Dosing device for a packaging machine, packaging machine with such a dosing device and method for operating a dosing device

Abstract

The invention relates to a dosing device for a packaging machine, in particular a vertical form-fill-seal machine, with at least one dosing unit (14) comprising at least two weighing scales (16, 18), each comprising at least one, in particular a rectangular, weighing element (20, 22) which is movably, in particular tiltably, mounted. It is proposed that in at least one operating state the weighing elements (20, 22), in particular with respect to the pouring edges (24, 26) of the weighing elements (20, 22), are arranged opposite each other, in particular symmetrically to a vertical plane (28), preferably free of elements arranged between the weighing elements (20, 22).

Description

State of the art

[0001] The invention relates to a dosing device for a packaging machine, with at least one dosing unit, which has at least two weighing scales, each having at least one pouring element which is movable, in particular tiltable, and has at least one pouring edge.

[0002] In known dosing devices, the dispensing elements are arranged in an operational state such that their dispensing edges are essentially aligned on a common line, in particular extending coaxially along a horizontal direction. A common hopper is arranged below the dispensing elements, into which the dispensing elements feed bulk material, such as flour, coffee beans, or the like, for feeding into a filling tube of a packaging machine. Due to the alignment of the dispensing edges of the dispensing elements on a common line, the hopper has a longitudinal extent that essentially corresponds to the extension of the dispensing edges. The side walls of the hopper have a specific minimum angle to the vertical to ensure that the bulk material can be reliably transferred into the filling tube.As a result of the relationship between the large longitudinal extent of the funnel and the adherence to the minimum angle of the side walls to the vertical, a large overall height of the funnel results.

[0003] The object of the invention is, in particular, to provide a generic dosing device, a generic method for operating a dosing device, and a generic packaging machine with improved characteristics with regard to a compact design, ease of operation, maintenance, and dosing unit replacement. This object is achieved according to the invention by the features of claims 1, 2, 7, and 10, respectively, while advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention can be found in the dependent claims. Disclosure of the invention

[0004] The invention relates to a dosing device for a packaging machine, in particular for a vertical form-fill-seal machine, with at least one dosing unit having at least two weighing scales, each having at least one, in particular a rectangular cross-sectional shape, weighing element which is movably, in particular tiltably, mounted.

[0005] It is proposed that in at least one operating state, particularly in the dosing device, the pouring elements are arranged opposite each other with respect to the pouring edges, and in particular free of elements arranged between the pouring elements, and especially in a mirror-symmetrical arrangement with respect to a vertical plane. The inventive design of the dosing device advantageously allows for a compact design. Due to the opposing arrangement of the pouring elements, the hopper of the dosing device can advantageously be designed with a small opening, thus advantageously achieving a low overall hopper height, particularly with consistent minimum angles to the vertical of the hopper's side walls compared to previously known dosing devices, preferably without negatively impacting the production output of the dosing device.

[0006] The dosing device is preferably designed for dosing bulk goods in the form of foodstuffs, such as coffee beans, ground coffee, flour, sugar, muesli, or the like. "Designed" is understood to mean, in particular, specially configured, specially programmed, specially designed, and / or specially equipped. The fact that an object is designed for a specific function is understood to mean, in particular, that the object fulfills and / or performs this specific function in at least one application and / or operating state. Preferably, the dosing device comprises at least one hopper, in particular the one already mentioned, which, viewed along a vertical direction, is arranged below the dosing unit.The dosing unit is preferably designed to feed bulk material into the hopper for feeding into a filling tube of a packaging machine comprising the dosing device in a manner already known to those skilled in the art. Preferably, in at least one operating state of the dosing device, the feeding elements are designed to feed bulk material, in particular a predetermined quantity, into the hopper.

[0007] The bulk material weighing devices preferably have a mode of operation for metering bulk material that is already known to those skilled in the art. Preferably, the dispensing elements, particularly in at least one embodiment of the metering unit, each have an axis of movement, in particular a tilting axis, which runs at least substantially parallel to a horizontal plane. "Substantially parallel" is understood to mean, in particular, an alignment of a direction relative to a reference direction, especially in a plane, wherein the direction has a deviation from the reference direction of, in particular, less than 8°, advantageously less than 5°, and most advantageously less than 2°. The dispensing elements preferably have a rectangular cross-sectional shape, especially when viewed in the horizontal plane. Preferably, the dispensing elements each have at least one dispensing edge, in particular designed as a longitudinal edge.The pouring edge of each pouring element is preferably designed as the longitudinal edge of the respective pouring element, along which the respective pouring element has its maximum longitudinal extent. The pouring elements are preferably arranged opposite each other with respect to their longitudinal edges in at least one operating state, particularly in the dosing device, and especially in a mirror-symmetrical arrangement with respect to the vertical plane, and particularly free of any elements arranged between the pouring elements. Preferably, in the operating state in which the pouring elements are arranged opposite each other, the maximum distance between the pouring edges of the pouring elements along a horizontal direction is less than 25 cm, preferably less than 15 cm, and most preferably less than 5 cm. In at least one possible embodiment of the pouring scales, the pouring elements are preferably designed without any movable closing flaps arranged on the pouring elements.The dispensing elements preferably each define a receiving space in which bulk material to be metered can be arranged, wherein the dispensing elements themselves are movable in order to empty the bulk material, in particular to feed it into the hopper. The dispensing edges of the dispensing elements are preferably edges of the dispensing elements over which the bulk material to be metered can be conveyed out of the dispensing elements, in particular out of the respective receiving space, as a result of a movement, in particular a tilting movement, of the dispensing elements.In at least one further possible embodiment of the weighing scales, it is also conceivable that the receiving chamber of the respective weighing scale, particularly relative to a housing of the respective weighing scale, is fixed, and the pouring elements are designed as closing flaps, each having a pivot axis that runs at least substantially parallel to the horizontal plane. The pouring elements are designed to close the receiving chamber of the respective weighing scale, particularly in the direction of the hopper, and, as a result of a pivoting movement, to open a discharge opening of the receiving chamber facing the hopper. Preferably, in at least one operating state, the weighing scales are arranged symmetrically to the vertical plane, with the pivot axes of the pouring elements and / or the pouring edges of the pouring elements preferably being arranged symmetrically to the vertical plane.Preferably, in a further possible embodiment where the dispensing elements are designed as flaps, the dispensing edges of the dispensing elements come into contact with the bulk material to be metered, at least temporarily, while the bulk material can be conveyed out of the respective receiving space, particularly while the bulk material trickles out of the respective receiving space. Preferably, in a further possible embodiment where the dispensing elements are designed as flaps, the dispensing edges of the dispensing elements come into contact with the bulk material, at least temporarily, as a result of a movement, preferably a tilting movement, of the dispensing elements relative to the receiving space, or the bulk material moves at least temporarily over the dispensing edges out of the receiving space.

[0008] Furthermore, it is proposed that the two weighing scales each have a housing on, and in particular in, the respective weighing element is movably, and in particular tiltably, mounted, wherein the housings of the two weighing scales are movably, and in particular pivotably, mounted relative to each other, and wherein the weighing elements are arranged opposite each other, at least after the housings of the weighing scales have moved towards each other, particularly with respect to the pouring edges. Preferably, the pouring elements, particularly in the possible embodiment of the weighing scales in which the pouring elements themselves define the respective receiving space, are arranged opposite each other and / or mirror-symmetrically to the vertical plane when the housings of the weighing scales are in a position of abutment each other, particularly with respect to the pouring edges.Preferably, the pouring elements, particularly in a further possible embodiment where the movably mounted pouring elements close off the respective receiving chamber towards the hopper, are preferably designed as closing flaps. In a position where the housings of the weighing scales are in contact with each other, they are arranged opposite each other and / or mirror-symmetrically to the vertical plane, particularly with respect to the pivot axes. Preferably, the pivot axes of the pouring elements are arranged mirror-symmetrically to the vertical plane. Preferably, the pouring elements, particularly in a further possible embodiment where the movably mounted pouring elements are designed as closing flaps, are arranged opposite each other with respect to the vertical plane when the housings of the weighing scales are in contact with each other.Preferably, in a further possible embodiment of the dispensing scales, in which the dispensing elements are designed as closing flaps, the pivot axes of the dispensing elements can be arranged at angles relative to the vertical plane that deviate from 90°, 180°, and 360° as a result of the housings moving away from each other. The housings are preferably movably, and in particular pivotably, mounted on a frame of the dispensing device. Preferably, the housings are each movably, and in particular pivotably, mounted relative to each other about an axis of movement, in particular a pivot axis, of the dispensing unit, which runs at least substantially perpendicular to the horizontal plane.The term "essentially perpendicular" is intended to define, in particular, an orientation of a direction relative to a reference direction, wherein the direction and the reference direction, especially when viewed in a projection plane, enclose an angle of 90° and the angle has a maximum deviation of, in particular, less than 8°, advantageously less than 5°, and most advantageously less than 2°. Preferably, the pouring elements, especially in a possible embodiment of the pouring scales in which the pouring elements themselves define the receiving space, are each mounted in the corresponding housing so as to be tiltable about the respective tilting axis of the corresponding pouring element relative to the housing. Preferably, the housings are at least partially open on one side.Preferably, the housings are at least partially open on one side facing the hopper, particularly to allow bulk material to be fed into the hopper by means of the dispensing elements in a manner already known to those skilled in the art. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the dispensing scales each have a largely open frame in which the corresponding dispensing element is movably mounted and which is movably mounted relative to the frame of the dosing device. The inventive design of the dosing device advantageously allows for a high degree of ease of maintenance of the dispensing scales, especially since convenient access to individual components of the dispensing scales can be achieved after the housings have been separated. Special maintenance hatches on the housings can be advantageously omitted, which particularly benefits the saving of installation space.A compact design of the dosing device can be advantageously implemented. Due to the opposing arrangement of the dispensing elements, the hopper of the dosing device can advantageously be designed with a small opening, thus allowing for a low overall hopper height, particularly with consistent minimum angles to the vertical of the hopper's side walls compared to existing dosing devices, preferably without negatively impacting the dosing device's production output.

[0009] Furthermore, it is proposed that the two weighing units each have a housing, in particular the one already mentioned, on, and in particular in, the respective weighing element is movably, and in particular tiltably, mounted, wherein the housings of the two weighing units are movably, and in particular pivotably, mounted relative to each other along an arc-shaped path of motion of the weighing units. The arc-shaped path of motion of the weighing units preferably runs in a plane extending at least substantially parallel to the horizontal plane. Preferably, the dosing device comprises at least one guide unit by means of which the arc-shaped path of motion of the housings can be realized. The guide unit can, for example, comprise at least one arc-shaped guide rail and at least one guide slide movably mounted thereon, at least one guide roller, or the like, for each housing.The guide unit can be designed as a sliding guide unit, a roller guide unit, or as another guide unit deemed suitable by a person skilled in the art. The inventive design of the dosing device advantageously allows for a large range of movement of the housings while requiring minimal space, for example, to provide user-friendly access to the weighing scales. It also advantageously facilitates the maintenance of the weighing scales, particularly since the housings can be easily accessed after separation. It is advantageously possible to dispense with special maintenance hatches on the housings, which leads to a significant saving of installation space. Finally, it is advantageously possible to achieve a compact design of the dosing device.

[0010] Furthermore, it is proposed that the dosing device comprises at least one motion coupling unit, wherein the two weighing scales each have a housing, in particular the one already mentioned, on, and in particular in, the respective dispensing element is movably, and in particular tiltably, mounted, wherein the housings of the two weighing scales can be moved in different, and in particular opposite, directions by means of the motion coupling unit, and in particular at least substantially synchronously, depending on a movement of at least one of the housings of the two weighing scales. Preferably, the dosing device comprises at least one drive unit, in particular an electric motor unit, which is provided for moving the housings relative to each other, in particular via the motion coupling unit.However, it is also conceivable that the dosing device is designed without a drive unit for moving the housings, and that the housings can be moved manually by an operator. The motion coupling unit can be designed as a gear drive unit, a connecting rod unit, or another motion coupling unit that would appear sensible to a person skilled in the art, in order to achieve a movement dependency of the housings. The inventive design of the dosing device advantageously allows for simple movement dependency of the housings, for example, to enable simultaneous, user-friendly access to the bulk scales. A high level of serviceability of the bulk scales can be advantageously achieved, particularly since convenient access to individual components of the bulk scales can be realized after the housings have been separated.It is advantageous to dispense with special maintenance hatches on the housings, which particularly saves installation space. A compact design of the dosing device can also be advantageously implemented.

[0011] It is further proposed that the dosing unit comprise at least one volumetric feeder, in particular a screw feeder, which is movable by means of the motion coupling unit depending on a movement of the housings of the two bulk scales relative to the two bulk scales, and in particular is movable between the bulk scales. The volumetric feeder preferably has a mode of operation for dosing bulk material that is already known to a person skilled in the art. Preferably, the volumetric feeder is designed as a screw feeder. However, it is also conceivable that the volumetric feeder has another design that would appear advantageous to a person skilled in the art. The volumetric feeder is preferably movably mounted translationally on a frame of the dosing device, in particular by means of a guide carriage or the like of the guide unit of the dosing device.An axis of movement of the volumetric dispenser preferably runs at least substantially parallel to the horizontal plane and / or at least substantially perpendicular to the axes of movement of the housings of the weighing scales. The volumetric dispenser is preferably connected to the weighing scales by means of the motion coupling unit, in particular by means of push rods of the motion coupling unit. The volumetric dispenser is preferably movable translationally between the two weighing scales as a result of a pivoting movement of the weighing scales relative to each other, in particular until a dispensing opening of the volumetric dispenser is arranged above the hopper. Preferably, the volumetric dispenser can alternatively be arranged above the hopper in order to implement a change in the dispensing mode by means of the dispensing device. The design according to the invention advantageously allows for a compact design of the dispensing device.Advantageously, a drive unit for the dosing device can be used to move the weighing scales relative to each other and the volumetric dosing unit relative to the weighing scales, thus saving costs for additional drive units. A space-saving arrangement for two types of dosing systems can be advantageously achieved. A high degree of flexibility regarding the application possibilities of the dosing device can be advantageously realized. Easy maintenance of the individual dosing systems can be advantageously facilitated.

[0012] Furthermore, it is proposed that the two weighing scales each have a housing, in particular the one already mentioned, in which the respective dispensing element is movably, and in particular tiltably, mounted. The housings of the two weighing scales each have a side wall that is at least partially open, and this side wall is arranged on a side of the housings of the two weighing scales that is aligned at least substantially parallel to the dispensing edge of the respective dispensing element. Preferably, the side walls that are at least partially open are arranged on a side of the respective housing that faces the other housing in the operating state in which the dispensing elements are arranged opposite each other. The design of the dosing device according to the invention advantageously allows user-friendly access to the weighing scales in at least one position of the housings relative to each other.A high level of serviceability of the weighing scales can be advantageously achieved, particularly since convenient access to individual components can be provided after separating the housings. Special maintenance hatches on the housings can be advantageously omitted, which leads to a significant saving of installation space. A compact design of the dosing device can also be advantageously implemented.

[0013] Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for operating a dosing device according to the invention. It is proposed that, in at least one method step, the housings of the two weighing scales, in particular those already mentioned, are moved along a path of motion of the weighing scales to an opposing arrangement of the weighing elements with respect to the pouring edges, driven in particular by a motor unit of the dosing device. Preferably, the control unit of the dosing device is configured to carry out the method according to the invention. However, it is also conceivable that the dosing device itself comprises a computing unit that is connected to the control unit of the dosing device via control and / or data technology and is configured to carry out the method according to the invention.The inventive design of the dosing device advantageously enables a high level of serviceability for the weighing scales, particularly since convenient access to individual components of the weighing scales can be achieved after separating the housings. Special maintenance hatches on the housings can be advantageously omitted, which particularly saves installation space. A compact design of the dosing device can also be advantageously implemented.

[0014] Furthermore, it is proposed that, particularly in at least one process step of the process, at least one volumetric feeder, especially a screw feeder, of the dosing unit is moved depending on a movement and / or position of the housings of the two weighing scales relative to the two weighing scales, particularly between the weighing scales. Preferably, the volumetric feeder is moved as a result of a motion coupling by means of the motion coupling unit depending on a movement of the housings of the two weighing scales relative to the two weighing scales. However, it is also conceivable that the dosing device includes an additional drive unit for moving the volumetric feeder and a sensor unit, such as a light barrier unit, a touch sensor unit, or the like.The device comprises a system for detecting the position of the housings of the two weighing scales, wherein the volumetric dosing unit moves depending on the position of the housings of the two weighing scales, detected in particular by means of the sensor unit. Further movement sequences and / or motion controls of the volumetric dosing unit and the weighing scales relative to each other, which would appear useful to a person skilled in the art, are also conceivable. The design according to the invention advantageously allows for a compact design of the dosing device. It advantageously enables space-saving accommodation of two types of dosing systems. It advantageously allows for a high degree of flexibility with regard to the possible applications of the dosing device.

[0015] Furthermore, it is proposed that, particularly in at least one process step, the volumetric dispenser is moved at least substantially synchronously with the bulk scales, especially by means of a motion coupling unit of the dosing device, particularly one of the previously mentioned units. Preferably, the volumetric dispenser is moved at least substantially synchronously with the bulk scales by means of a motion coupling unit, particularly a rigid one. However, it is also conceivable that the volumetric dispenser is moved at a time offset from the bulk scales, for example, when using the additional drive unit, such as only being moved after the bulk scales have been fully separated, or the like. The design according to the invention advantageously allows for a compact design of the dosing device.It is advantageous to achieve a space-saving arrangement for two types of dosing systems. It is also advantageous to achieve a high degree of flexibility regarding the application possibilities of the dosing device.

[0016] Furthermore, a packaging machine, in particular a vertical form-fill-seal machine, with at least one dosing device according to the invention is proposed. The packaging machine is preferably designed for forming, filling, and sealing packaging. The packaging machine may include further devices and / or units that appear useful to a person skilled in the art, which can be used for forming, filling, and / or sealing packaging, in particular food packaging, such as a conveying unit, a filling unit which, for example, includes the filling tube, a sealing device which, for example, includes a transverse sealing unit and a longitudinal sealing unit, a closure feeding device, a sterilization device, or the like.The packaging machine preferably comprises at least one control unit for controlling the individual units and / or devices of the packaging machine, particularly in a manner already known to those skilled in the art. The inventive design of the packaging machine advantageously allows for a compact design. Due to the opposing arrangement of the dispensing elements, the hopper of the dosing device can advantageously be designed with a small opening, thus allowing for a low overall height of the hopper, especially when the minimum angles to the vertical of the hopper's side walls remain constant compared to known dosing devices, thereby also keeping the overall height of the packaging machine low.

[0017] The dosing device, the method, and / or the packaging machine according to the invention are not intended to be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the dosing device, the method, and / or the packaging machine according to the invention may, in order to achieve a functionality described herein, have a different number of individual elements, components, units, and process steps than those specified herein. Furthermore, values ​​within the specified limits of the value ranges stated in this disclosure shall also be considered disclosed and freely usable. Drawings

[0018] Further advantages become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. A person skilled in the art will expediently consider the features individually and combine them into meaningful further combinations.

[0019] They show: Fig. 1 A packaging machine with at least one dosing device according to the invention in a schematic representation, Fig. 2 A detailed view of the dosing device according to the invention, wherein the dosing scales of the dosing device are arranged in an operating position, in a schematic representation, Fig. 3 A further detailed view of the dosing device according to the invention, wherein the dosing scales of the dosing device are arranged in a spread-out position, in a schematic representation, Fig. 4 A further detailed view of the dosing device according to the invention, wherein a volumetric feeder of the dosing device is arranged in a position between the spread-out dosing scales, in a schematic representation, Fig. 5 A flowchart of a method according to the invention for operating the dosing device according to the invention in a schematic representation, Fig.Fig. 6 shows an alternative embodiment of the dosing device according to the invention in a schematic representation, Fig. 7 shows a further alternative embodiment of the dosing device according to the invention in a schematic representation, and Fig. 8 shows a further alternative embodiment of the dosing device according to the invention in a schematic representation. Description of the exemplary implementations

[0020] Figure 1 Figure 12 shows a packaging machine 12 for packaging products, in particular foodstuffs. Preferably, the packaging machine 12 is designed to package bulk goods in the form of foodstuffs, such as coffee beans, coffee powder, flour, sugar, muesli, or the like. The packaging machine 12 is preferably designed as a vertical form-fill-seal machine. The packaging machine 12 comprises at least one dosing device 10 (see Figure 10). Figures 2 to 4) for dosing bulk material. The packaging machine 12 can include further devices and / or units that appear useful to a person skilled in the art, which can be used for forming, filling and / or closing packaging, in particular food packaging, such as a conveying unit, a filling unit which, for example, includes a filling tube 56, a sealing device which, for example, includes a transverse sealing unit and a longitudinal sealing unit, a closure feeding device, a sterilization device or the like. The packaging machine 12 preferably includes at least one control or regulating unit 58 for controlling or regulating the individual units and / or devices of the packaging machine 12, in particular in a manner already known to a person skilled in the art.

[0021] Figure 2Figure 1 shows a detailed view of the dosing device 10. The dosing device 10 for the packaging machine 12 comprises at least one dosing unit 14, which has at least two weighing scales 16, 18, each having at least one, in particular a rectangular, cross-sectional element 20, 22 (see Figure 10). Figures 3 and 4 ) which is movable, in particular tiltable in at least one possible embodiment of the hoppers 16, 18 and pivotable in at least one further possible embodiment of the hoppers 16, 18 not shown in detail here. Preferably, the hopper elements 20, 22 each have at least one hopper edge 24, 26, in particular designed as a longitudinal edge (see Figure 1). Figures 3 and 4 ) on. In at least one operating state, in particular in the state described in Figure 2In the illustrated operating state of the dosing device 10, the pouring elements 20, 22 are arranged opposite each other with respect to the pouring edges 24, 26, and in particular free of elements arranged between the pouring elements 20, 22, and in particular mirror-symmetrically to a vertical plane 28. Figures 2 to 4Preferably, for the purpose of illustrating the operation of the dosing device 10, a possible embodiment of the weighing scales 16, 18 is shown, in which the pouring elements 20, 22 themselves define a respective receiving space of the weighing scales 16, 18. However, other embodiments of the weighing scales 16, 18 that would appear sensible to a person skilled in the art are also conceivable, such as a further possible embodiment of the weighing scales 16, 18 (not shown in detail here), in which a receiving space of the respective weighing scale 16, 18 can be closed by pouring elements 20, 22 designed as closing flaps, wherein the pouring elements 20, 22 are designed to close the receiving space of the respective weighing scale 16, 18 and to release it as a result of a pivoting movement.

[0022] Preferably, the dispensing elements 20, 22 each have an axis of movement 62, 64, in particular a tilting axis, which runs at least substantially parallel to a horizontal plane 66. The dispensing elements 20, 22 preferably have a rectangular cross-sectional shape, particularly when viewed in the horizontal plane 66. Preferably, the metering device 10 comprises at least one hopper 60, which, viewed along a vertical direction, is arranged below the metering unit 14. The metering unit 14 is preferably designed to feed bulk material to the hopper 60 for feeding to the filling tube 56 in a manner already known to those skilled in the art. Preferably, in at least one operating state of the metering device 10, the dispensing elements 20, 22 are designed to feed bulk material, in particular a predetermined quantity, to the hopper 60.

[0023] Preferably, the two weighing scales 16, 18 each have a housing 30, 32, in which the respective dispensing element 20, 22 is movably, and in particular tiltably, mounted, wherein the housings 30, 32 of the two weighing scales 16, 18 are movably, and in particular pivotably, mounted relative to each other, wherein the dispensing elements 20, 22 are arranged opposite each other with respect to the dispensing edges 24, 26, at least after a movement of the housings 30, 32 of the weighing scales 16, 18 towards each other. In particular, the metering device 10 comprises at least one clamping unit (not shown in detail here) which is provided for automatically connecting the filling tube 56 and / or the hopper 60 to the weighing scales 16, 18 after a movement of the housings 30, 32 of the weighing scales 16, 18 towards each other. Preferably, the pouring elements 20, 22 are arranged opposite each other in a position adjacent to the housings 30, 32 of the pouring scales 16, 18 with respect to the pouring edges 24, 26.The housings 30, 32 of the two bulk weighing scales 16, 18 preferably each have at least a partially open side wall (cf. . Figures 3 and 4 ), wherein the at least partially open side wall is arranged on one side 46, 48 of the housings 30, 32 of the two weighing scales 16, 18, which is aligned at least substantially parallel to the pouring edge 24, 26 of the respective pouring element 20, 22. Preferably, the at least partially open side walls are arranged on the side 46, 48 of the respective housing 30, 32 which, in the operating state in which the pouring elements 20, 22 are arranged opposite each other, faces the other housing 30, 32.

[0024] The housings 30, 32 are preferably movably, in particular pivotably, mounted on a frame 68 of the dosing device 10. Preferably, the housings 30, 32 are each movably, in particular pivotally, mounted relative to each other about an axis of movement 70, 72, in particular a pivot axis, of the dosing unit 14, which runs at least substantially perpendicular to the horizontal plane 66. Preferably, the housings 30, 32 of the two weighing scales 16, 18 are movably, in particular pivotably, mounted relative to each other along an arc-shaped path of movement 34, 36 of the weighing scales 16, 18. The arc-shaped path of movement 34, 36 of the weighing scales 16, 18 preferably runs in a plane extending at least substantially parallel to the horizontal plane 66. Preferably, the dosing device 10 comprises at least one guide unit 74 (see Figure 1). Figures 3 and 4), by means of which the arc-shaped movement path 34, 36 of the housings 30, 32 can be realized. The guide unit 74 can, for example, comprise at least one arc-shaped guide rail and at least one guide slide movably mounted thereon, at least one guide roller, or the like, for each housing 30, 32. The guide unit 74 can be designed as a sliding guide unit, as a roller guide unit, or as another guide unit that would appear useful to a person skilled in the art.

[0025] Preferably the dosing device 10 comprises at least one motion coupling unit 38 (see below). Figures 3 and 4), wherein the housings 30, 32 of the two bulk scales 16, 18 can be moved in different, in particular opposite, directions 40, 42 by means of the motion coupling unit 38, in particular at least substantially synchronously, depending on a movement of at least one of the housings 30, 32, in particular both housings 30, 32, of the two bulk scales 16, 18. Preferably, the dosing device 10 comprises at least one drive unit 54 (see ). Figures 3 and 4 ), in particular an electric motor unit which is intended to move the housings 30, 32, in particular via the motion coupling unit 38, relative to each other.

[0026] Furthermore, the dosing unit 14 comprises at least one volumetric dosing unit 44, in particular a screw dosing unit, which is movable by means of the motion coupling unit 38 depending on a movement of the housings 30, 32 of the two bulk scales 16, 18 relative to the two bulk scales 16, 18, in particular is movable between the bulk scales 16, 18 (cf. Figures 3 and 4The volumetric dispenser 44 is preferably movably mounted translationally on the frame 68 of the dosing device 10, in particular by means of a guide slide or the like of the guide unit 74. An axis of movement 76 of the volumetric dispenser 44 preferably runs at least substantially parallel to the horizontal plane 66 and / or at least substantially perpendicular to the axes of movement 70, 72 of the housings 30, 32 of the weighing scales 16, 18. The volumetric dispenser 44 is preferably connected to the weighing scales 16, 18 by means of the motion coupling unit 38, in particular by means of push rods 78, 80 of the motion coupling unit 38 (see Figure 3). Figures 3 and 4The volumetric dispenser 44 is preferably movable translationally between the two bulk scales 16, 18 as a result of a pivoting movement of the bulk scales 16, 18 relative to each other, in particular until a discharge opening of the volumetric dispenser 44 is arranged above the hopper 60 (see Figure 44). Preferably, the volumetric dispenser 44 can alternatively be arranged above the hopper 60 instead of the two bulk scales 16, 18 in order to implement a change in dosing mode by means of the dosing device 10.

[0027] Figure 5Figure 1 shows a schematic flowchart of a process 50 for operating the dosing device 10. In at least one process step 52 of the process 50, the housings 30, 32 of the two weighing scales 16, 18, in which the respective dispensing elements 20, 22 are movably, in particular tiltably, mounted, are moved to an opposing arrangement of the dispensing elements 20, 22 with respect to the dispensing edges 24, 26, in particular by the drive unit 54 of the dosing device 10, along the path of movement 34, 36 of the weighing scales 16, 18 (see, for example, the position of the weighing scales 16, 18 in Figure 1). Figure 3 in contrast to the position of the bulk scales 16, 18 in Figure 2Preferably, in at least one process step 82 of the process 50, at least the volumetric feeder 44, in particular the screw feeder, of the dosing unit 14 is moved depending on a movement and / or a position of the housings 30, 32 of the two bulk weighing units 16, 18 relative to the two bulk weighing units 16, 18, in particular between the bulk weighing units 16, 18 (see, for example, the position of the volumetric feeder 44 in [reference]). Figure 2 in contrast to the positions of the volumetric dispenser 44 in Figures 3 and 4Preferably, the volumetric dosing unit 44 is moved, in particular by means of the motion coupling unit 38 of the dosing device 10, at least substantially synchronously with the bulk scales 16, 18, especially in process step 82 of the process 50. The process 50 for operating the dosing device 10 may include further process steps that appear useful to a person skilled in the art. In addition, possible process steps that arise from the description of the Figures 1 to 4 can be deduced, for the purposes of procedure 50, they shall be deemed disclosed.

[0028] In Figures 6 to 8Further embodiments of the invention, in particular of the bulk scales according to the invention, are shown. The following descriptions and the drawings are essentially limited to the differences between the embodiments, whereby with regard to identically designated components, in particular with regard to components with the same reference numerals, reference is generally also made to the drawings and / or the description of the other embodiment, in particular the Figures 1 to 5 , can be referenced. To distinguish the embodiments, the reference numerals of the embodiments in the Figures 6 to 8 one, two or three apostrophes placed after the end.

[0029] Figure 6Figure 1 shows an alternative embodiment of the weighing scales 16', 18' of a dosing device 10' according to the invention. The dosing device 10' comprises at least one dosing unit 14', which has at least two weighing scales 16', 18', each of which has at least one, in particular a polygonal, preferably triangular, cross-sectional element 20', 22', which is movably, in particular tiltably, mounted. In at least one operating state, the weighing elements 20', 22' are arranged opposite each other, in particular with respect to the weighing edges 24', 26' of the weighing elements 20', 22', preferably free of elements arranged between the weighing elements 20', 22', and in particular mirror-symmetrically to a vertical plane 28'. Preferably, the weighing elements 20', 22' each have at least one, in particular designed as a longitudinal edge, weighing edge 24', 26'.The pouring edge 24', 26' of the respective pouring element 20', 22' is preferably designed as a longitudinal edge of the respective pouring element 20', 22', in particular along which the respective pouring element 20', 22' has its maximum longitudinal extent. The pouring elements 20', 22' are preferably arranged opposite each other, in particular in a filling state, with respect to the pouring edges 24', 26', and in particular free of elements arranged between the pouring elements 20', 22', and in particular mirror-symmetrically to the vertical plane 28'. The pouring elements 20', 22' are preferably designed free of closing flaps movably arranged on the pouring elements 20', 22'.The dispensing elements 20', 22' preferably each define a receiving space in which bulk material to be metered can be arranged, wherein the dispensing elements 20', 22' themselves are movable in order to discharge the bulk material, in particular to feed it into a hopper (not shown in detail here). The dispensing edges 24', 26' are preferably edges of the dispensing elements 20', 22', over which the bulk material to be metered can be conveyed out of the dispensing elements 20', 22', in particular out of the respective receiving space, as a result of a movement, in particular a tilting movement, of the dispensing elements 20', 22' about an axis of movement 62', 64' of the respective dispensing element 20', 22'. Regarding further features of the . Figure 6 The dosing device 10' shown is also generally described in the description of the Figures 1 to 5 referred.

[0030] Figure 7Figure 1 shows a further alternative embodiment of dispensing scales 16", 18" of a dosing device 10" according to the invention. The dosing device 10" comprises at least one dosing unit 14", which has at least two dispensing scales 16", 18", each having at least one dispensing element 20", 22", which is movably, and in particular tiltably, mounted. In at least one operating state, the dispensing elements 20", 22", are arranged opposite each other, and in particular mirror-symmetrically to a vertical plane 28", with respect to dispensing edges 24", 26" of the dispensing elements 20", 22", preferably free of elements arranged between the dispensing elements 20", 22", respectively. Preferably, the dispensing elements 20", 22" each have at least one dispensing edge 24", 26", which is designed in particular as a longitudinal edge.The pouring edge 24", 26" of the respective pouring element 20", 22" is preferably designed as the longitudinal edge of the respective pouring element 20", 22" in particular along which the respective pouring element 20", 22" has its maximum longitudinal extent. The pouring elements 20", 22" are preferably arranged opposite each other in at least one operating state, in particular in a filling state and in a discharging state, with respect to the pouring edges 24", 26", in particular free of elements arranged between the pouring elements 20", 22" in particular symmetrically to the vertical plane 28". The pouring elements 20", 22" are preferably designed as closing flaps, which are each pivotably mounted on a receiving chamber of the respective pouring scale 16", 18" and can close or open a discharge opening of the receiving chamber.The receiving chamber of the respective weighing scale 16", 18" is designed to be fixed, particularly relative to a housing (not shown in detail here) of the respective weighing scale 16", 18", wherein the pouring elements 20", 22" designed as closing flaps each have a pivot axis 62", 64" which runs at least substantially parallel to a horizontal plane 66". The pouring elements 20", 22" are preferably designed to close the receiving chamber of the respective weighing scale 16", 18", particularly in the direction of a hopper (not shown in detail here) and, as a result of a pivoting movement, to open a discharge opening of the receiving chamber facing the hopper.The pouring elements 20", 22", designed as closing flaps, are preferably arranged on an outside of the respective receiving chamber to open or close the dispensing opening of the respective receiving chamber, particularly as a result of movement outside the respective receiving chamber. However, it is also conceivable that the pouring elements 20", 22" are alternatively arranged on an inside of the respective receiving chamber to open or close the dispensing opening of the respective receiving chamber, particularly as a result of movement of the pouring elements 20", 22" within the respective receiving chamber. Regarding further features of the [reference to be added]... Figure 7 The dosing device 10" shown is also generally described in the description of the Figures 1 to 5 referred.

[0031] Figure 8Figure 1 shows a further alternative embodiment of weighing scales 16"', 18‴ of a dosing device 10‴ according to the invention. The dosing device 10‴ comprises at least one dosing unit 14"', which has at least two weighing scales 16"', 18‴, each of which has at least two, in particular designed as closing flaps, pouring elements 20"', 22‴ which are movably, in particular tiltably, mounted. In at least one operating state, at least one pouring element 20‴ of the pouring scale 16‴ and at least one pouring element 22‴ of the pouring scale 18‴ are arranged opposite each other, particularly in relation to pouring edges 24‴, 26‴ of the respective pouring elements 20‴, 22‴, preferably free of elements arranged between the pouring elements 20‴, 22‴, and in particular symmetrically to a vertical plane 28‴. Regarding further features of the Figure 8 The dosing device 10 shown is also generally described in the description of the Figures 1 to 5as well as 7 referred to, since the in the Figure 8 The dosing device 10‴ shown, except for a number of dispensing elements 20‴, 22‴ arranged on a receiving chamber per dispensing scale 16‴, 18‴, is essentially the same as shown in Figure 7 The dosing device shown corresponds to 10".

Claims

1. Dosing device for a packaging machine, in particular a vertical form-fill-seal machine, with at least one dosing unit (14) which has at least two weighing scales (16, 18) which each have at least one, in particular a rectangular cross-sectional shape, weighing element (20, 22) which is movably, in particular tiltably, mounted, characterized by the fact that In at least one operating state, the pouring elements (20, 22), in particular with respect to pouring edges (24, 26) of the pouring elements (20, 22), are arranged opposite each other, in particular in a mirror-symmetrical manner to a vertical plane (28).

2. Metering device at least according to the preamble of claim 1, in particular according to claim 1, characterized by the fact thatthe two weighing scales (16, 18) each have a housing (30, 32), in particular in which the respective weighing element (20, 22) is movably, in particular tiltably, mounted, wherein the housings (30, 32) of the two weighing scales (16, 18) are movably, in particular pivotably, mounted relative to each other, wherein the weighing elements (20, 22) are arranged opposite each other at least after a movement of the housings (30, 32) of the weighing scales (16, 18) towards each other, in particular with respect to the pouring edges (24, 26).

3. Dosing device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the fact that the two bulk weighing units (16, 18) each have a housing (30, 32) on, in particular in, in which the respective bulking element (20, 22) is movably, in particular tiltably, mounted, wherein the housings (30, 32) of the two bulk weighing units (16, 18) are movably, in particular pivotably, mounted relative to each other along an arc-shaped path of movement (34, 36) of the bulk weighing units (16, 18).

4. Metering device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one motion coupling unit (38), wherein the two bulking scales (16, 18) each have a housing (30, 32), on, in particular in, in which the respective bulking element (20, 22) is movably, in particular tiltably, mounted, wherein the housings (30, 32) of the two bulking scales (16, 18) are movable in different, in particular opposite, directions (40, 42) depending on a movement of at least one of the housings (30, 32) of the two bulking scales (16, 18) by means of the motion coupling unit (38), in particular at least substantially synchronously.

5. Dosing device according to claim 4, characterized by the fact thatthe dosing unit (14) has at least one volume feeder (44), in particular a screw feeder, which is movable by means of the motion coupling unit (38) depending on a movement of the housings (30, 32) of the two bulk scales (16, 18) relative to the two bulk scales (16, 18), in particular is movable between the bulk scales (16, 18).

6. Dosing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact thatthe two weighing scales (16, 18) each have a housing (30, 32) on, in particular in, in which the respective weighing element (20, 22) is movably, in particular tiltably, mounted, wherein the housings (30, 32) of the two weighing scales (16, 18) each have a side wall that is at least partially open, wherein the side wall that is at least partially open is arranged on a side (46, 48) of the housings (30, 32) of the two weighing scales (16, 18) which is aligned at least substantially parallel to the pouring edge (24, 26) of the respective pouring element (20, 22).

7. Method for operating a metering device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact thatin at least one process step (52) housings (30, 32) of the two weighing scales (16, 18), in particular in which the respective weighing elements (20, 22) are movably, in particular tiltably, mounted, to an opposite arrangement of the weighing elements (20, 22), in particular with respect to the weighing edges (24, 26), in particular driven by a drive unit (54) of the dosing device, along a movement path (34, 36) of the weighing scales (16, 18).

8. Method according to claim 7, characterized by the fact that at least one volume feeder (44), in particular a screw feeder, the feeder unit (14) is moved depending on a movement and / or a position of the housings (30, 32) of the two bulk scales (16, 18) relative to the two bulk scales (16, 18), in particular between the bulk scales (16, 18).

9. Method according to claim 8, characterized by the fact thatthe volumetric dosing unit (44) is moved, in particular by means of a motion coupling unit (38) of the dosing device, at least substantially synchronously with the bulk scales (16, 18).

10. Packaging machine, in particular vertical form-fill-seal machine, with at least one dosing device, according to one of claims 1 to 6.

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