Packaging machine with removal unit

Abstract

The invention relates to a packaging machine (100) for filling goods into a packaging (N), like a netting, the packaging machine (100) comprising: gathering means (130); and a clipping tool assembly (120) including at least one punch (122a) and at least one die (124a), for applying at least one closure means (C) in a closing region (CR) of the clipping tool assembly (120), wherein the packaging machine (100) further comprises at least one removal unit (150) for removing a closure means (C) or remains thereof stuck in a portion of the clipping tool assembly (120) and / or the gathering means (130); wherein the removal unit (150) is a punch side removal unit (150) arranged on a punch side of the closing region (CR), and configured to act towards the closing region (CR). The invention further relates to a method and to a punch side removal unit.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a packaging machine for filling goods, like fruit, in a feeding direction into a tubular packaging, like a tubular netting. The packaging machine of the present invention can also be configured for filling a coherent filling into a tubular packaging. The packaging machine comprises gathering means for forming a plait-like portion of the tubular packaging, and a clipping tool assembly including at least one punch and at least one die, for applying at least one closure means, like a closure clip, to the plait-like portion and closing said closure means, in a closing region of the clipping tool assembly, wherein the punch is reversibly movable towards the die from a punch side of the closing region.

[0002] In practice, packaging machines for packaging goods, like fruit or vegetables, into nettings or bags are known. Such packaging machines include a chute for filling goods into a netting provided at one end of the chute. The chute can be an open chute or circumferentially closed. After a defined amount of goods has been filled into such a netting, the netting opening is gathered into a plait-like portion and closed by a closing element, like a strip of metal or plastic, or a closure clip of metal or plastic. In the case that a clip is used for closing the netting, the clip is applied to a gathered portion of said netting, and closed by respective closing tools, like a punch and a die. Such a packaging machine is known from US patent 7,237,369.

[0003] In such known packaging machines, the problem exists that the closure means may break during the closing operation, in particular while being deformed between the closing tools. Remains of the broken closure means can get stuck between the closing tools or in elements of the closing tool assembly, like guide elements for guiding the punch or the next clip to be closed, or between the gathering means or elements thereof. Moreover, closure clips attached to the packaging material for forming the beginning of a new packaging to be filled can also get stuck in a portion of the clipping tool assembly and / or the gathering means. These effects can lead to downtimes, damage the packaging machine and / or to production losses.

[0004] It is, therefore, an object of the present invention, to provide a packaging machine and a method for controlling a packaging machine, which overcome these disadvantages, and which enable a save and efficient production process.

[0005] According to a first aspect, the present invention solves this problem with a packaging machine for filling a filling or goods, like fruit, in a feeding direction into a tubular packaging, like a tubular netting. The packaging machine comprises gathering means for forming a plait-like portion of the tubular packaging, and a clipping tool assembly including at least one punch and at least one die, for applying at least one closure means, like a closure clip, to the plait-like portion and for closing said closure means, in a closing region of the clipping tool assembly, wherein the punch is reversibly movable towards the die from a punch side of the closing region.

[0006] The inventive packaging machine further comprises at least one removal unit for removing a closure means or remains thereof stuck in a portion of the clipping tool assembly and / or the gathering means and / or for preventing a closure means or remains thereof from getting stuck in a portion of the clipping tool assembly and / or the gathering means, wherein the removal unit is a punch side removal unit, that is arranged on the punch side of the closing region, and configured to act towards the closing region.

[0007] The removal unit is configured to actively remove a closure clip or remains thereof, which are stuck in a portion of the clipping tool assembly or the gathering means out of the respective portion of the clipping tool assembly or the gathering means. Additionally or alternatively, the removal unit is configured to actively prevent a closure clip or remains thereof from getting stuck in a portion of the clipping tool assembly or a portion of the gathering means. For example, the removal unit can be operated to prevent a clip from entering into a punch guide, such as a guide slot, for guiding the punch during its movement towards and away from the closing region. It shall be understood that the removal unit can be configured to only prevent clips from getting stuck, to only remove stuck clips or to prevent clips from getting stuck and to remove stuck clips. Moreover, it shall be understood that a removal unit configured for removing closure clips of remains thereof which are stuck in a portion of the clipping tool assembly or a portion of the gathering means does not have to be able to remove stuck clips in every situation. In some cases manual removal of stuck clips or remains thereof may still be required, in particular if a clip is stuck firmly and a removal force that can be provided by the removal unit is not strong enough to remove a clip.

[0008] For example, the removal unit can be configured to remove a closure clip from a guide portion of the at least one punch. It shall be understood that the removal unit actively provides a removal force to the closure clip to be removed. Preferably, the removal unit is configured to remove a closure clip that is attached to the end of the section of the tubular packaging to be filled with goods next from that is stuck in a portion of the clipping tool assembly or the gathering means from the respective portion.

[0009] In particular, when using closure clips made of plastic, the end of the netting to be filled next, which may also be made of plastic, and the plastic clip attached thereto, have a relatively low weight. Due to the low weight, it may happen, that said end of the netting and the closure clip attached thereto do not fall out of the clipping tool assembly due to gravity alone or get stuck in a portion of the clipping tool assembly and / or the gathering means respectively. The punch side removal unit is configured to move the end of the netting with the clip attached thereto out of the respective portion of clipping tool assembly and / or the gathering means, such that the netting may be securely filled and closed thereafter.

[0010] Even if a closure clip breaks during the closing operation, and remains thereof get stuck in the clipping tool assembly, like in a guide portion for the punch or the closure clip, or the gathering means, the removal unit may remove said remains out of the clipping tool assembly and / or the gathering means (or a portion thereof), to ensure a save closing operation.

[0011] The closing region is or comprises the region, in which the plait-like portion is arranged for being closed, and into which the clipping tools are moved, for applying a closure clip onto said plait-like portion and for closing said closure clip. In some embodiments, the removal unit can be configured for removing a closure clip or remains thereof from a cavity of the clipping tool assembly, in particular from a guide portion or guide for guiding a closure clip and / or a clipping tool to the closing region and / or. In some embodiments, the removal unit can be provided such that the closure clip remain in the closing region after removal from the cavity. The removal unit can be configured to release a clip, in particular a stuck clip, from a cavity of the clipping tool assembly. For example, the removal unit can be configured to remove a clip stuck in a clip guide, an active surface of a clipping tool being in contact with the closure clip during the closing operation and / or a tool guide out of the clip guide or tool guide respectively and preferably to the closing region. The closure clip can be subsequently removed from the closing region by gravity when filling or goods are filled into the packaging closed at one end by the closure clip. Alternatively or additionally, the removal unit can be configured to prevent closure clips or remains thereof from getting stuck in the closing region and / or a cavity of the clipping tool assembly, like a punch guide and / or clip guide. To this end, the removal unit can be configured to be operated prior, during and / or after a closing operation.

[0012] The punch side is the side of the closing region, from which the punch advances towards the closing region and / or the die. Providing the removal unit on the punch side allows effective removal of closure clips or remains thereof from a guide portion or guide of the punch, a guide portion or guide for guiding the closure clips towards the closing region or other parts or portions of the clipping tool assembly arranged on the punch side. For example, the punch side removal unit can be configured to remove closure clips or remains thereof from a portion of the gathering means provided on the punch side. Therefore, the punch side removal unit can prevent production down times and increase reliability and efficiency of the packaging machine.

[0013] In a first preferred embodiment, the punch side removal unit is a pneumatically acting unit. A pneumatically acting unit uses pressurized air as a means for removing a closure clip or remains thereof. Preferably, the pneumatically acting punch side removal unit directs a jet of air to a portion of the clipping tool assembly, in which closure clip or remains thereof can get stuck. The jet of air can push closure clips out of the closing region and / or a cavity of the clipping tool assembly. Additionally or alternatively a jet of air can prevent clips or remains thereof from getting stuck. In the case that the packaging machine is pneumatically driven or includes pneumatically driven components, the same source of pressurized air may be used for driving the packaging machine and the punch side removal unit. Preferably, a pneumatically driven punch side removal unit does not include movable mechanical components or elements that may interfere other components of said packaging machine. Moreover, integrating a pneumatically acting unit can be integrated easier compared to a mechanically acting removal unit. Time to market and / or development cost can be reduced.

[0014] However, the punch side removal unit may also be a mechanically acting removal unit that includes a removal element, like a pusher element for pushing the closure clip or remains thereof out of the closing region of the clipping tools. The inventive punch side removal unit may be of any suitable design.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the punch side removal unit has an at least approximately elongate main body, the axial length of which is larger than its width and / or height, with a first end and a second end, and a fluid passage extending from the first end towards the second end and / or from a connection element of the fluid passage towards the second end and / or from a connection element of the fluid passage towards a nozzle opening of a nozzle of the fluid passage. The fluid passage terminates at the second end in a nozzle directed towards the closing region. In this configuration, a fluid stream, in particular, a stream of pressurized air, may be directed into the closing region, for removing a closure clip or remains thereof out of the clipping tool assembly or a portion thereof.

[0016] The nozzle may be formed integrally with the main body, or may be a separate element that may be attached to the second end of the main body, such that it is in fluid connection with the passage. Furthermore, the nozzle is formed such that it guides the fluid stream in a defined direction, preferably towards portions of the clipping tool assembly, like guides for the closure clip or guides for the clipping tool, and / or of the gathering means and / or into the central region of the closing region.

[0017] In the case that the nozzle is a separate element, it may be exchanged by another nozzle, for adapting the flow direction of the fluid to the clipping tool arrangement, or by a nozzle enabling a larger or lower fluid flow rate.

[0018] Further advantageously, at the first end of the punch side removal unit, the passage may be provided with a connecting element for connecting a pressurized air source to the punch side removal unit. Said connecting element may be an internal thread into which a fitting part may be screwed, which enables a connection to a pressurized fluid source, or one part of a snap-fit connection, like a bayonet lock.

[0019] In an advantageous configuration, the main body includes an attachment portion, for attaching the removal unit to the packaging machine. Said attachment portion may be of any suitable design. The attachment portion may have an outer shape that enables a form-fit and / or a force-fit attachment of the punch side removal unit to the clipping tool assembly, the gathering means or an element thereof.

[0020] In a further embodiment of a packaging machine according to the present invention, the clipping tool assembly includes a second punch for applying and closing a second closure means. In this arrangement, the punch side removal unit is arranged upstream the first punch when seen in the feeding direction.

[0021] In this embodiment, the punch side removal unit removes the closure clip out of the clipping tool assembly and / or the gathering means, which is attached to the end of the packaging material next to be filled with goods, since this end with the closure clip attached thereto, are of relatively low weight, such that said closure clip may get stuck in the closing region, whereas the second closure clip being attached to the just filled portion of the packaging material, is moved out of the closing region by the weight of the filled packaging.

[0022] In another preferred embodiment, the clipping tool assembly includes a second punch for applying and closing a second closure means, wherein the second punch is arranged downstream of the first punch along the feeding direction. Preferably, the punch side removal unit is associated with the first punch for removing closure clips and / or remains thereof from portions of the clipping tool assembly related to the first punch. For example and preferably, the punch side removal unit can be configured to remove closure clips and / or remains thereof from a first clip guide for guiding clips to be closed by the first punch to the closing region, from a first punch guide for guiding the first punch and / or from a first gathering means provided next to the first punch, preferably upstream of the first punch with respect to the feeding direction. Preferably, the packaging machine comprises only punch side removal units associated with the first punch. Particularly preferred, the packaging machine comprises only a single punch side removal unit. Since the weight of a filled packaging might be enough to remove closure clips attached thereto from the closing region, it can be sufficient to provide only punch side removal units for the upstream punch of the packaging machine. Through this complexity of the packaging machine and / or cost can be reduced.

[0023] However, it is also possible to mount a second punch side removal unit to the packaging machine, e.g. downstream the second punch, for removing a closure clip or remains thereof stuck in a portion of the clipping tool assembly and / or the gathering means from the respective portion.

[0024] In a further embodiment of a packaging machine according to the present invention, the packaging machine comprises at least one die side removal unit acting towards the closing area, for removing a closure means or remains thereof stuck in a portion of the clipping tool assembly, particularly, in die related portions of the clipping tool assembly, like a die holder or the die, and / or in a portion of the gathering means. Preferably, the die side removal unit is configured to push a closure means just closed out of the die.

[0025] The die side removal unit is arranged on the die side of the closing region, and acts towards the closing region. Preferably, the die side is opposite the punch side. However, in some embodiments, the die side alternatively or additionally may extend to a lateral side of the closing region. It is further possible that the die is configured to move laterally along the closing region, and that the die side removal unit is configured to move together with the die. Preferably, the die side removal unit is a pneumatically acting removal unit, which includes a fluid passage through which a pressurized fluid is guided into the closing region. For example, the die side removal can be configured to provide a jet of air for removing closure clips or remains thereof preferably out of the die. Alternatively, the die side removal unit may be a mechanically action unit including a mechanically acting element, like pusher element.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the at least one punch side removal unit and the at least one die side removal unit are adapted to be provided with pressurized air having at least approximately identical pressure. Thereby, the closure clip or remains thereof may securely be removed from the clipping tool assembly and / or the gathering means, or portions thereof. The packaging machine can comprise a compressed air supply that is adapted to provide the die side removal unit and the punch side removal unit with pressurized air having at least approximately identical pressure. The compressed air supply can include a pressure tank, a compressor, one or more valves, a controller and / or one or more conduits or fluid lines.

[0027] It has to be understood that minor deviations in pressure may occur, dependent on the length of the fluid lines or the flow resistance of the connection elements. However, it may also be intended to provide fluid with different pressure to the at least one punch side removal unit and the at least one die side removal unit, e.g. in adaption to the design of the clipping tools, the kind of closure clips or the like.

[0028] In a further preferred embodiment, the packaging machine comprises a control unit configured to control operation of the at least one punch side removal unit and the at least one die side removal unit. This allows to adapt the operation of the at least one punch side removal unit and the at least one die side removal unit to different production processes and / or different kinds of materials, like packaging material or closure clips and the like.

[0029] Further according to the present invention, there is provided a method for controlling a packaging machine for filling goods, like fruit, in a feeding direction into a tubular packaging, like a tubular netting. The method can also be a method for controlling a packaging machine for filling a filling material, in particular a coherent filling material, in a feeding direction into a tubular packaging. The packaging machine comprises gathering means for forming a plait-like portion to the tubular packaging, a clipping tool assembly including a punch and a die, for applying at least one closure means, like a closure clip, to the plait-like portion, and closing said closure means, in a closing region of the clipping tool assembly. The packaging machine further comprises at least one removal unit for removing a closure means or remains thereof struck in a portion of the clipping tool assembly and / or the gathering means and / or for preventing a closure means or remains thereof from getting stuck in a portion of the clipping tool assembly and / or the gathering means, wherein the removal unit is arranged on the punch side of the closing region and acts towards the closing region.

[0030] The inventive method comprises the steps of gathering the filled tubular or bag-shaped packaging by the gathering means, for forming a plait-like portion thereto, applying a closure means, like a closure clip, by the clipping tool assembly to said plait-like portion and closing said closure means, by reversibly moving the punch towards the die from the punch side of the closing region, and operating the punch side removal unit, wherein the punch side removal unit acts towards the closing region from a punch side of the closing region for removing a closure means or remains thereof stuck in a portion of the clipping tool assembly and / or the gathering means and / or for preventing a closure means or remains thereof from getting stuck in a portion of the clipping tool assembly and / or the gathering means. The step of reversibly moving the punch towards the die for closing the closure means includes a reverse movement of the punch away from the die after the closure means has been closed. The method may further comprises the step of reversibly moving the die to the closing region. The die can be moved before movement of the punch or simultaneously with the punch. In some embodiments movement of the punch can be initiated prior to movement of the die, in particular if a punch travel of the punch is longer than a travel of the die.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment, the step of applying a closure means includes reversibly moving the die from a neutral position to an engagement position. In the engagement position, the punch can engage the die for closing the closure means. Preferably, the step of gathering the filled tubular packaging is performed prior to moving the die from the neutral position to the engagement position. Preferably, movement of the die is a lateral movement of the die with respect to a movement direction of the punch. In other embodiments, the die can be stationary.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the method further comprises the step of cutting the filled packaging from a supply of packaging material, preferably by a cutter. The cutter can be a pneumatically driven knife, blade or the like. Preferably, the step of cutting is performed prior, during or after the step of operating the punch side removal unit.

[0033] Preferably, the punch side removal unit is a pneumatically acting unit. The step of operating the punch side removal unit preferably comprises the step of directing pressurized air through a nozzle of the punch side removal unit towards the closing area.

[0034] Preferably, the punch side removal unit is operated at least during the reverse movement of the punch away from the die.

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment of the inventive method, the packaging machine further comprises at least one die side removal unit acting towards the closing region from the die side, for removing a closure means or remains thereof stuck in a portion of the clipping tool assembly and / or the gathering means , wherein the method further comprises the step of operating the at least one die side removal unit for acting towards the closing region, for removing a closure means or remains thereof from the closing region. The step of operating the at least one die side removal unit can include the step of directing pressurized air through a nozzle of the die side removal unit, particularly preferred towards the closing region and / or a die cavity of the die.

[0036] Moreover, in the inventive method, wherein the packaging machine further comprises a control unit, said control unit preferably controls the operation of the punch side removal unit and the at least one die side removal unit. Preferably, the control unit controls the punch side removal unit and the die side removal unit such that the punch side removal unit and the die side removal unit operate at least partially simultaneously.

[0037] The punch side removal unit and the at least one die side removal unit may be operated in various ways, e.g. dependent on the kind of products to be produced, the production process, the kind and size of the clipping tool and the like. The punch side removal unit and the at least one die side removal unit may be operated simultaneously or subsequently and / or with approximately equal or with different fluid pressure. The fluid pressure may further be adapted depending on the kind and material, like the clip material, the packaging material or the filling goods. Furthermore, the fluid pressure may be selected dependent on the closing force for closing the closure clips. The operation of the punch side removal unit and the at least one die side removal unit may automatically be initiated be the control unit, e.g. at the start of the packaging process. Alternatively, the operation of the punch side removal unit and the at least one die side removal unit may manually be initiated by an operator.

[0038] The inventive method for controlling a packaging machine thereby realizes all advantages explained in conjunction with the inventive packaging machine.

[0039] Further according to the present invention, there is provided a removal unit for use in a packaging machine according to any of claims 1 to 9, for removing a closure means or remains thereof stuck in a portion of a clipping tool assembly and / or gathering means of the packaging machine. Removal of a closure means or remains thereof may be executed according to the method of claims 10 to 14.

[0040] The removal unit, particularly as a punch side removal unit, may be provided as a retrofit part to be mounted to an existing packaging machine.

[0041] Further advantages and preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in the following together with the drawings listed below. The expressions "left", "right", "below" and "above" used in the following description, are referred to the drawings in an alignment such that the reference numbers and the notation of the figures used can be read in normal orientation.

[0042] In the accompanying figures: Fig. 1is a schematic view showing the principal design of a packaging machine for filling goods into a tubular packaging; Fig. 2is a perspective view to an embodiment of a packaging machine according to the present invention, which includes a punch side removal unit; Fig. 3is a perspective view to the clipping tool assembly and the gathering means of the packaging machine of Fig.2; Fig. 4is a perspective view to the clipping tool assembly of the packaging machine of Fig.2; Fig. 5is a perspective view to the punch side removal unit of the packaging machine of Fig.2; and Fig. 6is cross sectional view to the punch side removal unit shown in Fig. 5.

[0043] The general structure of a packaging machine 1 for filling goods G, like fruit, into a tubular packaging N, like a tubular netting, is shown schematically in Fig. 1.

[0044] As its main components, packaging machine 1, which is also called clipping machine in the present disclosure, comprises a chute 10 for feeding goods G in a feeding direction F into a tubular packaging or tubular netting N, gathering means 30 for forming a plait-like portion P to tubular netting N, and a clipping tool assembly 20 for applying at least one closure means, such as a closure clip C to plait-like portion P.

[0045] Chute 10 may have the form of a tube and may be made of a suitable material, like a metal. As it can be seen in Fig. 1, tubular netting N is stored on chute 10, such that goods G, fed in a feeding direction F into chute 10, are filled into tubular netting N that is closed by a closure clip C at its front end, i.e. the end facing in feeding direction F. Thereby, tubular netting N is pulled off from chute 10 by the goods G filled into the netting N.

[0046] As it can be seen in Fig.1, gathering means 30 for forming plait-like portion P into tubular netting N, include a first displacer unit 32 and a second displacer unit 34, with first displacer unit 32 is positioned downstream second displacer unit 34, when referred to feeding direction F. First and second displacer units 32, 34 can each have a first and second displacer element which can be reversibly moved towards each other in a scissor-like manner to form the plait-like portion P. Alternatively, the displacer elements may have V-shaped portions facing each other, and the displacer elements are reversibly movable, preferably linearly movable, towards each other for gathering tubular netting N and for forming plait-like portion P thereto.

[0047] Clipping tool assembly 20 has a first clipping tool or punch 22 and a second clipping tool or die 24. Punch 22 and die 24 are reversibly moved towards each other for applying at least one closure means, such as a closure clip C to plait-like portion P, and for closing said closure clip C. It is possible to process so called R-clips, which are provided in a chain in which U-shaped clips are connected to each other at the free ends of the respective U-shape, whereby the first closure clip C in the chain is positioned in die 24 to be applied to plait-like portion P. Alternatively and in the packaging machine 1 shown in Figs. 2 to 4, it is also possible that so called S-clips are processed. For packaging machines processing S-clips only punch 22 can be moved towards die 22 for applying a U-shaped closure clip C to plait-like portion P or both punch 22 and die 24 can be moved. S-clips are provided in a line of clips with the clips are arranged side by side with their U-shape. Usually the front-most closure clip C is positioned below punch 22, to be separated from the line of clips, and to be applied to plait-like portion P by punch 22.

[0048] Furthermore, clipping tool assembly 20 may include two punches 22 and two dies 24, for applying two closure clips C to plait-like portion P, a first closure clip C for closing the rear end or upstream end of the portion of tubular netting N just filled with goods G, and a second closure clip C for closing the front end or downstream end of tubular netting N to be subsequently filled with goods G.

[0049] As it further can be seen in Fig.1, clipping machine 1 has a closing region CR, marked with a dotted line, which designates the region in which the plait-like portion P is arranged and in which the closure clip C is applied to plait-like portion P and closed. Punch 22 is arranged on the punch side of closing region CR, which is that side of closing region CR, from which punch 22 acts towards plait-like portion P. In Fig. 2 the punch side is the upper side of the closing region CR. Die 24 is arranged on the die side of closing region CR, which is that side of closing region CR, from which die 24 acts towards plait-like portion P. In Fig. 2, the die side is a lower side of the closing region CR.

[0050] A cutting device (not shown in Fig.1) may be provided, for cutting tubular netting N between the two closure clips applied to plait-like portion P, for separating the packaging just produced from the remaining tubular netting N. Alternatively, in the case that only one closure clip has been applied to plait-like portion P, the cutting device can be configured to cut tubular netting N immediately upstream of said closure clip C.

[0051] Packaging machine 1 or clipping machine 1 respectively may further include a discharge device, e.g. in the form of a chute 40, which is arranged downstream of the clipping tool assembly 20, for discharging the package of goods G just produced from clipping machine 1 into a discharge direction or transportation direction T, preferably by gravity. Alternatively, discharge device 40 may include a conveyor unit, like a belt conveyor or roller conveyor, for discharging the just produced package from clipping machine 1.

[0052] Clipping machine 1 further includes a control unit CU, for controlling the components of clipping machine 1 during the packaging operation.

[0053] Fig. 2 is an embodiment of a clipping machine 100 according to the present invention. Clipping machine 100 includes a clipping tool assembly 120 with a first pair of clipping tools including a first punch 122a and a first die 124a, a second pair of clipping tools, arranged downstream the first pair of clipping tools 122a, 124a when referred to feeding direction F, and including a second punch 122b and a second die 124b. The packaging machine 1 further comprises a punch drive 129 in the form of a piston / cylinder drive, for reversibly driving first and second punch 122a, 122b towards plait-like portion P (cf. Figs. 3, 4). Clipping tool assembly 120 will be explained in detail in conjunction with Figs. 3 and 4 below.

[0054] Clipping machine 100 further comprises gathering means 130, which will be explained in detail in conjunction with Fig. 3, and that has a first displacer unit 132 and a second displacer unit 134, with upper displacer elements 132a, 134a and lower displacer elements 132b, 134b (cf. Fig. 3), from which only the upper displacer elements 132a, 134a are shown in Fig. 1.

[0055] Clipping machine 100 further comprises a first magazine bar MB1 for guiding closure clips C to the first pair of clipping tools 122a, 124a and a second magazine bar MB2 for guiding closure clips C to the second pair of clipping tools 122b, 124b.

[0056] As it further can be seen in Fig. 2, clipping machine 100 further comprises a punch side removal unit 150 for removing closure clips C or remains thereof from closing region CR. Removal unit 150, which will be explained in detail in conjunction with Figs. 5 and 6, is arranged upstream the first pair of clipping tools 122a, 124a and on the punch side of closing region CR. Punch side removal unit acts on clipping region CR in a direction towards dies 124a, 124b, for removing a closure clip C or remains thereof from closing region CR.

[0057] Fig. 3 shows clipping tool assembly 120 and gathering means 130 of the packaging machine 100. First displacer unit 132 of gathering means 130 includes upper displacer element 132a that has an approximately V-shaped cut-out facing downwardly with respect to Fig. 3 and terminating in a slot, and lower displacer element 134a, only schematically shown in dotted lines, that has a V-shaped cut-out facing upwards. Upper and lower displacer elements 134a, 134b of second displacer unit 134 are formed analogously. By advancing second displacer elements 132b, 134b towards first displacer elements 132a, 134a, tubular netting N extending in the filling direction F between the displacer elements 132a, 132b, 134a, 134b can be gathered into the plait-like portion.

[0058] Between upper ends of upper displacer elements 132a, 134a of gathering means 130, first and second dies 124a, 124b of clipping tool assembly 120 are arranged, with their active surfaces, at which closure clips C are deformed while being closed, facing upwardly towards punches 122a, 122b.

[0059] In Fig. 3, dies 124a, 124b are in a retracted position, on the right side of the slots in upper displacer elements 132a, 134a. In this position of dies 124a, 124b, the slot in displacer elements 132a, 134a is accessible from below for tubular netting N to be moved therein by lower displacer elements 132b, 134b, for forming a plait-like portion thereto.

[0060] In Fig. 4, which shows clipping tool assembly 120 of the clipping machine 100 in more detail, dies 124a, 124b are arranged in a closing position, shifted thereto by a die drive 126 (Fig. 3), which may be a piston / cylinder drive. In this position, dies 124a, 124b cover the lower portion of the slot in upper displacer elements 132a, 134a, to prevent plait-like portion from leaving said slot, and for allowing punches 122a, 122b to apply closure clips C to plait-like portion, and to close said closure clips C.

[0061] Clipping tool assembly 120 of clipping machine 100 further comprises guide plates 127, 128, which are arranged parallel to each other, with approximately vertically guide slots 127a, 128a (not visible in Fig. 4), in which punches 122a, 122b are linearly guided for pushing a closure clip C towards dies 124a, 124b, fed to punches 122a, 122b by magazine bars MB1, MB2 (cf. Fig. 1). The guide slots 127, 128a are therefore also referred to as tool guides, guide portions or the like.

[0062] Fig. 5 is a perspective view to the punch side removal unit 150 of the packaging machine 100. Punch side removal unit 150 has an at least approximately elongate main body 151 with a first end 151a, a second end 151b and a securing portion 152. Main body 151 has an at least approximately rectangular cross section. The dimensions of the main body 151 are adapted to the dimensions of the guide slot 127a such that the punch side removal unit 150 is secured to the clipping tool assembly 120 via a friction fit. The main body 151 therefore forms an attachment portion 152 of the punch side removal unit 150. Securing portion 152 protrudes from one side surface of the main body 151, extends from first end 151a towards second end 151b, and terminates in a semi-circular end portion. Securing portion 152 has a width that is slightly larger than the width of main body 151, such that securing portion 152 extends beyond the lateral surfaces of main body 151, and forms protruding edges 153. The protruding edges 153 of the securing portion 152 prevent the punch side removal unit 150 from falling into the guide slot 127a of punch 122a. Punch side removal unit 150 further includes a connection section 154 extending from securing portion 152 in the region of first end 151a and facing way from main body 151. A holding face 157 of the main body 151 secures the punch side removal unit 150 in the guide slot 127a as it extends behind and abuts the upper displacer element 132a.

[0063] As shown in Fig. 6, which is a is cross sectional view to the punch side removal unit 150, a fluid passage 155 is arranged inside punch side removal unit 150, which extends from connection section 154 at first end 151a of main body 151 to second end 151b of main body 151. Fluid passage 155 terminates at the second end 151b of main body 151 in a nozzle 156. In connection section 154, a connection element 154a is arranged, like an internal thread, for enabling a fluid connection between fluid passage 155 and an external pressurized fluid source. As can be seen in Fig. 6, nozzle 156 is preferably integrally formed with passage 155, and includes a nozzle passage directed towards the closing region CR (downwards with respect to Fig. 6) and in feeding direction F, to enable pressurized fluid to be ejected out in a blowing direction B towards closing region CR.

[0064] As it can be seen in Figs. 3 and 4 a vertical cut-out 132c is provided above the slot in upper displacer element 132a of first displacer unit 132. The length and width of the cut-out corresponds with the length and width of securing portion 152 of punch side removal unit 150. Vertical cut-out 132c extends downwards from the upper edge of upper displacer element 132a, and terminates in a semi-circular end that matches with the semi-circular end of securing portion 152 of punch side removal unit 150. Furthermore, as it can be seen in Fig. 4 and as described above, main body 151 of punch side removal unit 150 has a width that matches with the width of at least a portion of guide slot 127a in guide plate 127, with protruding edges 153 abutting against guide plate 127, for securing punch side removal unit 150 in its horizontal position. Accordingly, punch side removal unit 150 is form-fitted in cut-out 132c as well as guide slot 127a. The securing portion 152 also forms an attachment portion. In other embodiments, the punch side removal unit 150 can be form-fitted only to a cut-out 132c in the displacer element 132a, only to guide slot 127a for punch 122a, to another component or portion of the packaging machine 1 or not form-fitted to any other component at all.

[0065] As can be seen in Fig. 2, the lower end of magazine bar MB1 is arranged close to the upper surface of punch side removal unit 150, which is thereby secured in its vertical position at clipping tool assembly 120. Even if not shown, it is further possible, that punch side removal unit 150 is additionally secured in its position by a securing element, like a screw, by means of which punch side removal unit 150 may be fixed to clipping tool assembly 120, like to guide plate 127.

[0066] As further shown in Fig. 4, in a further embodiment of clipping machine 100, a die side removal unit 160 may be provided. In Fig. 4, only a coupling element 161 is visible for coupling die side removal unit 160 to a pressurized fluid source. In some embodiments, the die side removal unit 160 may include one fluid passage arranged in each of dies 124a, 124b, which terminate in the active surfaces of dies 124a, 124b, and which may be commonly coupled to a pressurized fluid source by coupling element 161, such that a fluid stream, like an air stream, may be guided through said passages in dies 124a, 124b to closing region CR, for removing a closure clip C or remains thereof stuck in the dies 124a, 124b and preferably to the closing region CR. However, it may be sufficient that die side removal unit 160 is provided only downstream at die 124a.

[0067] Punch side removal unit 150 and die side removal unit 160 are couple to and controlled by control unit CU of clipping machine 100. For example, control unit CU can be adapted to control valves of the removal units 150, 160, in particular solenoid valves.

[0068] In operation, goods G to be filled into a tubular netting N are fed through chute 10 of clipping machine 1 into tubular netting N, which is stored on chute 10 and closed at its end facing in feeding direction F by a closure clip C. Thereby, tubular netting N is pulled off from chute 10. After a predetermined amount or number of goods G is fed into tubular netting N, gathering means 30 are activated for gathering the portion of tubular netting provided in closing region CF, for forming a plait-like portion P thereto. Clipping tool assembly 120 applies one or two closure clips C to plait-like portion P, and closes said closure clips C. In the case that two closure clips are applied to plait-like portion P, the downstream closure clip C closes the rear end of the just filled portion of tubular netting N, and the upstream closure clip C closes the front end of tubular netting N next to be filled. During the closing operation, at least punches 22 of clipping tool assembly 20 move from the punch side of closing region CR towards plait-like portion P, for applying and closing closure clips C.

[0069] The gathering and closing operation will now be described in detail in conjunction with clipping machine 100 according to Figs 2 to 6.

[0070] After a predetermined amount or number of goods G have been fed into tubular netting N, gathering means 130 are activated. Lower displacer elements 132b, 134b are moved upwards, such that tubular netting N is gathered by the V-shaped cut-outs in displacer elements 132a, 132b, 134a, 134b, in pushed into the slot in upper displacer elements 132a, 134a, whereby a plait-like portion P is formed thereto. During the gathering operation, dies 124a, 124b are in the retracted position shown in Fig. 3, such that plait-like portion P may pass dies 124a, 124b. When plait-like portion P has arrived at the upper end of said slot in upper displacer elements 132a, 134a, dies 124a, 124b are moved by die drive 126 into the closing position shown in Fig. 4, in which the active surfaces of dies 124a, 124b are arranged below plait-like portion P.

[0071] Thereafter, punch drive 129 is activated, such that punches 122a, 122b move from the punch side of closing region R towards plait-like portion P. Punches 122a, 122b are guided along the guide slots in guide plates 127, 128, and each punch 122a, 122b applies a closure clip C, provided by magazine bars MB1, MB2, to plait-like portion P and closes said closure clip C. The closure clips C are deformed between punches 122a, 122b and dies 124a, 124b of clipping tool assembly 120 and thereby closed around the plait-like portion P. For separating the just filled tubular netting N from the remaining tubular netting stored on chute 10, a cutting device may be provided, that cuts tubular netting between the two closure clips C just applied to plait-lie portion P.

[0072] After the closing operation has been finished and the just filled tubular netting has been separated and discharged from clipping machine 100, punches 122a, 122a are moved towards the punch side of closing region CR, dies 124a, 124b are moved back into the retracted position, and lower displacer elements 132a, 134b of gathering means 130 are moved downwards away from upper displacer elements 132a, 134a and the next filling operation may be started.

[0073] Closure clips C are usually made of metal, like aluminium. However for closing tubular nettings, which are made of plastic, the closure clips C are often also made of plastic, for preventing the tubular netting from being damaged, e.g. by sharp edges of metal clips.

[0074] When made from plastic, tubular netting N and closure clips C, have a lower weight than closure clips of metal. Thus, it may occur that the front end of tubular netting N to be filled next, when closed by a closure clip C, does not leave closing region CR, e.g. by gravity, or said closure clip may get stuck in a portion of the clipping tool assembly 120, in particular in one of closing tools 122a, 124a of clipping tool assembly 120 and / or in a portion of the gathering means 130. On the other hand, in the case that a closure clip C breaks during the closing operation, remains thereof may get stuck in the guide grooves in guide plates 127, 128 or in dies 124a, 124b. This may lead to production losses, or downtimes.

[0075] In order to securely remove stuck closure clips C or stuck remains of closure clips C from a portion of the clipping tool assembly 120 and / or the gathering means 130, punch side removal unit 150 is activated by control unit CU, at least after the closing operation has been terminated, and during the movement punches 122a, 122b and dies 124a, 124b into their initial positions.

[0076] Upon operation of punch side removal unit 150, a stream of fluid, preferably a jet of air, is guided towards closing region CR, by which stuck closure clips C or stuck remains of closure clips C are blown out of portions of the clipping tool assembly 120 and / or the gathering means 130, in particular out of guide slot 127a of first punch 122a and / or upper displacer element 132a of first displacer unit 132.

[0077] Die side removal unit 160, controlled by control unit CU, may be operated together with punch side removal unit.

[0078] The operation time of punch side removal unit 150, and die side removal unit 160, respectively, may be varied, e.g. by an operator which adjusts the operation time via control unit CU. Alternatively, the operation time of punch side removal unit 150 and / or die side removal unit 160 may be set, e.g. dependent on the kind of products to be produced or the material used, like the packaging material or the clips.

[0079] For preventing a closure clip C or remains thereof to be blown by punch side removal unit 150 or by die side removal unit 160 towards dies 124a, 124b or punches 122a, 122b, respectively, the pressure of the fluid guided through punch side removal unit 150 and die side removal unit 160 is preferably at least approximately equal, apart from minor deviations in pressure, caused by different flow resistances of selected components, like fluid pipes or coupling fittings. In a simple case, punch side removal unit 150 and die side removal unit 160 are coupled to the same pressurized fluid source. Alternatively, e.g. dependent on the specific design of clipping machine 100, fluid of different pressure may be provided to punch side removal unit 150 and die side removal unit 160, e.g. pressurized fluid from different sources, or by using pressure control valves.

[0080] As explained in conjunction with Fig. 6, nozzle 156 may integrally formed with fluid passage 155 in punch side removal unit 150. However, nozzle 156 may also be provided as a separate element that is attached to second end 151b of main body 150 of punch side removal unit 150. A separate nozzle may easy be exchanged by another nozzle, e.g. for adapting punch side removal unit to the respective production process or the products to be reduced. Preferably, a nozzle axis perpendicular to a nozzle opening is angled with respect to a main longitudinal axis of the punch side removal unit 150 and / or with respect to a punch axis along which the first punch 122a is reversibly moved to and from the closing region CR.

Claims

1. A packaging machine (100) for filling goods, like fruit, in a feeding direction into a tubular packaging (N), like a tubular netting, the packaging machine (100) comprising: gathering means (130) for forming a plait-like portion (P) of the tubular packaging (N); and a clipping tool assembly (120) including at least one punch (122a) and at least one die (124a), for applying at least one closure means (C), like a closure clip, to the plait-like portion (P) and closing said closure means (C), in a closing region (CR) of the clipping tool assembly (120), wherein the punch (122a) is reversibly movable towards the die (124a) from a punch side of the closing region (CR); wherein the packaging machine (100) further comprises at least one removal unit (150) for removing a closure means (C) or remains thereof stuck in a portion of the clipping tool assembly (120) and / or the gathering means (130); wherein the removal unit (150) is a punch side removal unit (150), that is arranged on the punch side of the closing region (CR), and configured to act towards the closing region (CR).

2. The packaging machine (100) according to claim 1, wherein the punch side removal unit (150) is a pneumatically acting unit.

3. The packaging machine according to claim 2, wherein the punch side removal unit (150) has an at least approximately elongate main body (151) with a first end (151a) and a second end (151b), and a fluid passage (155) extending from the first end (154a) towards the second end (151b), the fluid passage (155) terminating at the second end (151b) in a nozzle (156) directed towards the closing region (CR).

4. The packaging machine (100) according to claims 2 or 3, wherein the main body (151) includes an attachment portion, for attaching the removal unit (150) to the packaging machine (100).

5. The packaging machine (100) according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the clipping tool assembly (120) includes a second punch (122b) for applying and closing a second closure means (C), wherein the punch side removal unit (150) is arranged upstream of the first punch (122a) when viewed in the feeding direction (F).

6. The packaging machine (100) according to any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the packaging machine (100) comprises at least one die side removal unit (160) acting towards the closing area (CR), for removing a closure means (C) or remains thereof from the closing region (CR).

7. The packaging machine (100) according to claim 6, wherein the at least one die side removal unit (160) is a pneumatically acting removal unit.

8. The packaging machine (100) according to claims 1 to 7, wherein the at least one punch side removal unit (150) and the at least one die side removal unit (160) are provided with pressurized air having at least approximately identical pressure.

9. The packaging machine (100) according to any of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a control unit (CU) configured to control operation of the at least one punch side removal unit (150) and the at least one die side removal unit (160), wherein the control unit (CU) is preferably configured to operate the punch side removal unit (150) and the die side removal unit (160) at least partially simultaneously.

10. A method for controlling a packaging machine (100) for filling goods (G), like fruit, in a feeding direction (F) into a tubular packaging (N), like a tubular netting, the packaging machine (100) comprising gathering means (130) for forming a plait-like portion (P) to the tubular packaging (N), a clipping tool assembly (120) including a punch (122a) and a die (124a), for applying at least one closure means (C), like a closure clip, to the plait-like portion (P), and closing said closure means (C), in a closing region (CR) of the clipping tool assembly (120), and at least one removal unit (150) for removing a closure means (C) or remains thereof stuck in a portion of the clipping tool assembly (120) and / or the gathering means (130) and / or for preventing a closure means (C) or remains thereof from getting stuck in a portion of the clipping tool assembly (120) and / or the gathering means (130), wherein the removal unit (150) is arranged on the punch side of the closing region (CR) and acts towards the closing region (CR), the method comprises the steps of: - gathering the filled tubular packaging (N) by the gathering means (130), for forming a plait-like portion (P) thereto, - applying a closure means (C), like a closure clip, by the closing tool assembly (120) to said plait-like portion (P) and closing said closure means (C), by reversibly moving the punch (122a) towards the die (124a) from the punch side of the closing region (CR); and - operating the punch side removal unit (150), wherein the punch side removal unit (150) acts towards the closing region (CR) from a punch side of the closing region (CR) for removing a closure means (C) or remains thereof stuck in a portion of the clipping tool assembly (120) and / or the gathering means (130), and / or for preventing a closure means (C) or remains thereof from getting stuck in a portion of the clipping tool assembly (120) and / or the gathering means (130).

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein the step of operating the punch side removal unit (150) comprises the step of directing pressurized air through a nozzle (156) of the punch side removal unit (150) towards the closing region (CR).

12. The method according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the punch side removal unit (150) is operated at least during a reverse movement of the punch (122a) away from the die (124a).

13. The method according to any of claims 10 to 12, wherein the packaging machine (100) further comprises at least one die side removal unit (160) acting towards the closing region (CR) from the die side, for removing a closure means (C) or remains thereof stuck in a portion of the clipping tool assembly (120) and / or the gathering means (130), and wherein the method further comprises the step of operating the at least one die side removal unit (160) for acting towards the closing region (CR), for removing a closure means (C) or remains thereof stuck in a portion of the clipping tool assembly (120) and / or the gathering means (130).

14. The method according to any of claims 10 to 13, wherein the packaging machine (100) further comprises a control unit (CU), the control unit (CU) controls the operation of the punch side removal unit (150) and / or the at least one die side removal unit (160), wherein the control unit (CU) preferably controls the punch side removal unit (150) and the die side removal unit (160) such that the punch side removal unit (150) and the die side removal unit (160) operate at least partially simultaneously.

15. A punch side removal unit (150) for use in a packaging machine (100) according to any of claims 1 to 9, for removing a closure means (C) or remains thereof stuck in a portion of a clipping tool assembly and / or gathering means of the packaging machine (100).

Images