Package forming apparatus for a packaging machine, packaging machine and package forming method for forming packages filled with dispenseable products

Abstract

A package forming apparatus (10) is described for manipulating a tube (4) extending along a central axis (A) to form a package (2). The package forming apparatus (10) comprises at least one actuator (20) configured to form the tube (4) at least partially, the actuator (20) comprising at least a first element (23) and a second element (24) configured to compress the tube (4) at least laterally along a cross section (25). The package forming apparatus (10) comprises a control unit configured to selectively control the first element (23) and the second element (24) between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The control unit is configured to move the first element (23) and the second element (24) along a direction of movement (D) perpendicular to the central axis (A) while they are in a closed configuration.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a package forming device for a packaging machine for forming packages filled with pourable products, especially pourable food products.

[0002] Advantageously, the present invention relates to a packaging machine for forming packages filled with pourable products, especially pourable food products.

[0003] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for forming packages filled with pourable products, especially pourable food products.

Background Art

[0004] As is well known, many liquid or pourable food products, such as fruit juice, UHT (ultra-high temperature treated) milk, wine, tomato sauce, etc., are sold in packages made of sterilized packaging materials.

[0005] As a typical example, there is a parallelepiped package for liquid or pourable food known as Tetra Brik Aseptic (registered trademark), which is formed by sealing and folding a laminated strip-shaped packaging material. This packaging material has a multilayer structure in which, for example, both sides of a paper base layer are covered with heat-sealing plastic layers such as polyethylene. In the case of aseptic packaging for long-term storage products such as UHT milk, the packaging material includes a layer of an oxygen barrier material (oxygen barrier layer), for example, an aluminum foil, which is overlapped with a heat-sealing plastic layer and finally covered with a further heat-sealing plastic layer that defines the inner surface of the package that contacts the food. <(

[0006] Each package comprises a bottom wall positioned on a support surface, an upper wall offset axially from the bottom wall, and side walls connected between the bottom and upper walls and positioned between them. Packages in which the bottom and upper walls are approximately parallel to each other and packages in which the upper wall is inclined with respect to the bottom wall are known. Examples of the latter type of package include the well-known Tetra Brik® Edge package and the Tetra Brik® Aseptic Edge package.

[0007] This type of packaging is typically manufactured using a fully automated packaging machine, which sterilizes the packaging material web through a sterilization device in a sterilization station, and then the sterilized packaging material web is maintained and advanced into an isolation chamber (a closed, sterile environment). While the packaging material web advances through the isolation chamber, it is folded longitudinally and sealed in a tube forming station to form a tube with a longitudinal seam, and the tube is further fed along the vertical advancement direction.

[0008] To complete the forming process, the tubes are filled with a dispensable product, particularly a dispensable food, and sealed along equally spaced transverse sections while being transported vertically within the package forming device of a packaging machine, and then cut.

[0009] In this way, a pillow package is obtained, and each pillow package has a longitudinal sealing band, a transverse sealing band at the top, and a transverse sealing band at the bottom.

[0010] In some packages, the bottom and top lateral sealing bands are aligned with each other and with respect to the package's longitudinal axis, but this arrangement is not the case in other packages, such as the Tetra Brik® Edge package and the Tetra Brik® Aseptic Edge package. In these cases, the top lateral sealing bands are each offset laterally from their respective longitudinal axes.

[0011] A typical packaging machine includes a web conveying device that conveys a web of packaging material along a web forward path and forms a tube from the web, which is then conveyed along a tube forward path; a sterilizing device that sterilizes the web of packaging material before it is formed into a tube; a tube forming and sealing device that is at least partially located in an isolation chamber and forms a tube from the conveyed web of packaging material and seals the tube longitudinally; a filling device that fills the tube with a product that can be dispensed; and a package forming device that forms individual packages from the packaging material of the tube, seals them laterally, and cuts them.

[0012] The package forming apparatus comprises at least one actuation device, the actuation device comprising at least a first actuation group and a second actuation group configured to at least partially form, laterally seal, and cut a forward tube during use.

[0013] Because the upper lateral sealing band forms a package that is offset laterally from the longitudinal axis, the operating device needs to be tilted when manipulating the tube. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0014] Despite the fact that known package forming devices and / or packaging machines function adequately, there is a desire in this field to further improve known package forming devices and / or packaging machines.

[0015] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an improved package forming apparatus.

[0016] Furthermore, an object of the present invention is to provide an improved packaging machine.

[0017] Furthermore, an object of the present invention is to provide an improved method for forming a package filled with a dispensable product. [Means for solving the problem]

[0018] According to the present invention, there is provided a package forming apparatus as set forth in claim 1.

[0019] Preferred non-limiting embodiments of the package forming apparatus are described in the claims that depend directly and indirectly from claim 1.

[0020] According to the present invention, there is provided a packaging machine as set forth in claim 15.

[0021] According to the present invention, there is further provided a method as set forth in claim 9.

[0022] Preferred embodiments of the method are described in the claims that depend directly or indirectly from claim 9.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0023] Non-limiting embodiments of the present invention will be exemplarily described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0024] [Figure 1] It is a schematic view of a packaging machine including a package forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention, with parts removed for clarity. [Figure 2] It is a schematic perspective view showing details of the package forming apparatus of FIG. 1, with parts removed for clarity. [Figure 3] It is a perspective view showing detailed operations of the package forming apparatus of FIG. 1, with parts removed for clarity. [Figure 4] It is a perspective view showing detailed operations of the package forming apparatus of FIG. 1, with parts removed for clarity. [Figure 5] It is a perspective view showing detailed operations of the package forming apparatus of FIG. 1, with parts removed for clarity. ; [Figure 6] It is a perspective view showing detailed operations of the package forming apparatus of FIG. 1, with parts removed for clarity. [Figure 7]Perspective view showing the detailed operation of the forming apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention, with parts removed for clarity. [Figure 8] Perspective view showing the detailed operation of the forming apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention, with parts removed for clarity. [Figure 9] Perspective view showing the detailed operation of the forming apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention, with parts removed for clarity. [Figure 10] Perspective view showing the detailed operation of the forming apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention, with parts removed for clarity.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0025] Number 1 shows the entire packaging machine for manufacturing the sealed package 2 of fluid products, particularly fluid food products, including, for example, milk, milk beverages, yogurt, yogurt beverages, fruit juices, wine, tomato sauce, emulsions, beverages containing pulp, salt, sugar, etc.

[0026] More specifically, the packaging machine 1 can be configured to manufacture the package 2 from a multilayer packaging material. Preferably, a multilayer packaging material having heat-sealability (i.e., multiple layers of the multilayer packaging material can be sealed to each other) is used.

[0027] Even more specifically, the multilayer packaging material may include at least one layer of fibrous material such as paper or cardboard, and at least two layers of heat-sealable plastic material layers (e.g., polyethylene) sandwiching the fibrous material layer. Preferably, one of these two layers of heat-sealable plastic material layers defines the inner surface that contacts the pourable product of the package 2.

[0028] Furthermore, the multilayer packaging material may include a gas and light barrier material layer such as an aluminum foil or an ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) film, and is preferably disposed between the heat-sealable plastic material layer and the fibrous material layer.

[0029] Preferably, the packaging material may include a further layer of heat-sealable plastic material sandwiched between a gas and light-blocking material layer and a fiber material layer.

[0030] More specifically, the multilayer packaging material may be provided in the form of a web 3.

[0031] Preferably, the web 3 comprises a sequentially arranged pattern that defines the final graphic pattern of the package 2. In other words, the packaging machine 1 operates so that, when in use, the package 2 contains each pattern.

[0032] Furthermore, the packaging machine 1 may be configured to form a tube 4 from the web 3, seal the tube 4 longitudinally, fill the tube 4 with a dispensable product, seal it laterally, and preferably cut it laterally to produce a package 2.

[0033] Preferably, the tube 4 may extend along the central axis A, and more preferably, it may have a vertical orientation.

[0034] In some possible non-limiting embodiments, each package 2 may extend along the longitudinal axis A.

[0035] In some possible embodiments, the package 2 has at least a first transverse seal band 5 located at the first end of the package 2, and preferably further has a second transverse seal band located at the second end opposite to the first end.

[0036] Preferably, the first transverse seal band 5 can be substantially spaced apart from the second transverse seal band along the longitudinal axis.

[0037] Preferably, the first lateral sealing band 5 defines the upper lateral sealing band, and the second lateral sealing band defines the lower lateral sealing band.

[0038] In some preferred, non-limiting embodiments, the first transverse seal band 5 and the second transverse seal band are offset from each other in the transverse direction.

[0039] In other words, the projection of the first transverse seal band 5 and the projection of the second transverse seal band are offset laterally from each other on a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and in particular, they are parallel to each other and offset laterally from each other.

[0040] More specifically, the first lateral sealing band 5 and the second lateral sealing band may each have a first center line and a second center line extending along the longest extensions of the first lateral sealing band 5 and the second lateral sealing band, respectively. In particular, when the first lateral sealing band 5 and the second lateral sealing band are projected onto a plane perpendicular to their respective longitudinal axes, the first center line and the second center line are positioned laterally offset from each other, and in particular, parallel to each other and laterally offset from each other.

[0041] In some preferred, non-limiting embodiments, the first lateral sealing band 5 may be offset laterally from the longitudinal axis, and the second lateral sealing band may be aligned with respect to the longitudinal axis.

[0042] In other words, the vertical axis intersects with the second center line, but not with the first center line.

[0043] Furthermore, package 2 further has a longitudinal seam 6. Preferably, the first transverse seal band 5 and / or the second transverse seal band may be lateral, preferably perpendicular, to the longitudinal seam 6.

[0044] Furthermore, each package 2 may comprise a first wall 7, preferably having a first lateral sealing band 5, and a second wall, preferably having a second lateral sealing band, positioned axially offset from the first wall 7. Additionally, each package 2 may comprise a side wall 9 interposed between the first wall 7 and the second wall and connected to them.

[0045] Preferably, the second wall defines the bottom wall, and the first wall 7 may define the top wall. Preferably, the bottom wall may have a support surface suitable for placement on a horizontal surface, such as a shelf in a delivery point, and the top wall faces the bottom wall.

[0046] In some preferred, non-limiting embodiments, the longitudinal axis is perpendicular to the second wall. Furthermore, at least a portion of the first wall 7 is inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis, i.e., the longitudinal axis and the first wall 7 are not substantially perpendicular. In other words, the longitudinal axis is substantially perpendicular to the second wall, but not substantially perpendicular to the first wall 7.

[0047] Furthermore, the first wall 7 and the second wall do not necessarily have to be parallel to each other.

[0048] Referring to Figure 1, the packaging machine 1 may include a package forming device 10 for sealing the tube 4 laterally and preferably cutting it laterally to obtain a semi-finished package, preferably a package pouch. Preferably, the package forming device 10 may be configured to form the tube 4.

[0049] Furthermore, the packaging machine 1 may include a final folding device that forms the package 2 from the semi-finished package received from the package forming device 10.

[0050] Furthermore, the packaging machine 1, - A web transport device 11 configured to advance the web 3 along the web advancement path P, preferably to the tube formation station, to form the web 3 into a tube 4 when in use, and to advance the tube 4 along the tube advancement path Q; - A tube forming and sealing device 12 configured to form a tube 4 from a web 3 during use and to seal the tube 4 in the longitudinal direction; and - A filling device 13 for filling tube 4 with a flowable product; It may be provided.

[0051] More specifically, the packaging machine 1 may further include an isolation chamber 14 that separates the internal environment 15 from the external environment 16. Preferably, the internal environment 15 may be a sterile environment containing controlled air.

[0052] Preferably, the tube forming and sealing device 12 may be located at least partially within the isolation chamber 14, particularly within the internal environment 15, and may be configured to bend the tube 4 within the isolation chamber 14, particularly within the internal environment 15, and to seal it along its longitudinal direction.

[0053] Furthermore, the packaging machine 1 may be equipped with a sterilization unit for sterilizing the web 3 in use, preferably the sterilization unit is located upstream of the tube forming and sealing device 12 along the web's forward path P.

[0054] More specifically, the conveying device 11 is configured to advance the tube 4 and intermediates of the tube 4 along the tube advance path Q, preferably from and / or within a portion of the tube forming and sealing device 12 and / or within the package forming device 10. Preferably, the expression “intermediate of the tube 4” means any configuration of the web 3 before obtaining the tube structure and after the folding of the web 3 by the tube forming and sealing device 12 has begun. That is, the intermediate products of the tube 4 are obtained as a result of stepwise folding of the web 3 to obtain the tube 4, preferably by overlapping the (longitudinal) ends of the web 3 with each other.

[0055] In some possible non-limiting embodiments, the tube forming and sealing apparatus 12 may be arranged such that the tubes 4 have a vertical orientation.

[0056] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the package forming apparatus 10 may comprise one or more, preferably more, actuators 20, each actuator 20 configured to operate the tube 4, preferably at least partially forming and / or sealing and / or cutting it laterally.

[0057] Preferably, the package forming apparatus 10 may be configured to control the operating device 20 and to form the tube 4 at least partially, and / or to seal the tube 4 transversely along equally spaced cross-sections, and / or preferably to cut it transversely.

[0058] In some possible non-limiting embodiments, the package forming apparatus 10 may comprise at least two actuators 20, preferably exactly two actuators 20.

[0059] Referring to Figure 2 in more detail, the actuation device 20 may also comprise at least a first actuation group 21 and a second actuation group 22 configured to cooperate with each other, which are configured to at least partially form and / or laterally seal and / or laterally cut the tube 4.

[0060] Preferably, the first actuation group 21 and the second actuation group 22 are movable relative to each other, and preferably, the first actuation group 21 and the second actuation group 22 may be movable toward and apart from each other.

[0061] More specifically, the actuation device 20 may be controllable between an active configuration in which the first actuation group 21 and the second actuation group 25 move toward each other to form at least partially the tube 4, preferably sealing it laterally and / or cutting it laterally, and a rest configuration in which the first actuation group 21 and the second actuation group 25 are pulled toward each other.

[0062] Furthermore, the package forming apparatus 10 may include a transport unit for advancing the first operating group 21 and the second operating group 22 along their respective forward paths.

[0063] More specifically, the forward path may comprise an actuation section in which each first actuation group 21 and each second actuation group 22 advances along the forward path direction of the tube 4 during use, and a return section in which the first actuation group 21 and each second actuation group 22 advance along the opposite direction to the forward path direction of the tube 4 during use, and is configured to advance in the opposite direction to the forward path direction of the tube 4 during use, returning each first actuation group 22 and each second actuation group 22 to the actuation section. In the particular embodiment disclosed, the actuation section and the return section substantially coincide, and the first actuation group 21 and the second actuation group 22 advance along the actuation section and the return section, respectively, and move in the opposite direction along the return section during use.

[0064] Furthermore, each actuation device 20 can be controlled from a rest configuration to an active configuration as the first actuation group 21 and the second actuation group 25 advance along the actuation section in order to at least partially form the tube 4, more preferably to seal the tube 4 laterally, and / or cut it.

[0065] More specifically, during use, after at least partial formation, preferably lateral sealing, and lateral cutting of the tube 4 are completed, the actuation device 20 may be controlled to return to the rest configuration.

[0066] In other words, as the first actuation group 22 and the second actuation group 25 advance along the actuation section, the first actuation group 21 and the second actuation group 22 may move closer to each other. After at least partial formation of the tube 4 and / or lateral sealing and / or lateral cutting is completed, the first actuation group 21 and the second actuation group 22 are pulled away from each other.

[0067] In some non-limiting embodiments, the package forming apparatus 10 may comprise two, preferably exactly two, actuation devices 20.

[0068] Referring to Figures 2-6, each actuation device 20 includes a first element 23 and a second element 24 configured to compress the tube 4 at least laterally along the cross-section 25.

[0069] More specifically, each first element 23 and each second element 24 may be configured to compress the tube 4 as it advances along the tube advance path Q, preferably by narrowing it to a flattened state.

[0070] Preferably, each first element 23 and each second element 24 may be configured to seal the tube 4 laterally along the cross-section 25. That is, each first element 23 and each second element 24 define at least a portion of the sealing device of each operating device 20.

[0071] In particular, each cross section 25, after being sealed, defines a lateral sealing band comprising a first lateral sealing band 5 of the first package 2 and a second lateral sealing band of the second package 2.

[0072] In some preferred non-limiting embodiments, each first actuation group 21 may comprise a first element 23, and each second actuation group 22 may comprise a second element 24.

[0073] More specifically, each first element 23 is provided with a source that generates the energy necessary to obtain a sealing effect, preferably configured to heat the packaging material. For example, the first element 23 may be a sonotrode equipped with an ultrasonic emitter, or the first element 23 may be equipped with an electromagnetic induction source. Each second element 24 may be a passive element (i.e., an element without an active source). For example, the second element 24 may be a metal anvil or a deformable pad.

[0074] Advantageously, each first element 23 and each second element 24 can be controlled between an open configuration in which the first element 23 and the second element 24 are separated from each other (removed laterally from the tube 4 during use) and a closed configuration in which the first element 23 and the second element 24 compress the tube 4 laterally along the cross section 25, preferably to a flattened state. Preferably, when the first element 23 and the second element 24 are in the open configuration, the first element 23 and the second element 24 do not interact with the tube 4.

[0075] Preferably, each first element 23 and each second element 24 can be controlled to an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively, by the operation of the first actuation group 21 and the second actuation group 22 moving apart or closer together.

[0076] More preferably, each first element 23 and each second element 24 can move between a closed configuration and an open configuration independently and / or in different ways from each other. That is, the movement of the first element 23 is not linked to the movement of the second element 24, and / or the first element 23 moves in a different way from the second element 24. For example, the movement of each first element 23, in particular linear movement, and the movement of each second element 24, in particular linear movement, may have different operating profiles, and / or moving speeds, and / or moving distances, and / or moving times.

[0077] Alternatively or additionally, each first element 23 and each second element 24 may be configured to move linearly between each closed and open configuration. Preferably, each first element 23 and each second element 24 does not move angularly when moving between each closed and open configuration.

[0078] More specifically, each first element 23 and each second element 24 may be movable along a direction of movement which is preferably perpendicular to, and more preferably vertical to, the central axis A.

[0079] Each first element 23 and each second element 24 are controlled to be in an open configuration and a closed configuration, respectively, when each actuator 20 is controlled to a rest configuration and an active configuration.

[0080] Furthermore, each operating device 20 may include at least one cutting assembly configured to cut the tube 4 laterally along the cross-section 25. Preferably, each cutting assembly may be configured to cut the tube 4 laterally after the tube 4 has been sealed by the respective first element 23 and second element 24.

[0081] Each cutting assembly may include a cutting blade associated with either the first actuation group 21 or the second actuation group 22, preferably the second actuation group 22.

[0082] Preferably, the cutting assembly is configured to cut each cross section 25 laterally, thereby forming a first portion connected to the tube 4 (forming part of the unfinished package 2) and a second portion forming part of the package 2 separated from the tube 4 by the cutting operation. Furthermore, the first portion may define a first lateral seal band 5 of the unfinished package 2, and the second portion may define a second lateral seal band of the package 2 separated from the tube 4.

[0083] Referring to Figures 2 to 6, each actuator device 20 may be configured to control the shell assembly 26 between an actuator configuration in which the shell assembly 26 forms at least part of the tube 4 and a standby configuration in which the shell assembly 26 is separated from the tube 4. In the specific examples shown in Figures 2 to 6, the lower shell assembly 26 is shown in the actuator configuration, and the process of the upper shell assembly 26 moving from the standby configuration to the actuator configuration is shown.

[0084] More specifically, each shell assembly 26 may include a first half shell 27 and a second half shell 28 configured to at least partially form a tube 4 when the shell assembly 26 is in an operating configuration.

[0085] Preferably, each first half shell 27 and each second half shell 28 may be configured to engage from the opposite side of the tube 4 when the shell assembly 26 is in the operating configuration.

[0086] More specifically, each first actuation group 21 includes a first half shell 27 of each shell assembly 26, and each second actuation group 22 includes a second half shell 28 of each shell assembly 26.

[0087] In some preferred, non-limiting embodiments, each shell assembly 26 is in an operating configuration and a standby configuration, and each actuator device 20 is in an active configuration and a rest configuration.

[0088] In some preferred, non-limiting embodiments, each first half shell 27 and each second half shell 28 may be separated from each other or brought close to each other while each shell assembly 26 is in a standby configuration and an operational configuration.

[0089] In some possible embodiments, the movement of each first half shell 27 and each second half shell 28 may include angular movement for controlling the shell assembly 26 to a standby configuration and an operational configuration.

[0090] In some possible embodiments, each first half shell 27 is rotatably coupled to a first element 23, and each second half shell 28 is rotatably coupled to a second element 24.

[0091] Alternatively, the movement of each first half shell 27 and each second half shell 28 may consist only of linear motion to control each shell assembly 26 between standby and operational configurations.

[0092] In some preferred, non-limiting embodiments, each first half shell 27 and each second half shell 28 may define and / or be coaxial with the central axis A when in the operating configuration.

[0093] In some preferred, non-limiting embodiments, each first element 23 and each second element 24 may be coupled to and / or associated with each shell assembly 26.

[0094] More specifically, each first element 23 may be coupled to and / or associated with each first half shell 27, and each second element 24 may be coupled to and / or associated with each second half shell 28.

[0095] In some possible embodiments, the movement of each first element 23 and each first half shell 27 may be dependent on or independent of each other. Furthermore, the movement of each second element 23 and each second half shell 28 may be dependent on or independent of each other.

[0096] In some preferred embodiments, the package forming apparatus 10 includes a control unit configured to selectively control each first element 23 and each second element 24 between a closed configuration and an open configuration.

[0097] Preferably, the control unit may be configured so that each first element 23 and each second element 24 can move independently of each other between a closed configuration and an open configuration.

[0098] Alternatively or additionally, the control unit may be configured to move each first element 23 and each second element 24 linearly between each closed configuration and each open configuration, preferably along each direction of movement.

[0099] Since the configuration is controlled from open to closed, the first element 23 and the second element 24 are moved facing each other, preferably linearly facing each other along the direction of movement.

[0100] Preferably, the control unit may be configured to control each actuator device 20 between an active configuration and a rest configuration, and / or to control each shell assembly 26 between an active configuration and a standby configuration.

[0101] As shown in the examples in Figures 3 to 6, the shell assembly 26 can be controlled in an operating configuration while each first element 23 and each second element 24 are controlled in a closed configuration.

[0102] An advantage is that, referring to Figures 3 to 6, the control unit is configured to move each first element 23 and each second element 24 along a displacement direction D that is lateral to the central axis A, preferably perpendicular. Preferably, the control unit is configured to move each first element 23 and each second element 24 along the displacement direction D when the first element 23 and each second element 24 are in a closed configuration. That is, the control unit is configured to move the first element 23 and each second element 24 along the displacement direction D after controlling the first element 23 and the second element 24 to a closed configuration and while maintaining the first element 23 and the second element 24 in a closed configuration.

[0103] Preferably, the control unit is configured to move the first element 23 and the second element 24 together, i.e., as a single body, along the displacement direction D.

[0104] In this way, each cross-section 25 also moves laterally.

[0105] Preferably, the displacement direction D and the movement directions of each first element 23 and each second element 24 may be parallel to each other.

[0106] More specifically, each section 25 defines a central plane that is (substantially) parallel to the central axis A.

[0107] In some preferred, non-limiting embodiments, each cross section 25 may be displaced laterally from the central axis A after each first element 23 and each second element 24 have been controlled to a closed configuration and before movement along the displacement direction D.

[0108] In other words, before the first element 23 and the second element 24 move along the displacement direction D, each central plane is displaced laterally from the central axis A.

[0109] Furthermore, when each actuator device 20 is controlled to its active configuration (i.e., the first element 23 and each second element 24 are in a closed configuration), and each first element 23 and each second element 24 (as a whole) is moved along the displacement direction D, each cross section 25 maintains a state of being displaced laterally from the central axis A. More preferably, the movement along the displacement direction D is configured such that each cross section 25 is further displaced laterally from the central axis A.

[0110] Furthermore, after each first element 23 and each second element 24 (as a single entity) moves along the displacement direction D, each central plane maintains a state of displacement parallel to and laterally relative to the central axis A.

[0111] Alternatively, after each first element 23 and each second element 24 are controlled to a closed configuration, each cross section 25 is coaxial with the central axis A before movement along the displacement direction D. Subsequently, as each first element 23 and each second element 24 move together along the displacement direction D, each cross section 25 may be displaced laterally from the central axis A.

[0112] In some preferred, non-limiting embodiments, the control unit may be configured such that each first element 23 and each second element 24 are arranged in a closed configuration, and that each first element 23 and each second element 24 are moved before the cutting operation of each cutting assembly is performed in use.

[0113] In some preferred, non-limiting embodiments, the control unit may be configured to move each shell assembly 26 and each first element 23 and each second element 24 simultaneously along the displacement direction D.

[0114] Preferably, after each first element 23 and each second element 24 are controlled to a closed configuration (and before they move as a single unit along the displacement direction D), the lateral displacement of each cross section 25 is obtained by the appropriate shape and / or design of each first element 23 and each second element 24.

[0115] Preferably, the control unit may be configured to move each first actuation group 21 and each second actuation group 22 as a whole, i.e., as a single unit, along the displacement direction D, after setting each first element 23 and each second element 24 to a closed configuration.

[0116] In particular, the control unit may be configured to move the first half shell 27 and the second half shell 28 along the displacement direction D in order to move the shell assembly 26 along the displacement direction D. This ensures that, during use, not only do the first element 23 and the second element 24 move along the displacement direction D, but each of the first half shells 27 and each of the second half shells 28 also move along the displacement direction D.

[0117] Referring particularly to Figures 3 to 6, each first element 23 and each second element 24 may have engaging surfaces 29 configured to engage with the tube 4 to at least partially form the first wall 7 of each package 2. Preferably, at least one of the engaging surfaces 29 may be inclined with respect to the central axis A.

[0118] Preferably, the web 3 may have multiple fold lines for bending the tube 4, defining at least partially the shape of the package 2. In particular, each first element 23 and each second element 24 may be designed according to the fold lines.

[0119] Furthermore, the fold lines are repeated sequentially according to a repeating pattern.

[0120] In particular, the fold lines define the desired positions of the first seal band 5 and the second seal band, respectively.

[0121] In some preferred, non-limiting embodiments, each fold line allows for the desired formation of a cross section 25 when controlling each first element 23 and each second element 24 along the direction of movement. In other words, when in use, each fold line guides the formation of each cross section 25 when the control unit controls the first element 23 and the second element 24 along the direction of movement.

[0122] During use, the packaging machine 1 produces packages 2 filled with a dispensable product.

[0123] In detail, the conveying device 11 advances the web 3 along the web conveying path P. The tube forming and sealing device 12 forms the tube 4 from the advancing web 3 and seals the tube 4 longitudinally. Furthermore, the filling device 13 fills the tube 4 with a pourable product, and the package forming device 10 forms the tube 4 at least partially, seals it laterally, and cuts it laterally to obtain the package 2.

[0124] More specifically, during the operation of the package forming apparatus 10, the operating device 20 manipulates the tube 4, preferably at least partially forming and / or preferably sealing the tube 4 laterally and cutting the tube 4.

[0125] While each operating device 20 is in operation, the first operating group 21 and the second operating group 22 periodically repeat the action of moving closer to and further away from each other.

[0126] Furthermore, the shell assembly 26 is periodically controlled between a standby configuration and an active configuration.

[0127] Furthermore, the first element 23 and the second element 24 are also periodically controlled between a closed configuration and an open configuration.

[0128] More specifically, each package 2 is formed through a series of steps. Furthermore, these steps are executed periodically and repeatedly to continuously form packages 2.

[0129] More specifically, in each cycle, a control step is performed in which each first element 23 and each second element 24 are controlled from an open configuration to a closed configuration, thereby compressing the tubes 4 laterally along the cross-section 25.

[0130] Furthermore, a movement step is performed, in which each first element 23 and each second element 24 are moved along the displacement direction D. In particular, the movement step is performed after each control step has been executed, with each first element 23 and each second element 24 held in a closed configuration.

[0131] Furthermore, a release step is performed, in which each first element 23 and each second element 24 are controlled to return to an open configuration.

[0132] More specifically, after the control step and before the movement step is performed, each cross section 25 may be in a position displaced laterally from the central axis A.

[0133] Alternatively, after the control step and before the movement step is performed, each cross-section 25 may be coaxial with the central axis A.

[0134] Additionally or alternatively, after the control step and the movement step, each cross section 25 is displaced laterally from the central axis A and / or maintains the displaced state.

[0135] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, a lateral sealing step is also performed, during which the first element 23 and the second element 24 cooperate with each other to seal the compressed section 25.

[0136] Furthermore, a step is performed to cut the compressed cross section 25 laterally, in which the cutting is preferably carried out by a cutting assembly. Advantageously, the moving step is performed before the cutting step is carried out.

[0137] According to some preferred, non-limiting embodiments, a setup step is performed, during which the shell assembly 26 is set to an operational configuration such that it forms at least partially the tube 4.

[0138] Furthermore, during the movement step, each shell assembly 26 is moved along the displacement direction D, and preferably, during the step of releasing the shell assembly 26, each shell assembly 26 is moved to a resting configuration.

[0139] More specifically, preferably, in the moving step, the first half shell 27 and the second half shell 28 are moved along the displacement direction D in order to move the shell assembly 26 along the displacement direction D.

[0140] Part of the formation cycle of package 2 is shown in Figures 3 to 6. Figure 3 shows two operating devices 20, one of which has the first element 23 and the second element 24 in a closed configuration, and the other which has the first element 23 and the second element 24 in an intermediate position between the open and closed configurations.

[0141] In Figure 3, it can be seen that the cross-section 25 formed when the first element 23 and the second element 24 are in a closed configuration is offset laterally from the central axis A. Alternatively, after the control step and before the execution of the movement step, each cross-section 25 may be coaxial with the central axis A.

[0142] Furthermore, the first element 23 and the second element 24 in the intermediate configuration begin to come into contact with the tube 4. In some possible embodiments, the first element 23 and the second element 24 may be arranged symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis A.

[0143] In Figure 3, it should be noted that the shell assembly 26 associated with the first element 23 and the second element 24, which are in the open configuration, is still controlled to the standby configuration.

[0144] Furthermore, in the sequence shown in Figures 4 to 6, each shell assembly 26 is controlled from a standby configuration to an operational configuration while the first element 23 and the second element 24 move from an open configuration to a closed configuration, and / or after the movement.

[0145] The sequence for controlling the first element 23 and the second element 24 from an open configuration to a closed configuration is shown in Figures 4 to 6.

[0146] In particular, each first element 23 and each second element 24 shown at the top of Figures 4 to 6 are moved closer to each other until they are ultimately controlled into a closed configuration (see Figure 6).

[0147] Furthermore, in Figures 5 and 6, it can be seen that the first element 23 and the second element 24 shown in the lower part of Figure 6 are moving together along the displacement direction D. On the other hand, the first element 23 and the second element 24 shown in the upper part of Figure 6 are not yet moving together along the displacement direction D. Nevertheless, each cross-section 25 formed between the first element 23 and the second element 24 shown in the upper part of Figure 6 is already displaced laterally from the central axis A.

[0148] Next, the cross-sections 25 of each first element 23 and each second element 24 shown at the bottom of Figure 6 are cut laterally.

[0149] Subsequently, each first element 23 and each second element 24 shown in the upper part of Figure 6 are moved laterally as a single unit along the displacement direction D.

[0150] Next, the cross-section 25 formed between the first element 23 and the second element 24 shown at the top of Figure 6 is cut laterally.

[0151] Referring to Figures 7 to 10, another embodiment of the packaging apparatus according to the present invention is shown. The following description of the embodiments in Figures 7 to 10 is limited to the differences from the embodiments in Figures 3 to 6, and the same or corresponding parts are used as far as possible.

[0152] In the embodiments shown in Figures 7 to 10, each shell assembly 26 can be controlled to an operating configuration before controlling the first element 23 and the second element 24 to a closed configuration.

[0153] In particular, in such a configuration, each shell assembly 26 can be controlled to an actuated configuration before moving the first element 23 and the second element 24 from an open configuration to a closed configuration.

[0154] Alternatively, the first element 23 and the second element 24 may begin moving from the open configuration to the closed configuration before each shell assembly 26 is ultimately controlled to the operating configuration. However, each shell assembly 26 reaches the operating configuration before the first element 23 and the second element 24 reach the closed configuration.

[0155] In Figure 7, it should be noted that the shell assembly 26, associated with the first element 23 and the second element 24, is in the open configuration and is already controlled to the operating configuration. The sequence for controlling the first element 23 and the second element 24 from the open configuration to the closed configuration is shown in Figures 8 to 10. This sequence is substantially identical to the sequence in Figures 4 to 6, the only difference being that the shell assembly 26 is already in the operating configuration.

[0156] Therefore, the packaging device 10 of the embodiment shown in Figures 7 to 10 operates similarly to the embodiment shown in Figures 3 to 6, but differs in that the shell assembly 26 is already controlled to the operating state before the first element 23 and the second element 24 are controlled to the closed state.

[0157] The advantages of the package forming apparatus 10 and / or packaging machine 1 of the present invention are clear from the above description.

[0158] In particular, avoiding the tilt of tube 4 ensures a smooth manufacturing process for package 2.

[0159] Furthermore, it becomes possible to easily control the package formation process.

[0160] Modifications may be made to the package forming apparatus 10 and / or packaging machine 1 described herein, but not in any way that would deviate from the scope of protection as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A package forming device (10) for a packaging machine (1), wherein the package forming device (10) is configured to operate a tube (4) extending along a central axis (A) to form a package (2) from the tube (4), The package forming apparatus (10) comprises at least one actuator (20) configured to form the tube (4) at least partially, the at least one actuator (20) comprising a first element (23) and a second element (24) configured to compress the tube (4) at least laterally along its cross section (25), The first element (23) and the second element (24) are controllable between an open configuration in which the first element (23) and the second element (24) are spaced apart from each other, and a closed configuration in which the first element (23) and the second element (24) compress the tube (4) laterally along the cross section (25). The package forming apparatus (10) includes a control unit configured to selectively control the first element (23) and the second element (24) between the open configuration and the closed configuration. The control unit moves the first element (23) and the second element (24) independently and / or differently from each other between the open configuration and the closed configuration, and / or the control unit moves the first element (23) and the second element (24) independently and / or differently from each other linearly between the open configuration and the closed configuration. The control unit is configured to move the first element (23) and the second element (24) along a displacement direction (D) perpendicular to the central axis (A) while maintaining the first element (23) and the second element (24) in the closed configuration. Package forming apparatus.

2. The first element (23) and the second element (24) are configured such that, after being controlled to the closed configuration, the cross section (25) moves laterally with respect to the central axis (A) or becomes coaxial with the central axis (A) before moving along the displacement direction (D), and / or The first element (23) and the second element (24) are configured such that, after being controlled to the closed configuration, they move along the displacement direction (D) and then maintain a state in which the cross section (25) is displaced laterally from the central axis (A), or maintain a state in which it is displaced laterally. The package forming apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The first element (23) and the second element (24) are configured to cooperate with each other to seal the tube (4) laterally along the cross section (25). The package forming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The operating device (20) includes a cutting assembly configured to cut the tube (4) laterally along the cross section (25), The control unit is configured to move the first element (23) and the second element (24) along the displacement direction (D) after being controlled to the closed configuration and before the cutting operation is performed by the cutting assembly. A package forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The actuation device (20) comprises a shell assembly (26) that is controllable between an actuation configuration configured to at least partially form the tube (4) and a standby configuration configured to be separated from the tube (4), The control unit is configured to control the shell assembly (26) between the operating configuration and the standby configuration. The control unit is configured to move the shell assembly (26), the first element (23), and the second element (24) along the displacement direction (D). A package forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The shell assembly (26) comprises a first half shell (27) and a second half shell (28) arranged to be close to and far apart from each other, and the shell assembly (26) is controlled to the operating configuration and the standby configuration. The first element (23) is connected to the first half shell (27), and the second element (24) is connected to the second half shell (28), The control unit is configured to move the first half shell (27) and the second half shell (28) along the displacement direction (D) in order to move the shell assembly (26) along the movement direction (D). A package forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The first element (23) and the second element (24) each have engaging surfaces (29) configured to engage with the tube (4) to form a lateral wall (7) of the package (2), At least one of the engagement surfaces (29) is inclined with respect to the central axis (A), The package forming apparatus according to claim 6.

8. A packaging machine (1) for forming a package (2) from a web (3) of packaging material, which is a product that can be dispensed from a forward-moving tube (4) that is sealed in the longitudinal direction, The aforementioned packaging machine (1) A conveying device (11) is configured to advance the web (3) of the packaging material along the web advance path (P) and advance the tube (4) along the tube advance path (Q), A tube forming and sealing device (12) is configured to form the tube (4) from the web (3) of the packaging material and to seal the tube (4) in the longitudinal direction. A filling device (13) for filling the tube (4) with a product that can be dispensed, A package forming apparatus (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, which forms the package (2) from the tube (4), A packaging machine (1) equipped with the following:

9. A method for forming a package (2) from a tube (4) extending along a central axis (A), wherein at least, The steps include controlling the first element (23) and the second element (24) from an open configuration in which the first element (23) and the second element (24) are spaced apart from each other to a closed configuration in which the first element (23) and the second element (24) compress the tube (4) laterally along the cross section (25), The first element (23) and the second element (24) are moved in a direction perpendicular to the central axis (A) after controlling the first element (23) and the second element (24) to a closed configuration and while maintaining the first element (23) and the second element (24) in a closed configuration. A method that includes [a certain feature].

10. After the control step and before the moving step, the cross section (25) is displaced laterally from the central axis (A), or becomes coaxial with the central axis (A), and / or After the control step and the movement step, the cross section (25) maintains a state of being displaced laterally from the central axis (A). The method according to claim 9.

11. The first element (23) and the second element (24) cooperate to seal the cross section (25) in the lateral direction, The method according to claim 9 or 10.

12. The step includes cutting the cross section (25) in the transverse direction, The moving step is performed before the cutting step. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 11.

13. The process includes the step of configuring the shell assembly (26) to be operable so as to form at least partially the tube (4), In the moving step, the shell assembly (26) is moved along the direction of movement (D). The method according to any one of claims 9 to 12.

14. The shell assembly (26) comprises a first half-shell (27) and a second half-shell (28) that are close to each other, and the shell assembly (26) is controlled by an operating configuration. The first element (23) is connected to the first half shell (27), and the second element (24) is connected to the second half shell (28). In the moving step, the first half shell (27) and the second half shell (28) are moved along the displacement direction (D) in order to move the shell assembly (26) along the displacement direction (D). The method according to any one of claims 9 to 13.

15. The first element (23) and the second element (24) are provided with engaging surfaces (29) configured to engage with the tube (4) to form the lateral wall (7) of the package (2), At least one of the engagement surfaces (29) is inclined with respect to the central axis (A), The method according to any one of claims 9 to 14.

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