Method and device for opening an at least partially flexible outer packaging

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for opening an at least partially pliable outer packaging (20) filled with a content (10), in particular an outer packaging (20) that is at least partially pliable when filled. For opening, the outer packaging (20) is introduced into a processing area (300) of a device (200), and at least one cutting path (26) is applied to an area (22) of the outer packaging (20), wherein the area (22) to be provided with the at least one cutting path (26) is prepared for the application of the at least one cutting path (26) by actively or passively tightening the area (22). The invention further relates to a device (200) for opening an at least partially pliable outer packaging (20) filled with a content (10).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method and a device for opening an at least partially flexible outer packaging. State of the art

[0002] It is known, for example, to ship or transport small technical devices such as mobile phones, batteries or printer cartridges, particularly in a defective or used condition, in a packaging bag as outer packaging. In this case, several small devices can be shipped or transported in a common outer packaging or each in its own outer packaging. In addition, other suitable loose objects can be combined in outer packaging and shipped or transported. In addition, limp or soft or flexible objects such as items of clothing or food can be shipped or transported in outer packaging. Furthermore, it is known to wrap a pliable film around several loose objects and / or around limp, flexible objects, wherein a film wrap formed by the wrapping forms the outer packaging.Such outer packaging can be opened by people using a suitable tool and the contents can be removed from the at least partially flexible outer packaging.

[0003] Devices and methods for applying cutting tracks to outer packaging that is to be opened are generally known. EP 2894017 B1 discloses a device for applying at least one cutting track to a wall of an outer packaging, comprising a support area, a cutting unit, a guide unit, and a positioning unit. The outer packaging is designed as a cardboard box. The support area receives the outer packaging. The cutting unit applies the cutting track to the wall of the outer packaging. The guide unit moves the cutting unit to apply the cutting track. The positioning unit positions and / or fixes the outer packaging in order to prepare the wall to be provided with the cutting track in such a way that the wall is brought into a position and / or a state that is improved for applying the cutting track, at least for cutting.

[0004] DE 10 2011 084 302 A1 discloses a device for removing a sterile object from a foil bag. The device comprises a holding device for holding the foil bag, an ultrasonic cutting device for cutting open the foil bag with an ultrasonic knife, and a removal device for removing the object from the foil bag. Furthermore, a needle unit with a hollow needle for piercing the foil bag and a gas connection on the needle unit for injecting gas into the foil bag via the needle are shown.

[0005] It is desirable to automatically open outer packaging that is designed as at least partially flexible outer packaging, which can hardly or not at all be processed in such devices suitable for rigid cardboard outer packaging. This is especially true if the contents of the outer packaging are to be protected from damage. Disclosure of the invention

[0006] An object of the invention is to provide a method for the at least partially automated opening of at least partially flexible outer packaging, in particular outer packaging that is at least partially flexible in the filled state.

[0007] A further object of the invention is to provide a device for the at least partially automated opening of outer packaging, in particular outer packaging which is at least partially flexible in the filled state.

[0008] The objects are achieved by the features of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments and advantages of the invention emerge from the further claims, the description, and the drawings.

[0009] The features listed individually in the patent claims can be combined with one another in a technologically meaningful manner and can be supplemented by explanatory facts from the description and by details from the figures, whereby further embodiments of the invention are shown.

[0010] According to a first aspect of the invention, a method is proposed for opening an at least partially flexible outer packaging filled with a content, in particular an outer packaging which is at least partially flexible in the filled state, wherein the outer packaging is introduced into a processing area and at least one cutting path is applied to an area of ​​the outer packaging, wherein the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path is prepared by actively or passively tightening the area for applying the at least one cutting path.

[0011] For example, the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path can be prepared or provided in at least one dimension on a fixing arrangement

[0012] A cutting path can be conveniently attached to the tightened surface.

[0013] Passive tightening can be achieved, for example, with a hanging outer packaging. For example, the contents of the at least partially sagging outer packaging can slide downwards in the direction of gravity. Active tightening can be achieved, for example, by selectively applying suction to the outer packaging arranged in the processing area or by selectively securing the outer packaging arranged in the processing area.

[0014] When actively tightening a cutting surface of the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path, the cutting surface of the tightened area can, for example, be pulled away from the contents of the outer packaging.

[0015] Optionally, the outer packaging can be fixed in the processing area with a fixing arrangement for processing, in particular for tightening.

[0016] Advantageously, an at least partially automated method for opening the at least partially flexible outer packaging can be provided for companies that open such outer packaging.

[0017] At least partially flexible outer packaging is understood below to mean a bag-like or sack-like, particularly flexible, outer packaging that encloses the contents arranged loosely or movably within the outer packaging. The outer packaging can be a bag or shipping pouch and can be made of paper, cardboard, plastic, bamboo, fabric, or the like.

[0018] Such a flexible outer packaging is dimensionally unstable and exhibits low tensile stiffness and a low modulus of elasticity. Therefore, such an outer packaging preforms significantly even under low force and moment loads.

[0019] Optionally, areas of the outer packaging can be reinforced or stiffened with a stiffening element, such as corrugated cardboard. In this case, at least one non-reinforced or stiffened area of ​​the outer packaging remains flexible. Typically, the outer packaging does not include any reinforcements and is therefore almost completely flexible.

[0020] Optionally, the at least partially flexible outer packaging can also be a film wrap that encloses a product. The product can consist of several parts, which can be of the same size or different sizes.

[0021] In the following, a cutting surface is understood to be a surface that is as flat as possible in the area to be provided with the cutting path. This cutting surface can be taut so that the cutting surface does not, or only slightly, deflect or yield upon contact with the at least one cutting element. This can facilitate cutting in the area to be provided with the cutting path and create a more precise cutting path.

[0022] The method according to the invention for opening an at least partially flexible outer packaging can reduce the probability that the contents enclosed by the at least partially flexible outer packaging will be damaged when opening the at least partially flexible outer packaging. Furthermore, at least one method step of the method for opening the at least partially flexible outer packaging can be carried out automatically, thereby reducing the time required to open at least partially flexible outer packaging.

[0023] In addition, an at least partially automated process can reduce personnel costs. Likewise, the risk of injury from handling a cutting tool is reduced or even eliminated.

[0024] The outer packaging can be processed lying down and / or floating and / or hanging and / or clamped and / or suctioned. Optionally, the outer packaging can also be processed freely in the room.

[0025] The contents of the outer packaging can be any commercially available goods, such as clothing, which must not be cut, for example in an incoming goods area, when returning such goods and the like.

[0026] The contents of the outer packaging may also be goods that may be cut into because they are intended for disposal and / or recycling.

[0027] According to a favorable embodiment of the method, at least for applying the at least one cutting path, at least one cutting surface suitable for cutting can be prepared or provided on the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path by securing the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path in at least one dimension to a fixing arrangement. This is particularly advantageous for bag-like outer packaging.

[0028] According to a favorable embodiment of the method, a gas can be introduced into the outer packaging to tighten the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path and / or to lift the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path from the contents of the outer packaging. The gas can cause the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path to bulge outwards. In this case, the gas can advantageously additionally tighten the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path. If this area is tightened by at least one fixing element, for example a rail and / or a point clamp or the like, the area can be additionally tightened. In addition, the gas can be introduced into the at least partially flexible outer packaging before fixing by the at least one fixing element, so that the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path can be pre-tightened.

[0029] Furthermore, the gas can be used as an alternative to the at least one fixing element for tightening the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path. The gas introduced into the at least partially flexible outer packaging can additionally reduce the pressure of at least the cutting surface on the contents, thus increasing the contents' freedom of movement. This can further reduce the likelihood of the contents being damaged during cutting. The gas can be, for example, air or an inert gas.

[0030] In particular, according to a favorable embodiment of the method, the outer packaging can be penetrated by at least one nozzle for introducing the gas. This allows for a simple and effective introduction of the gas into the outer packaging.

[0031] According to a favorable embodiment of the method, the tightness of the at least partially flexible outer packaging can be checked before introducing the gas or before applying the at least one cutting line. A leaky outer packaging can be sorted out and opened using another suitable method.

[0032] This can prevent or at least make it more difficult for the contents to be damaged because no suitable cutting surface can be created by introducing the gas into the leaky, pliable outer packaging, or because the pressure of at least the cutting surface on the contents of the at least partially pliable, leaky outer packaging cannot be reduced by introducing the gas.

[0033] In particular, according to a favorable embodiment of the method, the tightness can be checked by introducing the gas. By introducing the gas, overfilling of the at least partially flexible outer packaging can also be detected. Furthermore, it is a simple way to check the tightness of the at least partially flexible outer packaging.

[0034] According to a favorable embodiment of the method, in order to tighten the at least one cutting surface of the region to be provided with the at least one cutting path, this region can be fixed, in particular tensioned, with at least one fixing element. The at least one fixing element can stretch the material of the region to be provided with the at least one cutting path.

[0035] The at least one fixing element can create a uniform cutting surface or multiple uniform cutting surfaces for different, at least partially flexible outer packaging. Optionally, at least two fixing elements can be provided, which can clamp and tighten the material of the area to be provided with the cutting path between them. Furthermore, the dimensions of the at least one fixing element and / or the number of the multiple fixing elements and / or the spacing of the fixing elements from one another can easily vary the dimensions of the cutting surface and adapt them to specifications.

[0036] According to a favorable embodiment of the method, the area tensioned and / or tightened by the at least one fixing element and to be provided with the at least one cutting path can be lifted or at least moved away from the contents, in particular before the at least one cutting path is applied.

[0037] In this case, the pressure exerted by at least the at least one cutting surface of the outer packaging on the contents enclosed by the outer packaging can be reduced. In a favorable embodiment of the method according to the invention, the at least one cutting track can be attached to an upper side of the outer packaging, wherein the contents can be moved away from the area to be provided with the at least one cutting track and thus away from the at least one cutting surface by the lifting of the area to be provided with the at least one cutting track by gravity. In addition, the delimitation of the cutting surface tightened by the at least one fixing element can be improved by additional tightening of the area to be provided with the at least one cutting track by the contents moved by gravity.

[0038] According to a favorable embodiment of the method, the contents of the outer packaging can be at least partially loosened, in particular shaken, before being secured and / or before cutting. This allows the area intended for cutting to be selectively separated from the contents or at least relieved of pressure.

[0039] According to a favorable embodiment of the method, the pressure exerted by at least one cutting surface of the outer packaging on the contents enclosed by the outer packaging can be at least reduced. This allows the contents' degrees of freedom of movement to be increased, allowing the contents to better evade the at least one cutting element penetrating the at least one cutting surface. This can prevent or at least impede damage to the contents by the at least one cutting element.

[0040] If the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path is clamped in the fixing arrangement, the contents of the outer packaging can move away from the clamped area, for example, due to the effect of gravity, particularly in the case of a hanging outer packaging. Alternatively, the contents of the outer packaging can be moved away from the clamped area by a suitable element.

[0041] According to a favorable embodiment of the method, the area can be defined by clamping the area to be provided with the cutting path in the fixing arrangement. In particular, the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path can be defined by clamping an edge area of ​​the outer packaging. Advantageously, the outer packaging can be gripped at an edge or side and clamped between two clamping elements. In this case, the area between the clamping elements can alternatively also be additionally clamped. Alternatively, a clamping bar or another suitable clamping element can grip an edge or side, and the alternative additional clamping can be achieved through the effect of gravity. This is advantageous for, for example, square outer packaging that can be clamped at a side edge or a top edge.The outer packaging can, for example, lie on a receiving surface of the fixing arrangement or hang in the fixing arrangement. A cutting path can be applied along the at least one clamping element. The outer packaging can be cut through partially at the clamping point or over the entire length of the clamped area. The at least one cutting element can be easily guided along the clamping element. The outer packaging is securely fixed during the cutting process, allowing a clean cut along the desired cutting path.

[0042] Alternatively, the area can be defined by suctioning the outer packaging, in particular the area to be provided with the cutting path, into the fixing arrangement, in particular by suctioning an edge area of ​​the outer packaging. The outer packaging can, for example, lie on a receiving surface of the fixing arrangement or hang in the fixing arrangement.

[0043] According to a favorable embodiment of the method, at least one cutting element can act on the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path for applying the at least one cutting path. Optionally, the at least one cutting element can act on the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path from above, from below, or from the side.

[0044] This results in different implementations of the method, which can be adapted to different specifications. For example, a cutting element acting from below on the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path can apply at least one cutting path to an underside of the at least partially flexible outer packaging, wherein an opening can be created on the underside of the at least partially flexible outer packaging. As a result, the at least partially flexible outer packaging can be easily emptied through this opening by the effect of gravity. If the at least one cutting element acts from above on the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path, the at least one cutting path is applied to the top side of the at least partially flexible outer packaging, wherein the opening can be created on the top side of the at least partially flexible outer packaging.The contents can more easily evade the at least one cutting element during cutting due to, among other things, the force of gravity. This can reduce the likelihood of the contents being damaged during cutting. Furthermore, the opening created at the top can make unintentional emptying of the at least partially flexible outer packaging more difficult or even impossible. Optionally, the cutting line can also be attached to a lateral area of ​​the at least partially flexible outer packaging that is to be provided with the at least one cutting line.

[0045] When the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path is fixed by clamping or suctioning this area in the fixing arrangement, the outer packaging can be cut through at the clamping seam or suction seam.

[0046] According to a favorable embodiment of the method, at least two intersecting cutting paths can be applied to the area of ​​the outer packaging to be provided with the at least one cutting path. The cutting surface of this area can be additionally streamlined. The length of the at least two cutting paths and the angle of the at least two cutting paths relative to one another allow for easy implementation of different dimensions of the resulting opening.

[0047] In particular, according to a favorable embodiment of the method, the at least two intersecting cutting paths can be applied successively to the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path. This prevents the corresponding cutting elements from interfering with each other.

[0048] According to a favorable embodiment of the method, a tilting device and / or rotating device can tilt and / or rotate the cut-open outer packaging with the area provided with the at least one cutting path. As a result, the contents of the outer packaging can be removed from the outer packaging through the opening created by the at least one cutting path and, if necessary, transported away. The emptied outer packaging can also be removed, and another outer packaging can be introduced into the processing area of ​​the device for opening the outer packaging. The tilting device and / or rotating device can be combined with the fixing arrangement or be an integral part thereof.

[0049] Optionally, the tilting device and / or rotating device can be used for a lying outer packaging in order to erect it for applying the at least one cutting track.

[0050] According to a further aspect of the invention, a device is proposed for opening an at least partially flexible outer packaging filled with contents, in particular an outer packaging that is flexible when filled. The device is suitable for carrying out the method according to the first aspect of the invention. The device has a processing area which comprises at least one cutting arrangement, wherein the at least one cutting path is applied to an area of ​​the outer packaging to be provided with the at least one cutting path. A tightening arrangement is provided which is designed to produce at least one cutting surface on an area to be provided with the at least one cutting path by actively or passively tightening the area, at least for applying the at least one cutting path.

[0051] The tightening arrangement is advantageously designed to produce at least one cutting surface on the flexible region to be provided with the at least one cutting path by actively tightening the flexible region, at least for applying the at least one cutting path.

[0052] Advantageously, an at least partially automated device for opening at least partially flexible outer packaging can be provided for companies that open at least partially flexible outer packaging.

[0053] The device according to the invention for opening an at least partially flexible outer packaging can reduce the probability that the contents enclosed by the at least partially flexible outer packaging will be damaged when the at least partially flexible outer packaging is opened. Furthermore, at least one method step of the method for opening the at least partially flexible outer packaging can be carried out automatically, thereby reducing the time required to open the at least partially flexible outer packaging. Furthermore, personnel costs can be reduced by the device according to the invention. Likewise, the risk of injury to employees and / or staff resulting from handling a cutting tool is reduced.

[0054] According to a favorable embodiment of the device, the processing area can have at least one fixing arrangement. The fixing arrangement can securely fix the outer packaging in the processing area. Advantageously, the tightening arrangement and / or the cutting arrangement can be integrated with the fixing arrangement.

[0055] According to a favorable embodiment of the device, the fixing arrangement can have a suction device which is designed to produce at least one cutting surface on the area to be provided with the cutting path by sucking the area, at least for applying the cutting path.

[0056] According to a favorable embodiment of the device, the fixing arrangement can have a holding device, in particular a clamping device, which is designed to produce at least one cutting surface on the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path by clamping the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path, at least for attaching the cutting path.

[0057] The holding device is advantageously designed to produce at least one suitable cutting surface on the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path by actively fixing the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path, at least for applying the at least one cutting path.

[0058] According to a favorable embodiment of the device, the cutting arrangement can have at least one cutting element movably mounted along the at least one cutting surface. A movably mounted cutting element can easily create a cutting path on the cutting surface.

[0059] In particular, according to a favorable embodiment of the device, the at least one cutting element can be resiliently mounted. This allows the at least one cutting element to yield when the at least one cutting element encounters a resistance that is greater than the resistance of the at least one corresponding cutting surface.

[0060] This can prevent or at least make it more difficult for the at least one cutting element to damage the contents of the at least partially flexible outer packaging during the cutting of the corresponding cutting surface.

[0061] According to a favorable embodiment of the device, the tightening arrangement can have at least one fixing element, between which at least one section of the area to be provided with the cutting path, forming the at least one cutting surface, can be fixed, in particular tensioned. As a result, the at least one cutting surface can be created on the at least one fixing element.

[0062] Optionally, at least two fixing elements can be provided which can clamp the area to be provided with the cutting path between them, so that the at least one cutting surface is created between the at least two fixing elements. The fixing elements can be designed as gripping elements such as clamps and / or clamping elements and / or as suction cups or as other suitable elements. By means of at least two fixing elements, a simple and effective tightening of the section of the area to be provided with the cutting path between the at least two fixing elements can be implemented. In addition, the dimensions of the at least one cutting surface can be easily varied and adapted to specifications by means of the dimensions of the fixing elements and / or the number of fixing elements and / or the spacing between a plurality of fixing elements and / or the arrangement of the fixing elements relative to one another.Furthermore, the at least one fixing element fixes the area to be provided with the cutting path during cutting. The at least one fixing element thereby prevents the at least partially flexible outer packaging from slipping during the introduction of the at least one cutting path. As a result, the at least one fixing element of the tightening arrangement can also correspond to the at least one fixing element of the fixing arrangement. In addition, the fixing arrangement can have further fixing elements that fix the at least partially flexible outer packaging in a predetermined position at another suitable area or in other suitable areas during cutting.

[0063] In particular, according to a favorable embodiment of the device, the at least one fixing element can be operatively connected, in particular, to an upper side of the at least partially flexible outer packaging. As a result, the at least one cutting surface and the corresponding at least one cutting path can be attached to the upper side of the at least partially flexible outer packaging. As a result, a corresponding opening can be created in the at least partially flexible outer packaging at the upper side, thereby preventing the contents from accidentally falling out, for example when cutting the cutting surface. The contents can escape downwards or to the sides of the corresponding at least one cutting element, thereby preventing or at least making it more difficult to damage the contents.

[0064] According to a favorable embodiment of the device, the at least one fixing element can be mounted so as to be movable in the vertical direction and can, in particular, lift at least the at least one cutting surface against the force of gravity. Due to the acting force of gravity, the contents in the at least partially flexible outer packaging can be moved away from the at least one cutting surface and a distance between the cutting surface and the contents can be increased. In addition, pressure from at least the at least one cutting surface on the contents can be reduced by lifting the at least one cutting surface. Due to the increased distance between the contents and the at least one cutting surface and / or the reduced pressure on the contents, damage to the contents by the at least one cutting element can be made more difficult or avoided.

[0065] According to a favorable embodiment of the device, at least two fixing elements can be provided, and at least one cutting element of the cutting arrangement can be movable between the at least two fixing elements. Since the at least one cutting surface is created between the at least two fixing elements, the cutting path can be applied to the cutting surface by guiding the at least one cutting element between the at least two fixing elements.

[0066] According to a favorable embodiment of the device, the processing area, in particular the fixing arrangement, can comprise at least one nozzle having a tip penetrating the outer packaging and directing a gas into the outer packaging. The gas directed into the at least partially flexible outer packaging can bulge the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path outward, whereby a section already tightened and fixed by the at least one fixing element can be further tightened.Additionally or optionally, by outwardly curving the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path, the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path can be prepared for fixing and tightening by the at least one fixing element, for example by smoothing out existing folds in the at least partially flexible outer packaging, whereby the subsequent tightening by the at least one fixing element can be facilitated.

[0067] Optionally, by outwardly curving the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path, tightening the area to be provided with the cutting path by the at least one fixing element can be omitted, since the area to be provided with the at least one cutting path can already be sufficiently tightened by the curving. In this case, the at least partially flexible outer packaging can optionally be fixed by one or more fixing elements to prevent slipping during cutting.

[0068] In particular, according to a favorable embodiment of the device, the at least one nozzle can be mounted so as to be movable in the direction of the outer packaging, wherein the at least one nozzle can be mounted in a resilient manner. The movement of the at least one nozzle in the direction of the outer packaging can facilitate penetration of the at least partially flexible outer packaging. The resilient mounting of the at least one nozzle allows the at least one nozzle to yield if it encounters a resistance which is greater than the resistance of the at least partially flexible outer packaging. This can prevent or at least make it more difficult for the at least one nozzle to damage the contents while penetrating the at least partially flexible outer packaging.

[0069] According to a favorable embodiment of the device, a support surface can have at least one opening for the at least one cutting element and at least one opening for the at least one nozzle.

[0070] In this case, the at least one cutting element and the at least one nozzle can be guided through the corresponding opening. For example, the at least one cutting element can be guided along the opening in order to apply the cutting path to the area of ​​the outer packaging adjacent to the opening. Furthermore, the at least one cutting element and / or the at least one nozzle can be arranged below the support surface or within a body forming the support surface in a non-use position, whereby damage to the at least one cutting element and the at least one nozzle in the non-use position can be made more difficult or avoided. Furthermore, the risk of injury to a user can be reduced.

[0071] Due to the movable mounting, the at least one cutting element and the at least one nozzle can be transferred from the non-use position into a use position, wherein the at least one cutting element and the at least one nozzle protrude from the support surface in the use position. The support surface can be arranged on an underside and / or on an upper side of the at least partially flexible outer packaging. At least one fixing element of the fixing arrangement can fix the at least partially flexible outer packaging, for example, in an area opposite the support surface. Furthermore, an embodiment is conceivable in which the at least one nozzle penetrates a different area of ​​the at least partially flexible outer packaging than the at least one cutting element.

[0072] According to a favorable embodiment of the device, an inspection area can comprise at least one nozzle having at least one tip penetrating the outer packaging and directing a gas into the outer packaging. In the inspection area, it can be checked whether the at least partially pliable outer packaging is suitable for processing in the processing area. For example, it can be checked whether the at least partially pliable outer packaging is leak-tight and / or not overfilled. In this case, the processing area can also comprise the inspection area. Unsuitable, in particular leaky and / or overfilled, at least partially pliable outer packaging can be sorted out automatically or manually.

[0073] In particular, according to a favorable embodiment of the device, the fixing arrangement can fix the at least partially flexible outer packaging during the introduction of the gas and / or during the cutting process. This prevents the at least partially flexible outer packaging from slipping during the cutting process and during the introduction of the gas, thereby ensuring consistent quality of the applied cutting path.

[0074] According to a favorable embodiment of the device, at least one fixing element of the fixing arrangement can lift an area opposite the created opening of the at least partially flexible outer packaging against the force of gravity.

[0075] In a favorable embodiment, the opening is arranged on the underside of the at least partially flexible outer packaging, so that the contents can be shaken out of the opening by lifting and optionally by an upward and downward movement and / or a shaking movement of the at least one fixing element.

[0076] According to a favorable embodiment of the device, a tilting device and / or rotating device can be provided which tilts and / or rotates the cut-open outer packaging for emptying the outer packaging with the area provided with the at least one cutting path.

[0077] This allows the contents of the outer packaging to be removed from the outer packaging and, if necessary, transported away. The emptied outer packaging can also be removed, and another outer packaging can be introduced into the processing area of ​​the device for opening the outer packaging. The outer packaging can, for example, be rotated or tilted about its longitudinal or transverse axis. The tilting device and / or rotating device can be combined with the fixing arrangement or be an integral part thereof.

[0078] Optionally, the tilting device can be used for a lying outer packaging to upright it for processing. drawing

[0079] Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The figures illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention. The figures, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. Those skilled in the art will also expediently consider the features individually and combine them into useful further combinations.

[0080] Examples include: Fig. 1 is a sectional view along a longitudinal axis of a first embodiment of a device according to the invention for opening an at least partially flexible outer packaging, during introduction of the at least partially flexible outer packaging into a processing area; Fig. 2 is a sectional view along the longitudinal axis of the device from Figure 1 during the formation of a cutting surface on the at least partially flexible outer packaging; Fig. 3 a sectional view along a transverse axis of the device from Figure 2, during the formation of the cutting surface on the fixed, at least partially flexible outer packaging; Fig. 4 a sectional view along the longitudinal axis of the device from the Figures 1 to 3 , during the application of a cutting path into the at least partially flexible outer packaging; Fig. 5 a sectional view of the at least partially flexible outer packaging from the Figures 1 to 4 in an opened state; Fig. 6 a sectional view along a longitudinal axis of a checking area of ​​a further embodiment of the device according to the invention for opening an at least partially flexible outer packaging during introduction into the checking area and during fixing of the at least partially flexible outer packaging; Fig. 7 a sectional view along the longitudinal axis of the checking area of Figure 6, during the introduction of a gas into the at least partially flexible outer packaging; Fig. 8 a sectional view along a longitudinal axis of a first processing area of ​​the second embodiment of the device according to the invention during the fixing of the at least partially flexible outer packaging and during the formation of a cutting surface; Fig. 9 a sectional view along the longitudinal axis of the first processing area of Figure 8 , during the application of a cutting path into the at least partially flexible outer packaging; Fig. 10 a sectional view along the longitudinal axis of a second processing area of ​​the second embodiment of the device according to the invention during the fixing of the at least partially flexible outer packaging and during the formation of several cutting surfaces; Fig. 11 a sectional view along the longitudinal axis of the second processing area of Figure 10with the at least partially flexible outer packaging from the Figures 6 to 10 in an opened and emptied state; Fig. 12 shows a sectional view of a detail of a further embodiment of a device according to the invention for opening an at least partially flexible outer packaging in a lying position; Fig. 13 shows a sectional view of the outer packaging according to Figure 12 in upright position; Fig. 14 a front view of the outer packaging according to Figure 12 in an upright position; Fig. 15 shows a sectional view of a detail of a further embodiment of a device according to the invention for opening an at least partially flexible outer packaging in a lying position; Fig. 16 shows a front view of the outer packaging according to Figure 15 in upright position; Fig. 17-21 schematically several positions when handling the outer packaging after Figure 15 . Embodiments of the invention

[0081] In the figures, components of the same type or function similarly are designated by the same reference numerals. The figures are merely examples and are not to be understood as limiting.

[0082] Before describing the invention in detail, it should be noted that it is not limited to the specific components of the device and the specific method steps, as these components and methods may vary. The terms used herein are intended solely to describe particular embodiments and are not intended to be limiting. Furthermore, when the singular or indefinite articles are used in the description or claims, this also refers to the plural of these elements, unless the overall context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0083] Directional terminology used below, including terms such as "top" or "bottom," is intended solely to enhance understanding of the figures and is in no way intended to limit the scope of the invention. The components and elements depicted, as well as their design and use, may vary within the scope of the art and may be adapted to specific applications.

[0084] Figures 1 to 4 represent a first embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention for opening an at least partially flexible outer packaging 20 during different method steps.

[0085] Figures 6 to 11 represent a second embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention for opening an at least partially flexible outer packaging 20 during different method steps.

[0086] As can be seen from the Figures 1 to 4As can be seen, the first embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention for opening an at least partially flexible outer packaging 20, in particular an outer packaging 20 which is flexible in the filled state, comprises a processing area 300 which comprises a fixing arrangement 310, a tightening arrangement 320 and a cutting arrangement 330.

[0087] In the illustrated first embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention, the outer packaging 20 to be opened, which is at least partially flexible, rests with an underside on a support surface 202 after being introduced into the processing area 300.

[0088] In the illustrated first embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention, a cutting path 26 is applied to a region 22 of the upper side of the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20 that is to be provided with at least one cutting path 26.

[0089] In an alternative embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention, the cutting path 26 can also be applied to a region 22 of the underside of the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20 that is to be provided with the cutting path 26. Furthermore, more than one cutting path 26 can be applied to the flexible region 22.

[0090] In a further alternative embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention, the cutting path 26 can also be attached to an area 22 to be provided with the cutting path 26 on the side of the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20.

[0091] As can be seen from the Figures 1 to 4As can be further seen, four fixing elements 312 of the fixing arrangement 310 face the top side of the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20 to be opened. In an alternative, not shown, embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention, the fixing arrangement 310 can have a different suitable number of fixing elements 312; moreover, the fixing elements 312 can face other regions of the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20.

[0092] As can be seen from the Figures 1 to 4As can be further seen, the cutting arrangement 330 comprises a cutting element 332, which faces the top side of the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20 to be opened. In the illustrated embodiment of the cutting arrangement 330, the cutting element 332 is designed as a knife or as a sharp point. However, other suitable designs of the cutting element 332 are also feasible. Furthermore, more than one cutting element 332 is conceivable.

[0093] In the illustrated embodiment of the cutting arrangement 330, the cutting element 332 is resiliently mounted. In this case, a spring arrangement is arranged in a housing 336. The cutting element 332 can be pressed into or retracted through an opening in the housing 336 if the pressure on the cutting element 332 exceeds a predetermined threshold. The cutting element 332 can be moved out of the housing 336 through the opening in the housing 336 if the pressure on the cutting element 332 falls below the predetermined threshold. The threshold for the pressure on the cutting element 332 can be exceeded if the cutting element 332 impacts a content 10 arranged in the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20. The housing 336 is moved together with the cutting element 332 via a guide element 334 designed as a rail.In the illustrated embodiment of the cutting assembly 330, the cutting element 332 is moved along a straight path in the transverse direction, but other movement paths are also feasible. In a further alternative embodiment of the cutting assembly 330, the cutting assembly 330 can have more than one cutting element 332. Multiple cutting elements can be moved one after the other or together along their movement path. Furthermore, in an alternative embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention, the cutting element 332 or the cutting elements 332 can face an underside of the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20.

[0094] As can be seen from the Figures 1 to 4As can be further seen, the tightening arrangement 320 in the illustrated embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention comprises four fixing elements 322 and two frames 324. The two frames 324 each enclose two fixing elements 322 and are arranged parallel to one another. In addition, the two frames 324 are spaced apart from one another. As can be seen from Figure 3 As can be seen, a gap 325 is formed between the frames 324, which is arranged in alignment with the cutting element 332. In the illustrated first embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention, the fixing elements 312 of the fixing arrangement 310 are the same as the fixing elements 322 of the tightening arrangement 320. The fixing elements 322, 312 are designed as suction cups in the illustrated first embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention. However, other fixing elements 322, 312 are also conceivable.

[0095] In an alternative, not shown, embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention, the fixation arrangement 310 can have additional fixation elements 312 that are not used for tightening. Furthermore, the tightening arrangement 320 can have a different suitable number of fixation elements 322, wherein the tightening arrangement 320 has at least two fixation elements 322.

[0096] As can be seen from the Figures 1 to 4As can also be seen, the tightening arrangement 320 is movably mounted in the vertical direction by a lifting device 326. The lifting device 326 moves the frames 324 and the fixing elements 322 for creating the cutting surface 24 in the direction of the upper side of the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20. In a fixing position, the undersides of the frames 324 rest on the upper side of the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20, and the fixing elements 312, 322 are engaged with the upper side of the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20. The fixing elements 312, 322 engaged with the upper side of the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20 suck up corresponding sections of the area 22 to be provided with the cutting path 26.In this case, a section of the area 22 to be provided with the cutting path 26 is tightened at the gap 325 between the frames 324, so that the cutting surface 24 is created at the gap 325 between the two frames 324.

[0097] As can be seen from the Figures 3 and 4 As can be further seen, the guide element 334 guides the cutting element 332 through the gap 325 and through the cutting surface 24. In an alternative, not shown embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention, the tightening arrangement 320 can have more than two frames 324. In addition, an embodiment without a frame 324 is conceivable, wherein the at least one cutting element 332 can be guided between the at least two fixing elements 322 of the tightening arrangement 320.

[0098] As can be seen from the Figures 2 to 4As can be further seen, the lifting device 326 lifts the tightening arrangement 320 into a cutting position. In doing so, the lifting device 326 lifts the fixing elements 322 engaged with the upper side together with the at least one cutting surface 24 against the force of gravity. As a result, at least the cutting surface 24 moves away from the contents 10, whereby a distance can be created between the cutting element 332 and the contents 10 of the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20. As can be seen from Figures 2 to 4 As can be further seen, in the illustrated first embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention, the lifting device 326 lifts the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20 completely from the support surface 202. As a result, gravity can move the contents 10 even further away from the cutting surface 24 and the cutting element 332.

[0099] As can be seen from the Figures 1 to 4As can be further seen, the cutting assembly 330 in the illustrated first embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention is mounted movably in the vertical direction together with the tightening assembly 320 by the lifting device 326 and is moved in the vertical direction together with the tightening assembly 320. In an alternative embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention (not shown), the cutting assembly 330 can be designed to be immovable in the vertical direction. In this case, the lifting device 316 guides the tightening assembly 320 with the cutting surface 24 to the corresponding cutting element 332. In a further alternative embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention (not shown), the cutting assembly 330 can be moved in the vertical direction independently of the tightening assembly 320 by a suitable lifting device 326. The fixing elements 312 can Figure 5shown opened outer packaging 20 after cutting, whereby the opened outer packaging 20 falls onto the support surface 202.

[0100] Alternatively, the tightening arrangement 320 with the opened outer packaging 20 can be moved by the lifting device 326 in the direction of the support surface 202, wherein the fixing elements 312 only release the opened outer packaging 20 when the outer packaging 20 rests on the support surface 202.

[0101] The opened outer packaging 20 can be moved away from the processing area 300 by a user or by a suitable transport arrangement, such as a conveyor belt or a gripper arm. Furthermore, the opened outer packaging 20 can be emptied manually or by a suitable device.

[0102] The tightening arrangement 320 of the first embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention may additionally comprise at least one nozzle 328 (not shown). Such a nozzle 328 is shown in Figure 8shown. The nozzle 328 has a tip penetrating the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20 and directs a gas into the outer packaging 20. The tip can face the top side or the bottom side or a side region of the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20. The at least one nozzle 328 can be movably mounted in the direction of the outer packaging 20, wherein the at least one nozzle 328 can be elastically mounted. A suitable device moves the at least one nozzle 328 in the direction of the outer packaging 20 to fill the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20. The support surface 202 can, for example, have at least one opening for the nozzle 328.By admitting the gas into the outer packaging 20, the flexible region 22 can be prepared for tensioning by the fixing elements 312, 322, for example by smoothing out folds of the flexible region 22 before the fixing elements 312, 322 are brought into engagement with the upper side of the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20.

[0103] In a further alternative, not shown, embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention, instead of lifting the cutting surface 24 of the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20 by the lifting device 326, the gas can be directed into the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20. Filling the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20 with the gas can prevent or impede damage to the contents 10 during cutting by the cutting element 332. The at least partially flexible outer packaging 20 remains on the support surface 202 during cutting.

[0104] As can be seen from the Figures 6 to 11 As can be seen, the illustrated second embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention has three stations. One, in the Figures 6 and 7 The first station shown comprises a checking area 400, a Figures 8 and 9The second station shown comprises a first processing area 300 and a Figures 10 and 11 The third station shown comprises a second processing area 300. In an alternative, not shown, embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention, at least two of the stations can be combined into one station. In a further alternative, not shown, embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention, the first station and / or the third station or the inspection area 400 and / or the second processing area 300 can be omitted.

[0105] In the inspection area 400, it is checked whether the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20 is suitable for the second station and the first processing area 300. Outer packaging 20 with leaks or overfilled outer packaging 20 are not suitable in the illustrated embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention.

[0106] As can be seen from the Figures 6 and 7As can be further seen, the inspection area 400 for checking the at least partially pliable outer packaging 20, in particular an outer packaging 20 that is pliable in the filled state, comprises a fixing arrangement 310 with a plurality of fixing elements 312 that are mounted so as to be movable in the vertical direction. In the illustrated embodiment of the inspection area 400, the at least partially pliable outer packaging 20 to be checked rests with an underside on a support surface 202 after being introduced into the inspection area 400. The fixing elements 312 press in a fixing position directly onto the top side of the at least partially pliable outer packaging 20, so that the outer packaging 20 is fixed in the fixed position between the fixing elements 312 and the support surface 202.

[0107] The fixing elements 312 can optionally be coupled to a foam cushion (not shown) that has a contact surface on its underside. The fixing elements 312 press the contact surface of the foam cushion onto the upper side of the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20. Other suitable elements are also conceivable instead of a foam cushion. The fixing elements 312 can optionally be elastically mounted.

[0108] In a further alternative embodiment of the inspection area 400, the outer packaging 20 can rest with its underside on a movably mounted support surface 202 after being introduced into the inspection area 400, wherein the movably mounted support surface 202 is moved in the direction of the fixing elements 312 and / or the nozzles 420 arranged opposite the support surface 202. In a further alternative embodiment of the inspection area 400, the fixing elements 312 can also be movably mounted in the transverse or longitudinal direction, wherein the fixing elements 312 press the outer packaging 20 laterally against a suitable support surface.

[0109] As can be seen from the Figures 6 and 7As can further be seen, the inspection area 400 comprises a plurality of nozzles 420 which can be moved by a suitable device in the direction of the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20. In the illustrated embodiment of the inspection area 400, the tips of the nozzles 420 pierce the underside of the outer packaging 20 and direct a gas into the outer packaging 20. The support surface 202 has openings through which the nozzles 420 are moved in the direction of the outer packaging 20. After the filling process, the nozzles 420 move back to a rest position. The nozzles 420 are elastically mounted in the illustrated embodiment of the inspection area 400. If a user or a sensor arrangement determines that the outer packaging 20 is not filling sufficiently with gas, the outer packaging 20 is rejected. If the outer packaging 20 can be filled with gas, it is sufficiently tight and the contents 10 have sufficient freedom of movement.

[0110] The suitable outer packaging 20 is transported to the second station. The outer packaging 20 can be transported by the user or by a suitable transport arrangement, such as a conveyor belt or a gripper arm.

[0111] As can be seen from the Figures 8 and 9 As can be further seen, the outer packaging 20 rests with its underside on a support surface 202 after being introduced into the first processing area 300. In the illustrated second embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention, the first processing area 300 comprises a fixing arrangement 310, a tightening arrangement 320, and a cutting arrangement 330.

[0112] As can be seen from the Figures 8 and 9As can further be seen, the fixing arrangement 310 comprises a plurality of fixing elements 312 mounted so as to be movable in the vertical direction. In a fixing position, the fixing elements 312 press directly onto the upper side of the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20, so that the outer packaging 20 is fixed in the fixed position between the fixing elements 312 and the support surface 202. The fixing elements 312 can optionally be coupled to a foam cushion (not shown), which has a contact surface arranged on an underside. In this case, the fixing elements 312 press the contact surface of the foam cushion onto the upper side of the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20. Instead of a foam cushion, other suitable elements are also conceivable. The fixing elements 312 can optionally be elastically mounted.

[0113] As can be seen from the Figures 8 and 9As can also be seen, the cutting arrangement 330 of the first processing area 300 comprises a cutting element 332, which faces the underside of the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20 to be opened. In the illustrated embodiment of the cutting arrangement 330, the cutting element 332 is designed as a knife or as a sharp point. However, other suitable designs of the cutting element 332 are also feasible. In the illustrated embodiment of the cutting arrangement 330, the cutting element 332 is resiliently mounted. In this case, a spring arrangement is arranged in a housing 336.

[0114] The cutting element 332 can be pushed into or retracted from the housing 336 through an opening in the housing 336 if the pressure on the cutting element 332 exceeds a predetermined threshold. The cutting element 332 can be moved out of the housing 336 through the opening in the housing 336 if the pressure on the cutting element 332 falls below the predetermined threshold. The threshold for the pressure on the cutting element 332 can be exceeded if the cutting element 332 impacts a content 10 arranged in the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20. The housing 336 is moved together with the cutting element 332 via a guide element 334 designed as a rail. In the illustrated embodiment of the cutting arrangement 330, the cutting element 332 is moved along a straight path in the transverse direction, but other movement paths are also feasible.In a further alternative embodiment of the cutting assembly 330, the cutting assembly 330 can have more than one cutting element 332. Furthermore, in an alternative embodiment of the first processing area 300, the cutting element 332 or the cutting elements 332 can face an upper side of the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20. In the illustrated embodiment of the first processing area 300, the support surface 202 comprises an opening for the cutting element 332, in which the cutting element 332 is guided.

[0115] As can be seen from the Figures 8 and 9As can also be seen, the tightening arrangement 320 of the first processing area 300 comprises a plurality of nozzles 328 which can be moved in the direction of the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20 by means of a suitable device. In the illustrated embodiment of the first processing area 300, the tips of the nozzles 328 pierce the underside of the outer packaging 20 and introduce a gas into the outer packaging 20. The support surface 202 has openings through which the nozzles 328 are moved in the direction of the outer packaging 20. The nozzles 328 can be elastically mounted. After the filling process, the nozzles 328 move back into a rest position. In the illustrated embodiment of the first processing area 300, the nozzles 328 are arranged in two rows, with the cutting element 328 being guided between the rows.During the filling process, the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20 bulges outwards, whereby the flexible region 22 is tightened and a cutting surface 24 is created.

[0116] The cutting element 332 moves through the cutting surface 24 during the filling of the outer packaging 20 and applies the at least one cutting path to the area 22 to be provided with the cutting path, while the fixing arrangement 310 fixes the outer packaging 20. Other suitable arrangements of the nozzles 328 and the cutting element 332 are also conceivable.

[0117] The outer packaging 20, which has at least one cutting path, is transported to the third station. The outer packaging 20 can be transported by the user or by a suitable transport arrangement, such as a conveyor belt or a gripper arm.

[0118] As can be seen from the Figures 10 and 11As can be further seen, the outer packaging 20 rests with its underside on a support surface 202 after being introduced into the second processing area 300. In the illustrated second embodiment of the device 200 according to the invention, the second processing area 300 comprises a fixing arrangement 310, a tightening arrangement 320, and a cutting arrangement 330.

[0119] As can be seen from the Figures 10 and 11 As can be seen further, the fixing arrangement 310 comprises a plurality of fixing elements 312 which are mounted so as to be movable in the vertical direction. The fixing elements 312 are designed as suction cups and suck up areas of the upper side in a fixing position.

[0120] As can be seen from the Figures 10 and 11As can also be seen, the cutting arrangement 330 of the second processing area 300 comprises three cutting elements 332, which face the underside of the outer packaging 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the three cutting elements 332 are guided perpendicular to the cutting path provided in the first processing area 300. In an alternative, not illustrated embodiment of the second processing area 300, the cutting elements 332 can also be guided at a different angle to the already introduced cutting path. In addition, the second processing area 300 can have more or fewer than three cutting elements 332. In the illustrated embodiment of the cutting arrangement 330, the cutting elements 332 are designed as knives or as sharp points. However, other suitable designs of the cutting elements 332 can also be implemented.

[0121] In the illustrated embodiment of the cutting assembly 330, the cutting elements 332 are resiliently mounted. In the illustrated embodiment of the cutting assembly 330, the cutting elements 332 are moved along a straight path in the longitudinal direction, but other movement paths are also possible. In the illustrated embodiment of the second processing area 300, the support surface 202 comprises a plurality of openings, with a corresponding cutting element 332 being guided in each opening.

[0122] As can be seen from the Figures 10 and 11As can also be seen, the tightening arrangement 320 in the illustrated embodiment of the second processing area 300 comprises a plurality of fixing elements 322 arranged in four rows. In the illustrated embodiment of the second processing area 300, the fixing elements 322 are designed as suction cups. However, other fixing elements 322 are also conceivable. Between two rows formed from fixing elements 322, a cutting surface 24 is created by actively tightening the corresponding sections of the area 22 to be provided with the cutting path 26. Each cutting surface 24 is assigned a cutting element 332, which is guided along this cutting surface 24.

[0123] As from Figure 11As can be further seen, at least one fixing element 312 of the fixing arrangement 310 lifts a region 29 opposite an opening 28 against the force of gravity. In this case, the contents 10 can be shaken out of the outer packaging 20 through the opening 28 by an upward and downward movement of the at least one fixing element 312. Shaking out can also be achieved by a lateral movement of the at least one fixing element 312.

[0124] The contents 10 can be transported further via a suitable transport arrangement or by a user.

[0125] The third station is suitable for contents that have a casing, as the casing offers additional protection.

[0126] In a method according to the invention for opening an at least partially flexible outer packaging 20, in particular an outer packaging 20 that is flexible when filled, the outer packaging 20 is introduced into a processing area 300 in one method step. The outer packaging 20 is fixed in the processing area 300 in an additional alternative method step. At least one cutting path 26 is applied to a region 22 of the outer packaging 20 that is to be provided with the cutting path 26, wherein at least for applying the at least one cutting path 26, at least one cutting surface 24 is created on the region 22 to be provided with the cutting path 26 by actively tightening the region 22 to be provided with the cutting path 26.

[0127] In an alternative embodiment, the region 22 to be provided with the at least one cutting path 26 can be produced by passive tightening.

[0128] In an optional method step, a pressure of the cutting surface 24 of the at least partially flexible outer packaging 20 on a content 10 enclosed by the outer packaging 20 is reduced.

[0129] In a first embodiment of the method according to the invention, in order to tighten the region 22 to be provided with the cutting path 26, this region 22 is clamped between at least two fixing elements 322. In an optional method step, the region 22 to be provided with the cutting path 26, which is clamped between the at least two fixing elements 322 and thus tightened, is lifted before the at least one cutting path 26 is applied.

[0130] In an optional method step, a gas is introduced into the outer packaging 20 to tighten the area 22 to be provided with the cutting path 26. The outer packaging 20 is penetrated by at least one nozzle 328 for introducing the gas.

[0131] In a second embodiment of the method according to the invention, a gas is introduced into the outer packaging 20 to tighten the area 22 to be provided with the cutting path 26. The outer packaging 20 is penetrated by at least one nozzle 328 for introducing the gas.

[0132] In an optional method step, the tightness of the outer packaging 20 is checked before introducing the gas or before applying the at least one cutting path 26. The tightness is checked by introducing the gas.

[0133] In both embodiments of the method according to the invention, at least one cutting element 332 acts from above or below to apply the at least one cutting path 26 to the region 22 to be provided with the cutting path 26. Optionally, at least two intersecting cutting paths 26 can be applied to the region 22 of the outer packaging 20 to be provided with the cutting path 26. In this case, the at least two intersecting cutting paths 26 can be applied successively to the flexible region 22.

[0134] In a further optional process step, the contents 10 can be shaken out of the flexible outer packaging 20 through the opening 28.

[0135] The Figures 12 to 14illustrate in a schematic representation as a sectional view a detail of a further embodiment of a device 200 for opening an at least partially flexible outer packaging 20 with an outer packaging 20 arranged on a support 356 in a lying position at the beginning of the processing ( Figure 12 ), in upright position ( Figure 13 ) and in front view ( Figure 14 ).

[0136] The outer packaging 20 is secured on one side, in particular on an edge 21, in a fixing arrangement 310 designed as a holding device 352, in particular as a clamping device. This can be done, as shown, with the outer packaging 20 in a horizontal position. Optionally, this can also be done in an upright position, in which the support 256 is upright.

[0137] In one variant, a clamping element 354 of the holding device 352 can press the outer packaging 20 at the edge 21 against the support 356. Alternatively, in a variant not shown, the holding device 352 can have two clamping elements 354 that act on the outer packaging 20 from both sides and clamp it between them.

[0138] If the outer packaging 20 is inserted into the device 200 in a lying position, the support 356 is erected after the outer packaging 20 has been secured. For this purpose, the support is rotated by 90°. For this purpose, the device 200 has a tilting device (not shown).

[0139] The erection of the support 356 with the outer packaging 20 leads to a passive tightening of the area 22 where a cutting path is to be applied, as the contents 10 of the outer packaging 20 slide downwards.

[0140] A cutting element 332 of a cutting arrangement 330 can be guided along the clamping element 354 ( Figure 13 ), which cuts through the clamped outer packaging 20 over the entire length of the clamped area of ​​the outer packaging 20 (here perpendicular to the image plane of the Figure 13 , or parallel to the clamping element 354 in Figure 14 ) or at least partially cut through. The contents 10 of the outer packaging 20 can then be tipped out through the opening created in this way by rotating the support 356 a further 90°. The contents 10 can be collected and the outer packaging 20 disposed of.

[0141] Optionally, the cutting element 332 can be integrated into the clamping element 354.

[0142] Filling with gas, as in the previous embodiments in the Figures 6-11 already described, is also possible in this embodiment before the cutting element 332 cuts open the outer packaging 20. This allows the area 22 of the outer packaging 20 to be provided with the cutting path 26 to be further tightened.

[0143] Optionally, the outer packaging 20 can also be cut open in a lying position. In such a case, it is advantageous to apply the cutting element 332 to the area on the edge 21 of the outer packaging 20 that is separated from the contents 10 of the outer packaging 20 by the clamping element 354. Emptying the outer packaging 20 can be carried out in a simple manner by, for example, sucking the cut-open outer packaging 20 with a suction device, releasing the clamping element 354, and tipping the contents 10 out of the cut-open outer packaging 20.

[0144] The Figures 15 and 16 show in a schematic representation as a sectional view a detail of a further embodiment of a device 200 for opening an at least partially flexible outer packaging 20 with an outer packaging 20 at the beginning of the processing in a lying position on a support 356 ( Figure 15 ) and in upright position ( Figure 16 ).

[0145] The outer packaging 20 is positioned with its contents 10 on a support 356 and secured at the edge 21 through a suction opening 362 formed in the support 356 by a suction device 360 ​​of a fixing arrangement 310. The suction device 360 ​​can be slit-shaped and can be inserted into the Figures 15 , 16 protrude into the image plane. The suction device 360 ​​may have one or more suction elements.

[0146] The support 356 is raised from the lying position to the vertical position. For this purpose, the device 200 has a tilting device (not shown).

[0147] A cutting element 332 of a cutting arrangement 330 is guided along the area 22 ( Figure 16 ), which cuts through the sucked-on outer packaging 20 over the entire length of the sucked-on area of ​​the outer packaging 20 (here perpendicular to the image plane of the Figure 16), or at least partially cut through. The contents 10 of the outer packaging 20 can then be tipped out through the opening created in this way by rotating the support 356 a further 90°. The contents 10 can be collected and the outer packaging 20 disposed of.

[0148] Filling with gas, as in the previous embodiments in the Figures 6-14 already described, is also possible in this embodiment before the cutting element 332 cuts open the outer packaging 20. This allows the area 22 of the outer packaging 20 to be provided with the cutting path 26 to be further tightened.

[0149] Optionally, the outer packaging 20 can also be cut open in the area at the edge 21, which is separated from the contents 10 of the outer packaging 20 by the suction opening 362. Emptying the outer packaging 20 can be carried out in a simple manner by sucking the cut-open outer packaging 20, for example, with the suction device 360 ​​and tipping the contents 10 out of the cut-open outer packaging 20.

[0150] The Figures 17 to 21 show several positions in the handling of the outer packaging 20 according to Figure 15 For the sake of clarity, only a few of the reference symbols are given.

[0151] The at least partially flexible outer packaging 20 is introduced into the device with its contents ( Figure 17 ), for example in a lying position. The outer packaging 20 is secured at the edge by suction ( Figure 18 ) and then tilted into an upright position and cut at the edge with a cutting element ( Figure 19) at least partially cut open so that an opening is formed ( Figure 20 ). The outer packaging 20 is then tipped over ( Figure 21 ) and the contents 10 slide out of the cut-open outer packaging 20 and can, for example, fall into a collection container (not shown). The outer packaging 20 can then be disposed of, for example, in a waste container. Reference symbol

[0152] 10 Contents 20 Outer packaging 21 Edge 22 Area 24 Cutting surface 26 Cutting path 28 Opening 29 Area opposite the opening 200 Device for opening an outer packaging 202 Support surface 300 Processing area 310 Fixing arrangement 312 Fixing element 320 Tightening arrangement 322 Fixing element 324 Frame 325 Gap 326 Lifting device 328 Nozzle 330 Cutting arrangement 332 Cutting element 334 Guide element 336 Housing 352 Holding device 354 Clamping element 356 Support 360 Suction device 362 Suction opening 400 Inspection area 420 Nozzle

Claims

1. Method for opening an at least partially flexible outer packaging (20) filled with a content (10), in particular an outer packaging (20) which is at least partially flexible in the filled state, wherein the outer packaging (20) is introduced into a processing area (300) of a device (200) for opening and at least one cutting path (26) is applied to a region (22) of the outer packaging (20), wherein the region (22) to be provided with the at least one cutting path (26) is prepared by actively or passively tightening the region (22) for applying the at least one cutting path (26).

2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in thatat least for applying the at least one cutting path (26), at least one cutting surface (24) suitable for cutting is prepared or provided on the region (22) to be provided with the at least one cutting path (26) by fixing this region (22) in at least one dimension on a fixing arrangement (310).

3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in thatin order to tighten the area (22) to be provided with the at least one cutting path (26) and / or to lift the area (22) to be provided with the at least one cutting path (26) from the contents (10) of the outer packaging (20), a gas is introduced into the outer packaging (20), in particular that the outer packaging (20) is penetrated by at least one nozzle (328) for introducing the gas, in particular wherein the tightness of the outer packaging (20) is checked before the gas is introduced or before the at least one cutting path (26) is applied, in particular that the tightness is checked by introducing the gas.

4. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in thatto tighten the at least one cutting surface (24) of the region (22) to be provided with the at least one cutting path (26), the region (22) is fixed, in particular tensioned, with at least one fixing element (322) of the fixing arrangement (310), in particular that the region (22) tensioned and / or tightened by the at least one fixing element (322) is lifted or at least moved away from the contents (10) before the at least one cutting path (26) is applied.

5. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contents (10) of the outer packaging (20) are at least partially loosened, in particular shaken, before being fixed and / or before being cut.

6. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in thata pressure of at least the at least one cutting surface (24) of the outer packaging (20) on the contents (10) enclosed by the outer packaging (20) is reduced at least in the region (22) to be provided with the at least one cutting path (26).

7. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fixing of the area (22) is carried out by clamping the outer packaging (20) in the fixing arrangement (310), in particular by clamping an edge area (21) of the outer packaging (20), or that the fixing of the area (22) is carried out by suction of the outer packaging (20), in particular the area (22) to be provided with the cutting path (26) in the fixing arrangement (310), in particular by suction of an edge area (21) or a surface of the outer packaging (20).

8. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in thatat least one cutting element (332) for applying the at least one cutting path (26) acts on the area (22) to be provided with the at least one cutting path (26).

9. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least two intersecting cutting paths (26) are applied in the area (22) of the outer packaging (20) to be provided with the at least one cutting path (26), in particular that the at least two intersecting cutting paths (26) are applied one after the other to the area (22) to be provided with the at least one cutting path (26).

10. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a tilting device and / or rotating device tilts and / or rotates the cut-open outer packaging (20) with the area (22) provided with the at least one cutting path (26).

11. Device (200) for opening an at least partially flexible outer packaging (20) filled with a content (10), in particular an outer packaging (20) which is flexible when filled, wherein the device (300) is suitable for carrying out a method according to one of the preceding claims, with a processing area (300) which comprises at least one cutting arrangement (330) which applies at least one cutting path (26) to the area (22) to be provided with the at least one cutting path (26), wherein a tightening arrangement (320) is present which is designed to produce at least one cutting surface (24) on an area (22) to be provided with the at least one cutting path (26) by actively or passively tightening the area (22), at least for applying the at least one cutting path (26).

12. Device according to claim 11, characterized in that the processing area (300) comprises at least one fixing arrangement (310).

13. Device according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the fixing arrangement (310) has a suction device (354) which is designed to produce at least one cutting surface (24) on the region (22) to be provided with the at least one cutting path (26) by sucking the region (22), at least for applying the at least one cutting path (26), and / or wherein the fixing arrangement (310) has a holding device (352), in particular a clamping device, which is designed to produce at least one cutting surface (24) on the region (22) to be provided with the at least one cutting path (26) by clamping the region (22).

14. Device according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in thatthe cutting arrangement (320) has at least one cutting element (332) movably mounted along the at least one cutting surface (24), in particular that the at least one cutting element (332) is resiliently mounted.

15. Device according to one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in thatthe tightening arrangement (320) has at least one fixing element (322) with which at least one section of the area (22) to be provided with the at least one cutting path (26), said section forming the at least one cutting surface (24), can be fixed, in particular tensioned, in particular the at least one fixing element (322) can be brought into operative connection with an upper side of the outer packaging (20). in particular wherein the at least one fixing element (322) is mounted so as to be movable in the vertical direction and in particular lifts at least the at least one cutting surface (24) against the force of gravity, in particular wherein at least two fixing elements (322) are present and at least one cutting element (332) of the cutting arrangement (320) is movable between the at least two fixing elements (322).

16. Device according to one of claims 11 to 15, characterized in thatthe processing area (300), in particular the fixing arrangement (310), comprises at least one nozzle (328) which has a tip penetrating the outer packaging (20) and which directs a gas into the outer packaging (20), in particular that the at least one nozzle (328) is mounted so as to be movable in the direction of the outer packaging (20), in particular wherein the at least one nozzle (328) is mounted in a spring-elastic manner, in particular wherein a support surface (202) has at least one opening for the at least one cutting element (332) and at least one opening for the at least one nozzle (328).

17. Device according to one of claims 11 to 16, characterized in thata checking region (400) comprises at least one nozzle (420) which has at least one tip penetrating the outer packaging (20) and which directs a gas into the outer packaging (20), in particular that the fixing arrangement (310) fixes the outer packaging (20) during the introduction of the gas and / or during the cutting.

18. Device according to one of claims 11 to 17, characterized in that the at least one fixing element (312) of the fixing arrangement (310) lifts a region (29) opposite an opening (28) against the force of gravity, and / or that a tilting device and / or rotating device is provided which tilts and / or rotates the cut-open outer packaging (20) with the region (22) provided with the at least one cutting path (26) in order to empty the outer packaging (20).

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