Packaging machine that forms multiple sealed packages filled with fluid products

Abstract

The packaging machine (1) is a device for forming multiple sealed packages (2), and comprises a conveying device (5) for conveying a web (4) of packaging material, an isolation chamber (10), a tube forming device (13) for forming a tube (3) from the web (4) of packaging material, a sealing device, a filling device (15), a package forming unit (16) configured to form a package (2) from the advancing tube (3) and seal it laterally, a tension adjustment device (32), and a control unit (17) configured to control the conveying device (5) and / or the tension adjustment device (32) and / or the package forming unit (16) and to change the forward speed of the tube (3).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a packaging machine for manufacturing sealed packages filled with fluid products, particularly fluid foods.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing sealed packages filled with fluid products, particularly fluid foods.

Background Art

[0003] Many liquid or fluid foods such as fruit juice, UHT (ultra-high temperature treated) milk, wine, tomato sauce, etc. are sold in packages made from sterilized packaging materials.

[0004] As a typical example, Tetra Brik Aseptic (registered trademark), a parallelepiped-shaped packaging material for liquid foods, can be mentioned. This is manufactured by sealing and folding a laminated strip-shaped packaging material. This packaging material has a multilayer structure in which a base material layer such as paper is covered with layers of a heat-sealable plastic material (e.g., polyethylene) on both sides. For example, in the case of aseptic packaging for long-term storage of UHT milk, etc., the packaging material includes an oxygen barrier layer (e.g., aluminum foil), the oxygen barrier layer is overlaid on a layer of a heat-sealable plastic material, and further covered with another layer of a heat-sealable plastic material on top, finally forming the inner surface of the package that comes into contact with the food.

[0005] Such packaging is usually manufactured by a fully automatic packaging machine that passes a web of the packaging material through a sterilization device for sterilization and holds and conveys the sterilized web in an isolation chamber (closed aseptic environment) maintained in a sterilized state. When the web of the packaging material passes through the isolation chamber, the web is folded longitudinally and sealed into a tube having a longitudinal joint at a tube forming station, and then further supplied vertically.

[0006] To complete the molding process, the tubes are filled with a sterile or sterile-treated fluid product, particularly a fluid food, and are laterally sealed along equally spaced cross-sections while moving vertically in the package forming unit within the packaging machine, and then cut.

[0007] Pillow packages are formed within the packaging machine, and each pillow package has a longitudinal seal, a transverse seal at the top, and a transverse seal at the bottom.

[0008] A typical packaging machine comprises a conveying device that advances a web of packaging material along a web advance path; a tube forming device that forms a tube from the web along a tube advance path; a sterilization device that sterilizes the web of packaging material before forming it into a tube; a tube forming and sealing device, at least partially located in an isolation chamber, that forms a tube from the advancing web of packaging material and seals the tube longitudinally; a filling device that fills the tube with a fluid product; and a package forming unit that forms individual packages from the packaging material of the tube, seals them laterally, and cuts them.

[0009] A typical packaging machine also includes a tension adjustment device to control the tension of the tube, i.e., the packaging material that forms the tube. In particular, it is known that the tension adjustment device is placed between the sterilization station and the tube forming station to control the tension of the tube. Examples of packaging machines equipped with a tension adjustment device are disclosed in European Patent Application EP3725692B1 and European Patent Application EP3725689B1, filed in the name of the present applicant.

[0010] To accurately form individual packages, the water pressure provided by the fluid product within the tube must be sufficiently high; otherwise, irregularly shaped packages will be obtained. Typically, the column of fluid product within the tube that provides the required water pressure extends at least 500 mm above the hit position (i.e., the position where the forming, sealing, and cutting assembly begins to contact the advancing tube). As an alternative, the present applicant's European patent application EP3456638B1 proposes providing a pressurizing assembly that guides a flow of sterilizing gas into the tube during use, thereby adjusting the gas pressure within the tube to the appropriate forming pressure. This reduces the required water pressure provided by the product column.

[0011] Known packaging machines operate according to the "fixed time" principle. That is, once the packaging machine is started, the packaging material and / or tube are accelerated from an initial speed (e.g., 0 m / s) to a target speed within a predetermined period of time (to reach the target content volume). Since the target speed may depend on the format (size and / or shape) of the package being formed, the packaging machine may operate at a first target speed or a second target speed different from the first, depending on the package format. However, in known machines, the time it takes for the machine to accelerate from the initial speed to the target speed is constant, regardless of the value of the target speed required to reach the target content volume. Therefore, the value of the acceleration required to reach the target speed changes depending on the value of the target speed. This behavior results in various accelerations, and consequently, the stress acting on the components fluctuates during the transition phase (especially since the acceleration changes depending on the package format). [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0012] The operation of this machine needs improvement. In particular, the lifespan of its parts needs to be extended.

[0013] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a packaging machine that overcomes at least one of the drawbacks described above. Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing a sealed package that overcomes at least one of the drawbacks described above. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] These objectives are fully achieved by the packaging machine and method for manufacturing a sealed package according to one or more of the attached claims.

[0015] Two non-limiting embodiments of the present invention will be described illustratively with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0016] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of the packaging machine according to the present invention, with some parts omitted for clarity. [Figure 2] This is a magnified view of the details of the packaging device shown in Figure 1, with some parts omitted for clarity. [Figure 3] This diagram schematically illustrates the operation of a machine in the transient phase in the prior art. Specifically, the vertical axis represents the forward speed of the web and / or tube of the packaging material, and the horizontal axis represents time. [Figure 4] This diagram schematically shows the operation of the machine according to the present invention during a transient phase, in which the vertical axis represents the forward speed of the web and / or tube of the packaging material, and the horizontal axis represents time. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0017] Number 1 shows the entire packaging machine that produces sealed packages 2 of fluid foods such as pasteurized milk and fruit juice from tubes 3 of packaging material web 4. In particular, when in use, tubes 3 extend along their longitudinal axis and have a particular vertical orientation.

[0018] The web 4 of the packaging material has a multi-layer structure, with a fibrous material (usually paper) layer covered on both sides by a layer of heat-sealable plastic material (e.g., polyethylene).

[0019] Preferably, the web 4 further includes a gas and light barrier layer (e.g., aluminum foil or ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) film), and at least a first heat-sealable plastic material layer and a second heat-sealable plastic material layer. The gas and light barrier layer is laid on top of the first heat-sealable plastic material layer and further covered by the second heat-sealable plastic material layer. The second heat-sealable plastic material layer forms the inner surface of the package 2 that finally contacts the food product.

[0020] A typical package 2 manufactured by the packaging device 1 includes a sealed longitudinal seal and a pair of transverse seals 66, particularly a pair of upper transverse seals 66 and lower transverse seals 66 (i.e., one seal 66 at the upper part of the package 2 and another seal 66 at the lower part of the package 2).

[0021] In FIG. 1, the packaging machine 1 includes a conveying device 5 that advances the web 4 from a supply station to a forming station 9 along a web advancing path P in a known manner. At the forming station 9, the web 4 is formed into a tube 3 during use. The conveying device 5 is configured to advance the tube 3 along a tube advancing path Q.

[0022] The packaging machine 1 includes an isolation chamber 10 having an internal environment 11, particularly a sterilized internal environment 11. The internal environment 11 is filled with a sterilizing gas, particularly sterilized air, and is separated from the external environment 12.

[0023] The packaging machine 1 includes a tube forming device 13 that extends along a longitudinal axis and is particularly arranged in a vertical direction. Particularly at the forming station 9, at least part, preferably the whole, is arranged within the isolation chamber 10 and is configured to form a tube 3 from the advancing web 4 during use.

[0024] The packaging machine 1 includes a sealing device that is at least partially disposed within the isolation chamber 10 and is configured to seal the tube 3 formed by the tube forming device 13 in the longitudinal direction.

[0025] Preferably, the tube forming device 13 is configured to gradually fold the web 4 into the tube 3, and particularly forms a longitudinal joint of the tube 3 by overlapping the first end and the second end with each other. In particular, this longitudinal joint is sealed by the operation of the sealing device during use.

[0026] Preferably, the conveying device 5 is configured to convey the tube 3 and the intermediate body of the tube 3 along the tube forward path Q, and particularly conveys from the forming station 9 to the package forming unit 16. In particular, the "intermediate body of the tube 3" refers to any configuration of the web 4 before obtaining the tube structure, including the state after the folding of the web 4 by the tube forming device 13 is started. In other words, the intermediate part of the tube 3 is formed during the process of gradually folding the web 4 to obtain the tube 3, and is particularly formed by overlapping the first edge of the web 4 and the second edge on the opposite side of the first edge with each other.

[0027] Preferably, the tube forming device 13 includes at least two forming ring assemblies 22, which are particularly disposed within the isolation chamber 10 (particularly the internal environment 11), cooperate with each other, and are configured to gradually fold the web 4 into the tube 3, and particularly overlap the ends with each other to form a longitudinal joint. In the specific example shown in the figure, the first forming ring assembly 22 is disposed downstream of the second forming ring assembly 22 along the path Q. In particular, the first and second forming ring assemblies 22 are spaced apart from each other and disposed parallel to each other. Further, the first and second forming ring assemblies 22 are coaxially disposed with each other and define the longitudinal axis of the tube forming device 13.

[0028] Preferably, the sealing device includes a sealing head 21 that interacts with the tube 3 to seal the tube 3 longitudinally, and in particular the longitudinal joint. In particular, the sealing head 21 is configured to heat the tube 3, especially along the joint. The sealing head 21 is of the type that operates by induction heating, hot air, ultrasound, or other means.

[0029] Preferably, the sealing device includes a pressurizing assembly configured to apply mechanical force to the tube 3, particularly to the substantially overlapping ends of the tube 3, thereby adequately sealing the tube 3 along the joint. Specifically, the pressurizing assembly includes an interaction roller and a counter-interaction roller configured to apply mechanical force from the opposite side of the joint. During use, the joint is positioned between the interaction roller and the counter-interaction roller. Preferably, the interaction roller is supported by a forming ring assembly 22.

[0030] The packaging machine 1 is equipped with a filling device 15 that continuously fills tubes 3 with a fluid product.

[0031] In Figures 1 and 2, the filling device 15 includes a filling pipe 27, which is fluidly connected to a fluid product storage tank for storing / supplying the fluid product to be packaged.

[0032] In particular, the filling pipe 27 is configured to guide the fluid product into the tube 3 during use. Preferably, at least a portion of the filling pipe 27 is positioned inside the tube 3 during use and is configured to continuously supply the fluid product to the tube 3. Specifically, the filling pipe 27 includes a linear main pipe section 28 that extends into the tube 3.

[0033] More specifically, the main pipe section 28 comprises an upper section 29 and a lower section 30 that are connected to each other (preferably detachable). In detail, the lower section 30 has an outlet opening for supplying a fluid product to the tube 3 when in use.

[0034] The packaging machine 1 includes a package forming unit 16 that, when in use, shapes, seals laterally, and cuts a forward-moving tube 3 to form a package 2. In particular, the package forming unit 16 is positioned along the path Q, downstream of the isolation chamber 10, the tube forming device 13, and the sealing device.

[0035] In Figure 2, the package forming unit 16 is - Multiple actuating assemblies 61 (only one is shown) and multiple counter actuating assemblies 62 (only one is shown); and - A track (not shown) is configured to move the actuation assembly 61 and the counter actuation assembly 62 along a transport path, in particular, the actuation assembly 61 and the counter actuation assembly 62 move periodically along the transport path. Furthermore, the actuation assembly 61 and the counter actuation assembly 62 are movable along the track independently of each other. It is equipped with.

[0036] More specifically, the actuation assembly 61 is configured to cooperate with the counter actuation assembly 62 to form the package 2 from the tube 3 when in use. In particular, the actuation assembly 61 and the counter actuation assembly 62 are configured to shape, laterally seal, and preferably laterally cut the tube 3 to form the package 2.

[0037] More specifically, the actuation assembly 61 and the counter actuation assembly 62 are configured to cooperate with each other to form the package 2 from the tube 3 as they advance along the actuation portion of the transport path. In particular, while advancing along the transport path, the actuation assembly 61 and the counter actuation assembly 62 advance parallel to and in the same direction as the tube 3.

[0038] More specifically, the actuation assembly 61 and the counter actuation assembly 62 are configured to contact the tube 3 as they advance along the actuation portion of the transport path. In particular, the actuation assembly 61 and the counter actuation assembly 62 are configured to always initiate contact with the tube 3 at a fixed position.

[0039] Furthermore, the actuation assembly 61 and the counter actuation assembly 62 are - Half shell 63 configured to contact tube 3 and define at least part of the shape of package 2; - Either a sealing element 64 or a counter-sealing element 65 configured to laterally seal the tube 3 between adjacent packages 2 and form a laterally sealed portion 66; and - Either a cutting element (not shown, known) or a counter-cutting element (not shown, known), configured to cut the tube 3 laterally between adjacent packages 2, and in particular between the sealing portions 66, It is equipped with.

[0040] In particular, each half-shell 63 is configured to be controlled between a working position and a resting position by a drive assembly. Specifically, when in use, the half-shell 63 moves along the actuation mechanism and is controlled to the working position together with the actuation assembly 61 or the counter actuation assembly 62.

[0041] It should be noted that the sealing element 64 and the counter sealing element 65 are of the type that operate by induction heating, hot air, ultrasound, or other means.

[0042] In preferred, non-limiting embodiments, the package forming unit 16 is any of the forms described in European Patent Application EP3254980A1 and European Patent Application EP3476751A1. It is expressly understood that the functional and structural features of the forming assemblies described in European Patent Application EP3254980A1 and European Patent Application EP3476751A1 are applicable to the package forming unit 16 described herein.

[0043] In Figures 1 and 2, the isolation chamber 10 includes a housing 14 (circularly shown) that separates the internal environment 11 from the external environment 12. In particular, the internal environment 11 contains a sterilization gas (especially sterilization air) under a specific pressure. Preferably, the specific pressure is slightly higher than the ambient pressure to reduce the risk of contaminants entering the internal environment 11. In particular, the specific pressure is about 100 Pa to 500 Pa (0.001 Bar to 0.005 Bar) higher than the ambient pressure.

[0044] Preferably, the packaging device 1 includes means (not shown, known means) for supplying a sterilization gas (especially sterilization air) to the isolation chamber 10 (especially the internal environment 11).

[0045] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, particularly with reference to Figure 2, the packaging device 1 is: - A partitioning element 40 that is placed inside the tube 3 when in use and is designed to divide the tube 3 into a first space 41 and a second space 42; and - A pressurizing device 43 is configured to continuously guide sterilization gas into the second space 42 during use, such that the gas pressure in the second space 42 becomes higher than the gas pressure in the first space 41. It is equipped with.

[0046] More specifically, the first space 41 is partitioned by the tube 3, particularly the sides of the tube 3, and by the partitioning element 40. Furthermore, the first space 41 is open to the internal environment 11. More specifically, the partitioning element 40 partitions the first space 41 in its downstream portion, particularly at the bottom.

[0047] More specifically, the second space 42 is partitioned during use by the tube 3, particularly the sides of the tube 3, the partitioning element 40, and the lateral sealing portion 66.

[0048] More specifically, the first space 41 is located upstream of the second space 42 along the forward path Q of the tube. More specifically, the first space 41 is located upstream of the delimiter element 40 along the forward path Q. In the specific example shown, the second space 42 is located below the first space 41.

[0049] In particular, as will become clear from the following explanation, the second space 42 defines a high-pressure region within the tube 3, and the first space 41 defines a low-pressure region within the tube 3.

[0050] In the context of this application, the high-pressure region (i.e., the second space 42) is understood to have an internal pressure in the range of approximately 5 kPa to 40 kPa (0.05 Bar to 0.4 Bar) above the ambient pressure, and particularly approximately 10 kPa to 30 kPa (0.10 Bar to 0.30 Bar). In other words, the second space 42 is in an overpressurized state.

[0051] The low-pressure region (i.e., the first space 41) means a pressure slightly higher than the ambient pressure. In particular, a pressure slightly higher than the ambient pressure refers to a pressure within the range of 100 Pa to 500 Pa (0.001 Bar to 0.005 Bar) from the ambient pressure.

[0052] More specifically, the first space 41 is (directly) fluidly connected to the internal environment 11. Therefore, the sterilization gas present in the first space 41 can flow into the internal environment 11.

[0053] In particular, at least a portion of tube 3 (and its intermediates) is placed inside the isolation chamber 10 (especially within the internal environment 11).

[0054] Preferably, the pressure in the first space 41 is (substantially) equal to the given pressure in the isolation chamber 10 (particularly the internal environment 11). Preferably, the pressure in the first space 41 is in the range of 100 Pa to 500 Pa (0.001 Bar to 0.005 Bar) higher than the ambient pressure.

[0055] The filling device 15, particularly the filling pipe 27, is configured to guide the fluid product into the second space 42. Therefore, during use, the second space 42 contains the fluid product and pressurized sterilization gas. The pressurized sterilization gas provides the water pressure necessary for the precise molding of the package 2 (i.e., the sterilization gas substitutes for the action of a column of the fluid product within the tube 3).

[0056] Advantageously, the partitioning element 40 is designed to provide at least one fluid channel 44 (particularly having an annular shape) during use, thereby fluidly connecting the second space 42 and the first space 41, and allowing the leakage of sterilization gas from the second space 42 to the first space 41 during use. In particular, during use, the sterilization gas leaks from the second space 42 (high-pressure region) to the first space 41 (low-pressure region) through the fluid channel 44. By providing the fluid channel 44, it becomes possible to control the gas pressure in the second space 42 with greater precision. Preferably, the partitioning element 40 is designed so that during use, the fluid channel 44 is formed by the gap between the inner surface of the tube 3 and the partitioning element 40, particularly the peripheral portion 45 of the partitioning element 40.

[0057] In particular, the pressurizing device 43 is configured to supply sterilization gas at a flow rate of approximately 10 to 200 Nm3 / h, especially 20 to 180 Nm3 / h, and even more specifically, approximately 25 to 150 Nm3 / h.

[0058] Preferably, the pressurizing device 43 is configured to change the flow rate of sterilization gas in accordance with the flow rate of sterilization gas flowing from the second space 42 to the first space 41, particularly through at least the fluid channel 44.

[0059] Preferably, the pressurizing device 43 is configured to control the gas pressure in the second space 42 to a range higher than the ambient pressure, specifically 5 kPa to 40 kPa (0.05 Bar to 0.40 Bar), and particularly 10 kPa to 30 kPa (0.1 Bar to 0.3 Bar).

[0060] Advantageously, the pressurizing device 43 is designed to provide a closed sterilization gas circuit from the internal environment 11 to the second space 42 and back to the internal environment 11. More specifically, the pressurizing device 43 is configured to draw sterilization gas from the internal environment 11, pressurize (compress) the sterilization gas, and guide the pressurized (compressed) sterilization gas to the second space 42.

[0061] Preferably, the pressurizing device 43 includes a pump device 46 configured to draw sterilization gas from the internal environment 11, pressurize (compress) the sterilization gas, and guide the pressurized sterilization gas to the second space 42. Preferably, the pump device 46 is a rotating machine, and more specifically, a compressor.

[0062] The packaging machine 1 includes a control unit 17 that controls the operation of the packaging machine 1.

[0063] Preferably, the control unit 17 is configured to control the operating parameters of the pump device 46, particularly the operating parameters of the compressor. As will be described later, the control unit 17 is configured to control the operating parameters of the pump device 46 according to at least one of the forward speed of the web 4 or the forward speed of the tube 3 (both forward speeds are equal) or the type or shape of the package 2 that is formed or the volume of the package 2 that is formed.

[0064] Preferably, the rotating machinery, in particular the compressor, is configured to operate at a rotational speed in the range of 10,000 to 100,000 rpm, particularly 20,000 to 80,000 rpm, and even more particularly 30,000 to 60,000 rpm.

[0065] In the specific examples disclosed, the control unit 17 is adapted to control the rotational speed of a rotating machine, in particular a compressor, as a function of at least one of the forward speed of the web 4 or the forward speed of the tube 3 or the form of the package 2 to be formed or the volume of the package 2 to be formed.

[0066] Preferably, the rotating machinery, in particular the compressor, is configured such that the pressure supplied increases with increasing rotational speed.

[0067] Preferably, the rotating machinery, particularly the compressor, is configured to maintain a nearly constant gas pressure in the second space 42, thereby allowing the flow rate of the sterilization gas to be varied in accordance with the flow rate of gas from the second space 42 to the first space 41 (through the fluid channel 44).

[0068] Preferably, the pressurizing device 43 includes a gas supply pipe 48 that connects the internal environment 11 and the second space 42 at least indirectly via a fluidic connection and guides sterilization gas from the internal environment 11 to the second space 42. In particular, the gas supply pipe 48 is directly and fluidly connected to the second space 42. Preferably, the gas supply pipe 48 is connected at least indirectly to the pump device 46, particularly to the compressor.

[0069] More specifically, the gas supply pipe 48 includes at least a main body 49 that extends inside the tube 3 when in use. In particular, the main body 49 extends parallel to the main pipe section 28. More specifically, at least the main body 49 and the main pipe section 28 are coaxial with each other.

[0070] In the specific example shown, the filling pipe 27 extends at least partially into the gas supply pipe 48. Alternatively, the gas supply pipe 48 may extend at least partially into the filling pipe 27.

[0071] More specifically, at least a portion of the main pipe section 28 of the filling pipe extends within the main body section 49 of the gas supply pipe.

[0072] In particular, the diameter of the cross-section of the main pipe section 28 of the filling pipe is smaller than the diameter of the cross-section of the main body section 49 of the gas supply pipe.

[0073] Preferably, the gas supply pipe 48 and the filling pipe 27 define / partition an annular conduit 50 for sterilization gas supplied to the second space 42. In particular, the annular conduit 50 is partitioned by the inner surface of the gas supply pipe 48 and the outer surface of the filling pipe 27.

[0074] In other words, during use, the sterilization gas is introduced into the second space 42 through the annular conduit 50.

[0075] The pressurizing device 43 is - Pumping device 46, in particular a rotating machine, more specifically a compressor, and a first gas conduit 51 directly fluid-connected to a gas supply pipe 48; and - The internal environment 11 and the pump device 46, in particular the rotating machinery, more specifically the compressor and the second gas conduit 52 which is directly fluid-connected. It is equipped with.

[0076] Therefore, during use, sterilization gas is drawn from the internal environment 11 through the gas conduit 52, pressurized (compressed) by the pump device 46, and then guided into the second space 42 through the gas conduit 51 and gas supply pipe 48.

[0077] Preferably, the separator element 40 is detachably connected to at least a portion of the filling pipe 27 and / or the gas supply pipe 48. In particular, the separator element 40 is connected to at least a portion of the filling pipe 27 and / or the gas supply pipe 48 in a floating manner (i.e., with play). In particular, floating means that the separator element 40 is configured to move (slightly) parallel to the forward path Q of the tube. That is, the separator element 40 is configured to move (slightly) parallel to the tube 3 as it moves along the forward path Q during use.

[0078] In Figure 1, the packaging machine 1 includes a tension adjustment device 32 for controlling the tension of the tube 3. In particular, the tension of the tube 3 is controlled depending on the periodic forward speed of the web 4 and / or the tube 3, and / or the operation of the package forming unit 11.

[0079] In particular, the tension adjustment device 32 is positioned upstream of the tube forming device 13 along the web's forward path P and is configured to control the tension of the tube 3. Specifically, it is configured to control the tension in the portion of the web 4 between the tension adjustment device 32 and the tube forming device 13. Furthermore, the tension adjustment device 32 is positioned upstream of the tube forming device 13 and downstream of the sterilization station and / or sterilizer.

[0080] Advantageously, the control unit 17 is configured to control the operation of the tension adjustment device 32.

[0081] In Figure 1, the tension adjustment device 32 is - Main drive roller 33 that can rotate around the main rotation axis; and - A main drive motor (especially a servo motor) connected to the main drive roller 33 and configured to drive the rotation of the main drive roller 33 around the main rotation axis, It is equipped with.

[0082] In a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the tension adjustment device 32 further includes: - Auxiliary drive roller 35 that can rotate around an auxiliary rotation axis; and - Connected to the auxiliary drive roller 35 and configured to drive and / or control the rotation of the auxiliary drive roller 35 around the auxiliary rotation axis, the auxiliary drive motor (especially the auxiliary servo motor) It is equipped with.

[0083] In a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the auxiliary drive roller 35 and the main drive roller 33 are spaced apart from each other along the web forward path P, and in particular, the auxiliary drive roller 35 is positioned upstream of the main drive roller 33.

[0084] In a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the tension adjustment device 32 further includes: - A main counter roller 36 that is rotatable about a central axis and is adjacent to the main drive roller 33, particularly adjacent in the circumferential direction, and even more particularly in the tangential direction; and - Rotatable about a central axis, adjacent to the auxiliary drive roller 35, particularly adjacent in the circumferential direction, and even more particularly, arranged tangentially, the auxiliary counter roller 37 It is equipped with.

[0085] In a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, depending on the relative arrangement of the auxiliary drive roller 35 and the main drive roller 33, the auxiliary counter roller 37 is positioned upstream of the main counter roller 36 along the web forward path P.

[0086] In particular, during use, the web 4 is interposed between the main counter roller 36 and the main drive roller 33, especially between the auxiliary counter roller 37 and the auxiliary drive roller 35, and / or moves forward.

[0087] Advantageously, the control unit 17 is configured to control the main drive motor, thereby periodically changing the angular velocity of the main drive roller 33 to control the tension of the tube 3, and in particular the tension of the portion of the web 4 between the main drive roller 33 and the tube forming device 13.

[0088] In particular, in the context of this specification, the term “periodically changing” means that the angular velocity and / or angular acceleration of the main drive roller 33 follows a time-dependent velocity profile and / or time-dependent acceleration profile that repeats according to a specified and / or determined and / or given frequency.

[0089] In other words, the control unit 17 is configured to control the main drive motor, thereby causing the angular velocity and / or angular acceleration of the main drive roller 33 to change periodically according to a time-dependent velocity profile and / or acceleration profile, and to repeat according to a defined operating frequency. In particular, the time-dependent velocity profile is defined according to the manufacturing cycle of the package 2 and / or the operating cycle of the package forming unit 16.

[0090] In particular, since the force acting on the tube 3 during the formation of package 2 is periodic, it is advantageous to control the angular velocity and / or angular acceleration around the rotation axis (and main drive motor) of the main drive roller 33 according to a periodic velocity profile and / or acceleration profile.

[0091] In a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the control unit 17 is configured to change and / or control the angular velocity and / or angular acceleration of the main drive roller 33 as a function of the operation of the package forming unit 11 and / or the package forming cycle and / or the force acting on the tube 3 and / or the operation of the filling device 15 and the filling of the tube 3.

[0092] In particular, the package formation cycle is substantially determined by the interaction between the actuation assembly 61 and the counter actuation assembly 62, especially the half shell 63, the sealing element 64 and the counter sealing element 65, and the tube 3.

[0093] The operation of the package forming unit 16 (and the interaction between the actuation assembly 61, the counteracting assembly 62, and the tube 3) determines the periodic forward velocity of the web 4 (particularly the portion of the web 4 downstream of the tensioning device 32) and / or the tube 3. In particular, the periodic forward velocity profile is such that the forward velocity of the web 4 and / or the tube 3 repeatedly occurs according to a specified frequency during the formation of one package 2.

[0094] In a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the control unit 17 is configured to control the auxiliary drive motor and the main drive motor, and the free loop 38 of the web 4 expands and / or advances between the auxiliary drive roller 35 and the main drive roller 33 when in use.

[0095] In the present invention, the free loop 38 indicates that the portion of the web 4 that extends and / or advances between the auxiliary drive roller 35 and the main drive roller 33 is not subjected to any tension, and the portion of the web 4 that defines and / or forms the free loop 38 is not subjected to tension and / or tension. In other words, the free loop 38 is a tension-free portion of the web 4.

[0096] While not mandatory, preferably, the control unit 17 is configured to control the auxiliary drive motor, and the angular velocity of the auxiliary drive roller 35 is set to maintain and / or control the free loop 38 that expands and / or moves forward, particularly between the auxiliary drive roller 35 and the main drive roller 33.

[0097] In particular, during use, the angular velocity of the auxiliary drive roller 35 substantially controls the extension of the free loop 38, and the angular velocity of the main drive roller 33 substantially controls the tension of the tube 3.

[0098] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the packaging machine 1 further comprises a sterilizer for sterilizing at least a portion of the web 4, preferably at least the first surface, more preferably the first and second surfaces, in particular, in a sterilization station. Preferably, the sterilization station is located upstream of the tube forming station along the web's forward path P. Preferably, the sterilization station is fluidly connected to the isolation chamber 10.

[0099] In particular, the irradiation device comprises at least a first irradiation emitter, in particular a first electron beam irradiation emitter, and is configured to irradiate the first surface of the web 4 of the packaging material with sterilization irradiation, in particular electromagnetic wave irradiation, and more particularly electron beam irradiation. Preferably, the irradiation device further comprises a second irradiation emitter, in particular a second electron beam irradiation emitter. This second irradiation emitter is configured, when in use, to irradiate the second surface of the web 4 of the packaging material with sterilization irradiation, in particular electromagnetic wave irradiation, and more specifically electron beam irradiation.

[0100] Preferably, the irradiation device is of the type described in European Patent Application EP3549878A1 and European Patent Application EP3549613A1, both filed in the name of the present applicant. It is expressly understood that all functional and structural features of the apparatus described in European Patent Application EP3549878A1 and European Patent Application EP3549613A1 are applicable to the irradiation device of the machine described herein.

[0101] In a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the packaging machine 1 further comprises a folding unit that receives packages 2 formed and sealed from a package forming unit 16 and produces folded packages.

[0102] The package 2 (a so-called "pillow package") manufactured by the package forming unit 16 comprises a main body and a first end and a second end located on opposite sides of the main body. The first end comprises a first fin projecting laterally from the main body and a pair of first flaps projecting laterally from the first fin. The second end comprises a second fin projecting laterally from the main body and a pair of second flaps projecting laterally from the second fin. In particular, the first fin has a rectangular shape and projects from the upper lateral sealing portion 66, and the second fin has a rectangular shape and projects from the lower lateral sealing portion 66. The first end tapers from the main body toward the first fin, and the second end tapers from the main body toward the second fin. The first flap has a substantially triangular shape and projects from the opposite side of the first end, and the second flap has a substantially triangular shape and projects from the opposite side of the second end.

[0103] The folding unit is, in effect, - An endless conveyor for continuously supplying package 2 along a folding path from the supply station to the discharge station. - A first folding means that periodically works in conjunction with each package 2 to perform folding operations, particularly flattening the first end, folding the first fin towards the first end, and bending the first flap toward the main body towards the second end. - In conjunction with each package 2 periodically, further folding operations, especially flattening the second end, folding the second fin to the second end, folding the second flap to the second fin, second folding means, It is equipped with.

[0104] Preferably, the folding unit further includes a heating device, in particular, configured to act on the bent first and second flaps to melt the outer layer of the packaging material and seal the flaps before they are pressed against the main body and the second fin, respectively.

[0105] Preferably, the folding unit further comprises a pressing device in cooperation with package 2 to hold the flap against the flattened fin while the flap is cooled. The heating device is positioned along the folding path, particularly between the folding means and the pressing device.

[0106] In particular, the heating device comprises an assembly air device, a pair of first nozzles connected to the assembly air device and configured to blow hot air onto a first flap of the package before the package reaches the pressing device, and a pair of second nozzles connected to the assembly air device and configured to blow hot air onto a second flap of the package.

[0107] Preferably, the folding unit is of the type described in European Patent Application EP3549613A1, filed in the name of the present applicant. It is expressly understood that all functional and structural features of the apparatus described in European Patent Application EPP3549613A1 are applicable to the folding unit described herein.

[0108] In a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the packaging machine 1 further comprises a strip application device for applying a sealing strip to a web of packaging material. The strip application device comprises a conveying device for conveying the sealing strip along a strip conveying path and to the web of packaging material 4 before the formation of a tube 3. The strip application device comprises a heat distribution device configured to direct a flow of heated gas (particularly air) to the web of multilayer packaging material and / or the sealing strip. The strip application device comprises an application device configured to heat-seal the sealing strip to the web of multilayer packaging material.

[0109] Preferably, the strip application device is of the type described in European Patent Application EP4137295A1, filed in the name of the present applicant. It is expressly understood that all functional and structural features of the device described in European Patent Application EP4137295A1 are applicable to the folding unit described herein.

[0110] In one or more embodiments, the packaging machine 1 is configured to receive fluid products from an upstream device and / or to transport formed and sealed (and folded) packages 2 to a downstream device.

[0111] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 17 is configured to control the transport device 5 and / or the tension adjustment device 32 and / or the package forming unit 16 to change and / or alter the forward speed of the tube 3 and the release speed of the formed and sealed package 2.

[0112] Preferably, the control unit 17 is configured to control a first variation and a second variation of the forward speed. The first variation continues over a first time period. The second variation continues over a second time period. The first variation is a speed variation from a first initial speed to a first target speed. The first initial speed may be lower or higher than the first target speed. The second variation is a speed variation from a second initial speed to a second target speed. The second initial speed may be lower or higher than the second target speed. The first initial speed may be different from the second initial speed, and / or the first target speed may be different from the second target speed.

[0113] The first target speed and the second target speed represent the final speed values ​​to be reached during the first and second speed fluctuations, respectively. In particular, the first and second target speeds represent the desirable operating conditions for the machine.

[0114] Preferably, the first initial speed is different from the second initial speed, and / or the first target speed is different from the second target speed. However, this disclosure also discloses that if the first target speed is different from the second target speed, the first initial speed may be equal to the second initial speed, and similarly, if the first initial speed is different from the second initial speed, the first target speed may be equal to the second target speed.

[0115] In an unrestricted embodiment, the first and second initial velocities are zero, and the first and second target velocities are different from zero and distinct from each other (i.e., the first and second velocity fluctuations are acceleration from zero). In another unrestricted embodiment, the first and second initial velocities are different from zero and distinct from each other, and the first and second target velocities are zero (i.e., the first and second velocity fluctuations are deceleration to zero). In yet another unrestricted embodiment, the first and second initial velocities, and the first and second target velocities are different from zero (in this case, the first and second velocity fluctuations are either acceleration or deceleration).

[0116] Here, the terms "first target speed" and "second target speed" refer to two target speeds to be reached. During startup and operation, it may be necessary to change speeds from the initial speed to different target speeds. In particular, during startup, the machine is accelerated from zero (i.e., the first initial speed) to the first target speed, and then the speed of the tube may need to be reduced during operation to accommodate line problems (for example, if a temporary shutdown of downstream equipment necessitates a reduction in the release speed of the formed package). Once these problems are resolved, the tube is again accelerated from the second initial speed (greater than zero) to the second target speed (the same as or different from the first target speed).

[0117] From this perspective, the control unit 17 is configured to control the transport device 5 and / or the tension adjustment device 32 and / or the package forming unit 16 as follows: Once the first target speed is reached, the forward speed is maintained equal to the first target speed for the duration of the first period, and / or Once the first target speed is reached, the forward speed is maintained at the first target speed for the duration of the second period.

[0118] Therefore, when the first target velocity is reached, and / or the second target velocity is reached, the acceleration of tube 3 becomes zero (and remains zero for a certain period of time).

[0119] Furthermore, the disclosure also provides a case where the first target speed is greater than the first initial speed and the second target speed is greater than the second initial speed, and the tube 3 does not stop between the first and second periods. Similarly, the disclosure provides an alternative case where the first target speed is less than the first initial speed and the second target speed is less than the second initial speed, and the tube 3 does not stop between the first and second periods.

[0120] In particular, changes in the format (size and / or shape) of the discharged packages, or the need to adapt the packaging machine to the speed of the upstream equipment (equipment supplying the fluid product) and / or downstream equipment (equipment receiving the formed packages), may necessitate changing the forward speed of the packaging machine.

[0121] In one example, the first initial velocity is zero, the first target velocity is the forward speed required to release 15,000 units per hour in the first package format, the second initial velocity is zero, and the second target velocity is the forward speed required to release 15,000 units per hour in a second package format different from the first package format.

[0122] In yet another example, the first initial velocity is zero, and the first target velocity is the forward speed required to release 15,000 units per hour in the first package format. The second initial velocity is zero, and the second target velocity is the forward speed required to release 16,000 packages per hour in the first package format.

[0123] Preferably, the control unit 17 is configured to control the transport device 5 and / or the tension adjustment device 32 and / or the package forming unit 16 so that the forward acceleration of the tube 3 is equal to a predetermined acceleration value during the first variation period and the second variation period. That is, the forward acceleration of the tube 3 is constant and / or does not change during the first variation period and the second variation period. Therefore, the forward acceleration of the tube is constant and / or does not change throughout the entire first period and the entire second period. Note that the "predetermined acceleration" may have a positive value or a negative value (in the latter case, deceleration).

[0124] Preferably, the control unit 17 is configured to control the transport device 5 and / or the tension adjustment device 32 and / or the package forming unit 16 such that the first period is different from the second period (i.e., lasts for different durations).

[0125] In particular, if the absolute value of the first variation is greater than the absolute value of the second variation, the first period will be longer than the second period. Conversely, if the absolute value of the first variation is less than the absolute value of the second variation, the first period will be shorter than the second period. When the target velocity is greater than the initial velocity, the "absolute value" of the variation is defined as the difference between the target velocity and the corresponding initial velocity. Conversely, when the target velocity is less than the initial velocity, the "absolute value" of the variation is defined as the difference between the initial velocity and the target velocity.

[0126] Therefore, if the first target velocity is greater than the first initial velocity, the absolute value of the fluctuation is the difference between the first target velocity and the second initial velocity. Similarly, if the second target velocity is greater than the second initial velocity, the absolute value of the fluctuation is the difference between the second target velocity and the second initial velocity.

[0127] If the first target velocity is lower than the first initial velocity, the absolute value of the fluctuation is the difference between the first initial velocity and the first target velocity. Similarly, if the second target velocity is lower than the second initial velocity, the absolute value of the fluctuation is the difference between the second initial velocity and the second target velocity.

[0128] Generally, the control unit 17 is configured to control multiple fluctuations in forward speed, ensuring that the acceleration is equal to a predetermined acceleration value at all fluctuations in forward speed. However, these multiple fluctuations may occur over different periods. These multiple fluctuations include a first fluctuation and a second fluctuation.

[0129] Therefore, as described above, existing machines are configured to operate according to a "constant time" approach during fluctuations in forward speed.

[0130] On the other hand, the packaging machine of the present invention is configured to operate according to a "constant acceleration" or "constant deceleration" method during fluctuations in forward speed. In particular, the machine of the present invention is configured to operate according to a "constant acceleration" or "constant deceleration" method regardless of the target speed to be reached and / or the type of package to be formed. However, preferably, it is desirable that the structure of the packaging material (i.e., multilayer structure) is the same for all types of packages processed by the machine.

[0131] Figure 3 shows an example of the operation of an existing machine. In particular, three forward speed variations are shown. The first variation (first velocity line) is the variation from zero speed to the first target speed S1. The second variation (second velocity line) is the variation from zero speed to the second target speed S2. The third variation (third velocity line) is the variation from zero speed to the third target speed S3. As is clear from Figure 3, the first, second, and third variations end in a predefined period t0. However, the forward acceleration of the web 4 and / or tube 3 (represented by the slope of each velocity line) is different in the first, second, and third variations.

[0132] Figure 4 shows an example of the operation of the packaging machine according to the present invention. In particular, three forward speed fluctuations are shown. The first fluctuation (first speed line) is the fluctuation from zero speed to the first target speed S1. The second fluctuation (second speed line) is the fluctuation from zero speed to the second target speed S2. The third fluctuation (third speed line) is the fluctuation from zero speed to the third target speed S3. As is clear from Figure 4, the first fluctuation is in the first period t1 、 The second variation persists until the second period t2, and the third variation persists until the third period t3. 。 The first period t1, the second period t2, and the third period t3 are different from each other. However, the forward acceleration of the web 4 and / or tube 3 (represented by the slope α of the velocity line) is the same in the first, second, and third variations.

[0133] The advantage of operating a machine according to a "constant acceleration" and / or "constant deceleration" method is that the stress on machine components is low, and in particular, the behavior of the machine during transient phases becomes uniform in sealing devices, sealing elements and / or irradiation devices and / or other components. In fact, since the machine is accelerated and / or decelerated according to a predetermined acceleration and / or deceleration, abrupt changes in the power of these components (sealing devices, sealing elements and / or irradiation devices and / or other components) are unnecessary.

[0134] In one or more embodiments, the control unit 17 is configured to control the sealing device (particularly the sealing head 21) and change the sealing force supplied by the sealing device (particularly the sealing head 21) in accordance with the forward speed. Specifically, the control unit 17 is controlled to increase the sealing force supplied from the sealing device (particularly the sealing head 21) in accordance with the increase in forward speed. Conversely, the control unit 17 is controlled to decrease the sealing force supplied from the sealing device (particularly the sealing head 21) in accordance with the decrease in forward speed. Thus, by having a predetermined acceleration when the forward speed increases and / or a predetermined deceleration when the forward speed decreases, the rate of increase and / or decrease of the sealing force supplied by the sealing device becomes a predetermined rate. The rate of increase and / or decrease of the sealing force reduces the load on the sealing head 21 compared to when the rate of increase and / or decrease of the sealing force fluctuates.

[0135] The control unit 17 is configured to control the sealing device so that the ratio of the sealing force supplied by the sealing device to the forward speed remains constant (i.e., does not change) during the first and second fluctuations of the forward speed.

[0136] Preferably, the control unit 17 is configured to control the lateral sealing assembly (i.e., the sealing element 64 of the operating assembly 61) and to change the sealing force supplied by the sealing element 64 in accordance with the variation in forward speed.

[0137] In particular, the control unit 17 is configured to increase the sealing force supplied by the sealing element 64 in accordance with an increase in forward speed. Conversely, the control unit 17 is configured to decrease the sealing force supplied by the sealing element 64 in accordance with a decrease in forward speed. Therefore, by having a predetermined acceleration when the forward speed increases and / or a predetermined deceleration when the forward speed decreases, the rate of increase and / or decrease of the sealing force supplied by the sealing element 64 becomes a predetermined rate. The rate of increase and / or decrease of the sealing force is such that the load on the sealing element 64 due to fluctuations in the sealing force is smaller than the load due to fluctuations in the sealing force.

[0138] In particular, the control unit 17 is configured to control the sealing element 64 of each operating assembly 61, and controls it so that the ratio of the sealing force supplied by the sealing element 64 to the forward speed remains constant (i.e., does not change) during fluctuations of the first forward speed and the second forward speed.

[0139] Preferably, the control unit 17 is configured to control the sterilizer to change the irradiation force supplied by the sterilizer in response to a change in forward speed. In this specification, “irradiation force” means the amount of radiation (in particular the amount of electrons) emitted per unit time.

[0140] In particular, the control unit 17 is configured to control the increase in irradiation force supplied from the sterilizer in accordance with an increase in forward speed. Conversely, the control unit 17 is configured to control the decrease in irradiation force supplied from the sterilizer in accordance with a decrease in forward speed. Therefore, by having a predetermined acceleration when the forward speed increases and / or a predetermined deceleration when the forward speed decreases, the rate of increase and / or decrease of the irradiation force supplied from the sterilizer becomes a predetermined rate. The rate of increase and / or decrease of irradiation force places a lower load on the sterilizer compared to a variable increase and / or decrease of irradiation force.

[0141] In particular, the control unit 17 is configured to control the sterilizer so that the ratio of the irradiation force supplied by the sterilizer to the forward speed remains constant (i.e., does not change) during the first and second fluctuations of the forward speed.

[0142] Furthermore, the control unit 17 is configured to control the heat distribution device of the strip application device to vary the heating force supplied to the web 4 of the strip and / or packaging material before the tube 3 is formed. In particular, the control unit 17 is configured to increase the heating power of the strip application device when increasing the forward speed of the tube 3 and / or the release speed of the package 2.

[0143] In particular, the control unit 17 is configured to increase the heating force supplied from the strip application device in accordance with an increase in forward speed. Conversely, the control unit 17 is configured to decrease the heating force supplied from the strip application device in accordance with a decrease in forward speed. Therefore, by having a predetermined acceleration when the forward speed increases and / or a predetermined deceleration when the forward speed decreases, the rate of increase and / or decrease of the heating force supplied from the strip application device becomes a predetermined rate. A predetermined rate of increase and / or decrease of the heating force reduces the load on the strip application device compared to the variable increase and / or decrease of the heating device of the folding unit.

[0144] In particular, the control unit 17 is configured to control the strip application device and controls the ratio of the heating force supplied by the strip application device to the forward speed to remain constant (i.e., unchanging) during the first and second fluctuations of the forward speed.

[0145] Preferably, the control unit 17 is configured to control the pressurizing device 43 (particularly the pump device 46, and even more particularly the compressor) to cause the second gas pressure to fluctuate and / or change. Preferably, the control unit 17 controls the pressurizing device 43 to control the transport device 5, the tension adjustment device 32, and the package forming unit 16 such that the fluctuation (i.e., degree of fluctuation) of the second gas pressure depends on the fluctuation (i.e., degree of fluctuation) of the forward speed and / or release speed. Preferably, the fluctuation of the forward speed and / or release speed occurs simultaneously with the fluctuation of the second gas pressure.

[0146] In particular, the control unit 17 is configured to control the transport device 5, the tension adjustment device 32, and the package forming unit 16 to drive fluctuations and / or changes in the forward speed of the tube and the release speed of the formed and sealed package, thereby driving fluctuations and / or changes in the second gas pressure. Preferably, for each fluctuation in the forward speed of the tube 3, the control unit 17 controls the fluctuation in the second gas pressure.

[0147] Therefore, in order to keep the tension of the tube and the tension of the package nearly constant, the control unit 17 controls the fluctuation of the second gas pressure when controlling the fluctuation of the tube's forward speed. In this way, the fluctuation of the second gas pressure (and the amount of fluid product) always compensates for the fluctuation of the tube 3's forward speed.

[0148] As a result, the quality of Package 2 remains good regardless of the forward speed of the tube, and even during the transient phase when the forward speed changes from one value to another. "Package quality" means that the values ​​of several parameters, such as the weight, dimensions, and surface appearance (specifically, the number and degree of wrinkles on the outer surface of the package), are maintained within predetermined tolerances, and the package is not discarded.

[0149] This highlights how the possibility of not discarding the packaging even during the transitional phase when the forward speed changes from a constant value to another value reduces production waste and improves the sustainability of the machine.

[0150] It has been pointed out that the possibility of operating a machine according to a "constant acceleration" and / or "constant deceleration" method is particularly advantageous in situations where the machine's speed changes dynamically. In particular, it is especially advantageous when parameters such as package weight need to be kept within a predetermined tolerance range even during speed fluctuations. In fact, packages produced during speed fluctuations are good products that meet quality requirements and do not need to be discarded, so shortening or lengthening the period of change in forward speed from the initial value to the target value does not substantially affect the machine's productivity and / or discard rate. Therefore, operating a machine in a "constant acceleration" and / or "constant deceleration" method reduces the load on parts without affecting the machine's productivity and / or discard rate.

[0151] Preferably, the control unit 17 has access to a database containing multiple values ​​for forward speed and / or release speed, and multiple values ​​for second gas pressure. In this database, the value of the forward speed is associated with the value of the second gas pressure. The control unit 17 is configured to dynamically control the transport device 5 and / or the tension adjustment device 32 and / or the package forming unit 16 and the pressurizing device 43 according to the values ​​stored in the database. In particular, when the control unit 17 controls the change from an initial value to a target value for the forward speed, it refers to the database to extract the value of the second gas pressure corresponding to the target value and controls the pressurizing device 43 so that the value of the second gas pressure corresponding to the target value is reached in the second space 42.

[0152] As described above, the package forming unit 16 is configured to operate periodically to produce a periodic profile of the forward speed of the tube 3 (and the release speed of the package 2). Accordingly, the control unit 17 is configured to control the main drive motor of the tension adjustment device 32, periodically changing the angular velocity of the main drive roller 33, so that the forward speed of the web 4 repeats according to a specified frequency.

[0153] The control unit 17 is configured to control the transport device 5 and / or the tension adjustment device 32 and / or the package forming unit 16, and to change the periodic profile of the forward speed of the tube 3 (and the release speed of the package 2). In particular, the control unit 17 is configured to change the periodic profile and / or frequency of the angular velocity of the main drive roller 33 in order to change the periodic profile of the forward speed of the tube 3.

[0154] A change in the periodic profile of forward velocity includes variations in the frequency and / or changes in the value of the period. In particular, in the context of this disclosure, “variation in forward velocity” means variations in the periodic profile and / or changes in the periodic profile.

[0155] In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the control unit 17 is configured to control the pressurizing device 43 to change the second gas pressure in response to a change in the periodic profile of the forward speed of the tube 3. In particular, the control unit 17 is configured to control the pressurizing device 43 to change the second gas pressure during a first fluctuation in the forward speed and during a second fluctuation in the forward speed.

[0156] Preferably, the control unit 17 is further configured to control the filling device 15 to change the output ratio of the fluid product in response to variations in the forward speed and / or release speed. In particular, the control unit 17 is configured to increase the output ratio of the fluid product as the forward speed and / or release speed increases.

[0157] Preferably, the control unit 17 is configured to control the speed of the folding unit's endless conveyor according to the forward speed and / or release speed. Preferably, the control unit 17 is configured to control the folding unit's heating device and change the heating force supplied according to the forward speed and / or release speed.

[0158] In particular, the control unit 17 may be configured to increase the heating force supplied from the heating device of the folding unit in response to an increase in forward speed. Conversely, the control unit 17 may be configured to decrease the heating force supplied from the heating device of the folding unit in response to a decrease in forward speed. Therefore, by having a predetermined acceleration when the forward speed increases and / or a predetermined deceleration when the forward speed decreases, the rate of increase and / or decrease of the heating force supplied from the heating device of the folding unit becomes a predetermined rate. The rate of increase and / or decrease of the heating output of the heating device places a lower load on the heating device of the folding unit compared to the fluctuating increase and / or decrease of the heating output of the heating device of the folding unit.

[0159] In particular, the control unit 17 is configured to control the heating device of the folding unit so that the ratio of the heating force supplied by the heating device to the forward speed remains constant (i.e., does not change) during the first and second fluctuations of the forward speed.

[0160] This disclosure also provides a method for forming a plurality of sealed packages 2 filled with a fluid product. Preferably, this method is carried out by the machine covered by this disclosure.

[0161] This method includes the step of advancing the web 4 of the packaging material along the web advance path P via a conveying device 5.

[0162] This method includes the step of forming a tube 3 from a web 4 of packaging material via a tube forming device 13 that extends along its longitudinal axis and is at least partially located within the internal environment 11 of an isolation chamber 10 containing a sterilization gas.

[0163] This method includes the step of advancing the tube 3 along the tube advancement path Q. Inside the tube, there is a dividing element 40 that divides the tube into a first space 41 (which is in fluid communication with the internal environment 11) and a second space 42 located downstream of the first space 41 along the tube advancement path Q.

[0164] The method includes the step of introducing a variable flow rate of sterilization gas into the second space 42 via a pressurizing assembly to obtain a second gas pressure in the second space 42 that is higher than the first gas pressure in the first space 41.

[0165] This method includes the step of sealing the tube formed by the tube forming device 13 in the longitudinal direction of the tube with a sealing device, at least a portion of which is located within the internal environment 11 of the isolation chamber 10.

[0166] This method includes the step of continuously filling a tube 3 with a fluid product via a filling device 15.

[0167] This method includes the steps of forming a package 2 from a forward-moving tube 3 via a package forming unit 16, and then sealing and cutting it laterally.

[0168] This method includes the step of controlling the tension of the web 4 and / or tube 3 of the packaging material via a tension adjustment device 32.

[0169] This method includes the step of varying the forward speed of the tube and / or the discharge speed of the formed and sealed package.

[0170] In particular, this method includes the step of changing the forward speed of tube 3 according to a first variation and changing the forward speed of tube 3 according to a second variation. The acceleration of tube 3 is equal to a predetermined acceleration value in both the first and second variations. Therefore, the acceleration of tube 3 is constant in both the first and second variations.

[0171] The first variation continues in the first period, the second variation continues in the second period, and the first period is different from the second period.

[0172] Preferably, the method further includes a step of varying a second gas pressure. The variation in the second gas pressure depends on a variation in the forward speed and / or the release speed, and / or vice versa.

[0173] Preferably, the method further includes the step of controlling the sealing device to change the sealing force provided by the sealing device in response to variations in the forward speed and / or release speed.

[0174] Preferably, the method further includes the step of sterilizing at least a first surface of the web 4 of the packaging material with a sterilizer equipped with an irradiation device configured to irradiate at least a first surface of the web with sterile irradiation while it is advancing in a sterilization section of the web advance path. Preferably, the method further includes the step of controlling the sterilizer so as to change the irradiation force supplied by the sterilizer in accordance with variations in the advance speed and / or release speed.

Claims

1. A packaging machine (1) for forming multiple sealed packages (2) filled with a fluid product, A conveying device (5) that transports the web (4) of the packaging material along the forward path (P), An isolation chamber (10) separates the internal environment (11) containing sterilization gas from the external environment (12), A tube forming device (13) extends along the longitudinal axis, is positioned at least partially within the isolation chamber (10), and is configured to form a tube (3) from the advancing web (4) of the packaging material when in use, A sealing device is provided, at least a portion of which is located within the isolation chamber and configured to seal the tube formed by the tube forming device in the longitudinal direction. A filling device (15) configured to continuously fill the tube (3) with a fluid product, A package forming unit (16) is configured to form a package (2) from the forward-moving tube (3) during use and to seal it laterally, A tension adjustment device (32) configured to control the tension of the web (4), A control unit (17) configured to control the operation of the packaging machine (1), Equipped with, The control unit (17) is configured to control the transport device (5) and / or the tension adjustment device (32) and / or the package forming unit (16) to change the forward speed of the tube (3). The control unit (17) is configured to perform the following control: The first variation in forward speed, the first variation continues for the first period, The second variation in forward speed continues for the second period. Unlike the second period, the first period described above is The first variation is a velocity variation from a first initial velocity to a first target velocity, the second variation is a velocity variation from a second initial velocity to a second target velocity, the first initial velocity is different from the second initial velocity, and / or the first target velocity is different from the second target velocity. The control unit (17) is configured to control the transport device (5) and / or the tension adjustment device (32) and / or the package forming unit (16) so that the forward acceleration of the tube (3) is equal to a predetermined acceleration value during both the first and second fluctuation periods. Packaging machine (1).

2. The control unit (17) is configured to control the transport device (5) and / or the tension adjustment device (32) and / or the package forming unit (16), and is configured to decelerate the forward acceleration of the tube (3) to zero when the first target speed is reached. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 1.

3. The control unit (17) is configured to control the transport device (5) and / or the tension adjustment device (32) and / or the package forming unit (16), If the first target speed is greater than the first initial speed and the second target speed is greater than the second initial speed, or if the first target speed is less than the first initial speed and the second target speed is less than the second initial speed, The tube (3) does not stop between the first period and the second period. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The absolute value of the first variation is greater than the absolute value of the second variation, and the first period is longer than the second period. A packaging machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The control unit (17) is configured to control the sealing device in accordance with the fluctuations in the forward speed, so as to change the sealing force supplied by the sealing device. The control unit (17) is configured to control the sealing device so as to increase the sealing force supplied from the sealing device in accordance with an increase in the forward speed, and / or decrease the sealing force supplied from the sealing device in accordance with a decrease in the forward speed. A packaging machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The control unit (17) is configured to control the sealing device such that the ratio of the sealing force supplied by the sealing device to the forward speed remains constant during the first and second fluctuations of the forward speed. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 5.

7. The package forming unit (16) comprises a plurality of operating assemblies (61), a plurality of counter operating assemblies (62), and a track that advances the operating assemblies (61) and the counter operating assemblies (62) along a transport path. The actuation assembly (61) and the counter actuation assembly (62) are configured to cooperate with each other to form, laterally seal and laterally cut the tube (3) to form the package (2), and the actuation assembly (61) and the counter actuation assembly (62) are configured A half shell (63) is configured to contact the tube (3) and to define at least partially the shape of the package (2), A sealing element (64) or a counter-sealing element (65) is configured to seal the tube (3) between adjacent packages (2) in the lateral direction to obtain a lateral sealing portion (66), A cutting element or a counter-cutting element, which cuts the tube (3) between adjacent packages (2) in the lateral direction, Equipped with, The control unit (17) is configured to control the sealing element (64) of the operating assembly (61) and to change the sealing force supplied by the sealing element (64) in accordance with the change in the forward speed. The control unit (17) is configured to control the sealing force supplied from the sealing element (64) of the operating assembly (61) to increase in accordance with an increase in the forward speed, and / or to control the sealing force supplied from the sealing element (64) of the operating assembly (61) to decrease in accordance with a decrease in the forward speed. A packaging machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The control unit (17) is configured to control the sealing element (64) of the operating assembly (61) so that the ratio of the sealing force supplied by the sealing element (64) to the forward speed remains constant during the first and second fluctuations of the forward speed. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 7.

9. The sterilization apparatus includes a sterilization device that sterilizes at least the first surface of the web (4) of the advancing packaging material by applying sterilization irradiation, The control unit (17) is configured to change the irradiation force of the sterilization irradiation supplied by the sterilization device in accordance with the fluctuation of the forward speed. The control unit (17) is configured to control the increase in irradiation power supplied from the sterilizer in accordance with an increase in the forward speed, and / or to control the decrease in irradiation power supplied from the sterilizer in accordance with a decrease in the forward speed. A packaging machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The control unit (17) is configured to control the sterilizer so that the ratio of the irradiation force supplied from the sterilizer to the forward speed remains constant during the first and second fluctuations of the forward speed. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 9.

11. The system includes a folding unit that receives the package (2) from the package forming unit (16) and manufactures folded packages, the folding unit comprising: an endless conveyor for continuously supplying the package (2) along a folding path from a supply station to a discharge station; a first folding means for performing folding operations in periodic coordination with the package (2); a second folding means for performing further folding operations in periodic coordination with the package (2); and a heating device. The control unit (17) is configured to control the folding unit so as to change the heating force supplied by the heating device of the folding unit in accordance with the fluctuation of the forward speed. The control unit (17) is configured to control the increase in heating force supplied by the heating device of the folding unit in accordance with an increase in the forward speed, and / or to control the decrease in heating force supplied by the heating device of the folding unit in accordance with a decrease in the forward speed. The control unit (17) is configured to control the heating device of the folding unit such that the ratio of the heating force supplied from the heating device of the folding unit to the forward speed remains constant during the first and second fluctuations of the forward speed. A packaging machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The tube (3) is equipped with a partitioning element (40) that is positioned inside the tube (3) when in use and is designed to divide the tube (3) into a first space (41) and a second space (42), the first space (41) being fluidly connected to the internal environment (11), and the second space (42) being positioned downstream of the first space (41) along the forward path of the tube. The device includes a pressurizing assembly (43) that, when in use, introduces sterilization gas into the second space (42) to raise the second gas pressure in the second space (42) to a level higher than the first gas pressure in the first space (41). The control unit (17) is configured to control the pressurizing assembly (43) to change the second gas pressure during the first and second fluctuations of the forward speed. The packaging machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. The package forming unit (16) is configured to operate periodically to produce a periodic profile of the forward speed of the tube (3), and the packaging machine (1) further comprises a tension adjustment device (32) located upstream of the tube forming unit (13) along the forward path (P), the tension adjustment device (32) is configured A main drive roller (33) that can rotate around the main rotation axis, A main drive motor configured to drive the rotation of the main drive roller (33) around its main rotation axis, Equipped with, The control unit (17) is configured to control the main drive motor to periodically change the angular velocity of the main drive roller (33), so that the forward speed of the web (4) repeats according to a defined frequency. A packaging machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. A method for forming multiple sealed packages (2) filled with a fluid product, The steps include: moving the web (4) of the packaging material forward along the web forward path (P) and passing it through the conveying device (5); The steps include forming a tube (3) from the web (4) of the packaging material via a tube forming device (13) that extends along the longitudinal axis and is at least partially located within the internal environment (11) of an isolation chamber (10) containing sterilization gas, The steps include: advancing the tube (3) along the tube advancement path (Q), The steps include sealing the tube formed by the tube forming device (13) in the longitudinal direction with a sealing device, at least a portion of which is positioned within the internal environment (11) of the isolation chamber (10), The steps include continuously filling the tube (3) with a fluid product via a filling device (15), The package forming unit (16) forms the package (2) from the advancing tube (3) and seals it laterally, The steps include controlling the tension of the web (4) and / or the tube (3) of the packaging material via a tension adjustment device (32), It is equipped with, and furthermore, The steps include changing the forward speed of the tube (3) according to a first variation over a first period, The steps include changing the forward speed of the tube (3) according to a second variation over a second period, Equipped with, Unlike the second period, the first period described above is The first variation is a velocity variation from a first initial velocity to a first target velocity, the second variation is a velocity variation from a second initial velocity to a second target velocity, the first initial velocity is different from the second initial velocity, and / or the first target velocity is different from the second target velocity. The forward acceleration of the tube (3) is equal to a predetermined acceleration value in both the first and second fluctuations. method.

15. The first step is to maintain the forward speed of the tube (3) at a first target speed for a certain period of time after the first variation, The steps include maintaining the forward speed of the tube (3) at the second target speed for a certain period of time after the second variation, The method according to claim 14, further comprising:

16. In this case, a method that satisfies the following conditions: The first initial velocity is zero, the second initial velocity is zero, and the first target velocity and the second target velocity are different from zero and different from each other, or The first target speed is zero, the second target speed is zero, and the first initial speed and the second target speed are different from zero and different from each other. The method according to claim 14 or 15.

Images