Vacuum packaging machine and vacuum packaging method

Abstract

This technology offers advantages for vacuum sealing bags. [Solution] The bag support device 30 includes a first support member 31 and a second support member 32 that is movably provided relative to the first support member 31. The slider portion 35 includes a first tip element 36 formed from a part of the first support member 31 and a second tip element 37 formed from a part of the second support member 32. With the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 supporting the bag, the first tip element 36 and the second tip element 37 are fixed relative to each other so as to move integrally in the sliding direction. The slide drive mechanism 33 increases the opening area of ​​the bag opening by moving the slider portion 35 from the basic position to the relaxed position in the sliding direction while the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 are supporting the bag.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a vacuum packaging machine and a vacuum packaging method.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a vacuum packaging machine aimed at preventing wrinkles from occurring at the opening of a packaging bag and sealing it neatly by pulling both ends of the opening of the packaging bag in the expanding direction by a simple pulling mechanism.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] When evacuating the air inside the bag in a vacuum packaging machine, if the opening of the bag is narrow, the gas flow path that communicates the inside and outside of the bag becomes small. As a result, it is difficult to stably perform the desired evacuation for a large number of bags, and bags with vacuum defects are likely to be produced. When the opening of the bag is narrow, in order to more reliably bring the inside of the bag to the desired vacuum state, it is effective to create an environment with a high degree of vacuum. However, to create such a high-level vacuum environment, it is necessary to use an expensive and large pump with excellent vacuum capacity (pump volume).

[0005] The present disclosure provides a technique advantageous for vacuum processing of bags.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a vacuum packaging machine comprising a bag support device having a slider portion and a slide drive mechanism for moving the slider portion, wherein the bag support device has a first support member and a second support member movably provided with respect to the first support member, the slider portion includes a first tip element formed from a part of the first support member and a second tip element formed from a part of the second support member, the first tip element and the second tip element are fixed to each other so as to move integrally in the sliding direction when the first support member and the second support member are supporting a bag, and the slide drive mechanism expands the opening area of ​​the mouth of the bag by moving the slider portion from a basic position to a relaxed position in the sliding direction when the first support member and the second support member are supporting a bag.

[0007] The first support member includes a first base element formed from a part of the first support member, and the second support member includes a second base element formed from a part of the second support member. With the first and second support members supporting the bag, the first base element and the second base element face each other, and the first tip element and the second tip element face each other. A slide drive mechanism moves the slider portion from the basic position to the relaxed position, bringing the first tip element closer to the first base element and the second tip element closer to the second base element. A slide elastic body may be provided that applies an elastic force to at least one of the first tip element and the second tip element to return them to the basic position.

[0008] The sliding elastic body includes a first sliding elastic body and a second sliding elastic body, and the first sliding elastic body and the second sliding elastic body may apply an elastic force to at least one of the first tip element and the second tip element in a direction along the sliding direction and in a direction opposite to each other.

[0009] The slider section includes a first slide unit that supports one end of the bag and a second slide unit that supports the other end of the bag. The slide drive mechanism may enlarge the opening area of ​​the bag opening by moving at least one of the first slide unit and the second slide unit from the basic position to the relaxed position while the bag support device is supporting the bag.

[0010] The first slide unit may move in the sliding direction between a basic position and a tensile position located further away from the second slide unit than the basic position, and the second slide unit may move in the sliding direction between a basic position and a relaxed position located closer to the first slide unit than the basic position.

[0011] The distance in the sliding direction between the base position and the tensioned position of the first slide unit may be the same as the distance in the sliding direction between the base position and the relaxed position of the second slide unit.

[0012] The distance in the sliding direction between the base position and the tension position of the first slide unit may be different from the distance in the sliding direction between the base position and the slack position of the second slide unit.

[0013] The vacuum packaging machine includes a locking mechanism that exerts a magnetic force to position the second end element in its basic position, and a slide drive mechanism connected to the first end element. The first and second support members support the bag when positioned in the support position and release the support of the bag when positioned in a separated position, which is further away from each other than the support position. When the first and second support members move from the separated position to the support position, at least immediately before the first and second support members are positioned in the support position, the first end element is positioned in its basic position by the slide drive mechanism, and the second end element is positioned in its basic position by the locking mechanism. The slide drive mechanism may apply a driving force to the first and second end elements that resists the magnetic force when moving the slider from the basic position to the relaxed position while the first and second support members are supporting the bag.

[0014] The vacuum packaging machine includes a locking part that is provided on at least one of the first tip element and the second tip element and exerts magnetic force, and a slide drive mechanism is connected to the first tip element, and the first support member and the second support member support the bag when positioned in a support position, and release the support of the bag when positioned in a separated position that is further away from each other than the support position, and when the first support member and the second support member move from the separated position to the support position, the first tip element may be positioned in its basic position by the slide drive mechanism and the second tip element may be positioned in its basic position by the locking part at least immediately before the first support member and the second support member are positioned in the support position.

[0015] The slide drive mechanism may tension the opening of the bag compared to when the slider is in the basic position by moving the slider from the basic position to the tensioned position in the sliding direction while the first support member and the second support member are supporting the bag.

[0016] A protrusion is provided on one of the first and second end elements, and a recess is provided on the other. When the first and second support members are positioned in a support position and supporting a bag, the protrusion engages with the recess, fixing the first and second end elements to each other in the sliding direction. When the first and second support members are positioned at a distance greater than the support position, the protrusion is separated from the recess, and does not need to fix the first and second end elements to each other in the sliding direction.

[0017] The vacuum packaging machine comprises a vacuum chamber having an inner space where a bag supported by a bag support device is placed and which provides a vacuum environment, and a sealing device for sealing the opening, and the slide drive mechanism may move the slider portion from the basic position to the relaxed position at least once in the sliding direction while the bag support device is supporting the bag in a vacuum environment, prior to the sealing of the opening by the sealing device.

[0018] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a vacuum packaging method including a step of sealing an opening of a bag by a sealing device, and a step of expanding an opening area of the opening at least once by a bag support device in a state where the bag support device supports the bag under a vacuum environment prior to sealing of the opening by the sealing device.

[0019] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to the above-described vacuum packaging method performed by the above-described vacuum packaging machine.

Advantages of the Invention

[0020] According to the present disclosure, vacuum treatment of a bag can be advantageously performed.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a rotary vacuum packaging machine and a rotary bag-packing machine. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a top view showing an enlarged part (particularly a vacuum chamber) of an example of the vacuum packaging machine according to the first embodiment, and the inside state of the vacuum chamber is shown in a perspective view. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an enlarged part of the vacuum chamber shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a front view of the vacuum chamber and a slide drive mechanism shown in FIG. 2 (however, illustration of the lid is omitted). [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a side view of the vacuum chamber, a bag support device, and a slide drive mechanism shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a top view showing an enlarged part (particularly a vacuum chamber) of an example of the vacuum packaging machine according to the second embodiment, and the inside state of the vacuum chamber is shown in a perspective view. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a front view of the vacuum chamber and a slide drive mechanism shown in FIG. 6 (however, illustration of the lid is omitted). [Figure 8]Figure 8 is an enlarged overhead view showing a part of an example of a vacuum packaging machine according to the third embodiment (particularly the vacuum chamber), and the inside of the vacuum chamber is shown in perspective. [Figure 9A] Figure 9A shows an example of the state of the bag support device (particularly the first and second slide elements) when the first and second support members are positioned at a distance from each other. [Figure 9B] Figure 9B shows an example of the state of a bag support device (particularly the first and second slide elements) when the first and second support members are positioned in the support position and the first and second slide elements are positioned in the basic position (neutral position). [Figure 9C] Figure 9C shows an example of the state of a bag support device (particularly the first and second slide elements) when the first and second support members are positioned in the support position and the first and second slide elements are positioned in the tension position. [Figure 9D] Figure 9D shows an example of the state of a bag support device (particularly the first and second slide elements) when the first and second support members are positioned in the support position and the first and second slide elements are positioned in the relaxed position. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a front view showing another example of a vacuum chamber and bag support device (the lid is not shown). [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0022] Figure 1 shows an example of a rotary-type vacuum packaging machine 1 and a rotary-type bagging and packaging machine 2.

[0023] In the bagging and packaging machine 2 shown in Figure 1, multiple pairs of grippers 4 are provided at equal intervals (equal angular intervals) around a table 3 that rotates intermittently. Bags, whose edges on both sides are gripped by each pair of grippers 4, undergo various packaging processes at stopping positions (1) to (8) as described below during one rotation of the table 3.

[0024] Stop position (1): The bag supply device 5 supplies one bag (not shown) at a time to each pair of grippers 4, and both side edges of the bag are gripped by the pair of grippers 4. Stop position (2): The printing device 6 prints information such as the manufacturing date on the surface of the bags held by the pair of grippers 4. Stop position (3): The bag opening is opened as both sides of the bag are attracted by the vacuum suction cups (not shown) of the bag opening opening device 7. Furthermore, a follow-type opening guide device 8 is installed at this stop position (3), which reciprocates between this position and the next stop position (4). The follow-type opening guide device 8 has a pair of guide claws (not shown) at its tip, and these guide claws are inserted into the bag opening that has been opened by the vacuum suction cups, widening the bag opening. The follow-type opening guide device 8 rotates one step to the next stop position (4) in accordance with the intermittent rotation of the table 3.

[0025] Stop position (4): The hopper 9 is inserted into the bag opening, which has been widened by the pair of guide claws of the follow-type opening guide device 8, and solid material is put into the bag. Meanwhile, the pair of guide claws are pulled out from the bag opening, and the follow-type opening guide device 8 rotates in the reverse direction to return to stop position (3). Stop position (5): The filling nozzle 10 is inserted into the bag opening, and the liquid is injected into the bag. Stop position (6): The sealing surface of the bag is cleaned by a cleaning device (not shown). Stop position (7): A transfer device (not shown) transfers pre-filled bags (bags filled with solid and liquid materials to be packaged) from the bagging machine 2 to the vacuum packaging machine 1. Stop position (8): Unoccupied process.

[0026] The vacuum packaging machine 1 has multiple vacuum chambers 12 installed at equal intervals around an intermittently rotating table 11. Each vacuum chamber 12 has a chamber body 13 and a lid 14 that opens and closes at predetermined timings. The chamber body 13 is fixed to a mounting part 15 installed on the table 11, and the lid 14 is attached to the chamber body 13 so as to be openable and closable. A bag support device (not shown in Figure 1), which will be described later, is installed on each chamber body 13. In the vacuum packaging machine 1, various vacuum packaging processes are performed at stopping positions (1) to (10) as shown below during one rotation of the table 11. In Figure 1, while the table 11 is rotating intermittently, the operation of the bag support device and various vacuum packaging processes are controlled by the control panel 16.

[0027] Stop position (1): A pre-filled bag is introduced into the vacuum chamber 12 with the lid 14 open by a transfer device (not shown). The pre-filled bag is then held by a bag support device and suspended in an upright position with the opening of the bag facing upwards. Stop position (2): The filled bags are pressed and flattened inside the vacuum chamber 12. Stopping positions (3) to (5): The lid 14 is closed, and the inside of the vacuum chamber 12 is sequentially evacuated to a high vacuum, from pre-vacuum to primary vacuum to secondary vacuum, and the vacuum processing of the filled bags continues.

[0028] Stop position (6): The opening of the bag is sealed by a sealing device installed inside the vacuum chamber 12. Stopping positions (7) to (8): The sealed portion of the bag cools naturally within the vacuum chamber 12. At stopping position (8), the inside of the vacuum chamber 12 is returned to atmospheric pressure. Stop position (9): The lid 14 is opened, the vacuum-treated and sealed product bag is released from the bag support device and discharged from the vacuum chamber 12, and is transported out by the product transport conveyor 20. Stop position (10): Unoccupied process.

[0029] Next, a typical embodiment of the vacuum packaging machine 1, which is advantageous for vacuuming bags, will be described illustratively.

[0030] [First Embodiment] Figure 2 is an enlarged top view showing a part of an example of a vacuum packaging machine 1 according to the first embodiment (particularly the vacuum chamber 12), with the inside of the vacuum chamber 12 shown in perspective. Figure 3 is an enlarged view showing a part of the vacuum chamber 12 shown in Figure 2. Figure 4 is a front view of the vacuum chamber 12 and slide drive mechanism 33 shown in Figure 2. Figure 5 is a side view of the vacuum chamber 12, bag support device 30, and slide drive mechanism 33 shown in Figure 2. Note that the lid 14 is not shown in Figures 4 and 5.

[0031] The vacuum packaging machine 1 of this embodiment comprises a plurality of vacuum chambers 12, and a sealing device 90, a bag support device 30, and a slide drive mechanism 33 provided for each vacuum chamber 12.

[0032] Each vacuum chamber 12 has an inner space partitioned by a chamber body 13 and a lid 14, and provides a vacuum environment in this inner space. Bags B, suspended and supported by a bag support device 30, are placed in the inner space of each vacuum chamber 12.

[0033] The sealing device 90 seals the opening Bm of the bag B. The sealing device 90 in this example has a pair of heater bases, and the opening Bm is heat-sealed by heating the opening Bm while the pair of heater bases are sandwiching it. One heater base is attached to the chamber body 13, and the other heater base is attached to the lid 14 and moves together with the lid 14. When the lid 14 is closed against the chamber body 13, the pair of heater bases pressurize the opening Bm of the bag B inside the vacuum chamber 12. Then, as the pair of heater bases are heated or generate heat while sandwiching the opening Bm, the opening Bm is heat-sealed. Heat sealing here is interpreted in a broad sense, and all sealing involving adhesion (fusion) using heat is called heat sealing, and the specific method of heat sealing is not limited. For example, the heater bases may maintain a high heat sealing temperature even when they are not in contact with (pressurizing) the opening Bm. Alternatively, the heater base may employ a so-called impulse seal method, and be instantaneously (intermittently) heated to the desired heat seal temperature by a heater wire such as a nichrome wire, depending on the timing of contact (pressure) with the opening Bm.

[0034] The bag support device 30 includes a first support member 31 and a second support member 32 that is movably mounted relative to the first support member 31. The first support member 31 is attached to the chamber body 13. The second support member 32 is attached to the opening / closing arm 67 and the pivot shaft 68 via a pivot support part 69, and the second support member 32 moves in accordance with the swing of the opening / closing arm 67 around the pivot shaft 68. The first support member 31 and the second support member 32 are configured as a chuck device, and when positioned in the support position, they grip and support the portion of the bag B slightly below the opening Bm, and when positioned at a distance greater from each other than the support position, they release the support of the bag.

[0035] As shown in Figure 2, the first support member 31 has a first tip element 36 and a first base element 38, which are spaced apart from each other. The second support member 32 has a second tip element 37 and a second base element 39, which are spaced apart from each other. When the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 are positioned to support bag B, the first base element 38 and the second base element 39 face each other, and the first tip element 36 and the second tip element 37 face each other.

[0036] In other words, the pair of the first end element 36, which is made up of a part of the first support member 31, and the second end element 37, which is made up of a part of the second support member 32, forms part of the bag support section that supports the bag B and constitutes a slider section 35 that can move integrally. Specifically, with the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 supporting the bag B, the first end element 36 and the second end element 37 are fixed to each other so that they can move integrally in the sliding direction Ds.

[0037] On the other hand, the pair of the first base element 38, which is made up of a part of the first support member 31, and the second base element 39, which is made up of a part of the second support member 32, also forms part of the bag support portion that supports the bag B by sandwiching it. However, the first base element 38 and the second base element 39 in this embodiment are not configured to be movable in the sliding direction Ds.

[0038] In the example shown in Figures 2 to 5, the first support member 31 has a base structure 45 fixed horizontally to the back wall of the chamber body 13, and a first end element 36 that is slidably installed in the sliding direction Ds in a slide elongated hole 60 of the base structure 45. A part of the base structure 45 constitutes the first base end element 38 of the first support member 31 on one side of the first support member 31 (right side in Figure 2), and the first base end element 38 forms a grooved chuck surface (bag support part).

[0039] On the other hand, the first tip element 36 has a through portion that is connected to the connecting pin 56 and extends through the slide slot 60, and a bag support portion that is integrally provided with the through portion and is located on the side of the slide slot 60 closer to the second tip element 37. The bag support portion of the first tip element 36 forms a groove-shaped chuck surface on the other side of the first support member 31 (left side in Figure 2), and has a protrusion (engaging portion) 61 (see Figure 3) at its end (particularly the end opposite to the first base element 38).

[0040] The second support member 32 is supported by the opening / closing arm 67 via a pivot support 69 and swings (rotates) around a pivot axis 68 that supports the opening / closing arm 67. The pivot axis 68 extends inside and outside the chamber body 13 and is connected to a drive source (not shown) provided outside the chamber body 13. By rotating on the axis in accordance with the power output from the drive source, it causes the opening / closing arm 67 and the second support member 32 to swing.

[0041] On one side of the second support member 32 (right side in Figure 2), the second base element 39 forms a convex chuck surface (bag support portion), while on the other side of the second support member 32 (left side in Figure 2), the second tip element 37 forms a convex chuck surface (bag support portion). In this example, the second base element 39 is attached to the swivel support portion 69 on one side, and the second tip element 37 is attached to the other side.

[0042] The second tip element 37 has a cylindrical tip slide movable part 37a having a hollow portion, and a tip slide support part 37b that is inserted into the hollow portion of the tip slide movable part 37a and supports the tip slide movable part 37a so as to be slidable (movable) in the sliding direction Ds.

[0043] The tip slide support portion 37b, together with the anti-rotation pin 65, extends from the pivot support portion 69 in the sliding direction Ds (especially to the other side (left side in Figure 2)). The tip slide movable portion 37a is fitted with a base portion 66, and the tip slide movable portion 37a and the base portion 66 move integrally in the sliding direction Ds. The base portion 66 is supported so as to be movable in the sliding direction Ds by the anti-rotation pin 65, which extends parallel to the tip slide support portion 37b (i.e., adjacent to the tip slide support portion 37b).

[0044] Slide elastic bodies 41 and 42 are provided to apply an elastic force to at least one of the first tip element 36 and the second tip element 37, which attempts to return it to its basic position (i.e., neutral position). The slide elastic bodies in the example shown in Figures 2 to 5 include a first slide elastic body 41 and a second slide elastic body 42. The first slide elastic body 41 and the second slide elastic body 42 apply an elastic force to at least one of the first tip element 36 and the second tip element 37 (in this example, the second tip element 37) along the sliding direction Ds and in directions opposite to each other.

[0045] In other words, one end of the anti-rotation pin 65 is attached to the swivel support portion 69, and the other end is provided with a pin head 65a having a locally large cross-sectional diameter. The portion of the anti-rotation pin 65 between the swivel support portion 69 and the pin head 65a has a substantially constant cross-sectional diameter and passes through the base portion 66 so that the base portion 66 can slide freely along the anti-rotation pin 65.

[0046] A first slide elastic body 41, supported by an anti-rotation pin 65, is provided between the pin head 65a and the base 66. A second slide elastic body 42, supported by an anti-rotation pin 65, is provided between the base 66 and the pivot support portion 69. In this example, the first slide elastic body 41 and the second slide elastic body 42 are composed of compression springs through which the anti-rotation pin 65 passes, and they apply elastic force to the base 66 in directions opposite to each other. Therefore, in a natural state where no external force is applied, the base 66 is positioned at a basic position where the elastic forces from both the first slide elastic body 41 and the second slide elastic body 42 are balanced, and consequently, the tip slide movable portion 37a, which moves integrally with the base 66, is positioned at the basic position.

[0047] A protrusion (engaging portion) 61 is provided at the end of the first tip element 36 (particularly the end opposite to the first base element 38), and a recess (engaging portion) 62 is provided at the end of the second tip element 37 (particularly the end of the tip slide movable portion 37a opposite to the second base element 39). The protrusion 61 of the first tip element 36 and the recess 62 of the second tip element 37 are mutually engageable. That is, when the second support member 32 is positioned in the support position (bag clamping position), the protrusion 61 formed on the first support member 31 (particularly the first tip element 36) engages with the recess 62 formed on the second support member 32 (particularly the second tip element 37).

[0048] Thus, when the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 are positioned in the support position and supporting the bag B, the convex portion 61 engages with the concave portion 62, fixing the first tip element 36 and the second tip element 37 to each other in the sliding direction Ds. On the other hand, when the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 are positioned at a distance greater than the support position, the convex portion 61 is separated from the concave portion 62 and does not fix the first tip element 36 and the second tip element 37 to each other in the sliding direction Ds.

[0049] When the second support member 32 moves from the separated position (bag release position) to the support position, the tip slide movable part 37a is indirectly biased by the slide elastic bodies 41 and 42 via the base 66 and positioned in the basic position, while the first tip element 36 is also positioned in the basic position by the slide drive mechanism 33. In this way, the second support member 32 moves to the support position with the convex part 61 (first tip element 36) and concave part 62 (second tip element 37) positioned to correspond to each other in the basic position, so that the engagement of the concave part 62 and the convex part 61 is smooth and reliable.

[0050] The second support member 32 moves between a separated position and a support position as the opening / closing arm 67 swings. When the second support member 32 is positioned in the support position, the first base element 38 and the second base element 39 close, and simultaneously the first tip element 36 and the second tip element 37 close, clamping both sides of the portion of the bag B located below the opening Bm. On the other hand, the central part of the bag B in the width direction is not clamped by the first support member 31 and the second support member 32, and forms a flow path for the air inside the bag B to flow out of the bag B in the vacuum environment of the vacuum chamber 12.

[0051] As described above, with the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 supporting the bag B, the slide drive mechanism 33 moves the slider portion 35 to the relaxed position along the sliding direction Ds, thereby increasing the opening area of ​​the mouth Bm of the bag B. This allows the mouth Bm to bend (relax) compared to when the slider portion 35 is in its basic position. Also, with the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 supporting the bag B as described above, the slide drive mechanism 33 moves the slider portion 35 to the tensed position along the sliding direction Ds, thereby decreasing the opening area of ​​the mouth Bm of the bag B. This allows the mouth Bm to be tensed compared to when the slider portion 35 is in its basic position.

[0052] In other words, the slide drive mechanism 33 moves the slider portion 35 to the relaxed position, compressing the second slide elastic body 42 along the anti-rotation pin 65 in the sliding direction Ds, bringing the first tip element 36 closer to the first base element 38, and the second tip element 37 closer to the second base element 39. As a result, the portion of bag B gripped by the first tip element 36 and the second tip element 37 is brought closer to the portion of bag B gripped by the first base element 38 and the second base element 39, causing the widthwise central portion of bag B that is not held between the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 to flex, and the opening area of ​​the mouth portion Bm (especially the air passage connecting the inside and outside of bag B) to expand.

[0053] Meanwhile, the slide drive mechanism 33 moves the slider portion 35 to the tensioned position, compressing the first slide elastic body 41 in the sliding direction Ds along the anti-rotation pin 65, moving the first tip element 36 away from the first base element 38, and the second tip element 37 away from the second base element 39. As a result, the portion of bag B gripped by the first tip element 36 and the second tip element 37 is moved away from the portion of bag B gripped by the first base element 38 and the second base element 39, and the widthwise central portion of bag B that is not held between the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 is tensed, reducing the opening area of ​​the mouth portion Bm (especially the air passage connecting the inside and outside of bag B).

[0054] As described later, the slide drive mechanism 33 can move the slider portion 35 from the basic position to the relaxed position at least once in the sliding direction Ds while the bag support device 30 is supporting the bag B in the vacuum environment inside the vacuum chamber 12, prior to the sealing of the opening Bm by the sealing device 90.

[0055] The slide drive mechanism 33 in the example shown in Figures 2 to 5 includes a slide drive source 51 attached to the table 11 (see Figure 1) via a mounting plate 50, and a link mechanism that transmits the power output from the slide drive source 51 to the first support member 31 (particularly the first end element 36).

[0056] In other words, as shown in Figure 4, one end of the first drive lever 52 is rotatably connected to the drive shaft 51a of the slide drive source 51 (an air cylinder in this example). The other end of the first drive lever 52 is connected to one end of the second drive lever 54 via a shaft 53.

[0057] The shaft 53 extends through the chamber body 13 and is attached to the chamber body 13 via a bearing 59 (see Figure 3), and is supported by the bearing 59 so as to be rotatable on the shaft. A sealing member 58 (e.g., an O-ring) is provided between the chamber body 13 and the bearing 59, and the airtightness between the chamber body 13 and the bearing 59 is ensured by this sealing member 58. A sealing member 58 is also provided between the shaft 53 and the bearing 59, and the airtightness between the shaft 53 and the bearing 59 is ensured by this sealing member 58. The shaft 53 is fixed to the first drive lever 52 on the outside of the chamber body 13 and to the second drive lever 54 on the inside of the chamber body 13, and as the first drive lever 52 swings around the shaft 53, the second drive lever 54 also swings around the shaft 53.

[0058] One end of a connecting link 57 is rotatably connected to the other end of the second drive lever 54 via a connecting pin 55. The other end of the connecting link 57 is rotatably connected to the first end element 36 (especially the through portion) via a connecting pin 56. When the second drive lever 54 swings around the axis 53 and the other end of the second drive lever 54 moves, the connecting link 57 moves together with the other end of the second drive lever 54, and consequently the first end element 36 (especially the through portion) moves together with the connecting link 57 in the sliding direction Ds. In particular, when the first end element 36 and the second end element 37 are engaged with each other by the engaging portions (convex portion 61 and concave portion 62), if force is transmitted to the first end element 36 via the connecting link 57 and the connecting pin 56, not only the first end element 36 but also the second end element 37 moves in the sliding direction Ds.

[0059] According to the slide drive mechanism 33 example shown in Figures 2 to 5 above, when the slider part 35 is moved from the basic position to the relaxed position in the sliding direction Ds, the amount of protrusion of the drive shaft 51a from the body of the slide drive source 51 is reduced, and one end of the first drive lever 52 is moved upward. As a result, the second drive lever 54 swings around the shaft 53, and the connecting link 57 moves to the right in Figure 4, and as a result, the first end element 36 and the second end element 37 also move from the basic position to the relaxed position to the right in Figure 4. On the other hand, when the slider part 35 is moved from the basic position to the tensioned position in the sliding direction Ds, the amount of protrusion of the drive shaft 51a from the body of the slide drive source 51 is increased, and one end of the first drive lever 52 is moved downward. As a result, the second drive lever 54 swings around the shaft 53, and the connecting link 57 moves to the left in Figure 4, and as a result, the first end element 36 and the second end element 37 also move from the basic position to the tensioned position to the left in Figure 4.

[0060] [Second Embodiment] In this embodiment, elements identical to or corresponding to those in the first embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0061] The slider portion 35, which is provided to be movable from the basic position, is provided only on one end side of the bag support device 30 (first support member 31 and second support member 32) in the first embodiment described above, but it may also be provided on both end sides of the bag support device 30. That is, the slider portion 35 may have a first slide unit that supports one end side of the bag B and a second slide unit that supports the other end side of the bag B. In this case, the slide drive mechanism 33 may enlarge the opening area of ​​the mouth of the bag B by moving at least one of the first slide unit and the second slide unit from the basic position to the relaxed position while the bag support device 30 is supporting the bag B.

[0062] Figure 6 is an enlarged overhead view showing a part of an example of a vacuum packaging machine 1 according to the second embodiment (particularly the vacuum chamber 12), with the inside of the vacuum chamber 12 shown in perspective. Figure 7 is a front view of the vacuum chamber 12 and slide drive mechanism 33 shown in Figure 6 (however, the lid 14 is not shown).

[0063] In the examples shown in Figures 6 and 7, the slider section 35 is provided with a first slide unit 35A that supports one end of the bag B and a second slide unit 35B that supports the other end of the bag B.

[0064] The first slide unit 35A moves in the sliding direction Ds between its basic position and a tensile position located further away from the second slide unit 35B than the basic position. The second slide unit 35B moves in the sliding direction Ds between its basic position and a relaxed position located closer to the first slide unit 35A than the basic position.

[0065] The distance Ds in the sliding direction between the base position and the tension position of the first slide unit 35A may be the same as or different from the distance Ds in the sliding direction between the base position and the slack position of the second slide unit 35B.

[0066] Each of the first slide unit 35A and the second slide unit 35B has the same configuration as the slider section 35 shown in Figures 2 to 5 above. Specifically, the first slide unit 35A comprises a "first tip element 36 having a through section connected to a connecting pin 56, a bag support section, and a protrusion" and a "second tip element 37 having a tip slide movable section, a tip slide support section, and a recess." On the other hand, the second slide unit 35B comprises a "first base element 38 having a bag support section and a protrusion" and a "second base element 39 having a base slide movable section, a base slide support section, and a recess." The "base slide movable section and base slide support section" are configured in the same way as the "tip slide movable section and tip slide support section" described above.

[0067] Therefore, in the second slide unit 35B, similar to the first slide unit 35A, the first base element 38 has a through portion that is integrally provided with the bag support portion, and the through portion connected to the connecting pin 56 passes through the slide elongated hole 60.

[0068] In this embodiment, a first anti-rotation pin 65A extends parallel to the tip slide support portion 37b of the second tip element 37 (i.e., adjacent to the tip slide support portion 37b), and a second anti-rotation pin 65B extends parallel to the base slide support portion of the second base element 39 (i.e., adjacent to the base slide support portion), both protruding from the pivot support portion 69. The first anti-rotation pin 65A supports the first base portion 66A so as to be movable in the sliding direction Ds, and the tip slide movable portion and the first base portion 66A move integrally in the sliding direction Ds. The second anti-rotation pin 65B supports the second base portion 66B so as to be movable in the sliding direction Ds, and the base slide movable portion and the second base portion 66B move integrally in the sliding direction Ds.

[0069] A first sliding elastic body 40A, supported by the first sliding pin 65A, is provided between the pin head 65a of the first anti-rotation pin 65A and the first base 66A. A second sliding elastic body 40B, supported by the second anti-rotation pin 65B, is provided between the pivot support portion 69 and the second base 66B. In this example, the first sliding elastic body 40A and the second sliding elastic body 40B are composed of compression springs through which the anti-rotation pins 65A and 65B pass, respectively.

[0070] Since the first base 66A is installed on the opposite side of the pinhead 65a via the first slide elastic body 40A, it receives an elastic force from the first slide elastic body 40A that tries to return it to the swivel support 69 side (i.e., the second slide unit 35B side). The movement of the first base 66A (and by extension the second tip element 37 (especially the tip slide movable part)) toward the swivel support 69 side, which is subjected to such an elastic force, is limited by the swivel support 69, which functions as a stopper. Therefore, in a natural state where no external force is applied, the first base 66A is positioned in a basic position adjacent to the swivel support 69, receiving the elastic force from the first slide elastic body 40A.

[0071] On the other hand, since the second base portion 66B is provided on the opposite side of the pivot support portion 69 via the second slide elastic body 40B, it receives an elastic force from the second slide elastic body 40B that tries to return it to the pinhead 65a side (i.e., the side away from the first slide unit 35A). The movement of the second base portion 66B (and by extension the second base end element 39 (especially the base end slide movable portion)) toward the pinhead 65a, which is subjected to such an elastic force, is limited by the pinhead 65a, which functions as a stopper. In a natural state where no external force is applied, the second base portion 66B is positioned in a basic position adjacent to the pinhead 65a of the second anti-rotation pin 65B, receiving the elastic force from the second slide elastic body 40B.

[0072] In the example shown in Figures 6 and 7, the slide drive mechanism 33 is provided with a first slide drive mechanism 33A for moving the first slide unit 35A and a second slide drive mechanism 33B for moving the second slide unit 35B.

[0073] The first slide drive mechanism 33A and the second slide drive mechanism 33B each have the same configuration as the slide drive mechanism 33 shown in Figures 2 to 5. Specifically, the first slide drive mechanism 33A comprises a slide drive source 51, a first drive lever 52, a shaft 53, a second drive lever 54, a connecting pin 55, a connecting pin 56, and a connecting link 57, all of the same configuration as the slide drive mechanism 33 shown in Figures 2 to 5. The second slide drive mechanism 33B also has the same configuration as the slide drive mechanism 33 shown in Figures 2 to 5, but comprises a slide drive source 51, a first drive lever 52, a shaft 53, a second drive lever 54, a connecting pin 55, a connecting pin 56, and a connecting link 57, all of which are arranged mirror-symmetrically.

[0074] According to the first slide drive mechanism 33A of the example shown in Figures 6 and 7 above, the first slide unit 35A can be positioned in both the basic position and the tensioned position. In this embodiment as well, when the second support member 32 moves from the separated position to the support position, the second tip element 37 is biased by the first slide elastic body 40A via the first base 66A and positioned in the basic position, while the first tip element 36 is also positioned in the basic position by the first slide drive mechanism 33A. In this way, the second support member 32 moves to the support position with the convex portion of the first tip element 36 and the concave portion of the second tip element 37 positioned to correspond to each other in the basic position, so that the engagement between the convex portion of the first tip element 36 and the concave portion of the second tip element 37 is smooth and reliable.

[0075] When the first slide unit 35A is moved from its basic position to the tensioned position in the sliding direction Ds by the first slide drive mechanism 33A, the amount of protrusion of the drive shaft 51a from the body of the slide drive source 51 is increased, and one end of the first drive lever 52 is moved downward. As a result, the second drive lever 54 of the first slide drive mechanism 33A swings around the shaft 53, and the connecting link 57 moves to the left in Figure 7, and as a result, the first end element 36 and the second end element 37 also move from their basic positions to the tensioned position to the left in Figure 6.

[0076] On the other hand, according to the second slide drive mechanism 33B of the example shown in Figures 6 and 7, the second slide unit 35B can be positioned in both the basic position and the relaxed position. Similar to the first slide unit 35A described above, when the second support member 32 moves from the separated position to the support position, the second base element 39 is biased by the second slide elastic body 40B via the second base 66B and positioned in the basic position, while the first base element 38 is also positioned in the basic position by the second slide drive mechanism 33B. In this way, the second support member 32 moves to the support position with the convex portion of the first base element 38 and the concave portion of the second base element 39 positioned to correspond to each other in the basic position, so that the engagement of the convex portion of the first base element 38 and the concave portion of the second base element 39 is smooth and reliable.

[0077] When the second slide unit 35B is moved from its basic position to its relaxed position in the sliding direction Ds by the second slide drive mechanism 33B, the amount of protrusion of the drive shaft 51a from the body of the slide drive source 51 is reduced, and one end of the first drive lever 52 is moved upward. As a result, the second drive lever 54 of the second slide drive mechanism 33B swings around the shaft 53, and the connecting link 57 moves to the left in Figure 7. Consequently, the first base element 38 and the second base element 39 also move from their basic positions to the relaxed position to the left in Figure 6.

[0078] As described above, the first slide unit 35A and the second slide unit 35B can be driven to slide independently of each other. Therefore, by adjusting the driving timing of the first slide unit 35A and the second slide unit 35B, it is possible to place the bag B in the standard state (basic position), the flexed state (relaxed position), and the tensed state (tensioned position) at the desired timing.

[0079] Furthermore, if the distance Ds in the sliding direction between the base position and the tension position of the first slide unit 35A is different from the distance Ds in the sliding direction between the base position and the slack position of the second slide unit 35B, the first slide drive mechanism 33A may simultaneously drive the first slide unit 35A to the tension position, and the second slide drive mechanism 33B may simultaneously drive the second slide unit 35B to the slack position. In this case, if the distance between the base position and the tension position of the first slide unit 35A is greater than the distance between the base position and the slack position of the second slide unit 35B, the bag B will be placed in a relatively weakly taut state. Also in this case, if the distance between the base position and the tension position of the first slide unit 35A is smaller than the distance between the base position and the slack position of the second slide unit 35B, the bag B will be placed in a relatively weakly flexed state.

[0080] [Third Embodiment] In this embodiment, elements identical to or corresponding to those in the first embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0081] Figure 8 is an enlarged view of a portion of the vacuum chamber 12 in an example of the third embodiment. Figures 9A to 9D are diagrams illustrating the opening and closing behavior of the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 and the sliding behavior of the slider portion 35 in the example shown in Figure 8.

[0082] The bag support device 30 of the first and second embodiments described above supports the bag B when the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 are positioned in a support position, and releases support from the bag B when they are positioned in a separated position, which is further away from each other than the support position. When the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 move from the separated position to the support position (especially just before they are positioned in the support position), the first tip element 36 and the second tip element 37 constituting the slider portion 35 must be aligned with each other so that the convex portion 61 and the concave portion 62 can engage with each other.

[0083] In this embodiment, the magnetic force exerted by the locking mechanism is used to align the first tip element 36 and the second tip element 37. Below, a first locking mode and a second locking mode relating to the alignment of the first tip element 36 and the second tip element 37 will be described illustratively.

[0084] [First locking mode] The vacuum packaging machine 1 in this embodiment has locking parts 81 and 82 that exert magnetic force to position the second tip element 37 in its basic position. In the example shown in Figure 8, for example, such locking parts 81 and 82 can be formed by an anti-rotation pin 65 (particularly an intermediate pin portion 65b located in the middle of the anti-rotation pin 65) and a base portion 66, with the intermediate pin portion 65b configured as the first magnetic force acting part 81 and the base portion 66 configured as the second magnetic force acting part 82.

[0085] A magnetic force (particularly an attractive force) acts between the first magnetic force acting part 81 (pin intermediate part 65b) and the second magnetic force acting part 82 (base part 66). For example, one of the first magnetic force acting part 81 and the second magnetic force acting part 82 may be made of a magnet and the other of a magnetic material (e.g., a ferromagnetic material), or both may be made of magnets. The pin intermediate part 65b may be entirely made of the first magnetic force acting part 81, or only a part of it (e.g., only the surface or the interior) may be made of the first magnetic force acting part 81. Similarly, the base part 66 may be entirely made of the second magnetic force acting part 82, or only a part of it may be made of the second magnetic force acting part 82.

[0086] Furthermore, the vacuum packaging machine 1 (especially the components around the pin intermediate portion 65b and the base portion 66) has magnetic properties that do not substantially hinder the magnetic force acting between the first magnetic force acting portion 81 (pin intermediate portion 65b) and the second magnetic force acting portion 82 (base portion 66). For example, the tip slide movable portion 37a may be made of a magnetic material or a non-magnetic material (e.g., rubber, resin, or a non-magnetic metal (e.g., aluminum and stainless steel)). Also, if the pin intermediate portion 65b is made of a magnet, the other parts of the anti-rotation pin 65 may be made of a magnetic material or a non-magnetic material, but if the pin intermediate portion 65b is made of a magnetic material, the other parts of the anti-rotation pin 65 may be made of a non-magnetic material instead of a magnetic material. Also, if the base portion 66 is made of a magnet, the parts of the anti-rotation pin 65 other than the pin intermediate portion 65b may be made of a non-magnetic material instead of a magnetic material.

[0087] The slide drive mechanism 33 of this embodiment can have any configuration, and for example, it can have the same configuration as the slide drive mechanism 33 of the first embodiment described above (see Figures 2 to 5).

[0088] According to this embodiment, when the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 move from a separated position to a support position, in particular, immediately before the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 are positioned in the support position, the first tip element 36 is positioned in its basic position by the slide drive mechanism 33, and the second tip element 37 is positioned in its basic position by the magnetic force exerted by the locking parts 81 and 82.

[0089] Then, when the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 are supporting the bag B, the slide drive mechanism 33 applies a driving force to the first tip element 36 and the second tip element 37 that is opposed to the magnetic force exerted by the locking parts 81 and 82 when moving the slider part 35 from the basic position to the relaxed position or the tensed position. That is, with the first tip element 36 and the second tip element 37 fixed to each other via the convex part 61 and the concave part 62, the slide drive mechanism 33 connected to the first tip element 36 applies a driving force greater than the magnetic force (attraction) acting between the first magnetic force acting part 81 (pin intermediate part 65b) and the second magnetic force acting part 82 (base part 66) to the first tip element 36 in the sliding direction Ds, thereby moving the entire slider part 35 (first tip element 36 and second tip element 37) in the sliding direction Ds.

[0090] [Second locking mechanism] In this embodiment, the configurations and operations common to the first locking configuration described above will not be explained.

[0091] The vacuum packaging machine 1 of this embodiment includes locking parts 81 and 82 that are provided on at least one of the first tip element 36 and the second tip element 37 and exert magnetic force. In the example shown in Figure 8, for example, such locking parts 81 and 82 can be formed by a convex part 61 (first tip element 36) and a tip recess forming part 37c (second tip element 37), and the convex part 61 can be configured as the first magnetic force acting part 81, and the tip recess forming part 37c can be configured as the second magnetic force acting part 82. The tip recess forming part 37c is the part of the second tip element 37 that demarcates the recess 62, and includes the wall portion of the second tip element 37 that faces the convex part 61 when the convex part 61 and the recess 62 engage.

[0092] A magnetic force (particularly an attractive force) acts between the first magnetic force acting portion 81 (protrusion 61) and the second magnetic force acting portion 82 (tip recess forming portion 37c). For example, one of the first magnetic force acting portion 81 and the second magnetic force acting portion 82 may be made of a magnet and the other of a magnetic material (e.g., a ferromagnetic material), or both may be made of a magnet. The protrusion 61 may be entirely made of the first magnetic force acting portion 81, or only a part of it (e.g., only the surface or the interior) may be made of the first magnetic force acting portion 81. Similarly, the tip recess forming portion 37c may be entirely made of the second magnetic force acting portion 82, or only a part of it may be made of the second magnetic force acting portion 82.

[0093] Furthermore, the vacuum packaging machine 1 (especially the members surrounding the protrusion 61 and the tip recess forming portion 37c) has magnetic properties that do not substantially hinder the magnetic force acting between the first magnetic force acting portion 81 (protrusion 61) and the second magnetic force acting portion 82 (tip recess forming portion 37c). For example, the portion of the first tip element 36 other than the protrusion 61 may be made of a magnetic material or a non-magnetic material (e.g., rubber, resin, or non-magnetic metal (e.g., aluminum and stainless steel)). Also, if the protrusion 61 is made of a magnet, the portion of the second tip element 37 other than the tip recess forming portion 37c may be made of a non-magnetic material instead of a magnetic material. Also, if the tip recess forming portion 37c is made of a magnet, the portion of the second tip element 37 other than the tip recess forming portion 37c may be made of a magnetic material or a non-magnetic material.

[0094] In this embodiment as well, when the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 move from a separated position to a support position, particularly immediately before the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 are positioned in the support position, the first tip element 36 is positioned in its basic position by the slide drive mechanism 33, and the second tip element 37 is positioned in its basic position by the magnetic force exerted by the locking parts 81 and 82.

[0095] The slide drive mechanism 33 then applies a driving force to the first tip element 36 and the second tip element 37 when moving the slider portion 35 from the basic position to the relaxed position or the tensed position while the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 are supporting the bag B. That is, with the first tip element 36 and the second tip element 37 fixed to each other via the convex portion 61 and the concave portion 62, the slide drive mechanism 33 connected to the first tip element 36 applies a driving force to the first tip element 36 in the sliding direction Ds, thereby moving the slider portion 35 (first tip element 36 and second tip element 37) in the sliding direction Ds.

[0096] Next, with reference to Figures 9A to 9D, an example of the behavior of the vacuum packaging machine 1 (particularly the bag support device 30) shown in Figure 8 will be described.

[0097] First, the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 move from a separated position (Figure 9A) to a support position (Figure 9B). In the bag support device 30 of this example, as described above, the second support member 32 rotates so that it approaches the first support member 31 by the pivot axis 68 and the opening / closing arm 67 (see Figure 2), thereby positioning the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 in the support position. Although not shown in Figures 9A to 9D, a bag B is placed between the first support member 31 and the second support member 32, which are positioned in the support position. The area near the upper edge of the bag B (the part of the bag B located below the opening Bm) is gripped by the first support member 31 and the second support member 32, and the bag B is supported in a suspended state by the first support member 31 and the second support member 32.

[0098] In this manner, as the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 move from the separated position to the support position, the first support member 31 is positioned in its basic position by the slide drive mechanism 33 at least immediately before being placed in the support position.

[0099] On the other hand, in the case of the first locking configuration described above, the second support member 32 is positioned in its basic position by the locking parts 81 and 82 (the pin intermediate part 65b and the base part 66) when the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 move from the separated position to the support position. Also, in the case of the second locking configuration described above, the tip recess forming part 37c (second magnetic force acting part 82) of the second support member 32 receives a magnetic force that gradually increases in the direction approaching the convex part 61 (first magnetic force acting part 81) of the first support member 31, and is positioned in its basic position at least immediately before being placed in the support position.

[0100] Therefore, at least immediately before being placed in the support position, the convex portion 61 and the concave portion 62 (tip concave portion 37c) are aligned with each other, and when the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 are placed in the support position, the convex portion 61 and the concave portion 62 (tip concave portion 37c) engage smoothly with each other.

[0101] With the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 positioned in the support position, the slide drive mechanism 33 is driven to move the first tip element 36 from the basic position to the relaxed position. As a result, the first tip element 36 and the second tip element 37 (slider portion 35), which are fixed to each other in the sliding direction Ds via the convex portion 61 and the concave portion 62, move together and are positioned in the relaxed position (see Figure 9D). Consequently, the opening of the bag B, which is supported by the first support member 31 and the second support member 32, is relaxed.

[0102] On the other hand, with the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 positioned in the support position, the slide drive mechanism 33 is driven to move the first tip element 36 from its basic position to the tensioned position. As a result, the first tip element 36 and the second tip element 37, which are fixed to each other in the sliding direction Ds via the convex portion 61 and the concave portion 62, move together to the tensioned position (see Figure 9C). Consequently, the opening of the bag B, which is supported by the first support member 31 and the second support member 32, is tensed.

[0103] [Vacuum packaging method] Next, we will describe an example of a vacuum packaging method performed by the vacuum packaging machine 1 shown in Figures 1 to 9D above.

[0104] As described above, the vacuum packaging machine 1 is successively supplied with "filled bags that contain contents inside, but in which at least a portion of the opening Bm (in this example, the central part of the opening Bm in the width direction) is left open and not sealed" from the bagging packaging machine 2. The vacuum packaging machine 1 then sequentially performs the above-mentioned shaping process, vacuuming process, sealing process, and natural cooling process on the filled bags that are successively supplied from the bagging packaging machine 2 within the vacuum chamber 12, and then discharges the filled bags (product bags) from the vacuum chamber 12 to the product discharge conveyor 20.

[0105] In particular, in this embodiment, prior to the sealing of the opening Bm of the bag B by the sealing device 90, the vacuum packaging machine 1 moves the slider portion 35 of the bag support device 30 from its basic position to a relaxed position at least once while the bag support device 30 is supporting the bag B in a vacuum environment inside the vacuum chamber 12. This expands the opening area of ​​the opening Bm prior to the sealing of the opening Bm, significantly accelerating the vacuuming (vacuum treatment) of the gas inside the bag B.

[0106] In the vacuum packaging machine 1 shown in Figures 2 to 9D above, the sliding motion of the slider portion 35 from the basic position to the relaxed position is performed only while the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 are positioned in the support position. Therefore, in this embodiment, with the first support member 31 and the second support member 32 in the support position, a relaxation process is performed in which the slider portion 35 is moved from the basic position to the relaxed position at least once, and then a sealing process is performed to seal the opening Bm of the bag B.

[0107] Such a relaxation process is performed while the opening Bm of bag B is not sealed by the sealing device 90. Therefore, while the relaxation process is being performed, the pair of heaters of the sealing device 90 are kept at a temperature lower than the "sealing temperature at which the opening Bm of bag B can be heat-sealed". Consequently, the pair of heaters of the sealing device 90 are neither heated nor heated during the relaxation process, and are only heated or heated during the subsequent sealing process.

[0108] During at least part of the vacuum treatment period, the opening Bm of bag B is in a sagging state due to the relaxation process, but the timing of moving the slider 35 from the basic position to the relaxed position is not limited. In other words, the timing of moving the slider 35 from the basic position to the relaxed position may be before, after, or simultaneously with the timing of starting the process of creating a vacuum in the vacuum chamber 12 for vacuum treatment (vacuum start timing).

[0109] In the relaxation process described above, the number of times the slider 35 is moved from the basic position to the relaxation position (i.e., the number of times the slider 35 is placed in the relaxation position) may be only once or multiple times. If the slider 35 is moved from the basic position to the relaxation position multiple times, the slider 35 may be placed in the relaxation position two or more times consecutively, or the slider 35 may be placed in the relaxation position two or more times with a certain time interval (for example, an interval of 1 second or more) in between.

[0110] Furthermore, the control unit (see control panel 16 shown in Figure 1) that controls the slide drive mechanism 33 may adaptively determine the number of times to move the slider part 35 from the basic position to the relaxed position based on the detection results of various sensors. For example, the control unit may monitor the opening state of the mouth Bm of the bag B inside each vacuum chamber 12 using a sensor (e.g., a camera (imaging device)) not shown. In this case, the control unit may, based on the monitoring results, control the slide drive mechanism 33 to repeat the relaxation process of moving the slider part 35 from the basic position to the relaxed position if it determines that the deflection state (deflection shape) of the mouth Bm when the slider part 35 moves from the basic position to the relaxed position is inappropriate.

[0111] As described above, the vacuum packaging machine 1 and vacuum packaging method described above allow for more reliable and effective vacuuming of multiple bags B. Therefore, the vacuum packaging machine 1 can use a relatively small, inexpensive, and compact pump with a small pump capacity as the pump for creating a vacuum in the inner space of the vacuum chamber 12. In addition, the time required to vacuum each bag B can be reduced.

[0112] [Differentiation] In the first embodiment (see Figures 2 to 5) and the third embodiment (see Figures 8 to 9D) described above, the slider portion 35, which is provided only on one end of the bag support device 30 (first support member 31 and second support member 32), is slidably driven by the slide drive mechanism 33. However, in these embodiments, instead of the slider portion 35 slidably driven by the slide drive mechanism 33 on one end of the bag support device 30 as shown, the slider portion 35 may be provided on the other end.

[0113] Furthermore, in the second embodiment described above (see Figures 6 and 7), the slider parts (slide units 35A, 35B) provided on both ends of the bag support device 30 (first support member 31 and second support member 32) may be provided on the ends opposite to those shown in the illustration. That is, the first slide unit 35A (first tip element 36 and second tip element 37) is configured to slide between the basic position (neutral position) and the tensioned position in the example shown in Figures 6 and 7, but it may also be configured to slide between the basic position and the relaxed position. Similarly, the second slide unit 35B (first base element 38 and second base element 39) is configured to slide between the basic position (neutral position) and the relaxed position in the example shown in Figures 6 and 7, but it may also be configured to slide between the basic position and the tensioned position.

[0114] In the examples shown in Figures 2 to 9D, an engagement portion based on a combination of a convex portion 61 and a concave portion 62 is used as a mounting means for moving the first end element 36 and the second end element 37 together as a slider portion 35. However, it is sufficient if the convex portion 61 is provided on one of the first end element 36 and the second end element 37 and the concave portion 62 is provided on the other. Therefore, the concave portion 62 may be provided on the first end element 36 and the convex portion 61 may be provided on the second end element 37.

[0115] Alternatively, any other fixing means may be provided instead of the engaging portion (protrusion 61 and recess 62). For example, magnets may be attached to the first tip element 36 and the second tip element 37, thereby fixing the first tip element 36 and the second tip element 37 to each other in the support position by magnetic force.

[0116] Furthermore, although an air cylinder is used as the slide drive source 51 in the example described above, any other drive device may be used, and a motor (for example, a servo motor) may be used.

[0117] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, prior to the sealing of the mouth Bm of the bag B by the sealing device 90, the opening area of ​​the mouth Bm is enlarged by moving the slider portion 35 of the bag support device 30 from its basic position to a relaxed position at least once while the bag support device 30 is supporting the bag B in a vacuum environment. However, such a slider portion 35 is not necessarily required. For example, prior to the sealing of the mouth Bm by the sealing device 90, the opening area of ​​the mouth Bm may be enlarged at least once by the bag support device 30 (for example, a gripping device such as a gripper that holds the bag B in the vacuum chamber 12) while the bag support device 30 is supporting the bag B in a vacuum environment inside the vacuum chamber 12.

[0118] Figure 10 is a front view showing another example of the vacuum chamber 12 and bag support device 30 (the lid 14 is not shown). In the example shown in Figure 10, the bag support device 30 is provided with a first gripper mechanism 71A and a second gripper mechanism 71B. Each gripper mechanism 71A, 71B has a gripper (first gripper 72A, second gripper 72B) that can releasably support the bag B (especially the lateral end), and a gripper support movement part (first gripper support movement part 73A, second gripper support movement part 73B) that can move the grippers 72A, 72B toward each other and toward each other (i.e., in the width direction of the bag B). A vacuum packaging method may be implemented using the vacuum packaging machine 1 shown in Figure 10, which includes the steps of sealing the opening Bm of the bag B with a sealing device 90, and prior to the sealing of the opening Bm by the sealing device 90, the steps of the gripper mechanisms 71A and 71B (bag support devices 30) supporting the bag B in a vacuum environment inside the vacuum chamber 12, and the gripper mechanisms 71A and 71B expanding the opening area of ​​the opening Bm at least once.

[0119] It should be noted that the embodiments and modifications disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and should not be construed restrictively. The embodiments and modifications described above may be omitted, substituted, and modified in various ways without departing from the scope and spirit of the appended claims. For example, the embodiments and modifications described above may be combined in whole or in part, and other embodiments may be combined with the embodiments or modifications described above. Furthermore, the effects described herein are illustrative, and other effects may result.

[0120] The technical categories that embody the above-described technical concept are not limited. For example, the above-described technical concept may be embodied by a computer program that causes a computer to execute one or more steps included in a method for manufacturing or using the above-described device. Alternatively, the above-described technical concept may be embodied by a computer-readable, non-transitory recording medium on which such a computer program is recorded.

[0121] [Note] The following configurations also fall within the scope of the disclosed technology.

[0122] [Aspect 1] A bag support device having a slider section, It comprises a slide drive mechanism for moving the slider portion, The bag support device comprises a first support member and a second support member that is movably provided with respect to the first support member. The slider portion includes a first tip element formed from a part of the first support member and a second tip element formed from a part of the second support member. With the first support member and the second support member supporting the bag, the first tip element and the second tip element are fixed to each other so as to move integrally in the sliding direction. The slide drive mechanism, while the first support member and the second support member are supporting the bag, moves the slider portion from the basic position to the relaxed position in the sliding direction, thereby increasing the opening area of ​​the bag's mouth. Vacuum packaging machine.

[0123] [Aspect 2] The first support member includes a first base end element which is formed from a part of the first support member. The second support member includes a second base end element which is formed from a part of the second support member. With the first support member and the second support member supporting the bag, the first base element and the second base element face each other, and the first tip element and the second tip element face each other. The slide drive mechanism moves the slider portion from the basic position to the relaxed position, thereby bringing the first tip element closer to the first base element, and the second tip element closer to the second base element. A sliding elastic body is provided that applies an elastic force to at least one of the first tip element and the second tip element, which attempts to return it to the basic position. A vacuum packaging machine as described in Embodiment 1.

[0124] [Aspect 3] The aforementioned slide elastic body includes a first slide elastic body and a second slide elastic body, The first slide elastic body and the second slide elastic body apply the elastic force to at least one of the first tip element and the second tip element in a direction along the sliding direction and in a direction opposite to each other. A vacuum packaging machine as described in Embodiment 2.

[0125] [Aspect 4] The slider portion comprises a first slide unit that supports one end of the bag and a second slide unit that supports the other end of the bag. The slide drive mechanism, while the bag support device is supporting the bag, moves at least one of the first slide unit and the second slide unit from the basic position to the relaxed position, thereby increasing the opening area of ​​the mouth. A vacuum packaging machine according to any one of embodiments 1 to 3.

[0126] [Aspect 5] The first slide unit moves in the sliding direction between the basic position and a tension position located further away from the second slide unit than the basic position. The second slide unit moves in the sliding direction between the basic position and the relaxed position which is located closer to the first slide unit than the basic position. A vacuum packaging machine as described in Embodiment 4.

[0127] [Aspect 6] The distance in the sliding direction between the basic position and the tensioned position of the first slide unit is the same as the distance in the sliding direction between the basic position and the relaxed position of the second slide unit. A vacuum packaging machine as described in Embodiment 5.

[0128] [Aspect 7] The distance in the sliding direction between the basic position and the tensioned position of the first slide unit is different from the distance in the sliding direction between the basic position and the relaxed position of the second slide unit. A vacuum packaging machine as described in Embodiment 5.

[0129] [Aspect 8] The locking part is provided with a magnetic force that positions the second tip element in the basic position, The slide drive mechanism is connected to the first tip element, The first support member and the second support member support the bag when positioned at the support position, and release the support of the bag when positioned at a distance greater from each other than the support position. When the first support member and the second support member move from the separated position to the support position, at least immediately before the first support member and the second support member are positioned in the support position, the first tip element is positioned in the basic position by the slide drive mechanism, and the second tip element is positioned in the basic position by the locking part. The slide drive mechanism applies a driving force to the first and second tip elements that resists the magnetic force when moving the slider portion from the basic position to the relaxed position while the first and second support members are supporting the bag. A vacuum packaging machine according to any one of embodiments 1 to 7.

[0130] [Aspect 9] The device is provided with a locking portion that is provided on at least one of the first tip element and the second tip element and exerts magnetic force, The slide drive mechanism is connected to the first tip element, The first support member and the second support member support the bag when positioned at the support position, and release the support of the bag when positioned at a distance greater from each other than the support position. When the first support member and the second support member move from the separated position to the support position, at least immediately before the first support member and the second support member are positioned in the support position, the first tip element is positioned in the basic position by the slide drive mechanism, and the second tip element is positioned in the basic position by the locking part. A vacuum packaging machine according to any one of embodiments 1 to 8.

[0131] [Aspect 10] The slide drive mechanism, while the first support member and the second support member are supporting the bag, moves the slider portion from the basic position to the tensioned position in the sliding direction, thereby tensing the opening compared to when the slider portion is positioned in the basic position. A vacuum packaging machine according to any one of embodiments 1 to 9.

[0132] [Aspect 11] A convex portion is provided on one of the first tip element and the second tip element, and a concave portion is provided on the other. With the first support member and the second support member positioned to support the bag, the protrusion engages with the recess, fixing the first tip element and the second tip element to each other in the sliding direction. With the first support member and the second support member positioned at a distance greater from each other than the support position, the protrusion is spaced apart from the recess, and the first tip element and the second tip element are not fixed to each other in the sliding direction. A vacuum packaging machine according to any one of embodiments 1 to 10.

[0133] [Aspect 12] A vacuum chamber having an inner space where the bags supported by the bag support device are arranged, and providing a vacuum environment, It includes a sealing device for sealing the opening, Prior to the sealing of the opening by the sealing device, the slide drive mechanism moves the slider portion at least once from the basic position to the relaxed position in the sliding direction while the bag support device is supporting the bag in the vacuum environment. A vacuum packaging machine according to any one of embodiments 1 to 11.

[0134] [Aspect 13] The process involves sealing the opening of the bag with a sealing device, Prior to the sealing of the opening by the sealing device, the bag support device, while supporting the bag in a vacuum environment, performs a step of increasing the opening area of ​​the opening at least once. A vacuum packaging method including

[0135] [Aspect 14] The vacuum packaging method according to embodiment 13, performed using a vacuum packaging machine described in any one of embodiments 1 to 12. [Explanation of symbols]

[0136] 1 Vacuum packaging machine, 2 Bagging and packaging machine, 3 Table, 4 Gripper, 5 Bag feeding device, 6 Printing device, 7 Bag opening device, 8 Follow-type opening guide device, 9 Hopper, 10 Filling nozzle, 11 Table, 12 Vacuum chamber, 13 Chamber body, 14 Lid, 15 Mounting part, 16 Control panel, 20 Product discharge conveyor, 30 Bag support device, 31 First support member, 32 Second support member, 33 Slide drive mechanism, 33A First slide drive mechanism, 33B Second slide drive mechanism, 35 Slider part, 35A First slide unit, 35B Second slide unit, 36 First tip element, 37 Second tip element, 37a Tip slide movable part, 37b Tip slide support part, 37c Tip recess forming part, 38 First base element, 39 Second base element, 40A First slide elastic body, 40B 41 Second slide elastic body, 42 First slide elastic body, 45 Second slide elastic body, 45 Base structure, 50 Mounting plate, 51 Slide drive source, 51a Drive shaft, 52 First drive lever, 53 Shaft, 54 Second drive lever, 55 Connecting pin, 56 Connecting pin, 57 Connecting link, 58 Seal member, 59 Bearing, 60 Slide elongated hole, 61 Convex part, 62 Concave part, 65 Anti-rotation pin, 65A First anti-rotation pin, 65B Second anti-rotation pin, 65a Pin head, 65b Pin middle part, 66 Base, 66A First base, 66B Second base, 67 Opening / closing arm, 68 Swivel shaft, 69 Swivel support part, 71A First gripper mechanism, 71B Second gripper mechanism, 72A First gripper, 72B Second gripper, 73A First gripper support moving part, 73B Second gripper support moving part, 81 First magnetic force acting part, 82 Second magnetic force acting part, 90 Sealing device, Ds Sliding direction, B Bag, Bm Opening

Claims

1. A bag support device having a slider section, It comprises a slide drive mechanism for moving the slider portion, The bag support device comprises a first support member and a second support member that is movably provided with respect to the first support member. The slider portion includes a first tip element formed from a part of the first support member and a second tip element formed from a part of the second support member. With the first support member and the second support member supporting the bag, the first tip element and the second tip element are fixed to each other so as to move integrally in the sliding direction. The slide drive mechanism, while the first support member and the second support member are supporting the bag, moves the slider portion from the basic position to the relaxed position in the sliding direction, thereby increasing the opening area of ​​the bag's mouth. Vacuum packaging machine.

2. The first support member includes a first base end element which is formed from a part of the first support member. The second support member includes a second base end element which is formed from a part of the second support member. With the first support member and the second support member supporting the bag, the first base element and the second base element face each other, and the first tip element and the second tip element face each other. The slide drive mechanism moves the slider portion from the basic position to the relaxed position, thereby bringing the first tip element closer to the first base element, and the second tip element closer to the second base element. A sliding elastic body is provided that applies an elastic force to at least one of the first tip element and the second tip element, which attempts to return it to the basic position. The vacuum packaging machine according to claim 1.

3. The slide elastic body includes a first slide elastic body and a second slide elastic body, The first slide elastic body and the second slide elastic body apply the elastic force to at least one of the first tip element and the second tip element in a direction along the sliding direction and in a direction opposite to each other. The vacuum packaging machine according to claim 2.

4. The slider portion comprises a first slide unit that supports one end of the bag and a second slide unit that supports the other end of the bag. The slide drive mechanism, while the bag support device is supporting the bag, moves at least one of the first slide unit and the second slide unit from the basic position to the relaxed position, thereby increasing the opening area of ​​the mouth. The vacuum packaging machine according to claim 1.

5. The first slide unit moves in the sliding direction between the basic position and a tension position located further away from the second slide unit than the basic position. The second slide unit moves in the sliding direction between the basic position and the relaxed position which is located closer to the first slide unit than the basic position. The vacuum packaging machine according to claim 4.

6. The distance in the sliding direction between the basic position and the tensioned position of the first slide unit is the same as the distance in the sliding direction between the basic position and the relaxed position of the second slide unit. The vacuum packaging machine according to claim 5.

7. The distance in the sliding direction between the basic position and the tension position of the first slide unit is different from the distance in the sliding direction between the basic position and the relaxation position of the second slide unit. The vacuum packaging machine according to claim 5.

8. The locking part is provided with a magnetic force that positions the second tip element in the basic position, The slide drive mechanism is connected to the first tip element, The first support member and the second support member support the bag when positioned at the support position, and release the support of the bag when positioned at a distance greater from each other than the support position. When the first support member and the second support member move from the separated position to the support position, at least immediately before the first support member and the second support member are positioned in the support position, the first tip element is positioned in the basic position by the slide drive mechanism, and the second tip element is positioned in the basic position by the locking part. The slide drive mechanism applies a driving force to the first and second tip elements that resists the magnetic force when moving the slider portion from the basic position to the relaxed position while the first and second support members are supporting the bag. The vacuum packaging machine according to claim 1.

9. The device is provided with a locking portion that exerts magnetic force on at least one of the first tip element and the second tip element, The slide drive mechanism is connected to the first tip element, The first support member and the second support member support the bag when positioned at the support position, and release the support of the bag when positioned at a distance greater from each other than the support position. When the first support member and the second support member move from the separated position to the support position, at least immediately before the first support member and the second support member are positioned in the support position, the first tip element is positioned in the basic position by the slide drive mechanism, and the second tip element is positioned in the basic position by the locking part. The vacuum packaging machine according to claim 1.

10. The slide drive mechanism, while the first support member and the second support member are supporting the bag, moves the slider portion from the basic position to the tensioned position in the sliding direction, thereby tensing the opening compared to when the slider portion is positioned in the basic position. The vacuum packaging machine according to claim 1.

11. A convex portion is provided on one of the first tip element and the second tip element, and a concave portion is provided on the other. With the first support member and the second support member positioned to support the bag, the protrusion engages with the recess, fixing the first tip element and the second tip element to each other in the sliding direction. With the first support member and the second support member positioned at a distance greater from each other than the support position, the protrusion is spaced apart from the recess, and the first tip element and the second tip element are not fixed to each other in the sliding direction. The vacuum packaging machine according to claim 1.

12. A vacuum chamber having an inner space where the bags supported by the bag support device are arranged, and providing a vacuum environment, It includes a sealing device for sealing the opening, Prior to the sealing of the opening by the sealing device, the slide drive mechanism moves the slider portion at least once from the basic position to the relaxed position in the sliding direction while the bag support device is supporting the bag in the vacuum environment. The vacuum packaging machine according to claim 1.

13. The process involves sealing the opening of the bag with a sealing device, Prior to the sealing of the opening by the sealing device, the bag support device, while supporting the bag in a vacuum environment, performs a step of increasing the opening area of ​​the opening at least once. A vacuum packaging method including

14. The vacuum packaging method according to claim 13, performed by a vacuum packaging machine according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

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