, the article geometry, and the corresponding friction pairings.

[0136] Preferably, the application head 1 is designed such that it can process various articles 10 with the same or a similar article geometry, even if the opening width of the cage 50 differs from the base area of ​​the respective article group 12. If the application head 1 is to be used for different base dimensions of different article groups 12, the desired or technically required compression must be adjustable by appropriately positioning the contour pieces 2 in the longitudinal and transverse axes. This allows defined, similar diameter ranges to be covered.

[0137] The cage 50 provided by the strapping unit 70 of the application head 1 can also be enlarged or reduced by optionally inserting further guide and holding elements 4 or by removing guide and holding elements 4, and thus adapted to different container sizes.

[0138] The contour pieces 2 of the strapping unit 70 of the application head 1 press the articles 10 between the strapping band 15, whereby, due to the compression of the articles 10, there is initially a certain distance between the strapping band 15 held in the strapping unit 70 of the application head 1 and the group of articles 12. Thus, there is a spatial separation between the strapping band 15 and the articles 10, which is eliminated when the compression is released.

[0139] The Figures 16 to 21Figure 1 shows the transfer process of the pre-assembled strapping band 15 to the strapping unit 70 of the application head 1, so that it can be made ready for applying the strapping to a prepared group of articles 12. Figure 2 shows the process of applying the strapping unit 70 to the application head 1, so that the application head 1 can be made ready for application of the strapping to a prepared group of articles 12. Figure 16 , 18 and 20 Each a side view of the strapping unit 70, while the Figure 17 , 19 and 21 to show a corresponding view from above.

[0140] A transfer element 25, which has exactly or approximately the contour of the pre-assembled strapping ring 15 to be inserted, serves to insert the strapping band into the application head 1. The transfer element 25 takes the ring-shaped strapping band 15 from a corresponding preparation module (not shown). The transfer element 25 with the strapping band 15 is placed over the strapping unit 70 of the application head 1 ( Figures 16 and 17 ).

[0141] Preferably, the strapping band 15 is fixed to the transfer element 25 by suitable suction elements, clamping elements, or other suitable fixing devices, wherein preferably the lower edge of the strapping band 15 extends below the transfer element 25 so that the lower portion of the strapping band 15 can be inserted into the clamping elements 3 of the strapping unit 70 of the application head 1. If the strapping band 15 is held within the strapping unit 70 of the application head 1 only by suction elements 5, the lower extension of the strapping band 15 beyond the transfer element 25 is unnecessary. In this case, it would also be possible to insert the strapping band 15 into the transfer element 25 from below.

[0142] The strapping band 15 is now placed in a desired arrangement within the strapping unit 70 of the application head 1 by a downward movement of the transfer element 25 and / or an upward movement of the application head 1 ( Figures 18 and 19 ). By closing the clamping elements 3 - which is in the Figures 19 and 21 is marked and clarified by an asterisk - and / or by activating the suction elements 5 of the strapping unit 70 of the application head 1 and opening and / or deactivating corresponding fixing devices of the transfer element 25, the strapping band 15 is transferred from the transfer element 25 to the strapping unit 70 of the application head 1.

[0143] The transfer element 25 is then removed by an upward movement of the same or a downward movement of the application head 1 ( Figures 20 and 21) and can then be moved into a starting position for re-strapping with another strapping band 15. It may be necessary to reduce the circumference of the transfer element 25 to ensure reliable removal of the strapping band from the application head 1. For this purpose, the transfer element 25 can be segmented, with the segments moving towards a center point of the transfer element 25, thereby reducing its circumference.

[0144] A particular advantage of the method described above is that no gluing or other fixing of the strapping band 15 to the article group 12 is required. The complexity of the strapping process can be reduced by using the appropriately designed application head 1.

[0145] To equip the strapping unit 70 with the strapping band 15, it may be necessary that at least parts of the (in the Figures 16 to 21 (not shown) application unit 71 of the application head (compare Figures 6 to 12 ) can be temporarily folded outwards or similarly so that the transfer element 25 with the strapping band 15 has access to the strapping unit 70.

[0146] The schematic views of the Figures 22 and 23 Figure 1 shows the pre-production of the strapping band 15 in a preparation module 30. Here, a continuous strapping material 16, for example as a roll material 17 in the required width, is provided. This is fed into a corresponding preparation module 30 via a feeding device 31 to a cutting device 32.

[0147] The feeding device 31 can, for example, be formed by two counter-rotating rubberized rollers that unwind the roll material 17 accordingly. The cutting device 32 is formed, for example, by a downstream knife or other suitable cutting unit.

[0148] The cutting device 32 cuts the strapping material 16 to a defined length, and the free end sections of the cut strapping material 16 are joined together to form the ring-shaped, pre-assembled strapping band 15. In particular, the free end sections are arranged to partially overlap and are joined together by gluing, welding, or similar processes.

[0149] In the illustrated embodiment, a gluing unit 33 is shown, which comprises a glue application device 34 and a pressure device 35 for the formation of an adhesive bond.

[0150] The gluing unit 33 is assigned a frame 36, which, in a recess, represents the desired circumference of the strapping band 15 to be formed, and a circulating conveying unit 37 assigned to the frame 36. The frame 36 can be segmented, and by adjusting individual frame segments, the frame circumference, and thus the circumference of the strapping band 15 to be formed, can be adjusted.

[0151] This allows for a response to any fluctuations in the size of the product groups, or for a format change to be carried out using the same strapping material 16.

[0152] To transport the strapping material 16 along an inner or an outer contour of the frame 36, one or more vacuum belts and / or mechanical conveying elements, for example circumferential clamping elements, rubberized belts, conveyor belts or the like, can be used.

[0153] The strapping material 16 is conveyed once around the complete inner or outer contour of the frame 36 via the conveying unit 37 until an overlap has been created in the area of ​​the gluing unit 33.

[0154] The cut strip of strapping material 16 is provided with glue at the beginning area and / or at the end area via the glue application device 34, the beginning area and the end area are arranged overlapping each other and then pressed out by a pressure plunger of the pressure device 35, thereby creating a load-bearing connection.

[0155] The appropriately closed strapping band 15 can now be gripped by a transfer element 25 in the manner described above and fed to the application head 1 of an application module 40 for strapping a group of articles. The application module 40 has a movement and / or handling space for the application head 1 to interact with at least two articles grouped within the movement and / or handling space.

[0156] By installing such a preparation module 30, changes in the size of the product groups can be addressed inline. When changing formats, a material change is only necessary if a different width of the strapping material 16 is required. The costs for the preparation module 30 are quickly recouped, as strapping material 16 supplied on rolls is significantly cheaper than specially pre-assembled closed strapping bands 15.

[0157] The Fig. 24 shows a so-called inline printing during the formation of a strapping band 15, which is supplied as an endless roll material 17 according to Figures 22 and 23 is provided. In particular, it is provided that a type of scatter print 44 is applied to the roll material 17 as a basic print design. This is a printed image that is repeated at a defined distance A. Ideally, the distance A is designed such that, for all formats to be processed, especially package circumferences, it results in at least one complete repetition of the pattern per length of a strapping band 15 in the respective width of the strapping material 16.

[0158] Furthermore, if a container-specific print is to be present on the strapping band 15 being trained, a blank field 45 is formed as part of the scatter print 44. The desired printing can be applied inline to this blank field 45, for example in the form of a barcode, format information, best-before date, etc. For this purpose, a printer unit 41 arranged within the preparation module 30 ( Fig. 23 ) so that the desired printing takes place during the formation of the closed strapping band 15. Alternatively, a corresponding printing unit can also be assigned to the application module 40, whereby the printing can take place before the application of the closed strapping band 15 to the grouped articles or after the formation of the packaging unit.

[0159] The position of the inline printing within the blank areas 45 can be determined either by evaluating the unrolled length and calculating the position of the blank area 45 to be printed. Alternatively, sensor-based detection of the blank area or other markings present on the strapping material 16 can be provided. For example, the detection of a specific geometric marking that is part of the scatter print 44 is conceivable.

[0160] The advantage of such inline printing is the reduction in the required strapping material 16, as it can now be used flexibly. This allows material costs to be further reduced, since the same strapping material 16 can be used for different products.

[0161] The embodiments, examples, and variants described in the preceding paragraphs, the claims, or the following description and the figures, including their various views or individual features, may be used independently or in any combination. Features described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments, provided the features are not incompatible.

[0162] Although schematic representations and views are mentioned in this context, this does not imply that the figures and their descriptions are of minor importance with regard to the disclosure of the invention. The person skilled in the art is perfectly capable of extracting sufficient information from the schematic and abstract drawings to facilitate their understanding of the invention, without their understanding being impaired in any way by the drawn and potentially not exactly to-scale dimensions of the articles and / or parts of the application device or other drawn elements.The figures thus enable the expert as reader to derive a better understanding of the inventive concept formulated in the claims and in the general part of the description of general and / or abstract concepts, based on the more concretely explained implementations of the inventive method and the more concretely explained functioning of the inventive device.

[0163] The invention has been described with reference to a preferred embodiment. However, it is conceivable to a person skilled in the art that modifications or alterations of the invention can be made without departing from the scope of protection of the following claims. Reference symbol list

[0164] 1 Application head 2 Contour piece 3 Clamping element 4 Guide or holding element 5 Suction element 6 Compression chamfer 7 Insertion area 8 Compression area 9 Recessed area 10 Article 11 Bottle 12 Article group 13 Packaging unit 15 Strapping band 16 Strapping material 17 Roll material 20 Dip edge 21 Undercut 22 Inner contour 25 Transfer element 30 Preparation module 31 Feeding device 32 Cutting device 33 Gluing unit 34 Glue application device 35 Pressure device 36 Frame 37 Circulating conveyor unit 40 Application module 41 Printer unit 44 Spreading pressure 45 Empty space 50 Cage 51 Contoured guide 55 First frame element 56 Second frame element 57 Adjusting device 58 Adjusting device 60 Packaging blank 70 Strapping unit 71 Application unit 72 Holding device α Angle A Distance BM Operating mode BR Direction of movement FM Release mode HH Height K(I) Compression along the article group K(q) Compression across the article group L Article longitudinal axis M Center R Compression radius R(I) Radius for compression along the length R(q) Radius for compression across the length W Opening width W1 Opening width in operating mode W2 Opening width in release mode

Claims

1. A method for the production of packaging units (13), which packaging units (13) are each formed by at least two articles (10) grouped together and being held together by at least one strapping band (15) and by means of at least one packaging blank (60), wherein the method provides at least the following method steps: • providing of the at least two grouped articles (10) which are positioned in a range of movement and / or range of handling of an application head (1), and wherein the method is characterised by the method steps: • inserting of at least one prefabricated closed strapping band (15) into the application head (1) in which the strapping band (15) is fixed in a defined position, which application head (1) has a variable opening width (W) of a cage (50) which can enclose the grouped articles (10) on the outer side, • inserting of a prepared packaging blank (60) into the application head (1) in which the packaging blank (60) is being held in a defined position, • advancing of the application head (1) equipped with the at least one strapping band (15) and with at least one packaging blank (60) toward the articles (10) by means of an advance movement running approximately parallel to longitudinal central axes (L) of the articles (10), wherein the cage (50) of the application head (1) contacts the grouped articles (10) at their outer sides and compresses them at least slightly, • positioning of the strapping band (15) at an intended position of the articles (10) by defined advancing of the application head (1) which compresses the articles (10) at the same time, • securing of the packaging blank (60) to the articles (10) by defined advancing of the application head (1) which compresses the articles (10) at the same time, • increasing of the opening width (W) of the cage (50) of the application head (1) with simultaneously release and disengagement of the at least one strapping band (15) from its fixed position within the application head (1), • release and disengagement of the at least one packaging blank (60), • removal of the application head (1) from the article grouping (12) that is strapped and gathered together by a packaging blank (60).

2. The method according to claim 1, in which the compression of the cage (50) is released as soon as the strapping band (15) is slipped off and arranged on the article grouping (12) at its intended target position and positioned there with the intended pre-tension.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, in which the holder of the packaging blank (60) is released as soon as the packaging blank (60) is located in a defined position on the articles (10).

4. The method according to one of the claims 1 to 3, in which the positioning of the strapping band (15) on the articles at an intended position and the securing of the packaging blank (60) to the articles (10) is carried out at the same time.

5. The method according to one of the claims 1 to 3, in which the positioning of the strapping band (15) on the articles at an intended position and the securing of the packaging blank (60) to the articles (10) is carried out in a temporally offset manner.

6. The method according to one of the claims 1 to 5, in which a closed strapping band (15) is produced from a strapping material (16) provided in a strip-shaped form and is directly afterwards positioned in the application head (1).

7. The method according to claim 6, in which an individual print is applied onto the strapping material (16) or onto the strapping band (15) prior to the positioning of the strapping band (15) in the application head (1).

8. An application apparatus (40) for the production of packaging units (13), which packaging units (13) are each formed by at least two articles (10) grouped together and being held together by at least one strapping band (15) and by means of at least one packaging blank (60), • which application apparatus (40) has a range of movement and / or range of handling for an application head (1) assigned to it in order to interact with at least two grouped articles (10) within the range of movement and / or range of handling, wherein the application apparatus (40) is characterised in that • the application head (1) comprises a cage (50) with a variable opening width and an area for inserting at least one prefabricated closed strapping band (15), wherein the cage (50) can enclose the grouped articles (10) on the outer side, • the application head (1) comprises at least one holding means (72) for a packaging blank (60), • the application head (1) together with the at least one strapping band (15) fixed therein and the at least one packaging blank (60) being held thereby is advanceable by means of an advance movement toward the articles (10) located in the movement range with the advance movement running approximately parallel to longitudinal central axes (L) of the articles (10), wherein the cage (50) of the application head (1) contacts the grouped articles (10) at their outer sides and compresses them at least slightly, • and in that the cage (50) of the application head (1) is openable with simultaneous release and disengagement of the at least one strapping band (15) from its fixed position within the application head (1).

9. The application apparatus (40) according to claim 8, the cage (50) of which is equipped with fixing devices for the strapping band (15), in particular, wherein the fixing devices comprise clamping elements (3), suction elements (4), vacuum grippers or adhesion grippers.

10. The application apparatus (40) according to one of the claims 8 or 9, in which the cage (50) has a contoured guide (51) on its inner circumference, which contoured guide (51) is formed at the corner radii and / or in which the inner contour of the cage (50) is bevelled in the direction of lowering onto the article grouping (12).

11. The application apparatus (40) according to claim 10, in which the cage (50) comprises at least one undercut (21), in which the strapping band (15) is arranged after having been inserted into the cage (50) of the application head (1).

12. The application apparatus (40) according to one of the claims 8 to 11, in which an opening of the cage (50) can be carried out by opening movements of individual segments of the cage (50) with the opening movements directed vertically away from the outer surfaces of the articles (10).

13. A packaging apparatus for the production of packaging units (13), which packaging units (13) are each formed by at least two articles (10) grouped together and being held together by at least one strapping band (15) and at least one packaging blank (60), with the packaging apparatus comprising an application apparatus (40) according to one of the claims 8 to 12.

14. The packaging apparatus according to claim 13, furthermore comprising an apparatus (30) for the production of closed strapping bands (15), the apparatus (30) comprising • a magazine in which a supply of strip-shaped strapping material is provided, • a joining apparatus (33) for joining free ends of the strip-shaped strapping material, thereby forming a closed strapping band.