Cutting device and method for applying cut tracks in an outer packaging

Abstract

The invention relates to a cutting device (1) and a method for applying substantially encircling cut tracks (S) in an outer packaging (2) in order to cut off a collar (22) and / or a window cutout. Here, the cutting device (1) comprises a first cutting module (4a), which comprises two opposite cutting units (41) which can each be moved along a first cutting direction. Moreover, the cutting device (1) comprises a control unit (7) for determining a cutting height and for controlling the cutting units (41), a positioning device for positioning the outer packaging (2), and a conveying device (3).

Description

[0001] CUTTING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR APPLYING CUTTING LINES IN AN OUTER PACKAGING

[0002] The invention relates to an (automatically operated) cutting device for applying a substantially circumferential cutting path in an outer packaging filled with goods up to a filling level, in particular according to the preamble of claim 1 or 4, wherein the cutting device is designed to apply a first, second, third and fourth cutting path in the outer packaging so that they adjoin one another and form the circumferential cutting path in order to cut off a collar and / or window cutout.

[0003] Furthermore, the invention relates to a cutting system for an automated cutting device for applying cutting paths in side walls of an outer packaging.

[0004] Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for applying a circumferential cutting path in an outer packaging filled with goods up to a filling level, in particular in side walls and / or a lid of the outer packaging, by means of a cutting device for applying a substantially circumferential cutting path, in particular by means of a cutting device of the type mentioned at the outset.

[0005] In mail order, it is common for goods to be sent to a customer in outer packaging, such as cartons or cardboard boxes. For this purpose, ordered goods, which comprise one or more piece goods, are filled into outer packaging with a defined volume. Any unused volume above the fill level to which the goods in the outer packaging reach is filled with filling material. Therefore, oversized outer packaging leads to increased waste on the one hand. On the other hand, it takes up more space in a delivery vehicle or (intermediate) warehouse, which also increases the CO2 footprint. It is therefore desirable to create a device and a method with which the size of the outer packaging can be adjusted. Furthermore, it is common in storage and / or order picking systems for goods to be delivered in outer packaging that must first be opened.This should be done as automatically and gently as possible, i.e. without damaging the goods.

[0006] Various devices are known from the prior art with which the height of the outer packaging can be reduced and / or a lid of the outer packaging can be cut open.

[0007] For example, US Pat. No. 6,694,852 B1 discloses a cutting device with which an outer packaging can be opened at its top and the outer packaging's collar can be cut off. To open the outer packaging, several cutting lines are installed in the lid. The product is then removed from the opened outer packaging. A circumferential cutting line is applied to the emptied outer packaging by two opposing cutting units, each extending to the center of the outer packaging, so that the collar of the outer packaging is cut off. The cut-off collar can be removed, and the product can then be placed back in the outer packaging.

[0008] The disadvantage here is that cutting off the collar is particularly cumbersome, as the outer packaging must first be opened and the goods removed from the outer packaging before the collar can be cut off. Furthermore, this can only be done for outer packaging where the goods can be reliably removed with a single gripping action using the gripping device, for example, because the goods only comprise a single piece of goods.

[0009] The object of the invention is therefore to provide a cutting device, a cutting system, and a method of the type mentioned above, with which the collar of the outer packaging can be cut off efficiently and reliably. In particular, the collar should be able to be cut off without having to remove goods from the outer packaging.

[0010] The object is achieved by a device of the type mentioned above, wherein the cutting device further comprises a control unit for determining a cutting height, which is configured to control the cutting units such that the circumferential cutting path is applied at the cutting height. Furthermore, the cutting device comprises a positioning device configured to position the outer packaging in a first cutting position for, in particular, the simultaneous application of the first and second cutting paths and in a second cutting position for, in particular, the simultaneous application of the third and fourth cutting paths.

[0011] A particular advantage achieved by the invention is that, on the one hand, the height of the outer packaging filled with goods can be reduced, thus providing volume-optimized outer packaging for shipping, for example, which reduces waste generation at the customer's premises and, on the other hand, reduces transport costs. Due to the smaller space requirement of the volume-optimized outer packaging, many outer packaging units can be delivered simultaneously in one transport vehicle, reducing the number of transport movements and thus also improving the carbon footprint.

[0012] A further advantage achieved by the invention is in particular that a lid with which the outer packaging is closed can be opened.

[0013] This can be achieved, in particular, by cutting off the lid, by cutting off the collar. Alternatively, a window cutout can be added to the lid. This allows the carton to be opened automatically and, if necessary, subsequently emptied automatically, thus achieving a higher level of automation, for example, in a warehouse and picking system.

[0014] By means of the cutting device, cutting paths can be applied in particular in side walls or a lid of outer packaging which are of different dimensions and / or filled with different filling levels.

[0015] If the outer packaging has multiple side walls, it can preferably be provided that the cutting device is configured to apply the first cutting path in a first side wall of the side walls, the second cutting path in a second side wall of the side walls, the third cutting path in a third side wall of the side walls, and the fourth cutting path in a fourth side wall of the side walls in order to cut off the collar. The cutting units can be movable parallel to the first cutting direction, so that one of the cutting paths can be applied in each of the opposite side walls of the outer packaging.

[0016] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the cutting device is configured to apply the first, second, third, and fourth cutting tracks in the lid in order to cut or cut out the window cutout. This is particularly useful when the outer packaging has a lid.

[0017] It is advantageous if the cutting device comprises a conveying device for transporting the outer packaging in a conveying direction, wherein the conveying device is designed to move the outer packaging to the first cutting position and / or from the first cutting position to the second cutting position.

[0018] It is advantageous if the cutting device has a second cutting module which comprises two opposing cutting systems, each with a cutting unit, wherein the cutting units are movable parallel to a second cutting direction, so that a cutting path of the cutting paths can be applied, in particular simultaneously, in each case in opposite side walls of the outer packaging, wherein the first cutting position is arranged in the area, in particular in the effective area, of the first cutting module and the second cutting position is arranged in the area, in particular in the effective area of ​​the second cutting module. In this case, the area or effective area of ​​the first or second cutting module is preferably the area in which the respective cutting units, in particular the cutting elements, can act or cut. The second cutting module is preferably arranged downstream of the first cutting module in the conveying direction.Alternatively, the first and second cutting modules can be arranged at substantially the same location.

[0019] The cutting systems of the first cutting module and / or the second cutting module are preferably positioned opposite one another in such a way that the outer packaging can be positioned essentially between the cutting units of the opposing cutting systems. It is preferably provided that the cutting units of the opposing cutting systems, in particular of the first cutting module and / or the second cutting module, are each aligned such that their cutting elements are directed toward one another, preferably with their respective cutting edges. This allows the outer packaging to be positioned between the cutting elements, and the cutting elements can be placed against opposite side walls of the outer packaging.

[0020] The cutting device expediently comprises a first cutting position and a second cutting position. Thus, a first pair of cutting paths, namely the first and second cutting paths, can be arranged in the first cutting position and a second pair of cutting paths, namely the third and fourth cutting paths, can be arranged in the second cutting position. By placing the cutting paths in different cutting positions, a smaller penetration depth of the cutting elements is required. This makes it possible for the product to remain in the outer packaging while the collar and, if applicable, a lid and / or a window cutout in the lid of an outer packaging are cut off, thus reducing the height of the outer packaging and / or opening the outer packaging. This is particularly advantageous when the product comprises several articles lying loosely on top of one another which cannot be removed in a single gripping operation.Furthermore, it is not necessary to guide the cutting units around the outer packaging, which allows cutting of the collar and / or the window cutout to be carried out more quickly and reduces the technical complexity of the cutting device.

[0021] Particularly preferably, the cutting units each comprise a single cutting element.

[0022] The positioning device is configured to position the outer packaging in the first cutting position and / or in the second cutting position in order to apply the corresponding cutting paths. Positioning the outer packaging comprises, in particular, centering the outer packaging on the conveyor device and / or securing the outer packaging, preferably during the application of cutting paths.

[0023] A circumferential cutting path is considered to be a cutting path which is composed of the first, second, third and fourth cutting paths, so that it runs along a peripheral surface of the outer packaging formed by the side walls. "Substantially" in this context means that the cutting path can be interrupted in sections, for example at corners of the outer packaging. It is advantageous if the circumferential cutting path and accordingly the first, second, third and fourth cutting paths run horizontally. It is advantageous if the cutting device is designed such that the first and second cutting paths can be applied simultaneously and / or that the third and fourth cutting paths can be applied simultaneously. This is made possible, for example, by the opposing cutting units.

[0024] The outer packaging comprises the first side wall, the second side wall, the third side wall and the fourth side wall, wherein the first and second side walls lie opposite one another and run parallel to one another and the third and fourth side walls lie opposite one another and run parallel to one another. Typically, the outer packaging comprises a base from which the side walls protrude. Furthermore, the outer packaging can comprise a lid by means of which the outer packaging is closed, in particular at an upper side or at an upper edge of the side walls. The lid can be formed, for example, by folded sections of the side walls or can be placed onto the outer packaging as a separate part and optionally connected to it firmly or non-detachably, for example by adhesive.

[0025] The cutting device can be used to process outer packaging of different dimensions. The outer packaging can be individually dimensioned. Alternatively, outer packaging of the same size can be combined into a single outer packaging type. This allows for outer packaging of different outer packaging types, with each outer packaging type having a different dimension.

[0026] It is advantageous if the outer packaging is made of a cuttable material, such as cardboard or plastic. The outer packaging is usually designed as a cardboard box or carton.

[0027] The (cut-off) collar of the outer packaging is the area of ​​the side walls that is above the surrounding cut line. If the outer packaging is closed at the top, the lid can also be considered part of the collar. Furthermore, the (cut-off) window cutout of the outer packaging is the area in the lid of the outer packaging that is within the surrounding cut line and / or is enclosed by it. The window cutout is cut out or removed from the outer packaging by attaching the surrounding cut line, creating a window in the lid through which the interior of the outer packaging is accessible.

[0028] The fill level indicates the height to which the outer packaging is filled with goods. The fill level is preferably below the top edge of the outer packaging. This means that the fill level is generally less than the height of the outer packaging.

[0029] The cutting height specifies the height at which the circumferential cutting strip is to be applied. The cutting height can be specified relative to the base of the outer packaging, for example. For example, the cutting height can be determined for an outer packaging that is not yet closed or opened, for example by determining the fill level and setting the cutting height above this. The cutting height is preferably between the fill level and the top edge of the outer packaging if the circumferential cutting strip is to be applied in the side walls, or at the top edge, in particular at the height of the lid, if the circumferential cutting strip is to be applied in the lid. Alternatively, the cutting height can also be determined when the outer packaging is closed by determining the height of the lid and / or the top edge of the outer packaging. In this case, the cutting height can, for example, correspond to the height of the outer packaging.

[0030] In order to provide a particularly volume-optimized outer packaging, it is preferably provided that the cutting height is determined by the control unit such that the cutting line is positioned (as close as possible) above the fill level. However, when opening the outer packaging, it can be provided that the cutting height is determined by the control unit such that the cutting line is positioned (as close as possible) below the lid or the top edge of the outer packaging.

[0031] The conveyor device enables (automated) transport of the outer packaging to the first cutting module and, if necessary, away from the second cutting module. It is advantageous if the conveyor device comprises a stationary conveyor system and / or a mobile conveyor system. The stationary conveyor system can, in particular, comprise a roller conveyor and / or a (two-track) belt conveyor. Furthermore, the mobile conveyor system can, in particular, comprise autonomously movable conveyor vehicles. Such conveyor vehicles can be controlled by a higher-level master computer. Such conveyor vehicles are known to those skilled in the art under the terms "Automated Guided Vehicle" (AGV) or "Autonomous Mobile Robot" (AMR).

[0032] The conveying device preferably forms a transport surface on which the outer packaging can rest and be transported. This transport surface can be provided, for example, by rollers of a roller conveyor, by one or more conveyor belts of a (two-track) belt conveyor, by a receiving platform of a conveyor vehicle, or the like.

[0033] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the conveying device has an inlet conveyor section leading to the first cutting module, a cutting module conveyor section adjoining the inlet conveyor section, and an outlet conveyor section adjoining the cutting module conveyor section and leading away from the first or second cutting module. It is advantageous if the first and / or second cutting module are arranged in the region of the cutting module conveyor section.

[0034] Preferably, the conveying device in the inlet conveying section and in the outlet conveying section comprises a roller conveyor or a mobile conveying system.

[0035] To ensure the most precise positioning of the outer packaging in the respective cutting positions and reliable transport, the conveyor device in the cutting module conveyor section can comprise a stationary conveyor system, in particular a (two-track) belt conveyor. Furthermore, positively acting carriers can be arranged on the conveyor belts of the belt conveyor, which can be adjusted against a side wall of the outer packaging.

[0036] The infeed conveyor section can, for example, connect to a conveyor system of a storage and / or order-picking system. The conveyor system is configured, for example, to transport the outer packaging filled with goods, for example, from a picking station, to the cutting device. The conveyor device is preferably designed to receive the outer packaging from the conveyor system.

[0037] Furthermore, the conveyor system of the storage and / or order-picking system can be connected to the outfeed conveyor section and configured to transport the outer packaging away from the cutting device, for example, to a closing station where the outer packaging is sealed, or to a decanting station where the outer packaging is emptied. Preferably, the conveyor device is configured to transfer the outer packaging to the conveyor system.

[0038] Furthermore, it is advantageous if outer packaging data is assigned to each outer packaging or packagings. Outer packaging data refers to data relating to, and in particular describing, the outer packaging. The outer packaging data can include data selected from a group comprising an outer packaging identity, an outer packaging dimension, the fill height, a wall thickness of the side walls, a wall thickness of the lid, and / or a closed state.

[0039] The wall thickness of the side walls can correspond to a distance between an outer side of the side wall and an inner side of the side wall. The wall thickness thus often corresponds to a single material thickness, especially cardboard thickness, and / or a double material thickness, for example, if two material layers, especially cardboard layers, overlap at least partially. The same applies to the wall thickness of the lid.

[0040] It is advantageous if the outer packaging identity clearly identifies an outer packaging or indicates the outer packaging type of the respective outer packaging.

[0041] The outer packaging dimension specifies in particular the length, width and / or height of the respective outer packaging or outer packaging type.

[0042] Furthermore, the closure state can indicate whether the outer packaging is open or closed at the top, for example, by a lid. It is advantageous if the cutting device includes an electronic memory. The electronic memory can store outer packaging data associated with the outer packaging or outer packaging types. The outer packaging data stored in the electronic memory can thus be referred to as stored outer packaging data.

[0043] The control unit can further be configured to determine the cutting height on the basis of the outer packaging data, in particular on the basis of the filling height.

[0044] Optionally, it can be provided that the control unit is connected to the electronic memory, in particular via data technology, in order to read out (stored) outer packaging data from the electronic memory.

[0045] It is advantageous if the first and / or second cutting direction runs horizontally. Furthermore, it is advantageous if the first cutting direction runs parallel to the conveying direction or forms an angle of 90° with the conveying direction in a horizontal plane. Preferably, the second cutting direction forms an angle between 0 and 90° with the first cutting direction in a horizontal plane. Alternatively, the second cutting direction can run parallel to the first cutting direction or be identical to it.

[0046] The first cutting module and / or the second cutting module can be oriented in a longitudinal orientation, in which the first or second cutting direction runs parallel to the conveying direction, or in a transverse orientation, in which the first or second cutting direction runs transversely to the conveying direction. In this context, "transversely to the conveying direction" means that the cutting direction forms an angle of 90° with the conveying direction in a horizontal plane.

[0047] In a cutting device with a first and a second cutting module, it can be provided that both the first cutting module and the second cutting module are arranged in a longitudinal orientation.

[0048] It is particularly preferably provided that the first cutting direction and the second cutting direction enclose an angle of 90°, in particular in a horizontal plane. This makes it possible, for example, for the circumferential cutting path to be applied without the outer packaging having to be rotated. This can be achieved by arranging the first cutting module and the second cutting module rotated by an angle of 90° to one another, in particular in a horizontal plane. Preferably, the first cutting module is oriented in a longitudinal direction and the second cutting module in a transverse direction, or the first cutting module is oriented in a transverse direction and the second cutting module in a longitudinal direction. Alternatively, the first cutting module can be rotatable by 90°, for example if no second cutting module is provided.

[0049] It is advantageous if the cutting units are configured to apply the respective cutting path with a penetration depth, whereby the penetration depth corresponds at least to the wall thickness of the respective side wall and a maximum of 400%, in particular 200%, of the wall thickness. The penetration depth is defined as the depth or distance to which the cutting element penetrates the outer packaging. On the one hand, a penetration depth that corresponds at least to the wall thickness ensures that the collar and / or window cutout is reliably cut off. On the other hand, the smallest possible penetration depth minimizes the risk of damaging the goods in the outer packaging.

[0050] To flexibly adapt the cutting device to different widths or lengths of the outer packaging, it can be provided that a receiving width between cutting units of two opposing cutting systems is variable. The receiving width defines a horizontal distance between a first vertical plane, which runs through a cutting unit of a first cutting system of the opposing cutting systems and parallel to the respective cutting direction, and a second vertical plane, which runs through a cutting unit of a second cutting system of the opposing cutting systems and parallel to the respective cutting direction.

[0051] A change in the receiving width can be achieved in particular by designing opposing cutting units so that they can be moved horizontally toward one another and apart in order to change the receiving width between the cutting units, in particular to reduce or increase it. For this purpose, the cutting units are preferably continuously movable toward one another or apart. This allows the cutting device to be adapted particularly flexibly to different carton widths or carton lengths. Alternatively, the cutting elements can be adjustable in defined increments or in stages in order to set defined receiving widths. This allows the cutting device to be adapted particularly quickly to different predefined carton widths or carton lengths.

[0052] Furthermore, changing or adjusting the distance between the cutting elements allows for regulation of the penetration depth. The control unit can be configured to control the cutting units or the respective movement devices in such a way that the cutting elements are positioned to achieve the desired penetration depth. Continuously adjustable cutting elements allow for particularly variable penetration depth adjustment.

[0053] It is advantageous if the cutting systems each have a movement device on which the respective cutting unit is mounted, wherein the control unit is designed to control the movement devices. This allows the cutting units to be moved automatically, and the movement of the cutting units can be controlled by the control unit. For this purpose, the first cutting module and / or the second cutting module can each comprise several, in particular two, movement devices, wherein each movement device is assigned to a respective cutting unit.

[0054] Preferably, the movement devices are designed to move the respective cutting units in a horizontal plane, in particular parallel to one another. It is advantageous if the movement devices of the first cutting module are designed to move the respective cutting units parallel to the first cutting direction. Furthermore, it is advantageous if the movement devices of the second cutting module are designed to move the respective cutting units parallel to the second cutting direction.

[0055] It is advantageous if the movement devices each comprise a preferably horizontally oriented first linear guide unit, which is oriented parallel to the first cutting direction, along which the respective cutting unit or its respective cutting head is displaceably mounted. If the respective cutting module is arranged in a longitudinal orientation, the first linear guide unit also preferably runs parallel to the conveying direction. If the respective cutting module is arranged in a transverse orientation, however, the first linear guide unit can run transversely to the conveying direction.

[0056] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the control unit is designed to control the movement devices in such a way that a receiving width between cutting units of two opposing cutting systems is changed.

[0057] Preferably, the movement devices can be designed to move the respective cutting units in the horizontal plane, in particular toward each other. As a result, as described above, the receiving width can be varied and outer packaging of different widths can be processed with the cutting device. For this purpose, it is advantageous if the movement devices of the first cutting module are designed to move the respective cutting units transversely to the first cutting direction. Furthermore, it is advantageous if the movement devices of the second cutting module are designed to move the respective cutting units transversely to the second cutting direction.

[0058] A receiving width required for the respective outer packaging can be included, in particular, in the outer packaging data. The receiving width is preferably at least equal to, and in particular greater than, the width of the outer packaging.

[0059] It is advantageous if the movement devices each comprise a preferably horizontally aligned second linear guide unit, which is oriented transversely to the first cutting direction and along which the respective cutting unit or its respective cutting head is displaceably mounted. If the respective cutting module is arranged in a longitudinal orientation, the second linear guide unit preferably runs transversely to the conveying direction. If the respective cutting module is arranged in a transverse orientation, however, the second linear guide unit can run parallel to the conveying direction. It is advantageously provided that the movement devices are designed to move the respective cutting unit or its respective cutting head along a vertical axis. This essentially makes it possible to adjust the horizontal plane in which the cutting units are movable and thus also to adapt the cutting height.

[0060] It is advantageous if the movement devices each comprise a further, preferably vertically aligned, linear guide unit on which the respective cutting unit or its respective cutting head is mounted so as to be vertically displaceable.

[0061] It is advantageous if at least some of the movement devices are designed as gantry robots. Furthermore, it can be provided that at least some of the movement devices are designed as articulated-arm robots.

[0062] For example, the movement devices of the first and / or second cutting module can each be designed as a gantry robot having two, in particular three, axes of movement. The axes of movement can be provided by the first, second, and / or further linear guide unit, as described above. Alternatively, the movement devices of the first and / or second cutting module can each be designed as articulated-arm robots to move the cutting units, in particular the cutting element, along the axes of movement. In this case, the axes of movement can run or be aligned as described above for the linear guide units.

[0063] According to preferred embodiments, it is provided that the movement devices of the first and second cutting module are designed as gantry robots, of the first cutting module as gantry robots and of the second cutting module as articulated-arm robots, of the first cutting module as articulated-arm robots and of the second cutting module as gantry robots or of the first and second cutting module as articulated-arm robots.

[0064] It can further be provided that the second cutting position is rotated by an angle of 90° about a vertical axis to the first cutting position and the conveying device comprises a rotating device in order to rotate the outer packaging about the vertical axis from the first cutting position into the second cutting position. In this way, an orientation of the outer packaging can be changed so that the cutting paths can be applied parallel to the same cutting direction, in particular parallel to the first cutting direction. On the one hand, this enables all four cutting paths to be applied by the first cutting module, whereby the cutting device can be designed to be particularly compact and therefore space-saving. In this case, the rotating device is preferably arranged in the area, in particular in the effective area, of the first cutting module.

[0065] Furthermore, the first cutting direction and the second cutting direction can be aligned parallel to each other, in particular pointing in the same direction. This results in the first cutting module and the second cutting module being oriented identically, resulting in a particularly simple design of the cutting device. The rotating device can be arranged in the area (effective area) of the first cutting module, in the area (effective area) of the second cutting module, and / or between the first cutting module and the second cutting module.

[0066] If a first and second cutting module are present, it is advantageous if the conveyor device is configured to transport the outer packaging from the first cutting module to the second cutting module in order to move the outer packaging from the first cutting position to the second cutting position. Thus, the outer packaging can be transported automatically from the first cutting module to the second cutting module. Optionally, the previously described rotating device can be arranged between the first cutting module and the second cutting module in order to change the orientation of the outer packaging during a movement or transport from the first to the second cutting module.

[0067] If two cutting modules are provided, a synchronized operation can be realized, wherein the first and second cutting paths are applied to the side walls of a subsequent outer packaging while a preceding outer packaging is moved to the second cutting module or while the third and fourth cutting paths are applied to the side walls of the preceding outer packaging. This allows particularly efficient operation of the cutting device to be achieved. In order to ensure smooth operation, it is preferably provided that the conveyor device between the first and second cutting modules comprises a buffer device with at least one buffer space on which an outer packaging can be temporarily stored. For example, the subsequent outer packaging can be temporarily stored until the second cutting module is free of the preceding outer packaging.In order to temporarily store several outer packagings, the buffer device can be provided with several buffer spaces.

[0068] It is advantageous if the cutting device has a recording unit for recording outer packaging data, wherein the outer packaging data includes an outer packaging identity, an outer packaging dimension, and / or the fill level, particularly in an outer packaging open at the top. One advantage here is that the device can be flexibly adjusted to different outer packaging types without the outer packaging having to be provided to the cutting device in a specific sequence or order.

[0069] The outer packaging data can be acquired either by the acquisition unit reading the (stored) outer packaging data from the electronic memory and / or by the acquisition unit determining or measuring the outer packaging data. The outer packaging data acquired by the acquisition unit can thus be referred to as determined outer packaging data. The acquisition unit can be equipped with a sensor system for this purpose.

[0070] It is advantageous if the recording unit is connected, in particular in terms of data technology, to the electronic memory in order to store the determined outer packaging data in the electronic memory and / or to read out stored outer packaging data from the electronic memory.

[0071] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the recording unit is connected to the control unit for data purposes in order to transmit the outer packaging data to the control unit. It is advantageous if the control unit is configured to determine the cutting height based on the outer packaging data. Particularly preferably, the recording unit is configured to determine the outer packaging identity of the respective outer packaging and to identify the outer packaging or the outer packaging type. If necessary, stored outer packaging data associated with the respective outer packaging identity can be read from the electronic memory by the recording unit or by the control unit.

[0072] To enable the outer packaging identity to be determined, the sensor system of the detection unit can be provided with a reader for detecting an identification mark arranged on the outer packaging. The reader can be designed as a reader for a one-dimensional code, in particular as a barcode scanner, as a reader for a two-dimensional code, in particular as a QR code scanner, and / or as a reader for an electromagnetic identification mark, in particular as an RFID scanner. Accordingly, the identification mark can comprise a one-dimensional code, in particular a barcode, a two-dimensional code, in particular a QR code, and / or an electromagnetic identification mark, in particular an RFID tag.

[0073] In addition, the outer packaging dimension specifies the width, length, and / or height of the outer packaging. The outer packaging dimension can be in the form of determined outer packaging data or stored outer packaging data.

[0074] To enable the outer packaging dimensions to be determined, the sensor system of the detection unit can be configured to detect a width, length, and / or height. For this purpose, the sensor system can, for example, comprise one or more light barriers and / or a light curtain.

[0075] Furthermore, it can be provided that the sensor system of the detection unit is designed to determine the fill level in the outer packaging, in particular in an outer packaging that is open at the top.

[0076] It is advantageous if the sensor system has a camera system with which an image of the outer packaging, particularly a top view, can be captured. For this purpose, the camera system is preferably arranged above the conveyor device. Furthermore, it is advantageous if the detection unit has a computer system configured to determine the fill level and / or the length, width, and / or height of the outer packaging, for example, using an image recognition algorithm.

[0077] According to (some of) the aspects described above, the outer packaging or outer packaging type can be identified based on the determined outer packaging identity and, if applicable, its fill level can be determined. The associated (remaining) stored outer packaging data can be read from the electronic memory by the recording unit or the control unit.

[0078] In order to hold the outer packaging in the respective cutting position during the application of the (first and second) cutting paths, it can be provided that the positioning device comprises a press-down device that is vertically movable, in particular by a press-down device drive device, which can be placed from above on the outer packaging, in particular on an upper edge of opposite side walls, in order to fix the latter between the press-down device and a transport surface of the conveyor device. This allows the outer packaging to be held in position during the application of the (first and second) cutting paths. The press-down device preferably comprises a horizontally oriented plate-shaped or rod-shaped press-down device adjustment element, which can be placed, for example, on opposite side walls of the outer packaging.

[0079] It is advantageous if the press-down device is arranged in the area (effective area) of the first cutting module in order to fix the outer packaging during the application of the first and second cutting tracks and, if applicable, during the application of the third and fourth cutting tracks.

[0080] Optionally, the positioning device comprises a (identical) vertically movable further press-down device, which is arranged in the area (effective area) of the second cutting module in order to fix the outer packaging during the application of the third and fourth cutting paths.

[0081] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the positioning device has at least one positioning unit comprising two opposing positioning means. The positioning means form mutually facing positioning surfaces, and the positioning surfaces are movable horizontally toward one another and can be positioned against opposite side walls of the outer packaging in order to fix the outer packaging between the positioning surfaces. This allows the outer packaging to be fixed and, on the other hand, centered on the conveyor device. It is advantageous in this case if the positioning means can be moved horizontally toward one another by a positioning drive device.

[0082] According to a first embodiment of the positioning unit, the positioning means can be movable relative to each other transversely to the conveying direction in order to fix the outer packaging between the positioning surfaces by clamping.

[0083] According to a second embodiment of the positioning unit, the positioning means can be movable relative to one another parallel to the conveying direction in order to fix the outer packaging between the positioning surfaces by clamping. In this case, a first positioning means of the opposing positioning means can be provided by a vertically adjustable stop element, for example a stop plate. The stop element can be movable, for example via a drive device, between an initial position, in particular located below the transport surface of the conveying device, and a positioning position, in particular located above the transport surface of the conveying device. Preferably, the stop element comprises a stop surface, wherein the outer packaging, in particular with a front side wall of the side walls in the conveying direction, can be positioned against the first stop surface when the stop element is in the positioning position.A second positioning element of the opposing positioning means can be provided by a positively acting driver, which can be positioned against a side wall of the outer packaging, in particular against a rear side wall of the side walls in the conveying direction. The driver can be arranged on conveyor belts of a belt conveyor, as described above.

[0084] It is advantageous if a (first) positioning unit according to the previously described first embodiment and / or according to the second embodiment is arranged in the region of the first cutting module in order to fix the outer packaging during the application of the first and second cutting paths and, if appropriate, during the application of the third and fourth cutting paths. Furthermore, it is advantageous if a (second) positioning unit according to the previously described first embodiment and / or according to the second embodiment is arranged in the region of the second cutting module in order to fix the outer packaging during the application of the third and fourth cutting paths. Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that a (further) positioning unit according to the previously described first embodiment and / or according to the second embodiment is arranged in the region of the detection unit in order to fix the outer packaging during the detection of the outer packaging data.

[0085] To provide improved fixation, it is preferably provided that at least one adjusting means is arranged on each of the adjusting surfaces, which is designed to establish a positive and / or frictional connection between the respective positioning means and the respective side wall. The adjusting means can, for example, comprise a coating for increasing the coefficient of friction, for example a rubber coating. Alternatively or additionally, the adjusting means can comprise one or more piercing elements for establishing the positive connection, for example projections, needles, or the like.

[0086] Furthermore, it can be advantageous if the positioning device comprises at least one vertically adjustable stop element, for example a stop plate. The stop element can be moved via a drive device between an initial position, in particular located below the transport surface of the conveyor device, and a positioning position, in particular located above the transport surface of the conveyor device. Preferably, the stop element comprises a stop surface, wherein the outer packaging, in particular with a front side wall of the side walls in the conveying direction, can be positioned against the first stop surface when the stop element is in the positioning position. A (first) stop element is preferably arranged in the region of the detection unit. As a result, a movement of the outer packaging can be stopped precisely in a detection range of the detection unit, in particular of the camera system.It is advantageous if a (first or second) stop element is arranged in the region of the first cutting module. This allows the movement of the outer packaging to be stopped precisely in the region of the first cutting module, in particular in the first cutting position. Furthermore, it is advantageous if a (first or further) stop element is arranged in the region of the second cutting module. This allows the movement of the outer packaging to be stopped precisely in the region of the second cutting module, in particular in the second cutting position.

[0087] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the cutting device comprises a lifting device which has a vertically movable gripping unit, in particular by means of a gripping unit drive device, for lifting the collar and / or the window cutout of the outer packaging. This allows the cut-off collar and / or window cutout to be lifted off and removed automatically. Furthermore, individual areas along the circumferential cutting path can be severed by tearing if they were not completely severed when the cutting path was applied. Tearing is essentially regarded as the vertical movement of the gripping unit together with the collar and / or window cutout upwards, wherein the (remaining) outer packaging is held back, for example by the positioning device.

[0088] In addition, the gripping unit is preferably designed to be adjustable on opposite side walls on the collar and / or on a peripheral edge of the window cutout in order to clamp and lift the collar and / or the window cutout.

[0089] The lifting device or its gripping unit can also be used to position the outer packaging in the second cutting position by securing the outer packaging during the application of the respective cutting paths. In this case, the lifting device can be considered part of the positioning device.

[0090] It is advantageous if the lifting device is arranged in the region of the second cutting position. This means that the lifting device is arranged in the region of the first cutting module, for example, in addition to or instead of the press-down device, if only one cutting module is provided, or in the region of the second cutting module if a first and second cutting module are provided.

[0091] It is particularly advantageous if the gripping unit comprises a plurality of gripping elements, in particular those that are spaced apart from one another or can be positioned at a distance from one another. A particular advantage here is that a holding force required for lifting the collar and / or the window cutout can be distributed across the collar, a peripheral surface of the collar and / or the window cutout, and / or a lid of the outer packaging. This enables reliable lifting of the collar and / or the window cutout, regardless of the stability or wall thickness of the outer packaging.

[0092] Furthermore, it is advantageous if at least some of the gripping elements, preferably all of the gripping elements, are mounted so as to be movable in a horizontal plane, preferably transverse to the conveying direction. This allows, on the one hand, the cut-off collar and / or window cutout to be lifted off and, on the other hand, the lifted collar and / or window cutout to be delivered next to the conveying device. This allows for easy disposal of the cut-off collar and / or window cutout.

[0093] In order to grip the side walls by means of the gripping elements, it can be provided that at least some of the gripping elements, in particular all of the gripping elements, are designed as clamping grippers. In this case, it can be provided that the first, second, third and / or fourth side wall is each clamped by at least one clamping gripper. It is advantageous if opposite side walls, in particular those opposite side walls which are aligned parallel to the conveying direction and / or those opposite side walls which are aligned transversely to the conveying direction, are each fixed or clamped by at least one, in particular by several, clamping grippers.

[0094] Furthermore, it can be provided that the clamping grippers have two clamping surfaces that can be moved towards one another, wherein clamping projections and clamping recesses are arranged on the clamping surfaces, which engage with one another when the clamping surfaces are moved towards one another, in particular when they rest on one another. This improves the connection between the clamping gripper and the respective side wall. For this purpose, the clamping projections can penetrate into the side wall of the outer packaging and, depending on the wall thickness of the side wall, penetrate through it, whereby in addition to the clamping force, a positive connection is created between the clamping gripper and the collar and / or window cutout. This allows for particularly reliable lifting. This is particularly advantageous if individual areas along the circumferential cutting path were not completely severed when the cutting path was applied.The improved connection ensures reliable separation of these areas by tearing, as previously described.

[0095] In addition to or as an alternative to the clamping projections or clamping recesses, it can be provided that the clamping surfaces are each provided with a coating to increase the coefficient of friction, for example with a coating made of rubber.

[0096] Furthermore, it can be provided that at least some of the gripping elements are designed as needle grippers and / or suction grippers. The needle grippers and / or suction grippers can be adjustable against the side walls and / or the lid to establish a connection between the gripping elements and the respective side wall and / or the lid. This is particularly advantageous when the outer packaging is closed with a lid.

[0097] In order to dispose of the cut-off collar and / or window cutout in a simple manner, it can be provided that the cutting device comprises a disposal device which is arranged in the effective range of the lifting device, wherein the lifting device is designed to transfer the cut-off collar and / or window cutout to the disposal device. It is advantageous if the disposal device is positioned next to the conveyor device and, if horizontally movable gripping elements are provided, is positioned such that the horizontally movable gripping elements can be positioned above the disposal device. In this way, the cut-off collar and / or window cutout can be transferred to the disposal device by dropping it.

[0098] In the simplest case, the disposal device can be provided by a garbage container or a garbage chute into which the cut-off collar and / or window cutout is deposited. Alternatively or additionally, the disposal device can comprise a disposal conveyor. The cut-off collar and / or window cutout can be deposited on the disposal conveyor and transported away by it. Optionally, several garbage containers can be provided, which are arranged for transport on the disposal conveyor. When a garbage container is full, it can be automatically transported away by the disposal conveyor. The disposal conveyor preferably comprises a belt and / or roller conveyor.

[0099] To ensure reliable operation, the cutting device can be provided with a monitoring device that has a monitoring sensor system for detecting the outer packaging in the first and / or second cutting position and is configured to issue a fault message if the outer packaging is moved from the respective cutting position during the application of a cutting path and / or during the removal of a cut-off collar and / or window cutout. This allows for immediate and rapid response when a fault occurs, preventing long downtimes of the cutting device.

[0100] The monitoring sensor system preferably comprises a plurality of light barriers arranged in the inlet conveyor section, the cutting module conveyor section, and / or the outlet conveyor section. Light barriers are particularly preferably arranged in the area of ​​the first cutting module and / or the second cutting module to detect the presence of the outer packaging during the application of the cutting tracks.

[0101] Alternatively or additionally, the monitoring sensor in the area of ​​the first cutting module and / or the second cutting module (each) can comprise an ultrasonic sensor, which is arranged below the transport surface of the conveyor device and directed upwards or toward the transport surface in order to detect the presence of the outer packaging. It is advantageous if the monitoring sensor system is constructed analogously to the previously described sensor system of the detection unit. Particularly preferably, the monitoring device can be considered part of the detection unit.

[0102] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the monitoring device has an additional monitoring sensor system designed to detect the collar and / or window cutout as the collar and / or window cutout moves away from the outer packaging. This makes it possible to monitor whether the collar and / or window cutout has been reliably lifted. The additional monitoring sensor system can be designed analogously to the previously described monitoring sensor system. For example, the monitoring sensor system comprises a light barrier whose light beam intersects a movement trajectory of the collar and / or window cutout.

[0103] When applying a cutting path to a side wall, the movement of the cutting element along the side wall creates a torque that acts on the outer packaging. It is therefore advantageous if the control unit is configured to control the cutting units in such a way that two opposing cutting units are each moved synchronously. Due to the synchronous movement of the opposing cutting units, the cutting paths are applied to opposite side walls simultaneously, thus balancing out the resulting torques of the two cutting paths. This stabilizes the outer packaging while the cutting paths are being applied.

[0104] In this case, it is particularly provided that the opposing cutting units for applying the first and second cutting paths, in particular the cutting units of the first cutting module, are moved synchronously. Likewise, it is preferably provided that the opposing cutting units for applying the third and fourth cutting paths, in particular the cutting units of the first or second cutting module, are moved synchronously.

[0105] A synchronous movement includes, in particular, a simultaneous, uniform, and / or synchronized movement of the cutting units. It is not absolutely necessary that any oscillation of the cutting elements also occur synchronously, although this can be optionally provided.

[0106] It is advantageous if the cutting systems of the cutting device are designed as described below.

[0107] The object is further achieved by a cutting system for an automated cutting device for applying cutting paths in an outer packaging, in particular in side walls and / or a lid of an outer packaging, in particular for a cutting device as described above, comprising a movement device and a cutting unit mounted thereon, wherein the cutting unit has a cutting head and a cutting element mounted on the cutting head. This allows the cutting units to be moved automatically.

[0108] It is advantageous if the cutting element is designed to be vertically adjustable. This allows for adjustment of the cutting height. Vertical adjustability of the cutting elements can be achieved in particular by mounting the cutting elements on the cutting head so that they can be moved vertically and / or by moving the cutting head vertically. The cutting head can be moved vertically, for example, by the movement device.

[0109] It is advantageous if the cutting head is mounted on the cutting unit so that it can pivot about a horizontal axis. This allows the cutting elements to be oriented either horizontally for creating cutting paths in the side walls or vertically for creating cutting paths in the lid. For this purpose, the cutting head can be moved into a first cutting position, in which the cutting element is oriented horizontally, and into a second cutting position, in which the cutting element is oriented vertically.

[0110] The cutting element of the cutting unit expediently comprises a cutting edge. Preferably, the cutting edge of the cutting element comprises a first cutting section and a second cutting section, wherein the first cutting section is effective when the cutting element moves in the cutting direction, in particular in the first or second cutting direction, and the second cutting section is effective when the cutting element moves counter to the cutting direction, in particular counter to the first or second cutting direction. This enables cutting both in the respective cutting direction and counter to the respective cutting direction. Alternatively, the cutting element can also be designed as a laser cutter.

[0111] The first cutting section and the second cutting section are preferably arranged in a horizontal cutting plane. It is also advantageous if the first cutting section and the second cutting section converge at an angle to one another in the horizontal plane to form a tip of the cutting element. For this purpose, it is provided in particular that the first cutting section and the second cutting section enclose an angle between 0° and 180°, particularly preferably between 0° and 90°. It can also be provided that the first cutting section and the second cutting section run parallel to one another. Particularly preferably, the first cutting section and the second cutting section are each formed with a double-sided grind, in particular with a double-sided flat grind.

[0112] It is advantageous if the cutting head comprises a connection arrangement, a base body arranged on the connection arrangement, and a cutting element holder mounted on the base body, on which the cutting element is mounted. This allows the cutting element to be easily attached to the cutting head. Particularly preferably, the cutting element is mounted interchangeably on the cutting element holder. Optionally, the base body can be formed integrally with the connection arrangement.

[0113] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the cutting unit comprises a cutting head holder, with the connection arrangement being arranged on the cutting head holder. The connection arrangement can be connected to the cutting head holder or formed integrally with it. Particularly preferably, the cutting head holder is arranged on the movement device.

[0114] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the connection arrangement is mounted on the cutting head holder so that it can be moved horizontally, so that the cutting element can be guided along a cutting path curved in a horizontal plane. This allows the cutting path to be adapted to a curved surface of the side wall, for example, because the side wall is curved. For this purpose, a curvature can be detected by the detection unit and a curved cutting path can be calculated. The cutting element can then be actively guided along the curved cutting path. This can also be achieved, if necessary, by targeted control of the movement device if the connection arrangement or the cutting head cannot be moved relative to the cutting head holder.

[0115] In order to passively guide the cutting element along the curved cutting path, it can be provided that the cutting head can be displaced from a first position to a second position by overcoming the spring force of the return spring, whereby the return spring is tensioned, and can be automatically displaced from the second position to the first position when the return spring is released. Thus, a position can be easily adapted to a curved side wall, especially when the previously described support member rests against the side wall.

[0116] It is advantageous if the cutting head comprises a support element that can be positioned against a side wall of the outer packaging, with a normal distance between a vertical tangential plane of a vertex of the cutting element and a contact surface of the support element being constant. This allows the cutting head to be additionally stabilized during the application of the cutting path, and the cutting path can be applied particularly precisely and reliably. The support element is preferably located on the cutting element holder. The vertex of the cutting element can be provided, in particular, by a vertex of a curved or arcuate cutting element or by a tip of the cutting element.

[0117] Furthermore, the penetration depth can be limited by the support element. The maximum penetration depth preferably results from a distance between an exposed end of the cutting element and the support element, in particular a contact surface of the support element with which the support element is positioned against the side wall of the outer packaging. In this context, the exposed end of the cutting element is the end that penetrates the respective side wall of the outer packaging or the outer packaging when the cutting path is applied.

[0118] Furthermore, any bulging or curvature of the outer packaging can be corrected, for example, pushed back, by the support element to ensure the flattest possible side wall for applying the cutting line. This can improve the quality of the cutting line. This also enables the application of cutting lines in the side walls of outer packaging, especially cardboard boxes, with thin walls, thus enabling additional cost and / or material savings.

[0119] It is advantageous if the support member comprises a first support element and a second support element. Advantageously, the first support element is positioned upstream of the cutting element in the respective cutting direction, and the second support element is positioned downstream of the cutting element in the respective cutting direction. Particularly preferably, the first and second support elements are each designed as support rollers, which, in particular with a circumferential surface, can rest on the side wall in a rolling manner. For this purpose, it is preferably provided that the support roller is mounted so as to be rotatable about a vertical axis.

[0120] Vibrations may be generated when applying the cutting paths, which can lead to increased noise. An ergonomic advantage is therefore achieved if the cutting element holder is mounted on the base body of the cutting head via elastic buffers. This can reduce the transmission of vibrations between the cutting element holder and the base body of the cutting head, thus reducing noise.

[0121] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the base body is mounted on the connection arrangement via elastic buffers, for example, as previously described for the cutting element holder, to reduce the transmission of vibrations between the cutting head and the cutting head holder, and in particular the movement device. This can be provided, for example, if the cutting element holder is not mounted on the base body via elastic buffers. However, this is particularly preferably provided in addition to the elastic buffers of the cutting element holder, whereby the transmission of vibrations is reduced essentially in several stages, i.e., by the elastic buffers of the cutting element holder and subsequently by the elastic buffers of the cutting head holder.

[0122] Advantageously, the cutting element can be movably mounted on the cutting element holder and driven by a cutting element drive device to perform an oscillating movement relative to the cutting head parallel to the (first and / or second) cutting direction. This oscillating movement achieves, on the one hand, a particularly precise cutting path and, on the other hand, reduced wear on the cutting edge. It is particularly advantageous if the cutting edge, as described above, has a first and second cutting section in order to be effective during both a forward and reverse oscillation movement.

[0123] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the cutting element is movably mounted on the cutting element holder and driven by a cutting element drive device to perform an oscillating movement relative to the cutting head orthogonal to the cutting direction, particularly vertically. This allows the cutting element to be moved orthogonally to the surface to be cut. The respective cutting path can thus be applied in a jigsaw-like manner. In this case, the cutting element penetrates the lid of the outer packaging with a leading penetrating end during a downward movement.

[0124] In order to protect the goods inside the outer packaging from damage, it is preferably provided that the cutting element has a rounded, in particular spherical, penetrating end.

[0125] An oscillating movement is understood, for example, as a back-and-forth movement of the cutting element, particularly a linear one, along or orthogonal to the respective cutting direction. The oscillating movement thus comprises (only) a longitudinal component, i.e., a movement along the respective cutting direction. If appropriate, the oscillating movement can have a longitudinal component and a transverse component, i.e., a movement perpendicular to the respective cutting direction, so that the oscillating movement essentially follows an elliptical or circular path.

[0126] It is particularly preferred that the cutting element holder is mounted on the base body of the cutting head via elastic buffers as described above in order to dampen vibrations which occur as a result of the oscillating movement.

[0127] It is advantageous if the drive mechanism of the cutting element is also mounted on the cutting element mount. This allows the drive mechanism to be located in the immediate vicinity of the cutting element. If the cutting element mount is mounted on the base body of the cutting head via elastic buffers, as described above, this provides the additional advantage of dampening vibrations caused by the drive mechanism.

[0128] In order to ensure increased operational safety, it can be provided that the cutting head comprises a protective screen which can be moved by an adjusting device between a, in particular advanced, protective position in which a cutting edge of the cutting element is covered by the protective screen, and an, in particular retracted, operating position in which the cutting edge is, in particular at least partially, exposed. As a result, the cutting element can be covered when the cutting device is not in operation or when no cutting path needs to be applied. In this way, injuries to operators can be prevented, for example during maintenance of the cutting device. In order to avoid unintentional exposure of the cutting edge, it is advantageous if the cutting head comprises a locking device by means of which the protective screen can be locked in the protective position.

[0129] It is particularly advantageous if the protective shield is automatically adjusted from the operating position to the protective position or is held in the protective position when the cutting device is not in operation. This can ensure, for example, that the protective shield remains in the protective position or is moved into it even in the event of a power failure. For this purpose, it is preferably provided that the adjusting device is designed to move the protective shield from the protective position to the operating position upon activation of the adjusting device, overcoming a retaining force, and to move it automatically from the operating position to the protective position upon deactivation.

[0130] It is advantageous if the adjusting device comprises an adjusting means which holds the protective screen in the protective position with the retaining force when the adjusting device is deactivated. The adjusting device is further designed to apply an adjusting force to the adjusting means when the adjusting device is activated, wherein the retaining force is overcome by the adjusting force. For this purpose, the adjusting force is preferably greater than the retaining force. As a result, the protective screen is adjusted from the protective position to the operating position while overcoming the retaining force. If the adjusting force is removed or reduced, for example because the adjusting device is deactivated, the protective screen is moved automatically by the adjusting means, in particular due to the retaining force, from the operating position to the protective position.

[0131] The actuating device can, for example, be spring-controlled. In this case, the actuating means is designed, for example, as a tension spring. When the actuating device is activated, the tension spring is tensioned, in particular by means of a drive mechanism of the actuating device, whereby the actuating force overcomes the spring force of the tension spring. When the actuating device is deactivated, the actuating force is removed, and the protective shield is automatically moved from the operating position to the protective position while the tension spring is released.

[0132] Furthermore, the actuating device and / or the drive device of the actuating device can be fluid-controlled, in particular as a pneumatic or hydraulic actuating device. In this case, the actuating means can be subjected to a fluid, for example, compressed air or a liquid, when the actuating device is activated. When the actuating device is deactivated, the fluid can be drained, whereby the protective shield is automatically adjusted to the protective position. Optionally, the actuating device can be fluid- and spring-controlled, with the actuating force being generated by the application of the fluid.

[0133] The procedural problem is solved, in particular by utilizing the advantages and effects described above, in that the method of the type mentioned at the outset comprises the following steps: i) providing the outer packaging at the cutting device; ii) determining a cutting height at which the circumferential cutting path is to be applied to the outer packaging by a control unit; iii) moving the outer packaging into a first cutting position by a conveyor device and positioning the outer packaging in the first cutting position by a positioning device; iv) controlling opposing cutting systems for applying a first pair of cutting paths, which comprises a first and a second cutting path, by the control unit, wherein the opposing cutting systems each comprise a cutting unit, each with a cutting element, and wherein the cutting elements are aligned at the determined cutting height;v) Applying, parallel to a cutting direction for applying the first pair of cutting paths of the first cutting path in the outer packaging, in particular in a first side wall or a lid of the outer packaging, by means of the cutting element of a first cutting system of the opposing cutting systems, aligned at the specific cutting height in step iv), for applying the first pair of cutting paths and the second cutting path in the outer packaging, in particular in a second side wall or the lid of the outer packaging, by means of the cutting element of a second cutting system of the opposing cutting systems, aligned at the specific cutting height in step iv), for applying the first pair of cutting paths; vi) Moving the outer packaging from the first cutting position into a second cutting position, in particular by means of the conveying device, and positioning the outer packaging in the second cutting position by means of the positioning device;vii) controlling opposing cutting systems for applying a second pair of cutting paths comprising a third and fourth cutting path by the control unit, wherein the opposing cutting systems each comprise a cutting unit with a respective cutting element and wherein the cutting elements are aligned at the determined cutting height;viii) applying, parallel to a cutting direction for applying the second pair of cutting paths, the third cutting path in the outer packaging, in particular in a third side wall or the lid of the outer packaging, by means of the cutting element of a first cutting system of the opposing cutting systems, aligned at the specific cutting height in step vii), for applying the second pair of cutting paths, and the fourth cutting path in the outer packaging, in particular in a fourth side wall or the lid of the outer packaging, by means of the cutting element of a second cutting system of the opposing cutting systems, aligned at the specific cutting height in step vii), for applying the second pair of cutting paths, so that the first, second, third and fourth cutting paths result in a substantially horizontally circumferential cutting path, whereby a collar or a window section of the outer packaging is cut off;ix) Lifting off the cut-off collar or window section of the outer packaging; x) Transporting the outer packaging from the second cutting position after lifting off the collar or window section according to step ix) by the conveyor device. A particular advantage achieved with the method is that the height of the outer packaging can be reduced particularly efficiently and / or a closed outer packaging can be opened particularly efficiently.

[0134] Advantageously, it is provided that in step v) the first cutting path is applied in a first side wall of the outer packaging and the second cutting path is applied in a second side wall of the outer packaging and in step viii) the third cutting path is applied in a third side wall of the outer packaging and the fourth cutting path is applied in a fourth side wall of the outer packaging.

[0135] Optionally, in step v) the first and second cutting lines and in step viii) the third and fourth cutting lines are each applied to the lid of the outer packaging.

[0136] The provision of the outer packaging at the cutting device in step i) and / or the movement of the outer packaging into the first cutting position in step iii) takes place, in particular as previously described in connection with the conveying device, (automatically) by the conveying device of the cutting device.

[0137] Furthermore, the outer packaging can be moved from the first cutting position to the second cutting position by a relative movement between the outer packaging and the cutting elements. For example, the movement in step vi) can be achieved by moving the outer packaging from the first cutting position to a second cutting position by the conveyor device. Alternatively, for example, the orientation of the cutting units can be changed so that they can be moved first along the first cutting direction in step v) and then along the second cutting direction in step viii).

[0138] The cutting direction for applying the first pair of cutting paths can, for example, be provided by the previously described first cutting direction. Likewise, the cutting direction for applying the second pair of cutting paths can, as previously described, be provided by the first cutting direction or the second cutting direction. Furthermore, the cutting height in step ii) and / or the control in step iv), in particular as previously described in connection with the control unit, is determined by the control unit of the cutting device. The cutting height is expediently selected such that it is at least at the same height as the fill level, in particular higher.

[0139] If the height of the outer packaging is to be reduced, the cutting height is preferably determined so that the circumferential cutting line is positioned (as close as possible) above the fill level. If the outer packaging is to be opened, the cutting height is selected in particular so that the circumferential cutting line is positioned (as close as possible) below the lid, in particular directly below the lid. The cutting height expediently corresponds to the height of the outer packaging minus at least one wall thickness, in particular (at least) 200% of the wall thickness, of the lid. Thus, the circumferential cutting line is positioned directly below the lid.

[0140] In steps iv) and vii), the respective cutting systems for applying the first pair of cutting paths, in particular their movement devices, are controlled such that the cutting elements are aligned at the specific cutting height, in particular relative to the bottom of the outer packaging.

[0141] The cutting paths are preferably applied in steps v) and viii) by moving the cutting units of the respective cutting systems and thus also the cutting elements along the respective cutting direction.

[0142] The lifting of the collar and / or window cutout in step ix) can be carried out in particular by means of a lifting device as described above and, if appropriate, can comprise transferring the collar and / or window cutout to a disposal device as described above.

[0143] In step x), the outer packaging is transported away from the second cutting position by the conveyor device and, if necessary, transferred back to the conveyor system of the storage and / or order-picking system. It is advantageous if the cutting device has a first and / or a second cutting module for carrying out the method. The first and / or second cutting module can be designed as described above.

[0144] Particularly preferably, the method is carried out by means of a cutting device which is designed according to one of the aspects described above.

[0145] It is advantageous if, during the movement in step vi), the outer packaging is rotated by an angle of 90° around a vertical axis by means of a rotating device of the conveyor device. This is particularly advantageous if the first and second cutting positions are aligned at a 90° angle to each other and are thus characterized by a different orientation of the outer packaging.

[0146] It is advantageous if the same cutting systems, in particular the cutting systems of the first cutting module of the cutting device, are used in steps iv), v), vii), and viii). Thus, both the cutting systems for applying the first pair of cutting paths and those for applying the second pair of cutting paths can be identical and formed by the cutting systems of the first cutting module.

[0147] Alternatively, it can be provided that the outer packaging is moved from the first cutting module to a second cutting module during the movement in step vi) by the conveyor device. In this case, it can be provided that the first cutting module comprises the cutting systems for applying the first pair of cutting tracks, and the second cutting module comprises the cutting systems for applying the second pair of cutting tracks.

[0148] To achieve synchronized operation of the cutting device, steps i) to x) can be performed for a preceding outer packaging and for a subsequent outer packaging, with step iii) being performed for the subsequent outer packaging when the first cutting module is free of the preceding outer packaging. This allows a particularly high throughput to be achieved.

[0149] Furthermore, it can be provided that steps i) to x) are carried out for a preceding outer packaging and for a subsequent outer packaging, wherein step vi) is carried out for the subsequent outer packaging when the second cutting module is free of the preceding outer packaging, or wherein the subsequent outer packaging is temporarily stored in step vi) in a buffer space of a buffer device between the first and second cutting modules until the second cutting module is free of the preceding outer packaging. This ensures that there is no blockage or congestion in the cutting device, since the subsequent outer packaging is only moved further when there is space for it downstream in the conveying direction.

[0150] In order to ensure that the collar and / or window cutout are reliably cut off and, if necessary, that goods in the outer packaging are not damaged, it can be provided that the cutting paths in steps v) and viii) are applied with a penetration depth of the respective cutting element of at least one wall thickness of the respective side wall and a maximum of 400%, in particular 200%, of the wall thickness.

[0151] In order to efficiently and flexibly process outer packaging of different dimensions and / or outer packaging filled to different fill levels, it is advantageous if the determination of the cutting height in step ii) comprises the acquisition of (previously described) outer packaging data by means of a capture unit, after which the outer packaging data is transmitted to the control unit. As described above, the acquisition of the outer packaging data can comprise the determination of outer packaging data by the capture unit and the reading of stored outer packaging data from the electronic memory.

[0152] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the outer packaging and / or the outer packaging type are identified in step ii) based on the acquired outer packaging data, and outer packaging data associated with an outer packaging identity and stored in an electronic memory are read out. It is advantageous here if at least the outer packaging identity is determined as described above, for example, using an identification mark. The stored outer packaging data preferably include the outer packaging dimension and / or the fill level. This, for example, eliminates the need for additional sensors to detect the outer packaging dimension and / or the fill level.

[0153] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the outer packaging data comprise the fill level and / or an outer packaging dimension, in particular a height of the outer packaging, and in step ii) the fill level and / or the outer packaging dimension is recorded, after which the cutting height is selected such that it is at least at the same height as the fill level or at a height above the fill level and / or below an upper edge of the outer packaging and / or at the height of the lid of the outer packaging. The fill level can be recorded by reading it from the electronic memory. Alternatively, the fill level can be determined by the recording unit, as described above. One advantage achieved in this way is to be seen in particular in the fact that an actual fill level is recorded and the cutting height can be adjusted if necessary.This is particularly advantageous if the fill level changes during transport of the outer packaging by the conveyor device or the conveyor system of the storage and / or order picking system, in particular because the outer packaging is shaken and the goods therefore move in the outer packaging.

[0154] In order to secure the outer packaging against twisting during the application of the cutting tracks, it is advantageous if the positioning of the outer packaging in steps iii) and / or vi) comprises fixing the outer packaging, wherein a vertically movable presser of the positioning device is placed against the outer packaging from above in order to fix the outer packaging between the presser and a transport surface of the conveyor device.

[0155] Alternatively or additionally, the positioning of the outer packaging in steps iii) and / or vi) may include securing the outer packaging, wherein opposite side walls of the outer packaging are clamped between two positioning means of the positioning device. The positioning can be carried out, in particular, as previously described in connection with the positioning device.

[0156] Particularly preferably, the lifting of the cut-off collar and / or window cutout in step ix), as previously described in connection with the lifting device, takes place automatically, wherein the collar and / or window cutout is gripped by a gripping unit of a lifting device and lifted by a vertical movement of the gripping unit. It may be advantageous if the vertical movement comprises a vertical component, i.e., a movement component in the vertical direction, and optionally a transverse component, i.e., a movement component in the horizontal direction, in particular transverse to the conveying direction.If not all areas along the circumferential cutting path were severed during the application of the cutting paths, it can be provided that the lifting of the cut-off collar and / or window cutout in step ix) comprises a tearing-through of areas along the circumferential cutting path that were not severed during the application of the cutting paths in steps v) and viii). This can be done as previously described in connection with the lifting device. The tearing off of the cut-off collar and / or window cutout can be particularly reliable if the vertical movement includes a vertical component and a transverse component.

[0157] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the outer packaging is retained during the removal of the collar and / or window cutout in step ix). This is preferably achieved by the positioning means of the positioning device.

[0158] Taking advantage of the advantages and effects described above, it can be provided that the cutting elements of the cutting units are moved in an oscillating manner parallel to the respective cutting direction during the application of the cutting paths. The oscillating movement can be carried out, as described above, in the form of a linear movement or along a circular or elliptical path.

[0159] In order to ensure increased operational reliability, it can be provided that a cutting edge of the cutting elements is in each case covered by a protective screen in a protective position while the respective cutting unit is not in use, and the protective screen is adjusted from the protective position into an operating position in which the cutting edge is exposed by activating an adjusting device, wherein the adjusting device is activated when the respective cutting unit is used to apply a cutting path. It is preferably provided that the protective screen is adjusted back into the protective position when the adjusting device is deactivated. This preferably occurs when a cutting process is ended, the cutting device is switched off or when maintenance work is carried out on the cutting device. The adjustment of the protective screen can in particular take place as described above.Particularly preferably, the protective screen is locked in the protective position by means of a locking device. Taking advantage of the advantages and effects described above, it can be provided, in particular, that the cutting units are controlled by the control unit in such a way that cutting heads of the cutting units or cutting systems for applying the first and second cutting paths in step v), in particular during the application of the first cutting path pair, are moved (translationally) synchronously parallel to the cutting direction for applying the first cutting path pair, in particular along the first cutting direction, and cutting heads of the cutting units orCutting systems for applying the third and fourth cutting paths in step viii), in particular during the application of the second pair of cutting paths, are moved synchronously parallel to the cutting direction for applying the second pair of cutting paths, in particular along the second cutting direction (translational). This can be done in particular as described above.

[0160] For a better understanding of the invention, it is explained in more detail using the following figures.

[0161] They show in a highly simplified representation:

[0162] Fig. 1a and 1b a cutting device;

[0163] Fig. 2a and 2b the cutting device in an alternative embodiment;

[0164] Fig. 3a and 3b show the cutting device in a further alternative embodiment;

[0165] Fig. 4 an outer packaging;

[0166] Fig. 5 shows a detection unit of the cutting device;

[0167] Fig. 6a, 6b a movement device for moving cutting units;

[0168] Fig. 7a to 7c a positioning device for positioning the outer packaging;

[0169] Fig. 8a to 8c show a lifting device of the cutting device; Fig. 9a, 9b show a clamping gripper of the lifting device;

[0170] Fig. 10a, 10b a detailed view of the cutting unit;

[0171] Fig. 10c, lOd a cutting element with rounded penetration end;

[0172] Fig. 11 the cutting device in perspective view;

[0173] Fig. 12 shows a method for applying a circumferential cutting path.

[0174] By way of introduction, it should be noted that in the variously described embodiments, identical parts are provided with identical reference symbols or component designations. The disclosures contained throughout the description can be applied mutatis mutandis to identical parts with identical reference symbols or component designations. Furthermore, the positional information chosen in the description, such as top, bottom, side, etc., refers to the directly described and illustrated figure and, in the event of a change in position, is to be applied mutatis mutandis to the new position.

[0175] In Fig. 1a to Fig. 3b, a simplified schematic representation of a cutting device 1 is shown, which is designed to apply a circumferential cutting path S in an outer packaging 2.

[0176] The cutting device 1 comprises a first cutting position, in which a first cutting path S1 and a second cutting path S2 can be applied, as well as a second cutting position, in which a third cutting path S3 and a fourth cutting path S4 can be applied. The cutting paths S1..S4 adjoin one another to form the circumferential cutting path S. This cuts off a collar 22 and / or a window cutout 24 of the outer packaging 2.

[0177] As shown by way of example in Fig. 1a, Fig. 1b and Fig. 2b, the outer packaging 2 can have a lid 23 by means of which the outer packaging 2 is closed at the top.

[0178] For transporting the outer packaging 2 along a conveying direction F, in particular from an inlet side to an outlet side of the cutting device 1, the cutting device 1 can comprise a conveying device 3, which can also be designed to move the outer packaging 2 from the first cutting position to the second cutting position. In the illustrations shown, in particular in Fig. 1a to Fig. 8b and in Fig. 11, the conveying direction F runs essentially from right to left.

[0179] Optionally, the conveying device 3 may comprise a stationary conveyor system and / or a mobile conveyor system. The stationary conveyor system may, in particular, comprise a roller conveyor and / or a (two-track) belt conveyor.

[0180] As indicated by dashed lines, the conveying device 3 can have an inlet conveying section 31 leading to the first cutting module 4a, a cutting module conveying section 32 adjoining the inlet conveying section 31 and an outlet conveying section 33 adjoining the cutting module conveying section 32 and leading away from the first cutting module 4a or second cutting module 4b.

[0181] In this case, it can be provided that the conveying device 3 comprises a roller conveyor in the inlet conveying section 31 and in the outlet conveying section 33 and a (two-track) belt conveyor in the cutting module conveying section 32.

[0182] The cutting devices 1 shown in Fig. 1a to Fig. 3b each comprise a first cutting module 4a. The first cutting module 4a can, as shown in Fig. 1a, Fig. 2a and Fig. 3a, be designed to apply cutting paths S1..S4, S in opposite side walls 21a..21d of the outer packaging 2. Alternatively or additionally, the first cutting module 4a can, as shown in Fig. 1b, Fig. 2b and Fig. 3b, be designed to apply cutting paths S1..S4, S in the lid 23 of the outer packaging 2. Advantageously, the first cutting module 4a comprises two opposing cutting systems, each having a cutting unit 41.

[0183] In addition, the cutting device 1, as shown in Fig. 2a, Fig. 2b, Fig. 3a, and Fig. 3b, can comprise a second cutting module 4b, which is arranged downstream of the first cutting module 4a in the conveying direction F. The second cutting module 4b can, as shown in Fig. 2a and Fig. 3a, be designed to apply cutting paths S in opposite side walls 21a..21d of the outer packaging 2. Alternatively or additionally, the second cutting module 4b, as shown in Fig. 2b and Fig. 3b, can be designed to apply cutting paths S1..S4, S in the lid 23 of the outer packaging 2. Analogous to the first cutting module 4a, the second cutting module 4b comprises two opposing cutting systems, each with a cutting unit 41.

[0184] In addition, the cutting units 41 each have a cutting head 42 and a cutting element 43 mounted on the cutting head 42. The cutting head 42 can be mounted on the cutting unit 41 so as to be pivotable about a horizontal pivot axis, so that it can be moved from the orientation shown in Fig. 1a, Fig. 2a and Fig. 3a, in which the cutting element 43 is aligned horizontally for applying cutting paths S1..S4, S in the side walls 21a..21d, into the orientation shown in Fig. 1b, Fig. 2b and Fig. 3b, in which the cutting element 43 is aligned vertically for applying cutting paths S1..S4, S in the cover 23.

[0185] Preferably, the first cutting module 4a, as shown in Fig. 1a to Fig. 3b, is oriented parallel to the conveying direction F or provided in a longitudinal orientation, so that a first cutting direction runs parallel to the conveying direction F. Alternatively, the first cutting module 4a can be provided in a transverse orientation, in which the first cutting direction forms a right angle with the conveying direction F in a horizontal plane. This is not explicitly shown.

[0186] The second cutting module 4b can be oriented transversely to the conveying direction F, as shown in Fig. 2a and Fig. 2b, or can be provided in a transverse orientation, such that a second cutting direction in a horizontal plane forms a right angle with the conveying direction F. Alternatively, the second cutting module 4b can be provided in the longitudinal orientation, as shown in Fig. 3a and Fig. 3b, such that the second cutting direction runs parallel to the conveying direction F.

[0187] The cutting units 41 can be moved parallel to the respective cutting direction. This means that the cutting units 41 of the first cutting module 4a can be moved parallel to the first cutting direction, and the cutting units 41 of the second cutting module 4b can be moved parallel to the second cutting direction.

[0188] If only the first cutting module 4a is provided, as shown by way of example in Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b, the first cutting position and the second cutting position are arranged in the region of the first cutting module 4a. In this case, the outer packaging 2 is oriented longitudinally to the conveying direction F in the first cutting position and transversely to the conveying direction F in the second cutting position.

[0189] For this purpose, the conveying device 3 can be provided with a rotating device 34, with which the outer packaging 2 can be moved by 90° about a vertical axis from the first cutting position to the second cutting position. The rotating device 34 is arranged for this purpose in the region of the first cutting module 4a. Thus, in a first step, the first cutting path S1 and the second cutting path S2 can be applied, in a second step the outer packaging 2 can be rotated and in a third step the third cutting path S3 and the fourth cutting path S4 can be applied. The cutting paths S1..S4 can be applied here by means of the first cutting module 4a. Here, the first and second cutting paths S1, S2 and the third and fourth cutting paths S3, S4 are applied along the first cutting direction. In other words, the first and second cutting directions are identical.

[0190] If, in addition to the first cutting module 4a, the second cutting module 4b is also provided, as shown by way of example in Fig. 2a, Fig. 2b, Fig. 3a and Fig. 3b, the first cutting position is in the area of ​​the first cutting module 4a and the second cutting position is in the area of ​​the second cutting module 4b.

[0191] The conveyor device 3 is designed to move the outer packaging 2 from the first cutting module 4a to the second cutting module 4b. Thus, in the first step, the first cutting path S1 and the second cutting path S2 can be applied by the first cutting module 4a, the outer packaging 2 can be moved from the first cutting module 4a to the second cutting module 4b in the second step, and the third and fourth cutting paths S4 can be applied by the second cutting module 4b in the third step.

[0192] On the one hand, it can be provided that the first cutting module 4a and the second cutting module 4b are oriented rotated by 90° to one another, so that the orientation of the outer packaging 2 does not have to be changed. For this purpose, as shown in Fig. 2a and Fig. 2b, the first cutting module 4a can be provided in the longitudinal orientation and the second cutting module 4b in the transverse orientation, or vice versa, as not explicitly shown. The outer packaging 2 is aligned longitudinally to the conveying direction F both in the first cutting position and in the second cutting position. On the other hand, it can be provided that the first cutting module 4a and the second cutting module 4b are oriented the same, so that the outer packaging 2 has to be rotated as previously described for Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b. For this purpose, the first cutting module 4a and the second cutting module 4b can be provided in the longitudinal orientation, as shown in Fig. 3a and Fig. 3b.In this case, it is provided that the outer packaging 2 is oriented longitudinally to the conveying direction F in the first cutting position and transversely to the conveying direction F in the second cutting position. Alternatively, the first cutting module 4a and the second cutting module 4b can be provided in the transverse orientation, as not explicitly shown. In this case, it can be provided that the outer packaging 2 is oriented transversely to the conveying direction F in the first cutting position and longitudinally to the conveying direction F in the second cutting position.

[0193] In order to rotate the outer packaging 2 between the first cutting module 4a and the second cutting module 4b, the conveying device 3 can in turn comprise a rotating device 34, which is arranged, for example, between the first cutting module 4a and the second cutting module 4b.

[0194] In order to move the cutting units 41, it can be provided that the cutting systems each have a movement device 5, which is assigned to the respective cutting unit 41. The cutting units 41 are mounted on the respectively assigned movement device 5. Furthermore, the movement devices 5 are designed in particular as described below in connection with Fig. 6a and Fig. 6b.

[0195] Furthermore, the cutting device 1 can have a detection unit 6, which is particularly located upstream of the first cutting module 4a and is described in more detail in connection with Fig. 5. The detection unit 6 is designed to detect outer packaging data. The detection unit 6 is not essential, especially if the outer packaging data is known, for example, from a product flow or an outer packaging sequence with which the outer packaging 2 is provided.

[0196] Furthermore, the cutting device 1 comprises a control unit 7, which is configured, on the one hand, to determine the cutting height and, on the other hand, to control the cutting systems or cutting units 41, in particular the respective movement devices 5, such that the circumferential cutting path S is positioned at the specified cutting height. If a movement device 5 is provided, it is advantageous if the control unit 7 is connected to it in order to control it.

[0197] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the control unit 7 is connected to the detection unit 6 in terms of data technology, as will be explained in more detail in connection with Fig. 5.

[0198] Optionally, the cutting device 1 comprises an electronic memory 71, which is connected to the control unit 7 and / or to the acquisition unit 6. Outer packaging data can be stored in the electronic memory 71. This is referred to as stored outer packaging data.

[0199] In order to position and / or fix the outer packaging 2 in the respective cutting position, the cutting device 1 comprises a positioning device 8a, 8b, which is described in more detail below with reference to Fig. 7a and Fig. 7b.

[0200] In order to automatically lift off the cut-off collar 22 and / or window cutout 24, it can be provided that the cutting device 1 comprises a lifting device 9. The lifting device 9 is preferably arranged in the region of the cutting module 4a, 4b with which the third and fourth cutting paths S3, S4 are applied. For reasons of clarity, the optional lifting device 9 is only shown in dashed lines in Fig. 2a, Fig. 2b, Fig. 3a and Fig. 3b. Of course, this can also be provided in the cutting device 1 shown in Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b. The lifting device 9 is described in more detail below in connection with Fig. 8a to Fig. 8c.

[0201] Furthermore, the cutting device 1 can comprise an optional disposal device 10, to which the cut-off collar 22 and / or window cutout 24 can be transferred. The optional disposal device 10 is shown as an example in Fig. 2a and Fig. 2b as representative of various embodiments of the cutting device 1, but can also be provided in conjunction with other embodiments of the cutting device 1.

[0202] Furthermore, it can be provided that the conveying device 3 comprises a buffer device which is arranged between the first cutting module 4a and the second cutting module 4b and in which the outer packaging 2 can be temporarily stored. The outer packaging 2 is shown in Fig. 4, wherein it can be seen that the first and second side walls 21a, 21b and the third and fourth side walls 21c, 21d lie opposite one another in pairs. The first and second cutting paths S1, S2 are arranged in the first and second side walls 21a, 21b and the third and fourth cutting paths S3, S4 are arranged in the third and fourth side walls 21c, 21d. The cutting paths S1..S4 are arranged at the same cutting height, so that they form the circumferential cutting path S. The area above the circumferential cutting path S is referred to as the (cut-off) collar 22. If necessary, the outer packaging 2 can comprise a lid 23. The lid 23 is shown as an example in one of the outer packagings 2 in Fig.1a and in the outer packaging 2 in Fig. 1b and Fig. 2b. As shown in Fig. 1b and Fig. 2b, instead of the (cut-off) collar 22, a window cutout 24 can be cut out by attaching the circumferential cutting path S in the lid 23, so that the interior of the outer packaging 2 is accessible via a window.

[0203] As a rule, the outer packaging 2 is filled with goods W, for example, with clothing, shoe boxes, or the like, up to a filling height H. As can be seen in Fig. 4, the filling height H is below an upper edge of the outer packaging 2. Furthermore, the cutting height is preferably selected such that it is above the filling height H.

[0204] Fig. 5 shows the detection unit 6 in a schematic and highly simplified manner. It is advantageous if it has a sensor system designed to detect outer packaging data.

[0205] If, for example, the outer packaging identity is to be recorded, it can be provided that the sensor system has a reading device for detecting an identification mark arranged on the outer packaging 2.

[0206] Alternatively or additionally, as shown by way of example in Fig. 11, it can be provided that the sensor system has a light curtain and / or one or more light barriers 61 in order to detect the outer packaging dimension.

[0207] Furthermore, the sensor system can be provided with a camera system 62, with which an image of the outer packaging 2 can be recorded in a top view. In this case, the detection unit 6 can be provided with a computer system configured to determine the outer packaging dimension and / or the fill level H from the recorded image using an image recognition algorithm. As shown by way of example in Fig. 11, the camera system 62 can be arranged above the conveyor device 3.

[0208] It is also advantageous if the recording unit 6 is connected to the control unit 7 and / or the electronic memory for data processing purposes. Thus, outer packaging data recorded or determined by the recording unit 6 can be transmitted to the control unit 7 and / or stored in the electronic memory.

[0209] Furthermore, the detection unit 6 can be designed to read stored outer packaging data associated with the outer packaging identity from the electronic memory 71, for example the outer packaging dimension and / or fill level H. The outer packaging data can then be transmitted from the detection unit 6 to the control unit 7.

[0210] Fig. 6a and Fig. 6b show a schematic representation of two opposing cutting systems. In the example shown, the cutting systems each comprise a movement device 5, on which a cutting unit 41 is mounted. The movement devices 5 of the two opposing cutting systems are identical and, in particular, mirrored on a vertical plane. The cutting heads 42 of the cutting systems can be aligned as shown in Fig. 1a, Fig. 2a, Fig. 3a, Fig. 6a and Fig. 6b or as shown in Fig. 1b, Fig. 2b and Fig. 3b. Optionally, the cutting heads 42 can be pivotally mounted on the respective cutting unit 41 as described above.

[0211] If the (first and / or second) cutting module 4a, 4b is arranged in the longitudinal orientation, the movement devices 5 of the respective cutting module 4a, 4b can be aligned such that the respective cutting direction runs parallel to the conveying direction F. This is shown in Fig. 6a. Alternatively, the movement devices 5 of the respective cutting module 4a, 4b can be aligned such that the respective cutting direction runs transversely to the conveying direction F, in particular if the (first and / or second) cutting module 4a, 4b is arranged in the transverse orientation. This is shown in Fig. 6b.

[0212] The movement devices 5 can preferably comprise a first linear guide unit 51, on which the cutting unit 41 is mounted so as to be movable parallel to the respective cutting direction. This is indicated in Fig. 6a and Fig. 6b by a double arrow parallel to the first linear guide unit 51. If outer packaging 2 of different widths is to be processed with the cutting device 1 or a window cutout 24 of different width is to be applied, it can also be provided that the cutting units 41 are movable towards one another in a horizontal plane so that a distance or a receiving width between the cutting units 41 can be changed. For this purpose, the cutting units 41 can be moved transversely or transversely to the conveying direction F, as shown in Fig. 6a, or parallel to the conveying direction F, as shown in Fig. 6b, as indicated by corresponding double arrows.For this purpose, the movement devices 5 can each comprise a second linear guide unit 52, on which the first linear guide unit 51 is displaceably mounted. However, this is not essential if the cutting device 1 is only intended to process outer packaging 2 of the same width.

[0213] To adjust the cutting height, the cutting heads 42 or the cutting units 41 can be vertically movable, as indicated in Fig. 6a and Fig. 6b by a vertical double arrow. This may be omitted if the same cutting height is always determined, for example, to shorten outer packaging 2 to a uniform height or if the conveyor device 3 is designed to be height-adjustable. If the cutting elements 43 are to be moved vertically, the movement device 5 can additionally have a further linear guide unit 53 on which the cutting unit 41 or the cutting head 42 is displaceably mounted.

[0214] Fig. 7a schematically illustrates a press-down device 8a of the positioning device. The press-down device 8a is vertically movable and, as shown in Fig. 7a, can be positioned against the upper edges of opposing side walls 21a..21d to secure the outer packaging 2 between a transport surface of the conveyor device 3 and the press-down device 8a.

[0215] The press-down device 8a can be arranged in the region of the first cutting module 4a in order to fix the outer packaging 2 in the first cutting position, as shown in Fig. 1 to Fig. 3. Optionally, another such press-down device 8a can be arranged in the region of the second cutting module 4b.

[0216] Fig. 7b schematically illustrates a positioning unit of the positioning device. The positioning unit comprises two opposing positioning means 8b that can be moved horizontally toward each other. As indicated in Fig. 7b, the positioning means 8b can be positioned with positioning surfaces on opposite side walls 21a..21d of the outer packaging 2 in order to fix it in place and, on the other hand, to center it on the conveyor device 3.

[0217] In addition, a further positioning unit of the positioning device is shown schematically in Fig. 7c. The positioning unit shown comprises two positioning means which can be moved relative to one another and can therefore also be moved towards one another. A first positioning means is designed as a stop element 8c. The stop element 8c can be moved via a drive device between an initial position, in particular located below a transport surface of the conveyor device 3, and a positioning position, in particular located above the transport surface of the conveyor device 3. For this purpose, the stop element 8c can be moved vertically or arranged on a belt rotating about two horizontal axes. A second positioning means comprises form-fitting drivers 8d which can be placed against a side wall of the outer packaging 2.The carriers 8d are arranged on the conveyor device 3, in particular on the conveyor belts of the conveyor device. As can be seen in Fig. 7c, the outer packaging 2 can be clamped between the stop element 8c and the carrier 8d or carriers 8d when the stop element 8c is in the positioning position.

[0218] It is advantageous if a positioning unit is arranged in the area of ​​the first cutting module 4a and / or in the area of ​​the second cutting module 4b, as shown in Fig. 1 to Fig. 3. The positioning unit in the area of ​​the first cutting module 4a can be omitted if a press-down device 8a is provided. Optionally, another such positioning unit can be arranged in the area of ​​the detection unit 6.

[0219] In Fig. 8a to Fig. 8c, a vertically movable gripping unit of the lifting device 9 is schematically shown, with which the collar 22 and / or the window cutout 24 of the outer packaging 2 can be lifted automatically.

[0220] The gripping unit shown comprises a plurality of gripping elements 91, wherein at least some of the gripping elements 91 are designed as clamp grippers, as suction grippers and / or as needle grippers.

[0221] As shown in Fig. 8a, the clamping grippers are designed such that a side wall can be clamped between clamping surfaces 92 of the clamping gripper. Furthermore, the suction grippers can be designed such that they can be positioned against the lid 23 of the outer packaging 2, in particular against the window cutout 24, and grip it by applying a vacuum, as shown in Fig. 8b. Alternatively, the suction grippers can also be positioned against side walls 21a...21c.

[0222] Fig. 8c shows a needle gripper, wherein the needles of the needle gripper can essentially penetrate the lid 23 of the outer packaging 2, in particular the window cutout 24, in order to grasp it. The needle gripper can also be arranged such that its needles can penetrate the side wall.

[0223] Some of the gripping elements 91 or all of the gripping elements 91 of the gripping unit are preferably horizontally movable in order to drop the cut-off collar 22 or the window cutout 24 next to the conveying device 3 and to transfer it, for example, to the disposal device 10.

[0224] In Fig. 9a and Fig. 9b, a gripping element 91 is shown, which is designed as a preferred variant of a clamping gripper.

[0225] In the variant shown, the clamping gripper comprises two clamping surfaces 92 that can be moved towards one another. Clamping projections 93 and clamping recesses 94 are arranged on the clamping surfaces 92, which can engage with one another.

[0226] A preferred embodiment of the cutting unit 41 is shown in Fig. 10a and Fig. 10b, wherein the cutting head 42 is shown in Fig. 10a in a protective configuration in which a cutting edge of the cutting element 43 is concealed, and in Fig. 10b in an operating configuration in which the cutting edge is exposed.

[0227] The illustrated cutting head 42 comprises a base body 421 and a cutting element receptacle 422 mounted on the base body 421, on which the cutting element 43 is mounted. The cutting element receptacle 422 is preferably mounted on the base body 421 via elastic buffers 44. Furthermore, the illustrated cutting head 42 comprises a connection arrangement 423, wherein the base body 421 is mounted on the connection arrangement 423 via elastic buffers 44.

[0228] Furthermore, the cutting element 43 is movably mounted on the cutting element holder 422 and driven by a cutting element drive device 45 to perform an oscillating movement relative to the cutting head 42 parallel to the respective cutting direction. In the example shown, the cutting element drive device 45 is also arranged on the cutting element holder 422.

[0229] Furthermore, the illustrated cutting head 42 comprises a support member 46, which is mounted on the cutting element holder 422. In the example shown, the support member 46 has a first support element and a second support element, each of which is roller-shaped and can be placed on a side wall in a roll-like manner.

[0230] Furthermore, it is provided, for example, that the cutting units 41 each comprise a cutting head holder 47, wherein the cutting head 42, in particular the base body 421 or the connection arrangement 423, is fastened to the cutting head holder 47. In this case, it can be provided that the cutting head 42 is mounted horizontally movable on the cutting head holder 47, as indicated in Fig. 10a and Fig. 10b by a dashed double arrow.

[0231] The cutting element 43 comprises a cutting edge, which in the illustrated example has a first cutting section 431 and a second cutting section 432. The cutting sections 431, 432 are arranged in a horizontal cutting plane and preferably enclose an acute angle, so that they form a tip of the cutting element 43.

[0232] In order to conceal the cutting edge in the protective configuration while the respective cutting element 43 is not in use, a protective shield 48 can be provided. The protective shield 48 can be adjusted by means of an adjusting device 49 between a protective position shown in Fig. 10a, in which the cutting edge is concealed by the protective shield 48, and an operating position shown in Fig. 10b, in which at least part of the cutting edge is exposed or not concealed by the protective shield 48. As shown in Fig. 10a and Fig. 10b, both the protective shield 48 and the adjusting device 49 can be mounted on the cutting element holder 422.

[0233] As can be seen in Fig. 10b, a normal distance N between a vertical tangential plane of a vertex of the cutting element 43 and a contact surface of the support member 46 is preferably constant. Alternatively, the cutting head 42 can be designed essentially as a reciprocating knife, wherein the cutting element 43 is movably mounted on the cutting element holder 422 and driven by the cutting element drive device 45 in order to execute an oscillating movement relative to the cutting head 42 orthogonal to the respective cutting direction.

[0234] In order to protect the goods W within the outer packaging 2 from damage by the cutting element 43, the cutting element 43 can be designed with a rounded penetration end 433, as shown by way of example in Fig. 10c, or with a spherical penetration end 433, as shown by way of example in Fig. 10d. The rounded penetration end 433 connects the two cutting sections 431, 432.

[0235] As shown in Fig. 10c, the cutting sections 431, 432 can run parallel to each other and be connected via the penetration end 433. As shown by way of example in Fig. 10c, the penetration end 433 can be rounded. Although not explicitly shown, alternatively, with two parallel cutting sections 431, 432, the penetration end 433 can be spherical, as shown in Fig. 10d.

[0236] Alternatively, the cutting sections can enclose an acute angle, as described above. The tip thus formed, as described above, can be formed by a spherical penetration end 433, as shown by way of example in Fig. 10d. Although not explicitly shown, the tip can also be formed by a rounded penetration end 433, as shown in Fig. 10c.

[0237] Fig. 11 shows a perspective view of a cutting device 1, which comprises a conveying device 3, a detecting device, a positioning device, a lifting device 9, a first cutting module 4a and a second cutting module 4b.

[0238] The detection device comprises a sensor system designed to detect a position of the outer packaging 2 and, if applicable, a length and / or width of the outer packaging 2. In the example shown, the sensor system comprises a light barrier 61. In addition, the detection device has a camera system 62 for capturing an image of the outer packaging 2 in plan view. As can be seen in Fig. 11, the camera system 62 is arranged above the conveying device 3. Downstream of the detection device in the conveying direction F is the first cutting module 4a, which is provided in the longitudinal orientation. The first cutting module 4a comprises two cutting systems, each with a movement device 5, on each of which a cutting unit 41 is arranged.

[0239] Furthermore, the second cutting module 4b, which is provided in the transverse orientation, is arranged downstream of the first cutting module 4a in the conveying direction F. Thus, the illustrated cutting device 1 is constructed essentially analogously to the cutting device 1 of Fig. 2a and / or Fig. 2b. The second cutting module 4b comprises two cutting systems, each with a movement device 5, on each of which a cutting unit 41 is arranged.

[0240] The first and second cutting modules 4a, 4b, the cutting systems, the movement devices 5 and the cutting units 41 are designed as previously described.

[0241] In the area of ​​the first cutting module 4a, the positioning device has a press-down device 8a, which is designed as previously described in connection with Fig. 7a.

[0242] Furthermore, the positioning device has a positioning unit with opposing positioning means 8b in the region of the detection device, which is designed as previously described in connection with Fig. 7b. This positioning unit can be used to position and fix the outer packaging 2 for image capture.

[0243] Furthermore, the positioning device has a positioning unit with opposing positioning means 8b in the area of ​​the first cutting module 4a and in the area of ​​the second cutting module 4b, which are also designed as previously described in connection with Fig. 7b. These positioning units can be used to position and fix the outer packaging 2 during the application of the respective cutting paths S1..S4.

[0244] The lifting device 9 is arranged in the region of the second cutting module 4b and comprises a plurality of gripping elements 91, which are designed as clamping grippers, as described in connection with Fig. 8a. Of course, the gripping means can also be designed as suction grippers and / or needle grippers, as described in connection with Fig. 8b and Fig. 8c. The positioning device and / or lifting device 9 can also be provided in the same way in a cutting device 1, which is designed as described in connection with Fig. 1a to Fig. 3b.

[0245] Furthermore, the positioning unit in the region of the detection unit 6 comprises a vertically adjustable stop element 8c, for example a stop plate. The stop element 8c can be moved via a drive device between an initial position, in particular located below a transport surface of the conveyor device 3, and a positioning position, in particular located above the transport surface of the conveyor device 3. The stop element 8c is arranged in the region of the detection unit 6 in order to position the outer packaging 2 for capturing the image. Of course, this can also be provided in a positioning unit which is arranged in the region of the first and / or second cutting module 4a, 4b. In this case, it can be provided in particular that the stop element 8c interacts with the drivers 8d, as previously described in connection with Fig. 7c.

[0246] In the example shown, the conveyor device 3 is designed as a roller conveyor in the inlet conveyor section 31 and in the outlet conveyor section 33 and as a (two-track) belt conveyor in the cutting module conveyor section 32.

[0247] In order to transport the outer packaging 2 particularly reliably, in the example shown, positively acting carriers 8d are arranged on conveyor belts of the belt conveyor, which carriers can be placed against a side wall of the outer packaging 2. Even if this is only shown in Fig. 11, this can also be provided in other embodiments of the cutting device 1, in particular if it is designed as described in connection with Fig. 1a to Fig. 3b.

[0248] Finally, the cutting device 1 can comprise a monitoring device having a monitoring sensor system for detecting the outer packaging 2 in the first and / or second cutting position and configured to issue a fault message if the outer packaging 2 is moved from the respective cutting position during the application of a cutting path S and / or during the lifting of a cut-off collar 22 and / or window cutout 24. In the example shown, the monitoring sensor system comprises a plurality of light barriers 61, which are arranged in the inlet conveyor section 31, in the cutting module conveyor section 32, and / or in the outlet conveyor section 33. Furthermore, the monitoring sensor system in the area of ​​the first cutting module 4a and / or the second cutting module 4b can comprise an optional ultrasonic sensor, which is arranged below a transport surface of the conveyor device 3. The ultrasonic sensor is shown in Fig.11 not explicitly shown.

[0249] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the monitoring device has a further monitoring sensor system 63, which is designed to detect the collar 22 and / or window cutout 24 while the collar 22 and / or window cutout 24 is moving away from the outer packaging 2. The monitoring sensor system 63 preferably comprises an ultrasonic sensor or a light barrier, the measuring beam of which, in particular a light beam, crosses a moving-away trajectory of the collar 22 and / or window cutout 24.

[0250] Of course, the monitoring device described in connection with Fig. 11 can also be provided in a cutting device 1 which is designed as previously described in connection with Fig. 1a to Fig. 3b.

[0251] In Fig. 12, a method for applying the circumferential cutting path S in the side walls 21a..21d of an outer packaging 2 filled with goods W up to the filling level H is shown schematically, which can be carried out in particular with the cutting device 1 described above.

[0252] The method essentially comprises the following steps: i) Providing 100 the outer packaging 2 on the cutting device 1; ii) Determining 110 the cutting height; iii) Moving 120 the outer packaging 2 into the first cutting position; iv) Controlling and aligning 130 the cutting systems; v) Attaching 140 a first pair of cutting paths; vi) Moving 150 the outer packaging 2 into the second cutting position; vii) Controlling and aligning 160 the cutting systems; viii) Attaching 170 a second pair of cutting paths; ix) Lifting 180 the cut-off collar 22 or window cutout 24; x) Transporting 190 the outer packaging 2 from the second cutting position.

[0253] For the provision 100 in step i), the outer packaging 2 is transported to the cutting device 1 and transferred to the conveyor device 3 of the cutting device 1. This can be done, for example, by a conveyor system of a storage and order-picking system that connects to the conveyor device 3 of the cutting device 1. The provision 100 is carried out by means of the conveyor device 3 of the cutting device 1.

[0254] Furthermore, the cutting height is determined 110 in step ii) by the control unit 7 of the cutting device 1. Outer packaging data can be acquired here, wherein the outer packaging data is determined by the acquisition unit 6 as described above and / or read from the electronic memory by the acquisition unit 6 or the control unit 7. Particularly preferably, in step ii), the fill height H and / or the height of the outer packaging 2 is determined as described above by means of the camera system 62 and / or the computer system.

[0255] During the movement 120 of the outer packaging 2 into the first cutting position in step iii), the outer packaging 2 is transported or moved by the conveyor device 3, in particular from the detection unit 6, to the first cutting module 4a. The outer packaging 2 is then positioned in the first cutting position by means of the positioning device, optionally centered on the conveyor device 3, and fixed. Here, the outer packaging 2 can be fixed by means of the press-down device 8a and, optionally, as previously described, by means of the positioning means 8b, 8c, 8d.

[0256] The control and alignment 160 of the cutting systems in step iv) is carried out by the control unit 7, wherein the cutting systems of the first cutting module 4a are controlled in such a way that these or their cutting units 41 are aligned in the cutting height for applying the first and second cutting paths SI, S2 to the first or second side wall 21a, 21b or to the cover 23.

[0257] In step v), the first pair of cutting paths is applied 170, with the cutting elements 43 being moved along the first cutting direction, so that, as shown by way of example in Fig. 2a, the first cutting path SI is applied in the first side wall 21a and the second cutting path S2 is applied in the second side wall 21b, or, as shown by way of example in Fig. 2b, the first and second cutting paths SI, S2 are each applied in the lid 23. Subsequently, the outer packaging 2 is moved 180 into the second cutting position by means of the conveyor device 3.

[0258] If the cutting device 1 comprises only the first cutting module 4a, as described for example in connection with Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b, the outer packaging 2 can be rotated by 90° about a vertical axis by means of the rotating device 34 and thus brought from the first cutting position into the second cutting position.

[0259] If a first cutting module 4a and a second cutting module 4b are provided which are differently oriented, as described in connection with Fig. 2a and Fig. 2b, the outer packaging 2 can be transported by the conveyor device 3 from the first cutting module 4a to the second cutting module 4b without changing its orientation and can be provided there in the second cutting position.

[0260] Furthermore, it can be provided that the first cutting module 4a and the second cutting module 4b are oriented identically, as described in connection with Fig. 3a and Fig. 3b. Here, the outer packaging 2 can be transported by the conveyor device 3, on the one hand, from the first cutting module 4a to the second cutting module 4b and, on the other hand, rotated by 90° about a vertical axis by the rotating device 34 and provided at the second cutting module 4b in the second cutting position.

[0261] Regardless of whether only the first cutting module 4a or additionally the second cutting module 4b is provided, the outer packaging 2 is positioned in the second cutting position by the positioning device, optionally centered on the conveyor device 3, and secured. The outer packaging 2 can be secured by means of the press-down device 8a and / or by means of the positioning means 8b. Optionally, the outer packaging 2 can be (additionally) secured by the gripping unit of the lifting device 9.

[0262] In step vii), the control and alignment 160 of the cutting systems takes place by the control unit 7. Depending on whether the second cutting position is in the area of ​​the first cutting module 4a or in the area of ​​the second cutting module 4b, the cutting systems of the first cutting module 4a or the second cutting module 4b are controlled in such a way that they or their cutting units 41 are aligned in the cutting height for applying the third and fourth cutting path S3, S4 to the third or fourth side wall 21c, 21d or the cover 23.

[0263] Subsequently, the attachment 170 of the second pair of cutting paths takes place, wherein the cutting elements 43 are moved along the second cutting direction, so that, as shown by way of example in Fig. 2a, the third cutting path S3 is attached in the third side wall 21c and the fourth cutting path S4 is attached in the fourth side wall 21d or, as shown by way of example in Fig. 2b, the third and fourth cutting paths S3, S4 are attached in the cover 23. If only the first cutting module 4a is provided or if the first cutting module 4a and the second cutting module 4b are oriented the same, the second cutting direction can run parallel to the first cutting direction or be identical to it. If the first cutting module 4a and the second cutting module 4b are oriented differently, the second cutting direction can enclose a right angle with the first cutting direction in a horizontal plane.

[0264] Here, the outer packaging 2 is preferably fixed by the gripping unit of the lifting device 9.

[0265] Subsequently, in step ix), the lifting 180 of the cut-off collar 22 or the cut-off window cutout 24 is carried out by moving the gripping unit of the lifting device 9, which holds the cut-off collar 22 or window cutout 24, vertically upwards.

[0266] If not all areas, especially corner areas, have been severed along the circumferential cutting path S, these can be torn off and thus severed by an upward vertical movement of the gripping unit.

[0267] The collar 22 or the window cutout 24 can optionally be transferred to an optional disposal device 10, which is shown schematically in dashed lines in Fig. 2a and Fig. 2b.

[0268] Subsequently, in step x), the outer packaging 2 is transported 190 from the second cutting position. The now opened or height-reduced outer packaging 2 is essentially removed from the cutting device 1 and, for example, transferred back to the conveyor system of the storage and order-picking system. Thus, the present cutting device 1 or the described method enables the height-reduced outer packaging 2, which is adapted to the fill height H and thus volume-optimized, to be closed and shipped, for example, to a customer. Alternatively, the now opened outer packaging 2 can be emptied, for example, at an automated decanting station, with the product W being transferred, for example, into a storage container.

[0269] Finally, it should be noted that the devices depicted may in reality comprise more or fewer components than shown. In some cases, the depicted devices or their components may be shown not to scale and / or enlarged and / or reduced in size.

[0270] Reference symbol list

[0271] Cutting device 8c stop element

[0272] 8d driver

[0273] Outer packaging 1a..21d Side wall 9 Lifting device2 Collar 91 Gripping element 3 Lid 92 Clamping surface 4 Window cutout 93 Clamping projection

[0274] 94 clamping recess

[0275] Conveyor device 1 Inlet conveyor section 10 Disposal s Device2 Cutting module conveyor section H Filling level3 Outlet conveyor section F Conveyor direction 4 Rotating device S, S1..S4 Cutting path

[0276] W Ware a, 4b Cutting module 1 Cutting unit 2 Cutting head 21 Base body 22 Cutting element holder 23 Connection arrangement 3 Cutting element 31,432 Cutting section 33 Penetrating end 4 Buffer 5 Cutting element drive s -

[0277] Device 6 Supporting element 7 Cutting head holder 8 Protective cover 9 Adjusting device

[0278] B ewegung s device 1..53 Linear guide unit

[0279] Detection unit 1 Light barrier 2 Camera system 3 Monitoring sensors

[0280] Control unit 1 electronic memory a presser b positioning device

Claims

P a t e n t a n s p r ü c h e 1. Cutting device (1) for applying a substantially circumferential cutting strip (S) to an outer packaging (2) filled with goods (W) up to a fill level (H), wherein the cutting device (1) is configured to apply a first cutting strip (S1), a second cutting strip (S2), a third cutting strip (S3), and a fourth cutting strip (S4) to the outer packaging (2) such that the first, second, third, and fourth cutting strips (S1..S4) connect to one another and form the circumferential cutting strip (S) to cut off a collar (22) and / or window opening (24), and comprising a first cutting module (4a) comprising two opposing cutting systems, each with a cutting unit (41), wherein the cutting units (41) are movable parallel to a first cutting direction such that the cutting strips (S1..S4) of the cutting strips (S1..S4) are attachable, and wherein the cutting units (41) each have a cutting head (42) and a cutting element (43) mounted on the cutting head (42), characterized in that the cutting device (1) further comprises a control unit (7) for determining a cutting height, which is configured to control the cutting units (41) in such a way that the circumferential cutting path (S) is applied at the cutting height, and a positioning device, which is configured to position the outer packaging (2) for applying the first and second cutting paths (SI, S2) in a first cutting position and for applying the third and fourth cutting paths (S3, S4) in a second cutting position.

2. Cutting device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the outer packaging (2) has several side walls (21a..2 ld) and the cutting device (1) is configured to cut the first cutting path (S1) in a first side wall (21a) of the side walls (21a..2 ld) and the second cutting path (S2) in a second side wall (21b) of the side walls (21a..2 ld) as well as the third cutting path (S3) in a third side wall (21c) of the side walls (21a..2 ld) and the fourth cutting path (S4) in a fourth side wall (2 ld) of the to attach side walls (21a..21d) in order to cut off the collar (22), and the cutting units (41) are movable parallel to the first cutting direction, so that a cutting lane (S1..S4) of the cutting lanes (S1..S4) can be attached to opposite side walls (21a..21d) of the outer packaging (2).

3. Cutting device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the outer packaging (2) has a lid (23) and the cutting device (1) is configured to place the first, second, third and fourth cutting path (S1..S4) in the lid (23) in order to cut off the window opening (24).

4. Cutting device (1) for applying a substantially circumferential cutting strip (S) to side walls (21a..21d) of an outer packaging (2) filled with goods (W) up to a fill level (H), wherein the cutting device (1) is configured to apply a first cutting strip (S1) to a first side wall (21a) of the side walls (21a..2 ld) and a second cutting strip (S2) to a second side wall (21b) of the side walls (21a..2 ld), as well as a third cutting strip (S3) to a third side wall (21c) of the side walls (21a..2 ld) and a fourth cutting strip (S4) to a fourth side wall (2 ld) of the side walls (21a..2 ld), such that the first, second, third and fourth cutting strips (S1..S4) connect to each other and form the circumferential cutting path (S) to cut off a collar (22), and has a first cutting module (4a) comprising two opposing cutting systems, each with a cutting unit (41), wherein the cutting units (41) are movable parallel to a first cutting direction, such that in opposite side walls (21a..2 ld) of the outer packaging (2) a cutting path (S1..S4) of the cutting paths (S1..S4) is attachable, and wherein the cutting units (41) each have a cutting head (42) and a cutting element (43) mounted on the cutting head (42), characterized in that the cutting device (1) further comprises a control unit (7) for determining a cutting height, which is configured to control the cutting units (41) in such a way that the circumferential cutting path (S) is applied at the cutting height, and a positioning device, which is configured to position the outer packaging (2) for applying the first and second cutting paths (SI, S2) in a first. cutting position and to position the third and fourth cutting path (S3, S4) in a second cutting position.

5. Cutting device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the cutting device (1) comprises a conveying device (3) for transporting the outer packaging (2) in a conveying direction (F), wherein the conveying device (3) is configured to move the outer packaging (2) to the first cutting position and / or from the first cutting position to the second cutting position.

6. Cutting device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the cutting device (1) has a second cutting module (4b) which comprises two opposing cutting systems, each with a cutting unit (41), wherein the cutting units are movable parallel to a second cutting direction, so that a cutting path (S) of the cutting paths (S) can be applied in opposite side walls (21a..21d) of the outer packaging (2), wherein the first cutting position is arranged in the area of ​​the first cutting module (4a) and the second cutting position is arranged in the area of ​​the second cutting module (4b).

7. Cutting device (1) according to claims 5 and 6, characterized in that the conveying device (3) is configured to transport the outer packaging (2) from the first cutting module (4a) to the second cutting module (4b) in order to move the outer packaging (2) from the first cutting position to the second cutting position.

8. Cutting device (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that the conveying device (3) between the first and second cutting module (4a, 4b) comprises a buffer device with at least one buffer space on which an outer packaging (2) can be temporarily stored.

9. Cutting device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the first cutting direction and the second cutting direction enclose an angle of 90°.

10. Cutting device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the cutting units (41) are configured to apply the respective cutting path (S) with a penetration depth, wherein the penetration depth corresponds to at least one wall thickness of the respective side wall (21a..21d) and a maximum of 400% of the wall thickness.

11. Cutting device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the cutting systems each have a movement device (5) on which the respective cutting unit (41) is mounted, wherein the control unit (7) is designed to control the movement devices (5).

12. Cutting device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the control unit (7) is configured to control the movement devices (5) in such a way that a receiving width between cutting units (41) of two opposing cutting systems is changed.

13. Cutting device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the second cutting position is rotated by an angle of 90° about a vertical axis to the first cutting position and the conveying device (3) comprises a rotary device (34) to rotate the outer packaging (2) about the vertical axis from the first cutting position to the second cutting position.

14. Cutting device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the cutting device (1) has a detection unit (6) for detecting outer packaging data, wherein the outer packaging data includes an outer packaging identity, an outer packaging dimension and / or the fill level (H).

15. Cutting device (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that the detection unit (6) is connected to the control unit (7) via data technology in order to transmit the outer packaging data to the control unit (7), wherein the control unit (7) is configured to determine the cutting height based on the outer packaging data.

16. Cutting device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the positioning device comprises a vertically movable depressor (8a) which can be positioned from above against the outer packaging (2) in order to fix it between the depressor (8a) and a transport surface of the conveying device (3).

17. Cutting device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the positioning device has at least one positioning unit comprising two opposing positioning means (8b, 8c, 8d), wherein the positioning means (8b, 8c, 8d) form mutually facing support surfaces and the support surfaces are horizontally movable towards each other and can be positioned on opposite side walls (21a..21d) of the outer packaging (2) in order to fix the outer packaging (2) between the support surfaces.

18. Cutting device (1) according to claim 17, characterized in that at least one positioning means is arranged on each of the positioning surfaces, which is designed to create a positive locking and / or friction locking connection between the respective positioning means (8b, 8c, 8d) and the respective side wall (21a..21d).

19. Cutting device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the cutting device (1) further comprises a lifting device (9) which has a vertically movable gripping unit for lifting the collar (22) and / or the window cutout (24) of the outer packaging (2).

20. Cutting device (1) according to claim 19, characterized in that the gripping unit comprises several gripping elements (91).

21. Cutting device (1) according to claim 20, characterized in that at least some of the gripping elements (91) are movably mounted in a horizontal plane.

22. Cutting device (1) according to claim 20 or 21, characterized in that at least some of the gripping elements (91) are designed as clamping grippers.

23. Cutting device (1) according to claim 22, characterized in that the clamping grippers have two clamping surfaces (92) that can be moved towards each other, wherein clamping projections (93) and clamping recesses (94) are arranged on the clamping surfaces (92) which interlock when the clamping surfaces (92) are moved towards each other.

24. Cutting device (1) according to one of claims 20 to 23, characterized in that at least some of the gripping elements (91) are designed as needle grippers and / or as suction grippers.

25. Cutting device (1) according to one of claims 20 to 24, characterized in that the cutting device (1) comprises a disposal device (10) which is arranged in the working area of ​​the lifting device (9), wherein the lifting device (9) is configured to transfer the cut-off collar (22) and / or window cutout (24) to the disposal device.

26. Cutting device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 25, characterized in that the cutting device (1) comprises a monitoring device which has a monitoring sensor for detecting the outer packaging (2) in the first and / or second cutting position and which is configured to issue a fault message if the outer packaging (2) is moved from the respective cutting position during the application of a cutting path (S1..S4) and / or during the removal of a cut collar (22) and / or window cutout (24).

27. Cutting device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 24, characterized in that the control unit (7) is configured to control the cutting units (41) in such a way that two opposing cutting units (41) are moved synchronously to apply the first and second cutting path (S2) and / or are moved synchronously to apply the third and fourth cutting path (S4).

28. Cutting device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 27, characterized in that the cutting systems are designed according to one of claims 29 to 41.

29. Cutting system for an automatically operated cutting device (1) for applying cutting paths (S1..S4), in particular in side walls (21a..21d) and / or a lid (23) of an outer packaging (2), in particular for a cutting device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 28, comprising a movement device (5) and a cutting unit (41) mounted thereon, wherein the cutting unit (41) has a cutting head (42) and a cutting element (43) mounted on the cutting head (42).

30. Cutting system according to claim 29, characterized in that the cutting element (43) is designed to be vertically adjustable.

31. Cutting system according to claim 29 or 30, characterized in that the cutting head (42) is pivotably mounted on the cutting unit (41) about a horizontal axis.

32. Cutting system according to one of claims 29 to 31, characterized in that a cutting edge of the cutting element (43) comprises a first cutting section (431) and a second cutting section (432), wherein the first cutting section (431) is effective when the cutting element (43) is moved in a cutting direction and the second cutting section (432) is effective when the cutting element (43) is moved against the cutting direction.

33. Cutting system according to one of claims 29 to 32, characterized in that the cutting head (42) comprises a connection arrangement (423), a base body (421) arranged on the connection arrangement (423) and a cutting element receptacle (422) arranged on the base body (421) in which the cutting element (43) is mounted.

34. Cutting system according to claim 33, characterized in that the cutting unit (41) comprises a cutting head holder (47), wherein the connection arrangement (423) is arranged on the cutting head holder (47).

35. Cutting system according to claim 34, characterized in that the connecting arrangement (423) is mounted horizontally displaceable on the cutting head holder (47) so that the cutting element (43) can be guided along a cutting path curved in a horizontal plane.

36. Cutting system according to claim 35, characterized in that the connecting arrangement (423) is mounted on the cutting head holder (47) via a return spring, so that the cutting head (42) can be displaced from a first position to a second position by overcoming a spring force of the return spring, whereby the return spring is tensioned, and can be displaced automatically from the second position to the first position by releasing the return spring.

37. Cutting system according to one of claims 29 to 36, characterized in that the cutting head (42) comprises a support element (46) which is attached to a side wall (21a..21d) of an outer packaging (2) is adjustable, wherein a normal distance (N) between a vertical tangent plane of a vertex of the cutting element (43) and an engagement surface of the support element (46) is constant.

38. Cutting system according to one of claims 33 to 37, characterized in that the cutting element receptacle (422) is mounted on the base body (421) of the cutting head (42) via elastic buffers (44).

39. Cutting system according to one of claims 34 to 38, characterized in that the base body (421) is mounted on the connection arrangement (423) via elastic buffers (44).

40. Cutting system according to one of claims 34 to 39, characterized in that the cutting element (43) is movably mounted on the cutting element receptacle (422) and is driven by a cutting element drive device (45) to perform a movement oscillating relative to the cutting head (42) parallel to the cutting direction.

41. Cutting system according to one of claims 34 to 40, characterized in that the cutting element (43) is movably mounted on the cutting element receptacle (422) and is driven by a cutting element drive device (45) to perform a movement oscillating relative to the cutting head (42) orthogonally to the cutting direction.

42. Cutting system according to claim 41, characterized in that the cutting element (43) has a rounded, in particular spherical, penetrating end (433).

43. Cutting system according to one of claims 29 to 42, characterized in that the cutting head (42) comprises a protective cover (48) and an adjusting device (49), wherein the protective cover (48) is movable by means of the adjusting device (49) between a protective position in which an edge of the cutting element (43) is covered by the protective cover (48) and an operating position in which the edge is exposed.

44. Cutting system according to claim 43, characterized in that the adjusting device (49) is designed to adjust the protective cover (48) from the protective position to the operating position when the adjusting device (49) is activated by overcoming a retaining force and automatically from the operating position to the protective position when deactivated.

45. Method for applying a circumferential cutting strip (S) to an outer packaging (2) filled with goods (W) up to a fill level (H), by means of a cutting device (1), in particular by means of a cutting device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 28, comprising the steps: i) providing the outer packaging (2) to the cutting device (1); ii) determining a cutting height at which the circumferential cutting strip (S) is to be applied to the outer packaging (2) by means of a control unit (7); iii) moving the outer packaging (2) into a first cutting position by means of a conveying device (3) and positioning the outer packaging (2) in the first cutting position by means of a positioning device; iv) controlling opposing cutting systems to apply a first pair of cutting strips, comprising a first and second cutting strip (SI, S2), by means of the Control unit (7), wherein the opposing cutting systems each comprise a cutting unit (41) with a cutting element (43) and wherein the cutting elements (43) are aligned at the specified cutting height; v) Attaching, parallel to a cutting direction for attaching the first pair of cutting webs, the first cutting web (S1) in the outer packaging (2) by means of the cutting element (43) of a first cutting system of the opposing cutting systems aligned at the specified cutting height in step iv) for attaching the first pair of cutting webs and the second cutting web (S2) in the outer packaging (2) by means of the cutting element (43) of a second cutting system of the opposing cutting systems aligned at the specified cutting height in step iv) for attaching the first pair of cutting webs;vi) Moving the outer packaging (2) from the first cutting position to a second cutting position, in particular by means of the conveying device (3), and positioning the outer packaging (2) in the second cutting position by means of the positioning device; vii) Controlling opposing cutting systems to apply a second pair of cutting paths, comprising a third and fourth cutting path (S3, S4), by means of the control unit (7), wherein the opposing cutting systems each comprise a cutting unit (41) with each a cutting element (43) and wherein the cutting elements (43) are aligned at the specified cutting height;viii) Applying, parallel to a cutting direction, the second pair of cutting webs, the third cutting web (S3) to the outer packaging (2) by means of the cutting element (43) of a first cutting system of the opposing cutting systems, aligned at the specified cutting height in step vii), to apply the second pair of cutting webs, and the fourth cutting web (S4) to the outer packaging (2) by means of the cutting element (43) of a second cutting system of the opposing cutting systems, aligned at the specified cutting height in step vii), to apply the second pair of cutting webs, such that the first, second, third and fourth cutting webs (S1..S4) form a substantially horizontal circumferential cutting web (S), thereby cutting off a collar (22) or a window section (24) of the outer packaging (2); ix) Removing the cut-off collar (22) or window section (24) of the outer packaging (2); x) Transporting the outer packaging (2) from the second cutting position to the Lifting of the collar (22) or the window section (24) according to step ix) by the conveying device (3).

46. ​​Method according to claim 45, characterized in that in step v) the first cutting web (S1) is applied in a first side wall (21a) of the outer packaging (2) and the second cutting web (S2) is applied in a second side wall (21b) of the outer packaging (2) and in step viii) the third cutting web (S3) is applied in a third side wall (21c) of the outer packaging (2) and the fourth cutting web (S4) is applied in a fourth side wall (21d) of the outer packaging (2).

47. Method according to claim 45 or 46, characterized in that in step v) the first and second cutting lane (SI, S2) and in step viii) the third and fourth cutting lane (S3, S4) are each placed in a lid (23) of the outer packaging (2).

48. Method for applying a circumferential cutting strip (S) to the side walls (21a..21d) of an outer packaging (2) filled with goods (W) up to a fill level (H), by means of a cutting device (1) for applying a substantially circumferential cutting strip (S), in particular by means of a cutting device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 28, comprising the steps: i) providing the outer packaging (2) to the cutting device (1); ii) determining a cutting height at which the circumferential cutting strip (S) is to be applied to the outer packaging (2) by means of a control unit (7); iii) moving the outer packaging (2) into a first cutting position by means of a conveying device (3) and positioning the outer packaging (2) in the first cutting position by means of a positioning device;iv) Control of opposing cutting systems to apply a first pair of cutting paths, comprising a first and second cutting path (SI, S2), by the control unit (7), wherein the opposing cutting systems each comprise a cutting unit (41) with each a cutting element (43) and wherein the cutting elements (43) are aligned at the specified cutting height; v) Applying, parallel to a cutting direction, the first pair of cutting paths (S1) to a first side wall (21a) of the outer packaging (2) by means of the cutting element (43) of a first cutting system of the opposing cutting systems, aligned at the specified cutting height in step iv), to apply the first pair of cutting paths; and the second pair of cutting paths (S2) to a second side wall (21b) of the outer packaging (2) by means of the cutting element (43) of a second cutting system of the opposing cutting systems, aligned at the specified cutting height in step iv), to apply the first pair of cutting paths; vi) Moving the outer packaging (2) from the first cutting position to a second cutting position, in particular by means of the conveying device (3), and positioning the outer packaging (2) in the second cutting position by means of the positioning device;vii) Control of opposing cutting systems to attach a second pair of cutting paths, comprising a third and fourth cutting path (S3, S4), by the control unit (7), wherein the opposing cutting systems each comprise a cutting unit (41) with each a cutting element (43) and wherein the cutting elements (43) are aligned at the specified cutting height;viii) Applying, parallel to a cutting direction, the second pair of cutting paths, the third cutting path (S3) to a third side wall (21c) of the outer packaging (2) by means of the cutting element (43) of a first cutting system of the opposing cutting systems, aligned at the specified cutting height in step vii), to apply the second pair of cutting paths, and the fourth cutting path (S4) to a fourth side wall (21d) of the outer packaging (2) by means of the cutting element (43) of a second cutting system of the opposing cutting systems, aligned at the specified cutting height in step vii), to apply the second pair of cutting paths, such that the first, second, third and fourth cutting paths (S1..S4) form a substantially horizontal circumferential cutting path (S), thereby cutting off a collar (22) of the outer packaging (2); ix) Removing the cut-off collar (22) of the outer packaging (2); x) Transporting the outer packaging (2) from the second cutting position to the Lifting of the collar (22) according to step ix), by the conveying device (3).

49. Method according to one of claims 45 to 48, characterized in that the outer packaging (2) is rotated by an angle of 90° about a vertical axis by means of a rotary device (34) of the conveying device (3) during movement in step vi).

50. Method according to one of claims 45 to 49, characterized in that the same cutting systems are used in steps iv), v), vii) and viii).

51. Method according to one of claims 45 to 49, characterized in that the outer packaging (2) is moved by the conveying device (3) from a first cutting module (4a), comprising the cutting units (41) for applying the first pair of cutting webs, to a second cutting module (4b), comprising the cutting units (41) for applying the second pair of cutting webs.

52. Method according to claim 51, characterized in that steps i) to x) are carried out for a preceding outer packaging (2) and for a subsequent outer packaging (2), wherein step iii) is carried out for the subsequent outer packaging (2) when the first cutting module (4a) is free from the preceding outer packaging (2).

53. Method according to claim 51 or 52, characterized in that steps i) to x) are carried out for a preceding outer packaging (2) and for a subsequent outer packaging (2), wherein step vi) is carried out for the subsequent outer packaging (2) when the second cutting module (4b) is free of the preceding outer packaging (2), or wherein the subsequent outer packaging (2) is temporarily stored in step vi) on a buffer space of a buffer device between the first and second cutting module (4b) until the second cutting module (4b) is free of the preceding outer packaging (2).

54. Method according to one of claims 45 to 53, characterized in that the cutting paths (S1..S2) in steps v) and viii) are with a penetration depth of the respective Cutting element (43) of at least one wall thickness of the respective side wall (21a..2 ld) and a maximum of 400% of the wall thickness.

55. Method according to one of claims 45 to 54, characterized in that determining the cutting height in step ii) comprises capturing outer packaging data by means of a capture unit (6), after which the outer packaging data is transmitted to the control unit (7).

56. Method according to claim 55, characterized in that the outer packaging (2) and / or an outer packaging type is identified in step ii) on the basis of the recorded outer packaging data and outer packaging data assigned to an outer packaging identity and stored in an electronic memory is read out.

57. Method according to claim 55 or 56, characterized in that the outer packaging data includes the filling height (H) and / or an outer packaging dimension and in step ii) the filling height (H) and / or the outer packaging dimension is recorded, after which the cutting height is selected such that it is at least at the same height as the filling height (H) or at a height above the filling height (H) and / or below an upper edge of the outer packaging (2), and / or at the height of the lid (23) of the outer packaging (2).

58. Method according to one of claims 45 to 57, characterized in that the positioning of the outer packaging (2) in steps iii) and / or vi) comprises fixing the outer packaging (2), wherein a vertically movable depressor (8a) of the positioning device is applied from above to the outer packaging (2) in order to fix the outer packaging (2) between the depressor (8a) and a transport surface of the conveying device (3).

59. Method according to one of claims 45 to 58, characterized in that the positioning of the outer packaging (2) in steps iii) and / or vi) comprises fixing the outer packaging (2), wherein opposite side walls (21a..21d) of the outer packaging (2) are clamped between two positioning means (8b, 8c, 8d) of the positioning device.

60. Method according to one of claims 45 to 59, characterized in that the lifting of the cut-off collar (22) or window cutout (24) in step ix) is automated, wherein the collar (22) or the window cutout (24) is grasped by a gripping unit of a lifting device (9) and lifted off by a vertical movement of the gripping unit.

61. Method according to one of claims 45 to 60, characterized in that the removal of the cut-off collar (22) or window cutout (24) in step ix) comprises cutting through areas along the circumferential cutting path (S) which were not cut through when the cutting paths (S1..S4) were applied in steps v) and viii) by tearing.

62. Method according to one of claims 45 to 61, characterized in that the outer packaging (2) is retained during the lifting of the collar (22) or window cutout (24) in step ix).

63. Method according to one of claims 45 to 62, characterized in that the cutting elements (43) of the cutting units (41) are moved in an oscillating manner parallel to the respective cutting direction during the application of the cutting paths (S1..S4).

64. Method according to one of claims 45 to 62, characterized in that the cutting elements (43) of the cutting units (41) are moved in an oscillating manner orthogonal to the respective cutting direction, in particular orthogonal to a surface of the outer packaging (2) to be cut, during the application of the cutting paths (S1..S4). - 11 - 65. Method according to claim 64, characterized in that the cutting elements (43) have a rounded, in particular spherical, penetration end (433), wherein the goods (W) in the outer packaging (2) are pushed away during the application of the cutting strips (S1..S4) when the respective cutting element (43) penetrates the outer packaging (2) through the rounded penetration end (433).

66. Method according to one of claims 45 to 65, characterized in that a cutting edge of the cutting elements (43) is covered by a protective cover (48) in a protective position while the respective cutting unit (41) is not in use, and the protective cover (48) is moved from the protective position to an operating position in which the cutting edge is exposed by activating an actuating device (49), wherein the actuating device (49) is activated when the respective cutting unit (41) is used to apply a cutting path (S1..S4).

67. Method according to one of claims 45 to 66, characterized in that the cutting systems are controlled by the control unit (7) such that Cutting heads (42) of the cutting units (41) for applying the first and second cutting paths (SI, S2) in step v) are moved synchronously parallel to the cutting direction to apply the first pair of cutting paths and Cutting heads (42) of the cutting units (41) for applying the third and fourth cutting paths (S3, S4) in step viii) are moved synchronously parallel to the cutting direction for applying the second pair of cutting paths.

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