A system and method for packaging a stream of items

Abstract

A system for unitary packaging of a stream of individual items (101) moved on a belt conveyor (110), characterized in that it comprises: at least two packing tape feeders (130) configured to provide at least one packing tape (131) along each side of the stream of the items (101); an item position stabilization module (140) configured to hold still the frontmost individual item (101) of the stream of items (101) to be packaged as it is surrounded on the sides by the packing tapes (131); a packing tape joining module (150) for joining the packing tapes (131) in a position between the item (101) held by the item position stabilization module (140) and its adjacent item (101) downstream; and a controller (102) configured to coordinate the operation of the system.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a system and method for packaging, specifically designed for the automated packaging of mechanically sensitive items, both individually and in batches, particularly of items of varying sizes. The system is particularly advantageous for packaging short production runs of items prone to abrasion, breakage, and similar mechanical damage. It is especially suitable for packaging glass or ceramic items, which require individual packaging and protection, followed by layer-by-layer palletization.BACKGROUND

[0002] Existing packaging solutions that utilize bulk trusses to position the product or detail within the free spaces do not facilitate automation that leads to layered palletization of products. This results in frequent and time-consuming changeovers, particularly in the case of low-volume and variable production runs.

[0003] Known equipment for packaging involves moving products on a conveyor between two strips of packaging material, arranged horizontally below and above the product, which are then joined (usually by welding) to form packaging bags around the products.

[0004] However, the solutions known to date in this field are not adapted for use when packing items of the same height but different other dimensions, leading to process issues, especially in the case of short product series.

[0005] DE1989766U discloses a device for packaging, for example, packs of tissues, into packages. In this solution, the elements to be packed are moved in sequence, placed between two strips of packaging material (e.g., foil), which are then connected (e.g., welded) in the space between the individual packed elements. However, this solution does not allow for packing items of different sizes, which limits its application.

[0006] DE102011083919A1 discloses a device for packaging, for example, drug leaflets into packages. In this solution, the elements to be packed are moved in sequence, placed between two strips of packaging material (e.g., foil), which are connected (e.g., welded) in the space between the individual packed elements, creating a plane. The string thus created is intended for further transport to the facility where it will be cut. However, this solution does not address the previously mentioned problems related to packaging products of different sizes.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need to develop a system and method for packing items that allows for the packaging of a stream of items of various sizes without the need to re-equip the system. Such a system should preferably allow for the use of various types of packaging materials.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The present invention provides a system and method that enables the continuous packing of a stream of items, requiring refitting only when there is a change in the height range of the items being packed. When the size of the packaging needs to be altered, it is only necessary to apply new sizes of packaging tapes.

[0009] The disclosed solution allows for: minimizing downtime for changeover of the packaging line when changing the dimensions of the packaged items; simplifying and accelerating the change of packaging, including the adjustment of packaging dimensions; reducing operator involvement in the packaging and palletization process; securing packaged items from their sides; creating packaging that facilitates the storage of sequences of items side-by-side and in multiple layers, e.g., using spacers made from the packaging material (such as tape).

[0010] In one aspect, the invention relates to a system for unitary packaging of a stream of individual items moved on a belt conveyor, characterized by including at least two packing tape feeders configured to provide at least one packing tape along each side of the stream of the items; an item position stabilization module configured to hold still the frontmost individual item of the stream of items to be packaged as it is surrounded on the sides by the packing tapes; a packing tape joining module for joining the packing tapes in a position between the item held by the item position stabilization module and its adjacent item downstream; and a controller configured to coordinate the operation of the system. This configuration provides the technical advantage of enabling continuous and automated packaging of items with varying dimensions without the need for system re-equipment.

[0011] A preferred embodiment of the invention includes a positioning module for aligning the individual items to form a linear stream on the belt conveyor. This embodiment offers the technical advantage of ensuring that items are consistently and accurately positioned for packaging, which enhances the efficiency of the packaging process.

[0012] Another preferred aspect of the invention comprises a belt tension roller module configured to maintain a predefined tension of the dispensing packing tape from the packing tape feeders. This feature provides the technical advantage of preventing slack or breakage in the packing tape, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted packaging operation.

[0013] In a further preferred embodiment, the belt tension roller module is integrated with the positioning module. This integration offers the technical advantage of reducing the complexity of the system and minimizing the footprint of the packaging line.

[0014] An additional preferred aspect of the invention is where the packing tapes are fed with their surface perpendicular to the belt conveyor. This orientation provides the technical advantage of enabling the lateral securing of items, which is particularly beneficial for the packaging of mechanically sensitive items.

[0015] Another preferred embodiment includes a position sensor attached above the item position stabilization module for determining the position of the packed item while holding the item. This sensor provides the technical advantage of precise item detection, which is crucial for accurate packaging tape joining and overall system synchronization.

[0016] A further preferred aspect of the invention comprises an adhesive applicator configured to apply an adhesive to the surfaces of the packing tapes that are to be joined by the packing tape joining module. This feature offers the technical advantage of creating a secure bond between packing tapes, which is essential for the integrity of the packaged product.

[0017] In another preferred embodiment, the packing tape joining module comprises a stapler configured to join the packing tapes by staples. This embodiment provides the technical advantage of a strong mechanical fastening method, suitable for heavy or bulky items that require robust packaging.

[0018] A preferred aspect of the invention is where the packing tape is made of paper, cardboard, corrugated cardboard, non-woven plastic, plastic foil, or bubble foil. This variety of materials provides the technical advantage of allowing the system to be adaptable to different packaging requirements and item sensitivities.

[0019] In another aspect, the invention relates to a method for the unitary packaging of a stream of individual items moved on a belt conveyor by means of the system is another aspect of the invention, characterized by the steps of delivering the items to the belt conveyor; moving consecutive items on the belt conveyor into a position between packaging tapes; holding the item surrounded by the packaging tapes by the item position stabilization module; and joining the packing tapes in a position between the item held by the item position stabilization module and its adjacent item downstream by the packing tape joining module. This method provides the technical advantage of a streamlined packaging process that can be adapted to various item sizes and packaging materials, improving the adaptability and efficiency of the packaging operation.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] The invention is illustrated by means of exemplary embodiments in the drawings, wherein: Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a first embodiment of a packaging system; Fig. 2 schematically illustrates a second embodiment of a packaging system; Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a third embodiment of a packaging system; Fig. 4 schematically illustrates an item position stabilization module with an optical sensor; Fig. 5 schematically illustrates a packing tape joining module with an adhesive element; Fig. 6 depicts the steps of the packaging method according to the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] The following detailed description outlines the most currently contemplated modes of carrying out the invention. This description is not to be taken in a limiting sense but is made merely to describe the general principles of the invention.

[0022] The invention pertains to an automated system for the continuous packaging of mechanically sensitive items, which, due to their physical characteristics or mechanical sensitivity, require individualized, unitary packaging. The packaging process is automated and independent of the size and dimensions of the items being packaged. The packing material, herein referred to as packing tape, is supplied vertically, enveloping the items laterally, which contrasts with the top and bottom wrapping found in prior art solutions.

[0023] The operation of the packaging line is interrupted under two circumstances: the first is depletion of the available supply of packing tapes, and the second is the requirement to adjust the dimensions of the packing tapes to accommodate the size of the items being packaged.

[0024] The invention was conceived to meet the demands of small-scale production of mechanically sensitive items with varying dimensions, intended for layered palletization.

[0025] The system was developed to include packing tape feeders that operate under the control of a system that automatically detects the dimensions of the packaged item and adjusts the spacing between items according to the packaging and palletizing requirements.

[0026] The invention provides a system for the unitary packaging of a stream of mechanically sensitive items 101 conveyed by a belt conveyor 110 and aligned into a linear stream, i.e., one item after another with some distance between the items, by a positioning module 120. The system is characterized by including at least two packing tape feeders 130 that supply a packing tape 131 for each side of the stream of items 101; an item position stabilization module 140 for securing the item once it is encircled by packing tape 131 when connecting packing tapes 131 from at least two packing tape feeders 130; a packing tape joining module 150 for affixing packing tapes 131 together behind the item 101 held by the item position stabilization module 140; and a controller 102 configured to synchronize the operation of the system's components and modulate the speed of the belt conveyor 110, as depicted in Fig. 1.

[0027] The system employs a packing tape feeder 130 on each side of the stream of items 101. The packing tapes 131 are the material in which the final product is encased. The packing tape feeders 130 dispense the material in ribbon form, either from rolls or pre-folded from boxes. The packing tapes 131 can be made of a suitable packing material such as paper, cardboard, corrugated cardboard, fleece, non-woven fabric, woven fabric, non-woven plastic, plastic foil, or bubble foil. The dimensions, width, and mass of the packing tape 131 are contingent on the packaging requirements and the dimensions of the items 101 to be packaged.

[0028] The packing tape joining module 150 connects the left and right packing tapes 131 to form a collective package containing multiple items 101 secured laterally by the packing tape 131. The joining technique for the packing tapes is dependent on the material of the tapes and may encompass sealing, welding, melting, stapling, gluing, or other methods. For instance, sealing, welding, or melting can be executed by a heating element situated at the ends of the arms of the joining module 150 that press the packing tapes 131 together, affecting the tapes from the exterior. Alternatively, a stapler may be incorporated into one or both arms of the joining module 150 to apply staples or other mechanical fasteners to the tapes. Additionally, the packing tape joining module 150 can be equipped with a vertically movable arm 180 that is equipped with a heater or adhesive applicator to apply heat or adhesive to the inner faces of the packing tapes 131 before they are pressed together. This is achieved by initially positioning the arm 180 between the packing tapes 131, clamping the tapes 131 onto it, and then elevating the applicator 180 and compressing the packing tapes 131 together, as illustrated in Fig. 5.

[0029] The system may also include a packaged item transport module that conveys the bulk package containing the packaged products to the palletizing or further packaging module. This module can also regulate the velocity of the packaged items stream. The module for transporting packed items facilitates the movement of a web of packed items in packing tapes independently of the conveyor belt 110, while simultaneously controlling the speed of the web's movement. This system transports packed items to the packaging or palletizing module.

[0030] During operation, the stream of items progresses along the conveyor belt 110 toward the positioning module 120, the item position stabilization module 140, and the packing tape joining module 150. The packing tape feeders 130 maintain a supply of packing tapes 131 of the appropriate type. When the system is activated, packing tapes 131 are threaded through the belt tension roller module 160 for both the left and right sides. The packing tapes 131 are supplied from the left and right sides of the conveyor belts 110 in a vertical orientation. The initial joining of the packing tapes occurs in the packing tape joining module 150, which includes a suitable set of tools depending on the type of packing tapes 131 used. For example, with paper tapes, a set of tools for stitching or gluing paper materials may be utilized, whereas with plastic tapes, a set of tools for stitching or spot sealing across the width of the tape may be employed.

[0031] The system awaits the first item to be correctly positioned. The position sensor 170 detects the presence of the item and its correct positioning within the item position stabilization module 140, as shown in Fig. 4. The presence of the item can be determined by various types of position sensors 170, such as color sensors, distance sensors, material type recognition sensors, laser profilers, vision cameras, etc. Based on the signal from the position sensor 170 and the speed of the conveyor belt 110, the controller 102 can ascertain the precise location of the currently packaged item 101. Once the item reaches the appropriate position, the packing tape joining module 150 performs the joining of the packing tape 131 behind the packed item. The item then moves onto the roller conveyor 190 and is captured by the packaged item transport module. The packaged item transport module, for instance, a chain gripper conveyor, allows the packed item string to be transported and the speed of its movement to be adjusted without compromising the integrity of the package. The movement and speed of the web of packed items are regulated by the packaged item transport module, which adjusts them as needed. At predetermined intervals, based on the number of packed items or a set distance, the packing tape joining module 150 makes two connections of the ribbons with an adjustable gap. This step is necessary to facilitate cutting the web or arranging the packed items in multiple rows. The web of packed items is then conveyed from the roller conveyor 190 to the packing and palletizing module.

[0032] Figures 2 and 3 illustrate embodiments of the invention that utilize paper belts with one side pre-coated with water-activated adhesive. These figures schematically demonstrate the implementation of the system with the conceptual elements of the described system indicated. The packing tapes 131 are stored in the packing tape feeders 130. Items 101 arriving on the conveyor belt 110 are positioned using the positioning module, which may also serve as the belt tension roller module 160, integrating both functions. The item position stabilization module 140 employs position sensors 170 such as optical sensors to ascertain the correct positioning of the packed item. Upon confirmation of the item's presence, the system moistens the packing tapes 131 and presses them together for adhesion in the packing tape joining module 150. The items, encased in the lateral tapes, are moved by a ramp to the bulk packaging area. The ramp is an example of a packaged item transport module, though it is not the only possible technical solution for the system.

[0033] The invention also provides a method for the unitary packaging of a stream of mechanically sensitive items 101 conveyed by a belt conveyor 110 and organized by a positioning module 120 using the system described herein. The method includes the steps of delivering 201 the items 101 to the belt conveyor 110; moving 202 each item 101 on the belt conveyor 110 into a position between the packing tapes 131; securing 203 the item 101 surrounded by the packing tapes 131 using the item position stabilization module 140; and affixing 204 the packing tapes 131 behind the item 101 held by the item position stabilization module 140 using the packing tape joining module 150.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0021]The following detailed description outlines the most currently contemplated modes of carrying out the invention. This description is not to be taken in a limiting sense but is made merely to describe the general principles of the invention.

[0022]The invention pertains to an automated system for the continuous packaging of mechanically sensitive items, which, due to their physical characteristics or mechanical sensitivity, require individualized, unitary packaging. The packaging process is automated and independent of the size and dimensions of the items being packaged. The packing material, herein referred to as packing tape, is supplied vertically, enveloping the items laterally, which contrasts with the top and bottom wrapping found in prior art solutions.

[0023]The operation of the packaging line is interrupted under two circumstances: the first is depletion of the available supply of packing tapes, and the second is the requirement to adjust the dimensions of the packing ta...

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a system and method for packaging, specifically designed for the automated packaging of mechanically sensitive items, both individually and in batches, particularly of items of varying sizes. The system is particularly advantageous for packaging short production runs of items prone to abrasion, breakage, and similar mechanical damage. It is especially suitable for packaging glass or ceramic items, which require individual packaging and protection, followed by layer-by-layer palletization.BACKGROUND

[0002] Existing packaging solutions that utilize bulk trusses to position the product or detail within the free spaces do not facilitate automation that leads to layered palletization of products. This results in frequent and time-consuming changeovers, particularly in the case of low-volume and variable production runs.

[0003] Known equipment for packaging involves moving products on a conveyor between two strips of packaging material, arranged horizontally below and above the product, which are then joined (usually by welding) to form packaging bags around the products.

[0004] However, the solutions known to date in this field are not adapted for use when packing items of the same height but different other dimensions, leading to process issues, especially in the case of short product series.

[0005] DE1989766U discloses a device for packaging, for example, packs of tissues, into packages. In this solution, the elements to be packed are moved in sequence, placed between two strips of packaging material (e.g., foil), which are then connected (e.g., welded) in the space between the individual packed elements. However, this solution does not allow for packing items of different sizes, which limits its application.

[0006] DE102011083919A1 discloses a device for packaging, for example, drug leaflets into packages. In this solution, the elements to be packed are moved in sequence, placed between two strips of packaging material (e.g., foil), which are connected (e.g., welded) in the space between the individual packed elements, creating a plane. The string thus created is intended for further transport to the facility where it will be cut. However, this solution does not address the previously mentioned problems related to packaging products of different sizes.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need to develop a system and method for packing items that allows for the packaging of a stream of items of various sizes without the need to re-equip the system. Such a system should preferably allow for the use of various types of packaging materials.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The present invention provides a system and method that enables the continuous packing of a stream of items, requiring refitting only when there is a change in the height range of the items being packed. When the size of the packaging needs to be altered, it is only necessary to apply new sizes of packaging tapes.

[0009] The disclosed solution allows for: minimizing downtime for changeover of the packaging line when changing the dimensions of the packaged items; simplifying and accelerating the change of packaging, including the adjustment of packaging dimensions; reducing operator involvement in the packaging and palletization process; securing packaged items from their sides; creating packaging that facilitates the storage of sequences of items side-by-side and in multiple layers, e.g., using spacers made from the packaging material (such as tape).

[0010] In one aspect, the invention relates to a system for unitary packaging of a stream of individual items moved on a belt conveyor, characterized by including at least two packing tape feeders configured to provide at least one packing tape along each side of the stream of the items; an item position stabilization module configured to hold still the frontmost individual item of the stream of items to be packaged as it is surrounded on the sides by the packing tapes; a packing tape joining module for joining the packing tapes in a position between the item held by the item position stabilization module and its adjacent item downstream; and a controller configured to coordinate the operation of the system. This configuration provides the technical advantage of enabling continuous and automated packaging of items with varying dimensions without the need for system re-equipment.

[0011] A preferred embodiment of the invention includes a positioning module for aligning the individual items to form a linear stream on the belt conveyor. This embodiment offers the technical advantage of ensuring that items are consistently and accurately positioned for packaging, which enhances the efficiency of the packaging process.

[0012] Another preferred aspect of the invention comprises a belt tension roller module configured to maintain a predefined tension of the dispensing packing tape from the packing tape feeders. This feature provides the technical advantage of preventing slack or breakage in the packing tape, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted packaging operation.

[0013] In a further preferred embodiment, the belt tension roller module is integrated with the positioning module. This integration offers the technical advantage of reducing the complexity of the system and minimizing the footprint of the packaging line.

[0014] An additional preferred aspect of the invention is where the packing tapes are fed with their surface perpendicular to the belt conveyor. This orientation provides the technical advantage of enabling the lateral securing of items, which is particularly beneficial for the packaging of mechanically sensitive items.

[0015] Another preferred embodiment includes a position sensor attached above the item position stabilization module for determining the position of the packed item while holding the item. This sensor provides the technical advantage of precise item detection, which is crucial for accurate packaging tape joining and overall system synchronization.

[0016] A further preferred aspect of the invention comprises an adhesive applicator configured to apply an adhesive to the surfaces of the packing tapes that are to be joined by the packing tape joining module. This feature offers the technical advantage of creating a secure bond between packing tapes, which is essential for the integrity of the packaged product.

[0017] In another preferred embodiment, the packing tape joining module comprises a stapler configured to join the packing tapes by staples. This embodiment provides the technical advantage of a strong mechanical fastening method, suitable for heavy or bulky items that require robust packaging.

[0018] A preferred aspect of the invention is where the packing tape is made of paper, cardboard, corrugated cardboard, non-woven plastic, plastic foil, or bubble foil. This variety of materials provides the technical advantage of allowing the system to be adaptable to different packaging requirements and item sensitivities.

[0019] In another aspect, the invention relates to a method for the unitary packaging of a stream of individual items moved on a belt conveyor by means of the system is another aspect of the invention, characterized by the steps of delivering the items to the belt conveyor; moving consecutive items on the belt conveyor into a position between packaging tapes; holding the item surrounded by the packaging tapes by the item position stabilization module; and joining the packing tapes in a position between the item held by the item position stabilization module and its adjacent item downstream by the packing tape joining module. This method provides the technical advantage of a streamlined packaging process that can be adapted to various item sizes and packaging materials, improving the adaptability and efficiency of the packaging operation.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] The invention is illustrated by means of exemplary embodiments in the drawings, wherein: Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a first embodiment of a packaging system; Fig. 2 schematically illustrates a second embodiment of a packaging system; Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a third embodiment of a packaging system; Fig. 4 schematically illustrates an item position stabilization module with an optical sensor; Fig. 5 schematically illustrates a packing tape joining module with an adhesive element; Fig. 6 depicts the steps of the packaging method according to the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] The following detailed description outlines the most currently contemplated modes of carrying out the invention. This description is not to be taken in a limiting sense but is made merely to describe the general principles of the invention.

[0022] The invention pertains to an automated system for the continuous packaging of mechanically sensitive items, which, due to their physical characteristics or mechanical sensitivity, require individualized, unitary packaging. The packaging process is automated and independent of the size and dimensions of the items being packaged. The packing material, herein referred to as packing tape, is supplied vertically, enveloping the items laterally, which contrasts with the top and bottom wrapping found in prior art solutions.

[0023] The operation of the packaging line is interrupted under two circumstances: the first is depletion of the available supply of packing tapes, and the second is the requirement to adjust the dimensions of the packing tapes to accommodate the size of the items being packaged.

[0024] The invention was conceived to meet the demands of small-scale production of mechanically sensitive items with varying dimensions, intended for layered palletization.

[0025] The system was developed to include packing tape feeders that operate under the control of a system that automatically detects the dimensions of the packaged item and adjusts the spacing between items according to the packaging and palletizing requirements.

[0026] The invention provides a system for the unitary packaging of a stream of mechanically sensitive items 101 conveyed by a belt conveyor 110 and aligned into a linear stream, i.e., one item after another with some distance between the items, by a positioning module 120. The system is characterized by including at least two packing tape feeders 130 that supply a packing tape 131 for each side of the stream of items 101; an item position stabilization module 140 for securing the item once it is encircled by packing tape 131 when connecting packing tapes 131 from at least two packing tape feeders 130; a packing tape joining module 150 for affixing packing tapes 131 together behind the item 101 held by the item position stabilization module 140; and a controller 102 configured to synchronize the operation of the system's components and modulate the speed of the belt conveyor 110, as depicted in Fig. 1.

[0027] The system employs a packing tape feeder 130 on each side of the stream of items 101. The packing tapes 131 are the material in which the final product is encased. The packing tape feeders 130 dispense the material in ribbon form, either from rolls or pre-folded from boxes. The packing tapes 131 can be made of a suitable packing material such as paper, cardboard, corrugated cardboard, fleece, non-woven fabric, woven fabric, non-woven plastic, plastic foil, or bubble foil. The dimensions, width, and mass of the packing tape 131 are contingent on the packaging requirements and the dimensions of the items 101 to be packaged.

[0028] The packing tape joining module 150 connects the left and right packing tapes 131 to form a collective package containing multiple items 101 secured laterally by the packing tape 131. The joining technique for the packing tapes is dependent on the material of the tapes and may encompass sealing, welding, melting, stapling, gluing, or other methods. For instance, sealing, welding, or melting can be executed by a heating element situated at the ends of the arms of the joining module 150 that press the packing tapes 131 together, affecting the tapes from the exterior. Alternatively, a stapler may be incorporated into one or both arms of the joining module 150 to apply staples or other mechanical fasteners to the tapes. Additionally, the packing tape joining module 150 can be equipped with a vertically movable arm 180 that is equipped with a heater or adhesive applicator to apply heat or adhesive to the inner faces of the packing tapes 131 before they are pressed together. This is achieved by initially positioning the arm 180 between the packing tapes 131, clamping the tapes 131 onto it, and then elevating the applicator 180 and compressing the packing tapes 131 together, as illustrated in Fig. 5.

[0029] The system may also include a packaged item transport module that conveys the bulk package containing the packaged products to the palletizing or further packaging module. This module can also regulate the velocity of the packaged items stream. The module for transporting packed items facilitates the movement of a web of packed items in packing tapes independently of the conveyor belt 110, while simultaneously controlling the speed of the web's movement. This system transports packed items to the packaging or palletizing module.

[0030] During operation, the stream of items progresses along the conveyor belt 110 toward the positioning module 120, the item position stabilization module 140, and the packing tape joining module 150. The packing tape feeders 130 maintain a supply of packing tapes 131 of the appropriate type. When the system is activated, packing tapes 131 are threaded through the belt tension roller module 160 for both the left and right sides. The packing tapes 131 are supplied from the left and right sides of the conveyor belts 110 in a vertical orientation. The initial joining of the packing tapes occurs in the packing tape joining module 150, which includes a suitable set of tools depending on the type of packing tapes 131 used. For example, with paper tapes, a set of tools for stitching or gluing paper materials may be utilized, whereas with plastic tapes, a set of tools for stitching or spot sealing across the width of the tape may be employed.

[0031] The system awaits the first item to be correctly positioned. The position sensor 170 detects the presence of the item and its correct positioning within the item position stabilization module 140, as shown in Fig. 4. The presence of the item can be determined by various types of position sensors 170, such as color sensors, distance sensors, material type recognition sensors, laser profilers, vision cameras, etc. Based on the signal from the position sensor 170 and the speed of the conveyor belt 110, the controller 102 can ascertain the precise location of the currently packaged item 101. Once the item reaches the appropriate position, the packing tape joining module 150 performs the joining of the packing tape 131 behind the packed item. The item then moves onto the roller conveyor 190 and is captured by the packaged item transport module. The packaged item transport module, for instance, a chain gripper conveyor, allows the packed item string to be transported and the speed of its movement to be adjusted without compromising the integrity of the package. The movement and speed of the web of packed items are regulated by the packaged item transport module, which adjusts them as needed. At predetermined intervals, based on the number of packed items or a set distance, the packing tape joining module 150 makes two connections of the ribbons with an adjustable gap. This step is necessary to facilitate cutting the web or arranging the packed items in multiple rows. The web of packed items is then conveyed from the roller conveyor 190 to the packing and palletizing module.

[0032] Figures 2 and 3 illustrate embodiments of the invention that utilize paper belts with one side pre-coated with water-activated adhesive. These figures schematically demonstrate the implementation of the system with the conceptual elements of the described system indicated. The packing tapes 131 are stored in the packing tape feeders 130. Items 101 arriving on the conveyor belt 110 are positioned using the positioning module, which may also serve as the belt tension roller module 160, integrating both functions. The item position stabilization module 140 employs position sensors 170 such as optical sensors to ascertain the correct positioning of the packed item. Upon confirmation of the item's presence, the system moistens the packing tapes 131 and presses them together for adhesion in the packing tape joining module 150. The items, encased in the lateral tapes, are moved by a ramp to the bulk packaging area. The ramp is an example of a packaged item transport module, though it is not the only possible technical solution for the system.

[0033] The invention also provides a method for the unitary packaging of a stream of mechanically sensitive items 101 conveyed by a belt conveyor 110 and organized by a positioning module 120 using the system described herein. The method includes the steps of delivering 201 the items 101 to the belt conveyor 110; moving 202 each item 101 on the belt conveyor 110 into a position between the packing tapes 131; securing 203 the item 101 surrounded by the packing tapes 131 using the item position stabilization module 140; and affixing 204 the packing tapes 131 behind the item 101 held by the item position stabilization module 140 using the packing tape joining module 150.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0021]The following detailed description outlines the most currently contemplated modes of carrying out the invention. This description is not to be taken in a limiting sense but is made merely to describe the general principles of the invention.

[0022]The invention pertains to an automated system for the continuous packaging of mechanically sensitive items, which, due to their physical characteristics or mechanical sensitivity, require individualized, unitary packaging. The packaging process is automated and independent of the size and dimensions of the items being packaged. The packing material, herein referred to as packing tape, is supplied vertically, enveloping the items laterally, which contrasts with the top and bottom wrapping found in prior art solutions.

[0023]The operation of the packaging line is interrupted under two circumstances: the first is depletion of the available supply of packing tapes, and the second is the requirement to adjust the dimensions of the packing ta...

Claims

1. A system for unitary packaging of a stream of individual items (101) moved on a belt conveyor (110), characterized in that it comprises: - at least two packing tape feeders (130) configured to provide at least one packing tape (131) along each side of the stream of the items (101); - an item position stabilization module (140) configured to hold still the frontmost individual item (101) of the stream of items (101) to be packaged as it is surrounded on the sides by the packing tapes (131); - a packing tape joining module (150) for joining the packing tapes (131) in a position between the item (101) held by the item position stabilization module (140) and its adjacent item (101) downstream; and - a controller (102) configured to coordinate the operation of the system.

2. The system according to claim 1, further comprising a positioning module (120) for aligning the individual items (101) to form a linear stream on the belt conveyor (110).

3. The system according to any of the previous claims, further comprising a belt tension roller module (160) configured to maintain a predefined tension of the dispensing packing tape (131) from the packing tape feeders (130).

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein the belt tension roller module (160) is integrated with the positioning module (120).

5. The system according to any of the previous claims, wherein the packing tapes (131) are fed with their surface perpendicular to the belt conveyor (110).

6. The system according to any of the previous claims, further comprising a position sensor (170) attached above the item position stabilization module (140) for determining the position of the packed item (101) while holding the item (101).

7. The system according to any of the previous claims, further comprising an adhesive applicator (180) configured to apply an adhesive to the surfaces of the packing tapes (131) that are to be joined by the packing tape joining module (150).

8. The system according to any of the previous claims, wherein the packing tape joining module comprises a stapler configured to join the packing tapes (131) by staples.

9. The system according to any of the previous claims, wherein the packing tape (131) is made of paper, cardboard, corrugated cardboard, non-woven plastic, plastic foil, or bubble foil.

10. A method for the unitary packaging of a stream of individual items (101) moved on a belt conveyor (110) by means of a system according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that it comprises the steps of: - delivering (201) the items (101) to the belt conveyor (110); - moving (202) consecutive items (101) on the belt conveyor (110) into a position between packaging tapes (131); - holding (203) the item (101) surrounded by the packaging tapes (131) by the item position stabilization module (140); - joining (204) the packing tapes (131) in a position between the item (101) held by the item position stabilization module (140) and its adjacent item (101) downstream by the packing tape joining module (150).

Images