Device for reducing microorganisms on web materials

Abstract

An apparatus (20) for reducing the presence of microorganisms on a web material (12), for example in a packaging manufacturing system, includes a housing (21) defining an interior space (22) and a microorganism reduction arrangement (25) within the interior space. Elongated inlet and outlet ports (23, 24) on the housing have respective seals (24') for flexural engagement with the web material, allowing the web material to travel along a path of travel (TP) through the interior space. A movable element (26) having a support surface (26') is disposed within the housing and is movable between a first position (I) where the support surface is positioned along the path of travel to direct a leading end (12A) of the web material from the inlet port toward the outlet port, and a second position (II) where the support surface is spaced from the path of travel.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for reducing the presence of microorganisms on web materials, particularly web materials used in the manufacture of packaging. [Background technology]

[0002] It is extremely important to reduce the presence of microorganisms during the manufacture of certain packages, such as those containing food products. This can be achieved by pasteurization or sterilization.

[0003] One type of packaging is made from a web material, which is cut into the shape of the package and filled with the food product. The web material may be, for example, a fiber-based laminate including a core layer of paper or paperboard and one or more barrier layers of plastic. The packages are produced on a production line that includes one or more conventional filling machines. The web material is typically fed to the production line in a roll.

[0004] Sterilization or sterilization may be performed at various stages of a production line. It is common to sterilize incoming web material to prevent contamination of downstream equipment in the production line. Sterilization may be performed by passing the web material through a sterilization device or unit, where the web material is sterilized. The port of the sterilization device may be provided with a flexible seal that engages the passing web material so that sterilization occurs in a substantially closed space within the housing. Alternatively or additionally, a corresponding sterilization device may be located in the production line to perform sterilization of the web material.

[0005] Industrial packaging production is automated and designed for high-volume production. Stopping production for service or maintenance is costly. When a roll of web material is consumed, web material from another roll must be introduced into the production line through a sterilization device. Roll changeover times must be kept to a minimum. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] It is an object to at least partially overcome one or more of the above limitations identified in the prior art.

[0007] One such purpose is to facilitate changeover of web materials in production lines that include devices for reducing the presence of microorganisms on the web material, where reducing the presence of microorganisms means reducing the presence of live microorganisms and can include both disinfection and sterilization.

[0008] One or more of these objects, as well as further objects that may become apparent from the following description, are at least partly achieved by an apparatus for reducing the presence of microorganisms on a web material and a system for package production according to the independent claims, embodiments of which are defined by the dependent claims. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] A first aspect relates to an apparatus for reducing the presence of microorganisms on a web material. The apparatus includes a housing defining an interior space; an inlet port and an outlet port, the inlet port and the outlet port being disposed on the housing such that the web material can travel along a path of travel through the interior space between the inlet port and the outlet port. The inlet port and the outlet port are elongated and include respective elongated seals for flexural engagement with the web material. The apparatus further includes a configuration for reducing the presence of microorganisms on the web material within the interior space. The apparatus further includes a movable element including a support surface. The movable element is disposed within the housing such that the support surface moves between a first position, where the support surface is disposed along the path of travel to direct a leading edge of the web material from the inlet port toward the outlet port, and a second position, where the support surface is spaced from the path of travel.

[0010] In some embodiments, when the movable element is in the second position, the support surface is spaced from the path of movement to allow the arrangement fixedly positioned within the housing unobstructed access to the web material, thereby reducing the presence of microorganisms on the web material.

[0011] In some embodiments, the apparatus further comprises a sensor configured to generate a signal indicative of whether the movable element is in the first position or the second position.

[0012] In some embodiments, the apparatus further comprises a control unit configured to operate said arrangement based on a signal from the sensor.

[0013] In some embodiments, the control unit is configured to disable the configuration when the movable element is in a first position and to enable the configuration when the movable element is in a second position.

[0014] In some embodiments, the support surface is flat.

[0015] In some embodiments, when the movable element is in the first position, the support surface is parallel to the inlet and outlet ports.

[0016] In some embodiments, the exit port comprises an access opening in the housing and an elongated seal positioned to cover the access opening, the access opening and / or the elongated seal defining a boundary surface of the exit port in the housing, and when the movable element is in the first position, the support surface is tilted and / or moved relative to the boundary surface based on a predetermined curvature of the web material to direct a leading edge of the web material toward the exit port.

[0017] In some embodiments, when the movable element is in the first position, the front end of the support surface is located at the outlet port, and a first distance between the front end and the boundary surface perpendicular to the boundary surface is in the range of 0 to 50 mm, preferably in the range of 0.5 to 40 mm.

[0018] In some embodiments, the elongated seal defines an elongated slit for receiving the web material, and when the movable element is in the first position, the front end of the support surface is positioned a second distance from the elongated slit parallel to the boundary surface, the second distance being in the range of 0 to 10 mm, preferably in the range of 0 to 5 mm.

[0019] In some embodiments, the movable element further comprises a guide surface joined to the support surface and inclined away from the support surface, the guide surface being positioned intermediate the support surface and the inlet port along the path of movement so as to direct a leading edge of the web material from the inlet port onto the support surface when the movable element is in the first position.

[0020] In some embodiments, at least one of the elongate seals includes two opposing guide surfaces extending along the elongate seal and tapering toward an elongate slit in the seal, the opposing guide surfaces positioned to guide a leading edge of the web material toward the elongate slit adapted to receive the web material.

[0021] In some embodiments, the width of the support surface is 90% of the width of the web material, or is equal to the width of the web material, or is greater than the width of the web material.

[0022] In some embodiments, the movable element is movable between the first position and the second position by rotation about an axis of rotation.

[0023] In some embodiments, the movable element comprises a rod arranged to rotate within the housing and having an end configured to protrude through a wall of the housing.

[0024] In some embodiments, the axis of rotation is located below the inlet port.

[0025] In some embodiments, the axis of rotation extends parallel to the inlet port.

[0026] In some embodiments, the apparatus further comprises a manipulator disposed external to the housing and coupled by a linkage to the movable element to move the movable element between the first position and the second position.

[0027] In some embodiments, the arrangement is operable to reduce the presence of microorganisms on the web material by providing one or more of heat, a disinfectant, a sterilant, ultraviolet light, or an electron beam.

[0028] A second aspect relates to a system for manufacturing packages, the system comprising: a supply apparatus for a web material; an apparatus according to the first aspect or any of its embodiments, configured to receive the web material from the supply apparatus and operable to reduce the presence of microorganisms on the web material; and a filling machine configured to receive the web material from the apparatus and process the web material into packages.

[0029] Still other objects, features, embodiments, aspects, additional features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description and the accompanying schematic drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0030] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a handling system for manufacturing packages. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a perspective view of a rolled web of material for use in the system of FIG. 1A. [Figure 2] FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of an example of a sterilization device in the operation system of FIG. 1A. [Figure 3A] FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of an example of a sterilization device for use in the system of FIG. 1A. [Figure 3B] FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of an example of a sterilization device for use in the system of FIG. 1A. [Figure 3C] FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of an example of a sterilization device for use in the system of FIG. 1A. [Figure 3D] FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of an example of a sterilization device for use in the system of FIG. 1A. [Figure 3E] FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of an example of a sterilization device for use in the system of FIG. 1A. [Figure 3F] FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of an example of a sterilization device for use in the system of FIG. 1A. [Figure 3G] FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of an example of a sterilization device for use in the system of FIG. 1A. [Figure 3H] FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of an example of a sterilization device for use in the system of FIG. 1A. [Figure 4A] 1A and 1B are perspective and cross-sectional views of an exemplary sterilizer with a movable support disposed in a service position. [Figure 4B] 1A and 1B are perspective and cross-sectional views of an exemplary sterilizer with a movable support disposed in a service position. [Figure 5A] 4A-4B, showing a perspective view and a cross-sectional view of the sterilization device, with the movable support disposed in the production position. [Figure 5B] 4A-4B, showing a perspective view and a cross-sectional view of the sterilization device, with the movable support disposed in the production position. [Figure 6] 5B and illustrates an attempt to introduce a web material into the sterilization apparatus when the movable support is in the production position. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for controlling a sterilization device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0031] Embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments are shown. Indeed, the subject matter of this disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements.

[0032] Where possible, any of the advantages, features, functions, devices, and / or operational aspects of any of the embodiments described and / or contemplated herein may be included in any of the other embodiments described and / or contemplated herein, and / or vice versa. Additionally, where possible, terms used in the singular herein are intended to include the plural and / or vice versa, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, the terms "a" and / or "an" are intended to mean "at least one" or "one or more," even though the expressions "one or more" or "at least one" are also used herein. The terms "multiple," "plural," and "plurality" are intended to mean the provision of two or more elements. The term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed elements. Terms such as "first," "second," etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, but these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first element could be termed a second element, and, similarly, a second element could be termed a first element, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0033] Well-known functions or structures may not be described in detail for the sake of brevity and / or clarity. Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

[0034] Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

[0035] FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram of an example of a system 1 for producing packages 50. Packages 50 may contain any type of product. In the following, it is assumed that packages 50 are filled with a food product. In the illustrated example, production system 1 includes a web feeding apparatus 10, an apparatus 20 for reducing the presence of microorganisms, and a filling machine 30. Web feeding apparatus 10 includes a roll 11 of web material 12, which is fed through apparatus 20 to filling machine 30. Filling machine 30 is configured to form a portion of web material 12 into a container, fill the container, and seal the filled container to produce package 50. Typically, filling machine 30 is configured to cut, fold, and form the incoming web material into a container. Filling machine 30 may be of any conventional type, be a unitary structure, or a combination of physically separate units.

[0036] The web material 12 ("web") is a flat sheet of any suitable material. This disclosure is not limited to a particular composition of the web 12. However, in many systems for manufacturing packages, the web 12 comprises a cellulose-based material, such as paper or paperboard, which may or may not be laminated on one or both sides with one or more layers of plastic material and / or metal. The web 12 is typically supplied to the web feeding apparatus 10 in a rolled state. A roll 11 of such web material is shown in FIG. 1B. The web 12 unwound from the roll 11 has two opposing flat surfaces 12" joined by longitudinal edges 12'. In other words, the flat surfaces 12" are bounded along the web 12 by the edges 12'.

[0037] Apparatus 20 is configured to receive and treat web 12 to reduce the presence of microorganisms thereon. As used herein, the term "microorganism" refers to any microorganism, including, but not limited to, bacteria, fungi, archaea, protists, viruses, prions, etc. In some embodiments, apparatus 20 may be configured to perform disinfection or sterilization of web 12. As used herein, "disinfection" refers to a process that inactivates or destroys many, but not necessarily all, microorganisms, while "sterilization" refers to a process that removes, kills, or inactivates all microorganisms. For simplicity, apparatus 20 will be referred to hereinafter as a "disinfection apparatus," although it may alternatively be used for sterilization.

[0038] One of the reasons for installing the sterilization device 20 is to prevent the propagation of microorganisms in downstream equipment within the manufacturing system 1. This is particularly relevant for packaging food products that have high hygiene requirements. The sterilization device 20 does not have to be installed upstream of the filling machine 30 as shown in Figure 1A, but may be installed anywhere within the filling machine 30. It should also be noted that the sterilization device 20 may be complemented by further devices for sterilization or disinfection within the filling machine 30.

[0039] The manufacturing system 1 is operated by one or more controllers, represented generally in Figure 1A by a control unit 40. The controller 40 is configured to provide control signals and receive feedback signals, generally designated S1, S2, and S3, and represented in Figure 1A by double-headed arrows (dotted lines).

[0040] As indicated by arrow 100, web 12 is fed from feeding device 10, through sterilization device 20, and into filling machine 30. It will be understood that system 1 may include one or more web feeding mechanisms, for example within filling machine 30 and / or as separate components.

[0041] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary sterilization apparatus 20 in operation. The sterilization apparatus 20 includes a housing 21 defining an interior space 22 within which the web 12 is sterilized or sterilized. Inlet and outlet ports 23, 24 are disposed in the housing 21 for receiving the web 12. Each port 23, 24 is elongated and adapted to pass the web 12 therethrough. The web 12 enters the apparatus 20 through the inlet port 23, traverses the space 22 in a travel path, and exits the apparatus 20 through the outlet port 24. Typically, the web 12 is continuously fed through the apparatus 20 in a feed direction 100 during operation of the filling machine 30. The apparatus 20 also includes an arrangement 25 for reducing the presence of microorganisms on the web 12. For simplicity, the arrangement 25 will hereinafter be referred to as a "microorganism reduction arrangement" or MMA. In FIG. 2, the MMA 25 is represented by two treatment units, one above and one below the travel path of the web 12 within the space 22. Each treatment unit may be an emitter of radiation or a port for injection of a disinfecting / sterilizing substance. Any number of treatment units may be provided within space 22. In some embodiments, MMA 25 is configured to subject web 12 to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, electron beam radiation, one or more germicides, one or more sterilizers, or heat, or any combination thereof. Non-limiting examples of commonly used germicides and sterilants include hydrogen peroxide, ethylene oxide, peracetic acid, formaldehyde, ozone, chlorine dioxide, etc.

[0042] 2, web guide units may be positioned upstream and / or downstream of the sterilizer 20 to accurately position the web 12 relative to the inlet and outlet ports 23, 24. Such web guide units are well known in the art.

[0043] It should also be noted that the path of travel of the web 12 through the sterilizer 20 need not be horizontal, but may have any orientation relative to the direction of gravity. Thus, the sterilizer 20 of Figure 2 may have any orientation.

[0044] The disinfection or sterilization performed within the apparatus 20 typically involves substances that may be harmful to the human body. These substances may be provided by the MMA 25 or may be generated during disinfection / sterilization. Therefore, it is necessary to mitigate the uncontrolled release of substances from the space 22 within the apparatus 20 to the surroundings. To this end, the ports 23, 24 comprise flexible sealing elements adapted to flexibly engage the flat surface 12" of the web 12. Non-limiting examples of sealing elements are further shown below with reference to Figures 4-6.

[0045] While providing ports 23, 24 on opposite sides of apparatus 20 allows for easy and efficient feeding of web 12 into apparatus 20 for pasteurization / sterilization, it presents challenges when inserting web 12 into apparatus 20 and extending between ports 23, 24. When web 12 is removed from roll 11, it is likely to have some curvature corresponding to its wound configuration. Furthermore, because web 12 is not rigid, it is prone to twisting or bending about its longitudinal axis due to the action of gravity. Additionally, web 12 may be quite wide, further complicating handling by operators. Inserting web 12 is further complicated by the presence of seals at ports 23, 24. Consequently, start-up of a production line can be time-consuming and cumbersome for operators. Similarly, changing rolls during production can require significant downtime. Leaving web 12 on the production line during a production cycle can reduce start-up time; however, this can lead to sanitary performance issues on the production line. Additionally, any web 12 left on the production line may need to be discarded, resulting in undesirable waste of web material.

[0046] A solution to this problem is shown in FIG. 3A, which is a cross-sectional side view of a sterilization apparatus 20 similar to that of FIG. 2. Support elements 26 define a support surface 26' for web 12. Support surface 26' is positioned to extend along path of travel TP of web 12 between ports 23, 24. As shown, leading end 12A of web 12 is guided along support surface 26' toward exit port 24 as web 12 is inserted through inlet port 23 and moved in feed direction 100 through interior space 22. Leading end 12A is also referred to herein as the "web end." With appropriate configuration and arrangement of support surface 26', and possibly exit port 24, web end 12A eventually reaches and is discharged through exit port 24. FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus of FIG. 3A from the top of apparatus 20. The width of web 20 between ends 12' is designated W1. The corresponding width of support surface 26' is designated W2. To prevent the web 12 from bending at the longitudinal ends 12', W2 should be equal to or greater than W1, as shown in Figure 3B. However, if the web 12 has some inherent stiffness against bending, it is sufficient for W2 to be at least 90% of W1.

[0047] Applicant has found that support elements 26 of Figures 3A-3B are likely to interfere with disinfection / sterilization of web 12 because support elements 26 partially block web 12. This effect remains even when support elements 26 are configured in a grid pattern.

[0048] To achieve both the guiding effect and proper disinfection / sterilization, the support element 26 is configured as a movable element within the housing. The movable element 26 is also referred to herein as a "web guide." The web guide 26 is movably disposed between a first position, as shown in FIGS. 3A-3B, and a second position in which the web guide 26 is spaced from the path of travel.

[0049] An example is shown in FIG. 3C, where web guide 26 is arranged to rotate between a first position, designated I, and a second position, designated II. Position I is the service position, and position II is the production position. In position I, support surface 26' is arranged to extend between ports 23, 24 along path of travel TP, similar to support surface 26' in FIGS. 3A-3B. In position II, support surface 26' is pivoted away from path of travel TP to conceal or expose lower planar surface 12" of web 12. In some embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 3C, web guide 26 is rotated approximately 90° between the first and second positions. Rotation of web guide 26 is easily accomplished in a space-efficient manner.

[0050] Another embodiment is shown in Figure 3D, in which web guide 26 is instead arranged for translation between positions I and II. Position I is the same as in Figure 3C. In position II, support surface 26' has approximately the same orientation as in position I, but is spaced away from travel path TP.

[0051] Typically, the MMA 25 is fixedly mounted within the housing 21 and must have free access to the surface of the web 12 during disinfection / sterilization. For example, the MMA 25 may irradiate the web 12 from one or more specific locations, spray a fluid onto the web from one or more specific locations, or emit a vapor or aerosol for dispersion within the interior space 22. In the embodiment of FIGS. 3C-3D, the web guide 26 is positioned at position II to provide the MMA 25 with unobstructed access to the web 12. Unobstructed access ensures that the MMA 25 is operable to disinfect / sterilize all portions of the web 12. Unobstructed access may have different meanings depending on the MMA 25. If a vapor or aerosol is dispersed within the space 22, it may be sufficient to displace the support surface 26′ from the web 12 so that the vapor / aerosol can interact with all sides of the web 12. If the web is irradiated or sprayed, the web guide 26 may need to be moved out of the line of sight between the MMA 25 and the web 12.

[0052] A further embodiment is shown in FIG. 3E, in which the apparatus 20 includes two web guides 26, each with a respective support surface 26′. Similar to FIGS. 3C-3D, each web guide 26 has a position I where the web 12 is supported / guided and a position II where the web 12 is fully exposed to processing by the MMA 25. When both web guides 26 are moved to position I, the web 12 is guided into a narrow channel formed between the opposing support surfaces 26′. Using a single web guide 26 may help reduce the effects of curvature of the web 12 and improve guiding of the web end 12a through the housing 21. This may be particularly beneficial when the travel path TP is substantially parallel to the direction of gravity g, as shown in FIG. 3E. Note that the web guides 26 do not need to reach position I simultaneously. Alternatively, it may be beneficial to first position one web guide 26 at position I, insert the web 12 onto the support surface 26′ through the inlet port 23, and then position the other web guide 26 at position I.

[0053] As shown in FIGS. 3C-3E, the apparatus may include a sensor 200 positioned to generate a sensor signal indicating whether the web guide 26 is in position I or II. For example, the sensor signal may be used to indicate to an operator whether the web guide 26 is in position I or II, for example, on a display or via an indicator lamp. The sensor 200 may be positioned inside the housing 21, as shown, or outside the housing 21, for example, to sense the movement of a mechanical transmission coupled to the web guide 26. The sensor 20 may be a mechanical switch or any type of proximity sensor, such as an inductive, capacitive, photoelectric, or magnetic type. The apparatus 20 may include one sensor 200 for detecting position I and another sensor 200 for detecting position II. If a single sensor is used, it is preferable to position the sensor 200 to detect position II to positively confirm that the web guide 26 is clear of the web 12 within the housing 21.

[0054] Web guide 26 may be manually shifted between positions I and II, an example of which is shown in Figures 4-6 and further described below. Alternatively, apparatus 20 may include an electrically operated actuator (not shown) mechanically coupled to web guide 26 and operable to shift web guide 26 between positions I and II. The actuator may be controlled by a control signal from control unit 40 (see signal S2 in Figure 1A).

[0055] Regardless of how the web guide 26 is shifted, manually or electrically, the control unit 40 may be configured to operate the MMA 25 based on a sensor signal from the sensor 200. FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an exemplary method 700 performed by the control unit 40. In step SS1, the MMA 25 is disabled and therefore inoperable to perform disinfection / sterilization. This may be the default state of the MMA 25 or a state the MMA 25 reaches upon receiving a control signal from the control unit 40 (see S2 in FIG. 1A). In step SS2, the control unit 40 monitors the sensor signal to detect whether position II has been reached. If not, the control unit 40 returns to step SS1. If the sensor signal indicates that position II has been reached, the control unit 40 proceeds to step SS3 and sends a control signal to the apparatus 20 to enable the MMA 25. This makes the MMA 25 operable to perform disinfection / sterilization. Step SS3 also includes starting the MMA 25 to perform disinfection / sterilization. Alternatively, MMA 25 may be manually activated by an operator, for example, by pressing a dedicated button on apparatus 20 or on MMA 25. After step SS3, control unit 40 proceeds to step SS4, where it monitors the sensor signal to detect whether position I has been reached. If the sensor signal indicates that position I has been reached, the method returns to step SS1. It will be appreciated that method 700 ensures that disinfection / sterilization is performed only when web guide 24 is displaced from web 12.

[0056] 3C-3E, support surface 26' is substantially flat. This is advantageous for good control and guiding of web 12 with low friction. However, it is contemplated that support surface 26' may be curved, e.g., convex, relative to path of travel TP when web guide 26 is in position I. In another alternative, surface 26' may be corrugated, e.g., by ridges extending on surface 26' along path of travel TP when web guide 26 is in position I.

[0057] The support surface 26' may be solid or may include openings or holes. For example, the support surface 26' may be formed in the form of a grid or mesh.

[0058] 3C-3E, support surface 26' is positioned so as to be parallel to the elongated extent of ports 23, 24 when web guide 26 is in position I. For example, support surface 26' may be parallel to the elongated slit (see 24'' in FIGS. 4-6) of exit port 24. This facilitates guiding web end 12A through housing 21 to exit port 24.

[0059] FIG. 3F is a side view of web guide 26 relative to exit port 24 and is useful for illustrating some design parameters of apparatus 20. In the illustrated embodiment, port 24 comprises an elongated seal 24 mounted over access opening 124 in housing 21. Seal 24 includes a slit 24'' extending along elongated seal 24. Slit 24'' is positioned to receive web 12. As shown by the dashed line, interface C1 is defined by port 24 within the housing. Interface C1 is a geometric plane that coincides with the innermost point of port 24. In the illustrated example, interface C1 is defined by the innermost portion of seal 24. In other embodiments, interface C1 may instead be defined by the housing material around access opening 124.

[0060] One design parameter is represented as D1, which is the vertical distance from interface C1 to the leading edge 26A of support surface 26'. Note that support surface 26' may have a rectangular profile in plan view, but is not necessarily rectangular (see FIG. 3B). For example, leading edge 26A may have an irregular profile in plan view. As used herein, leading edge 26A refers to the portion of support surface 26' located closest to interface C1 at position I. This has been found to provide adequate guiding of web 12 to exit port 24. In some embodiments, the lower limit for D1 is 0.5 mm to reduce the effects of dimensional variations due to tolerances and / or temperature. In some embodiments, the upper limit for D1 is 40 mm, 30 mm, or 20 mm to further improve guiding characteristics, for example, to handle web 12 with a greater curvature at web edge 12A.

[0061] Another design parameter, designated as ΔD, is the distance from leading edge 26A to elongated slit 24″, measured parallel to interface C1. In some embodiments, ΔD is approximately zero. This may be appropriate when web 12 is known to lack curvature at web end 12A. In some embodiments, to handle curvature of web 12, ΔD is greater than zero but less than about 5 mm or 10 mm. The effect of curvature is illustrated in FIG. 3G, where support surface 26′ is positioned approximately perpendicular to interface C1 and leading edge 26A is displaced from slit 24″ by ΔD to steer web end 12A onto slit 24″. An alternative or complementary method of handling curvature is shown in FIG. 3H, where support surface 26′ is angled away from slit 24″ by an angle α that accounts for the curvature so that web end 12A is steered onto slit 24″.

[0062] The use of design parameters D1, ΔD, and α discussed above is an example of the general concept of configuring web guide 26 based on the known (nominal) curvature of web 12 to orient web end 12A onto exit port 24 when web guide 26 is in position I. As illustrated above, web guide 26 may be configured to position a sloped and / or offset support surface 26'' relative to elongated slit 24'' of exit port 24 to achieve this goal.

[0063] 4A-4B illustrate an exemplary sterilizer 20 with the web guide 26 in a service position (Position I), while FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate the sterilizer 20 with the web guide 26 in a production position (Position II). As shown in the perspective view of FIG. 4A, the sterilizer 20 includes an elongated housing 21 having the general shape of a rectangular cube. The housing 21 includes wall portions, some of which are part of a fixed frame structure and some of which are releasably attached to the frame structure. In the illustrated example, the frame structure includes an inlet wall 21A and an outlet wall 21B, which define an inlet access opening 123 and an outlet access opening 124, respectively. The top cover 21C is releasably attached to the frame structure by a bolt with a knob handle 27' configured for easy manual manipulation. The knob handle 27' thus forms a quick-release connector that is easily detached when the apparatus 20 needs to be disassembled for cleaning or other maintenance. Other types of quick-release connectors may also be used.

[0064] The inlet seal 23' covers the inlet access opening 123 and is positioned to protrude into the housing 21. The inlet mounting plate 28' defines an opening that matches the shape and position of the inlet access opening 123. The inlet seal 24' is sandwiched between the inlet mounting plate 28' and the inlet wall 21A. The inlet mounting plate 28' is attached to the inlet wall 21A by fasteners 27'', which in this example are nuts threaded onto threaded ends (not shown) that are positioned to protrude from the inlet wall 21A through mounting holes (not shown) in the mounting plate 28' and the seal 23'. The outlet seal 24' covers the outlet access opening 124 and is positioned to protrude from the housing 21. The outlet mounting plate 28'' defines an opening that matches the shape and position of the outlet 124. The outlet seal 24' is sandwiched between the mounting plate 28'' and the outlet wall 21B. The outlet mounting plate 28'' is attached to the outlet wall 21B by fasteners, in this example bolts with knob handles 27'. The bolts extend through mounting holes (not shown) in the mounting plate 28'', the seal 24' and the outlet wall 21B to engage nuts 27''' on the inside of the housing 21.

[0065] The inlet seal 23' and access opening 123 are part of the inlet port 23, and the outlet seal 24' and access opening 124 are part of the outlet port 24. Each seal 23', 24' includes an elongated slit 23'', 24''.

[0066] 4B and 5B, web guide 26 is rotatably disposed within housing 21 and is movable between positions I (FIG. 4B) and II (FIG. 5B) by rotation about rotation axis R. This position has the advantage of ensuring that the free end of web guide 26 faces away from inlet port 23, thereby eliminating the risk of web end 12A falling under web guide 26 upon entry through inlet port 23.

[0067] 4B and 5B, it can also be seen that the rotation axis R extends parallel to the inlet port 23. This simplifies the construction of the web guide 26.

[0068] As shown in FIGS. 4A and 5B, web guide 26 can be configured to define a guide surface 26'' adjacent to support surface 26'. Guide surface 26'' is joined to support surface 26' and is inclined away from support surface 26'. As shown in FIG. 4B, when web guide 26 is in position I, guide surface 26'' is positioned intermediate support surface 26' and inlet port 23 and bridges the gap therebetween along travel path TP. The inclined guide surface 26'' can guide web end 12A from inlet port 23 onto support surface 26' even if web end 12A has a large curvature.

[0069] In the illustrated embodiment, web guide 26 includes a rod 210 that extends along the elongated extent of housing 21 and is arranged to rotate within housing 21. Rod 210 is an integral part of web guide 26. An end 211 of rod 210 is arranged to protrude through end wall 21D of housing 21. A linkage 220 is connected to protruding end portion 211 and attached by a fastener 211′ (here, a nut). A manipulator 222 is disposed on linkage 220 and is operable to rotate web guide 26 between Position I and Position II within housing 21. A locking element 221 is disposed in end wall 21D and has an opening for engaging a locking pin of manipulator 222. The locking pin is biased toward end wall 21D. To move web guide 26 within the housing, an operator pulls manipulator 222 away from end wall 21D and swings manipulator 222 to the right or left. When the operator releases the manipulator 22 into proper alignment with the opening in the locking element 221, the locking pin snaps into the opening, locking the web guide 26 in place.

[0070] Note that in FIGS. 4A and 5A, the connector 220 is positioned to have the same orientation as the web guide 26.

[0071] 4B and 5B, it can be seen that the seals 23', 24' are configured to protrude through the access openings 123, 124 in the housing 21. The entrance seal 23' is configured to protrude into the housing 21, and the exit seal 24' is configured to protrude from the housing 21. This positions the seals 23', 24' to protrude in the feed direction of the web 12 along the travel path TP through the housing. The protruding shape of the seals 23', 24' allows each seal 23', 24' to be configured with two opposing guide surfaces 23''', 24''' that extend along the elongated seal 23', 24' and taper toward the slits 23'', 24''. The guide surfaces 23''', 24''' face in a direction opposite to the feed direction of the web 12 through the housing 21 (see 100 in FIG. 1A). This configuration of seals 23', 24' may facilitate the insertion of web end 12A into the respective slits 23', 24'. Web end 12A is guided through contact with guide surfaces 23'', 24'' to and through the respective slits 23', 24'.

[0072] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus 20 of FIGS. 4-5. In FIG. 6, the web guide 26 is set to position II while the web 12 is being inserted into the housing. As shown, even a moderate amount of curvature in the web 12 can cause the web end 12A to slip out of the exit port 24. The curvature of the web 12 can be exacerbated by the action of gravity, depending on the orientation of the housing relative to gravity. Note also that without the support surface 26', gravity can twist the web 12 about its longitudinal axis, potentially causing the web end 12A to become non-parallel with the slit 24' in the exit port 24. All of these problems are alleviated by shifting the web guide 26 to position I.

Claims

1. 1. An apparatus for reducing the presence of microorganisms on a web material (12), said apparatus comprising: a housing (21) defining an interior space (22); an inlet port (23) and an outlet port (24), the inlet port (23) and the outlet port (24) being disposed on the housing (21), the inlet port (23) and the outlet port (24) being movable along a movement path (TP) through the interior space (22) between the inlet port (23) and the outlet port (24), the inlet port (23) and the outlet port (24) being elongated and comprising elongated seals (23', 24') in flexural engagement with the web material (12); a structure (25) for reducing the presence of microorganisms on the web material (12) within the interior space (22); Equipped with The apparatus further comprises: a movable element (26) having a support surface (26'), the movable element (26) being disposed within the housing (21), the movable element (26) being movable between a first position (I) where the support surface (26') is disposed along the path of travel (TP) so as to direct the leading end (12A) of the web material (12) from the inlet port (23) to the outlet port (24), and a second position (II) where the support surface (26') is spaced from the path of travel (TP); Device.

2. When the movable element (26) is in the second position (II), the support surface (26') is spaced from the path of travel (TP) to allow the component (25), which is fixedly arranged in the housing (21), to have unobstructed access to the web material (12) in order to reduce the presence of microorganisms on the web material (12).

10. The apparatus of claim 1.

3. The movable element (26) further includes a sensor (200) arranged to generate a signal indicative of the first position (I) or the second position (II).

3. The device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. and a control unit (40) configured to operate the arrangement (25) based on a signal from the sensor (200).

4. The apparatus of claim 3.

5. The control unit (40) is configured to disable the arrangement (25) when the movable element (26) is in the first position (I) and to enable the arrangement (25) when the movable element (26) is in the second position (II).

5. The apparatus of claim 4.

6. the outlet port (24) comprises an access opening (124) in the housing (1) and an elongated seal (24') arranged to cover the access opening (124), the access opening (124) and / or the elongated seal (24') defining a boundary surface (C1) of the outlet port (24) in the housing (21), and when the movable element (26) is in the first position (I), the support surface (26') is tilted and / or shifted relative to the boundary surface (C1) based on a predetermined curvature of the web material (12) to direct a leading end (12A) of the web material (12) towards the outlet port (24). An apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. When the movable element (26) is in the first position (I), a front end (26A) of the support surface (26') is located at the outlet port (24), and a first distance (D1) between the front end (26A) and the boundary surface (C1) and perpendicular to the boundary surface (C1) is in the range of 0 to 50 mm, preferably in the range of 0.5 to 40 mm.

7. The apparatus of claim 6.

8. the elongated seal (24) defines an elongated slit (24'') for receiving the web material (2), and when the movable element (26) is in the first position (I), the front end (26A) of the support surface (26') is within a second distance (ΔD) from the support surface (26'), the second distance (ΔD) is within the second distance (ΔD) from the elongated slit (24'') parallel to the boundary surface (C1), and is located at the second distance (ΔD) from the elongated slit (24'') parallel to the boundary surface (C1), the second distance (ΔD) being within a range of 0 to 10 mm, preferably within a range of 0 to 5 mm; 8. The apparatus of claim 7.

9. the movable element (26) further comprises a guide surface (26'') joined to the support surface (26') and inclined away from the support surface (26'), the guide surface (26'') being disposed midway between the support surface (26') and the inlet port (23) along the path of travel (TP) so as to direct the leading end (12A) of the web material (12) from the inlet port (23) onto the support surface (26') when the movable element (26) is in the first position (I); An apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. at least one of the elongated seals (23, 24) comprises two opposing guide surfaces (23'', 24'') extending along one of the elongated seals (23, 24) and tapering towards an elongated slit (23'', 24'') in the seal (23, 24), the opposing guide surfaces (23'', 24'') being arranged to guide the leading end (12A) of the web material (12), and the opposing guide surfaces (23'''', 24''') being adapted to receive the web material (12) to guide the leading end (12a) of the web material (12) towards the elongated slit (23'', 24''); An apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The width (W2) of the support surface (26') is 90% of the width (W1) of the web material (12), or is equal to the width (W1) of the web material (12), or is greater than the width (W1) of the web material (12); An apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. the movable element (26) is movable between the first position and the second position (I, II) by rotation about a rotation axis (R); An apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. The movable element (26) comprises a rod (210) arranged to rotate within the housing (21) and having an end (211) arranged to protrude through a wall (21D) of the housing (21).

13. The apparatus of claim 12.

14. The rotation axis (R) is located below the inlet port (23), 14. Apparatus according to claim 12 or 13.

15. 1. A system for manufacturing a package, comprising: a supply device (10) for a web material (12); An apparatus (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, arranged to receive the web material (12) from a supply device (10) and operable to reduce the presence of microorganisms on the web material (12); a filling machine configured to receive the web material (12) from the apparatus (20) and process the web material (12) into packages (50); A system comprising:

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