Clipping tool arrangement having linearly movable closure tool and die

Abstract

The invention relates to a clipping tool assembly (1) for closing a closure clip (C) comprising: a first closing tool (24) and a die (26) for applying the clip (C) at a plait-like portion (PP) of a packaging (P); a die drive (52) for reversibly moving the die (26) linearly along a die axis (AD); a tool drive (54) for reversibly moving the first closing tool (24) linearly along a closing axis(AC); wherein the clipping tool assembly (1) is configured to close the clip (c) at the plait-like portion (PP) when the first closing tool (24) is moved towards the die (26); and wherein the die axis (AD) and the closing axis (AC) intersect each other in the closing region (4). The invention further relates to packaging machine having such a clipping tool assembly (1) and to the use of a clipping tool assembly (1).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a clipping tool assembly for closing at least one closure means, like a closure clip. Such a clipping tool assembly can be employed in a packaging machine for closing tubular or bag-shaped packagings. Bag-shaped packagings, such as net bags, are often used for produce like fruit or vegetables.

[0002] Conventional packaging machines for packaging incoherent fillings like fruit or vegetables in tubular packaging material from a continuous supply generally operate in one of two techniques. According to a first technique, partially formed packages, generally in the form of bags open at one end, are formed and severed from the continuous supply of tubular material prior to filling. The open bags may be stored for subsequent use or may immediately be filled. This pre-fabrication of tubular or bag-shaped packagings necessitates the handling of the severed lengths of tubular packaging material forming the open bags. Since the packaging material is often thin and flexible their handling is challenging. The second technique overcomes this difficulty by filling the package prior to severing the packaging material from the tubular supply. According to the second technique, a length of the tubular packaging material is gathered onto a sleeve-like filling pipe and the filling is inserted through the filling pipe. Closure means, such as closure clip, are applied to close the packaging and to form a sausage-like or bag-shaped package.

[0003] In particular when packaging incoherent fillings such as fruit or vegetables, the packaging is usually not filled completely. This allows the fruit or vegetables contained in the packaging to move and prevents damages to the fruit and vegetables. The packaging material therefore comprises slack which presents challenges when applying closure means. Moreover, tubular or bag-shaped packagings for incoherent fillings like produce are often relatively large and the clipping tool assembly used for closing such packagings needs to be adapted to the size. For example, a clipping tool assembly needs to provide a large enough are for filling the packaging. However, this requires adaptations of the clipping tool assembly, which can lead to reduced cycle rates of the clipping tool assembly. Through this filling speed of conventional packaging machines can be limited by the clipping tool assembly.

[0004] Therefore there is a need for clipping tool assemblies that are suited for closing at least one closure means, like a closure clip, in a packaging machine for closing tubular or bag-shaped packagings containing filling, in particular an incoherent filling like fruit or vegetables, which allows for high cycle rates.

[0005] According to a first aspect, the present invention solves this problem with a clipping tool assembly according to claim 1. In particular, the invention solves the problem with a clipping tool assembly for closing at least one closure means, like a closure clip, in a packaging machine for closing tubular or bag-shaped packagings containing filling, in particular an incoherent filling like fruit or vegetables, the clipping tool assembly comprising: a first closing tool and a die for applying the at least one closure means at a plait-like portion of a packaging, the plait-like portion extending through a closing region of the clipping tool assembly along a filling axis; a die drive for reversibly moving the die linearly along a die axis between a neutral position and an engagement position in the closing region; a tool drive for reversibly moving the first closing tool linearly along a closing axis from an open position to a closing position in the closing region; wherein when the die is in the engagement position, the clipping tool assembly is configured to close the at least one closure means at the plait-like portion of the packaging when the first closing tool is moved towards the die; and wherein the die axis and the closing axis intersect each other in the closing region. By arranging the closing axis and die axis such that they intersect each other in the closing region, a very compact design of the clipping tool assembly can be achieved. This can help reduce the travel of the die and / or the first closing tool and can reduce the cycle time. An overall cycle rate can be increased. The linear movement of the first closing tool and the die minimizes the distance the respective component has to travel during operation. Through this, the inventive clipping tool assembly can allow for increased work cycle rates without increasing the movement speed and / or acceleration of its components.

[0006] For closing a closure clip around a plait-like portion of a packaging, the open closure clip is first positioned around the plait-like portion and then closed. For closing the closure clip, the first closing tool pushes the closure clip against or into the die. Through this, legs of the closure clip are deformed and bent around the plait-like portion such that the packaging is closed with the clip. The portion of the die engaging the closure means is preferably a die surface. The die axis extends through the die, s. It shall be noted that the clipping tool assembly can comprise multiple dies for engaging multiple closure clips and that in such cases multiple die axis can be defined for the clipping tool assembly (i.e. one die axis for each die portion). In some embodiments, a single die can be provided for engaging multiple closure means. Preferably the die axis and the closing axis are non-parallel.

[0007] The first closing tool can be a stamp or punch. The closing tool can be configured for supplying the closure means to the closing region and for closing the closure means. Preferably, the first closing tool is configured to at least partially carry or transport a closure means from a feed position to the closing region. For example, the closing tool can pass the feed position and can push a closure means from the feed position towards the closing region as well as towards the die positioned in the closing region in its engagement position.

[0008] Preferably, the first tool and / or the die are positively guided. For example, at least one first tool guide, such as a guide rail, can be provided for the closing tool. The first tool guide can guide the linear movement of the first closing tool from the open position to the closing position and can preferably restrict movement in other directions. The first tool guide can define the closing axis. The clipping tool can additionally or alternatively comprise a die guide, such as a guide rail, for guiding the die. It shall be understood that the die guide can but must not directly guide the die. In preferred embodiments, the die can be attached to and / or received in a component or assembly that connects the die to the die guide. Movement of the die from the neutral position to the engagement position can be guided by the die guide. The die guide can define the die axis.

[0009] The die can be directly or indirectly connected to the die drive. For example and preferably, the die can be attached to and / or received in an additional component which is driven by the die drive.

[0010] The filling axis is generally defined by the plait-like portion extending through the closing region. The filling axis extends along the plait-like portion in a direction in which the filling is filled into the packaging. If the filling is provided into the packaging through a filling pipe, the longitudinal axis of the filling pipe generally defines the filling axis. The filling axis is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the packaging material prior to filling and closing. It shall be understood that the actual position of the plait-like portion of the packaging can vary during operation and that the filling axis dis defined by an ideal plait-like portion extending perfectly straight through the closing region.

[0011] The closing region is a region of the clipping tool assembly in which the first closing tool and the die collaborate to close the closure means. It shall be understood that the closing region can be an open space defined by the clipping tool, the die and / or other elements or portions of the clipping tool assembly. Usually the plait-like portion of the packaging to be closed is located in the closure region and the closing tool as well as the die are moved to the closing region for closing the closure means at the plait-like portion.

[0012] The neutral position preferably is a position of the die, in which the positioning of the die allows formation of the plait-like portion of the packaging in the closing region and / or insertion of the plait-like portion into the closing region. When in the engagement position, the die can be engaged by the closing tool for closing the closure means. It shall be understood that the closing tool and the die must not contact each other for closing the closure means. For example, a small gap can be provided between the closing tool and the die during an entire closing operation. Such a gap can reduce wear on the closing tool and the die.

[0013] In a preferred first embodiment, the die axis intersects the closing axis at an axis angle in a range of 30° to 90°, preferably in a range of 40° to 90°, preferably in a range of 50° to 90°, preferably in a range of 60° to 90°, preferably in a range of 65° to 90°, preferably in a range of 70° to 90°, preferably in a range of 75° to 90°, preferably in a range of 80° to 90°, particularly preferred in a range of 85° to 90°, wherein edges of the ranges are also preferred. The axis angle is measured in a plane perpendicular to the filling axis and is the smaller one of the angles formed between the die axis and the closing axis. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the die axis is perpendicular to the closing axis.

[0014] Preferably the clipping tool assembly further comprises a controller. The controller can be configured for controlling the die drive and / or the tool drive. The controller is preferably configured to control the die drive and the tool drive such that a movement of the die between the neutral position and the engagement position and of the first closing tool between the open position and the closing position is at least partially sequential. The movements of the die and the closing tool are at least partially sequential if the die drive and the tool drive are controlled such that at least during a portion of a movement of the die, the first closing tool is stationary or vice versa. Preferably, the controller is configured to initiate movement of the die from the neutral position to the engagement position prior to movement of the first closing tool from the open position to the closing position. Preferably, the controller is configured to control the die drive and the tool drive such that the movement of the first closing tool towards the die is started after the die has reached the engagement position. Through this an engagement between the die and the closing tool before the die reaches its engagement position can be prevented. Moreover, forces on the die during its movement are minimized. This can help to minimize wear on the die and / or a die guide.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the clipping tool assembly further comprises gathering means for forming the plait-like portion of the packaging. The gathering means can comprise a first gathering tool and a second gathering tool, wherein the first gathering tool is movable in a direction towards the second gathering tool along a gathering axis for gathering packaging material and forming the plait-like portion of the packaging. The first gathering tool and / or the second gathering tool can be formed as or comprise a gathering plate. The gathering plate can be substantially planar in a direction perpendicular to the filling axis. The gathering plate can comprise a gathering contour. Preferably, the first gathering tool and the second gathering tool each comprise a sloped gathering contour. The sloped gathering contour of the first gathering tool and the second gathering tool preferably slope in opposite directions.

[0016] At least the first gathering tool is movable towards the second gathering tool. It shall be understood that a first gathering tool movable towards a second gathering tool can be advanced in a direction towards the second gathering tool but must not necessarily contact the second gathering tool. Preferably, the first gathering tool can be configured to closely pass the second gathering means. For example, a first gathering plate can be passed by a second gathering plate in a scissor-like manner. In preferred embodiments, both the first gathering tool as well as the second gathering tool can be movable. For example, open sides of conical gathering contours of a first gathering plate and a second gathering plate can be oriented towards each other. Packaging material can be captured between the open sides of the conical gathering contours of the first gathering tool and the second gathering tool. By advancing the gathering tools towards each other, the inner width of the free gathering contour reduces such that the packaging material is gathered together and the plait-like portion is formed.

[0017] Preferably, the gathering axis is parallel to the closing axis. In such embodiments, the first gathering tool can be reversibly movable parallel to the first closing tool. Preferably, the first gathering tool is configured to move in a first direction along the gathering axis for forming the plait-like portion of the packaging and the first closing tool is configured to move in a second direction opposite to the first direction when moving from the open position to the closing position. In some embodiments, the gathering axis and the closing axis can be congruent. The gathering axis and closing axis being parallel allows for a compact design of the clipping tool assembly while providing enough space to quickly fill large pieces of a filling into the packaging.

[0018] In a preferred further development, the second gathering tool of the gathering means is stationary. Providing a stationary second gathering tool facilitates control and can reduce overall cost of the clipping tool assembly. Moreover, providing the plait-like portion at the correct position in the closing region can be facilitated if only one of the gathering tools is movable.

[0019] Preferably, the filling axis is perpendicular to the closing axis and / or the die axis. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the filling axis, the closing axis and the die axis are all perpendicular to each other. Providing the filling axis perpendicular to the closing axis and the die axis allows for a compact design of the clipping tool assembly.

[0020] The clipping tool assembly preferably further comprises a die holder for holding the die. The die holder and the die are jointly movable along the die axis. Preferably, the die holder and the die are separate elements. This allows to quickly exchange worn out dies or to exchange the die if a closure means requiring another dies is used. The die can be fixed to the die holder. In particular, the die can be fixed to the die holder via screws, positive locking or friction. Preferably, the die holder is directly or indirectly movable by the die drive. For example and preferably, the die holder can be connected to a push-pull rod of the die drive. When driven by the die drive, the die holder can carry the die along the die axis. In particularly preferred embodiments, the die is at least partially received in the die holder. The die holder can comprises a die cavity, wherein the die can be partially received in the die cavity. The die can protrude from the die holder, in particular along the closing axis. However, in other embodiments, the die can also be fully received in the die holder. The die cavity of the die preferably surrounds the die on at least four sides. The die cavity can have a lateral opening and a working opening. The working opening can be oriented towards the closing axis. For example the closing axis can extend through the working opening when the die is in the engagement position. An opening plane of the die can be perpendicular to the closing axis and / or substantially parallel to the die axis. The lateral opening can be provided for inserting the die into the die cavity. Preferably, the die holder comprises a cover for closing the lateral opening. The cover can be screwed to the die holder. In other preferred embodiments, the die and the die holder can be formed as a single piece.

[0021] In a preferred configuration, the clipping tool assembly further comprises a support for supporting the die holder when the die is in the engagement position. In other preferred embodiments, the support can directly support the die in the engagement position. The support can engage the die holder when the die is in the engagement position. For closing the closure means, the closure means has to be deformed. For example, legs of a closure clip are tightly bent around the plait-like portion in order to close the packaging. For deforming the closure means, the first closing tool provides a force to the closure means. At least some of this closing force is transferred to the die and the die holder. The support can at least partially receive such forces on the die and / or the die holder and can thereby prevent deformation of the die or die holder and / or movement of the die or the die holder away from the first closing tool during the closing process. Through this, the support can increase a lifetime of the clipping tool assembly, increase reliability and / or reduce operating cost. Moreover, the risk of incorrectly closed packagings is reduced as the die can be positioned in the engagement position with higher accuracy. Preferably, the support is at least partially adjustable. For example and preferably, the support can be formed by or comprise an adjustment screw.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the support comprises a support pin and the die and / or the die holder comprises a receiving cavity. The support pin is configured to engage the receiving cavity at least when the die is in the engagement position. A support pin being received in a cavity of the die and / or die holder allows for a very exact positioning of the die. This can reduce a flex of the die and / or die holder during the process of closing a closure means and can reduce the amount of incorrectly closed packagings. Preferably, the pin is at least partial cylindrical and the inner cavity at least partially is a round bore. The outer diameter of the bore preferably substantially matches the inner diameter of the inner cavity. However, small clearance may be provided to reduce friction. Preferably, the support pin comprises a tapered or frustoconical tip. The tip of the pin is oriented towards the die and / or die holder. The tapered or frustoconical tip can help aligning the tip with the receiving cavity. Preferably, the support is a stationary support. A stationary support is not actively moved during the closing operation of the clipping tool assembly. However, the support can also be formed as a movable support that is configured to move into contact with the die and / or die holder before the closure clip is closed. Preferably, the support pin extends parallel to the die axis.

[0023] When viewed along the filling axis, the die holder is preferably substantially u-shaped. In case the die holder and the die are formed as a single-piece, this single piece can be substantially u-shaped when viewed along the filling axis. When the die is in the neutral position, an open side of the u-shape is preferably oriented towards the closing region or a plate-like portion positioned in the closing region respectively. When the die is moved to the closing region, the u-shaped die holder can surround the plate-like portion. A support leg of the u-shaped die holder is preferably positioned outside the closing region. This support leg can then be configured for guiding the die without interfering with the plait-like portion. The die can be provided at a die leg of the die holder. Preferably, holding section or bottom of a gathering contour of the gathering means is provided between the support leg and the die leg of the u-shaped die holder. The holding section or bottom of the gathering contour is the portion of the gathering means where the plate-like portion is formed. The u-shaped die holder is preferably configured to surround the plait-like portion extending through the closing region when the die is in the engagement position.

[0024] Preferably, the closing region is open towards a gathering side when the die is in the neutral position and wherein the closing region is closed at the gathering side by a die leg of the u-shaped die holder when the die is in the engagement position. The gathering side can be a side of the closing region through which the portion of the packaging that is gathered to form the plate-like portion is positioned in the closing region. Preferably, the gathering side is the side of the closing region at which the first gathering tool of the gathering means is positioned.

[0025] In a preferred further development of the clipping tool assembly, a support leg of the u-shaped die holder is supported by at least one guide rail on a tool side of the closing region opposite the gathering side. The tool side is the side of the closing region at which the first closing tool is positioned when the first closing tool is in the open position. Preferably, the clipping tool assembly comprises two guide rails for supporting the support leg of the die holder. Preferably, the two guide rails are positioned on opposite sides of the support leg.

[0026] Preferably, a thickness of the support leg of the die holder along the filling axis is smaller than a thickness of the die leg, such that the first closing tool can pass the support leg when being moved towards the closing position along the closing axis and such that the first tool can engage the die leg (or the die provided on the die leg respectively) for closing the closure means. Preferably, a thickness of the die holder at the die leg(s) is bigger than a thickness of the die holder at the support leg. The die leg is the leg of the u-shaped die holder on which the die is provided. The relatively thinner support leg allows movement of the first closing tool past the support leg. Through this, the clipping tool assembly can have a very compact design. Moreover, the u-shaped die holder can be supported close to its center portion which may increase stability of the die.

[0027] In preferred embodiments, the clipping tool assembly further comprises a second closing tool for closing a second closure means. The second closing tool can be movable from a second open position to a second closing position. The second closing tool can be linearly movable from the second open position to the second closing position along a second closing axis. The second closing axis is preferably parallel to the first closing axis. The second open position and the second closing position can be analogously positioned to the first open position and the first closing position (i.e. at the same relative height along the closing axis). A travel of the second closing tool along the second closing axis can be identical to a travel of the first closing tool along the first closing axis. Preferably, the clipping tool assembly comprises a first die and a second die, wherein the first closing tool engages the first die for closing the first closure means and wherein the second closing tool engages the second die for closing the second closure means. The first die and the second die can be provided on the same die holder or be formed uniformly with the die holder. In other embodiments, a separate die holder can be provided for each die. In preferred further developments, the first die is provided on a first die leg of the die holder and the second die is provided on a second die leg of the die holder spaced from the first die leg along the filling axis. The second closing tool preferably is or comprises a stamp or punch.

[0028] A clipping tool assembly having two closing tools can be a double clipping tool assembly. The first clipping tool and the second clipping tool can be individually movable. Preferably, the first clipping tool and the second clipping tool are uniformly movable together. The tool drive can be configured to move both the first closing tool and the second closing tool. In other embodiments, a separate tool drive can be provided for each of the closing tools. The first closing tool and the second closing tool can be integrally formed or can be separate closing tools. It shall be understood that the second closing tool and the second die can be formed substantially identical to the first closing tool and the first die.

[0029] The first closing tool and the second closing tool are preferably configured to pass the support leg of the die holder on opposite sides when moving from the open position to the closing position and vice versa. The support leg can then be positioned between the first closing tool and the second closing tool. This can facilitate the support of the die holder and the die respectively and can reduce or eliminate a torque on the die holder resulting from forces transferred to the die via the first closing tool and the second closing tool.

[0030] In some embodiments, the clipping tool assembly comprises a cutting means for cutting the packaging at the plait-like portion. The cutting means can be movable along a cutting axis that is parallel to the die axis. The cutting means can comprise a blade. Preferably, the blade is angled relative to the cutting axis at a blade angle different than 90°. The cutting means can be provided to separate a filled and closed packaging from a supply of packaging material.

[0031] The die holder and / or the die preferably comprises an aperture. In case the die and the die holder are formed as a single piece, this single piece can comprise a respective aperture. The aperture can extend through the die and / or the die holder along the cutting axis. The cutting means is preferably at least partially movable through the aperture for cutting the packaging at the plait-like portion. Moving the cutting means through the die holder and / or the die allows for a very compact design of the clipping tool assembly. A travel of the cutting means required for cutting the packaging can be reduced such that a cycle rate of the clipping tool assembly can be increased. This can increase the overall productivity of a packaging machine having one or more of the inventive clipping tool assemblies.

[0032] Preferably, the clipping tool assembly further includes a pusher means for pushing the closure means just closed out of the die. The pusher means can be a mechanical pusher that pushes the closure means just closed out of the die. Such a mechanical pusher can extend through the die and / or the die holder. The mechanical pusher is preferably actuated pneumatically, magnetically or by an electric motor. Preferably, the clipping tool assembly comprises a pusher, such as a mechanical pusher, for each die. By providing a pusher means for pushing the closure means just closed out of the die, manually removing a closure means that is jammed in the die is not necessary. Thus, the packaging is securely prevented from being damaged and the closure clip is securely removed from the die. An overall availability of the clipping tool assembly can be increased.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment, the pusher means is or comprises a pneumatic pusher means. The pneumatic pusher means preferably comprises a pusher channel at least partially extending through the die and opening to a die surface of the die. The die surface is the surface of the die contacts (is configured to contact) the closure means during operation of the clipping tool assembly. The pusher channel is directly or indirectly coupled to a pressure source. An indirect coupling comprises one or more intermediate components such as a conduit, a hose, a pipe, a manifold, a valve or the like. Preferably, the pneumatic pusher means is configured to discharge pressurized air out of the pusher channel for urging the closure means just closed out of the die. The pneumatic pusher means is configured to remove a closure clip just closed from the die by directing a strong airflow thereto. The pneumatic pusher can therefore blow a jammed closure clip out of the die. The pneumatic removal of the closure means just closed form the die can be supported by gravity if the die is positioned accordingly. The pressure source can be a pressure tank, a compressor or the like.

[0034] According to a preferred further development, the pusher means comprises at least one flexible pressure line forming at least part of a fluid connection between the pusher channel and the pressure source, wherein the flexible pressure line is configured to compensate the movement of the die from the neutral position to the engagement position. The pressure source can then be stationary while the pusher channel moves together with the die. The flexible pressure line can be configured to stretch, when the die moves form the neutral positon to the engagement position. Preferably, the pressure line has slack when the die is in the neutral position. When the die is in the engagement position, the pressure line can be substantially taut.

[0035] According to a second aspect, the invention solves the above-mentioned problem with a packaging machine for producing filled tubular or bag-shaped packagings. The packaging machine is preferably configured to inserting a filling, in particular an incoherent filling like fruit or vegetables, into a tubular or bag-shaped packaging and to close said packaging by a closure means, like a closure clip. Preferably, the clipping machine comprises a clipping tool assembly according to any of the above-described preferred embodiments. Therefore, reference is made to the above description of the preferred further configurations of the clipping tool assembly.

[0036] In a third aspect, the invention solves the above-mentioned problem with the use of a clipping tool assembly according to any of the above-described preferred embodiments of the first aspect of the invention in a packaging machine for closing tubular or bag-shaped packagings by at least one closure means, like a closure clip.

[0037] According to a fourth aspect, the invention solves the above-mentioned problem with a method for at least partially closing at least one packaging with a closure means using a clipping tool assembly, preferably a clipping tool assembly according to any of the preferred embodiments of the clipping tool assembly according to the first aspect of the invention. The method comprising the steps: gathering a portion of a packaging material to form a plait-like portion of the packaging in a closing region of the clipping tool assembly; linearly moving a die of the clipping tool assembly along a die axis from a neutral position, in which the position of the die allows the plait-like portion to be positioned and / or gathered in the closing region, to an engagement position of the die in the closing region; providing at least one closure means, preferably a closure clip, to the clipping tool assembly; and linearly moving a first clipping tool of the clipping tool assembly towards the die along a closing axis from an open position to a closing position in the closing region for applying the at least one closure means to the plait-like portion. The first closing tool and the die collaborate for closing the closure means. Preferably, movement of the first closing tool towards the die, which is in the engagement position, presses the closure means against the die when the first closing tool advances its closing position. When the first closing tool reaches its closing position, the closure means is fully deformed and closes the packaging at the plait-like portion. It shall be understood that the closure means is applied to the plait-like portion for closing the packaging. Preferably, the closure means at least partially, preferably fully, surrounds the plait-like portion for closing the packaging. Additionally or alternatively, a part of the closure means can extend through the plait-like portion or pierce the plait-like portion. Preferably, the die axis and the closure axis intersect each other in the closing region. In preferred embodiments, the die and the first closing tool are moved at least partially sequential. The die and the first closing tool move sequential, when one of the die and the first closing tool moves while the other of the die and the first closing tool is stationary. Preferably, the die and the first closing tool move fully sequential. For example and preferably, movement of the first closing tool along the closing axis is started only after the die has reached the engagement position.

[0038] For a more complete understanding of the invention, the invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The detailed description will illustrate and describe what is considered as a preferred embodiment of the invention. It should of course be understood that various modifications and changes in form or detail could readily be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. It is therefore intended that the invention may not be limited to the exact form and detail shown and described herein, nor to anything less than the whole of the invention disclosed herein and as claimed herein after. Further, the features described in the description, the drawings and the claims disclosing the invention may be essential for the invention considered alone or in combination. In particular, any reference signs in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. The wording "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps. The word "a" or "an" does not exclude the plurality. The wording "a number of' items comprising also the number 1, i.e. a single item, and further numbers like 2, 3, 4 and so forth.

[0039] In the accompanying drawings some elements or parts of the clipping tool assembly can be omitted for illustrative purposes. In the accompanying drawings: Fig. 1is a schematic view of a clipping tool assembly; Fig. 2is a schematic view of the clipping tool assembly perpendicular to the view of Fig. 1; Fig. 3is a detail view of a section of the clipping tool assembly with gathering means removed and a die of the clipping tool assembly in a neutral position; Fig. 4shows a similar view to Fig. 3 but with the die of the clipping tool assembly in an engagement position; Fig. 5shows a similar view to Figs. 3 and 4 but with a portion of a main body of the clipping tool assembly removed; Fig. 6shows a schematic and perspective view of the clipping tool assembly illustrating movement of a first clipping tool and a second clipping tool of the clipping tool assembly; Fig. 7is a view of the die of the clipping tool assembly along a die axis; Fig. 8is a cut view of the clipping tool assembly illustrating pusher means for removing a closure clip just closed out of the die; Fig. 9is a detail view of the die and the die holder illustrating the functionality of a pneumatic pusher means of the clipping tool assembly, wherein the die holder and the die are shown transparent for illustrative purposes; and Fig. 10is a lateral view of the die along a filling axis of the clipping tool assembly illustrating an adjustment mechanism of the die.

[0040] Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a clipping tool assembly 1 for closing at least one closure means, like a closure clip C in a packaging machine (the packaging machine is not shown in the figures). The clipping tool assembly 1, which may also be referred to as clipping head, comprises gathering means 2 for gathering packaging material. For example, the clipping tool assembly 1 can be used for closing net bags that are filled with fruit or vegetables. Incoherent fillings like large fruit, such as oranges, provide challenges to the gathering means 2 as the gathering means 2 must provide enough clearance to allow the filling to be filled into the packaging P. The gathering means 2 is configured to gather a tubular or bag-shaped packaging material, such as a packaging net, together to form a plait-like portion PP in a closing region 4. The plait-like portion PP of the packaging P extends through the closing region 4 of the clipping tool assembly 100 along a filling axis AF. In Fig. 1, the filling axis is perpendicular to the image plane.

[0041] The gathering means 2 comprises a first gathering tool 6 and a second gathering tool 8. In the embodiment of Fig. 1, the first and second gathering tools 6, 8 are formed as gathering plates 10, 12. The gathering plates 10, 12 are arranged perpendicular to the filling axis AF and each comprise a gathering contour 14. A section of each of the gathering contours 14 of the gathering plates 10, 12 is tapered. These sections form so called tapered sections 16 of the gathering contours 14. On the base of each gathering contour a holding section 18 is provided. For forming the plait-like portion PP of the packaging P, the first gathering tool 6 is movable relative to the second gathering tool 8. Here, the second gathering tool 8 is a stationary gathering tool that is fixed to a main body 20 of the clipping tool assembly 1. In other embodiments, the stationary gathering tool 8 can be fixed to other components of the clipping tool assembly 1 and / or the packaging machine. The first gathering tool 6 is reversibly movable along a gathering axis AG. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1, the gathering axis AG is vertical. In the present example embodiment and preferably, the gathering axis AG and the filling axis AF are perpendicular to each other and intersect in the closing region 4. The first gathering plate 10 can be guide by one or more guide rails or the like.

[0042] In Fig. 1, the first gathering tool 6 is shown in an intermediate position between a fully open position and a gathered position. In the fully open position, the first gathering tool 6 is moved away from the second gathering tool 8 along the gathering axis AG such that a free width W between the first gathering tool 6 and the second gathering tool 8 is maximized. Preferably, the tapered sections 16 of the first gathering tool 6 and the second gathering tool 8 overlap each other when the first gathering tool 6 is in the fully open position. An overlap of the tapered sections 16 of the first gathering tool 6 and the second gathering tool 8 prevents the packaging P from slipping out of a gathering area formed between the gathering tools 6, 8.

[0043] By moving the first gathering tool 6 towards the second gathering tool 8 along the gathering axis AG, the free width W is reduced as the oppositely oriented tapered sections 16 of the first gathering tool 6 and the second gathering tool 8 overlap each other. It shall be understood that the first gathering tool 6 is advanced towards the second gathering tool 8 and closely passes the second gathering tool 8. The first gathering tool 6 and the second gathering tool 8 a preferably arranged in a scissor-like form in which only a very small gap is provided between the first gathering tool 6 and the second gathering tool 8.

[0044] When the first gathering tool 6 is in the gathered position, the holding sections 18 of the first gathering tool 6 and the second gathering tool 8 overlap each other. The plait-like portion PP, which is formed by gathering the packaging P together through the motion of the first gathering plate 10 relative to the second gathering plate 12, is then arranged in the overlapping holding sections 18 of the first gathering tool 6 and the second gathering tool 8. Gathering means 2 are configured such that the overlapping holding sections 18 are aligned with the closing region 4 such that the plait-like portion extends through the closing region 4 of the clipping tool assembly 1. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1, the packaging P is pushed into the closing region 4 along the gathering axis AG from a gathering side 22.

[0045] In a method of producing a packaging P filled with an incoherent filling such as fruit or vegetables, a tubular section of packaging material P, which is closed at one end with a closure means, extends between the first and second gathering tool 6, 8. While the fist gathering tool 6 is in a fully or partially open position, the filling is filled into the tubular section of packaging material. The first gathering tool 6 is then advanced towards the second gathering tool 8 along the gathering axis AG such that the plait-like portion PP is formed in the closing region 4 of the clipping tool assembly 1. In a next step, the packaging P is closed at the plait-like portion P by a closure means such as a closure clip C.

[0046] For closing the closure clip C, the clipping tool assembly 1 comprises a first closing tool 24 and a die 26. The clipping tool assembly 1 shown in Fig. 1 is a so-called double clipping tool assembly 1 that is configured to apply two closure clip C to the plait-like portion PP. The two closure clip are preferably spaced apart from each other along the plait-like portion PP. Applying two closure clip C at once, allows to close a first end of a subsequent packaging P while closing a second end of the filled packaging P. For closing the second clip C, the clipping tool assembly 1 comprises a second closing tool 28. Here, the first closing tool 26 and the second closing tool 28 are formed as stamps. In the embodiment of Fig. 1, the second closing tool 28 engages a second die for closing the second closure clip C. The embodiment of the clipping tool assembly 1 shown in Fig. 1 therefore comprises two closing tools 24, 28 and two dies. In the preferred embodiment shown in the figures, the first die 26 and the second die (not shown) are provided at a die holder 27. The first die 26, the second die and the die holder 27 are formed as separate elements but could also be formed as a single-piece.

[0047] The die holder 27 holds the die 26. In the preferred embodiment, the die 26 is received in a die cavity 100 of the die holder 26 (Fig. 10). The holder 27 is movable along the die axis AD and carries the die 26 along the die axis AD such that the die 26 is also movable along the die axis AD. The die 26 and the die holder 27 jointly move along the die axis AD.

[0048] As shown in the side view of Fig. 2, the clipping tool assembly 1 further comprises second gathering means 34 (only a stationary gathering tool of the second gathering means 34 is shown). The second gathering means 34 preferably collaborates with the first gathering means 2 for forming the plait-like portion PP. Preferably, the second gathering means 34 moves uniformly with the gathering means 2. Providing two gathering means 2, 34 on opposite sides of the clipping tool assembly 1 allows to hold the plait-like portion P straight and facilitates application of the closure clip C to the plait-like portion P extending along the filling axis AF through the closing region 4.

[0049] Fig. 3 shows a view of a section of the clipping tool assembly 1 along the filling axis AF. For illustrative purposes, the gathering means 2 are not shown in Fig. 3. Operation of the clipping tool assembly 1 is described in the following with reference to the first closing tool 24. However, it shall be noted that the means for closing the second closure clip (the second closing tool and the second die) can be substantially identical to means for closing the closure clip C described in the following. Fig. 3 shows closure clip C in a feed position 36 in which closure clip C is provided to the clipping tool assembly 1, for example by a clip bar or from a clip reel. From the feed position 36, the closure clip C is transported to the closing region 4 by the first clipping tool 24 through a guide groove 38 in the main body 20 of the clipping tool assembly 1. The guide groove 38 also guides the clipping tool 24 along a closing axis AC. The first clipping tool 24 is reversibly movable along the closing axis AC from an open position 40 to a closing position 42 in the closing region 4. The feed position 36 is arranged between the open position 40 of the first closing tool 24 and the closing position 42 in a direction along the closing axis AC. The side from which the first tool 24 advances towards the closing region 4 is referred to as the tool side 44 of the clipping tool assembly 1. Here the tool side 44 is opposite the gathering side 22. This arrangement allows for a very compact design and can facilitate gathering of the packaging P.

[0050] In Fig. 3, the die 26 is shown in a neutral position 46. In the neutral position 46 the die 26 is removed from the closing region 4 and allows the plait-like portion PP of the packaging P to be provided into the closing region 4 from the gathering side 22. The die holder 27 is also removed from the closing region 4. In the embodiment of Fig. 3, the die 26 and the die holder 27 do not overlap the free are of the gathering means 22 defined by the gathering contour 14. The die 26 is reversibly movable from the neutral position 46 to an engagement position 48 in the closing region 4 shown in Fig. 4. Movement of the die 26 between the neutral position 46 and the engagement position 48 is a linear movement along a die axis AD. Here, the die axis AD is perpendicular to the closing axis AC as well as the filling axis AF. The die axis AD extends through the die 26, in particular through a die surface 30 of the die 26, and intersects the closing axis AC in the closing region 4. Since in the present embodiment the closing axis AC and the die axis AD are perpendicular to each other, the die axis AD and the closing axis AC intersect at an axis angle β of 90°.

[0051] A die drive 52 is provided for moving the die 26. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the die drive 52 indirectly moves the die 26 by moving the die holder 27. A tool drive 54 is provided for moving the first closing tool 24. In the embodiment shown in the figures, both the die drive 52 and the tool drive 54 are pneumatic drives. In other embodiments, electric drives or motors, magnetic drives, hydraulic drives or the like could also be used. Here, the die holder 27 is guided along the die axis AD to ensure linear movement.

[0052] Fig. 5 shows a section of the clipping tool assembly 1 similar to Figs. 1, 3 and 4 but with a portion of the main body 20 removed to further illustrate the inner structure of the clipping tool assembly 1 and with the die 26 in the neutral position 46. As shown in Fig. 5, the die holder 27 is substantially u-shaped when viewed along the filling axis AF or perpendicular to the die axis AD and the closing axis AC respectively. The u-shaped die holder 27 has a support leg 56 and a die leg 58. An open side of the u-shaped die holder 27 is oriented towards the closing region 4 when the die 26 and the u-shaped die holder 27 are in the neutral position 46. When in the engagement position 48, the u-shaped die holder 27 and in particular its die leg 58 and support leg 56 surround the closing region 4 on three sides. The die surface 30 of the die 26 is positioned in the closing region 4 when the die 26 is in the engagement position 48. Preferably, the die surface 30 configured for engaging the clip C is positioned at the intersection of the die axis AD and the closing axis AC when the die 26 is in the engagement position 48. The closure clip C can be pushed against the die surface 30 of the die 26 by the first closing tool 24 such that the closure clip C is closed around the plait-like portion PP of the packaging P. In the present embodiment, the die surface 30 is substantially semi-circular when viewed perpendicular to the die axis AD and the closing axis AC. In other embodiments, the first die portion 30 could also have other shapes. Preferably, the die surface 30 comprises grooves or the like to guide clip legs of the closure clip C during their deformation.

[0053] For guiding the die 26 and the die holder 27 along the die axis AD, the clipping tool assembly 1 comprises two guide rails 60 (only one guide rail 60 is shown in Fig. 5). However, it shall be understood that the clipping tool assembly 1 could also be formed without guide rails 60, with only one guide rail 60 or with more than two guide rails 60. Moreover, the die 26 could be directly guided by one or more guide rails 60. The guide rail 60 is attached to the main body 20 with screws but can in other embodiments be attached to other portions of the clipping tool assembly 1 and / or the packaging machine. Moreover, the guide rail 60 could also be integrally formed with the main body 20. In the embodiment of the clipping tool assembly 1 shown in the figures, the guide rails 60 define the orientation of the die axis AD. The support leg 56 of the die holder 27 comprises a corresponding support groove 62 that receives the guide rail 60 such that the support leg 56 can slide along the guide rail 60.

[0054] Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of the clipping tool assembly 1 in that multiple elements of the clipping tool assembly 1 have been omitted for illustrative purposes only. As can be inferred from the Fig. 6, the guide rails 60 are provided on opposite sides of the support leg 56 of the die holder 27. A push-pull rod 64 (see also Fig. 8) of the die drive 52 extends between the guide rails 60 and is attached to the die holder 27 for moving the die holder 27 along the guide rails 60 or the die axis AD respectively.

[0055] Fig. 6 further illustrates the first closing tool 24 and the second closing tool 28. For illustrative purposes, the first closing tool 24 and the second closing tool 28 are shown in different positions. While the first closing tool 24 is shown in the closing position 42, the second closing tool 28 is shown in its open position 40. The first closing tool 24 is reversibly movable along the closing axis AC and intersects the die axis AD in the closing region 4. Analogously, the second closing tool 28 is reversibly movable along a second closing axis AC2 that is parallel to the closing axis AC. The second closing axis AC2 intersects a second die axis (not shown in the figures) in the closing region 4. The second die axis is parallel to the die axis AD and extends through the second die provided on the die leg 58. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 6, the first closing tool 24 and the second closing tool 28 are formed as stamps.

[0056] As shown in Fig. 6 and in Fig. 7, a first leg width WL1 of the support leg 56 of the die holder 27 measured along the filling axis AF is smaller than a corresponding second leg width WL2 of the die leg 58 of the u-shaped die holder 27. This allows the first closing tool 24 and the second closing tool 28 to pass the support leg 56 when moving from their respective open position 40 to their respective closing position 42. The die holder 27 is supported between the two closing tools 24, 28 by the guide rails 60 received in the support grooves 62. The support of the die holder 27 between the two closing tools 24, 28 prevents tilting of the die holder 27 when a closure clip C is closed. The arrangement is particularly helpful when two closure clip C are closed simultaneously. Torques on the die resulting from closing forces transferred to the die by the closing tools can than substantially cancel each other out. Preferably, the die holder 27 is symmetrical in a plane perpendicular to the filling axis AF.

[0057] After the gathering step described above, the closing process employing the clipping tool assembly 1 commences as follows: At the end of the gathering step, the plait-like portion PP of the packaging P is located in the closing region 4 and extends therethrough along the filling axis AF. In a subsequent step, the die 26 is moved along the die axis AD from the neutral position 46 to the engagement position 48. In the present embodiment, movement of the die 26 is initiated by the die drive 52 which pulls the die holder 27 towards the engagement position 48 with its push-pull rod 64. When the die 26 is in its engagement position 48 in the closing region 4, the die holder 27 surrounds the plait-like portion PP on three sides. The die leg 58 prevents the plait-like portion from leaving the closing region 4 towards the gathering side 22.

[0058] As best shown in Figs. 4 and 5, the clipping tool assembly 1 comprises a support 66. The support 66 extends from the main body 20 towards the die 26. In the preferred embodiment shown in the figures, the support 66 is an adjustable pin 68. A length of the pin 68 extending from the main body 20 and towards the die 26 is adjustable. Here, the pin 68 comprises an outer thread corresponding to an inner thread of a threaded bore in the main body 20. The length of the pin 68 extending towards the die 26 is adjustable by rotating the pin 68. In other embodiments, an extension of the pin 68 towards the die 26 could be adjusted by an adjustment screw engaging the pin 26 on an opposite side. While the die 26 is in the neutral position 46, the support 66 does not engage the die holder 27 (Fig. 5). After the die 26 has moved from the neutral position 46 to the engagement position 48, the support 66 engages the die holder 27. Loads provided to the die 26 and the die holder 27 by the first and second closing tools 24, 28 when a closure clip C is closed are transferred to the support 66. This helps to prevent damages to the die 26 and / or the die holder 27.

[0059] In the illustrated embodiment, the pin 68 enters a corresponding receiving cavity in the die holder 27. To facilitate the positioning of the pin 68 in the receiving cavity of the die holder 27, the pin 68 has a frustoconical tip 70. Providing the support 66 can prevent deformation or flexing of the guide rails 62 during operation of the clipping tool assembly 1 and can help to increase the lifetime of the clipping tool assembly 1. Moreover, the die 26 can be positioned with higher accuracy such that the risk of the closure clip C being incorrectly closed can be reduced.

[0060] Once the die 26 is in the engagement positon 48, the closing process described above commences. In the shown embodiment and preferably, the tool drive 52 actuates both the first closing tool 24 and the second closing tool 28. In a preferred embodiment of the closing process, the die 26 and the closing tool 24 / closing tools 24, 28 are therefore moved sequentially. The tool drive 52 moves the first closing tool 24 and the second closing tool 28 from their respective open position 40 to respective feed positions 36 at which closure clip C are provided to the respective guide grooves 38 of each of the first closing tool 24 and the second closing tool 28. Preferably, the closure clip C are provided via magazine bars arranged on opposite sides of the clipping tool assembly 1. The magazine bars can be configured to store multiple closure clip C, in particular in the form of clip sticks.

[0061] The first closing tool 24 and the second closing tool 28 transport their respective closure clip C along their respective guide groove 38 towards the closing region 4. In the closing region 4, the closure clip C are positioned around the plait-like portion PP of the packaging P. The closure clip C on the side of the first closing tool 24 is then deformed around the plait-like portion PP by the first closing tool 24 and the first die 26. To this purpose, the first closing tool 24 presses the closure clip C against the die surface 30 of the die 26. Simultaneously, the closure clip C on the side of the second closing tool 28 is closed around the plait-like portion PP in an analogous manner by the interaction of the second closing tool 28 and a second die surface of the second die. After the closure clip C have been closed, the tool drive 54 retracts the first closing tool 24 and the second closing tool 28 back to their respective open positions 40.

[0062] As described above, the movement of the die 26 between the neutral position 46 and the engagement position 48 and the movement of the first closing tool 24 (and the second closing tool 28) from the open position 40 to the closing position 42 are preferably performed sequentially. That is the first closing tool or the toll drive 54 respectively is controlled to move only after the die 26 has reached the engagement position 48. This can ensure proper orientation of the plait-like portion PP in the closing region 4 and can prevent deformations of the die 26 and / or the die holder 27. However, it shall be understood that in other embodiments, the tool drive 54 and the die drive 52 can be controlled such that movement of the first closing tool 24 is initiated while the die 26 still moves or has not started to move.

[0063] For separating the closed packaging P from the supply of packaging material, the clipping tool assembly 1 further comprises cutting means 72. Cutting means 72 are configured to cut the packaging P at the plait-like portion PP, preferably while the plait-like portion PP is arranged in the closing region 4. The cutting means 72 comprises an angled blade 74 that is movable along a cutting axis AK. For moving the blade 74, a cutting means drive 76 is provided. Preferably, the cutting means drive 76 is a pneumatic drive. A drive rod 78 of the cutting means drive 76 is attached to the blade 74 and configured to reversibly move the blade 74 along the cutting axis AK. The cutting axis AK is parallel to the die axis AD. As best shown in Fig. 5, the blade 74 and the drive rod 78 are configured to move at least partially through the die holder 27. To allow movement of the cutting means 72 through the die holder 27, the die holder 27 comprises an aperture 80. Aperture 80 has a blade slot 82 for receiving the blade 74 and a circular portion 84 for receiving the drive rod 78. The blade slot 82 can help to keep the blade 74 aligned in the correct orientation.

[0064] Movement of the cutting means 72 through the aperture 80 of the die holder 27 allows the die 26 and the cutting means 72 to be actuated independently from each other. At the same time, die 26 and the blade 74 of the cutting means 72 can be advanced to the closing region 4 from the same direction. This allows for a very compact design. The travel of the die 26 along the die axis AD as well as a travel of the cutting means 72 along the cutting axis AK is relatively short such that high cycle rates are possibly with the clipping tool assembly 1.

[0065] Fig. 8 shows a cut view of the clipping tool assembly 1. The cut view illustrates the arrangement of the blade 74 of cutting means 72 in the die holder 27. The clipping tool assembly 1 further comprises a pusher means 86 for pushing a closure clip C just closed out of the die 26. For example, pusher means 86 can help to push a closure clip C out of die 26 that is stuck at the die surface 30. In the embodiment of the clipping tool assembly 1 shown in Fig. 8, the pusher means 86 is a pneumatic pusher comprising a pusher channel 88. The pusher channel 88 extends through the die 26 and opens to the die surface 30 of the die 26 (Fig. 9). Pressurized air provided to the pusher channel 88 is ejected through the opening in the die surface 30 such that a closure clip C stuck in the die 26 can be blown out of the die 26. The preferred embodiment of the clipping tool assembly 1 shown in the figures comprises the first die 26 and a second die. Preferably, a pusher channel 88 is provided in each of the dies. Pressurized air can be provided to the pusher channel 88 and / or the second pusher channel of the second die from in between the die legs of the die holder 27. Here, a manifold 89 is provided between the die legs 58 of the die holder 27. The manifold 89 receives pressurized air from a pressure line 94 and distributes the pressurized air to the pusher channel 88 in the first die 26 and the pusher channel in the second die. To allow for some relative movement of the die 26 relative to the die holder 27, the manifold 89 and / or the pressure line 94, the pusher channel 88 can have a collector section 90 that compensates the relative movement. Here the collector section 90 is larger than a conduit connecting the manifold 89 to the channel 88 such that pressurized air is reliably provided to the pusher channel 88.

[0066] The flexible pressure line 94 forms part of a fluid connection between the pusher channel 88 and a pressure source 92. Here, the flexible pressure line 94 connects the pressure source 92 to the manifold 89. Pressure source 92 can be controlled such that it provides pressurized air through pressure line 94 to pusher channel 88. The pressurized air is provided to the pusher channel 88 is then ejected through the opening of the pusher channel 88 to die surface 30 and pushes a closure clip C just closed out of die 26. Preferably, the pressure line 94 is a flexible pressure line 94, such as a flexible hose.

[0067] The flexible pressure line 94 is preferably configured to compensate the movement of the die 26 along the die axis AD. The flexible pressure line 94 thereby allows the pressure source 92 to be stationary while the die 26 is movable. In the present embodiment, the pressure line 94 comprises slack 96 when the die 26 is in the neutral position 46. During movement of the die 26 from its neutral position 46 to the engagement position 48 the slack 96 is reduced. The flexible pressure line 94 and its slack 96 can be configured such that the pressure line 94 is substantially taut when the die 26 is in the engagement position 48. In other embodiments, the flexible pressure line 94 can still have a certain amount of slack when the die 26 is in the engagement position 48. It is also possible that the flexible pressure line 94 is stretched when the die 26 is moved from the neutral position 46 to the engagement position 48. In such embodiments, the pressure line 94 can but must not have slack 96.

[0068] Preferably, pusher means 86 is configured to push closure clip C just closed out of both die portions of the die 26. A separate pusher nozzle 88 can be provided for each die portion. The pusher channel 88 can be connected to the pressure source 92 via a single pressure line 94.. In other embodiments, a separate pressure line 94 can be provided for each channel 88.

[0069] Fig. 10 shows a cut view of the die 26 and the die holder 27 in a plane that is spaced from the cut plane of Fig. 8 along the filling axis AF. In the preferred embodiment shown in Fig. 10, the die 26 and the die holder 27 are of a multipart design. Here the die holder 27 comprises a die cavity 100. The die 26 is received in the die cavity 100. The die surface is formed on the die 26. The die 26 is fully received in the die cavity 100 of the die holder 27. In other embodiments of the clipping tool assembly 1, the die 26 could also protrude from the die cavity 100, in particular in the direction of the closing axis AC. The height of the die 26 along the closing axis AC is adjustable. In the embodiment of Fig. 10 and preferably, the die 26 is adjustable via a wedge 104. Here, wedge 104 can be moved perpendicular to the closing axis AC by rotating an adjustment screw 106. When wedge 104 moves to the left with respect to Fig. 10, it pushes the die 26 having an angled surface 108 corresponding to wedge 104, upwards along the closing axis AC. By rotating adjustment screw 106 in the opposite direction, wedge 104 is moved to the right with respect to Fig. 10 such that the die 26 is moved into the die cavity 100 along the closing axis AC. The preferred die adjustment mechanism, which can be formed differently than described above, can be used to finely adjust a relative height of the die 26 or its die surface 30 respectively to the first closing tool 24. It shall be understood that a similar adjustment mechanism can be provided for the second die. The die cavity 100 of the die holder 27 is open on a lateral side or comprises a lateral opening respectively. The die 26 can be inserted into the die cavity 100 through this lateral opening. The die cavity 100 can then be closed on the lateral side by a cover plate which has been omitted in Fig. 10 to show the interior of the die holder 27.List of reference signs

[0070] 1clipping tool assembly 2gathering means 4closing region 6first gathering tool 8second gathering tool 10first gathering plate 12second gathering plate 14gathering contour 16tapered section 18holding section 20main body 22gathering side 24first closing tool 26first die 27die holder 28second closing tool 30die surface 34second gathering means 36feed position 38guide groove 40open position 42closing position 44tool side 46neutral position 48engagement position 52die drive 54tool drive 56support leg 58die leg 60guide rails 62support grove 64push-pull rod 66support 68pin 70tip 72cutting means 74angled blade 76cutting means drive 78drive rod 80aperture 82blade slot 84circular portion 86pusher means 88pusher channel 89manifold 90collector section 92pressure source 94pressure line 96slack 100die cavity 104wedge 106adjustment screw 108angled surface ACclosing axis ADdie axis AFfilling axis AGgathering axis AKcutting axis Cclosure clip Ppackaging PPplait-like portion Wfree width WL1first leg width WL2second leg width βaxis angle

Claims

1. A clipping tool assembly (1) for closing at least one closure means, like a closure clip (C), in a packaging machine for closing tubular or bag-shaped packagings (P) containing filling, in particular an incoherent filling like fruit or vegetables, the clipping tool assembly (1) comprising: a first closing tool (24) and a die (26) for applying the at least one closure means at a plait-like portion (PP) of a packaging (P), the plait-like portion (PP) extending through a closing region (4) of the clipping tool assembly (1) along a filling axis (AF); a die drive (52) for reversibly moving the die (26) linearly along a die axis (AD) between a neutral position (46) and an engagement position (48) in the closing region (4); a tool drive (54) for reversibly moving the first closing tool (24) linearly along a closing axis (AC) from an open position (40) to a closing position (42) in the closing region (4); wherein when the die (26) is in the engagement position (48), the clipping tool assembly (1) is configured to close the at least one closure means (c) at the plait-like portion (PP) of the packaging (P) when the first closing tool (24) is moved towards the die (26); and wherein the die axis (AD) and the closing axis (AC) intersect each other in the closing region (4).

2. The clipping tool assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein the die axis (AD) intersects the closing axis (AC) at an axis angle (β) in a range of 70° to 90°, wherein preferably the die axis (AD) is perpendicular to the closing axis (AC).

3. The clipping tool assembly (1) according to claim 1 or2, further comprising a controller for controlling at least the die drive (52) and the tool drive (54), wherein the controller is configured to control the die drive (52) and the tool drive (54) such that a movement of the die (26) between the neutral position (46) and the engagement position (48) and of the first closing tool (24) between the open position (40) and the closing position (42) is at least partially sequential, wherein the controller is preferably configured to control the die drive (52) and the tool drive (54) such that the movement of the first closing tool (24) towards the die (26) is started after the die (26) has reached the engagement position (48).

4. The clipping tool assembly (1) according to any of the previous claims, further comprising gathering means (2) for forming the plait-like portion (PP) of the packaging (P), the gathering means (2) comprising a first gathering tool (6) and a second gathering tool (8), wherein the first gathering tool (6) is movable towards the second gathering tool (8) along a gathering axis (AG) for gathering packaging material and forming the plait-like portion (PP) of the packaging (P), and wherein the first gathering tool (6) and the second gathering tool (8) preferably each comprise a sloped inner gathering contour (14), wherein the sloped inner gathering contour (14) of the first gathering tool (6) and the second gathering tool (8) slope in opposite directions, wherein preferably the gathering axis (AG) is parallel to the closing axis (AC).

5. The clipping tool assembly (1) according to any of the previous claims, wherein the filling axis (AF) is perpendicular to the closing axis (AC) and / or the die axis (AD).

6. The clipping tool assembly (1) according to any of the previous claims, further comprising a die holder (27) for holding the die (26), wherein the die holder (27) and the die (26) are jointly movable along the die axis (AD), and wherein preferably the die (26) is at least partially received in the die holder (27).

7. The clipping tool assembly (1) according to claim 6, further comprising a support (66) for supporting the die holder (27) when the die (26) is in the engagement position (48), wherein the support (66) preferably comprises a support pin (68) and the die holder (27) preferably comprises a receiving cavity, wherein the support pin (68) engages the receiving cavity when the die (26) is in the engagement position (48).

8. The clipping tool assembly (1) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein viewed along the filling axis (AF) the die holder (27) is substantially u-shaped, wherein the u-shaped die holder (27) is preferably configured to surround the plait-like portion (PP) extending through the closing region (4) when the die (26) is in the engagement position (48).

9. The clipping tool assembly (1) according to claim 8, wherein a support leg (56) of the u-shaped die holder (27) is supported by at least one guide rail (60) on a tool side (44) of the closing region (4) opposite the gathering side (22), wherein a thickness of the support leg (56) of the die holder (27) along the filling axis (AF) is smaller than a thickness of a die leg (58) of the u-shaped die holder (27), such that the first closing tool (24) can pass the support leg (56) when being moved towards the closing position (42) and engage the die (26) at least partially received in the die leg (58) for closing the closure means.

10. The clipping tool assembly (1) according to any of the previous claims, further comprising a second closing tool (28) for closing a second closure means, the second closing tool (28) being movable from the open position (40) to the closing position (42), and a second die, wherein the first closing tool (24) engages the first die (26) for closing the first closure means and wherein the second closing tool (28) engages the second die for closing the second closure means, wherein preferably the first die (26) is provided on a first die leg of a die holder (27) and the second die is provided on a second die leg of the die holder (27) spaced from the first die leg along the filling axis (AF).

11. The clipping tool assembly (1) according to any of the previous claims, further comprising a cutting means (72) for cutting the packaging (P) at the plait-like portion (PP), wherein the cutting means (72) is movable along a cutting axis (AK) that is parallel to the die axis (AD).

12. The clipping tool assembly (1) of any of the previous claims, further comprising a pusher means (86) for pushing the closure means just closed out of the die (26), wherein the pusher means (86) preferably is a pneumatic pusher means, wherein the pneumatic pusher means preferably comprises a pusher channel (88) at least partially extending through the die (26) and opening to a die surface (30) of the die (26), wherein the pusher channel (88) is coupled to a pressure source (92), and wherein the pneumatic pusher means is configured to discharge pressurized air out of the pusher channel (88) for urging the closure means just closed out of the die (26), wherein the pusher means preferably comprises at least one flexible pressure line (90) forming at least part of a fluid connection between the pusher channel (88) and the pressure source (92), wherein the flexible pressure line (94) is configured to compensate the movement of the die (26) from the neutral position (46) to the engagement position (48), wherein the pressure line (94) preferably has slack (96) when the die (26) is in the neutral position (46) and is preferably substantially taut when the die (26) is in the engagement position (48).

13. A packaging machine for producing filled tubular or bag-shaped packagings (P), by inserting a filling, in particular an incoherent filling like fruit or vegetables, into a tubular or bag-shaped packaging (P) and closing said packaging (P) by a closure means, like a closure clip (C), the clipping machine comprising a clipping tool assembly (1) according to any of claims 1 to 12.

14. A clipping tool assembly (1) according to any of claims 1 to 12 for use in a packaging machine for closing tubular or bag-shaped packagings (P) by at least one closure means, like a closure clip (C).

15. Method for at least partially closing at least one packaging (P) with a closure means using a clipping tool assembly (1), preferably a clipping tool assembly (1) according to any of claims 1 to 12, the method comprising the steps: - gathering a portion of a packaging material to form a plait-like portion (PP) of the packaging (P) in a closing region (4) of the clipping tool assembly (1); - linearly moving a die (26) of the clipping tool assembly (1) along a die axis (AD) from a neutral position (46), in which the position of the die (26) allows the plait-like portion (PP) to be positioned in the closing region (4), to an engagement position (48) of the die (26) in the closing region (4); - providing at least one closure means, preferably a closure clip (C), to the clipping tool assembly (1); - linearly moving a first clipping tool (24) of the clipping tool assembly (1) towards the die (26) along a closing axis (AC) from an open position (40) to a closing position (42) in the closing region (4) for applying the at least one closure means to the plait-like portion (PP); wherein the die axis (AD) and the closure axis (AC) intersect each other in the closing region (4), and wherein the die (26) and the first closing tool (24) are preferably moved at least partially sequential, wherein particularly preferred the movement of the first closing tool (24) along the closing axis (AC) is started after the die (26) has reached the engagement position (48).

Images