Packaging apparatus and method for combining at least two articles by means of a packaging blank

Abstract

The invention relates to a packaging apparatus (1) and a method for combining at least two articles (31) by means of a packaging blank (20). The packaging apparatus (1) comprises a magazine (2) for packaging blanks (20), in which magazine (2) at least two stacks (21) of packaging blanks (20) are arranged. The packaging apparatus (1) further comprises a removal device (3), which is designed to pick up at least two packaging blanks (20) from at least two different stacks (21) from the magazine (2) and to deposit these inside an intermediate station (4). The removal device (3) can optionally be designed to pick up at least two packaging blanks (20) from a nested arrangement from the magazine (2) and to deposit these inside the intermediate station (4). The intermediate station (4) comprises at least one handling device (5) for at least one packaging blank (20). In addition, the packaging apparatus (1) comprises an application device (6), which is designed to pick up the at least two packaging blanks (20) from the intermediate station (4) and to apply each to an assembly (30) of articles (31). In this way, the removal device (3) and / or the intermediate station (4) and / or the application device (6) is / are designed to alter a distance (A) between the at least two packaging blanks (20).

Description

[0001] Packaging device and method for combining at least two articles via a packaging blank

[0002] The present invention relates to a packaging device and a method for combining at least two articles via a packaging blank.

[0003] There are different types of packaging for the processing, compilation, grouping, and packaging of items such as beverage containers. One frequently used variant involves combining several similar items or containers into portable, relatively handy bundles or packaging units. Various options are also available for combining individual items or containers into larger packages. For example, beverage containers are usually combined and packaged using shrink film to form bundles of four, six, or more containers. The production of bundles is usually unavoidable, as they are the most common type of packaging unit for beverage containers or bottles made of PET plastic. The bundles are sometimes combined again for transport and / or arranged in layers and palletized.

[0004] Furthermore, the use of so-called upper grip carton packaging is known, for example, to group together several bottles via their neck areas or several cans. A packaging machine for applying such upper grip carton packaging is described in patent specification EP 1 075419 B1. Here, the articles or containers are arranged in a box, and the grip carton packaging is placed from above onto the at least one article arranged in the box. In particular, a plurality of articles are arranged in the box, and by placing a smaller number of upper grip carton packaging, subgroups are formed, each of which groups together a portion of the articles arranged in the box.

[0005] A grip carton packaging has an arrangement and number of openings that correspond to the arrangement and number of articles or containers to be grouped. The diameter of the openings is usually slightly smaller than a maximum diameter of the articles in an upper area. The grip carton packaging is placed on the articles and pressed down so that a defined upper area of ​​the articles is pushed through the openings. In particular, an upper area with a maximum diameter is pushed through the openings, and the edge areas of the openings engage with the articles below this maximum diameter, so that the grip carton packaging is securely and firmly attached to the articles.To adhere the gripper carton packaging to the articles in this way, especially to push the articles through the openings, relatively high application forces are required. Accordingly, the articles must offer sufficient resistance to this application force to prevent damage when the gripper carton packaging is applied.

[0006] Publication WO 2020233943 A1 describes a packaging device and a method for producing packaging units. A magazine stores a large number of flat packaging blanks stacked together. This describes an industrial robot with a work tool that can simultaneously receive several flat packaging blanks and attach them to several article groups.

[0007] An object of the present invention is to make the application of packaging blanks technically simple and inexpensive and, in particular, to reduce the effort for maintenance and repair of packaging devices used for this purpose.

[0008] The above object is achieved by a packaging device and a method for combining at least two articles via a packaging blank, which comprise the features in the independent claims. Further advantageous embodiments are described in the subclaims.

[0009] The packaging device according to the present invention comprises a magazine for packaging blanks, a removal device, an intermediate station and an application device.

[0010] Here, it is provided that the removal device and / or the intermediate station and / or the application device is / are designed to change and / or adjust the distance between the at least two packaging blanks removed from the magazine at the same time or essentially at the same time. For this purpose, the removal device and / or the intermediate station and / or the application device are equipped with appropriate adjustment devices.

[0011] The articles or containers handled in the packaging device are preferably beverage containers, in particular bottles made of PET or another suitable plastic, but the use of glass bottles is also conceivable. Preferably, the articles or containers can also be formed by cans made of plastic and / or aluminum or another metal, or similar. However, the packaging device and the method also described here are also suitable for arranging and securing a corresponding packaging blank to other suitable articles or containers.

[0012] Sets of articles are prepared for handling within the packaging device. These sets are typically created in a so-called grouping module or dividing module. For example, dividers can be provided, which can comprise two horizontal conveyors connected to one another in the conveying direction and, if necessary, produce sets of several articles each through intermittent operation.

[0013] Dividing elements are also known that can engage with the articles via multiple push bars, then accelerate the respective articles relative to trailing articles in the conveying direction, thereby forming a respective assembly of several articles. Further possibilities for assembling article groups are known to the person skilled in the art and are hereby covered by the application.

[0014] At least two stacks of packaging blanks can be arranged in the magazine. In particular, the packaging blanks are provided in the magazine in at least two stacks. To save space, there is usually no or only a small initial gap between the stacks. For space-saving reasons, the packaging blanks can also be arranged nested within the magazine.

[0015] The packaging blanks can, for example, be formed by flat packaging blanks in the form of so-called upper grip carton packaging or similar. The packaging blanks used have an arrangement and number of openings that correspond to the arrangement and number of articles or containers to be combined. The diameter of the openings is generally slightly smaller than the maximum diameter of the articles in an upper area, so that a locking connection is possible by overcoming a certain resistance when applying the packaging blanks.

[0016] The flat packaging blank, in particular, can be made from recyclable cellulose-containing materials, for example. For example, the flat packaging blank can be made from cardboard and / or paperboard, which can be easily recycled after use. Furthermore, it is conceivable for the flat packaging blank to be made from plastic, with the use of single-variety thermoplastics, which are also easily recyclable, being particularly likely. According to a further embodiment, the flat packaging blank can be composed of several cellulose-containing layers or of a combination of different materials, including various recycled materials.

[0017] According to one embodiment, it can be provided that the packaging blank further has a plurality of recesses, which together may form a carrying handle.

[0018] The removal device is designed to pick up at least two packaging blanks from the magazine and to deposit the at least two packaging blanks within an intermediate station. In particular, the removal device is designed to pick up at least two packaging blanks from at least two different packaging blank stacks. Alternatively, the removal device is designed to pick up at least two packaging blanks from a nested arrangement.

[0019] For this purpose, the removal device can comprise appropriately equipped gripping elements for grasping the packaging blanks, for example suction grippers or similar.

[0020] The intermediate station of the packaging device comprises at least one handling device for at least one of the packaging blanks.

[0021] The handling of at least one of the at least two packaging blanks deposited in the intermediate station can, for example, provide for the alignment and / or centering of the packaging blanks for subsequent application to the article assemblies. For example, the at least one handling device of the intermediate station can be designed as an alignment and / or centering device or can comprise an alignment and / or centering device. The alignment and / or centering device is designed, in particular, to align and / or center the packaging blanks for subsequent reception by the application device.

[0022] Alternatively or additionally, the packaging blanks can be suitably prepared within the intermediate station for subsequent application to the assemblies of articles. For example, the packaging blanks are unfolded and / or folded over and / or glued and / or pre-broken at least in some areas within the intermediate station. For this purpose, the at least one handling device can be designed as a folding device and / or a gluing device and / or a pre-breaking device.

[0023] A corresponding folding device can, for example, be designed to unfold a portion of the respective packaging blank to form a carrying handle area. For example, a central area between two rows of through-openings is folded upwards out of a horizontal plane encompassing the through-openings. This upwardly folded area projects above the articles in the finished packaging unit and can thus be easily grasped by the customer for carrying the packaging unit.

[0024] An alternative folding device can provide for the edge regions of the packaging blanks to be folded downwards to form an apron that subsequently partially encompasses the outer surface of the article. In this case, it can additionally be provided that the folding device is associated with an adhesive device that glues together parts of the downwardly folded edge regions to form and / or stabilize the apron.

[0025] It is preferably provided that the intermediate station comprises an alignment and / or centering device and / or a folding device and / or a gluing device and / or a pre-breaking device for each of the at least two packaging blanks.

[0026] A pre-breaking device can be used in particular to reduce a resistance force in an edge region of the through-openings of the packaging blank during the subsequent application of the packaging blank to the at least two articles of the assembly.

[0027] For example, the pre-breaking device comprises at least one expansion die, but preferably a plurality of expansion dies, which are suitable for expanding and / or widening the edge regions of the at least one through-opening of the packaging blank. In this case, the pre-treatment at least slightly increases the average diameter of the at least one through-opening. As a result, an upper region of the articles with a maximum diameter, which maximum diameter is preferably at least slightly larger than an average diameter of the through-openings, can be more easily guided through the respective through-opening.

[0028] Optionally, radially extending incisions can be provided in the edge area of ​​the through-openings. When the packaging blanks are placed on the respective pre-breaking device, with the expansion dies being guided through the correspondingly designed through-openings, the sections of the packaging blanks between the incisions are folded upward, thereby increasing the average diameter of the through-openings.

[0029] The upwardly folded sections are also called securing tabs. During the subsequent application of the packaging blanks to the article assemblies, the packaging blanks are engaged with the articles in such a way that the securing tabs engage in an upper area of ​​the articles below a maximum diameter of the articles, thereby essentially securing the packaging blank to the articles. This prevents the articles from experiencing any significant relative movement or positional changes relative to each other or to the packaging blank.

[0030] The packaging blank can only be removed from the articles of the packaging unit formed in this way with increased force with an upward force component, whereby the packaging blank is usually at least partially destroyed.

[0031] This pretreatment of the packaging blank significantly reduces the application force required to press the packaging blank onto the items in the assembly, compared to the application force required to attach the packaging blank to the items without pretreatment. This pretreatment can therefore reduce the risk of damaging the items when applying the packaging blank. In this case, even items with a thinner wall thickness can be used without being damaged during the application of the packaging blank.

[0032] The application device is designed to pick up the at least two packaging blanks from the intermediate station and to apply each of the at least two packaging blanks to a collection of articles to form a packaging unit. In particular, the application device comprises appropriately equipped gripping elements for grasping the packaging blanks, for example, suction grippers or similar.

[0033] For this purpose, the provided article assemblies are fed to the application device via a transport device. In particular, the article assemblies are fed to the application device at a second distance from each other. This second distance is generally greater than the first distance at which the packaging blanks are arranged within the magazine.

[0034] The packaging blanks are removed from the intermediate station by the application device and placed onto the article assemblies to form the packaging units, where they are pressed onto the articles. A defined upper section of the articles is pressed through the openings. Specifically, an upper section of the articles with a maximum diameter is pressed through the openings, and the edge areas of the openings are brought into engagement with the articles below this maximum diameter, so that the packaging blanks are securely and firmly attached to the articles in the article assemblies.

[0035] After the packaging blank has been pressed onto the articles, it can also be provided that, for example, edge areas of the packaging blank are folded downwards and fixed to one another and / or to the articles, for example by means of adhesive bonds or similar.

[0036] In all embodiments and examples described above and below, it is provided in particular that the application device is designed to receive the at least two packaging blanks simultaneously or substantially simultaneously and to apply them simultaneously or substantially simultaneously to a corresponding number of at least two combinations of articles.

[0037] In order to apply at least two packaging blanks removed from the magazine simultaneously or essentially simultaneously to an equal number of assemblies, it is necessary to pre-space the packaging blanks to a suitable pitch. This means that a third gap must be created between the packaging blanks, which essentially corresponds to the second gap. As a rule, the third gap is twice the overhang width less than the second gap between the article assemblies. The overhang width defines an area of ​​the packaging blank that extends laterally beyond the article assemblies.

[0038] In the following, some design and application examples, which can also be combined with each other, will be used to show how the packaging blanks can be brought within the packaging device from a first division in the magazine to a second division for application to the article compilations.

[0039] In a first embodiment, the removal device is used to change the spacing of the packaging blanks removed together from the magazine from the first spacing to the third spacing. In particular, the removal device removes two or more packaging blanks from the magazine, which packaging blanks are arranged at a first spacing from one another within the magazine, or which packaging blanks are arranged nested within the magazine.

[0040] While the removal device transfers the at least two packaging blanks to the intermediate station, the packaging blanks are brought to the desired second pitch by corresponding adjustment devices of the removal device, i.e., to the desired spacing with a third spacing between the packaging blanks. The packaging blanks spaced in this way are deposited within the intermediate station with the third spacing between the two packaging blanks. For example, the gripping elements of the removal device are designed with variable spacing, for example, by arranging the gripping elements on an adjustment device designed as a guide rail.By moving at least one of the gripping elements along this guide rail, the distance between the gripping elements and thus the distance between the packaging blanks gripped by the gripping elements is changed accordingly and adapted to the desired second division.

[0041] In a second embodiment, the spacing of the packaging blanks is changed from the first spacing to the third spacing by means of the application device. In particular, the removal device receives two packaging blanks arranged in a first position or nested within the magazine and arranges them at a first spacing within the intermediate station. Following appropriate handling within the intermediate station, the two packaging blanks are then grasped by the application device and, prior to application to the two assemblies, adjusted to the corresponding second spacing, i.e., the third spacing, by a suitable adjustment device.

[0042] For example, the gripping elements of the application device are designed with variable spacing, for example, by arranging the gripping elements on an adjustment device designed as a guide rail. By moving at least one of the gripping elements along this guide rail, the spacing between the gripping elements and thus the spacing between the packaging blanks gripped by the gripping elements is changed accordingly and adjusted to the desired second pitch.

[0043] In a third exemplary embodiment, the change in the spacing of the packaging blanks from the first spacing to the third spacing is carried out within the intermediate station. In particular, the removal device picks up two packaging blanks arranged at a first spacing or nested within one another in the magazine and arranges them at a first spacing within the intermediate station. Within the intermediate station, the two packaging blanks are brought to the desired pitch with the third spacing and are then grasped by the application device while maintaining the third spacing and applied to two provided assemblies. The intermediate station can be designed to carry out a pulling movement in order to set the third spacing between the two packaging blanks.In particular, a pneumatically or hydraulically induced warping movement can take place within the intermediate station.

[0044] A preferred embodiment can provide that the at least one handling device of the intermediate station is designed to adjust the third distance between the two packaging blanks.

[0045] According to one embodiment, it can be provided that the intermediate station comprises at least two storage locations for at least two packaging blanks.

[0046] One embodiment may provide that the at least one handling device of an intermediate station for handling two packaging blanks is formed by at least one movable storage location, which at least one movable storage location is movable relative to the other storage location, so that the relative distance between the two storage locations is variable.

[0047] A further embodiment can provide that each of the at least two storage locations is designed to be movable relative to one another in order to adjust the distance between two adjacent storage locations.

[0048] For example, the at least one movable storage location or the plurality of movable storage locations can form the at least one handling device of the intermediate station.

[0049] For example, at least one of the storage locations or the majority of the storage locations, or for example, all of the storage locations, are each designed to be movable via an adjustment device, which is formed by a slide guide on a guide rail. By moving at least one storage location along the guide rail, the distance to an adjacent storage location can be changed, in particular, reduced or increased.

[0050] The movement is controlled in particular by an actuator, which actuator can be formed by a drive in the form of a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, a motor drive in the form of an electric motor or similar, a linear drive, etc. In a fourth exemplary embodiment, it is provided that the change in the distance between the packaging blanks from the first distance to the third distance takes place in two stages. In particular, a first intermediate distance between the packaging blanks is set by the removal device or by the intermediate station. Subsequently, the desired third distance is set by the intermediate station or by the application device; in particular, the desired third distance is set following a handling step carried out within the intermediate station.

[0051] The spacing can be larger than the first spacing between the packaging blanks in the magazine and smaller than the third spacing between the packaging blanks when applied to the article assemblies. According to an alternative embodiment, it may also be expedient to make the spacing larger than the third spacing. The size of the spacing depends in particular on the type of handling of the packaging blanks and / or on the size or space requirements of a corresponding handling device within the intermediate station.

[0052] The following describes, by way of example, a handling device of the intermediate station, referred to as a warping unit, which comprises two storage locations for two packaging blanks. Those skilled in the art can easily transfer the features described here to an arrangement of three or more storage locations, regardless of whether the three or more storage locations are arranged in an aligned row or in two or more parallel rows.

[0053] The storage locations can be designed as an interchangeable format part or format table. This means that the storage locations can be exchanged depending on the size of the packaging blanks to be handled and thus individually adapted to the respective product.

[0054] The storage locations designed as format parts can also be equipped with at least one additional handling device, as described above.

[0055] For example, the storage locations can each be equipped with a folding device. For example, the folding device can be designed as a kind of folding wedge in the middle of the top of the storage location, whereby when a packaging blank is placed on a storage location, a central area of ​​the

[0056] Packaging blank is unfolded to form a carrying handle.

[0057] Alternatively or additionally, further handling devices such as gluing devices, pre-breaking devices, alignment and / or centering devices, etc. can be assigned to the storage locations.

[0058] In particular, it can be provided that the additional handling devices are arranged interchangeably at the storage location. Alternatively, it can be provided that the additional handling devices together with the storage location form an interchangeable format part.

[0059] The packaging device with intermediate station described here increases the flexibility in the production of packaging units.

[0060] As a rule, the packaging blanks are arranged in a space-saving manner within the magazine. This means that the at least two stacks of packaging blanks are often arranged only slightly apart from each other or even adjacent to each other, or the packaging blanks are even nested within the magazine.

[0061] By spacing the packaging blanks within the packaging device to move them from the first division within the magazine to a second division for application to the article assemblies, it is therefore not necessary to already provide the packaging blanks in the magazine in a suitable arrangement. Furthermore, by individually adjusting the spacing, it is possible to use the same packaging blanks in different production modes, in which different production modes the article assemblies are fed to the application device at different spacings.

[0062] By handling the packaging blanks within an intermediate station, the corresponding tools do not need to be contained in an application head of the application device that includes the gripping elements, making it significantly lighter and technically simpler. This reduces the complexity of the application device, making it less susceptible to errors and thus production downtimes due to maintenance or repair work. Furthermore, the handling steps are not performed while other forces, such as acceleration forces or similar, are acting on the packaging blanks. This is particularly advantageous when handling includes the application of adhesive for bonding processes.

[0063] The change in the pitch between the packaging blanks is controlled, in particular, by a control device. Depending on the embodiment, this can be a control device of the removal device and / or a control device of the intermediate station and / or a control device of the application device, or a general machine control of the packaging device, which controls corresponding adjustment devices of the removal device and / or the intermediate station and / or the application device.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the change in the distance is carried out on the basis of information stored within the control device or machine control system regarding the first distance between the packaging blanks in the magazine or regarding the nested arrangement of the packaging blanks in the magazine and the third distance between the packaging blanks when applied to the article assemblies.

[0065] According to an alternative embodiment, the distance is adjusted based on information stored within the control device or machine control system regarding the first distance between the packaging blanks in the magazine or the nested arrangement of the packaging blanks in the magazine, and based on sensor detection of the second distance between the article assemblies. The control device or machine control system calculates the required third distance based on the known information and the sensor-determined data, as well as on known or sensor-determined values ​​regarding the overhang area, and activates the adjustment devices.

[0066] According to a further embodiment, the distance is adjusted based on sensory detection of the packaging blanks and / or the first distance between the packaging blanks within the magazine, or for the nested arrangement of the packaging blanks in the magazine and sensory detection of the second distance between the provided article assemblies. The control device or machine control calculates the required third distance based on the sensory data and known or sensory-determined values ​​for the overhang area and controls the adjustment devices.

[0067] A particularly preferred embodiment of the invention can provide that only the intermediate station of the packaging device is designed to change a distance between the at least two packaging blanks and in particular to adapt them to a division for the application to article combinations.

[0068] Furthermore, a method according to the invention for combining at least two articles via a packaging blank is described. In the method, at least two packaging blanks are removed from a magazine and placed at an intermediate station. In particular, the two packaging blanks are picked up from at least two different stacks in the magazine. Alternatively, the two packaging blanks are picked up from a nested arrangement within the magazine.

[0069] At least one packaging blank is handled within the intermediate station. The packaging blanks are then picked up again and applied to a set of articles.

[0070] It is provided that in connection with the removal of the packaging blanks from the magazine and the depositing on the intermediate station and / or within the intermediate station and / or in connection with the picking up of the packaging blanks from the intermediate station and the application to the sets of articles, at least one distance between the at least two packaging blanks is changed or adjusted.

[0071] It should be expressly stated at this point that all aspects and embodiments explained in connection with the device according to the invention equally relate to, or can be, partial aspects of the method according to the invention. Therefore, if certain aspects and / or relationships and / or effects are mentioned at any point in the description or in the claim definitions for the device according to the invention, this equally applies to the method according to the invention. The same applies in reverse, so that all aspects and embodiments explained in connection with the method according to the invention equally relate to, or can be partial aspects of the device according to the invention.Therefore, if at one point in the description or in the claim definitions for the method according to the invention certain aspects and / or relationships and / or effects are mentioned, this applies equally to the device according to the invention.

[0072] In the following, exemplary embodiments will explain the invention and its advantages in more detail with reference to the accompanying figures. The relative sizes of the individual elements in the figures do not always correspond to the actual sizes, as some shapes are simplified and others are enlarged relative to other elements for better illustration.

[0073] Fig. 1 shows schematically some interacting components or modules of an embodiment of a packaging device according to the invention.

[0074] Fig. 2 shows a first embodiment of the packaging device according to Fig. 1.

[0075] Fig. 3 shows a second embodiment of the packaging device according to Fig. 1.

[0076] Fig. 4 shows a third embodiment of the packaging device according to Fig. 1.

[0077] Figures 5 to 7 show different views of an intermediate station designed as a drawing unit, which can be part of the packaging device according to at least one of Figures 1 to 4.

[0078] Identical reference numerals are used for identical or equivalently functioning elements of the invention. Furthermore, for the sake of clarity, only those reference numerals are shown in the individual figures that are necessary for the description of the respective figure. The illustrated embodiments merely represent examples of how the invention can be configured and do not constitute an exhaustive limitation.

[0079] Fig. 1 schematically shows the components of a packaging device 1. The packaging device 1 comprises a magazine 2 for packaging blanks 20, in which magazine 2 at least two stacks 21 of packaging blanks 20 are arranged. According to an alternative embodiment, not shown here, it can be provided that the packaging blanks 20 are arranged nested within the magazine 2. Furthermore, the packaging device 1 comprises a removal device 3, which removal device 3 is designed to receive at least two packaging blanks 20 from at least two different stacks 21 from the magazine 2 or from the nested arrangement and to deposit the at least two packaging blanks 20 within an intermediate station 4.

[0080] In particular, the removal device 3 comprises appropriately equipped gripping elements 43 for gripping the packaging blanks 20, for example suction grippers 44 or similar.

[0081] The intermediate station 4 comprises at least one handling device 5 for at least one of the packaging blanks 20.

[0082] Furthermore, the packaging device 1 comprises an application device 6, which application device 6 is designed to receive the at least two packaging blanks 20 from the intermediate station 4 and to apply the packaging blanks 20 to an assembly 30 of articles 31 to form packaging units 32. In particular, the application device 6 comprises appropriately equipped gripping elements 45 for grasping the packaging blanks 20, for example suction grippers 46 or the like.

[0083] Here, it is provided that the removal device 3 and / or the intermediate station 4 and / or the application device 6 is / are designed to change or adjust a distance between the at least two packaging blanks 20. For this purpose, the removal device 3 and / or the intermediate station 4 and / or the application device 6 are equipped with corresponding adjustment devices 50 (see in particular Figures 2 to 4).

[0084] This change in distance is necessary because the packaging blanks 20 are provided in the magazine 2 in stacks 21 or nested one inside the other, with a first distance A1 being formed between the stacks 21.

[0085] The provided assemblies 30, however, are fed to the application device 6 in a transport device TR at a second distance A2 from one another. The second distance A2 is generally greater than the first distance A1. In order to apply the at least two packaging blanks 20 removed from the magazine 2 simultaneously or essentially simultaneously to an equal number of assemblies 30 simultaneously or essentially simultaneously, it is necessary to bring the packaging blanks 20 to a suitable pitch. This means that a third distance A3 must be formed between the packaging blanks 20, which third distance A3 essentially corresponds to the second distance A2. As a rule, the third distance A3 is less than the second distance by twice the overhang width ÜB.In this context, the overhang width ÜB is defined as an area of ​​the packaging blank 20 that projects laterally beyond the assembly 30.

[0086] The at least one article 31 or container handled in the packaging device 1 is preferably a beverage container, in particular a bottle made of PET, another suitable plastic, or glass. Preferably, the articles 31 or containers can also be formed by cans 33 made of plastic and / or aluminum or another metal, or the like. However, the packaging device and the method are also suitable for arranging and securing a corresponding packaging blank 20 to other suitable articles 31 or containers.

[0087] The assemblies 30 of the articles 31 are produced in particular in a grouping module or dividing module (not shown). For example, suitable dividers can be provided in the grouping module or dividing module, which can comprise two horizontal conveyors adjoining one another in the conveying direction and, if necessary, produce assemblies 30 each comprising a plurality of articles 31, in particular bottles or cans 33, through intermittent operation. Dividers are also known which can engage the articles 31 via a plurality of push bars, then accelerate the respective articles 31 relative to trailing articles 31 in the conveying direction or transport direction TR, and thereby form a respective assemblage 30 comprising a plurality of articles 31. Further possibilities for assembling article groups are known to the person skilled in the art and are hereby covered by the application.

[0088] The packaging blank 20 is formed, in particular, by a flat packaging blank in the form of a so-called upper grip carton packaging or similar. The packaging blank 20 has an arrangement and number of through-openings 22 that correspond to the arrangement and number of articles 31 or containers to be combined. The diameter of the through-openings 22 is generally slightly smaller than a maximum diameter of the articles 31 in an upper region. The particularly flat packaging blank 20 can, for example, be formed from recyclable cellulose-containing materials. For example, the flat packaging blank 20 can be formed from cardboard and / or carton, which can be easily recycled after use.Furthermore, it is conceivable that the flat packaging blank 20 is made of plastic, with particular emphasis on single-variety thermoplastics, which are also easily recyclable. For example, the flat packaging blank 20 can be composed of several cellulose-containing layers or a combination of different materials, including various recycled materials.

[0089] To form the packaging units 32, the packaging blank 20 is placed onto the assembly 30 of articles 31 and pressed on so that a defined upper region of the articles 31 is pushed through the through-openings 22. In particular, an upper region with a maximum diameter is pushed through the through-openings 22, and the edge regions of the through-openings 22 are brought into engagement with the articles 31 below this maximum diameter, so that the packaging blank 22 is securely and firmly attached to the articles 31. In order to attach the packaging blank 22 to the articles 31 in this way, in particular to push the articles 31 through the through-openings 22, relatively high application forces are necessary. Accordingly, the articles 31 must offer suitable resistance to this application force so that the articles 31 are not damaged when the packaging blank 31 is applied.

[0090] After pressing the packaging blank 20 onto the articles 31, it can further be provided that, for example, edge regions of the packaging blank 20 are folded downwards and fixed to one another and / or to the articles 31, for example by means of adhesive bonds or the like.

[0091] It is possible that the packaging blank also has several cutouts, which together may form a carrying handle.

[0092] The change in the pitch between the packaging blanks 20 is controlled in particular by a control device 55. Depending on the embodiment, this can be a control device of the removal device 3 and / or a control device of the intermediate station 4 and / or a control device of the application device 6 or a general machine control 56 of the packaging device 1, which

[0093] Controls adjustment devices 50 of the removal device and / or the intermediate station and / or the application device (see Figures 2 to 4).

[0094] According to one embodiment, the change in the distance A occurs based on information stored within the control device 55 or machine control 56 regarding the first distance A1 between the packaging blanks 20 in the magazine 2 or regarding the nested arrangement of the packaging blanks 20 in the magazine 2 and the third distance A3 between the packaging blanks 20 during application to the article assemblies 30.

[0095] According to an alternative embodiment, the distance A is set based on information stored within the control device 55 or machine control 56 regarding the first distance A1 between the packaging blanks 20 in the magazine 2 or regarding the nested arrangement of the packaging blanks 20 in the magazine 2 and based on sensory detection of the second distance A2 between the article assemblies 30. The control device 55 or machine control 56 calculates the necessary third distance A3 based on the known information and the sensory-determined data as well as on known or sensory-determined values ​​regarding the overhang area ÜB and controls the setting devices 50 accordingly (see Figures 2 to 4).

[0096] According to a further embodiment, the distance A is set based on sensory detection of the packaging blanks 20 and / or the first distance A1 of the packaging blanks 20 within the magazine 2 or for the nested arrangement of the packaging blanks 20 in the magazine 2 and sensory detection of the second distance A2 between the provided article assemblies 30. The control device 55 or machine control 56 calculates the necessary third distance A3 based on the sensory-determined data and on known or sensory-determined values ​​for the overhang area ÜB and controls the setting devices 50 accordingly (see Figures 2 to 4).

[0097] Figures 2 to 4 show various embodiments of a packaging device according to Fig. 1.

[0098] Fig. 2 shows a first embodiment in which the change in the distance A between the packaging blanks 20 from a first distance A1 to the third distance A3 is performed by means of a removal device 3*. In particular, the removal device 3* receives two packaging blanks 20 arranged at a first distance A1 in the magazine 2, divides them by means of suitable adjustment devices 50 during transfer to the intermediate station 4, and deposits them within the intermediate station 4 with a third distance A3 formed between the two packaging blanks 20.

[0099] For example, the gripping elements 43 of the removal device 3 are designed with variable spacing, for example, by arranging the gripping elements 43 on an adjustment device 50 designed as a guide rail. By displacing at least one of the gripping elements 43 along this guide rail 50, the spacing between the gripping elements 43 and thus the spacing between the packaging blanks 20 gripped by the gripping elements 43 is changed accordingly and adapted to the desired second pitch.

[0100] Fig. 3 shows a second embodiment in which the change in the distance A of the packaging blanks 20 from a first distance A1 to the third distance A3 is carried out by means of the application device 6*. In particular, it is provided that the removal device 3 receives two packaging blanks 20 arranged at a first distance A1 in the magazine 2 and arranges them at the first distance A1 within the intermediate station 4. Subsequently, after appropriate handling within the intermediate station 4, the two packaging blanks 20 are grasped by the application device 6* and, before being applied to the two assemblies 30, are brought to the appropriate pitch, i.e. to the third distance A3, by a suitable adjustment device 50.

[0101] For example, the gripping elements 45 of the application device 6 are designed with variable spacing, for example, by arranging the gripping elements 45 on an adjustment device 50 designed as a guide rail. By displacing at least one of the gripping elements 45 along this guide rail, the spacing between the gripping elements 45 and thus the spacing between the packaging blanks 20 gripped by the gripping elements 45 is changed accordingly and adapted to the desired second pitch.

[0102] The handling of the two packaging blanks 20 within the intermediate station 4 by the at least one handling device 5 can, for example, provide for the alignment and / or centering of the two packaging blanks 20 for subsequent application to the assemblies 30. In this case, the at least one handling device 5 of the intermediate station 4 can be designed as an alignment and / or centering device 7 or can comprise an alignment and / or centering device 7. The alignment and / or centering device 7 is designed to align and / or center the packaging blanks 20 for subsequent reception by the application device 6, 6*.

[0103] Alternatively or additionally, the packaging blanks 20 can be suitably prepared within the intermediate station 4 for subsequent application to the article assemblies. For example, the packaging blanks 20 are unfolded and / or folded over and / or glued and / or pre-broken at least in some areas within the intermediate station 40. For this purpose, the at least one handling device 5 can be designed as a folding device 8 and / or a gluing device 9 and / or a pre-breaking device 10.

[0104] The folding device 8 can, for example, be designed to unfold a partial region of the respective packaging blank 20 to form a carrying handle region. For example, a central region between two rows of through-openings 22 is folded upwards out of a horizontal plane encompassing the through-openings 22. This upwardly folded region projects upwards above the articles 31 in the finished packaging unit 32 and can thus be easily grasped by the customer for carrying the packaging unit 32.

[0105] An alternative folding device 8 can provide for edge regions of the packaging blanks 20 to be folded downwards to form an outer surface of the apron that subsequently partially encompasses the article 31. In this case, it can additionally be provided that an adhesive device 9 is assigned to the folding device 8, which glues partial regions of the downwardly folded edge regions together to form and / or stabilize the apron.

[0106] It is preferably provided that the intermediate station 4 comprises for each of the two packaging blanks 20 an alignment and / or centering device 7 and / or a folding device 8 and / or a gluing device 9 and / or a pre-breaking device 10.

[0107] A pre-breaking device 10 can be used in particular to create a resistance force in an edge region of the through-openings 22 of the packaging blank 20 during the subsequent application of the packaging blank

[0108] 20 on at least two articles 31 of compilation 30.

[0109] For example, the pre-breaking device 10 comprises at least one stretching die, but preferably a plurality of stretching dies, which are suitable for stretching and / or widening the edge regions of the at least one passage opening 22 of the packaging blank 20. In this case, the pre-treatment at least slightly increases the average diameter of the at least one passage opening 22. As a result, an upper region of the articles 31 with a maximum diameter, which maximum diameter is preferably at least slightly larger than an average diameter of the passage openings 22, can be more easily passed through the respective passage opening 22.

[0110] For example, radially extending incisions are provided in the edge region of the through-openings 20. When the packaging blanks 20 are placed on the pre-breaking device, with the expansion dies each guided through the correspondingly formed through-openings 22, the sections of the packaging blanks 20 between the incisions are folded upward, thereby increasing the average diameter of the through-openings 22. The upwardly folded sections are also referred to as fixing tabs.

[0111] During the subsequent application of the packaging blanks 20 to the assemblies 30, the packaging blank 20 is engaged with the articles 31 such that the fixing tabs engage below a maximum diameter of the articles 31, thereby essentially securing the packaging blank 20 to the articles 31. Thus, the articles can no longer undergo any significant relative movements or positional changes relative to each other or to the packaging blank 20.

[0112] The packaging blank 20 can only be removed from the articles 31 of the packaging unit 32 formed in this way with increased force with an upward force component, whereby the packaging blank 20 is generally at least partially destroyed.

[0113] Through this pretreatment of the packaging blank 20, the application force with which the packaging blank 20 is pressed onto the articles 31 of the assembly 30 is significantly reduced compared to the application force that would be necessary to attach a packaging blank 20 to the articles 31 without pretreatment. This pretreatment can thus reduce the risk of damaging the articles 31 when applying the packaging blank 20. In this case, even articles 31 with a thinner wall thickness can be used without being damaged when applying the packaging blank 20.

[0114] Fig. 4 shows a third embodiment in which the change in the spacing A of the packaging blanks 20 from a first spacing A1 to the third spacing A3 is performed within an intermediate station 4*. In particular, it is provided that the removal device 3 receives two packaging blanks 20 arranged at a first spacing A1 in the magazine 2 and arranges them at the first spacing A1 within the intermediate station 4*. Within the intermediate station 4*, the two packaging blanks 20 are brought to the desired pitch with the third spacing A3 and are then grasped by the application device 6 while maintaining the third spacing A3 and applied to two provided article assemblies 30.

[0115] In particular, the intermediate station 4* is designed to perform a pulling movement to adjust the third distance A3 between the two packaging blanks 20. In particular, a pneumatically or hydraulically induced pulling movement can take place within the intermediate station 4.

[0116] For example, it can be provided that the intermediate station 4* comprises two storage locations 11 for the packaging blanks 20.

[0117] An embodiment can provide that the at least one handling device 5 of the intermediate station 4* is formed by at least one movable storage location 11, which at least one movable storage location 11 is movable relative to the other storage location 11, so that the relative distance between the two storage locations 11 is variable.

[0118] In the illustrated embodiment, both storage locations 11-1, 11-2 are designed to be movable relative to one another to adjust the distance A between the two packaging blanks 20, as indicated by the black double arrows. For example, at least one of the storage locations 11 or the majority of the storage locations 11 or, for example, all of the storage locations 11 are each designed to be movable via an adjustment device 50, which adjustment device 50 is formed by a carriage guide 16 on a guide rail 15 or the like (see Figures 5 to 7). By moving at least one storage location 11 along the guide rail 15, the distance to an adjacent storage location 11 can be changed, in particular reduced or increased.

[0119] In the embodiment described here, the desired third distance A3 between the packaging blanks 20 is thus set by the at least one handling device 5 of the intermediate station 4.

[0120] In addition, it can be provided that at least one further handling device 5* is assigned to each of the two workstations 11, for example an alignment and / or centering device 7 described in connection with Figures 2 and 3 and / or a folding device 8 and / or a gluing device 9 and / or a pre-breaking device 10 or the like.

[0121] A further embodiment, not shown, can provide that a first intermediate distance between the packaging blanks 20 is set by the removal device 3 or by the intermediate station 4 and that, following a handling step carried out within the intermediate station 4, the desired third distance A3 is set by the intermediate station 4 or by the application device 6.

[0122] The intermediate spacing can be larger than the first spacing A1 and smaller than the third spacing A3. According to an alternative embodiment, it may also be expedient to make the intermediate spacing larger than the third spacing A3. The size of the intermediate spacing depends in particular on the type of handling of the packaging blanks and / or on the size or space requirement of a corresponding handling device 5, 5* within the intermediate station 4.

[0123] In all embodiments presented here, it is provided in particular that the application device 4 is designed to receive the at least two packaging blanks 20 simultaneously or substantially simultaneously and to apply them simultaneously or substantially simultaneously to a corresponding number of at least two assemblies 30 of articles 31. Figures 5 to 7 show various views of an intermediate station 4* designed as a drawing unit 14. In particular, Fig. 5 shows a perspective view, Fig. 6 shows a side view, and Fig. 7 shows a top view.

[0124] The warping unit 14 comprises two storage locations 11 for two packaging blanks 20 (see also Fig. 4). In particular, these storage locations 11 are each designed as an interchangeable format part 12 or format table 13 and can be exchanged and thus individually adapted depending on the size of the packaging blanks. The movable storage locations 11 form a first handling device 5, which first handling device 5 is designed to set a third distance A3 between the two packaging blanks 20 (see Fig. 4).

[0125] The storage locations 11 designed as format parts 12 can be equipped with at least one further handling device 5*, as already described in connection with Fig. 4, to the description of which reference is hereby made.

[0126] By way of example, it is shown that the storage locations 11 are each equipped with a folding device 8. In particular, the folding device 8 is designed as a folding wedge 40. When a packaging blank is placed on a storage location 11, a central region of the packaging blank is unfolded to form a carrying handle.

[0127] In particular, it can be provided that the additional handling devices 5* can each be arranged individually at the storage location 11 and can be replaced there. Alternatively, it can be provided that the additional handling devices 5* can be replaced together with the storage location 11 designed as a format part 12.

[0128] In the embodiment shown here, each storage location 11 is arranged on a guide rail 15 via a slide guide 16. The guide rails 15 assigned to the two storage locations 11 are aligned with one another, so that the storage locations 11 can be moved toward or away from one another to change the distance A between the two storage locations 11. For this movement, each workstation 11 is assigned a drive 17, for example, a hydraulic cylinder 18 or a pneumatic cylinder 19. However, a motor drive, for example, by means of an electric motor or similar, would also be possible.

[0129] The warping unit 14 can also be designed as a complete format part. To facilitate removal of the warping unit 14 from the intermediate station 14, it can be equipped with suitable gripping elements 41, 42.

[0130] The packaging device 1 described here with intermediate station 4 increases the flexibility in the production of packaging units 32.

[0131] As a rule, the packaging blanks 20 are arranged in a space-saving manner within the magazine 2 (see Figures 1 to 4). This means that the at least two stacks 21 of packaging blanks 20 are often arranged only slightly spaced from one another or even adjacent to one another within the magazine 2. A nested arrangement of the packaging blanks 20 within the magazine 2 is also possible.

[0132] Due to the spacing of the packaging blanks 20 performed within the packaging device 1, it is therefore not necessary to already provide the packaging blanks 20 in the magazine 2 in a suitable arrangement, in particular with a suitable spacing. Furthermore, the individual adjustment of the spacing makes it possible to use the same packaging blanks 20 in different production modes, in which different production modes the article assemblies 30 are fed to the application device 6 at different spacings from one another.

[0133] By handling the packaging blanks 20 within an intermediate station 4, the corresponding tools do not need to be contained in an application head of the application device 6 comprising the gripping elements 45, which allows the device to be designed significantly lighter and more technically simpler. This reduces the complexity of the application device 6, making it less susceptible to errors and thus production downtimes due to maintenance or repair work.

[0134] In addition, the handling steps are not carried out while further

[0135] Forces such as acceleration forces act on the packaging blanks 20. This is particularly advantageous if the handling includes the application of adhesive for bonding processes.

[0136] The embodiments, examples, and variants of the preceding paragraphs, the claims or the following description and figures, including their various views or respective individual features, may be used independently of one another or in any combination. Features described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments, unless the features are incompatible.

[0137] A final note should be given at this point regarding the descriptions of embodiments of the invention, whereby these descriptive passages each refer to the attached drawings. When reference is generally made to "schematic" representations and views in the context of the figures and their descriptions, this in no way means that the figures and their descriptions are of secondary importance with regard to the disclosure of the invention. A person skilled in the art will be perfectly capable of deriving sufficient information from the schematic and abstractly drawn representations to facilitate their understanding of the invention, without their understanding being in any way impaired by the drawn proportions, which may not be exactly to scale.The figures thus enable the skilled reader to derive a better understanding of the inventive concept formulated in a more general and / or abstract manner in the claims and in the general part of the description on the basis of the more concretely explained implementations of the method according to the invention and the more concretely explained mode of operation of the packaging device 1 according to the invention.

[0138] The invention has been described with reference to a preferred embodiment. However, it is conceivable for a person skilled in the art that modifications or changes to the invention can be made without departing from the scope of the following claims.

[0139] 1 Packaging precaution

[0140] 2 Magazine

[0141] 3 Withdrawal device

[0142] 3* Withdrawal device

[0143] 4 Intermediate station

[0144] 4* stopover

[0145] 5 Handling device

[0146] 5* Additional handling equipment

[0147] 6 Application setup

[0148] 6* Application device

[0149] 7 Alignment and / or centering device

[0150] 8 Folding device

[0151] 9 Gluing device

[0152] 10 Pre-crushing device

[0153] 11 storage space

[0154] 12 Format part

[0155] 13 Format table

[0156] 14 Warping unit

[0157] 15 Guide rail

[0158] 16 Slide guide

[0159] 17 Drive

[0160] 18 hydraulic cylinders

[0161] 19 pneumatic cylinders

[0162] 20 Packaging cutting

[0163] 21 stacks

[0164] 22 Passage opening

[0165] 30 compilation, article compilation

[0166] 31 articles

[0167] 32 packaging units

[0168] 33 cans

[0169] 40 folding wedge

[0170] 41 Handle element

[0171] 42 handle element

[0172] 43 Gripping element 44 Suction gripper

[0173] 45 gripping element

[0174] 46 suction cups

[0175] 50 Adjustment device

[0176] 55 Control device

[0177] 56 Machine control

[0178] A distance

[0179] A1 first distance

[0180] A2 second distance

[0181] A3 third distance

[0182] TR transport direction

[0183] UB overhang width

Claims

Claims 1. Packaging device (1) comprising - a magazine (2) for packaging blanks (20), in which magazine (2) at least two stacks (21) of packaging blanks (20) are arranged or in which magazine (2) packaging blanks (20) are arranged at least partially nested, - a removal device (3), which removal device (3) is designed to receive at least two packaging blanks (20) from at least two different stacks (21) from the magazine (2) and to deposit the at least two packaging blanks (20) within an intermediate station (4) or which removal device (3) is designed to receive at least two packaging blanks (20) from the nested arrangement from the magazine (2) and to deposit the at least two packaging blanks (20) within an intermediate station (4), - an intermediate station (4), which intermediate station (4) comprises at least one handling device (5) for at least one of the packaging blanks (20), - an application device (6), which application device (6) is designed to receive the at least two packaging blanks (20) from the intermediate station (4) and to apply the packaging blanks (20) to a respective assembly (30) of articles (31), wherein the removal device (3) and / or the intermediate station (4) and / or the application device (6) is / are designed to change a distance (A) between the at least two packaging blanks (20).

2. Packaging device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one handling device (5) of the intermediate station (4) is an aligning and / or centering device (7), which aligning and / or centering device (7) is designed to align and / or center the packaging blanks (20) for subsequent reception by the application device (6).

3. Packaging device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one handling device (5) is a folding device (8) and / or an adhesive device (9) and / or a pre-breaking device (10).

4. Packaging device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate station (4) comprises at least two storage locations (11) for the packaging blanks (20).

5. Packaging device (1) according to claim 4, wherein the at least one handling device (5) of the intermediate station (4) is formed by at least one movable storage location (11).

6. Packaging device (1) according to claim 5, wherein the at least one storage location (11) is arranged on at least one guide (15).

7. Packaging device (1) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the at least one storage location (11) is assigned at least one drive (17) for moving the storage location (11) along the at least one guide (15), which drive (17) is formed in particular by a hydraulic cylinder (18) or by a pneumatic cylinder (19).

8. Packaging device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the application device (6) is designed to receive the at least two packaging blanks (20) simultaneously or substantially simultaneously and to apply them simultaneously or substantially simultaneously to a corresponding number of at least two combinations of articles (31).

9. Packaging device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein only the intermediate station (4) is designed to change a distance (A) between the at least two packaging blanks (20).

10. Method for combining at least two articles (31) via a packaging blank (20), wherein - at least two packaging blanks (20) from at least two different stacks (21) are picked up from the magazine (2) and placed on an intermediate station (4) or - wherein at least two packaging blanks (20) from a nested arrangement are picked up from the magazine (2) and placed on an intermediate station (4), - wherein at least one of the packaging blanks (20) is handled within the intermediate station (4), after which the at least two packaging blanks (20) are picked up and each applied to a collection (30) of articles (31); - wherein in connection with the removal of the packaging blanks (20) from the magazine (2) and the depositing on the intermediate station (4) and / or within the intermediate station (4) and / or in connection with the picking up of the packaging blanks (20) from the intermediate station (4) and the application to the assemblies of articles (31), at least one distance (A) between the at least two packaging blanks (20) is changed.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein the at least two packaging blanks (20) are aligned and / or centered within the intermediate station (4).

12. The method according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the at least two packaging blanks (20) are prepared within the intermediate station (4) for subsequent application to the assemblies of articles (31).

13. Method according to claim 12, wherein the at least two packaging blanks (20) are unfolded and / or folded over and / or glued and / or pre-broken at least in regions within the intermediate station (4).

14. Method according to one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the handling within the intermediate station (4) causes the change in the distance between the at least two packaging blanks (20), in particular wherein a pneumatically or hydraulically effected pulling movement takes place within the intermediate station (4).

15. Method according to one of claims 10 to 14, wherein the at least two packaging blanks (20) are each picked up simultaneously or substantially simultaneously by the intermediate station (4) and are applied simultaneously or substantially simultaneously to a corresponding number of at least two assemblies of articles (31).

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