Vacuum skin pack packaging machine

Abstract

To provide a vacuum skin pack packaging machine improved in safety and operability.SOLUTION: A vacuum skin pack packaging machine according to an embodiment includes a first chamber 30 on a movable side having a heater plate therein, a second chamber 20 provided to face the first chamber, a vacuum pump configured to evacuate the first chamber and the second chamber, at least one tray base unit 210 mounted in the second chamber, and a tray auxiliary member 203 having an inner shape similar to a shape of a tray and disposed on an inner periphery of the tray base unit, 203, the inside of a chamber is decompressed by a vacuum pump in a state of being covered with a skin film, moving a first chamber, and closing the first chamber and a second chamber, and the skin film softened by a heater plate is brought into close contact with a tray.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a vacuum skin pack packaging machine. [Background technology]

[0002] Vacuum packaging is a packaging method in which the air is removed from a packaging bag containing the packaged item and then sealed. Vacuum packaging can prevent the contents from deteriorating, and is widely used in the food and industrial fields, for example.

[0003] One type of vacuum packaging that has become common in recent years is skin packs made using vacuum skin packing machines. Vacuum skin packing machines sandwich the packaged item, typically food, between a film and a backing, and then heat-press the gap between them to create a complete seal, i.e., a vacuum pack. Because vacuum skin packing machines create a complete seal, they suppress dripping, which is the moisture released from food during storage, and are widely used as a method to maintain food freshness and extend its expiration date.

[0004] A vacuum skin pack packaging machine is known that can produce skin pack packaging bags that adhere strongly to the surface of a tray made of a floating polystyrene pressure roller without the risk of cohesive failure, do not flip up during normal handling, maintain a closed state, can be easily opened, and are suitable for packaging foods heated in a microwave oven (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0005] There is also a skin pack packaging manufacturing device that produces skin pack packages by placing the packaged item between a base material and a heated film and degassing the space between the base material and the film, and that is equipped with a heating section that heats the film, a film conveying section that conveys the film from the heating section, and a degassing section that is located downstream of the heating section in the film conveying direction and that degasses the space between the base material and the film in an operating state where the packaged item is placed between the heated film and the base material (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

[0006] The vacuum skin pack packaging machine is required to be designed to be able to easily handle a wide variety of trays with different shapes and sizes. Also, since it has a built-in heater plate to heat the skin film to 100°C or higher, it is essential to ensure safety during operation. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-189243 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-136605 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] The problem to be solved by the invention is to provide a vacuum skin pack packaging machine with improved safety and operability. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The vacuum skin pack packaging machine of one embodiment includes a movable first chamber having a built-in heater plate inside, a second chamber facing the first chamber, a vacuum pump for evacuating the first and second chambers, at least one tray base unit installed in the second chamber, and a tray support member whose inside is similar to the shape of a tray and is arranged around the inner periphery of the tray base unit. A tray carrying an item to be packaged is placed along the tray support member of the tray base unit and covered with a skin film. The first chamber is moved to close the first and second chambers, and the inside of the chamber formed by the first and second chambers is depressurized by the vacuum pump. The skin film, softened by the heat of the heater plate, is brought into close contact with the tray, thereby producing a skin pack package. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1A and 1B are a side view and a perspective view showing the external shape of a vacuum skin pack packaging machine according to an embodiment, with a rolled film F placed at the rear of the upper surface of the upper chamber. [Figure 2] 2A and 2B are a perspective view and a side view of the roll film F shown in FIG. 1 when it is lifted to a film attachment position. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the film attachment position in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] 10 is a diagram showing a one-touch locking member attached to the rotation shaft of the roll film F. FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a vacuum skin pack device. [Figure 6] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of a tray support member. [Figure 7] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing the shape of a lid portion provided on the top surface of the tray base unit. [Figure 8] 10 is a diagram showing the shape of a cutter that cuts rolled film F and a film cutter groove. FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 shows the configuration between the heater plate and the handle of the upper chamber. [Figure 10] 1A and 1B are a perspective view and a side view of a vacuum skin pack packaging machine 1 loaded with a roll of film F and ready to operate. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the shape of a heater plate attached to the inside of the upper chamber. [Figure 12] 1A and 1B are perspective views showing two cutter-integrated tray stands stored in the lower chamber, where (a) shows the state in which the pattern cutter is not visible, and (b) shows the state in which the pattern cutter is raised. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a view showing a state in which a tray is placed on one of the cutter-integrated tray stands in the lower chamber. [Figure 14] 2A and 2B are cross-sectional views of the lower chamber taken along lines AA and BB, respectively, with the pattern cutter not visible. [Figure 15]FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the lower chamber taken along line AA with the pattern cutter raised. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the lower chamber taken along a line B-B in FIG. [Figure 17] 1A and 1B are a perspective view, a top view, and a side cross-sectional view of a pattern cutter attached to a tray base with an integrated cutter. [Figure 18] 1A and 1B are a perspective view, a top view, and a side cross-sectional view of a tray base with an integrated cutter, with the pattern cutter not visible. [Figure 19] 1A and 1B are a perspective view, a top view, and a side cross-sectional view of a cutter-integrated tray base with a pattern cutter raised; [Figure 20] 10A and 10B show an embodiment of an air bag that raises and lowers a cutter plate provided in the lower chamber. [Figure 21] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a control system of the vacuum skin pack packaging machine of FIG. 1. [Figure 22] This is a diagram showing the operating state of setting a tray base unit with an integrated cutter that is compatible with a skin-packed product, such as a food tray T, in the lower chamber. [Figure 23] This is a diagram showing the operating state of a vacuum skin pack packaging machine in which a tray T carrying an item to be packaged (workpiece) W is placed on the tray table unit of the lower chamber. [Figure 24] This is a diagram showing the operating state when the skin film F is placed over the lower chamber without wrinkles. [Figure 25] 10 is a diagram showing the operation state of evacuation by a vacuum pump and cutting of the skin film F by a cut heater. FIG. [Figure 26] 10 is a diagram showing the operating state of the vacuum skin pack packaging machine when the skin film F is preheated. [Figure 27] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the operating state when the skin film F is pre-stretched. [Figure 28] 10 is a diagram showing the operating state when the skin film F is heated and the upper chamber is evacuated. FIG. [Figure 29]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the operating state of the vacuum skin pack packaging machine when the evacuation of the upper chamber is stopped and the lower chamber is being additionally evacuated. [Figure 30] This is a diagram showing the operating state when the upper chamber is softly opened and the skin film F is slowly brought into close contact with the tray T. [Figure 31] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the operating state when the skin film F is in complete contact. [Figure 32] 10 is a diagram showing the operating state when cutting the outer peripheral film of the tray T. FIG. [Figure 33] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an operating state when the raised cutter plate is stored. [Figure 34] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an operating state when the upper chamber and the lower chamber are opened to the atmosphere. [Figure 35] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an operating state when the upper chamber is opened. [Figure 36] 10 is a diagram showing the operating state when removing a skin-packed tray T from the lower chamber. FIG. [Figure 37] 10 is a diagram showing the operation state when removing the skin film F that remains inside and outside the lower chamber. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, a vacuum skin pack packaging machine according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In this specification and the drawings, components having substantially the same functional configurations are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0012] (Configuration of vacuum skin pack packaging machine) Fig. 1(a) is a side view of the vacuum skin pack packaging machine 1 when a roll of film F is placed on the top surface of the upper chamber, and Fig. 1(b) is a perspective view of the roll of film F moving to the rear of the upper chamber as the upper chamber, which serves as the lid, is opened. Fig. 2 is a perspective view and a side view of the roll of film F being lifted to the film attachment position as the upper chamber is opened. Fig. 3 is an enlarged view of the film attachment position in Fig. 2. Fig. 4 is a view of the roll of film F with a one-touch locking member attached to the rotation axis.

[0013] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the vacuum skin pack packaging machine 1 includes a substantially rectangular housing 10 that houses a vacuum pump and the like. The external dimensions of the vacuum skin pack packaging machine 1 are, for example, W 650 mm × D 630 mm × H 1400 mm. A lower chamber 20 (also referred to as a lower chamber or a second chamber) is provided on top of the housing 10. An upper chamber 30 (also referred to as an upper chamber or a first chamber) which serves as a lid is provided on top of the lower chamber 20. The upper chamber 30 is connected to two pairs of left and right movement support members 30b, 30c attached to a fixing member 30a provided on the rear top surface of the housing 10.

[0014] The upper chamber 30 can move up and down while tilted slightly backward by the action of the two pairs of movement support members 30b, 30c, thereby opening and closing the lower chamber 20. The upper chamber 30 is joined (adhered) to the lower chamber 20 to form a chamber for use as a skin pack. An operation panel 11 is provided on the front of the housing 10. An operator of the vacuum skin pack packaging machine 1 operates this operation panel 11 to start and stop skin packing. In addition, the operation panel 11 can be used to set the operating conditions for the skin pack, such as vacuum conditions, heating time, and heating temperature.

[0015] Film mounting sections are provided on both rear sides of the housing 10. The film mounting sections have legs 40 on both sides to which the rolled film F is attached, connecting plates 42 that reinforce and connect the legs 40, film mounting grooves 44 provided on the front sides of the upper tips of the legs 40 and into which the left and right rotation shafts F1 of the rolled film F are loaded (set), and inclined surfaces 46 on the front sides of the legs 40. In addition, a pair of left and right loading rails 30aa, 30bb are provided on the top surface of the upper chamber 30 to reduce the contact surface with the rolled film F and make it easier for the rolled film F to roll. The loading rails 30aa, 30bb are made of, for example, resin or plastic.

[0016] As shown in Figure 1(a), the operator places rolled film F on the loading rails 30aa, 30bb on the top surface of upper chamber 30. The loading position is not important as long as it is on loading rails 30aa, 30bb of upper chamber 30. This is because, when upper chamber 30 is opened, upper chamber 30 is lifted upward while tilted slightly backward (toward legs 40), so rolled film F rolls down loading rails 30aa, 30bb of upper chamber 30 and reaches inclined surface 46 of legs 40 as shown in Figure 1(b).

[0017] FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the film mounting position in FIG. 2, where (a) shows the state when the upper chamber 30 is raised to the highest position, and (b) shows the state when the rotation axis F1 of the roll film F rolls down the inclined portion 44a that slopes backward and is loaded into the film mounting groove portion 44.

[0018] 4(a) and (B) show a one-touch locking member 50 attached to the rotation shaft F1 of the roll film F. The one-touch locking member 50 is a fixing member that can be attached / detached with a single touch when loading the roll film F onto the rotation shaft F1. The one-touch locking member 50 is attached to, for example, the right end of the rotation shaft F1. By pressing a lock button 51 attached to the one-touch locking member 50, the locking member 50 can be attached to the rotation shaft F1.

[0019] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, when initially setting the rolled film F on the film attachment portion, the operator first sets the rolled film F on the placement rails 30aa and 30bb on the top surface of the upper chamber 30. Next, the worker grasps the handle 301 of the upper chamber 30 and lifts the upper chamber 30 upward (opening the lid). Then, due to the action of the movement support members 30b and 30c, the upper chamber 30 becomes tilted slightly backward, and the rolled film F rolls on the loading rails 30aa and 30bb of the upper chamber 30 and reaches the inclined surface 46 of the leg portion 40 as shown in FIG. 1(b).

[0020] When the upper chamber 30 is further lifted, the rolled film F is also lifted along the front inclined surfaces 46 of the legs 40 as shown in FIG. When the upper chamber 30 is raised to the top position, it assumes the configuration shown in Figure 3(a). Then, as shown in Figure 3(b), the rotation axis F1 of the roll film F rolls down the rearward inclined portion 44a and is loaded into the film mounting groove portion 44.

[0021] As a result, the task of transporting the heavy rolled film F can be completed simply by setting it at the rear top surface of the upper chamber 30. Then, by opening the lid to move the upper chamber 30 to the top position, the rolled film F can be set in the film mounting groove 44. This significantly reduces the burden on the worker when loading the rolled film F. The locking member 50 makes it easy to load and position the rolled film F on the rotation shaft F1.

[0022] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the vacuum skin pack device 1 as seen from the front. Two cutter-integrated tray base units 210, 220 are mounted (loaded) in the lower chamber 20. A tray support member 203, the inside of which is tray-shaped, is attached to the tray base units 210, 220. A lid portion 205 is attached to the center of the tray base units 210, 220. A film cutter groove 208 is formed at the rear of the lower chamber 20. The tray support member 203 has an inside shape similar to that of a tray T, and is arranged around the inner periphery of the tray base units 210, 220.

[0023] 6(a) to 6(c) show examples of the tray support member 203. In FIG. 6(a), an octagonal shape 203a is shown as a shape similar to the shape of the tray T on which the packaged item W is placed. In FIG. 6(b), an oval shape 203b is shown as a shape similar to the shape of the tray T on which the packaged item W is placed. In FIG. 6(c), a decagonal shape 203c is shown as a shape similar to the shape of the tray T on which the packaged item W is placed. The tray support member 203 has a thickness of several millimeters (e.g., approximately 3 to 5 mm). By setting it on the tray stand unit 210, 220, it can be easily positioned when placing the tray T. The shape of the tray support member 203 is not limited to that shown in FIG. 6; it is sufficient to prepare a member that matches the shape of the tray T in advance. A rubber magnet may be attached to the backside of the tray support member 203. This allows for easy attachment and detachment to and from the tray stand unit 210, 220.

[0024] 7(a) and (b) show the shape of the lid portion 205 provided on the upper surface of the tray stand units 210 and 220. Here, the tray stand unit 210 is shown, but the tray stand unit 220 is the same. When the skin pack is manufactured, the lid portion 205 is attached tightly to the upper surface of the lower chamber 20. For this reason, when replacing or removing the tray base units 210, 220, it is desirable to be able to easily lift the tray base units 210, 220. Therefore, as shown in Figure 5, the lid portion 205 is configured to be attached to the center of the tray base units 210, 220.

[0025] 7(b), when the cover 205 is removed, finger holes 205a-205d are provided for inserting, for example, four fingers, and a lower middle plate 205e is provided in the center. When the cover 205 is positioned on the middle plate 205e, a step is formed so that the bottom surfaces of the tray stand units 210 and 220 form a flat surface. Therefore, during the skin packing operation, the lid portion 205 forms a flat surface on which the tray T is placed, as shown in FIG. 5. On the other hand, when replacing or removing the tray base units 210, 220, one end of the lid portion 205 is pressed down, as shown in FIG. 7(c). This causes a seesaw action, causing the lid portion 205 to assume a tilted shape due to the middle plate 205e, and if it continues to move in this state, it will assume the shape shown in FIG. 7(a). Then, as shown in FIG. 7(b), the four finger holes 205a to 205d are exposed, and by inserting four fingers excluding the little finger into the finger holes 205a to 205d, the tray base units 210, 220 can be lifted from the lower chamber 20.

[0026] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the shape of the roll film cutter and cutter groove that cuts the roll film F. As shown in Figure 8, cutter groove blocks 208a and 208b that form cutter groove 208 are provided in parallel at the rear of lower chamber 20. Weak adhesive tapes 208aa and 208bb are affixed to the upper surfaces of cutter groove blocks 208a and 208b. Meanwhile, at the rear of the upper chamber, roll film cutter 209 is provided opposite cutter groove 208, with a length equal to or greater than the width of roll film F. Cutter groove 208 is a cutting blade groove along which roll film cutter 209 moves up and down.

[0027] Then, at the timing to cut the rolled film F, the vacuum pump lowers the rolled film cutter 209 to cut the rolled film F. At this time, the movement of the rolled film F is restricted by adhesive tapes 208aa and 208bb attached to the upper surfaces of the cutter groove blocks 208a and 208b, and a wrinkle-free horizontal surface is provided, allowing for smooth cutting.

[0028] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the configuration between the heater plate 31 and the handle 301 of the upper chamber. The heater plate 31 is attached to the entire inner surface of the upper chamber 30. The heater plate 31 is provided to be heated to 100° C. or higher to soften the skin film F. The heat from the heater plate 31 causes the handle 301 of the upper chamber 30 to become too hot to grip. Therefore, a heat-resistant member (e.g., a highly heat-resistant resin or polyacetal) 302 is attached between the handle 301 and the heater plate 31. The heat-resistant member 302 blocks heat conduction from the heater plate 31, ensuring the safety of the handle 301.

[0029] Figure 10 shows a perspective view and a side view of the vacuum skin pack packaging machine 1 loaded with a roll of film F and ready to operate. The machine can continue to operate in the state shown in Figure 10 until the roll of film F loaded in the film mounting section is used up. If it becomes necessary to replace the rolled film F with another one during the process, or if you wish to remove the rolled film F, simply carry out the reverse of the operation shown in Figure 2. That is, after lifting the upper chamber 30 to the top position and moving the rolled film F to the rear of the upper surface of the upper chamber 30, the rolled film F can be easily removed by pressing down the upper chamber 30 to close the lid.

[0030] 5, the opening 201 of the lower chamber 20 of the vacuum skin pack packaging machine 1 has a space large enough to accommodate, for example, two tray base units 210, 220, making it possible to skin pack two items to be packaged at the same time. The number of trays T to be skin packed may be designed according to the size of the vacuum skin pack packaging machine 1. The size of the lower chamber 20 is, for example, 440 mm wide x 340 mm deep x 40 mm high.

[0031] As will be described in detail later, a tray T carrying an item (workpiece) to be skin-packed is set (placed) along the inner periphery of the tray support member 203 on the tray stand units 210, 220 mounted in the lower chamber 20. The size of the tray T is, for example, W170mm x H280mm. The size of the workpiece to be skin-packed is, for example, W130mm x D240mm x H30mm. The items to be skin-packed (workpieces) include meats such as fish, beef, pork, and chicken, vegetables, as well as foods such as cooked foods, processed foods, and frozen foods, as well as industrial products such as substrates. In other words, anything that can be skin-packed is acceptable.

[0032] The rolled film F (hereafter referred to as skin film F) used to pack the tray on which the packaged item (work) is placed is a laminated film made of a resin material such as polyethylene, and preferably has barrier properties. The skin film F softens when heated at a predetermined temperature or higher (softening temperature) for a predetermined time, and at least one surface, specifically the surface facing the packaged item W, becomes capable of adhering to the packaged item (work) and tray. The vacuum skin pack packaging machine 1 uses a skin film F with a softening temperature of 130°C and a heating time of approximately 10 seconds, for example.

[0033] The tray is a flat cardboard on which the packaged item (work) is placed, and preferably has barrier properties similar to those of the skin film F. From the standpoints of cost and heat insulation, a tray made of a resin material such as polystyrene foam may be used, but a paper tray is preferred.

[0034] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the shape of the inside of the upper chamber 30. As shown in FIG. As shown in Fig. 11, a heater plate 31 is attached to the entire inner surface of the upper chamber 30. In Fig. 11, the heater plate 31 is in an upright position so that the inner surface of the heater plate 31 can be seen. The heater plate 31 is formed, for example, in a substantially rectangular flat plate shape, and is energized and controlled by a control device 400 (see FIG. 21 ), which will be described later. The heater plate 31 is heated to 100°C or higher when adjacent to the skin film F, and therefore can soften the skin film F.

[0035] The heater plate 31 has a large number of vent holes 32 drilled at regular intervals. Air is supplied via a connecting pipe (not shown) attached to the back of the heater plate 31, and is ejected from the large number of vent holes 32. This action presses the heated skin film F from above (the opposing surface) with the air, and the lower chamber 20 is evacuated, thereby allowing the skin film F to adhere tightly to the packaged item (work) on the tray. Compressible packing 33 is attached to the outer periphery of the four sides of the heater plate 31, improving adhesion when the upper chamber 30 is placed on top of the lower chamber 20. The surface of the heater plate 31 is also treated (for example, coated with a fluororesin) to prevent the skin film F from sticking.

[0036] The upper chamber 30 is formed so that its front-to-rear and left-to-right dimensions correspond to those of the lower chamber 20. Both the left and right sides of the upper chamber 30 are connected to one end of a movement support member 305 so as to be movable up and down. This allows the upper chamber 30 to move up and down freely by the action of the movement support member 305. The upper chamber 30 can move up and down (open and close) from the position shown in FIG. 5 to the position shown in FIG. 10, for example.

[0037] The upper chamber 30 positioned as shown in FIG. 10 can airtightly close the opening 201 (see FIG. 5) of the lower chamber 20, and in this state the upper chamber 30 and the lower chamber 20 are sealed from each other. In other words, the lower chamber 20 and the upper chamber 30 function as lids for both. A handle 301 is provided on the front of the upper chamber 30, and an operator can easily raise and lower the upper chamber 30 by grasping the handle 301 and moving it up and down. The upper chamber 30 may be raised and lowered manually, or the control device 400, described later, may operate a drive device such as a motor in response to operation on the operation panel 11 to raise and lower the upper chamber 30.

[0038] Next, the internal structure of the lower chamber 20 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of two cutter-integrated tray stands stored in the lower chamber 20, where (a) shows a state in which the pattern cutter 240 is not visible, and (b) shows a state in which the pattern cutter 240 is raised. FIG. 13 shows a state in which a tray T carrying packaged items (workpieces) W is placed on a cutter-integrated tray stand unit stored in the lower chamber 20. FIG. 14 shows AA and BB cross-sectional views of the lower chamber 20 with the pattern cutter 240 not visible. FIGS. 15 and 16 show AA and BB cross-sectional views of the lower chamber 20 with the pattern cutter 240 raised. FIG. 17 shows a perspective view, a top view, and a side cross-sectional view of the pattern cutter 240 attached to the cutter-integrated tray stand unit 210. FIG. 18 shows a perspective view, a top view, and a side cross-sectional view of the cutter-integrated tray stand unit 210 with the pattern cutter 240 not visible. Fig. 19 shows a perspective view, a top view, and a side cross-sectional view of the cutter-integrated tray stand unit 210 with the pattern cutter 240 raised. Fig. 20 shows an embodiment of an air bag 500 that raises and lowers the cutter plate 290 provided in the lower chamber 30.

[0039] As shown in Figure 12(a), the lower chamber 20 houses two cutter-integrated tray base units 210, 220 shown in Figure 14 or 15. In other words, the lower chamber 20 is designed to be wide enough to accommodate the two tray base units 210, 220. Therefore, if a tray base unit according to the size of the packaged item (work) W is prepared in advance, various skin packs can be produced with good workability simply by setting (replacing) it in the lower chamber 20 in a cassette format. There may be only one tray base unit that fits the opening 201.

[0040] As shown in Figure 12(b), the tray stand units 210, 220 each have a built-in pattern cutter 240 that cuts the skin film F that is in close contact with the tray T. A cutter groove 230, which is a gap that allows the pattern cutter 240 to move up and down, is formed on the outer periphery of the tray T placement area of ​​the tray stand units 210, 220.

[0041] As shown in Figure 12(a), the pattern cutter 240 is not visible when the tray stand units 210, 220 are stored in the lower chamber 20. In the process of cutting the skin film F that is in close contact with the tray T by the skin pack operation, as shown in Figure 12(b), the pattern cutter 240 pops out of the cutter groove 230 and cuts the skin film F on the outer periphery of the tray T. Details of these skin pack operations will be described later.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 12(a), adhesive members 250a-250d with weak adhesive strength are attached to the outer peripheral region (outer peripheral surface portion 291b1, described later) between the outer periphery of the tray stand units 210, 220 and the cutter groove 230 (see FIG. 14 or 15 for details). When the pattern cutter 240 is quickly pushed up (thrusts up) to cut the skin film F from below, there is a risk that the skin film F, which has been in close contact with the tray T, may lift up (peel off). By attaching the adhesive members 250a-250d, it is possible to prevent lifting up during the cutting operation. The adhesive members 250a-250d are used to attach grippable members with weak adhesive strength (for example, tape, stickers, sheets, etc.).

[0043] The skin film F is guided by a guide roller (not shown) provided on the rear side of the lower chamber 20 and can be pulled out so as to cover the entire upper surface of the lower chamber 20 . Fig. 13 shows a state in which a tray T carrying packaged items (workpieces) W is set on the tray table units 210, 220. When the worker sets the tray T in the state shown in Fig. 13, he or she pulls out the skin film F to cover the upper side of the lower chamber 20. Then, the worker closes the upper chamber 30 as a lid so that it tightly contacts the lower chamber 20, and starts the skin pack operation.

[0044] 13, areas for attaching adhesive members 260a-260c may be provided on the upper outer frame of the lower chamber 20. These adhesive members 260a-260c can fix the skin film F so that it does not move when the upper side of the lower chamber 20 is covered with the skin film F, thereby preventing wrinkles from occurring in the skin film F and allowing for smooth skin packing.

[0045] FIG. 14 shows a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA and a cross-sectional view taken along the line BB of the lower chamber 20 when the pattern cutter 240 is in the standby position (setting state). Connecting pipes 270, 275 are connected to the bottom surface of the lower chamber 20 in correspondence with the tray stand units 210, 220 to reduce the pressure in the lower chamber 20 using a vacuum pump 410 and to raise the pattern cutter 240. Reinforcing frames 280, 285 are also attached to the bottom surface of the lower chamber 20 to reinforce the strength of the lower chamber 20. When the skin pack evacuation process is started, the air inside the lower chamber 20 is evacuated (reduced in pressure) by the vacuum pump 410 via the connecting pipes 270, 275. As a result, the heated and softened skin film F is pressed against the upper chamber 30 by air from above, and at the same time the lower chamber 20 is evacuated, so that the skin film F is drawn toward the tray T and comes into close contact with it.

[0046] FIG. 15 shows the shape of the lower chamber 20 when the pattern cutter 240 is pushed up (when the cutting operation is performed), and its cross section taken along line AA, and FIG. 16 shows its cross section taken along line BB. In the skin pack cutting process, the pattern cutter 240 jumps out of the cutter groove 230 and cuts the skin film F. That is, air from the vacuum pump 410 is sent through the connecting pipes 270 and 275, and the cutter plates 290 and 295 to which the pattern cutter 240 is attached are quickly pushed up, thereby cutting the outer periphery of the tray T of the tightly adhered skin film F. When the operation of the vacuum pump 410 is stopped after the cutting operation, the cutter plates 290 and 295 return to the standby position shown in FIG. 14 by the spring coils described below.

[0047] 17 shows a perspective view, a top view, an AA cross-sectional view, and a BB cross-sectional view of the cutter plate 290. Here, the cutter plate 290 will be described, but the cutter plate 295 also has the same shape. The cutter plate 290 cuts the skin film F around (the outer periphery of) the tray T to produce one finished skin pack. Therefore, the cutter plate 290 has an inner box shape with an upward-facing blade portion in order to cut the outer periphery of the tray T.

[0048] The pattern cutter 240 may have a blade formed at its upward tip that is an integrated (annular) cutter, or may have standard cutters arranged on all four sides and connected together. For example, the standard cutter may be a blade in which a replacement blade (approximately 10 mm wide) for a stationery cutter knife is tightly arranged on the outer periphery of the cutter plate 290. When the replacement blade becomes dull, it is easy to replace only the blade in that location. It can also accommodate a variety of sizes. Air intake parts 290a to 290d (for example, four parts) connected to a vacuum pump 410 are provided inside the cutter plate 290. When the vacuum pump 410 is operated to evacuate the lower chamber 20, the air inside the lower chamber 20 is evacuated through the air intake parts 290a to 290d.

[0049] Figure 18 shows a perspective view, a top view, an AA cross-sectional view, and a BB cross-sectional view of a cutter-integrated tray stand unit 210 incorporating the cutter plate 290 of Figure 17. Here, the tray stand unit 210 will be described, but the tray stand unit 220 also has the same shape. The tray stand unit 210 has a bottom plate 291a, a top plate 291b, and multiple support columns 291c connecting the bottom plate 291a and the top plate 291b. The multiple support columns 291c ensure the height of the cutter plate 290. The top plate 291b has an outer peripheral surface portion 291b1 located outside the cutter groove 230 and an inner surface portion 291b2 on which the tray support member 203 inside the cutter groove 230 is set. In other words, the outer peripheral surface portion 291b1 and the inner surface portion 291b2 are adjacent to each other via the cutter groove 230, and each is screwed at its four corners. The tray support member 203 on the inner surface portion 291b2 serves as the mounting surface for the tray T. With the inner surface portion 291b2 removed, the cutter plate 290 is inserted and the inner surface portion 291b2 is attached to complete the tray stand unit 210 with an integrated cutter.

[0050] Support columns are attached to the bottom surface of the cutter plate 290 for the screws at the four corners that attach the inner surface portion 291b2, and spring coils 292a to 292d are inserted into the support columns. The action of the spring coils 292a to 292d allows the cutter plate 290, which has been pushed up, to return to its original position.

[0051] 19 is a perspective view, a top view, and a side cross-sectional view of the cutter-integrated tray stand unit 210 with the cutter plate 290 pushed up. Here, the tray stand unit 210 will be described, but the tray stand unit 220 also has the same shape. The bottom of the tray base unit 210 is connected to a vacuum pump 410 via a pipe 270 (see FIG. 14). A three-way solenoid valve (described later) is provided between the vacuum pump 410 and the pipe 270, and the cutter plate 290 is quickly pushed up (thrust-up) in response to the opening and closing of the valve. When the cutter plate 290 is pushed up, the blade is pushed up from the cutter groove 230 to a position (for example, about 10 mm) higher than the surface of the inner surface 291b2. This allows the skin film F adhering to the periphery of the tray T to be cut. The height position of the cutter plate 290 is regulated by spring coils 292a to 292d. When the operation of the vacuum pump 410 is stopped, the tray base unit 210 returns to its home position due to the action of the spring coils 292a to 292d.

[0052] 20A and 20B show an embodiment of an air bag 500 that raises and lowers the cutter plate 290 provided in the lower chamber 20, where FIG. 20A shows the shape of the air bag 500 when it is not inflated, and FIG. 20B shows the shape of the air bag 500 when it is inflated. The cutter plate 295 also has the same configuration. 20, an air bag 500 is provided below the tray stand unit 210. A cutter plate 290, to which a pattern cutter 240 is attached on its outer periphery via an intermediate plate 510, is placed on the air bag 500. In addition, fixed blocks 520 and 530 are provided as height restriction means to prevent the intermediate plate 510 from being pushed up above a predetermined height.

[0053] The tray base unit 210 is connected to a vacuum pump 410 via a three-way solenoid valve (see FIG. 22). In the process of manufacturing a skin pack, the lower chamber 20 housing the tray base unit 210 is depressurized to a predetermined value using the vacuum pump 410. During the depressurization process in the lower chamber 20, the air bag 500 is not yet inflated, as shown in FIG. 20(a). As the depressurization in the lower chamber 20 progresses, the air valve of the three-way solenoid valve opens at the timing when the pattern cutter 240 begins to cut the skin film F. Then, as shown in FIG. 20(b), air is sent into the tray base unit 210, and the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the air bag 500 causes the air bag 500 to instantly inflate, pushing up the cutter plate 290 and cutter pattern 240 together with the intermediate plate 510, so that they pop out. This allows the skin film F around the periphery of the tray T to be cut.

[0054] Even when the air bag 500 is used for lifting and lowering in this way, the provision of the fixing blocks 520, 530 prevents the pattern cutter 240 from being pushed up more than necessary (it is raised only by the amount necessary for cutting), thereby ensuring the safety of the worker. Furthermore, unless the pressure in the lower chamber 20 is reduced (i.e., when the lid is closed), the pattern cutter 240 will not jump out, so the safety of the worker can be ensured even when installing and removing the tray T.

[0055] FIG. 21 is a block diagram showing the control system of the packaging machine 1. The control device 400, which is responsible for the overall control of the packaging machine 1, includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 403, a memory used as a working area for the CPU 403, a storage device 406 that stores various programs for the packaging machine 1 and setting values ​​for various vacuum packaging conditions (decompression waiting time, vacuum degree, heater temperature, softening time, etc.), and an IF (Interface) circuit 409 that performs input / output processing of each signal.

[0056] The control device 400 is connected to the above-mentioned operation panel 11, heater plate 31, vacuum pump 410, upper chamber vacuum solenoid valve 415, upper chamber soft-open solenoid valve 420, upper chamber open solenoid valve 425, lower chamber vacuum solenoid valve 430, lower chamber open solenoid valve 435, cutter drive solenoid valve 440, temperature sensor 450, locking mechanism 460, pressure sensor 470, cut heater 480, and alarm unit 490 via IF circuit 409 so as to be able to input signals from each device and / or output control signals for controlling the operation of each device.

[0057] The temperature sensor 450 here detects the temperature of the heater plate 31. The locking mechanism 460 locks the upper chamber 30 when it is positioned at the lowest position and closes the opening 201 of the lower chamber 20, preventing it from being separated, i.e., from being raised. The locking mechanism 460 is configured to maintain the lock when not energized and to release the lock when energized. Any appropriate locking method may be used, and for example, a solenoid lock in a latch mechanism may be used. The pressure sensor 470 detects the vacuum pressure in the lower chamber 20 and the upper chamber 30.

[0058] The roll film cutter 209 uses a cutter blade to cut the skin film F unwound from the roll film F in response to a command from the control device 400. The notification unit 490 notifies the worker that the skin pack has been completed. The notification unit 490 is preferably configured as a buzzer, but may also be configured as a lamp that flashes.

[0059] The vacuum pump 410 is connected to intake passages that communicate with the lower chamber 20 and the upper chamber 30 (see FIG. 22). The upper chamber vacuum solenoid valve 415 is provided in the intake flow path between the upper chamber 30 and the vacuum pump 410, and allows / disables fluid connection between the upper chamber 30 and the vacuum pump 410. In other words, the upper chamber 30 is evacuated via this solenoid valve 415. The upper chamber opening soft electromagnetic valve 420 is provided between the upper chamber 30 and the upper chamber vacuum electromagnetic valve 415, and softly opens the upper chamber 30 to a set value when the soft opening contact is made. The upper chamber opening solenoid valve 425 is provided between the upper chamber 30 and the upper chamber opening soft solenoid valve 420, and opens the upper chamber 30 to the atmosphere up to 20% to allow the skin film F to adhere completely.

[0060] The lower chamber vacuum solenoid valve 430 is provided in the intake flow path between the lower chamber 20 and the vacuum pump 410, and allows / disables fluid connection between the lower chamber 20 and the vacuum pump 410. In other words, the inside of the lower chamber 20 is evacuated via this solenoid valve 430. The lower chamber release solenoid valve 435 is a solenoid valve provided between the lower chamber 20 and the lower chamber vacuum solenoid valve 430 via a vacuum release branch flow path provided in the intake flow path, and by opening the solenoid valve 435, the pressure inside the lower chamber 20 can be returned from a reduced pressure state to atmospheric pressure.

[0061] The cutter drive solenoid valve 440 is a three-way solenoid valve and is used to drive the cutter plates 290, 295. When the lower chamber 20 is evacuated, the connection between the lower chamber and the vacuum pump 410 is "open" and vacuuming is performed in the same manner. Then, when the pattern cutting process begins, the vacuum pump side valve of the cutter drive solenoid valve 440 is "closed" and the atmosphere side valve is "open" to quickly push up the cutter plates 290, 295.

[0062] (device operation) Next, a method for producing skin pack packaging using the vacuum skin pack packaging machine 1 will be described. 22 to 37 show the operating states of the vacuum skin pack packaging machine 1 in each process. In Fig. 22 to 37, the lifting and lowering of the cutter plates 290, 295 is controlled by the air bag 500 shown in Fig. 20.

[0063] When manufacturing a skin pack according to the embodiment, the skin pack process with reduced rated power consumption, which will be described below, is set to be executed by default as a processing operation. Here, it is assumed that various vacuum packaging conditions, heater temperature, etc. have been set to predetermined values ​​by an administrator. It is also assumed that a tray T with packaged items W placed on it has been prepared in advance.

[0064] FIG. 22 shows a state in which cutter-integrated tray base units 210, 220 that fit a tray T for a skin-pack product, for example, a food product, are stored in the lower chamber 20. At this point, the vacuum pump 410 is not operating, but the control device 400 performs default control to "close" the upper chamber vacuum solenoid valve 415, the upper chamber soft-release solenoid valve 420, and the lower chamber vacuum solenoid valve 430, "open" the upper chamber release solenoid valve 425 and the lower chamber release solenoid valve 435, and "close" the cutter drive solenoid valve 440. Note that the "closed" state of the three-way cutter drive solenoid valve 440 refers to the atmosphere side valve, and the connection between the vacuum pump 410 and the lower chamber 20 is "open."

[0065] When the operator turns on the power and wishes to change the rolled film F wound with the skin film F, he or she sets the rolled film F wound with the skin film F to be changed in the film mounting section. Then, the operator selects a course suitable for the skin film F to be used from the operation panel 11. When the course selection operation is complete, or if there is no need to change the skin film F, the operator presses the "operation mode" button on the operation panel 11. In response to this operation, the control device 400 commands the heater plate 31 to heat, and heating begins. At this time, the control device 400 heats the heater plate 31 until it reaches the set temperature while acquiring the measured temperature from the temperature sensor 450, and once the set temperature is reached, controls the heater plate 31 by repeatedly turning it on and off to maintain that temperature. When the heater plate 31 reaches the set temperature, the control device 400 operates the vacuum pump 410. The vacuum pump 410 then remains operating until the pattern cutting process is completed.

[0066] Figure 23 shows the operating state of the vacuum skin pack packaging machine 1 when the heater plate 31 is turned on, and a tray T carrying an item to be packaged (work) W is placed on the tray table units 210, 220 of the lower chamber 20. In FIG. 23, the vacuum pump 410 is not yet operating, and the upper chamber vacuum solenoid valve 415, the upper chamber soft-release solenoid valve 420, and the lower chamber vacuum solenoid valve 430 are all closed by default. When changing trays, the worker resets the tray stand units 210, 220 to match the tray T to be changed. Then, the worker selects the tray T to be used and sets the tray T carrying the packaged items (workpieces) W to be skin-packed within the frame of the tray auxiliary members 203 of the tray stand units 210, 220.

[0067] The operator then places the skin film F over the lower chamber 20 . FIG. 24 shows the state of the vacuum skin pack packaging machine 1 in which the skin film F is placed over the lower chamber 20 so as not to wrinkle. 13 as a skin film F, and pulls it downward, and then pulls it toward the front (forward), closing the opening 201 of the lower chamber 20 with the pulled skin film F. This positions the skin film F and the packaged item (workpiece) W facing each other.

[0068] Next, the worker lowers the upper chamber 30 and brings it into close contact with the opening 201 of the lower chamber 20 so as to cover it, specifically by bringing it into close contact via the skin film F. At this time, the close contact between the upper chamber 30 and the lower chamber 20 activates a limit switch (not shown), and in response, the locking mechanism 460 operates to prevent the upper chamber 30 from moving upward from the lower chamber 20, that is, to lock it so as to maintain the close contact state.

[0069] The control device 400 activates the limit switch to turn off the heater plate 31 and starts the vacuum pump 410 to draw a vacuum. Furthermore, it activates the roll film cutter 209 to cut the skin film F at the rear of the lower chamber 20. Because the heater plate 31 is turned off at this stage, power consumption can be reduced. Since the heater plate 31 is tightly closed by the upper chamber 30, the temperature of the heater plate 31 is maintained at approximately the same temperature while the skin pack is in operation.

[0070] FIG. 25 shows the operational state when the vacuum pump 410 draws a vacuum and the roll film cutter 209 cuts the skin film F. As shown in FIG. 25, when vacuum pump 410 starts to draw a vacuum, control device 400 controls upper chamber vacuum solenoid valve 415 to be "open," upper chamber soft-release solenoid valve 420 to be "closed," upper chamber release solenoid valve 425 to be "closed," lower chamber vacuum solenoid valve 430 to be "open," lower chamber release solenoid valve 435 to be "closed," and the atmosphere side valve of cutter drive solenoid valve 440 to be "closed."

[0071] After the upper chamber 30 has descended, the upper chamber soft-release solenoid valve 420 and the upper chamber release solenoid valve 425 are closed, and the upper chamber vacuum solenoid valve 415 is opened, thereby reducing the pressure inside the upper chamber 30 and performing vacuuming. Similarly, the lower chamber release solenoid valve 435 and the cutter drive solenoid valve 440 are closed, and the lower chamber vacuum solenoid valve 430 is opened, thereby reducing the pressure inside the lower chamber 20 and performing vacuuming. After the upper chamber 30 has descended, the control device 400 performs vacuuming until the pressure in the lower chamber 20 and the upper chamber 30 is reduced by, for example, 20%. In this state, the packing 33 on the inner periphery of the upper chamber 30 is completely submerged, and the rolled film cutter 209 is activated to cut the skin film F. At this time, the movement of the rolled film F is restricted by the adhesive tapes 208aa and 208bb attached to the upper surfaces of the cutter groove blocks 208a and 208b, as shown in Figure 8, and a wrinkle-free horizontal surface is provided, allowing for smooth cutting.

[0072] Next, the control device 400 stops the evacuation when the lower chamber 20 and the upper chamber 30 are each evacuated (reduced to 20%). Then, the skin film F is preheated. Figure 26 shows the operating state when the skin film F is preheated. 26, in the preheating process of the skin film F, the control device 400 controls the atmosphere side valve of the cutter drive solenoid valve 440 to be "closed" and all solenoid valves to be "closed." By introducing this preheating process of the skin film F, it is possible to prevent holes from being formed in the skin film F when it is heated.

[0073] Next, the control device 400 executes pre-stretching of the skin film F. Figure 27 shows the operating state when the skin film F is being pre-stretched. 27, in the pre-stretching process of the skin film F, the control device 400 controls the lower chamber vacuum solenoid valve 430 to be "open" and all other solenoid valves to be "closed." In other words, by evacuating only the lower chamber 20, the skin film F can be inflated downward into a dome shape. By introducing this pre-stretching process of the skin film F, the skin film F is slowly stretched downward, which makes it possible to suppress the occurrence of wrinkles and improve the adhesion and followability.

[0074] When the upper chamber 30 is opened to the atmosphere, if the upper chamber soft-opening solenoid valve 420 is used as a valve with a narrowed orifice diameter, the skin film F is slowly inflated toward the lower chamber 20, thereby suppressing sudden stretching of the skin film F and making it less likely to develop holes. Alternatively, the upper chamber vacuum solenoid valve 415 is closed to stop the decompression of the upper chamber 30 and allow the film to slowly expand downward. By slowly expanding the skin film F downward, the skin film F can be prevented from being suddenly stretched, making it less likely to develop holes.

[0075] Next, the control device 400 heats the skin film F and evacuates the upper chamber 30. Fig. 28 shows the operating state when the skin film F is heated and the upper chamber 30 is evacuated. As shown in Figure 28, in this process, the control device 400 controls the upper chamber vacuum solenoid valve 415 and the lower chamber vacuum solenoid valve 430 to be "open," the upper chamber soft-release solenoid valve 420, the upper chamber release solenoid valve 425, and the lower chamber release solenoid valve 435 to be "closed," and the atmosphere-side valve of the cutter drive solenoid valve 440 to be "closed." This causes the lower chamber 20 and the upper chamber 30 to be evacuated to the set value. As a result, the dome-shaped skin film F returns to its original position as shown in Figure 28. The skin film F is then heated again by the heat plate 31, which is maintained at a high temperature.

[0076] Next, the control device 400 stops the evacuation of the upper chamber 30 and performs additional evacuation of the lower chamber 20. Figure 29 shows the operating state of the vacuum skin pack packaging machine 1 when the evacuation of the upper chamber 30 is stopped and additional evacuation of the lower chamber 20 is being performed. As shown in Figure 29, in this process, the control device 400 controls the lower chamber vacuum solenoid valve 430 to be "open," the upper chamber vacuum solenoid valve 415, the upper chamber soft-release solenoid valve 420, the upper chamber release solenoid valve 425, and the lower chamber release solenoid valve 435 to be "closed," and the atmosphere side valve of the cutter drive solenoid valve 440 to be "closed." As a result, the evacuation of the upper chamber 30 stops and the lower chamber 20 is placed in an additional evacuation state, so that the skin film F is lowered toward the lower chamber 20. By introducing the additional evacuation process of the lower chamber, it is possible to prevent holes from being formed in the skin film F.

[0077] Next, the control device 400 softly opens the upper chamber 30 to slowly bring the skin film F into close contact with the tray T. Figure 30 shows the operating state when the upper chamber 30 is softly opened to slowly bring the skin film F into close contact with the tray T. As shown in Figure 30, in this process, the control device 400 controls the upper chamber soft-release solenoid valve 420 and the lower chamber vacuum solenoid valve 430 to be "open," the upper chamber vacuum solenoid valve 415, the upper chamber release solenoid valve 425, and the lower chamber release solenoid valve 435 to be "closed," and the atmospheric side valve of the cutter drive solenoid valve 440 to be "closed."

[0078] As a result, the upper chamber soft-release solenoid valve 420 is opened while the evacuation of the upper chamber 30 is stopped and only the lower chamber 20 is being evacuated, and the outside air (a small amount of atmospheric air) flowing in from the upper chamber soft-release solenoid valve 420 is blown out toward the skin film F from the numerous vent holes 32 in the heater plate 31 of the upper chamber 30. As a result, the skin film F can be slowly adhered to the tray T. By soft-opening the upper chamber 30 and introducing a process of slowly adhering the skin film F to the tray T, it is possible to prevent holes from being formed in the skin film F.

[0079] Next, when the control device 400 determines from the measurement value of the pressure sensor 470a that the upper chamber 30 has been softly opened to the atmosphere, for example, up to 20%, it completely seals the skin film F. Figure 31 shows the operating state of the vacuum skin pack packaging machine 1 when the skin film F is completely sealed. As shown in FIG. 31, in this process, the control device 400 controls the upper chamber opening solenoid valve 425 and the lower chamber vacuum solenoid valve 430 to be "open," the upper chamber vacuum solenoid valve 415, the upper chamber soft opening solenoid valve 420, and the lower chamber opening solenoid valve 435 to be "closed," and the atmosphere side valve of the cutter drive solenoid valve 440 to be "closed."

[0080] As a result, following step S134, the evacuation of the upper chamber 30 stops, and while only the lower chamber 20 is being evacuated, the upper chamber opening solenoid valve 425 is opened, so that outside air (atmosphere) flowing in from the upper chamber opening solenoid valve 425 is blown out toward the skin film F from the numerous air vents 32 in the heater plate 31 of the upper chamber 30. The amount of outside air flowing in from the upper chamber opening solenoid valve 425 is greater than the amount of outside air flowing in from the upper chamber soft-opening solenoid valve 420 in step S134. As a result, the skin film F can be brought into complete contact with the tray T.

[0081] Next, the control device 400 executes a wait before pattern cutting to wait until the adhesion of the skin film F stabilizes. In this process, the control device 400 performs the same valve control as in Figure 31. As a result, the opened upper chamber soft-release solenoid valve 420 is kept closed while waiting for the adhesion of the skin film F to stabilize. This wait allows the skin film F to cool slightly.

[0082] Next, the control device 400 performs pattern cutting on the outer peripheral film of the tray T to which the skin film F is adhered. Figure 32 shows the operating state of the vacuum skin pack packaging machine 1 when cutting the outer peripheral film of the tray T. As shown in Figure 32, in this process, the control device 400 controls the solenoid valve to be open between the atmosphere side of the three-way cutter drive solenoid valve 440 and the lower chamber 20, while maintaining the same opening and closing control state as in Figure 29 (the lower chamber 20 continues to be in a vacuum state).

[0083] As a result, outside air flowing in from three-way cutter drive solenoid valve 440 is directed into tray base units 210, 220 in lower chamber 20, and the pressure difference between the inside and outside of air bag 500 causes air bag 500 to inflate to a predetermined size. The inflation of air bag 500 instantly pushes up cutter plates 290, 295 and cutter pattern 240 built into tray base units 210, 220, causing them to pop out. As a result, cutter pattern 240 cuts the outer peripheral film of tray T to which skin film F is adhered.

[0084] FIG. 32 shows an example of a configuration in which the air bag 500 is instantly inflated and pushed up by opening the atmospheric side valve of the three-way cutter drive solenoid valve 440 when the cutter is in operation, but any means is acceptable as long as it is a mechanism that directly sprays air from below to quickly push up the cutter plates 290, 295. Alternatively, the pattern cutter may be one in which an electric heating wire is arranged in the shape to be cut on the tray of the cutter plates 290, 295, and after the skin pack, an electric current is passed through to generate heat and melt the skin film F.

[0085] Next, the control device 400 stores the raised cutter plates 290 and 295. FIG. 33 shows the operating state of the vacuum skin pack packaging machine 1 when the raised cutter plates 290, 295 are stored. As shown in Figure 33, in this process, the control device 400 controls the solenoid valves in the same open / close state as in Figure 26. The atmosphere side of the three-way cutter drive solenoid valve 440 is "closed," and the connection between the lower chamber 20 and the vacuum pump 410 is "open." This draws a vacuum inside the air bag, and the cutter plates 290, 295 can be stored to their original positions by the action of the spring coils 292a to 292d shown in Figure 18.

[0086] Next, after confirming that the cutter plates 290, 295 are stored, the control device 400 opens the upper chamber 30 and the lower chamber 20 to the atmosphere. Figure 34 shows the operating state of the vacuum skin pack packaging machine 1 when the upper chamber 30 and the lower chamber 20 are opened to the atmosphere. 34, in this step, the control device 400 stops the vacuum pump 410, closes the upper chamber soft-release solenoid valve 420, and opens all other solenoid valves. However, the atmosphere side of the three-way cutter drive solenoid valve 440 is controlled to be closed.

[0087] This opens the upper chamber vacuum solenoid valve 415, upper chamber open solenoid valve 425, lower chamber vacuum solenoid valve 430, lower chamber open solenoid valve 435, and cutter drive solenoid valve 440, thereby releasing the residual pressure up to the vacuum pump 410. As a result, the same skin pack can be repeatedly performed under the same settings. Then, at this stage, the control device 400 turns on the heater plate 31 in preparation for the next skin pack packaging.

[0088] Next, the control device 400 opens the lid of the upper chamber 30. Figure 35 shows the operating state of the vacuum skin pack packaging machine 1 when the lid of the upper chamber 30 is opened. 35, in this step, the control device 400 keeps the vacuum pump 410 stopped, and controls the upper chamber vacuum solenoid valve 415, upper chamber soft-release solenoid valve 420, and lower chamber vacuum solenoid valve 430 to be "closed," and the upper chamber release solenoid valve 425, lower chamber release solenoid valve 435, and cutter drive solenoid valve 440 to be "open." However, the atmosphere side of the three-way cutter drive solenoid valve 440 is controlled to be "closed."

[0089] This allows for a clean vacuum skin pack to be obtained. Then, a tray T carrying the packaged item (work) W can be set on the tray table units 210 and 220 as shown in FIG. 23. As a result, preparations for the next skin pack can be made. It is advisable to use a gas spring or the like to open the upper chamber 30, which serves as the lid.

[0090] As shown in Figure 36, the worker removes the skin-packed tray T from the lower chamber 20. Finally, as shown in Figure 37, the worker removes the skin film F that remains inside and outside the lower chamber 20. The open / closed states of the solenoid valves in Figures 36 and 37 are the same as those in Figure 35. When the operator subsequently places the tray T to be spin-packed next on the tray table units 210, 220, the above-mentioned steps can be immediately carried out.

[0091] In the vacuum skin pack packaging machine of this embodiment, the heavy roll film F can be carried simply by setting it at the rear of the upper chamber 30, and then the upper chamber 30 can be moved to the highest position to set it in the film mounting groove 44. This significantly reduces the burden on the worker when loading the roll film F.

[0092] Furthermore, in a configuration in which the tray stand unit 210 is raised and lowered using the air bag 500, the provision of the fixing blocks 520, 530 prevents the pattern cutter 240 from being pushed up more than necessary (it rises only the amount necessary for cutting), thereby ensuring the safety of the worker. Furthermore, unless the lower chamber 20 is depressurized (i.e., when the lid is closed), the pattern cutter 240 will not jump out, so the safety of the worker can be ensured even when installing and removing the tray T.

[0093] As described above, the vacuum skin pack packaging machine of this embodiment comprises a movable first chamber 30 incorporating a heater plate 31 inside, a second chamber 20 arranged opposite the first chamber 30, a vacuum pump 410 that draws a vacuum inside the first chamber 30 and the second chamber 20, at least one tray base unit 210 mounted within the second chamber 20, and a tray support member 203 whose inside is shaped similarly to a tray and is arranged around the inner periphery of the tray base unit 210. A tray T carrying the packaged items is placed along the tray support member 203 of the tray base unit 210 and covered with a skin film. The first chamber 30 is moved, and with the first chamber 20 and the second chamber 30 closed, the inside of the chamber formed by the first chamber 30 and the second chamber 20 is depressurized by the vacuum pump 410, and the skin film F softened by the heat of the heater plate 31 is brought into close contact with the tray T, thereby creating a skin pack. This allows the tray T to be easily positioned by simply placing the tray T in the tray assisting member whose inside has a shape similar to that of the tray.

[0094] Furthermore, in the vacuum skin pack packaging machine of this embodiment, a plurality of finger holes 208a covered by lid portion 205 are provided in the center of tray base unit 210, and lid portion 205 is configured to be able to expose a plurality of finger holes 208a by seesaw motion and sliding movement. This allows the tray base unit to be easily removed by exposing the plurality of finger holes that are normally hidden and inserting fingers into the finger holes.

[0095] Furthermore, when the vacuum skin pack packaging machine of this embodiment produces skin pack packaging, the plurality of finger holes 205a to 205d are covered by the lid 205 so that they cannot be seen, and when removing the tray base unit 210 from the second chamber 210, fingers are inserted into the exposed plurality of finger holes 205a to 205d to remove it. This allows the tray base unit to be easily removed by exposing the plurality of finger holes that are normally hidden and inserting fingers into the finger holes.

[0096] In addition, in the vacuum skin pack packaging machine of this embodiment, a heat insulating member 302 is provided between the handle 301, which is used to move the first chamber 30, and the heater plate 31. This prevents heat conduction from the heater plate 31, allowing the handle to be operated safely.

[0097] The vacuum skin pack packaging machine of this embodiment is further configured to include two parallel cutter groove blocks 208a, 208b that are provided behind the second chamber 20 and form a film cutter groove 208 for cutting the rolled film, and a rolled film cutter 209 that is provided behind the first chamber 30 in a position facing the film cutter groove 208 and cuts the rolled film F. This makes it possible to easily cut the rolled film.

[0098] In addition, in the vacuum skin pack packaging machine of this embodiment, adhesive members 208aa and 208bb are attached to the upper surfaces of the two parallel cutter groove blocks 208a and 208b, which provides a wrinkle-free horizontal surface for the rolled film when cutting it, making it easier to cut.

[0099] The embodiments of the present invention are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments may be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the inventions and their equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0100] 1...vacuum skin pack packaging machine, 10...casing, 11...operation panel 20...lower chamber (second chamber), 201...opening 30...upper chamber (first chamber), 30a...fixing member 30b, 30c...Movement support member, 30aa, 30bb...Placement rail 31...heater plate, 32...vent hole, 33...packing, 34...connecting pipe 301...Handle, 40...Leg, 42...Connecting plate, 44...Film mounting groove 46...Inclined portion, 50...One-touch lock portion, 51...Lock button 203...tray support member, 205...lid portion, 205a to 205d...plurality of finger holes 205e...Middle plate, 208...Film cutter groove 208a, 208b...Cutter groove block 208aa, 208bb...Adhesive materials (adhesive tape, etc.) 209...Roll film cutter, 210, 220...Tray stand unit 230... cutter groove, 240... pattern cutter (cutter means) 250a to 250d... adhesive members, 260a to 260c... adhesive members 270, 275...piping, 280...reinforcing plate, 290a~290d...intake section 291a...Bottom plate, 291b...Top plate, 291b1...Outer peripheral surface part 291b2... inner surface, 291c... support column, 292a~292d... spring coil 290, 295...Cutter plate, 300...Tray stand unit, 300a...Horizontal surface 302...heat insulating member, 320...spring coil, 330...fixed portion, 400...control device 403...CPU, 406...storage device, 409...IF circuit, 410...vacuum pump 415...Upper chamber vacuum solenoid valve, 420...Upper chamber soft release solenoid valve 425...Upper chamber opening solenoid valve, 430...Lower chamber vacuum solenoid valve 435...Lower chamber opening solenoid valve, 440...Cutter drive solenoid valve 450...Temperature sensor, 460...Lock mechanism 460, 470...Pressure sensor 480...Cut heater 480, 490...Notification unit, 500...Air bag 510...Intermediate plate, 520, 530...Fixed block (height limiting means) W...packaged item (work), T...tray, F...roll film and skin film

Claims

1. a first chamber on the movable side having a heater plate built therein; a second chamber provided opposite the first chamber; a vacuum pump that draws a vacuum into the first chamber and the second chamber; at least one tray base unit mounted within the second chamber; a tray support member whose inner surface has a shape similar to that of a tray and is arranged around the inner periphery of the tray base unit; and A tray carrying an item to be packaged is placed along the tray auxiliary member of the tray stand unit, and the tray is covered with a skin film. the first chamber is moved, and in a state in which the first chamber and the second chamber are closed, the inside of a chamber formed by the first chamber and the second chamber is depressurized by the vacuum pump; The skin film softened by the heat of the heater plate is brought into close contact with the tray to form a skin pack. This vacuum skin pack packaging machine is characterized by:

2. A plurality of finger holes covered with a lid are provided in the center of the tray base unit, 2. The vacuum skin pack packaging machine according to claim 1, wherein the lid portion is capable of exposing the plurality of finger holes by seesaw movement and sliding movement.

3. When the skin pack is produced, the plurality of finger holes are covered by the lid portion so that they cannot be seen, 3. The vacuum skin pack packaging machine according to claim 2, wherein when the tray base unit is removed from the second chamber, fingers are inserted into the exposed finger holes to remove the tray base unit.

4. 2. The vacuum skin pack packaging machine according to claim 1, wherein a heat insulating member is provided between the handle for operating the first chamber and the heater plate.

5. two parallel cutter groove blocks provided at the rear of the second chamber and forming a film cutter groove for cutting the rolled film; a rolled film cutter provided at a position facing the film cutter groove behind the first chamber, the rolled film cutter configured to cut the rolled film; 2. The vacuum skin pack packaging machine according to claim 1, further comprising:

6. 6. The vacuum skin pack packaging machine according to claim 5, wherein an adhesive member is attached to the upper surfaces of the two parallel cutter groove blocks.

Images