Device and method for shrinking a film onto at least one article

Abstract

The invention relates, inter alia, to a device (10) for shrinking a film (F) onto at least one article (A). The device (10) has a conveying device (12) for conveying the at least one article (A) and the film (F). The device (10) further has an upper fluid supply device (18) which is arranged above the conveying device (12) for supplying a fluid to the upper surface of the article for shrinking the film (F) onto the at least one article (A). The upper fluid supply device (18) has a collection chamber (24) which has an inlet opening (26) for receiving the fluid and several lower outlet openings (30) for discharging the fluid in a direction towards the upper surface of the article.The upper fluid supply device (18) further comprises a distribution element (36) which is arranged in the collection chamber (24) for distributing the fluid received via the inlet opening (26) through the collection chamber (24) to the several lower outlet openings (30).

Description

Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a device, preferably a shrink tunnel, for shrinking a film onto at least one article. The invention further relates to a method for shrinking a film onto at least one article. Technical background

[0002] In devices known from the prior art for shrinking a film onto articles, the film-covered articles, such as PET bottles, are transported along a conveyor line through a so-called shrink tunnel. During their transport through the shrink tunnel, the film is heated from below and from the sides by applying hot air or similar heat, thereby shrinking it onto the respective articles.

[0003] DE 10 2022 114 548 A1 relates to a shrinking device and a method for shrinking a thermoplastic packaging material onto at least one article. The shrinking device comprises a shrink chamber with at least one transport section for the article, wherein the article is conveyed in one direction. The shrink chamber is laterally bounded by outer chamber walls, each of which has an outlet surface facing the shrink chamber with a plurality of outlet openings through which shrinking agent flows laterally into the shrink chamber.The shrinking device comprises at least one receiving device for a further shaft wall, formed above the transport path, between the two outer shaft walls, wherein in a first operating mode of the shrinking device an upper heat shaft wall is arranged on the at least one receiving device, which upper heat shaft wall comprises a bottom with outflow openings, through which outflow openings shrinking agent with a downward movement component flows into the shrinking chamber.

[0004] A disadvantage of this known technique is that the film on the top side may not shrink sufficiently, resulting in inadequate container stability. These problems occur more frequently as the containers become wider, since the supplied process air no longer reaches the center of the container and is not distributed homogeneously.

[0005] The invention is based on the objective of developing an improved technique for shrinking a film onto at least one article. Preferably, the technique should also be applicable to very broad product groups and enable uniform shrinking of the film. Summary of the invention

[0006] The problem is solved by the features of the independent claims. Advantageous further developments are specified in the dependent claims and the description.

[0007] One aspect concerns a device, preferably a shrink tunnel, for shrinking a film onto at least one article. The device includes a conveying unit for conveying the at least one article wrapped in the film and the film itself. The device further includes an upper fluid supply unit, which is arranged above the conveying unit for supplying a (e.g., shrinking) fluid (e.g., hot air, gas, or steam) to the upper surface of the article for shrinking the film onto the at least one article. The upper fluid supply unit has a collection chamber with an inlet opening, preferably an upper one, for receiving the fluid and several lower outlet openings for releasing the fluid in a direction (e.g., vertically) towards the upper surface of the article. The upper fluid supply unit further includes a (e.g.,passive) distribution element, which is arranged in the collection chamber to distribute the fluid received via the inlet opening through the collection chamber to the several lower outlet openings.

[0008] Advantageously, the distribution element within the collection chamber allows the fluid, which only flows into the chamber section by section through the inlet opening, to be distributed more effectively within the chamber. Preferably, the distribution element achieves a better, and ideally as homogeneous as possible, distribution of the fluid to the multiple outlet openings. The fluid can then advantageously flow from the outlet openings across the entire surface of the underside, particularly in the outer areas, of the collection chamber, thus reaching the top surface of the product as completely as possible, even when very large and wide product groups are being processed. This can advantageously significantly improve the shrinkage result on the product surface. As a result, the stability of the packaging, especially with very large and wide product groups, can be considerably improved.On the other hand, energy consumption can be advantageously reduced, since the improved fluid flow eliminates the need to enhance shrinkage by increasing the fluid temperature. Furthermore, the more targeted application of the fluid to the top surface of the article allows for a general reduction in temperature.

[0009] Preferably, the conveying device can extend through the shrink tunnel, e.g. between an article inlet opening of the shrink tunnel and an article outlet opening of the shrink tunnel or beyond.

[0010] In one embodiment, at least one of the following is fulfilled: The distribution element is arranged, preferably directly, below the inlet opening (e.g. over the entire length and / or entire width of the inlet opening), preferably spaced apart from the inlet opening; the distribution element is arranged above the multiple lower outlet openings, preferably spaced apart from the multiple lower outlet openings; and the distribution element extends substantially along the entire length of the collection chamber.

[0011] Advantageously, this arrangement allows for the most homogeneous distribution of the fluid possible using the distribution element.

[0012] In another embodiment, at least one of the following is fulfilled: The distribution element is a, preferably plate-shaped, impact body, preferably a baffle plate; the distribution element is designed to deflect the fluid received via the inlet opening to flow in a longitudinal direction of the collecting chamber and / or to flow in a transverse direction of the collecting chamber; and the distribution element is designed to distribute the fluid received via the inlet opening essentially homogeneously over an entire width of the collecting chamber.

[0013] Advantageously, this method allows for a structurally simple implementation of the distribution element, which is nevertheless particularly suitable for homogeneous fluid distribution. In particular, by designing it as an impactor, it can be advantageously achieved that the incoming air strikes the impactor and can be distributed by it in the desired directions, preferably to cover the entire width of the collection chamber.

[0014] It is possible that the inlet opening extends over a substantially entire length of the collection chamber, preferably centrally with respect to a transverse axis of the collection chamber.

[0015] In one embodiment, the distribution element is tunnel-shaped, hat-shaped, or hood-shaped, preferably with an inverted U-shaped cross-section, an inverted V-shaped cross-section, an arcuate cross-section, or a convexly curved cross-section. Advantageously, the distribution element can effectively ensure the desired distribution and fluid flow within the collection chamber in this way.

[0016] In another embodiment, the distribution element has multiple passages for the fluid. Advantageously, this allows for the creation of specifically limited flow paths for the fluid, in order to further improve the distribution of the fluid.

[0017] In one version, at least one of the following is fulfilled: The multiple passages are formed as spaced-apart, preferably elongated, recesses on a lower edge of the distribution element; the multiple passages form a rake shape or comb shape on a lower edge of the distribution element; and the multiple passages extend along a respective axis between opposite (e.g., plate) sides of the distribution element, wherein the axes are inclined, preferably transversely, to a vertical axis (and e.g., transversely to a transport direction of the conveying device).

[0018] Advantageously, this allows for the most unimpeded flow of fluid possible in a region of the collection chamber near the outlet openings. Preferably, the fluid can thus also reach those areas that were specifically shielded upstream by the distribution element.

[0019] In another embodiment, the collection chamber is divided by the distribution element into an outer and an inner collection chamber. Preferably, the multiple passages can connect the inner and outer collection chambers. For example, several of the lower outlet openings can directly adjoin the inner collection chamber. Alternatively or additionally, several other lower outlet openings can directly adjoin the outer collection chamber. Advantageously, this allows for a particularly good and homogeneous distribution of the fluid. Preferably, after flowing in, the fluid can first be distributed by the distribution element in the outer collection chamber to the outermost areas of the collection chamber. From there, a portion of the fluid can then flow through the passages of the distribution element into the inner collection chamber before flowing out.Ultimately, a homogeneous distribution of the fluid across all outlet openings is advantageous.

[0020] In another embodiment, the collecting chamber has an outlet element, preferably plate-shaped, and particularly preferably a perforated plate, and the outlet element has several lower outlet openings. Advantageously, the outlet element can be replaced at any time without significant effort. Thus, if required, an outlet element with a modified outlet opening design (e.g., hole shape, elongated hole shape, deep-drawn nozzle shape, etc.), a different hole pattern arrangement, a different size of the outlet openings, etc., can be used.

[0021] In one embodiment, at least one of the following is fulfilled: The outlet element is detachably attached, preferably to a hood-shaped base body of the collection chamber (e.g., at the front end of the hood-shaped base body and / or along the side of the hood-shaped base body); the outlet element is slipped over and / or hooked onto a lower end section of a hood-shaped base body of the collection chamber from below; the outlet element delimits the collection chamber, preferably its inner and outer collection space, from below; the outlet element carries the distribution element; the distribution element is attached to the outlet element (e.g., welded on); and the outlet element and the distribution element are designed as a single, replaceable modular component.

[0022] In this way, the advantages already explained that are associated with the outlet element (interchangeability depending on requirements, flexibility) can be achieved particularly effectively.

[0023] In another embodiment, the upper fluid supply unit is mounted so that it can be moved transversely to one of the conveying directions. This advantageously increases flexibility, allowing, for example, the handling of a wide variety of articles and article sizes. It also enables, for instance, the creation of separately switchable heating zones within the device.

[0024] In one embodiment, the device further comprises a lateral fluid supply device, preferably a shaft wall, which is located laterally next to an article conveyor track of the conveying device.

[0025] The device supplies a (e.g., shrink) fluid (e.g., hot air, gas, or steam) to a longitudinal or transverse side of the at least one article for shrinking the film onto the article. Optionally, the device can further include an additional lateral fluid supply device, preferably another chute wall, arranged opposite the lateral fluid supply device with respect to the article conveyor track. This additional fluid supply device further improves the shrinking of the film.

[0026] Preferably, the upper fluid supply device can be arranged between the lateral fluid supply device and the further lateral fluid supply device and / or above the article track.

[0027] It is also possible that the device has a lower fluid supply device which is arranged in or under the conveying device for supplying a (e.g. shrink) fluid (e.g. hot air, gas or steam) to a bottom side of the at least one article.

[0028] In a further embodiment, the device also has several connection base bodies, which are essentially identical in construction and arranged above the conveying device, each having a fluid channel with an outlet, preferably a lower one. Preferably, the upper fluid supply device can be supported by one of the several connection base bodies and connected to the respective outlet for receiving the fluid from the respective fluid channel. The lateral fluid supply device can preferably be supported by another of the several connection base bodies and connected to the respective outlet for receiving the fluid from the respective fluid channel. The further lateral fluid supply device can be supported by a further of the several connection base bodies and connected to the respective outlet for receiving the fluid from the respective fluid channel.Preferably, the multiple connecting base bodies are mounted so that they can be moved transversely to one transport direction of the conveyor system. This advantageously allows for the creation of a particularly flexible modular system and a reduction in the number of parts required.

[0029] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a container handling system (e.g., for tempering, manufacturing, cleaning, coating, testing, filling, closing, pasteurizing, decorating, labeling, printing, marking, laser marking, and / or packaging containers for liquid or pasty media, preferably beverages, liquid food products, or products from the pharmaceutical or healthcare industries). The container handling system may include the device as disclosed herein. The container handling system may, for example, be a beverage filling plant.

[0030] For example, the containers can be designed as bottles, cans, canisters, cartons, vials, tubes, etc.

[0031] Another aspect relates to a method for shrinking a film onto at least one article, preferably by means of a device as disclosed herein. The method comprises: conveying the at least one article and the film (which, for example, at least partially encloses the at least one article) by means of a conveying device; and supplying a (e.g., shrinking) fluid (e.g., hot air, gas, or steam) to an upper surface of the conveyed at least one article by means of an upper fluid supply device arranged above the at least one article. The supply comprises: Fluid flows in through an inlet opening into a collection chamber of the upper fluid supply device; the fluid is distributed in the collection chamber by means of a (e.g., passive) distribution element arranged in the collection chamber; and the fluid distributed in the collection chamber flows out of the collection chamber through lower outlet openings of the collection chamber in a (e.g., vertical) direction towards the top of the article.

[0032] The process further involves: shrinking the film onto the at least one conveyed item by means of the supplied fluid.

[0033] Advantageously, the same advantages can be achieved with this method as have already been described with reference to the apparatus. The same applies to the preferred embodiments of the method explained below.

[0034] In one embodiment, at least one of the following is fulfilled: The incoming fluid directly impacts the distribution element, preferably from above; during distribution, the fluid flows partially through several passages of the distribution element, preferably from an outer collecting space of the collecting chamber to an inner collecting space of the collecting chamber; during distribution, the fluid is deflected by the distribution element to flow in a longitudinal direction of the collecting chamber and / or to flow in a transverse direction of the collecting chamber; during distribution, the fluid is distributed by the distribution element over a substantially entire width of the collecting chamber; and when flowing out of the collecting chamber, the fluid exits through the lower outlet openings from an outer and inner collecting space of the collecting chamber, into which the distribution element divides the collecting chamber.

[0035] In a further embodiment, the method also includes at least one of: (e.g., manual, robot-assisted, or automatic) displacement of the upper fluid supply device in a direction transverse to a transport direction of the conveying device to adjust a position of the upper fluid supply device; and lateral supply of a (e.g., shrink) fluid (e.g., hot air, gas, or steam) to the at least one article by means of two lateral fluid supply devices arranged opposite each other with respect to the at least one article, preferably shaft walls.

[0036] The previously described preferred embodiments and features of the invention can be combined with one another in any way.

[0037] It is understood that all features disclosed herein with reference to the apparatus are also disclosed and claimable in combination with the method, individually or in any combination. The same applies conversely to all features mentioned herein with reference to the method. Brief description of the characters

[0038] Further details and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. These show: Figure 1 is a schematic front view of a device for shrinking a film onto at least one article according to an exemplary embodiment; Figure 2 is a perspective view of part of a collecting chamber of an exemplary device; Figure 3 is a perspective view of a distribution element and an outlet element of the exemplary device; Figure 4 is a perspective sectional view of an upper fluid supply device of the exemplary device; Figure 5 is a schematic view of variants of the fluid supply device; Figure 6 is a schematic view of variants of the distribution element; and Figure 7 is a schematic view of variants of the outlet element.

[0039] The embodiments shown in the figures are at least partially identical, so that similar or identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals and, to avoid repetition, reference is also made to the description of the other embodiments or figures for their explanation. Detailed description of exemplary embodiments

[0040] The Figure 1 Figure 10 shows a device for shrinking a film F onto at least one article A. Preferably, the device 10 can be designed as a so-called shrink tunnel. Preferably, the film F can be a thermoplastic film. The film F can be shrunk onto any number of articles A. The at least one article A is preferably a group of articles or a package, e.g., consisting of several containers, such as bottles.

[0041] Preferably, the device 10 can be included in a container handling system. For example, a packaging device for packaging the articles A, e.g., by applying the film F to the articles A, can be arranged upstream of the device 10 in the container. It is also possible that a labeling device for labeling the articles A is arranged upstream of the packaging device or the device 10 in the container. It is also possible that a palletizing device for palletizing the articles A is arranged downstream of the device 10 in the container.

[0042] The device 10 is described below with reference to the Figures 1 to 4 Described using an example.

[0043] The device 10 comprises a conveying device 12 and an upper fluid supply device 18. Preferably, the device 10 also comprises, for example, lateral fluid supply devices 14, 16 and / or at least one connection base body 20, 22.

[0044] The conveying device 12 can convey the articles A and the film(s) F through the device 10. During conveying through the device 10, the film F can be shrunk onto the articles A. Preferably, the conveying device 12 can be a linear conveying device. For example, the conveying device 12 can convey the articles A and the film(s) F in a transport direction T.

[0045] The conveying device 12 can preferably support the articles A at ground level during conveying. For example, the conveying device 12 can have a circulating conveying element, such as a conveyor belt or mat chain, for conveying the articles A and the film(s) F.

[0046] It is possible that a lower fluid supply device is arranged below or within the conveying device 12 (not in Figure 1(as shown). The lower fluid supply device can supply a fluid, such as hot air, gas, or steam, from below to the underside of the articles A. Preferably, the conveying device 12 can be configured to allow the fluid to pass through from the lower fluid supply device. For example, the conveying device 12 can have a mat chain or similar as a circulating conveying element.

[0047] The lateral fluid supply devices 14 and 16 can be arranged opposite each other. The articles A can be transported by the conveying device 12 between the lateral fluid supply devices 14 and 16.

[0048] For example, the lateral fluid supply device 14 can be arranged laterally next to an article conveyor track of the conveyor device 12 for supplying a fluid, such as hot air, gas, or steam, to a longitudinal or transverse side of the articles A. The further lateral fluid supply device 16 can be arranged opposite the lateral fluid supply device 14 with respect to the article conveyor track for supplying a fluid, such as hot air, gas, or steam, to another longitudinal or transverse side of the articles A.

[0049] The fluid supply devices 14 and 16 can preferably be designed as hollow bodies with lateral outlet openings for the fluid. The hollow body can be essentially plate-shaped. The hollow body can preferably be oriented in a vertical plane. Preferably, the fluid supply devices 14 and 16 can be designed as so-called shaft walls.

[0050] The lateral outlet openings of the two fluid supply devices 14 and 16 can be opposite each other. The lateral outlet openings can preferably direct the outflowing fluid onto the longitudinal or transverse sides of the articles A.

[0051] The upper fluid supply device 18 is arranged above the conveying device 12. The upper fluid supply device 18 directs a fluid, such as hot air, gas, or steam, onto the upper surface of the articles A for shrinking the film F onto the articles A. The upper fluid supply device 18 can also be referred to as an upper fluid spraying device.

[0052] Preferably, the upper fluid supply device 18 can be mounted so as to be displaceable transversely to the transport direction T of the conveying device 12. For example, the upper fluid supply device 18 can be moved manually, robotically, or automatically by means of an actuator to adjust its position.

[0053] For example, the connection base body 20 can support the upper fluid supply device 18. Preferably, the upper fluid supply device 18 can be detachably attached to the connection base body 20, for example at the lower outlet area of ​​the connection base body 20 and / or by means of screw connections.

[0054] The connecting base body 20 is preferably arranged above the conveying device 12. The connecting base body 20 can preferably be displaceable and fixed transversely to the transport direction T, e.g., on a frame, a rack, or a housing of the device 10. Preferably, the connecting base body 20 can have an internal fluid channel and an outlet, preferably a lower one. The fluid supply device 18 can be connected to the outlet of the connecting base body 20 to receive fluid from the internal fluid channel of the connecting base body 20.

[0055] The device 10 particularly preferably includes the additional connection base bodies 22. The connection base bodies 22 are preferably arranged next to the connection base body 20 above the conveying device 12. Preferably, the connection base bodies 22 are essentially identical in construction to the connection base body 20.

[0056] For example, the connection base bodies 22 can also be displaceable and fixed transversely to the transport direction T. Each connection base body 22 can be connected to one of the lateral fluid supply devices 14, 16 for supplying the fluid to the respective fluid supply device 14, 16 and preferably for supporting the respective fluid supply device 14, 16. For example, the lateral fluid supply device 14 can be detachably attached to one of the connection base bodies 22, for example, at the lower outlet area of ​​the connection base body 22 and / or by means of screw connections. For example, the lateral fluid supply device 16 can be detachably attached to another of the connection base bodies 22, for example, at the lower outlet area of ​​the other connection base body 22 and / or by means of screw connections.

[0057] The fluid supply device 14, 16 and / or 18 can receive the fluid, for example, from a connected heating device (not shown in the figures), e.g., via the connection base body(s) 20, 22. The heating device can be, for example, an electric heating device or a gas combustion heating device, e.g., for heating process air to hot air.

[0058] The upper fluid supply device 18 has a collection chamber 24 and a distribution element 36.

[0059] The (fluid) collection chamber 24 has an inlet opening 26 and several lower outlet openings 30. Preferably, the collection chamber 24 also has a base body 28 and / or an outlet element 32.

[0060] The fluid can enter the collection chamber 24 via the inlet opening 26. Preferably, the inlet opening 26 is connected to the outlet of the connecting base body 20, preferably directly. Preferably, the inlet opening 26 is located in an upper region, for example, on a top surface, of the collection chamber 24. Preferably, the inlet opening 26 has an elongated cross-section, for example, in the form of an elongated rectangle.

[0061] It is possible that the inlet opening 26 extends over a substantially entire length of the collection chamber 24, preferably centrally with respect to a transverse axis of the collection chamber 24.

[0062] Preferably, the (chamber) base body 28 of the collecting chamber 24 can have the inlet opening 26. The base body 28 is preferably hood-shaped. The base body 28 can be open at the bottom. Preferably, the base body 28 can be detachably attached to a lower end section of the connecting base body 20, for example by means of screw connections. For example, an upper mounting section of the base body 28 can be slipped over and / or hooked onto the lower end section of the connecting base body 20.

[0063] The fluid can flow downwards from the upper fluid supply device 18 through the lower outlet openings 30 towards the top surface of the articles A. The fluid supplied in this way allows the film F to be shrunk onto the article A.

[0064] The collecting chamber 24 preferably includes the outlet element 32, which in turn has the outlet openings 30. The outlet element 32 is preferably substantially plate-shaped. Particularly preferably, the outlet element 32 is designed as a perforated plate. The outlet element 32 is preferably oriented in a horizontal plane. The outlet element 32 can delimit the collecting chamber 24 from below.

[0065] For example, the outlet element 32 can be detachably attached to the base body 28, preferably by means of screw connections. For example, the outlet element 32 can be detachably attached to the longitudinal outer sides and / or end faces of the base body 28.

[0066] Preferably, the outlet element 32 can be slipped over a lower, e.g., circumferential, end section of the base body 28 from below and / or suspended from it. For example, the outlet element 32 can have at least one collar section 34. The collar section 34 can be arranged, for example, on a longitudinal outer side and / or a transverse outer side of the outlet element 32. The collar section 34 can be oriented, for example, obliquely, preferably transversely, to a plate-shaped main body region of the outlet element 32. Preferably, the collar section can be oriented in a vertical plane. The outlet element 32 can be slipped over the base body 28 via the collar section 34, suspended from it, and detachably fastened to the base body 28.

[0067] The distribution element 36 is arranged in / within the collection chamber 24 (see dashed outline in Figure 1 ).

[0068] For example, the outlet element 32 can support the distribution element 36. The distribution element 36 can, for example, be arranged above the outlet element 32. Preferably, the distribution element 36 can abut a top surface of the outlet element 32.

[0069] Preferably, the distribution element 36 is fixedly or detachably attached to the outlet element 32. For example, the distribution element 36 and the outlet element 32 can be welded together. It is possible, for instance, that lower connecting tabs of the distribution element 36 are inserted into tab openings of the outlet element 32 and welded to them.

[0070] Particularly preferably, the outlet element 32 and the distribution element 36 together form an interchangeable modular component (see e.g. Figure 3). When converting device 10, the module component can simply be replaced to adapt device 10 to other requirements (for example, different container size, different container shape, etc.).

[0071] The distribution element 36 is designed to distribute the fluid received from the collection chamber 24 via the inlet opening 26 through the collection chamber 24 to the multiple outlet openings 30, preferably as homogeneously as possible. The distribution element 36 can deflect the fluid received via the inlet opening 26 to flow longitudinally within the collection chamber 24 and / or transversely within the collection chamber 24. The distribution element 36 can distribute the received fluid substantially homogeneously over the entire width of the collection chamber 24.

[0072] Preferably, the distribution element 36 can be arranged, preferably directly, below and spaced apart from the inlet opening 26. The fluid flowing in through the inlet opening 26 can impinge directly onto the distribution element 36 from above. Preferably, the distribution element 36 can be arranged above and spaced apart from the lower outlet openings 30.

[0073] The distribution element 36 is particularly preferably designed as a, preferably plate-shaped, impact body, e.g. a impact plate.

[0074] The distribution element 36 is preferably designed as an elongated part. For example, the distribution element 36 can extend substantially along the entire length of the collection chamber 24. A longitudinal axis of the distribution element 36 can, for example, be parallel to a longitudinal axis of the collection chamber 24, the base body 28, or the inlet opening 26.

[0075] The distribution element 36 can, for example, be tunnel-shaped, hood-shaped, or hat-shaped. For instance, the distribution element 36 can have an inverted U-shaped cross-section, an inverted V-shaped cross-section, an arc-shaped cross-section, or a convexly curved cross-section along its entire length.

[0076] Preferably, the distribution element 36 can divide the collection chamber 24 into an outer collection chamber S1 and an inner collection chamber S2. The distribution element 36 can separate the inner collection chamber S2 and the outer collection chamber S1 from each other. For example, the outer collection chamber S1 can surround the inner collection chamber S2, e.g., from above and on both longitudinal sides. For example, the inner collection chamber S2 can be arranged below the inlet opening 26. Preferably, the inner collection chamber S2 can be a volume spanned by the distribution element 36 (e.g., cuboid). Several outlet openings 30 can directly adjoin both the inner collection chamber S2 and the outer collection chamber S1.

[0077] Preferably, the distribution element 36 has several passages 38 for the fluid. The passages 38 can connect the inner collection chamber S2 and the outer collection chamber S1. When the fluid is distributed in the collection chamber 24, the fluid can partially flow through the passages 38, preferably from the outer collection chamber S1 to the inner collection chamber S2.

[0078] The passages 38 are preferably arranged in a lower end section of the distribution element 36. For example, the passages 38 are designed as spaced-apart, preferably elongated, recesses on a lower edge of the distribution element 36. For example, the passages 38 can form a rake shape or comb shape on the lower edge of the distribution element 36.

[0079] The passages 38 can extend along a respective axis between opposite sides of the distribution element 36. Preferably, the axes are inclined, preferably transversely, to a vertical axis.

[0080] The in Figure 1 The device 10 shown as an example has only one track for the articles A. It is possible for the device 10 to have several parallel tracks for the articles A. A separate upper fluid supply device 18 can be arranged above each track.

[0081] The Figure 5 shows different shape variants of the collection chamber 24 of the upper fluid supply device 18.

[0082] In addition to different basic shapes of the collection chamber 24, it is also possible for the dimensions of the collection chamber 24 to be adapted to specific requirements, such as different article and container sizes. For example, the width, height, and / or length can be variable.

[0083] It is possible that the collection chamber 24 is designed as an interchangeable module, so that the collection chamber 24 can be easily replaced if requirements change.

[0084] The Figure 6 shows different shape variants of the distribution element 36 of the upper fluid supply device 18.

[0085] Both the shape and the size (width, height and / or length) of the distribution element 36 can be variable.

[0086] It is also possible that the distribution element 36 can be used individually or, for example, in combination with the outlet element 32 (see Figure 3 ) is provided as an interchangeable module, so that the distribution element 36 can be easily replaced together with the outlet element 32 if requirements change.

[0087] The Figure 7 shows different variants of the outlet element 32 of the upper fluid supply device 18.

[0088] For example, the number of holes, the hole arrangement (e.g., holes only in certain areas), the hole size, and the hole shape (e.g., circular or oblong) can be variable. As shown in the example on the right. Figure 7 As shown, it is also possible that the outlet openings 30 of the outlet element 32 are nozzle-shaped.

[0089] For example, different versions of the outlet element 32 can be provided and easily exchanged depending on the requirements.

[0090] The invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Rather, a multitude of variants and modifications are possible, which also make use of the inventive concept and therefore fall within the scope of protection. In particular, the invention also claims protection for the subject matter and the features of the dependent claims independently of the referenced claims. In particular, the individual features of independent claim 1 are each disclosed independently of one another. In addition, the features of the dependent claims are also disclosed independently of all features of independent claim 1 and, for example, independently of the features relating to the presence and / or configuration of the conveying device, the upper fluid supply device, the collection chamber, and / or the distribution element of independent claim 1.All range specifications herein are to be understood as disclosed in such a way as to disclose all values ​​falling within the respective range individually, e.g. also as preferred narrower outer limits of the respective range. Reference symbol list

[0091] 10 Device 12 Conveyor 14 Side fluid supply device 16 Side fluid supply device 18 Upper fluid supply device 20 Connection base body 22 Connection base body 24 Collection chamber 26 Inlet opening 28 Base body 30 Lower outlet openings 32 Outlet element 34 Collar section 36 Distribution element 38 Passage FFolie AArticle S1outer collection area S2inner collection area TTransport direction

Claims

1. Device (10), preferably a shrink tunnel, for shrinking a film (F) onto at least one article (A), wherein the device (10) comprises: a conveying device (12) for conveying the at least one article (A) and the film (F); and an upper fluid supply device (18) arranged above the conveying device (12) for supplying a fluid to an article surface for shrinking the film (F) onto the at least one article (A), wherein the upper fluid supply device (18) comprises: - a collection chamber (24) having an inlet opening (26), preferably an upper one, for receiving the fluid and several lower outlet openings (30) for releasing the fluid in a direction towards the article surface, and - a distribution element (36) arranged in the collection chamber (24) for distributing the fluid received via the inlet opening (26) through the collection chamber (24) to the several lower outlet openings (30).

2. Device (10) according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the following is fulfilled: the distribution element (36) is arranged, preferably directly, below the inlet opening (26), preferably spaced apart from the inlet opening (26); the distribution element (36) is arranged above the multiple lower outlet openings (30), preferably spaced apart from the multiple lower outlet openings (30); and the distribution element (36) extends substantially along the entire length of the collection chamber (24).

3. Device (10) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein at least one of the following is fulfilled: the distribution element (36) is a, preferably plate-shaped, impact body, preferably a baffle plate; the distribution element (36) is configured to deflect the fluid received via the inlet opening (26) to flow in a longitudinal direction of the collection chamber (24) and / or to flow in a transverse direction of the collection chamber (24); and the distribution element (36) is configured to distribute the fluid received via the inlet opening (26) substantially homogeneously over an entire width of the collection chamber (24).

4. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the distribution element (36) is tunnel-shaped, hat-shaped or hood-shaped, preferably with an inverted U-shaped cross-section, an inverted V-shaped cross-section, an arc-shaped cross-section or a convexly curved cross-section.

5. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the distribution element (36) has several passages (38) for the fluid.

6. Device (10) according to claim 5, wherein at least one of the following is fulfilled: the multiple passages (38) are designed as spaced-apart, preferably elongated, recesses on a lower edge of the distribution element (36); the multiple passages (38) form a rake shape or comb shape on a lower edge of the distribution element (36); and the multiple passages (38) extend along a respective axis between opposite sides of the distribution element (36), wherein the axes are inclined, preferably transversely, to a vertical axis.

7. Device (10) according to claim 5 or claim 6, wherein: the collection chamber (24) is divided by the distribution element (36) into an outer collection space (S1) and an inner collection space (S2); and the multiple passages (38) connect the inner collection space (S2) and the outer collection space (S1), wherein preferably: several of the lower outlet openings (30) are directly adjacent to the inner collection space (S2); and several other of the lower outlet openings (30) are directly adjacent to the outer collection space (S1).

8. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the collecting chamber (24) has an outlet element (32), preferably plate-shaped, and the outlet element (32) has the several lower outlet openings (30).

9. Device (10) according to claim 8, wherein at least one of the following is fulfilled: the outlet element (32) is detachably attached, preferably to a hood-shaped base body (28) of the collection chamber (24); the outlet element (32) is slipped over and / or suspended from below a lower end section of a hood-shaped base body (28) of the collection chamber (24); the outlet element (32) delimits the collection chamber (24), preferably its inner and outer collection space (S2, S1), from below; the outlet element (32) carries the distribution element (36); the distribution element (36) is attached to the outlet element (32); and the outlet element (32) and the distribution element (36) are designed as a common, interchangeable modular component.

10. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the upper fluid supply device (18) is slidably mounted transversely to a transport direction (T) of the conveying device (12).

11. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a lateral fluid supply device (14), preferably a shaft wall, which is arranged laterally next to an article conveying track of the conveying device (12) for supplying a fluid to a longitudinal or transverse side of the at least one article (A) for shrinking the film (F) onto the at least one article (A); and a further lateral fluid supply device (16), preferably a further shaft wall, which is arranged opposite the lateral fluid supply device (14) with respect to the article conveying track for supplying a fluid to a further longitudinal or transverse side of the at least one article (A) for shrinking the film (F) onto the at least one article (A).

12. Device (10) according to claim 11, further comprising: several connection base bodies (20, 22) which are substantially identical in construction and arranged above the conveying device (12) and each have a fluid channel with an outlet, preferably a lower one, wherein: the upper fluid supply device (18) is supported by one of the several connection base bodies (20) and is connected to the respective outlet for receiving the fluid from the respective fluid channel; the lateral fluid supply device (14) is supported by another of the several connection base bodies (22) and is connected to the respective outlet for receiving the fluid from the respective fluid channel;and the further lateral fluid supply device (16) is supported by another of the several connection base bodies (22) and is connected to the respective outlet for receiving the fluid from the respective fluid channel, wherein preferably: the several connection base bodies (20, 22) are slidably mounted transversely to a transport direction (T) of the conveying device (12).

13. A method for shrinking a film (F) onto at least one article (A), preferably by means of a device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises: conveying the at least one article (A) and the film (F) by means of a conveying device (12); and supplying a fluid to an article top surface of the at least one conveyed article (A) by means of an upper fluid supply device (18) arranged above the at least one article (A), wherein the supply comprises: - the fluid flowing through an inlet opening (26) into a collection chamber (24) of the upper fluid supply device (18); - distributing the fluid in the collection chamber (24) by means of a distribution element (36) arranged in the collection chamber (24); and - the fluid distributed in the collection chamber (24) flowing out of the collection chamber (24) through lower outlet openings (30) of the collection chamber (24) in a direction towards the article top surface;Shrinking of the film (F) onto the at least one conveyed article (A) by the supplied fluid.; 14. The method of claim 13, wherein at least one of the following is fulfilled: the inflowing fluid directly impinges on the distribution element (36), preferably from above; the inflowing fluid flows partially through several passages (38) of the distribution element (36) during distribution, preferably from an outer collecting space (S1) of the collecting chamber (24) to an inner collecting space (S2) of the collecting chamber (24); during distribution, the fluid is deflected by the distribution element (36) to flow in a longitudinal direction of the collecting chamber (24) and / or to flow in a transverse direction of the collecting chamber (24); during distribution, the fluid is distributed by the distribution element (36) over a substantially entire width of the collecting chamber (24); and the fluid flows out of the collecting chamber (24) through the lower outlet openings (30) from an outer and inner collecting space (S1, S2) of the collecting chamber (24), into which the distribution element (36) divides the collecting chamber (24).

15. Method according to claim 13 or claim 14, wherein the method further comprises at least one of: displacing the upper fluid supply device (18) in a direction transverse to a transport direction of the conveying device (12) to adjust a position of the upper fluid supply device (18); and laterally supplying a fluid to the at least one article (A) by means of two lateral fluid supply devices (14, 16), preferably shaft walls, arranged opposite each other with respect to the at least one article (A).

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