ASSEMBLY AND METHOD FOR HANDLING A STRING OF CONTINUOUS PHARMACEUTICAL POUCHES - Patent application

Abstract

The present invention relates to an assembly (1) for handling a string of pharmaceutical pouches (9), the assembly (1) comprising a packaging device for packaging divided pharmaceuticals in respective pharmaceutical pouches and a winding device (3) for winding said string onto a reel (4), the assembly further comprising a control unit (5) operatively connected to the packaging device (2) and to the winding device (5), the control unit being arranged to receive one or more packaging status signals from the packaging device (2) and to send one or more winding control signals to the winding device (3) in response to said one or more packaging status signals and / or to receive one or more winding status signals from the winding device (3) and to send one or more packaging control signals to the packaging device (2) in response to said one or more winding status signals.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an assembly for handling a continuous string of pharmaceutical pouches.The present invention further relates to a method for handling a continuous string of pharmaceutical pouches using the assembly. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0002] It is an object of the present invention to provide an assembly and method for handling a string of continuous pharmaceutical pouches that allows for improved handling of the string of continuous pharmaceutical pouches. [Means for solving the problem]

[0003] According to a first aspect, there is provided an assembly for handling a continuous string of pharmaceutical pouches, the assembly comprising a packaging device for packaging a divided pharmaceutical product in each pharmaceutical pouch of the string, a winding device for receiving the string from the packaging device and winding the string onto a reel, and a control unit operatively connected to the packaging device and the winding device, the control unit comprising: receiving one or more packaging status signals from the packaging device and transmitting one or more winding control signals to the winding device in response to the one or more packaging status signals; and / or and a control unit arranged to receive one or more winding status signals from the winding device and, in response to the one or more winding status signals, transmit one or more packaging control signals to the packaging device.

[0004] In other words, the control unit is operatively, electronically and / or functionally connected to provide a form of communication between the winding device and the packaging device. This can be wired or wireless communication depending on the system. Thus, in response to a detected state of the packaging device, the control unit can control the winding device to take appropriate action, and vice versa. The transport of the string through the packaging unit can be interrupted, for example, when a fault is detected in the winding device, to prevent a very long string from accumulating between the packaging device and the winding device. Moreover, the winding of the string of successive pharmaceutical pouches onto the reel can be automatically adapted to the output of said string from the packaging device. Similarly, the output of the string of successive pharmaceutical pouches in the packaging device can be automatically adapted to the winding of said string onto the reel. Hence, the string can be handled more reliably and / or excessive forces that may break or damage the string can be prevented.

[0005] The control unit determines, based on the one or more winding state signals, one or more of the following: errors in the transport of the string between the wrapping device and the winding device; the difference between the output speed of the string at the packaging output of the packaging device and the winding speed of the string on the reel; The reel is fully loaded, and / or The device is further arranged to determine a winding condition, indicative of a fault in the winding device.

[0006] For example, the control unit may be arranged to determine a first winding state based on one or more winding state signals, the first winding state indicating an error in the transfer of the string between the packaging output and the reel. In particular, the first winding state may indicate that the string is not properly connected to the reel or is not at all in the winding device. In the case of said first winding state, while the packaging device should continue to output the string of pharmaceutical pouches, said string should not be wound around the reel. As a result, a length of string should be output on the floor, creating an unmanageable tangle. Moreover, the string may be damaged in the process. The control unit may detect this condition so that appropriate actions may be taken and / or instructed by the control unit.

[0007] Additionally or alternatively, the control unit may be arranged to determine a second winding state based on the one or more winding state signals, the second winding state indicating that the winding speed at the reel is faster than the output speed of the string at the packaging output. Such a speed difference may cause the string to stretch and ultimately break or burst. The control unit may detect this condition so that appropriate action may be taken and / or directed by the control unit.

[0008] Additionally or alternatively, the control unit may be arranged to determine a third winding state based on the one or more winding state signals, the third winding state indicating that the winding speed at the reel is slower than the output speed of the string at the packaging output. In said third winding state, the tension in the string is reduced. In particular, the string may sag, which may eventually cause the string to be output on the factory floor. This may result in damage to the string of pharmaceutical pouches. The control unit may detect this condition so that appropriate action may be taken and / or instructed by the control unit.

[0009] Additionally or alternatively, the control unit may be arranged to determine a fourth winding state based on the one or more winding state signals, the fourth winding state indicating that the reel is full. When the reel is full, the string should be cut and the resulting end of the string should be coupled to a further reel. The full reel can then be replaced with an empty reel. The control unit may detect this condition so that appropriate action may be taken and / or instructed by the control unit.

[0010] Additionally or alternatively, the winding device may be arranged to determine a fifth winding state based on the one or more winding state signals, the fifth winding state being indicative of a fault in the winding device, the control unit being able to detect a fault or error in the winding device so that appropriate action can be taken and / or instructed by the control unit.

[0011] In that embodiment, the control unit responds to the detected winding condition by issuing one or more of the following commands: stopping the transport of the string by the wrapping device; Increasing the output speed of the strings at the packaging output; and / or The wrapping device is programmed to generate wrapping control signals that include reducing the output speed of the strings at the wrapping output.

[0012] For example, the control unit may be arranged to send a first packaging control signal to the packaging device in response to determining the first winding state, the first packaging control signal including an instruction to stop transport of the string by the packaging device. The first packaging control signal generated by the control unit may control the packaging device to take appropriate action, for example by ceasing transport of the string by the packaging device. Thus, the aforementioned drawbacks may be avoided.

[0013] Additionally or alternatively, the control unit may be arranged to send a second packaging control signal to the packaging device in response to determining the fourth winding state, the second packaging control signal including an instruction to stop transport of the string by the packaging device. The control unit may further send a winding feedback signal to the winding device to stop winding of the string onto the reel. Thus, transport of the string may automatically pause when the reel is full. This may enable an operator or a further device to replace the full reel and couple the string to a further reel.

[0014] In a further embodiment thereof, the control unit is further programmed to generate a winding feedback signal back to the winding device in response to the detected winding condition.

[0015] In a further embodiment thereof, the winding feedback signal is one or more of the following commands: stopping the winding of the string by the winding device; Increasing the winding speed of the string on the reel; Reducing the winding speed of the string on the reel, and / or This involves reversing the winding direction of the reel.

[0016] For example, the control unit may be arranged to send a first winding feedback signal or a further winding control signal to the winding device in response to determining the second winding state, the first winding feedback signal or the further winding control signal including an instruction to the winding device to reduce the winding speed at the reel, such that the control unit can automatically take appropriate action to prevent breakage or rupture of the string.

[0017] Additionally or alternatively, the control unit may be arranged to send a second winding feedback signal or a further winding control signal to the winding device in response to determining the third winding state, the second winding feedback signal or the further control signal including an instruction to the winding device to increase the winding speed at the reel. Thus, the control unit can automatically take appropriate action upon detecting a reduction in tension on the string.

[0018] Additionally or alternatively, the control unit may be arranged to send a third winding feedback signal or a further winding control signal to the winding device in response to determining the fifth winding state, the third winding feedback signal or the further winding control signal including an instruction to drive the reel in rotation in a direction opposite to the winding direction for a predetermined time interval. In other words, the string is at least partially unwound from the reel. Hence, the tension on the string can be reduced. Unwinding the string may allow an operator to access the winding device. Moreover, reducing the tension on the string may increase the safety of the operator. Additionally, the string may be prevented from breaking.

[0019] In a further embodiment, the winding device includes one or more sensors operably connected to the control unit for detecting the presence or absence of the string of consecutive pharmaceutical pouches. The one or more sensors can detect the presence or absence of the string at respective locations along the string trajectory. Detection of the presence or absence of the string by one of the one or more sensors can act as a winding status signal. The control unit can be arranged to detect the presence of the string in the winding device based on said winding status signal. Thus, the control unit can detect a winding status, such as one of the exemplary winding statuses as described above, and in response thereto can send a packaging control signal to the packaging device.

[0020] In that embodiment, the winding device includes a dancer roller that defines at least a portion of the string trajectory between the packaging output and the reel, the dancer roller is movable between a first position and a second position, the dancer roller is biased toward the first position, the dancer roller is arranged to be displaced toward the second position under the influence of the passing string, and the one or more sensors include a dancer roller sensor or a first sensor arranged to detect the presence of the dancer roller in at least one of the first position and the second position. The dancer roller sensor may be, for example, a proximity sensor. In other words, the control unit can conveniently detect the absence of the string in the winding device based on the position of the dancer roller.

[0021] For example, the control unit may be arranged to determine a first winding state when the dancer roller sensor detects that the dancer roller is in a first position.

[0022] In a further embodiment, the one or more sensors include a second sensor positioned to detect the presence or absence of a string along the desired string trajectory. The second sensor may be, for example, an optical sensor. The sensor along the desired string trajectory may advantageously detect the absence of a string and / or deviation of the string's path from the desired trajectory.

[0023] For example, the control unit may be arranged to determine the first winding state when an absence of the string is detected by the second sensor.

[0024] Additionally or alternatively, the control unit may be arranged to determine a second winding state when the second sensor detects the absence of the string and the dancer roller sensor detects the absence of the dancer roller in its first position. In other words, an increase in string tension due to a winding speed of the string at the reel being faster than an output speed of the string at the packaging output may be detected by a combined winding state signal of the first and second sensors.

[0025] Additionally or alternatively, the control unit may be arranged to determine the third winding state when the second sensor detects the presence of the string and the dancer roller sensor detects the presence of the dancer roller in its first position. The second sensor may detect that the string is in the winding device, in contrast to the first winding state. However, the dancer roller sensor may detect that the tension in the string is insufficient to displace the dancer roller. Hence, the control unit may reliably determine the third winding state. Moreover, the control unit may reliably distinguish the third winding state from the first winding state.

[0026] In a further embodiment, the one or more sensors include a path sensor or a second sensor positioned to detect the presence or absence of a loop, e.g., slack under, of the string outside of the desired string trajectory. Optionally, the path sensor is an optical sensor. The path sensor is conveniently capable of detecting the presence of said loop.

[0027] When the desired string trajectory does not include said loop, the control unit may be arranged to determine, for example, a third winding state when the path sensor detects the presence of said loop of the string.

[0028] In a further embodiment, the one or more sensors include a reel sensor or a third sensor arranged to detect an amount of the string of continuous pharmaceutical pouches wound around the reel. The reel sensor may be, for example, a load cell for detecting a weight of the reel. Alternatively, the reel sensor may be a distance sensor for determining a radius of the string wound around the reel. The control unit may be arranged to determine a fourth winding state when the detected amount of the string exceeds a predefined threshold.

[0029] In a further embodiment, the winding device further comprises a winding drive for driving the reel in rotation and a torque sensor for measuring the torque of said winding drive. When no string is connected to the reel, the winding drive only rotates the reel, which may reduce the torque. Hence, the absence of string on the reel can be conveniently detected. The control unit may be arranged to determine the first winding state when the torque of the winding drive is lower than a predefined threshold.

[0030] In a further embodiment, the control unit determines, based on the one or more packaging status signals, one or more of the following: a sealing unit of the packaging device is opened; errors in the transport of the string between the wrapping device and the winding device; the difference between the output speed of the string at the packaging output of the packaging device and the winding speed of the string on the reel; The reel is fully loaded, and / or The device is arranged to determine a packaging condition that is indicative of a malfunction of the packaging device.

[0031] In that embodiment, the control unit is responsive to the determined packaging status to issue one or more of the following instructions: stopping the winding of the string by the winding device; Increasing the winding speed of the string on the reel; Reducing the winding speed of the string on the reel, and / or It is programmed to generate winding control signals, including reversing the winding direction of the reel.

[0032] For example, the control unit may be arranged to send a first winding control signal to the winding device in response to determining the first wrapping state, the first winding control signal including an instruction to stop the winding device from winding the string around the reel. Thus, the control unit may automatically or autonomously take appropriate action in response to the first wrapping state. Stopping winding of the string around the reel may prevent the string from pulling or ultimately bursting.

[0033] In that embodiment, the control unit is further programmed to generate a packaging feedback signal back to the packaging device in response to the detected packaging condition.

[0034] In a further embodiment thereof, the packaging feedback signal includes one or more of the following instructions: stopping the transport of the string by the wrapping device; Increasing the output speed of the strings at the packaging output; and / or This involves reducing the output speed of the strings at the packaging output.

[0035] In a further embodiment, the winding device includes a winding drive for driving the reel in rotation in a winding direction to wind the string around the reel.

[0036] In a further embodiment, the packaging device includes a packaging drive for transporting the string through the packaging device.

[0037] In a further embodiment, the control unit includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium including instructions for processing the one or more winding status signals and / or the one or more packaging status signals and, in response, generating respective one or more winding control signals and / or one or more packaging control signals, and a processing unit for executing said instructions.

[0038] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to a method for handling a string of continuous pharmaceutical pouches using an assembly according to the first aspect of the invention, the method comprising the following steps: receiving one or more packaging status signals from a packaging device, and in response to the one or more packaging status signals, transmitting one or more winding control signals to the winding device; and / or The method includes receiving one or more winding status signals from the winding device, and transmitting one or more wrapping control signals to the wrapping device in response to the one or more winding status signals.

[0039] In other words, the method involves a communication between the winding device and the packaging device. Hence, appropriate actions can be taken at the winding device in response to a detected condition of the packaging device, and vice versa. As a result, the winding of the string of consecutive pharmaceutical pouches onto the reel can be adapted to the output of said string from the packaging device. Thus, the output of the string of consecutive pharmaceutical pouches at the packaging device can be adapted to the winding of said string onto the reel. Hence, the string can be handled more reliably. Moreover, excessive forces that may break or damage the string can be prevented.

[0040] In that embodiment, the method comprises determining, based on the one or more winding status signals, one or more of the following: errors in the transport of the string between the wrapping device and the winding device; the difference between the output speed of the string at the packaging output of the packaging device and the winding speed of the string on the reel; The reel is fully loaded, and / or The method further includes determining a winding condition that is indicative of a fault in the winding device.

[0041] In a further embodiment, the method comprises, in response to the detected winding condition, issuing one or more of the following instructions: stopping the transport of the string by the wrapping device; Increasing the output speed of the strings at the packaging output; and / or The method further includes the step of generating a packaging control signal, the step including reducing the output speed of the string at the packaging output.

[0042] In a further embodiment thereof, the method includes stopping the transport of the string by the packaging device in response to a winding condition indicative of an error in the transport of the string between the packaging output and the reel. In case of an error in the transport of the string between the packaging output and the reel, while the packaging device should continue to output the string of pharmaceutical pouches, said string should not be wound around the reel. As a result, a length of string should be output on the floor, creating an unmanageable tangle. Moreover, the string may be damaged in the process. Stopping the transport of the string by the packaging device may be an appropriate action to prevent the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0043] In a further embodiment, the method includes increasing an output speed of the string at a packaging output of the packaging device in response to a winding condition indicating that the winding speed at the reel is faster than the output speed of the string. Such a speed difference can cause the string to stretch and ultimately break or burst. Increasing the output speed at the reel can prevent the string from breaking or bursting.

[0044] In a further embodiment, the method includes reducing the output speed of the string at a packaging output of the packaging device in response to a winding condition indicating that the winding speed at the reel is slower than the output speed of the string. In this particular winding condition, the string may sag, which may eventually cause the string to be output onto the factory floor. This may result in damage to the string of pharmaceutical pouches. By reducing the output speed, the string may be prevented from sagging.

[0045] In a further embodiment, the method includes stopping transport of the string by the packaging device in response to the reel being full. When the reel is full, the string should be cut and the resulting end of the string should be coupled to a further reel. The full reel can then be replaced with an empty reel. The method includes pausing transport of the string when the reel is full. This may allow an operator or a further device to replace the full reel and couple the string to the further reel.

[0046] In a further embodiment, the method further comprises generating a winding feedback signal in response to the detected winding condition and transmitting said winding feedback signal to the winding device. Optionally, the winding feedback signal includes one or more of the following instructions: stopping the winding of the string by the winding device; Increasing the winding speed of the string on the reel; Reducing the winding speed of the string on the reel, and / or including reversing the winding direction of the reel. Thus, in addition to or instead of the wrapping control signals, a winding feedback signal can be sent to the winding device. Thus, appropriate action in response to the detected winding condition may be taken at the wrapping device, at the winding device, or at both the wrapping and winding devices.

[0047] In a further embodiment thereof, the method includes reducing the winding speed on the reel in response to a winding condition indicating that the winding speed on the reel is faster than the output speed of the string at the packaging output of the packaging device. Such a speed difference can cause the string to stretch and ultimately break or burst. Reducing the winding speed on the reel can prevent the string from breaking or bursting.

[0048] In a further embodiment, the method includes increasing the winding speed on the reel in response to a winding condition indicating that the winding speed on the reel is slower than the output speed of the string at the packaging output of the packaging device. In this particular winding condition, the string may sag, which may ultimately result in the string being output onto the factory floor. This may result in damage to the string of pharmaceutical pouches. By increasing the winding speed, the string may be prevented from sagging.

[0049] In a further embodiment, the method includes rotating the reel in a direction opposite to the winding direction at a predetermined time interval in response to a failure of the winding device. In other words, the string is at least partially unwound from the reel. Hence, tension on the string can be reduced. Unwinding the string may allow an operator to access the winding device. Moreover, reducing tension on the string may increase safety for said operator.

[0050] In a further embodiment, the method further comprises determining, based on the one or more packaging status signals, one or more of the following: a sealing unit of the packaging device is opened; errors in the transport of the string between the wrapping device and the winding device; the difference between the output speed of the string at the packaging output of the packaging device and the winding speed of the string on the reel; The reel is fully loaded, and / or Determining a packaging condition that is indicative of a malfunction of the packaging device.

[0051] In that embodiment, the method comprises, in response to the detected packaging condition, executing one or more of the following instructions: stopping the winding of the string by the winding device; Increasing the winding speed of the string on the reel; Reducing the winding speed of the string on the reel, and / or Further included is generating a winding control signal, which includes reversing the winding direction of the reel.

[0052] In a further embodiment thereof, the method includes, in response to a failure of the packaging device, ceasing winding of the string around the reel by the winding device. Ceasing winding of the string around the reel can prevent the string from pulling or ultimately bursting.

[0053] In a further embodiment, the method further comprises generating a packaging feedback signal in response to the detected packaging condition, and transmitting said packaging feedback signal back to the packaging device. Optionally, the packaging feedback signal includes one or more of the following instructions: stopping the transport of the string by the wrapping device; Increasing the output speed of the strings at the packaging output; and / or This involves reducing the output speed of the strings at the packaging output.

[0054] According to a third aspect, the present invention relates to a computer readable medium having computer executable instructions adapted for a control unit of the present invention to execute the method of the present invention. The computer readable medium implements the method of the present invention. Therefore, the same advantages as mentioned above equally apply.

[0055] The various aspects and features described and illustrated in this specification may be applied individually to the extent possible, and these individual aspects, in particular those aspects and features described in the accompanying dependent claims, may be the subject of divisional patent applications.

[0056] The invention will now be explained on the basis of exemplary embodiments shown in the accompanying schematic drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0057] [Figure 1-4] 1 shows an assembly, including an assembly according to an embodiment of the invention, during exemplary process steps. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 shows a detailed view of the connection between the reel and the winding device according to the circle V in FIG. 1 . [Figure 6-7] 6 shows a front view of the detail of FIG. 5 in different operating conditions; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0058] 1-4 show an assembly 1 for handling a continuous string 9 of pharmaceutical pouches. The assembly 1 includes a packaging device 2 for packaging divided pharmaceutical products in each pharmaceutical pouch of the string 9. The assembly 1 further includes a winding device 3 for receiving the string 9 from the packaging device 2 and winding the string 9 onto a reel 4.

[0059] 1-4, the packaging device 2 includes a filling station 23 for filling each consecutive pharmaceutical pouch of the string 9. Specifically, said filling station 23 is arranged to dispense a predetermined amount of the divided pharmaceutical into each pharmaceutical pouch. The packaging device 2 further includes a sealing station 22 for sealing the filled pharmaceutical pouches.

[0060] The packaging device 2 further comprises a packaging output 21 for outputting the string of continuous pharmaceutical pouches 9. The packaging device 2 comprises a packaging drive 26 for transporting the string of continuous pharmaceutical pouches 9 through the packaging device 2. In particular, the packaging drive 26 is arranged to transport the string of continuous pharmaceutical pouches 9 through said filling station 23 and said sealing station 22 to said packaging output 21.

[0061] Typically, an elongated web (not shown) is fed into a packaging device 2 for formation into a continuous string 9 of pharmaceutical pouches. The packaging device 2 may be arranged to form at least a portion of each pharmaceutical pouch in the elongated web, for example by applying a series of heat seals to the web. Alternatively, pouches may be pre-formed in the elongated web before the web is fed into the packaging machine 2.

[0062] The packaging drive 26 is typically arranged to intermittently transport a string 9 of consecutive pharmaceutical pouches so that pharmaceutical products can be fed into each pouch of said string 9 at the filling station 23 and / or each pouch of the string 9 can be securely sealed at the sealing station 22. The packaging drive 26 may include a buffering mechanism (not shown), such as a dancer, to mitigate intermittent transport of the string 9 at the packaging output 21. In particular, such a buffering mechanism may enable a constant or substantially constant output of the string 9 at the packaging output 21.

[0063] As shown in Figures 1-4, the reel 4 includes a central hub or reel hub 40 extending along a central axis A. The reel 4 further includes two flanges 42. The flanges 42 are spaced apart in an axial direction parallel to the central axis A to confine the string in said axial direction. The flanges 42 are connected to the reel hub 40 and extend radially outwardly away from said hub 40 relative to the central axis A.

[0064] As best seen in Figures 5-7, the reel hub 40 further includes a support surface 400 for receiving the string 9. The support surface 400 extends circumferentially about a central axis A. The reel 4 further includes a clamp 41 for clamping a tip of the string 9 to the support surface 400. The clamp 41 is rotatable about a clamp axis B. The clamp axis B is parallel to the central axis A. Specifically, the clamp axis B is spaced apart from the central axis A. Optionally, the clamp 41 is biased towards the support surface 400.

[0065] The winding device 3 comprises a coupling member 30 for receiving the reel 4. The coupling member 30 comprises a drive shaft 300 for driving the reel 4 in rotation about a central axis A. As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the drive shaft 300 is a keyed drive shaft 300 comprising a notch, cam or key 301 projecting radially from said drive shaft 300 transversely or perpendicularly to the central axis A. Alternatively, the drive shaft 300 may comprise a plurality of notches, cams or keys 301, for example distributed circumferentially about the central axis A. The notches, cams or keys 301 are arranged to engage the reel 4 for driving the reel 4 in co-rotation with the drive shaft 300.

[0066] As further shown in FIGS. 5-7, the coupling member 30 includes a retaining member 302 for retaining the reel in an axial direction parallel to the central axis A. The retaining member 302 is movable to a retaining position in which said retaining member 302 projects radially from the drive shaft 300. In this particular embodiment, the retaining member 302 is further movable to a retracted position in which the retaining member 302 does not project from the drive shaft 300 to release the reel 4 from the coupling member 30. Specifically, the retaining member 302 is spring-loaded to the retaining position. Hence, the reel can be conveniently removed by countering the spring load on the retaining member 302 and, as a result, sliding the reel 4 over the drive shaft 300.

[0067] As further shown in FIGS. 5-7 , the reel 4 includes a central hole extending through the reel hub 40 along a central axis A for receiving the connecting member 30 of the winding device 3. The reel 4 includes one or more grooves or key lanes 401 for receiving the notches or keys 301 of the connecting member 30. In this particular embodiment, the grooves or key lanes 401 are distributed circumferentially about the central axis A. Specifically, the grooves or key lanes 401 are evenly distributed about the central axis A.

[0068] Preferably, the retaining member 302 is circumferentially offset relative to the cam, notch or key 301 such that the retaining member 302 is not aligned with the groove or key lane 401 of the reel 4 .

[0069] In this particular embodiment, the winding device 3 includes a winding drive 6 for rotating the connecting member 30. Alternatively, the reel 4 may be driven in rotation by an external drive acting on the outer circumferential surface of the reel 4. For example, the external drive may be attached to one or both outer rims of the flange 42.

[0070] The winding device 3 further comprises a series of rollers 34, 35, 36 for guiding the string 9 of continuous pharmaceutical pouches along a string trajectory S, which extends between the packaging output 21 and the reel 4. The rollers 34, 35, 36 include a first guide roller 34, a second guide roller 35, and a dancer roller 36 along the string trajectory S between the first guide roller 34 and the second guide roller. The dancer roller 36 is movable between a first position as shown in FIG. 3 and a second position spaced a certain distance from the first position. Optionally, the dancer roller 36 is biased towards the first position. The dancer may be biased by a biasing element, for example a spring, or under the influence of gravity. In particular, the dancer roller 36 is arranged to be displaced towards the second position under the influence of the passing string 9.

[0071] The winding device includes a first sensor 31 or a dancer roller sensor for monitoring the position of the dancer roller 36. Specifically, the first sensor 31 is disposed to detect the presence of the dancer roller 36 in a first position. The first sensor 31 may be, for example, a limited sensor.

[0072] Alternatively, the dancer roller 36 may be locked in a first position such that in said first position, the dancer roller 36 may passively tension the string 9, for example by guiding the string 9 along an S-shaped curve in cooperation with the first and second guide rollers 34, 35. The dancer roller 36 may be further disengaged and moved to or towards a second position to facilitate loading or unloading of the string 9 onto the reel 4.

[0073] As best seen in Figures 1 and 2, the winding device 3 includes a second sensor 32 or path sensor disposed along the string trajectory S to detect the presence or absence of the string 9. As further shown in Figures 1 and 2, the string trajectory S is disposed to form a loop between the packaging output 21 and a first guide roller 34 of the winding device 3. Preferably, said loop is formed at or near the first guide roller 34. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the second sensor 32 is disposed along the string trajectory S such that the second sensor 32 can detect the presence or absence of said loop or excess of the string 9. Specifically, the second sensor 32 is disposed below the first guide roller 34.

[0074] In Fig. 1, a situation is shown in which a loop is formed in the string 9 which passes in front of the second sensor 32. The second sensor 32 can therefore detect the presence of said string 9. Fig. 2 shows a situation in which the string 9 is tensioned and, as a result, does not pass in front of the second sensor. The second sensor can therefore detect the absence of said spring 9. Preferably, the second sensor 32 comprises an optical sensor.

[0075] 1-4, the winding device 3 includes a third sensor 33 or a reel sensor for detecting the amount of string 9 wound around the reel 4. The third sensor 33 may for example be a distance sensor. Alternatively, the third sensor 33 may for example be a load cell for measuring the mass of the reel 4.

[0076] The winding device 3 may include one or more additional sensors for detecting process parameters of the winding device 3. For example, the winding device 3 may include a torque sensor (not shown) for measuring the torque of the winding drive 6.

[0077] The assembly 1 further comprises a control unit 5 operatively connected to the packaging device 2 and the winding device. In particular, the control unit 5 is operatively connected to a first sensor 31, a second sensor 32 and a third sensor 33 of the winding device 3. The control unit is further connected to a winding drive 6 of the winding device 3 and a packaging drive 26 of the packaging device 2. The control unit 5 may be connected to further sensors and / or drives (not shown).

[0078] The control unit 5 is arranged to communicate between the packaging device 2 and the winding device 3. Additionally, the control unit 5 may be arranged to provide feedback to either or both of the packaging device 2, the winding device 3. In particular, the control unit 5 is arranged to receive one or more packaging status signals from the packaging device 2 and to transmit one or more winding control signals to the winding device 3 in response to said one or more packaging status signals. Thus, the control unit 5 is arranged to receive one or more winding status signals from the winding device 3 and to transmit one or more packaging control signals to the packaging device 2 in response to said one or more winding status signals.

[0079] In particular, the control unit 5 is arranged to determine one or more winding states based on the received one or more winding state signals. The control unit 5 is further arranged to determine one or more packaging states based on the received one or more packaging state signals. The control unit 5 is programmed to generate a respective packaging control signal and / or a respective winding feedback signal in response to the respective winding state. Thus, the control unit 5 is programmed to generate a respective winding control signal and / or a respective packaging feedback signal in response to the respective packaging state.

[0080] A non-exhaustive number of examples of winding and wrapping conditions are described in more detail below.

[0081] The control unit 5 may be arranged to determine a first winding state, which indicates an error in the transport of the string 9 between the packaging output and the reel 4, e.g. the string 9 may not be coupled to the reel. The first winding state may be determined, for example, when the presence of the dancer roller 36 at the first position is detected by the first sensor 31. Additionally or alternatively, when the desired string trajectory S includes a loop at or near the second sensor 32, the first winding state may be determined when the absence of said loop of the string 9 is detected by the second sensor 32. Optionally, the control unit 5 may be programmed to determine only the first winding state when the first sensor 31 detects the dancer roller 36 at the first position, while the second sensor 32 detects the absence of the string 9.

[0082] Additionally or alternatively, the control unit 5 may be arranged to measure the torque of the winding drive 6. The control unit 5 may be programmed to determine a first winding state when the torque of said winding drive 6 is below a predefined threshold.

[0083] The control unit 5 is programmed to generate a first packaging control signal in response to detecting the first winding condition. The control unit 5 is arranged to transmit said first packaging control signal to the packaging device 2. The first packaging control signal may for example include an instruction to stop transport of the string 9 by the packaging drive 26. Additionally, the first packaging control signal may include an instruction to stop sealing and filling of pharmaceutical pouches by the sealing station 22 and the filling station 23, respectively.

[0084] The control unit 5 may further be arranged to determine a second winding state indicative of a winding speed on the reel 4 being faster than an output speed of the string 9 at the packaging output 21. Said second winding state may for example be determined when the first sensor 31 detects the absence of the dancer roller 36 at the first position while the second sensor 32 detects the absence of the string 9, i.e. when the dancer roller 36 is displaced towards the second position by the passing string 9.

[0085] The control unit 5 is programmed to generate a first winding feedback signal or a further winding control signal in response to said second winding condition. The control unit 5 is arranged to transmit said first winding feedback signal or a further winding control signal to the winding device 3. The first winding feedback signal or the further control signal may for example comprise an instruction to the winding drive 6 to reduce the winding speed on the reel 4.

[0086] Additionally or alternatively, the control unit 5 may be programmed to generate a wrapping control signal in response to the second winding condition. The wrapping control signal may include an instruction to the wrapping device 2 to increase the output speed of the string 9 at the wrapping output 21.

[0087] The control unit 5 may further be arranged to determine a third winding state, indicative of a winding speed at the reel 4 being slower than the output speed of the string 9 at the packaging output 21. When the predetermined string trajectory S does not include a loop at or near the location of the second sensor 32, the control unit 5 may be arranged to determine the third winding state when the second sensor 32 detects the presence of said loop of the string 9. Alternatively, when the predetermined string trajectory S includes a loop at or near the location of the second sensor 32, the control unit 5 may be arranged to determine the third winding state when the first sensor 31 detects the presence of the dancer roller 36 in its first position while the second sensor 32 detects the presence of the string 9. This may be the case, for example, when the string 9 is properly connected to the reel 4, but the tension in said string is insufficient to displace the dancer roller 36 away from the first position.

[0088] The control unit 5 is programmed to generate a second winding feedback signal or a further winding control signal in response to said third winding condition. The control unit 5 is arranged to send said second winding feedback signal or a further winding control signal to the winding device 3. The second winding feedback signal or the further winding control signal may for example comprise a command to the winding drive 6 to increase the winding speed on the reel 4.

[0089] Additionally or alternatively, the control unit 5 may be programmed to generate a wrapping control signal in response to the third winding condition. The wrapping control signal may include an instruction to the wrapping device 2 to reduce the output speed of the string 9 at the wrapping output 21.

[0090] The control unit 5 may further be arranged to determine a fourth winding state, indicative of the reel 4 being fully loaded. The control unit 5 may for example be arranged to determine the fourth winding state when the amount of string 9 detected by the third sensor exceeds a predefined threshold. For example, when the third sensor 33 is a load cell, said predefined threshold may correspond to a maximum fill weight of the reel. The control unit may therefore be arranged to determine a further winding state, indicative of an absence of reel 4, when the third sensor 33 detects a weight lower than the predefined threshold.

[0091] The control unit 5 is arranged to generate a second packaging control signal in response to said fourth winding state. The control unit 5 is arranged to transmit said second packaging control signal to the packaging device 2. The second packaging control signal may for example comprise an instruction to stop transport of the string 9 by the packaging drive 26. Additionally, the first packaging control signal may comprise an instruction to stop sealing and filling of pharmaceutical pouches by the sealing station 22 and the filling station 23, respectively.

[0092] The control unit 5 may further be arranged to determine a fifth winding status, indicative of a fault of the winding device 3. The winding device 3 may be arranged to generate a winding status signal, indicative of an error or fault of said winding device 3, e.g. that the reel 4 is missing or that the reel 4 is not correctly connected to the connecting member.

[0093] The control unit 5 is programmed to generate a third winding feedback signal or a further winding control signal in response to the fifth winding state. The control unit 5 is arranged to send the third winding feedback signal or the further winding control signal to the winding device 3. The third winding feedback signal or the further winding control signal comprises a command to drive the reel 4 in rotation in a direction opposite to the winding direction for a predetermined time interval. In other words, the feedback signal comprises a command to unwind the reel 4. By unwinding the reel, an operator may check for errors in the winding device 3 without being hindered by the string 9.

[0094] The control unit 5 may further be arranged to determine a first packaging status, indicative of a malfunction of the packaging device 2. Analogous to the winding device 3, the packaging device 2 may be arranged to generate a packaging status signal, indicative of an error or malfunction of said packaging device 2. For example, the sealing station 22 may be jammed or a divided pharmaceutical product may block a hole in the filling station 23.

[0095] The control unit 5 is programmed to generate a first winding control signal in response to the first wrapping condition. The control unit 5 is arranged to send the first winding control signal to the winding device 3. The first winding control signal may for example comprise a command to stop winding the string 9 around the reel 4 by the winding device 3. Additionally, the control unit may be programmed to send a wrapping feedback signal or a further wrapping control signal to the wrapping device 2 comprising a command to stop transporting the string 9 through the wrapping device.

[0096] Exemplary method steps according to the method of the present invention will now be described with the aid of FIGS.

[0097] 1 shows the assembly 1 in a situation where the amount of string 9 output at the packaging output 21 is greater than the amount of string 9 wound around the reel 4. As a result, the string 9 is slack between the packaging output 21 and the second guide roller 35. In other words, a loop or excess of string 9 is formed along the string trajectory S. Said loop of string 9 is detected by the second sensor 32, which sends a winding status signal to the control unit 5, indicating the presence of string 9 at said first sensor 32.

[0098] 1, the string 9 is correctly connected to the reel 4. Therefore, the part of the string 9 passing the dancer roller 36 displaces said dancer roller 36 away from its first position. As a result, the first sensor 31 does not detect the dancer roller 36 in the first position and sends a winding status signal to the control unit 5 indicating the absence of the first dancer roller 36 in the first position.

[0099] The control unit 5 may then determine that the winding device 3 is in a third winding state, indicating that the winding speed at the reel is slower than the output speed at the packaging output 21. In response, the control unit 5 generates a second winding feedback signal. The control unit 5 therefore sends a command to the winding drive 6 to increase the winding speed. Alternatively, the control unit 5 may send a command to the packaging drive 26 to reduce the phase speed of the string through the packaging device 2.

[0100] In an alternative configuration of the control unit 5, Fig. 1 may depict a normal operating condition of the assembly 1. In this case, a loop in the string trajectory S at the second sensor is intended. In this alternative configuration of the control unit 5, the control unit should detect a second winding state, indicating that the winding speed at the reel 4 is faster than the output speed of the string 9 at the packaging output 21, when the second sensor 32 detects that there is no string 9 at said second sensor 32. Thus, the control unit can detect a third winding state, indicating that the winding speed at the reel 4 is slower than the output speed of the string 9 at the packaging output 21, when the first sensor 31 detects that there is a dancer roller 36 in the first position.

[0101] 2 shows the assembly 1 in a situation where the reel 4 is fully loaded. The third sensor 33 sends a winding state signal to the control unit 5 indicating that the amount of string 9 on the reel 4 exceeds a predefined threshold. The control unit 5 thus detects a fourth winding state. In response thereto, the control unit 5 generates a second wrapping control signal. The control unit 5 thus sends a command to the wrapping drive 26 of the wrapping device 2 to stop the transport of the string 9 by said wrapping device 2. Additionally, the control unit 5 may send a winding feedback signal or a further winding control signal to the winding device 3 to stop the winding of the string 9 around the reel 4.

[0102] 3 shows the assembly 1 with the string 9 not connected to the reel 4. The dancer roller 36 is biased to a first position by its bias. Thus, the first sensor 31 detects the presence of the dancer roller 36 in said first position and sends a winding status signal to the control unit 5 indicative of the same.

[0103] The second sensor 32 does not detect a loop of the string 9 at the location of said second sensor 32. As a result, the second sensor 32 sends a winding status signal to the control unit 5 indicating that the second sensor 32 does not have the string 9 present.

[0104] The control unit 5 therefore detects a first winding condition, which indicates an error in the transport of the string between the packaging device 2 and the winding device 3. The control unit 5 generates a first packaging control signal as a result. The control unit 5 therefore sends a command to the packaging device 2 to stop the transport of the string by the packaging drive 26. The control unit 5 may further be arranged to send a command to the winding device 3 to stop rotation of the winding drive 6.

[0105] 4 shows the assembly 1 in a situation where the packaging process in the packaging device 2 has been interrupted. In particular, the transport of the strings 9 through the packaging device 2 has been stopped. As a result, no strings 9 are output at the packaging output 21.

[0106] The winding device 3 is still winding the string 9 around the reel 4. As a result, the string 9 is gradually tensioned between the packaging output 21 and the winding device 3. Said tension is partly complemented by the dancer roller 36 being displaced towards its second position.

[0107] The packaging device 2 sends a first packaging status signal to the control unit 5, indicating an error or failure in said packaging device 2. The control unit 5 thus detects the first packaging status and issues a command to the winding device 3 to stop winding the string 9 around the reel 4.

[0108] In an alternative configuration of the control unit 5, Figure 4 may depict an operating condition of the assembly 1 where the string 9 is wound around the reel 4 at a winding speed faster than the output speed of the string 9 at the packaging output 21. In this configuration of the control unit 5, the string trajectory S should in normal operation include a loop at the second sensor 32, as depicted in Figure 1.

[0109] In an alternative configuration of the control unit 5, the control unit 5 would receive a winding state signal from the second sensor 32 indicating that the string 9 is not at the loop location in the string trajectory S. The control unit 5 would receive a winding state from the first sensor 31 indicating that the dancer roller 36 is not in the first position. The control unit 5 would therefore detect a second winding state indicating that the winding speed on the reel 4 is faster than the output speed of the string 9 at the packaging output 21. The control unit 5 would therefore generate a first winding feedback signal or a further winding control signal and would send a command to the winding drive 6 to reduce the winding speed.

[0110] As shown in Figures 1-4, the control unit 5 comprises a computer readable medium 52. The computer readable medium 52 may be non-transitory or tangible, e.g. a physical data carrier such as a hard drive, a USB drive, a RAM memory or the like. Said computer readable medium 52 comprises instructions for processing the winding status signal(s) and / or the packaging status signal(s) and in response generating respective winding control signal(s) and / or packaging control signal(s). The control unit further comprises a processing unit 51 for executing said instructions.

[0111] The invention further relates to a computer readable medium having computer executable instructions adapted to cause a control unit 5 to carry out the method steps as described above.

[0112] It should be understood that the above is included to illustrate the operation of the preferred embodiment and is not meant to limit the scope of the invention. From the above discussion, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many variations would still be encompassed within the scope of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0113] 1 assembly 2. Packaging Device 21 Packaging output 22 Sealing Station 23 Filling Station 26 Packaging Drive 3. Winding device 30 Connecting members 300 Driveshaft 301 Cam 302 Maintenance parts 31 First sensor or dancer roller sensor 32 Second sensor or path sensor 33 Third sensor or reel sensor 34 First guide roller 35 Second guide roller 36 Dancer Roller 4 Reels 40 Reel Hub 400 Support surface 401 Key Lane 41 Clamp 42 Flange 5. Control Unit 51 Processing equipment 52 Computer-readable medium 6 Take-up drive 9 String A center axis B Clamp shaft S string orbit

Claims

1. An assembly (1) for handling a string (9) of continuous pharmaceutical pouches, said assembly (1) comprising a packaging device (2) for packaging divided pharmaceuticals in each of said pharmaceutical pouches of said string (9), a winding device (3) for receiving said string (9) from said packaging device (2) and for winding said string (9) onto a reel (4), and a control unit (5) operatively connected to said packaging device (2) and said winding device (3), said control unit (5) comprising: receiving one or more packaging status signals from the packaging device (2) and sending one or more winding control signals to the winding device (3) in response to the one or more packaging status signals; and / or a control unit (5) arranged to receive one or more winding status signals from the winding device (3) and to transmit one or more packaging control signals to the packaging device (2) in response to the one or more winding status signals; Based on the one or more winding status signals, one or more of the following are determined: an error in the transport of the string (9) between the wrapping device (2) and the winding device (3); the difference between the output speed of the string at the packaging output (21) of the packaging device (2) and the winding speed of the string (9) on the reel; and a control unit (5) further arranged to determine a winding condition indicative of a fault in said winding device (3).

2. The control unit (5) determines, based on the one or more winding state signals, 2. An assembly (1) according to claim 1, arranged to determine a winding condition indicative of said reel (4) being full.

3. The control unit (5) responds to the detected winding condition by issuing one or more of the following commands: stopping the transport of the string (9) by the packaging device (2); Increasing the output speed of the strings at the packaging output (21); and reducing the output speed of the strings (9) at the packaging output (21).

4. 4. An assembly (1) according to claim 3, wherein the control unit (5) is further programmed to generate a winding feedback signal back to the winding device (3) in response to the detected winding condition.

5. The winding feedback signal may be one or more of the following commands: Stopping the winding of the string (9) by the winding device (3); Increasing the winding speed of the string on the reel (4); and Reducing the winding speed of the string (9) on the reel (6); and 5. The assembly (1) according to claim 4, further comprising: reversing the winding direction of the reel (4).

6. The assembly (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the winding device (3) comprises one or more sensors (31, 32, 33) operatively connected to the control unit (5) for detecting the presence or absence of a string of continuous pharmaceutical pouches (9).

7. 7. The assembly (1) according to claim 6, wherein the winding device (3) includes a dancer roller (36) that defines at least a portion of a string trajectory (S) between the packaging output (21) and the reel (4), the dancer roller (36) is movable between a first position and a second position, the dancer roller (36) is biased toward the first position, and the dancer roller (36) is arranged to be displaced toward the second position under the influence of the passing string (9), and the one or more sensors (31, 32, 33) include a dancer roller sensor (31) arranged to detect the presence of the dancer roller (36) in at least one of the first position and the second position.

8. 8. The assembly (1) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the one or more sensors (31, 32, 33) include a path sensor (32) arranged to detect the presence or absence of the string (9) along a desired string trajectory (S).

9. 8. The assembly (1) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the one or more sensors (31, 32, 33) include a path sensor (32) positioned to detect the presence or absence of a loop of the string (9) outside a desired string trajectory (S).

10. The assembly (1) according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the one or more sensors (31, 32, 33) comprises a reel sensor (33) arranged to detect the amount of the string (9) of continuous pharmaceutical pouches wound around the reel (4).

11. The assembly (1) according to any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein the winding device (3) further comprises a winding drive (6) for driving the reel (4) in rotation, and a torque sensor for measuring the torque of the winding drive (6).

12. The control unit (5) determines, based on the one or more packaging status signals, one or more of the following: a sealing unit (22) of said packaging device (2) is opened; and an error in the transport of the string (9) between the wrapping device (2) and the winding device (3); the difference between the output speed of the string at the packaging output (21) of the packaging device (2) and the winding speed of the string (9) on the reel; The reel (4) is fully loaded; and An assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, arranged to determine a packaging condition, indicative of a malfunction of the packaging device (2).

13. The control unit (5) in response to the detected packaging condition issues one or more of the following instructions: Stopping the winding of the string (9) by the winding device (3); increasing the winding speed of the string on the reel; and Reducing the winding speed of the string (9) on the reel (6); and 13. The assembly (1) according to claim 12, programmed to generate winding control signals including reversing the winding direction of the reel (4).

14. 14. An assembly (1) according to claim 13, wherein the control unit (5) is further programmed to generate a packaging feedback signal back to the packaging device (2) in response to the detected packaging condition.

15. The packaging feedback signal may include one or more of the following instructions: stopping the transport of the string (9) by the packaging device (2); Increasing the output speed of the strings at the packaging output (21); and reducing the output speed of the strings (9) at the packaging output (21).

16. An assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the winding device (3) comprises a winding drive (6) for driving the reel (4) in rotation in a winding direction to wind the string (9) around the reel (4).

17. An assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the packaging device (2) comprises a packaging drive (26) for transporting the string (9) through the packaging device (2).

18. The assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (5) comprises a non-transitory computer readable medium (52) comprising instructions for processing the one or more winding status signals and / or the one or more packaging status signals and in response generating the respective one or more winding control signals and / or one or more packaging control signals, and a processing unit (51) for executing said instructions.

19. A method for handling a string (9) of continuous pharmaceutical pouches using an assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, said method comprising the following steps: receiving one or more packaging status signals from the packaging device (2) and sending one or more winding control signals to the winding device (3) in response to the one or more packaging status signals; and / or receiving one or more packaging status signals from the winding device (3) and transmitting one or more packaging control signals to the packaging device (2) in response to the one or more winding status signals, the method comprising the steps of: Based on the one or more winding status signals, one or more of the following are determined: an error in the transport of the string (9) between the wrapping device (2) and the winding device (3); the difference between the output speed of the string at the packaging output (21) of the packaging device (2) and the winding speed of the string (9) on the reel; The method further comprises the step of determining a winding condition, which is indicative of a fault in the winding device (3).

20. The method further comprises, based on the one or more winding status signals:

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising the step of determining a winding condition indicative of the reel (4) being full.

21. The method further comprises, in response to the detected winding condition, issuing one or more of the following instructions: stopping the transport of the string (9) by the packaging device (2); Increasing the output speed of the strings at the packaging output (21); 21. The method of claim 20, further comprising the step of generating a packaging control signal, the step including: reducing the output speed of the strings (9) at the packaging output (21).

22. 22. The method of claim 21, comprising stopping the transport of the string (9) by the packaging device (2) in response to a winding condition indicative of an error in the transport of the string between the packaging output (21) and the reel (4).

23. 23. The method of claim 21 or 22, comprising increasing the output speed of the string (9) at a packaging output (21) of the packaging device (2) in response to a winding condition indicating that the winding speed on the reel (4) is faster than the output speed of the string (9).

24. 24. The method of claim 21, 22 or 23, comprising reducing the output speed of the string (9) at a packaging output (21) of the packaging device (2) in response to a winding condition indicating that the winding speed on the reel (4) is slower than the output speed of the string (9).

25. The method according to any one of claims 21 to 24, wherein the method comprises stopping the transport of the string (9) by the packaging device (2) in response to the reel (4) being full.

26. The method according to any one of claims 21 to 25, further comprising the steps of generating a winding feedback signal in response to the detected winding condition and transmitting the winding feedback signal to the winding device (3).

27. The winding feedback signal may be one or more of the following commands: Stopping the winding of the string (9) by the winding device (3); Increasing the winding speed of the string on the reel (4); and Reducing the winding speed of the string (9) on the reel (6); and and reversing the winding direction of the reel (4).

28. 28. The method of claim 27, comprising reducing the winding speed on the reel (4) in response to a winding condition indicating that the winding speed on the reel (4) is faster than an output speed of the string (9) at a packaging output (21) of the packaging device (2).

29. 29. The method of claim 27 or 28, comprising increasing the winding speed on the reel (4) in response to a winding condition indicating that the winding speed on the reel (4) is slower than an output speed of the string (9) at a packaging output (21) of the packaging device (2).

30. 30. A method according to claim 27, 28 or 29, the method comprising rotating the reel (4) in a direction opposite to the winding direction for a predetermined time interval in response to a fault in the winding device (3).

31. The method further comprises determining, based on the one or more packaging status signals, one or more of the following: a sealing unit (22) of said packaging device (2) is opened; and an error in the transport of the string (9) between the wrapping device (2) and the winding device (3); the difference between the output speed of the string at the packaging output (21) of the packaging device (2) and the winding speed of the string (9) on the reel; The reel (4) is fully loaded; and The method according to any one of claims 19 to 30, comprising the step of determining a packaging status, indicative of a malfunction of the packaging device (2).

32. The method further comprises, in response to the detected packaging condition, executing one or more of the following instructions: Stopping the winding of the string (9) by the winding device (3); increasing the winding speed of the string on the reel; and Reducing the winding speed of the string (9) on the reel (6); and 32. The method of claim 31, further comprising generating a winding control signal including reversing the winding direction of the reel (4).

33. 33. The method of claim 32, comprising stopping the winding of the string (9) around the reel (4) by the winding device (3) in response to a failure of the packaging device (2).

34. 34. The method according to claim 32 or 33, further comprising the steps of generating a packaging feedback signal in response to the detected packaging condition and transmitting the packaging feedback signal back to the packaging device (2).

35. The packaging feedback signal may include one or more of the following instructions: stopping the transport of the string (9) by the packaging device (2); Increasing the output speed of the strings at the packaging output (21); and reducing the output speed of the strings (9) at the packaging output (21).

36. A computer program product comprising a non-transitory computer readable medium (52) carrying instructions which, when executed by a processing device (51), cause an assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 18 to perform the steps of the method according to any one of claims 19 to 35.

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