Packaging device and method of folding flap

Abstract

To provide a packaging device capable of properly folding a flap.SOLUTION: A packaging device comprises a folding-in part 33 which folds a pair of upper inner flaps 16 inward. The folding-in part 33 has a pair of folding-in arms 71 which are provided rotatably, a pair of push-in piece parts 74 which are provided at radially tip ends of the pair of folding-in arms 71, and a pair of push-in rollers 75 which are rotatably supported about axes by the pair of folding-in arms 71. When a contact interval is equal to or less than an extension dimension of the upper inner flaps 16, the push-in piece parts 74 come into contact with the base end sides of top surfaces of the upper inner flaps 16 after the push-in rollers 75 come into contact with tip sides of top surfaces of the upper inner flaps 16 in the process in which the pair of folding-in arms 71 rotate to fold the upper inner flaps 16 inward, the push-in rollers 75 move away from the upper inner flaps 16 as the rotation of the folding-in arms 71 proceeds, and the folding-in arms 71 rotate while bringing only the push-in piece parts 74 into contact with the upper inner flaps 16.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 19

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a packaging device for packaging an item in a packaging box and a method for folding a flap. [Background technology]

[0002] A dunnage filling machine including a flap pusher for folding flaps on the short sides of a container has been disclosed (Patent Document 1). The flap pusher is formed in the shape of an arm that rotates around a fulcrum at its upper part. The flap pusher (arm) is formed in a roughly J-shape with the tip side curved outward, and a protrusion is provided at the middle part of the arm so that the tip of the flap can engage with it. The flap pusher (arm) rotates around the fulcrum, and a part (one point) of the J-shaped part (curved part) comes into contact with the surface of the flap, pushing the flap in. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2013-067428 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the above-mentioned technology, since the arm is structured to press the flap while only a part of the curved portion is in contact with the flap, depending on the contact position of the arm with the flap, it may not be possible to accurately bend the flap along the boundary line with the side surface of the container. For example, when the arm presses the base end side of the flap, the force (torque) required to bend the flap is not obtained, and the flap cannot be bent. On the other hand, when the arm presses the tip side of the flap, the side surface collapses inward together with the flap, and the side surface may be indented (deformed) inward into a V-shape (or U-shape). This phenomenon is likely to occur when the extension dimension of the flap is large or the width of the side surface (flap) is large.

[0005] In consideration of the above circumstances, the present invention provides a packaging device and a method for folding flaps that can properly fold flaps. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention relates to a packaging device for packaging an item in a packaging box, the packaging device including a folding unit for folding inwardly along a horizontal crease a pair of flaps extending from upper ends of a pair of side walls opposed to each other across an internal space of the packaging box, the folding unit including a pair of folding arms extending radially outwardly from a pair of pivot shafts and rotatably disposed about the pivot shafts, a pair of pushing pieces provided at the radially inner ends of the pair of folding arms, and a pair of pushing rollers supported by the pair of folding arms rotatably about their axes at positions spaced radially inwardly from the pair of pushing pieces, the radius of rotation of a circular orbit around which the most distal ends of the pushing pieces move and the half-width of a circular orbit around which the axial center of the pushing roller moves are determined by a ratio of a rotation radius of the circular orbit around which the most distal ends of the pushing pieces move and a ratio of a rotation radius of the circular orbit around which the axial center of the pushing roller moves. When the contact distance, which is the difference between the diameter, is equal to or less than the extended dimension of the flap, in the process of the pair of folding arms rotating to sandwich the pair of flaps from the outside and folding the flaps inward, after the pushing roller contacts the tip side of the surface of the flap, the pushing piece contacts the surface of the flap on the base end side of the contact position of the pushing roller, and the folding arms rotate while keeping the pushing roller and the pushing piece in contact with the surface of the flap, and as the folding arms rotate and the flap is folded, the pushing roller moves away from the surface of the flap, and the folding arms rotate while keeping only the pushing piece in contact with the surface of the flap until the flap is in a horizontal position.

[0007] In this case, the pushing piece portion has a base end curved portion curved near the folding arm and a tip end curved portion curved at a free end side away from the folding arm, and is formed in a U-shape that bulges outward in the radial direction, and as the folding arm rotates and the flap is folded, the pushing piece portion moves its contact position with the surface of the flap from the tip end curved portion to the base end curved portion.

[0008] In this case, the folding section further includes a folding drive section which raises and lowers the folding arm, and with the flap in the horizontal position, the folding drive section lowers the folding arm with the base end curved section in contact with the surface of the flap, thereby pushing the flap into the interior of the packaging box.

[0009] In this case, the packaging box further includes a height measuring unit that measures the height of the contents contained inside the cylindrical body of the packaging box with the bottom closed, a scoring unit that forms a horizontal fold line in the wall of the cylindrical body based on the measurement results of the height measuring unit and divides the wall into the side wall and the flap, and a dividing unit that makes a cut along the vertical ridge line of the cylindrical body and separates the adjacent flaps, and when the contact distance exceeds the extension dimension of the flap, in the process of the pair of folding arms rotating to sandwich the pair of flaps from the outside and folding the flaps inward, the folding arms rotate until the flaps are in a horizontal position while keeping only the pushing piece portion in contact with the surface of the flap.

[0010] The present invention provides a method for folding the flaps using the packaging device described in claim 3, which includes a folding process in which, in the process of folding the flaps inward, the pushing roller is brought into contact with the surface of the flap, the pushing piece is brought into contact with the surface of the flap, and the folding arm is rotated while the pushing roller and the pushing piece are brought into contact with the surface of the flap, and as the folding arm rotates and the flap is folded, the pushing roller is moved away from the surface of the flap and the folding arm is rotated while only the pushing piece is brought into contact with the surface of the flap, thereby bringing the flap into the horizontal position; and a pushing process in which the folding arm, with the base end curved portion in contact with the surface of the flap brought into the horizontal position, is lowered by the folding drive unit, and the flap is pushed into the interior of the packaging box. Effect of the Invention

[0011] According to the present invention, the flap can be folded appropriately. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a side view showing a schematic diagram of a packaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing a blank for a packaging box according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a packaging box according to one embodiment of the present invention in a temporarily assembled state. [Figure 4] 1 is a plan view showing a schematic diagram of a creasing section of a packaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 5] 1 is a perspective view showing a portion of a creasing unit of a packaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 6] 3 is a plan view showing a schematic diagram of a dividing section of the packaging device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 7] 2 is a perspective view showing a part of a separating portion of a packaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 8] 1 is a perspective view showing a folding section of a packaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 9] 3 is a side view showing a part of a folding unit of the packaging device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the packaging box according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing a state in which a third fold line corresponding to the maximum height has been formed. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the packaging box according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing a state in which a third fold line corresponding to a minimum height has been formed. [Figure 12] FIG. 4 is a side view illustrating a cutting process performed by the packaging device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] 11 is a side view showing a state in which a cutting process by the packaging device according to one embodiment of the present invention has been completed. FIG. [Figure 14] 11 is a plan view showing a state in which a cutting process by the packaging device according to one embodiment of the present invention has been completed. FIG. [Figure 15]1 is a side view of a folding section of a packaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing a state before an upper inner flap of a packaging box (at maximum height) is folded. [Figure 16] 1 is a side view of a folding section of a packaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing a state in which an upper inner flap of a packaging box (at maximum height) is folded. [Figure 17] 1 is a side view of a folding section of a packaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing a state in which upper inner flaps of a packaging box (at maximum height) are pushed inward. [Figure 18] 1 is a side view of a folding section of a packaging device according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing a state in which only a pressing roller is in contact with an upper inner flap of a packaging box (minimum height). [Figure 19] 1 is a side view of a folding section of a packaging device according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing a state in which a pushing piece and a pushing roller are in contact with an upper inner flap of a packaging box (minimum height). [Figure 20] 1 is a side view of a folding section of a packaging device according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing a state in which only a pushing piece portion is in contact with an upper inner flap of a packaging box (minimum height). [Figure 21] 1 is a side view of a folding section of a packaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing a state in which an upper inner flap of a packaging box (minimum height) is folded. [Figure 22] 1 is a side view of a folding section of a packaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing a state in which an upper inner flap of a packaging box (minimum height) is pushed inward. [Figure 23] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a sealed state (maximum height) of the packaging box according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 24] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a sealed state (minimum height) of the packaging box according to one embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings. Note that Fr, Rr, L, R, U, and D shown in the drawings indicate front, rear, left, right, top, and bottom. The front-rear direction, left-right direction, and top-bottom direction are mutually orthogonal. Terms indicating directions and positions are used in this specification, but these terms are used for convenience of explanation and do not limit the technical scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the terms indicating directions and positions are based on the directions and positions in the state in which the packaging device is used.

[0014] A packaging device 2 and a packaging box 1 according to one embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 3. Fig. 1 is a side view showing a schematic view of the packaging device 2. Fig. 2 is a plan view showing a blank 1A of the packaging box 1. Fig. 3 is a perspective view showing the packaging box 1 in a provisionally assembled state.

[0015] The packaging device 2 is a device for packaging contents 90 in a packaging box 1. When packaging contents 90 in one type of packaging box 1, the packaging device 2 has a function of changing the height of the packaging box 1 according to the height of the contents 90. In other words, the packaging device 2 can package (pack) contents 90 of different heights in one type of packaging box 1. Note that the packaging device 2 can also package contents 90 in two or more types of packaging boxes 1 with different bottom (or top) areas (footprints) while changing the height of each packaging box 1.

[0016] [Packaging box] First, a packaging box 1 formed by a packaging device 2 will be described. The packaging box 1 is formed from a blank 1A shown in FIG. 2. The blank 1A is formed by punching out a single cardboard sheet made of paper using a die or the like. The cardboard sheet is, for example, a double-sided cardboard sheet in which a front liner 9B (front surface) and a back liner 9C (back surface) are bonded to a corrugated core 9A. In this specification, the direction parallel to the core 9A of the cardboard sheet is referred to as the "corrugation direction," and the direction perpendicular to the corrugation direction is referred to as the "flow direction." In the drawings, "X" indicates the "corrugation direction," and "Y" indicates the "flow direction."

[0017] [blank] As shown in FIG. 2, the blank 1A has a pair of first foundation walls 10, a pair of second foundation walls 11, a pair of lower inner flaps 13, and a pair of lower outer flaps 14. Since the pair of first foundation walls 10 have substantially the same shape, this specification will mainly describe one first foundation wall 10. For the same reason, this specification will mainly describe one second foundation wall 11, one lower inner flap 13, and one lower outer flap 14. In addition, in this specification, when the first foundation wall 10 and the second foundation wall 11 are collectively described, they may be simply referred to as "foundation walls 10, 11."

[0018] <1st foundation wall, 2nd foundation wall> The first foundation wall 10 is formed in a substantially rectangular shape with the step direction as the long side. The second foundation wall 11 is formed in a substantially rectangular shape with the same dimension in the step direction as the first foundation wall 10 and with the flow direction as the long side. The pair of first foundation walls 10 and the pair of second foundation walls 11 are alternately arranged in the flow direction and are connected via a bent portion 21. A joint piece 12 is connected to one end of the second foundation wall 11 in the flow direction via the bent portion 21. Although details will be described later, the pair of first foundation walls 10 and the pair of second foundation walls 11 are connected in an annular shape via the joint pieces 12 to form a cylindrical body 1W (see FIG. 3).

[0019] (Notch) At the corners of the foundation walls 10, 11 at both ends in the flow direction and at the boundary (bending portion 21) between the first foundation wall 10 and the second foundation wall 11, a notch 20 is cut from one end (upper end) to the other in the step direction. The notch 20 is recessed in a substantially V-shape (substantially triangular shape) that gradually narrows from one end (upper end) to the other (lower) in the step direction. The notch 20 formed at the corners of the foundation walls 10, 11 at both ends in the flow direction has a shape that is approximately half of the other notch 20, and will have approximately the same shape as the other notch 20 when the cylindrical body 1W is formed.

[0020] (bending part) The folding portion 21 has a first folding line L1 formed on the other side (lower side) of the corrugated sheet, and a break assist line 22 formed on one side (upper side) of the corrugated sheet. The first folding line L1 and the break assist line 22 are arranged in parallel on the same straight line along the corrugated sheet. The break assist line 22 is formed slightly longer in the corrugated sheet direction than the first folding line L1. The first folding line L1 is, for example, a general-purpose crease formed by crushing the cardboard sheet in the thickness direction from the back liner 9C side. The break assist line 22 is, for example, a perforation formed by alternately arranging the cuts 23A, 24A and the seams 23B, 24B. The cuts 23A, 24A are formed in a straight line penetrating the cardboard sheet in the thickness direction, and the seams 23B, 24B are the portions (portions without the cuts 23A, 24A) that are the intervals between the adjacent cuts 23A, 24A.

[0021] (Break extension line) The break assist line 22 has a first break line 23 and a second break line 24. The first break line 23 and the second break line 24 are formed to have approximately the same length in the step direction. The first break line 23 is formed between the upper end of the foundation walls 10, 11 (more precisely, the lowermost part of the notch portion 20) and approximately the center of the entire length of the break assist line 22. The cut 23A formed at the uppermost part of the first break line 23 is connected to the lowermost part of the notch portion 20. The second break line 24 is formed between the lower end of the first break line 23 and the upper end of the first fold line L1. The second break line 24 is formed so as to be more difficult to break than the first break line 23. Specifically, the cut 24A of the second break line 24 is shorter than the cut 23A of the first break line 23, and the seam 24B of the second break line 24 is longer than the seam 23B of the first break line 23. Although details will be described later, the lower end position of the first break line 23 (the upper end position of the second break line 24) corresponds to the maximum height (H1) of the packaging box 1 after sealing, and the lower end position of the second break line 24 (the upper end position of the first fold line L1) corresponds to the minimum height (H2) of the packaging box 1 after sealing.

[0022] <Lower inner flap, lower outer flap> The lower inner flap 13 is connected to the other end (lower end) in the step direction of the first foundation wall 10 via a second fold line L2 (e.g., a general-purpose crease). The lower inner flap 13 has a dimension in the flow direction that is approximately the same as that of the first foundation wall 10, and is formed in a substantially rectangular shape with the flow direction as its long side. The dimension in the step direction (extension dimension) of the lower inner flap 13 is approximately half the dimension in the flow direction of the first foundation wall 10. The lower outer flap 14 is connected to the other end (lower end) in the step direction of the second foundation wall 11 via a second fold line L2. The lower outer flap 14 has a dimension in the flow direction that is approximately the same as that of the second foundation wall 11, and is formed in a substantially rectangular shape with the flow direction as its long side. The dimension in the step direction (extension dimension) of the lower outer flap 14 is the same as the extension dimension of the lower inner flap 13.

[0023] Although the first fold line L1 and the second fold line L2 are general-purpose lines, the present invention is not limited to this and may be any structure for folding the cardboard sheet in the desired direction, such as a lead line having perforations formed on a general-purpose line.

[0024] [Initial state of packaging box] Although not shown in the drawings, a packaging box 1 is formed by folding flat from a blank 1A. Specifically, the first base wall 10 and the second base wall 11 located on both sides of the blank 1A in the flow direction are folded back approximately 180 degrees inward along the folding portion 21, and the joint piece 12 is adhered to the back surface (back liner 9C) of the first base wall 10 on the opposite side. As a result, the packaging box 1 is in its initial double-folded state.

[0025] [Temporary assembly of packaging box] The packaging box 1 in the initial state is temporarily assembled to accommodate contents 90 and to be packaged (sealed) by the packaging device 2. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 3, the packaging box 1 in the initial state is raised so that a pair of first foundation walls 10 and a pair of second foundation walls 11 are substantially perpendicular to each other. The pair of first foundation walls 10 and the pair of second foundation walls 11 form a substantially rectangular cylindrical body 1W with both upper and lower end faces open.

[0026] Next, the lower inner flap 13 is folded inward at a substantially right angle along the second fold line L2, and then the lower outer flap 14 is folded inward at a substantially right angle along the second fold line L2. The pair of lower inner flaps 13 are separated from each other at their leading ends, and the pair of lower outer flaps 14 are butted together and layered on the surfaces of the pair of lower inner flaps 13. An adhesive tape T is attached to the butted portion of the pair of lower outer flaps 14. The lower inner flap 13 and the lower outer flap 14 form the bottom that closes the bottom surface of the cylindrical body 1W.

[0027] The packaging box 1 is thus temporarily assembled. In the temporarily assembled packaging box 1, the bottom of the cylindrical body 1W is closed, a top opening 1U is opened on the top of the cylindrical body 1W, and the foundation walls 10, 11 are connected by a bent portion 21. The cutout portion 20 is provided so as to narrow downward at the corner of the top opening 1U of the cylindrical body 1W. The break assist line 22 is formed in the upper part of the vertical ridge line (the boundary between the first foundation wall 10 and the second foundation wall 11) of the cylindrical body 1W whose bottom is closed. The first break line 23 is formed between the corner of the top opening 1U of the cylindrical body 1W (more precisely, the lowest part of the cutout portion 20) and the position that is the maximum height (H1) of the packaging box 1 after sealing. The second break line 24 is formed between the lower end of the first break line 23 and the position that is the minimum height (H2) of the packaging box 1 after sealing. The temporarily assembled packaging box 1 (cylindrical body 1W) contains an item 90, and the packaging box 1 containing the item 90 is introduced into a packaging device 2 (see FIG. 1).

[0028] [Packaging equipment] Next, the packaging device 2 will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 1 and Fig. 4 to Fig. 9. Fig. 4 is a plan view showing a schematic representation of the creasing section 31. Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing a portion of the creasing section 31. Fig. 6 is a plan view showing a schematic representation of the dividing section 32. Fig. 7 is a perspective view showing a portion of the dividing section 32. Fig. 8 is a perspective view showing the folding section 33. Fig. 9 is a side view showing a portion of the folding section 33.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 1, the packaging device 2 includes a height measuring section 30, a creasing section 31, a dividing section 32, a folding section 33, and a sealing section 34. The packaging device 2 also includes a conveyor 35 that intermittently transports the packaging box 1. The packaging device 2 also includes a control section 36 that appropriately controls the sections 30 to 34 and the conveyor 35. The height measuring section 30, the creasing section 31, the dividing section 32, the folding section 33, and the sealing section 34 are arranged in a line in this order from upstream to downstream in the transport direction of the packaging box 1. The conveyor 35 is installed over the entire area of ​​the height measuring section 30, the creasing section 31, the dividing section 32, the folding section 33, and the sealing section 34. In this specification, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to the upstream and downstream of the transport direction of the packaging box 1.

[0030] <Height measurement section> As shown in FIG. 1, the height measuring unit 30 measures the height of the contained item 90 contained inside the cylinder 1W (temporarily assembled packaging box 1) with the top opening 1U open. The height measuring unit 30 has a laser light source 30A that emits a band-shaped laser light to the contained item 90 and a light receiving element 30B that receives the reflected light reflected on the surface of the contained item 90, and measures the height (shape) of the contained item 90 using the principle of the light cutting method. The height measuring unit 30 is electrically connected to the control unit 36 ​​and is driven and controlled by the control unit 36. The light reception information (measurement result of the height measuring unit 30) of the light receiving element 30B is transmitted to the control unit 36.

[0031] <Creasing section> The creasing unit 31 forms a third fold line L3 (horizontal fold line) in the foundation walls 10, 11 (wall portions) of the cylindrical body 1W according to the height of the contents 90 (see Figs. 10 and 11 described later). The creasing unit 31 has a first creasing unit 40 that forms the third fold line L3 in a pair of first foundation walls 10 that form the short side of the top opening 1U, and a second creasing unit 50 that forms the third fold line L3 in a pair of second foundation walls 11 (wall portions) that form the long side of the top opening 1U. The second creasing unit 50 is disposed downstream of the first creasing unit 40 (see Fig. 1).

[0032] <First crease section> 1, the first creasing unit 40 has two pairs of first arms 41, a first drive unit 42, and a pair of first roller units 43. Since the two pairs of first arms 41 have substantially the same structure, this specification will mainly describe a pair of first arms 41 provided corresponding to one first foundation wall 10. Since the pair of first roller units 43 have substantially the same structure, this specification will mainly describe one first roller unit 43.

[0033] (First arm, first drive unit) The pair of first arms 41 are each hung approximately vertically from the first driving unit 42. The pair of first arms 41 are provided approximately parallel to each other with a gap in the front-rear direction (conveying direction). The first driving unit 42 raises and lowers the two pairs of first arms 41 as a whole, and moves them in the front-rear direction and the left-right direction (width direction perpendicular to the conveying direction). The first driving unit 42 also moves the pair of first arms 41 closer to each other and apart from each other. The first driving unit 42 is electrically connected to the control unit 36, and is driven and controlled by the control unit 36. Although details will be described later, when the first driving unit 42 lowers the pair of first arms 41 toward the temporarily assembled packaging box 1, the first foundation wall 10 relatively enters between the pair of first arms 41, and the pair of first arms 41 face each other with the first foundation wall 10 in between.

[0034] (First roller section) As shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, the first roller unit 43 has a pair of first outer rollers 44 and a first inner roller 45. The first outer roller 44 and the first inner roller 45 are formed in a substantially cylindrical shape (substantially disc-shaped). The pair of first outer rollers 44 are attached to the lower end of the outer first arm 41 of the pair of first arms 41 sandwiching the first foundation wall 10 via a first bracket 46. The pair of first outer rollers 44 are arranged side by side at an interval in the left-right direction (the horizontal direction along the third folding line L3) and are supported by the first bracket 46 so as to be rotatable around an axis. The first inner roller 45 is attached to the lower end of the inner first arm 41 of the pair of first arms 41 sandwiching the first foundation wall 10 via the first bracket 46. The first inner roller 45 is disposed so as to face the pair of first outer rollers 44 and is supported by the first bracket 46 so as to be rotatable around an axis.

[0035] <Second crease section> As shown in FIG. 1, the second creasing unit 50 has two pairs of second arms 51, a second driving unit 52, and a pair of second roller units 53. Since the two pairs of second arms 51 have substantially the same structure, this specification mainly describes a pair of second arms 51 provided corresponding to one second foundation wall 11. Since the pair of second roller units 53 have substantially the same structure, this specification mainly describes one second roller unit 53. Also, in FIG. 1, only the left second arm 51 and the left second roller unit 53 are illustrated. Since the second roller unit 53 and the like have substantially the same structure as the first roller unit 43 and the like, the second roller unit 53 and the like will be described with reference to FIG. 5 used to describe the first roller unit 43 and the like.

[0036] (2nd arm, 2nd drive unit) The pair of second arms 51 are each hung approximately vertically from the second driving unit 52. The pair of second arms 51 are provided approximately parallel to each other with a gap in the left-right direction. The second driving unit 52 raises and lowers the two pairs of second arms 51 as a whole, and moves them in the front-rear and left-right directions. The second driving unit 52 also moves the pair of second arms 51 closer to each other and apart from each other. The second driving unit 52 is electrically connected to the control unit 36, and is driven and controlled by the control unit 36. Although details will be described later, when the second driving unit 52 lowers the pair of second arms 51 toward the temporarily assembled packaging box 1, the second foundation wall 11 relatively enters between the pair of second arms 51, and the pair of second arms 51 face each other with the second foundation wall 11 in between.

[0037] (Second roller part) As shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, the second roller unit 53 has a pair of second outer rollers 54 and a second inner roller 55. The second outer roller 54 and the second inner roller 55 are formed in a substantially cylindrical shape (substantially disc-shaped). The pair of second outer rollers 54 are attached to the lower end of the outer second arm 51 of the pair of second arms 51 sandwiching the second foundation wall 11 via a second bracket 56. The pair of second outer rollers 54 are arranged side by side at an interval in the front-rear direction (the horizontal direction along the third folding line L3) and are supported by the second bracket 56 so as to be rotatable around an axis. The second inner roller 55 is attached to the lower end of the inner second arm 51 of the pair of second arms 51 sandwiching the second foundation wall 11 via the second bracket 56. The second inner roller 55 is disposed so as to face the pair of second outer rollers 54 and is supported by the second bracket 56 so as to be rotatable around an axis.

[0038] (Details of outer and inner rollers) The first roller unit 43 and the second roller unit 53 will be described in detail with reference to Figures 4 and 5. In this specification, when the first roller unit 43 and the second roller unit 53 are described collectively, they are sometimes simply referred to as "roller units 43, 53," when the first outer roller 44 and the second outer roller 54 are described collectively, they are sometimes simply referred to as "outer rollers 44, 54," and when the first inner roller 45 and the second inner roller 55 are described collectively, they are sometimes simply referred to as "inner rollers 45, 55."

[0039] The outer rollers 44, 54 and the inner rollers 45, 55 are made of metal such as carbon steel, and are all formed in the same shape. The outer rollers 44, 54 and the inner rollers 45, 55 are formed in a substantially circular plate shape with a diameter of 20 mm. The outer rollers 44, 54 and the inner rollers 45, 55 each have a portion that protrudes in a substantially trapezoidal shape toward the outside in the radial direction. The interval (center distance) between the pair of first outer rollers 44 and the interval (center distance) between the pair of second outer rollers 54 are each set to about 20 mm, which is the same as the diameter. The diameters of the outer rollers 44, 54 and the inner rollers 45, 55 are preferably set in the range of 5 mm to 60 mm. The interval between the pair of outer rollers 44, 54 may be changed according to the diameter of the pair of outer rollers 44, 54. The outer rollers 44, 54 and the inner rollers 45, 55 may also be set to different diameters.

[0040] The inner rollers 45, 55 are disposed so as to face the outer rollers 44, 54 at a position offset downward from the outer rollers 44, 54. Specifically, the inner rollers 45, 55 (center of thickness) are disposed at a position offset approximately 2 mm downward from the outer rollers 44, 54 (center of thickness). The offset between the inner rollers 45, 55 and the outer rollers 44, 54 may be set, for example, in the range of 0 mm to 6 mm (thickness of the protruding parts of the inner rollers 45, 55, etc.).

[0041] As shown in FIG. 4, the roller parts 43, 53 of the creasing part 31 sandwich the foundation walls 10, 11 of the cylindrical body 1W and move in the horizontal direction (see the thick arrow in FIG. 4) while rolling on both the front and back sides of the foundation walls 10, 11 to form the third fold line L3. The first roller part 43 forms the third fold line L3 in a pair of first foundation walls 10 facing each other in the front-back direction (first direction) when the cylindrical body 1W is viewed from above. The second roller part 53 forms the third fold line L3 in a pair of second foundation walls 11 facing each other in the left-right direction (second direction perpendicular to the first direction) when the cylindrical body 1W is viewed from above. The outer rollers 44, 54 rotate around their axes while their protruding parts are pressed against the surfaces of the foundation walls 10, 11. The inner rollers 45, 55 rotate around their axes while their protruding parts are pressed against the back sides of the foundation walls 10, 11. The inner rollers 45, 55 are arranged to contact the pair of outer rollers 44, 54 with the foundation walls 10, 11 in between. The third fold line L3 is a line that crushes (depresses) the foundation walls 10, 11 (corrugated cardboard sheets) in the thickness direction from the front and back surfaces. In detail, the depression in the back surface (back liner 9C) of the foundation walls 10, 11 is located slightly lower than the depression in the front surface (front liner 9B) of the foundation walls 10, 11.

[0042] Although details will be described later, the first foundation wall 10 is divided into a first side wall 15 and an upper inner flap 16 by the third fold line L3, and the second foundation wall 11 is divided into a second side wall 17 and an upper outer flap 18 by the third fold line L3 (see FIG. 10 described later). The pair of first side walls 15 and the pair of second side walls 17 are alternately connected via at least the first fold line L1. The pair of upper inner flaps 16 and the pair of upper outer flaps 18 are alternately connected via a break auxiliary line 22 (at least the first break line 23). In this specification, when the first side wall 15 and the second side wall 17 are collectively described, they are simply referred to as "side walls 15, 17", and when the upper inner flap 16 and the upper outer flap 18 are collectively described, they are simply referred to as "upper flaps 16, 18".

[0043] <Divided part> The dividing unit 32 makes cuts along the break assist lines 22 from the four corners of the top opening 1U of the temporarily assembled packaging box 1 to the cylindrical body 1W. As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 6, the dividing unit 32 has four dividing arms 61, a dividing drive unit 62, four blades 63, and eight guide rollers 64. Since the four dividing arms 61 and the four blades 63 are provided corresponding to the four corners of the top opening 1U, this specification mainly describes one dividing arm 61 and one blade 63 corresponding to one corner. Since the eight guide rollers 64 are provided corresponding to the four corners of the top opening 1U, this specification mainly describes two guide rollers 64 corresponding to one corner.

[0044] (Separating arm, separating drive unit) As shown in FIG. 1, the separation arm 61 is suspended substantially vertically from the separation drive unit 62. The four separation arms 61 are arranged to face the outsides of the four corners of the top opening 1U when viewed from above (see FIG. 6). The separation drive unit 62 raises and lowers the four separation arms 61 as a whole, and moves them in a direction (radial direction RD) along a line that bisects the corners (substantially right angles) of the cylindrical body 1W when viewed from above. The separation drive unit 62 is electrically connected to the control unit 36, and is driven and controlled by the control unit 36. The "radial direction RD" is a direction inclined at approximately 45 degrees with respect to the first foundation wall 10 and the second foundation wall 11 of the packaging box 1 (cylindrical body 1W) when viewed from above (see FIG. 6).

[0045] (blade) As shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, the blade 63 has one end fixed to the cutting arm 61. The blade 63 is made of a synthetic resin such as monomer cast nylon, and is formed in a generally rectangular plate shape with a thickness of about 5 mm. That is, the blade 63 is formed in a non-sharp plate shape. Here, the blade 63 being "non-sharp" refers to a state (mode) in which the blade 63 is blunt enough not to cut (move while cutting) a cardboard sheet (a material constituting the packaging box 1). The four blades 63 are inclined along the radial direction RD when viewed from above (see FIG. 6), and are provided in an inclined posture inclined downward from the outside to the inside of the cylindrical body 1W when viewed from the side (front and side) (see FIG. 7). That is, the four blades 63 are extended diagonally downward from the four cutting arms 61 toward the inside. At the tip side of the blade 63, a drawing assist surface 63A is formed as a substantially vertical surface by cutting off the upper corners (see FIG. 7). A tapered portion 63B that gradually becomes thinner toward the bottom end (packaging box 1) is formed at the bottom of blade 63 (see FIG. 7). The tip (bottom end) of tapered portion 63B is not sharp and has a slight thickness. Blade 63 is inclined so that tapered portion 63B faces downward (packaging box 1).

[0046] Although the details will be described later, the dividing unit 32 divides the upper flaps 16, 18 connected via the break assist line 22 along the break assist line 22 by lowering the blade 63 pressed against the corner of the top opening 1U of the cylindrical body 1W to the third fold line L3. In this specification, "break" means that something that is united is cut off, and specifically, the seams 23B, 24B of the break assist line 22 are destroyed (torn). "Separation" means that something that is united is cut and separated, and specifically, the cardboard sheet (the upper flaps 16, 18) is torn (torn) and divided. In other words, in this specification, "break" and "separation" do not mean that a sharp blade or the like cuts the cardboard sheet (moves while cutting), but means that a united thing is torn while being locally destroyed.

[0047] (Guide roller) As shown in Figs. 6 and 7, the two guide rollers 64 are attached to the lower part of the cutting arm 61 via a roller arm 65. The guide rollers 64 are supported by the roller arm 65 to be rotatable about their axes at a position lower than the blade 63. The guide rollers 64 are made of a synthetic resin such as monomer cast nylon, and are formed in a substantially cylindrical shape (substantially disc shape). The two guide rollers 64 are supported in a direction such that their rotation axes are perpendicular to each other. In the process of lowering the blade 63, the two guide rollers 64 rotate while contacting the surfaces of the upper flaps 16, 18 connected via the break assist line 22 (see Fig. 6).

[0048] <Folding part> The folding unit 33 folds inwardly along a third fold line L3 a pair of upper inner flaps 16 extending from upper ends of a pair of first side walls 15 opposing each other across the internal space of the packaging box 1. As shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 8, the folding unit 33 has a pair of folding arms 71, a folding drive unit 72, and a pair of folding contact units 73. Note that since the pair of folding arms 71 and the pair of folding contact units 73 each have a structure symmetrical in the front-rear direction, this specification will mainly describe one folding arm 71 and one folding contact unit 73.

[0049] (folding arm) The folding arms 71 are made of metal such as carbon steel and are formed in a long and narrow plate shape. As shown in Fig. 8, the pair of folding arms 71 extend radially outward from a pair of rotating shafts 71A provided in the folding drive unit 72. The folding arms 71 are provided so as to be rotatable about the rotating shafts 71A. The pair of folding arms 71 are arranged offset from each other in the left-right direction to prevent interference when they rotate toward each other.

[0050] (Folding drive unit) The folding drive unit 72 (see FIG. 1) raises and lowers the pair of folding arms 71, and rotates (swings) each of the folding arms 71 around a rotation shaft 71A. One (e.g., the front) folding arm 71 is fixed in the front-rear direction, and the folding drive unit 72 moves the other (e.g., the rear) folding arm 71 in the front-rear direction, thereby moving the pair of folding arms 71 closer to or farther apart. The folding drive unit 72 is electrically connected to the control unit 36, and is driven and controlled by the control unit 36.

[0051] (Fold-in contact part) As shown in FIG. 8, the folding contact portion 73 has a pushing piece portion 74 and a pushing roller 75.

[0052] (Pushing piece) The pushing piece 74 is provided at the radial tip of the folding arm 71 via a connecting bracket 76. The pushing piece 74 is made of metal such as carbon steel and is formed in a plate shape curved into a substantially U-shape. In detail, the pushing piece 74 has a base end curved portion 74C curved near the folding arm 71 and a tip end curved portion 74A curved at a free end side away from the folding arm 71, and is formed in a U-shape that bulges outward in the radial direction. In addition, a flat plate portion 74B formed in a flat plate shape is bridged between the base end curved portion 74C and the tip end curved portion 74A. The pair of pushing pieces 74 are shaped to curve upward while approaching each other when the pair of folding arms 71 are in a substantially vertical position (see FIG. 16 described later). The connecting bracket 76 can be regarded as a part of the folding arm 71, and is made of metal such as carbon steel and is formed in a substantially L-shape. Additionally, the connection bracket 76 supports the pushing piece 74 so that it protrudes in the left-right direction from the folding arm 71. For example, the front pushing piece 74 (connection bracket 76) protrudes to the right from the folding arm 71, and the rear pushing piece 74 (connection bracket 76) protrudes to the left from the folding arm 71. The pair of folding arms 71 and the pair of pushing pieces 74 are each positioned offset in the left-right direction so as not to interfere with each other when the pair of folding arms 71 are rotated so as to approach each other.

[0053] (Pushing roller) The pushing roller 75 is supported by the folding arm 71 at a position radially inwardly spaced from the pushing piece 74 so as to be rotatable about an axis. Specifically, the pushing roller 75 is provided on the folding arm 71 via a roller bracket 77 extending from the folding arm 71 along the rotation direction. The roller bracket 77 can be regarded as a part of the folding arm 71, and is formed in a flat plate shape from a metal such as carbon steel. The pair of roller brackets 77 are extended so as to approach each other when the pair of folding arms 71 are in a substantially vertical position (see FIG. 16 described later). The roller bracket 77 is, for example, perpendicular to the folding arm 71. The pushing roller 75 is, for example, made of synthetic resin or metal and formed in a cylindrical shape. The pushing roller 75 is attached to the tip of the roller bracket 77 so as to rotate about an axis. The pushing roller 75 is also supported so as to protrude from the roller bracket 77 in the left-right direction. For example, the front push roller 75 protrudes to the right from the roller bracket 77, and the rear push roller 75 protrudes to the left from the roller bracket 77. The pair of push rollers 75 are arranged offset in the left-right direction so as not to interfere with each other when the pair of folding arms 71 are rotated to approach each other.

[0054] Although details will be described later, the pushing piece 74 and the pushing roller 75 rotate together with the folding arm 71 around the rotating shaft 71A, contact the surface of the upper inner flap 16 of the packaging box 1, and fold (tilt) the upper inner flap 16 inward along the third fold line L3. As shown in Fig. 9, the pushing piece 74 and the pushing roller 75 move along circular orbits T1 and T2, respectively, centered on the rotating shaft 71A. The base end curved portion 74C of the pushing piece 74 moves along the circular orbit T1, which is the outermost end in the radial direction.

[0055] Here, in this specification, the radial distance between the pushing piece 74 and the pushing roller 75 is referred to as the "contact distance G." As shown in Fig. 9, the contact distance G is the difference between the rotation radius R1 of the circular orbit T1 on which the tip end (base end curved portion 74C) of the pushing piece 74 moves around the rotation axis 71A and the rotation radius R2 of the circular orbit T2 on which the axis (rotation center) of the pushing roller 75 moves around the rotation axis 71A. The contact distance G is set, for example, in a range that exceeds the length of the first breaking line 23 of the packaging box 1 (to be precise, the height (H0) of the foundation walls 10, 11 - the maximum height (H1) of the packaging box 1 (see Fig. 2)) and is equal to or smaller than the entire length of the breaking assistance line 22 (to be precise, the height (H0) - the minimum height (H2) of the packaging box 1 (see Fig. 2)). In other words, the contact gap G is set in a range exceeding the minimum value of the extension dimension of the upper flaps 16, 18 and not exceeding the maximum value of the extension dimension of the upper flaps 16, 18.

[0056] <Sealing Department> The sealing unit 34 folds inwardly along the third fold line L3 the pair of upper outer flaps 18 extending from the upper ends of the pair of second side walls 17 of the packaging box 1, thereby sealing the packaging box 1. As shown in Fig. 1, the sealing unit 34 has a pair of sealing arms 81, a sealing drive unit 82, an attaching unit 83, and an attaching drive unit 84. Note that only one (left) sealing arm 81 is shown in Fig. 1.

[0057] The pair of sealing arms 81 are provided so as to be able to advance and retreat (expand) diagonally downward from both outer sides toward the inside in the left-right direction. The sealing drive unit 82 is electrically connected to the control unit 36, and is driven and controlled by the control unit 36 ​​to advance and retreat the pair of sealing arms 81. The sealing arm 81 protrudes diagonally toward the upper outer flap 18 of the packaging box 1, contacts the surface of the upper outer flap 18, and folds (inclines) the upper outer flap 18 inward along the third fold line L3. The attachment unit 83 attaches the adhesive tape T so as to fix the pair of upper outer flaps 18 to each other. The attachment drive unit 84 is electrically connected to the control unit 36, and is driven and controlled by the control unit 36 ​​to drive the attachment unit 83.

[0058] <Conveyor> The conveyor 35 has a plurality of rollers (not shown) arranged in parallel in the conveying direction. Each roller is supported by a frame (not shown) so as to be rotatable around its axis. Each roller is connected to a driving source such as an electric motor via a drive transmission mechanism such as a gear or a belt (neither of which are shown). The packaging box 1 moves downstream in the conveying direction as each roller is driven to rotate around its axis. The conveyor 35 is also provided with a plurality of positioning and holding units (not shown) that hold the conveyed packaging box 1 at a predetermined position set so that the operations of the units 30 to 34 are properly performed. The driving source and the positioning and holding units are electrically connected to the control unit 36 ​​and are driven and controlled by the control unit 36.

[0059] <Control Unit> The control unit 36 ​​has a storage unit that stores programs, data, and the like, a calculation processing unit that executes calculation processing according to the programs, and a communication unit that is communicatively connected to each unit 30 to 34 and the conveyor 35. The storage unit, the calculation processing unit, and the communication unit are electrically connected to each other and configured to be able to communicate with each other. The storage unit includes a storage medium such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) or a RAM (Random Access Memory), and the calculation processing unit includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), for example. The control unit 36 ​​may include an operation terminal (not shown) for an operator to input various operations and check the output results from the control unit 36. In addition, the storage unit may store in advance data such as dimensions (length, width, height, etc.) and contact interval G of the temporarily assembled packaging box 1, as well as various other parameters required for control. In addition, the control unit may be realized by a logic circuit (hardware) formed in an integrated circuit or the like instead of a CPU.

[0060] As an example of the first driving unit 42, the second driving unit 52, the cutting driving unit 62, the folding driving unit 72, the sealing driving unit 82, and the pasting driving unit 84, actuators such as electric motors, servo motors, linear motors, solenoids, piston-cylinders, etc. may be used. The first driving unit 42, the second driving unit 52, the cutting driving unit 62, the folding driving unit 72, the sealing driving unit 82, and the pasting driving unit 84 may include a drive transmission mechanism such as a gear or pulley (belt) that transmits the power of the actuator to a driven object (not shown). The driving units 42, 52, 62, 72, 82, 84 and the control unit 36 ​​are connected to a power supply means (not shown).

[0061] [Packaging device operation] Next, the operation of the packaging device 2 (a method of sealing the packaging box 1) will be described with reference to Figs. 1, 4, 6, and 10 to 24. Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing the packaging box 1 on which the third fold line L3 corresponding to the maximum height (H1) is formed. Fig. 11 is a perspective view showing the packaging box 1 on which the third fold line L3 corresponding to the minimum height (H2) is formed. Fig. 12 is a side view explaining the dividing process. Fig. 13 is a side view showing a state in which the dividing process is completed. Fig. 14 is a plan view showing a state in which the dividing process is completed. Figs. 15 to 17 are side views showing the folding section 33 for explaining the folding method (folding process) of the upper inner flap 16 of the packaging box 1 (maximum height (H1)). Figs. 18 to 22 are side views showing the folding section 33 for explaining the folding method (folding process) of the upper inner flap 16 of the packaging box 1 (minimum height (H2)). Fig. 23 is a perspective view showing the packaging box 1 in a sealed state (maximum height (H1)). Fig. 24 is a perspective view showing the packaging box 1 in a sealed state (minimum height (H2)).

[0062] First, the worker places the contents 90 in the provisionally assembled packaging box 1, places it at the most upstream position of the conveyor 35, and operates the control unit 36 ​​to operate the packaging device 2.

[0063] <Height measurement process> The conveyor 35 transports the packaging box 1 to the height measurement unit 30, and the packaging box 1 is held (temporarily stopped) by the positioning and holding unit. As shown in FIG. 1, the height measurement unit 30 emits a laser beam from the laser light source 30A toward the contents 90 in the packaging box 1, and receives the reflected light reflected on the surface of the contents 90 by the light receiving element 30B (height measurement process). The light receiving data (measurement result of the height measurement unit 30) by the light receiving element 30B is transmitted to the control unit 36, and the control unit 36 ​​calculates the height (H3) of the contents 90 in the packaging box 1 based on the measurement result of the height measurement unit 30 (see FIG. 10 and FIG. 11). When a plurality of contents 90 with different heights are contained in the packaging box 1, the height (H3) of the tallest contents 90 is calculated as the height of the contents 90. The control unit 36 ​​also calculates the distance (H4) from the top of the cylindrical body 1W (foundation walls 10, 11) of the packaging box 1 to the top of the contents 90 (height (H0) of the foundation walls 10, 11 - height (H3) of the contents 90) (see Figs. 10 and 11), and calculates the movement amount of each arm 41, 51, 61, 71, 81 based on this distance (H4). The movement amount of each arm 41, 51, 61, 71, 81 is set to be slightly higher than the height (H3) of the contents 90 so that each roller unit 43, 53 and blade 63 do not interfere with the contents 90. The movement amount of each arm 41, 51, 61, 71, 81 may be calculated as, for example, the drive time of each drive unit 42, 52, 62, 72, 82 or the rotation angle of the output shaft. Further, the distance (H4) that is the basis of the amount of movement of each of the arms 41, 51, 61, 71, and 81 is approximate to the extension dimension of the upper flaps 16 and 18.

[0064] <Insertion process> After measuring the height of the contents 90, the creasing section 31 forms a third fold line L3 in the foundation walls 10, 11 of the cylindrical body 1W based on the measurement results of the height measuring section 30, and divides the foundation walls 10, 11 into side walls 15, 17 and upper flaps 16, 18 (crisping process).

[0065] Specifically, the conveyor 35 transports the packaging box 1 to the first creasing section 40, and the packaging box 1 is held by the positioning and holding section. The two pairs of first arms 41 (first roller section 43) of the first creasing section 40 are disposed, for example, above the right end of the pair of first foundation walls 10 of the packaging box 1 (see Figs. 1 and 4). The first driving section 42 of the first creasing section 40 lowers the two pairs of first arms 41 (first outer roller 44, first inner roller 45) by the calculated movement amount. The first foundation wall 10 of the packaging box 1 relatively enters between the pair of first arms 41 that are descending. Next, the first driving section 42 moves the pair of first arms 41 in a direction approaching each other, and the first foundation wall 10 is sandwiched between the pair of first outer roller 44 and first inner roller 45 (see Fig. 4). Next, the first driving unit 42 moves the pair of first arms 41 (first roller units 43) substantially horizontally from right to left (see the thick arrows in FIG. 4) while holding the first foundation wall 10 sandwiched between the pair of first outer rollers 44 and first inner rollers 45. As a result, a third fold line L3 that separates the first side wall 15 and the upper inner flap 16 is formed in the first foundation wall 10 (see FIGS. 10 and 11). After the third fold line L3 is formed, the first driving unit 42 returns (raises) the first arm 41 (first outer roller 44, first inner roller 45) to the initial position.

[0066] Next, the conveyor 35 transports the packaging box 1 to the second creasing section 50, and the packaging box 1 is held by the positioning and holding section. The two pairs of second arms 51 (second roller section 53) of the second creasing section 50 are disposed, for example, above the rear end (upstream end) of the pair of second foundation walls 11 of the packaging box 1 (see Figs. 1 and 4). The second driving section 52 of the second creasing section 50 lowers the two pairs of second arms 51 by the calculated movement amount. The second foundation wall 11 of the packaging box 1 relatively enters between the pair of lowering second arms 51. Next, the second driving section 52 moves the pair of second arms 51 in a direction approaching each other, and the second foundation wall 11 is sandwiched between the pair of second outer rollers 54 and second inner rollers 55 (see Fig. 4). Next, the second driving unit 52 moves the pair of second arms 51 (second roller units 53) substantially horizontally from rear to front (see the thick arrows in FIG. 4) while holding the second foundation wall 11 sandwiched between the pair of second outer rollers 54 and second inner rollers 55. As a result, a third fold line L3 that separates the second side wall 17 and the upper outer flap 18 is formed in the second foundation wall 11 (see FIGS. 10 and 11). After the third fold line L3 is formed, the second driving unit 52 returns (raises) the second arms 51 (second outer rollers 54, second inner rollers 55) to their initial positions.

[0067] In FIG. 10, the third fold line L3 is formed at approximately the same height as the boundary between the first break line 23 and the second break line 24, and corresponds to the maximum height (H1) of the packaging box 1 after sealing. In FIG. 11, the third fold line L3 is formed at approximately the same height as the boundary between the second break line 24 and the first fold line L1, and corresponds to the minimum height (H2) of the packaging box 1 after sealing. Not limited to these, the third fold line L3 may be formed horizontally (left-right and front-back directions) in a range from the upper end of the first fold line L1 to the lower end of the first fold line 23. In other words, the third fold line L3 may be formed so as to be perpendicular to the second break line 24. In addition, the third fold line L3 is formed in the foundation walls 10 and 11 in a range excluding the radii of the outer rollers 44 and 54 and the inner rollers 45 and 55 from both ends in the horizontal direction (folding portion 21). That is, there are small areas where the third fold line L3 is not formed near both ends in the lateral direction (left-right and front-back directions) of the foundation walls 10, 11. The area where the third fold line L3 is not formed becomes smaller as the diameter (radius) of the outer rollers 44, 54 and the inner rollers 45, 55 is made smaller.

[0068] <Cutting process> After forming the third fold line L3 in the foundation walls 10, 11, the dividing unit 32 makes cuts along the vertical ridge line of the cylindrical body 1W based on the measurement results of the height measuring unit 30, and separates the adjacent upper flaps 16, 18 from each other (dividing process).

[0069] Specifically, the conveyor 35 transports the packaging box 1 to the dividing section 32, and the packaging box 1 is held by the positioning holding section. The four dividing arms 61 of the dividing section 32 are disposed outside the four corners of the top opening 1U of the packaging box 1 when viewed from above (see FIG. 6). The dividing drive section 62 of the dividing section 32 lowers the four dividing arms 61 (blade 63, etc.) by the calculated movement amount. At this time, even if the blade 63 is slightly deviated from the corner of the top opening 1U, the blade 63 descends toward the breaking assistance line 22 while being guided (while sliding) by the notch 20 of the cylindrical body 1W (see FIG. 12). The blade 63 descending along the notch 20 bites into the cut 23A of the first breaking line 23 connected to the notch 20. A tapered portion 63B is formed at the lower side of the blade 63, which allows the blade 63 to easily bite into the cut 23A. The blade 63 descends to the position where the third fold line L3 is formed while breaking the joint 23B (24B) of the break assist line 22. The blade 63 is held in an inclined position and descends while sandwiching the upper flaps 16, 18 between the two guide rollers 64 (see Figures 6 and 12). The two guide rollers 64 support the upper flaps 16, 18 that are being cut by the blade 63 and attempting to open outward.

[0070] As shown in Fig. 13 and Fig. 14, the cutting unit 32 (cutting drive unit 62) lowers the blade 63 while holding it in an inclined position, and then moves the blade 63 substantially horizontally so as to pull it outward (in the radial direction RD) of the cylindrical body 1W while holding it in an inclined position. Since the blade 63 has a pull-out assist surface 63A that is substantially parallel to the broken fracture assist line 22, the amount of movement in the pull-out direction (outward in the radial direction RD) can be reduced compared to when the blade 63 is simply a rectangular plate. When the blade 63 is pulled outward from the cylindrical body 1W, the cutting drive unit 62 returns (raises) the cutting arm 61 (blade 63, etc.) to the initial position.

[0071] As described above, the blade 63 of the dividing section 32 descends from the corner of the top opening 1U of the cylindrical body 1W to the third fold line L3 (horizontal fold line), so that the upper flaps 16, 18 connected via the break assist line 22 are divided along the break assist line 22. Note that in Figs. 10, 12, and 13, the lower end position of the first break line 23 corresponds to the maximum height (H1) of the packaging box 1 after sealing, so the blade 63 always breaks at least the entire first break line 23 of the break assist lines 22 regardless of the height of the packaging box 1 (contents 90). When the height of the packaging box 1 (contents 90) is low (small), the blade 63 breaks a part or the entire second break line 24 in addition to the first break line 23. In the packaging box 1 having the minimum height (H2), the entire break assist line 22 is broken, so that the side walls 15, 17 are connected only to the first fold line L1 (see Figs. 11 and 24). On the other hand, in the packaging box 1 having a height other than the minimum height (H2), a part or all of the second break line 24 is left unbroken, so that the side walls 15, 17 are connected to the first fold line L1 at least to a part of the second break line 24 (see Figs. 10 and 23).

[0072] <Folding process> After the upper flaps 16, 18 are cut off, the conveyor 35 transports the packaging box 1 to the folding section 33, where the packaging box 1 is held by the positioning and holding section. The pair of folding arms 71 of the folding section 33 are in a horizontal position extending from a pair of rotating shafts 71A toward both sides in the front-rear direction, and are disposed above the packaging box 1 (see FIG. 1). The folding section 33 rotates the pair of folding arms 71 so as to sandwich the pair of upper inner flaps 16 from the outside in the front-rear direction, and folds the pair of upper inner flaps 16 inward along the third fold line L3 (horizontal fold line) (folding process). The folding method (folding process) of the upper inner flaps 16 using the packaging device 2 includes a folding process and a pushing process.

[0073] (Contact distance > extension dimension) First, a case where the packaging box 1 after sealing has a maximum height (H1), in other words, a case where the extension dimension of the upper flaps 16, 18 is minimum, will be described. As described above, the contact distance G between the pushing piece 74 and the pushing roller 75 exceeds the minimum value of the extension dimension of the upper flaps 16, 18, so that both the pushing piece 74 and the pushing roller 75 cannot contact the surface of the upper inner flap 16. Therefore, in the packaging device 2 according to this embodiment, when the contact distance G exceeds the extension dimension of the upper inner flap 16, in the process of folding the upper inner flap 16 inward, the folding drive unit 72 lowers the pair of folding arms 71 to a position where only the pushing piece 74 can contact the surface of the upper inner flap 16. When the folding arm 71 is rotated to an upright position extending substantially vertically (see FIG. 16), it is preferable that the folding arm 71 is lowered to a position where the upper inner flap 16 can be placed in a horizontal position with the base end curved portion 74C of the pushing piece portion 74 in contact with the surface of the upper inner flap 16. The amount of movement of the folding arm 71 is calculated by the control unit 36 ​​based on the amount of movement calculated in the height measurement process, data stored in advance in the storage unit, etc.

[0074] Next, the folding drive unit 72 rotates the pair of folding arms 71 downward in opposite directions so as to bring them closer to each other. As the folding arms 71 continue to rotate, as shown in Fig. 15, the curved tip portion 74A of the pushing piece 74 comes into contact with the surface of the upper inner flap 16, and the pushing roller 75 moves to a position above (inward in the radial direction) the upper inner flap 16. In other words, only the pushing piece 74 comes into contact with the surface of the upper inner flap 16, and the pushing roller 75 does not come into contact with the surface of the upper inner flap 16.

[0075] Next, as shown in FIG. 16, the folding arm 71 rotates until the upper inner flap 16 is in a horizontal position while only the pushing piece 74 contacts the surface of the upper inner flap 16 (folding process). As the folding arm 71 rotates and the upper inner flap 16 is folded, the pushing piece 74 moves the contact position with respect to the surface of the upper inner flap 16 from the tip curved portion 74A to the base curved portion 74C. In detail, the pushing piece 74 changes from a state where the tip curved portion 74A contacts and slides with the surface of the upper inner flap 16 to a state where the flat portion 74B contacts and slides with the base curved portion 74C, and then changes to a state where the base curved portion 74C contacts and slides with the surface of the upper inner flap 16. The folding arm 71 rotates from a lying position to an upright position extending substantially vertically, and the pushing piece 74 is in a state where the base curved portion 74C contacts the surface (upper surface) of the upper inner flap 16. Incidentally, "the upper inner flap 16 is in a horizontal position" does not mean that the upper inner flap 16 is required to be strictly horizontal, but means that a slight inclination is permitted.

[0076] Next, with the upper inner flap 16 in a horizontal position, as shown in Fig. 17, the folding drive unit 72 lowers the folding arm 71 with the base end curved portion 74C in contact with the surface of the upper inner flap 16, and pushes the upper inner flap 16 into the inside of the packaging box 1 (cylinder 1W) (pushing process). The pushing amount (lowering amount) of the folding arm 71 is adjusted to an extent that the upper inner flap 16 does not interfere with the contents 90. As a result, a strong crease is formed in the upper inner flap 16, so that the upper inner flap 16 becomes difficult to open due to the restoring force around the third fold line L3. After the pushing process, the folding drive unit 72 returns the pair of folding arms 71 to their initial positions (opens them apart from each other and raises them).

[0077] (Contact distance ≦ extension dimension) Next, a case where the packaging box 1 after sealing has the minimum height (H2), in other words, a case where the extension dimension of the upper flaps 16, 18 is maximum, will be described. Note that the same explanation as the case where the extension dimension of the upper flaps 16, 18 is minimum (contact distance G>extension dimension) will be omitted as appropriate.

[0078] In this case, since the contact distance G is smaller (shorter) than the maximum extension dimension of the upper flaps 16, 18, both the pushing piece 74 and the pushing roller 75 can contact the surface of the upper inner flap 16. Therefore, in the packaging device 2 according to this embodiment, when the contact distance G is equal to or smaller than the extension dimension of the upper inner flap 16, in the process of folding the upper inner flap 16 inward, the folding drive unit 72 lowers the pair of folding arms 71 to a position where the pushing piece 74 and the pushing roller 75 can contact the surface of the upper inner flap 16.

[0079] Next, the folding process is performed as described below. As shown in FIG. 18, when the folding drive unit 72 rotates the pair of folding arms 71 downward so as to approach each other, the pushing roller 75 comes into contact with the tip side (upper end) of the surface of the upper inner flap 16. The folding arm 71 rotates while only the pushing roller 75 is in contact with the surface of the upper inner flap 16, and pushes down (folds) the upper inner flap 16 inward. As the folding arm 71 rotates and the upper inner flap 16 is folded, the pushing roller 75 rotates around its axis. Here, the largest force is required at the beginning of folding the upper inner flap 16, so the pushing roller 75 is strongly pressed against the upper inner flap 16. In addition, since the pushing roller 75 comes into contact with the upper inner flap 16 that stands up almost vertically, it is in a state in which it is difficult for the pushing roller 75 to slide on the surface of the upper inner flap 16. However, since the pushing roller 75 can rotate about its axis, it can roll while being pressed against the surface of the upper inner flap 16. Then, the pushing roller 75 can fold the upper inner flap 16 along the third fold line L3 while rolling on the surface of the upper inner flap 16.

[0080] 19, after the pushing roller 75 comes into contact with the tip side of the surface of the upper inner flap 16, as the folding arm 71 rotates and the upper inner flap 16 folds, the tip curved portion 74A of the pushing piece 74 comes into contact with the surface of the upper inner flap 16 on the base end side (lower side) of the contact position of the pushing roller 75. In other words, both the pushing piece 74 (tip curved portion 74A) and the pushing roller 75 are in contact with the surface of the upper inner flap 16. The folding arm 71 rotates while keeping the pushing roller 75 and the pushing piece 74 (tip curved portion 74A) in contact with the surface of the upper inner flap 16, and the folding of the upper inner flap 16 proceeds.

[0081] As shown in Fig. 20, as the folding arm 71 rotates and the upper inner flap 16 is folded, the pushing roller 75 moves away from the surface of the upper inner flap 16. As shown in Figs. 20 and 21, the folding arm 71 rotates until the upper inner flap 16 is in a horizontal position while keeping only the pushing piece 74 in contact with the surface of the upper inner flap 16. At this time, the pushing piece 74 moves the contact position with respect to the surface of the upper inner flap 16 from the tip curved portion 74A to the base curved portion 74C via the flat portion 74B. The folding arm 71 moves from the recumbent position to the upright position, and the pushing piece 74 keeps the base curved portion 74C in contact with the surface of the upper inner flap 16 (see Fig. 21).

[0082] 22, in a state where the upper inner flap 16 is in a horizontal position, the folding drive unit 72 lowers the folding arms 71 and pushes the upper inner flap 16 into the inside of the packaging box 1 (pushing process). After the pushing process, the folding drive unit 72 returns the pair of folding arms 71 to their initial positions.

[0083] In order to bring the pushing roller 75 and the pushing piece 74 into contact with the surface of the upper inner flap 16, the upper inner flap 16 does not need to be at its maximum extension dimension, and the contact distance G may be equal to or less than the extension dimension of the upper inner flap 16. The pair of folding arms 71 may start rotating at the same time, or at different times (with a time difference). That is, the pair of folding arms 71 may rotate synchronously to the same angle (front-to-back symmetrical), or may rotate asynchronously to different angles (front-to-back asymmetrical). In other words, the pair of upper inner flaps 16 may be folded at the same time, or one upper inner flap 16 may be folded and then the other upper inner flap 16 may be folded. When the packaging box 1 after sealing reaches the minimum height (H2), the leading ends of the pair of upper inner flaps 16 overlap each other, so it is preferable that the pair of folding arms 71 rotate at different times.

[0084] <Sealing process> After folding the pair of upper inner flaps 16, the conveyor 35 transports the packaging box 1 to the sealing section 34, where the packaging box 1 is held by the positioning and holding section. The sealing section 34 seals the packaging box 1 (sealing process). The sealing drive section 82 of the sealing section 34 extends one sealing arm 81 to fold one upper outer flap 18 along the third fold line L3, and then extends the other sealing arm 81 to fold the other upper outer flap 18 along the third fold line L3 (see FIG. 1). Here, when the packaging box 1 after sealing reaches the maximum height (H1), the pair of upper outer flaps 18 separated along the first break line 23 will butt their tips together (see FIG. 23). On the other hand, in the packaging box 1 having a height other than the maximum height (H2) (for example, the minimum height (H2)), the leading ends of the pair of upper outer flaps 18 overlap each other (see FIG. 24). After folding the upper outer flaps 18, the sealing drive unit 82 pulls the sealing arm 81 back to the initial position.

[0085] Next, the application section 83 (application drive section 84) of the sealing unit 34 applies adhesive tape T along the butt joint of a pair of upper outer flaps 18 (see Figure 23), or applies adhesive tape T along the tip of the other upper outer flap 18 (see Figure 24).

[0086] As a result of the above, the top opening 1U of the cylindrical body 1W is closed, and the packaging box 1 is sealed (see Figs. 23 and 24).

[0087] In the packaging device 2 according to the present embodiment described above, the pushing piece 74 and the pushing roller 75 are attached to the folding arm 71 at a radial distance from each other. When the contact interval G between the pushing piece 74 and the pushing roller 75 is equal to or less than the extension dimension (≈distance (H4)) of the upper inner flap 16, the pushing roller 75 comes into contact with the tip side of the upper inner flap 16, and then the pushing piece 74 comes into contact with the base end side of the upper inner flap 16, and the folding arm 71 is rotated in a state in which the pushing roller 75 and the pushing piece 74 are in contact with the upper inner flap 16. With this configuration, the pushing roller 75 can apply a force (torque) required for folding to the upper inner flap 16, and then the pushing piece 74 can press a position close to the third fold line L3 of the upper inner flap 16 to stabilize the folding of the upper inner flap 16. As a result, even if the extension dimension of the upper inner flap 16 is large or the width of the first side wall 15 (upper inner flap 16) is large, the upper inner flap 16 can be properly folded along the third fold line L3 without causing a dent (deformation) in the first side wall 15. In addition, since the pressing roller 75 can roll on the surface of the upper inner flap 16, it will not, for example, get caught on the surface of the upper inner flap 16 and apply excessive force to the upper inner flap 16. As a result, the upper inner flap 16 can start to be folded down smoothly.

[0088] Furthermore, in the packaging device 2 according to this embodiment, the pushing piece 74 is formed in a U-shape having two curved portions 74A and 74C, and as the folding arm 71 rotates and the upper inner flap 16 folds, the pushing piece 74 moves its contact position with the upper inner flap 16 from the distal curved portion 74A to the proximal curved portion 74C. With this configuration, the pushing piece 74, which moves in a rotational orbit around the rotation shaft 71A, can be kept in contact with the surface of the upper inner flap 16. The pushing piece 74, which slides on the surface of the upper inner flap 16, can reliably fold the upper inner flap 16.

[0089] In addition, in the packaging device 2 (the folding method of the upper inner flap 16) according to the present embodiment, the folding drive unit 72 lowers the folding arm 71 to push the upper inner flap 16 into the inside of the packaging box 1. With this configuration, the crease (fold crease) can be made strong at the third folding line L3, so that the folded upper inner flap 16 can be prevented from opening due to the restoring force around the third folding line L3. This can prevent the upper outer flap 18 from interfering with the upper inner flap 16 and becoming unable to be folded when folding the upper outer flap 18 so as to overlap the upper inner flap 16. In addition, since the upper inner flap 16 that has entered the inside of the packaging box 1 supports the pair of second side walls 17 from the inside, the second side walls 17 are less likely to be recessed inward, and the upper outer flap 18 can also be folded properly along the third folding line L3.

[0090] Furthermore, according to the packaging device 2 of this embodiment, the height of the packaging box 1 (side walls 15, 17), in other words, the extension dimension of the upper flaps 16, 18, can be changed according to the height of the contents 90. For example, even if the extension dimension of the upper inner flap 16 is long and the first side wall 15 is likely to be indented inward (easily deformed), the upper inner flap 16 can be properly folded by rotating the folding arm 71 while the pushing roller 75 and the pushing piece 74 are in contact with the upper inner flap 16. Furthermore, if the extension dimension of the upper inner flap 16 is short and there is no risk of the first side wall 15 being deformed, the upper inner flap 16 can be properly folded by rotating the folding arm 71 while only the pushing piece 74 is in contact with the upper inner flap 16.

[0091] In the packaging box 1 according to the present embodiment, the tear assist line 22 is a so-called perforation, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the tear assist line 22 may be a zipper with a series of spaced, bent cuts, or a half-cut line that cuts about halfway down the thickness from the back surface of the cardboard sheet (neither is shown).

[0092] In addition, in the packaging box 1 according to the present embodiment, the cut 24A of the second break line 24 is shorter than the cut 23A of the first break line 23, and the seam 24B of the second break line 24 is longer than the seam 23B of the first break line 23 so that the second break line 24 is more difficult to break than the first break line 23, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the cut 23A and the cut 24A may be the same length, and the seam 24B of the second break line 24 may be longer than the seam 23B of the first break line 23 (not shown). Also, for example, the seam 23B and the seam 24B may be the same length, and the cut 24A of the second break line 24 may be shorter than the cut 23A of the first break line 23 (not shown).

[0093] In addition, in the packaging box 1 according to the present embodiment, the break assist line 22 has the first break line 23 and the second break line 24, and the second break line 24 is set to be more difficult to break than the first break line 23, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the break assist line 22 may be formed so that the ease of breaking is approximately constant throughout (not shown). In addition, the cut 23A formed at the top of the break assist line 22 (first break line 23) is connected to the bottom of the cutout portion 20, but this is not limited thereto, and may be separated from the bottom of the cutout portion 20 (not shown).

[0094] In addition, in the packaging box 1 according to the present embodiment, the cutout portion 20 is recessed in a substantially V-shape, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the cutout portion 20 may be recessed in a substantially U-shape or a substantially rectangular shape (not shown). Also, the cutout portion 20 may be omitted (not shown).

[0095] In addition, in the packaging box 1 according to the present embodiment, the lower inner flap 13 and the lower outer flap 14 are folded to form the bottom, and the tips of the pair of lower outer flaps 14 are butted together, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the tips of the pair of lower outer flaps 14 may be spaced apart (not shown). Also, for example, the bottom of the packaging box 1 may be a so-called one-touch bottom or a so-called insular bottom (not shown).

[0096] In addition, in the packaging box 1 according to the present embodiment, the upper portion of the vertical ridge line of the cylindrical body 1W is weakened by the break assist line 22, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the break assist line 22 may be omitted, and the fold portion 21 may be formed only by the first fold line L1 (not shown). In other words, the vertical ridge line of the cylindrical body 1W (the boundary between the first foundation wall 10 and the second foundation wall 11) may be considered to be weakened by folding at the first fold line L1.

[0097] In addition, in the packaging box 1 according to the present embodiment, the break assist line 22 is formed slightly longer in the row direction than the first fold line L1, and the first break line 23 and the second break line 24 are formed to have approximately the same length in the row direction, but the present invention is not limited to this. The length of the break assist line 22 (the first break line 23, the second break line 24) and the first fold line L1 may be freely changed (not shown) in consideration of, for example, the minimum or maximum extension dimension of the upper flaps 16, 18.

[0098] In the packaging device 2 according to the present embodiment, the second creasing unit 50 is disposed downstream of the first creasing unit 40, but this is not limiting and the second creasing unit 50 may be disposed upstream of the first creasing unit 40 (not shown). That is, in the creasing step, the third fold line L3 may be formed in the first foundation wall 10 after the third fold line L3 is formed in the second foundation wall 11. Also, the creasing unit 31 may be configured to integrally form the first creasing unit 40 and the second creasing unit 50 to form the third fold line L3 on the four side surfaces of the cylindrical body 1W at the same time (not shown).

[0099] In addition, in the packaging device 2 according to the present embodiment, one inner roller 45, 55 of the creasing section 31 is configured to face between the pair of outer rollers 44, 54, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the outer rollers 44, 54 may be combined into one, and one inner roller 45, 55 and one outer roller 44, 54 may face each other (not shown). For example, the inner rollers 45, 55 may be paired, and the pair of outer rollers 44, 54 and the pair of inner rollers 45, 55 may face each other (not shown). For example, the outer rollers 44, 54 may be combined into one, the inner rollers 45, 55 may be paired, and one outer roller 44, 54 may face between the pair of inner rollers 45, 55 (not shown).

[0100] In addition, in the packaging device 2 according to the present embodiment, the inner rollers 45, 55 are slightly shifted downward from the outer rollers 44, 54, but the present invention is not limited to this. The inner rollers 45, 55 may be disposed to face the outer rollers 44, 54 at the same height (not shown).

[0101] In addition, in the packaging device 2 (creasing unit 31) according to the present embodiment, the third fold line L3 is formed so as to be perpendicular to the second break line 24 in a range from the upper end of the first fold line L1 or more to the lower end of the first break line 23 or less, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the third fold line L3 may be formed horizontally (in the left-right direction and the front-back direction) in a range from the upper end of the first fold line L1 or more to the upper end of the first break line 23 or more (not shown). In other words, the third fold line L3 may be formed so as to be perpendicular to the first break line 23. In this case, the tips of the pair of upper outer flaps 18 are separated from each other (not shown).

[0102] In addition, in the packaging device 2 according to the present embodiment, the blades 63 of the dividing section 32 are inclined, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the four blades 63 may be in a position perpendicular to the first foundation wall 10 or perpendicular to the second foundation wall 11 when viewed from above (not shown). Also, for example, the blades 63 may be in a substantially horizontal position when viewed from the side (front and side) (not shown).

[0103] In addition, in the packaging device 2 according to the present embodiment, the tapered portion 63B is formed on the lower side of the blade 63 of the dividing section 32, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a pair of tapered portions 63B may be formed on both upper and lower sides of the blade 63 (not shown). With this, when the lower tapered portion 63B becomes worn, the blade 63 can be turned upside down so that the upper tapered portion 63B faces downward, eliminating the need to replace the blade 63 with a new one. Also, the tapered portion 63B may be omitted, and the blade 63 may be formed in a plate shape of approximately uniform thickness (not shown).

[0104] In addition, in the packaging device 2 according to the present embodiment, the pulling assist surface 63A is formed on the blade 63 of the dividing section 32, but this is not limiting, and the pulling assist surface 63A may be omitted (not shown). Also, the guide roller 64 of the dividing section 32 may be omitted.

[0105] In addition, in the packaging device 2 according to the present embodiment, the folding unit 33 is provided to fold the pair of upper inner flaps 16, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when sealing the packaging box 1, if the pair of upper outer flaps 18 is folded first and then the pair of upper inner flaps 16 is folded, the folding unit 33 may be provided to fold the pair of upper outer flaps 18 (not shown).

[0106] Furthermore, in the packaging device 2 according to the present embodiment, when the extension dimension of the upper flaps 16, 18 is at its maximum, both the pushing piece 74 and the pushing roller 75 are in contact with the surface of the upper inner flap 16 while folding the upper inner flap 16, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the contact interval G between the pushing piece 74 and the pushing roller 75 may be adjusted (changed) so that even when the extension dimension of the upper flaps 16, 18 is at its minimum, the upper inner flap 16 is folded while both the pushing piece 74 and the pushing roller 75 are in contact with the surface of the upper inner flap 16 (not shown).

[0107] In addition, in the packaging device 2 according to the present embodiment, the contact gap G between the pushing piece 74 and the pushing roller 75 cannot be changed, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, an actuator for changing the contact gap G between the pushing piece 74 and the pushing roller 75 may be provided, and the contact gap G between the pushing piece 74 and the pushing roller 75 may be changed according to the extension dimension of the upper flaps 16, 18 (not shown). According to this configuration, both the pushing piece 74 and the pushing roller 75 come into contact with the surface of the upper inner flap 16, regardless of the extension dimension of the upper flaps 16, 18.

[0108] In addition, in the packaging device 2 according to the present embodiment, the sealing unit 34 seals the packaging box 1 using the adhesive tape T, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a pair of upper outer flaps 18 may be adhered to a pair of upper inner flaps 16 via an adhesive, or the other upper outer flap 18 may be adhered to one upper outer flap 18 via an adhesive (not shown).

[0109] In addition, in the packaging device 2 according to the present embodiment, the height measuring unit 30, the creasing unit 31, the dividing unit 32, the folding unit 33, and the sealing unit 34 are fixedly provided, and the packaging box 1 is transported by the conveyor 35, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, a packaging device according to a modified example may omit the conveyor 35, and the packaging box 1 may be fixedly arranged (not moved), and may include a moving mechanism unit that moves each of the units 30 to 34 (not shown). That is, in the packaging device according to the modified example, a fixed base (not shown) for fixing the packaging box 1 may be provided, and the moving mechanism unit may intermittently move each of the units 30 to 34 onto the packaging box 1 fixed to the fixed base.

[0110] For the sake of convenience, the packaging device 2 according to this embodiment (including modified examples; the same applies below) has been described as performing packaging work on packaging boxes 1 of one size (width, depth, height (footprint)), but the packaging device 2 according to this embodiment can also perform packaging work on packaging boxes 1 of two or more sizes (footprints). In this case, the height measuring unit 30 measures the height of the contents 90 and also measures the size of the packaging box 1, and the various drive units 42, 52, 62, 72, 82, 84 adjust the front-rear and left-right positions of the various arms 41, 51, 61, 71, 81 based on the measurement results.

[0111] In addition, in the packaging device 2 according to the present embodiment, the height measuring unit 30, the creasing unit 31, and the dividing unit 32 are provided, and the height of the packaging box 1 is changed according to the height of the contents 90, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the packaging device may be a packaging device that packages the contents 90 in a general A-type packaging box (not shown) with the top flaps 16, 18 formed therein, and this packaging device may be provided with the folding unit 33 and the sealing unit 34, and the height measuring unit 30, the creasing unit 31, and the dividing unit 32 may be omitted (not shown). In addition, for example, when an operator performs a sealing operation manually, such as closing the top flaps 16, 18 and attaching an adhesive tape T, the sealing unit 34 may be omitted (not shown).

[0112] In addition, the packaging box 1 according to the present embodiment is formed from a double-sided corrugated cardboard sheet made of paper, but the present invention is not limited to this. The packaging box 1 may be formed from a foldable material such as single-sided corrugated cardboard, double-sided corrugated cardboard, triple-double-sided corrugated cardboard, single paper (cardboard), or a synthetic resin plate material.

[0113] The above embodiment is merely an example of the packaging device and the method for folding flaps according to the present invention, and the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment. The present invention may be modified, substituted, or altered in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the technical concept, and the claims include all embodiments that may be included within the scope of the technical concept. [Explanation of symbols]

[0114] 1 packaging box 1W cylinder 2 Packaging equipment 10 1st foundation wall (wall part) 11 2nd foundation wall (wall part) 15 First side wall (side wall) 16 Upper inner flap (flap) 30 Height measurement unit 31 Crease section 32 Divided part 33 Folding section 71 Folding Arm 71A Rotating shaft 72 Folding drive unit 74 Push piece part 74A Tip curve 74C Base curve 75 Push Roller 90 Contents L3 3rd fold line (horizontal fold line) G Contact distance R1, R2 turning radius T1,T2 circular orbit

Claims

1. A packaging device (2) for packaging an item (90) in a packaging box (1), comprising: a folding portion (33) for folding inwardly a pair of flaps (16) extending from upper ends of a pair of side walls (15) opposing each other across the internal space of the packaging box along a horizontal fold line (L3); The folding portion is A pair of folding arms (71) extending radially outward from a pair of pivot shafts (71A) and rotatably provided around the pivot shafts; A pair of pushing pieces (74) provided at the radial tip portions of the pair of folding arms; A pair of pushing rollers (75) supported rotatably around an axis by the pair of folding arms at a position spaced radially inward from the pair of pushing pieces, a contact interval (G) between the rotation radius (R1) of a circular orbit (T1) on which the most distal end of the pushing piece moves, centered on the rotation axis, and the rotation radius (R2) of a circular orbit (T2) on which the axis of the pushing roller moves, centered on the rotation axis, is equal to or less than the extension dimension of the flap, and in the process of folding the flaps inward by the pair of folding arms rotating to sandwich the pair of flaps from the outside, after the pushing roller contacts the tip side of the surface of the flap, the pushing piece contacts the surface of the flap on the base end side of the contact position of the pushing roller, and the folding arms rotate while keeping the pushing roller and the pushing piece in contact with the surface of the flap, and as the folding arms rotate and the flap is folded, the pushing roller moves away from the surface of the flap, and the folding arms rotate while keeping only the pushing piece in contact with the surface of the flap until the flap is in a horizontal position.

2. The pushing piece portion has a base end curved portion (74C) curved near the folding arm and a tip end curved portion (74A) curved on a free end side away from the folding arm, and is formed into a U-shape that bulges outward in the radial direction, The packaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that as the folding arm rotates and the flap is folded, the pushing piece portion moves the contact position with respect to the surface of the flap from the tip curved portion to the base curved portion.

3. The folding unit further includes a folding drive unit (72) that raises and lowers the folding arm, The packaging device according to claim 2, characterized in that, with the flap in the horizontal position, the folding drive unit lowers the folding arm with the base end curved portion in contact with the surface of the flap, thereby pushing the flap into the interior of the packaging box.

4. A height measuring unit (30) for measuring the height of the contents contained inside the cylindrical body (1W) of the packaging box whose bottom is closed; a scoring section (31) for forming the horizontal fold lines in the wall sections (10, 11) of the cylindrical body based on the measurement results of the height measuring section and dividing the wall sections into the side walls (15, 17) and the flaps (16, 18); A dividing portion (32) is provided along a longitudinal ridge of the cylindrical body to separate adjacent flaps, A packaging device as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that when the contact distance exceeds the extension dimension of the flap, in the process of the pair of folding arms rotating to pinch the pair of flaps from the outside and folding the flaps inward, the folding arms rotate until the flaps are in a horizontal position while keeping only the pushing piece portion in contact with the surface of the flap.

5. A method for folding the flaps using the packaging device according to claim 3, a folding process in which, in the process of folding the flap inward, the pushing roller is brought into contact with the surface of the flap, and then the pushing piece portion is brought into contact with the surface of the flap, and the folding arm is rotated while the pushing roller and the pushing piece portion are brought into contact with the surface of the flap, and as the folding arm is rotated and the flap is folded, the pushing roller is separated from the surface of the flap, and the folding arm is rotated while only the pushing piece portion is brought into contact with the surface of the flap, so that the flap is in the horizontal position; and a pushing step of lowering the folding arm, with the base end curved portion in contact with the surface of the flap in the horizontal position, by the folding drive unit, and pushing the flap into the inside of the packaging box.

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