Ultrasonic sealing systems and anvils

Abstract

The present invention relates to an anvil (500, 500') of an ultrasonic sealing system (300) for sealing a tube (112) of packaging material laterally. The anvil (500, 500') comprises a ridge (508) extending along the lateral direction (TD) of the anvil (500, 500'), the ridge (508) comprising an intermediate section (504) and first and second peripheral sections (502, 506) located on either side of the intermediate section (504), the first and second peripheral sections (502, 506) each comprising a first sub-part (502b, 506b) and a second sub-part (502d, 506d), the first sub-part (502b, 506b) being intermediate Positioned between section (504) and the second sub-sections (502d, 506d), the first sub-sections of the ridge (502b, 506b) are offset by a first distance (D1) from the intermediate section (504) in the longitudinal direction (LD) of the anvil (500, 500'), and the second sub-sections of the ridge (506b, 506d) are offset by a second distance (D2) from the intermediate section (504) in the longitudinal direction of the anvil (500, 500'), where the first distance (D1) is different from the second distance D2.

Description

Technical Field

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[0003]

[0001] The present invention relates to packaging technology. More specifically, it relates to an ultrasonic sealing system, an anvil, and a method for horizontally sealing a tube of packaging material using the ultrasonic sealing system.

Background Art

[0002] Ultrasonic sealing technology, also known as ultrasonic welding technology, has long been widely used in the food packaging industry for sealing carton packages. Ultrasonic sealing is formed by generating ultrasonic vibrations in the seal area to apply pressure and heat. This is usually achieved by sandwiching the packaging material between a vibrating transducer and an anvil. Heat is generated in the seal area due to the vibration, melting the plastic of the packaging material. The applied pressure fuses the packaging material to form an airtight seal. The heat generated depends on the amount of pressure applied, the pressure distribution, and the amplitude of the vibration. Furthermore, it is necessary to control these factors in combination with parameters such as seal time and seal energy to achieve a desired seal.

[0003] Ultrasonic sealing technology has the advantage that it does not require an electrically conductive material such as aluminum foil in the packaging material compared to induction sealing technology, also known as induction heating technology. This improves the cost efficiency and environmental compatibility of the packaging material.

[0004] In a roll-fed packaging machine, ultrasonic sealing technology is usually used to form a transverse seal, that is, a weld at the bottom of the tube of packaging material, thereby forming a package. The tube is formed by joining two ends of a web of packaging material with a longitudinal seal. Due to the design of the package, the area to be sealed is neither completely flat nor symmetric. For example, there is an area where the transverse seal intersects the longitudinal seal, and the thickness of the tube becomes three layers.

[0005] Designing anvils to accommodate such deviations is crucial to the performance of the sealing system. Lateral seal defects can have a significant impact on the food safety of the package. Therefore, there is a need for improved anvil designs that can provide more consistent and reliable sealing performance. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] The technology of this disclosure aims to mitigate, reduce, or eliminate, at least partially, the drawbacks and shortcomings of the above examples. In particular, it aims to provide improved ultrasonic sealing systems and anvils. Furthermore, the concept of the present invention also relates to packaging machines equipped with ultrasonic sealing systems and methods for operating ultrasonic sealing systems.

[0007] To improve sealing performance in roll-feed packaging machines, the anvil region corresponding to the intersection of the transverse and longitudinal seals (TS-LS cross) is typically adjusted in some way, such as by providing multiple teeth that create localized peaks of pressure and heat in the packaging material to compensate for variations in tube thickness. The anvil design remains constant for the rest of the tube width. However, the inventors have discovered that improved sealing performance is also possible in the peripheral section of the tube outside the TS-LS cross. As a result, the concept of the present invention provides an anvil with improved sealing performance across the entire width of the tube, particularly in the peripheral section of the tube outside the TS-LS cross. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] Various forms and embodiments of the disclosed invention are set forth below and in the attached independent and dependent claims.

[0009] According to a first embodiment, an anvil for an ultrasonic sealing system for sealing a tube of packaging material laterally is provided. The anvil includes a ridge extending along the transverse direction (TD) of the anvil. The ridge includes an intermediate section. The ridge further includes a first peripheral section and a second peripheral section located on either side of the intermediate section. The first and second peripheral sections comprise a first sub-part and a second sub-part. The first sub-part is located between the intermediate section and the second sub-part. The first sub-part of the ridge is offset from the intermediate section by a first distance (D1) in the longitudinal direction (LD) of the anvil. The second sub-part of the ridge is offset from the intermediate section by a second distance (D2) in the longitudinal direction of the anvil. The first distance (D1) is different from the second distance (D2).

[0010] By dividing the first and second peripheral sections into first and second sub-parts that are offset from each other, the different characteristics of these regions can be accommodated. In other words, it becomes possible to improve sealing performance by taking into account variations in the packaging material in these regions. For example, the effect of sealing in the longitudinal direction of the tube can be handled in an improved manner in the lateral sealing process.

[0011] The improved anvil offers further advantages in improving the distribution of pressure and heat throughout the tube. It can further enhance resistance in areas where fin corners, flaps, and / or fold lines are present, and at the ends of the tube.

[0012] Furthermore, by providing a longitudinal offset, the generated heat / pressure can be dispersed longitudinally, reducing the risk of overheating or rupture of the packaging material. This reduces the mutual influence between different regions of the tube that require different processing in the sealing process (e.g., the TS-LS cross region, the fold line region, or the corner / end region of the tube). For example, locally high (or low) pressure and heat can be applied to the fold line region, suppressing (or more specifically) the impact on the pressure and heat in adjacent regions.

[0013] The packaging material may comprise a cardboard layer and a plastic film laminated to the cardboard layer. The cardboard layer has the advantage of being compressible, and the plastic film (hereinafter also referred to as the plastic layer) can be melted by ultrasonic vibration to form a lateral seal. This means that the packaging material does not need to contain aluminum. Aluminum is commonly used when the lateral seal is formed by a sealing system based on induction heating. By omitting the aluminum layer, the packaging material becomes more cost-effective and has a lower environmental impact. Therefore, as an indirect effect of the anvil and sealing system, a more environmentally friendly package can be achieved.

[0014] The first and second peripheral sections may further comprise a first transition section adjacent to the intermediate section. The sum of the lateral lengths of the first transition sections of the first and second peripheral sections may be greater than the lateral length of the intermediate section. The lateral length of the first transition section may be determined by the dimensions of the package being formed. Similarly, the lateral length of the intermediate section may be determined by the dimensions of the TS-LS cloth.

[0015] The second distance (D2) may be smaller than the first distance (D1). In other words, the first sub-section, which is the part closest to the middle section, may have a larger offset from the middle section than the second sub-section.

[0016] The second distance (D2) may be zero. By setting the second distance (D2) to zero (i.e., aligned with the intermediate section), manufacturing can be simplified while achieving the offset between the first and second sub-parts.

[0017] At least one of the height, width, and slope angle of the second sub-part of the ridge may differ from the height, width, and slope angle of the first sub-part of the ridge.

[0018] By employing different ridge designs in different sub-sections, the sealing performance against tube movement can be further improved.

[0019] The lateral lengths of the first sub-part and the second sub-part may be set such that, in the lateral sealing state, the first sub-part is positioned to compensate for the longitudinal fold line of the tube, and the second sub-part is positioned to compensate for the edge of the tube. Here, the lateral sealing state refers to the operating state of the ultrasonic sealing system. In other words, the lateral sealing state refers to the process of forming a lateral seal.

[0020] A related advantage is that the sealing performance around the folds and edges of the tube may be improved.

[0021] The lengths of the first and second sub-sections may be further set to compensate for the ends of the tube.

[0022] Around the edge of the tube, the way it is folded can cause it to become slightly thicker. In other words, the rigidity of the packaging material causes the two sides of the packaging material to push against each other near the U-shaped folded edge.

[0023] The lengths of the first and second sub-sections can be set based on the structural properties of the tube's packaging material. By adjusting the lateral length in this way to match the packaging material, a more reliable lateral seal can be achieved compared to currently used methods that adjust ultrasonic properties without designing anvils in different ways to accommodate different structural properties. Structural properties of the packaging material include, for example, thickness, stiffness, number of material layers, and type of material layers.

[0024] The first and second peripheral sections may further include a second transition section positioned between the first and second sub-parts of the first and second peripheral sections. The lateral length of the first transition section may be greater than the lateral length of the second transition section.

[0025] The first and second peripheral sections of the ridge may have a certain height. This is advantageous in terms of ease of manufacture.

[0026] According to a second aspect, an ultrasonic sealing system for sealing a tube of packaging material in a transverse direction is provided. The ultrasonic sealing system includes an ultrasonic generator arranged to transmit ultrasonic vibrations to the tube. The ultrasonic sealing system further includes an anvil according to the first aspect. The anvil is arranged to face the ultrasonic generator such that in the transverse sealing state, the tube is disposed between the ultrasonic generator and the anvil.

[0027] The features of the first aspect described above are also applicable to this second aspect, where applicable. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the above.

[0028] According to a third aspect, a packaging machine is provided. The packaging machine includes a transverse sealing station (TS) for sealing and cutting a tube of packaging material in a transverse direction to form packages. The TS station includes an ultrasonic sealing system according to the second aspect.

[0029] The packaging machine may further include a PM reel receiving portion for receiving a reel of packaging material (PM). The PM reel holds a web of PM. The PM reel receiving portion may include a PM reel ID reader for reading a PM reel identification (ID) tag attached to the PM reel. The TS sealing station may include an anvil ID reader for reading an anvil ID tag of the anvil. The packaging machine may further include a control unit including a processor and a memory configured to receive PM reel ID data extracted from the PM reel ID tag, receive anvil ID data extracted from the anvil ID tag, compare the PM reel ID data and the anvil ID data, and confirm that the anvil matches the packaging material supplied via the PM reel.

[0030] The features of the first and second aspects described above are also applicable to this third aspect, where applicable. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the above.

[0031] According to a fourth aspect, a method is provided for sealing a tube of packaging material laterally using an ultrasonic sealing system according to a second aspect, performed in a packaging machine. The packaging material comprises a cardboard layer and a plastic film bonded to the cardboard layer.

[0032] This method involves placing the lateral sealing section of the packaging material tube between the ultrasonic generator and the anvil.

[0033] This method further comprises generating ultrasonic vibrations using an ultrasonic generator of an ultrasonic sealing system so that the plastic film of the packaging material in the lateral sealing section melts at least partially.

[0034] This method further comprises the process of crimping the tube in the lateral seal section between the ultrasonic generator and the anvil, thereby creating pressure on the lateral seal section to bond the plastic film and form a lateral seal.

[0035] This method may further include reading a PM reel ID tag provided on a PM reel in a packaging machine using a PM reel ID reader. This method may further include reading an anvil ID tag on an anvil using an anvil ID reader. This method may further include comparing anvil ID data extracted from the anvil ID tag with PM reel ID data extracted from the PM reel ID tag in the control unit. If the anvil ID data and PM reel ID data do not match, this method may further include transmitting a signal to notify of the mismatch between the anvil and PM.

[0036] This method may further include stopping package production if the anvil ID data and PM reel ID data do not match.

[0037] The features of the first, second, and third embodiments described above also apply to this fourth embodiment, where applicable. Please refer to the above to avoid unnecessary repetition.

[0038] According to the fifth aspect, a computer program product is provided. When executed by a computer, this program includes instructions that cause the computer to perform steps of the method according to the fourth aspect.

[0039] The features of the first, second, third, and fourth embodiments described above also apply to this fifth embodiment, where applicable. Please refer to the above to avoid unnecessary repetition.

[0040] According to the sixth embodiment, a non-temporary computer-readable storage medium is provided. The non-temporary computer-readable storage medium stores one or more programs configured to be executed by one or more processors of a processing system, the one or more programs including instructions for performing the method according to the fourth embodiment.

[0041] The features of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth embodiments described above also apply to this sixth embodiment, where applicable. Please refer to the above to avoid unnecessary repetition.

[0042] Further scope of application of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, the detailed description and specific examples illustrate some variations of the concept of the present invention, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications are possible within the scope of the concept of the present invention.

[0043] Therefore, it should be understood that the concepts of the present invention are not limited to the components described in the specific steps or systems of the described methods, and that the methods and systems may be modified. It should also be understood that the terms used herein are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to be restrictive. It should be noted that articles such as “a,” “an,” “the,” and “said” used herein and in the appended claims mean that there is one or more elements unless explicitly stated otherwise in the context. Therefore, for example, the expression “a device” or “the device” may include multiple devices. Furthermore, phrases such as “comprising,” “including,” and “containing” do not exclude other elements or steps.

[0044] The above and other aspects of the concept of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings illustrating variations of the concept of the present invention. These drawings are not intended to limit the present invention to any particular variation, but rather to illustrate and illustrate the concept of the present invention.

[0045] As shown in the figures, the sizes of layers and regions are exaggerated for illustrative purposes and are provided to illustrate the general structure of the modifications of the present invention. The same reference numerals refer to the same elements throughout. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0046] [Figure 1] This is a diagram showing a typical packaging machine. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of a package after horizontal sealing. [Figure 3] This is a cross-sectional view of an ultrasonic sealing system in a lateral sealing state. [Figure 4A] This is a diagram showing a tube of packaging material viewed from the side. [Figure 4B]This is a cross-sectional view of a packaging material tube, seen from above. [Figure 5A] This is a perspective view showing the first example of an anvil. [Figure 5B] Figure 5A is a front view showing a portion of the anvil. [Figure 5C] This figure shows different cross-sections of the anvil in Figure 5A. [Figure 5D] This figure shows different cross-sections of the anvil in Figure 5A. [Figure 6A] This is a perspective view showing a second example of an anvil. [Figure 6B] Figure 6A is a front view showing a portion of the anvil. [Figure 6C] This figure shows different cross-sections of the anvil in Figure 6A. [Figure 6D] This figure shows different cross-sections of the anvil in Figure 6A. [Figure 6E] This figure shows different cross-sections of the anvil in Figure 6A. [Figure 7] This flowchart shows a method for sealing a tube of packaging material laterally. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0047] The concept of the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, although several modifications are shown, the concept of the present invention may be carried out in many different forms and is not limited to the modifications disclosed herein. These modifications are provided for completeness and comprehensively illustrate the scope of the concept of the present invention to those skilled in the art.

[0048] Furthermore, it should be understood that the terms used herein are used solely for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to be restrictive. In this specification and the appended claims, articles such as “a,” “an,” “the,” and “said” should be interpreted as meaning that there is one or more elements, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. For example, the expression “unit” or “the unit” may, depending on the context, refer to one or more units. In addition, the terms “comprise,” “include,” and “contain” do not preclude other elements or steps. In this specification, the terms “comprise” or “comprising” are interpreted as identifying the presence of the described features, elements, steps, or components. These do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, steps, components, or groups thereof. The terms “and / or” are interpreted as meaning “both” or “each as an alternative.”

[0049] Furthermore, while terms such as "first," "second," etc., may be used in this specification to describe various elements or features, it should be understood that these elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are merely used to distinguish one element from another. For example, the first peripheral section may be referred to as the second peripheral section, and similarly, the second peripheral section may be referred to as the first peripheral section. These do not depart from the scope of this embodiment. The first peripheral section and the second peripheral section are both peripheral sections, but they are not the same peripheral section.

[0050] An anvil for an ultrasonic sealing system, an ultrasonic sealing system including an anvil, a filling machine including an ultrasonic sealing system, and a method for sealing a tube of packaging material laterally using an ultrasonic sealing system will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 7.

[0051] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the packaging machine 100. In its broadest form, the packaging machine 100 includes a lateral sealing station 114 that seals and cuts a tube 112 of packaging material laterally to obtain a package 116. The packaging material may consist of a cardboard layer and a plastic film, the plastic film of which may be attached to the cardboard layer. The lateral sealing station 114 includes an ultrasonic sealing system 300, which will be described later in relation to Figures 3 to 5A to 7. The packaging machine 100 may be a standalone packaging machine or part of a larger food packaging or processing line.

[0052] In the example shown in Figure 1, the packaging machine 100 is a roll-feed packaging machine, and its general principle is described below. In such a machine, the packaging material is supplied on a roll (or reel) 102 of the packaging material and loaded into the reel receiving section 118 of the packaging machine 100. From the roll 102 of the packaging material, a web 104 of the packaging material is formed. The web 104 of the packaging material passes through a sterilization station 106 to remove or reduce unwanted microorganisms from the web 104. Sterilization may be carried out using, for example, a hydrogen peroxide bath, a low-voltage electron beam (LVEB) device, or other suitable device that meets food safety regulations.

[0053] After sterilization, the web 104 is formed into a tube 112, for example, by a longitudinal sealing station 110. The tube 112 is formed by joining the two ends of the web 104 with a longitudinal seal LS. In this specification, “longitudinal direction” refers to the longitudinal direction of the web 104 or tube 112 of the packaging material. Therefore, the longitudinal direction coincides with the supply direction FD in the packaging machine 100. After the tube 112 is formed, food FP can be supplied into the tube 112 via a product filling pipe 108, at least a portion of which is located inside the tube 112.

[0054] The filled tube 112 reaches a lateral sealing station 114 equipped with an ultrasonic sealing system 300. Here, “lateral” refers to the transverse direction (i.e., lateral TD) of the tube flattened at the lateral sealing station 114. At the lateral sealing station 114, a lateral seal (TS) is applied to the lower end of the tube 112 using the ultrasonic sealing system 300. Generally, the ultrasonic sealing system 300 (described further below) has two main functions: 1) to provide a lateral seal, i.e., to weld two opposing aspects of the tube 112 together, separating the product at the bottom of the tube 112 located below the ultrasonic sealing system 300 from the product inside the tube 112 located above the ultrasonic sealing system 300; and 2) to cut the bottom of the tube to form a package 116. Alternatively, instead of performing the lateral sealing and bottom cutting in the same system 300 as shown in the figure, the bottom cutting step may be performed in a subsequent process using a separate device, or, if the package is sold in multi-packs, may be performed by the consumer.

[0055] After the package 116 is formed, it can be folded in a folding station (not shown) to form the finished food package 116.

[0056] As described herein, the reel receiving section 118 may be equipped with a reel ID reader 122 for reading a reel identification tag 120 on the reel 102. The reel ID tag 120 may contain information that identifies the reel. For example, the reel ID tag 120 may contain information indicating the type of packaging material wound on the reel 102, the physical properties of the packaging material (e.g., thickness, material composition, etc.), the type of package formed by the packaging material, or the settings of the packaging machine used. In other words, the reel ID tag 102 may contain information regarding the structural properties of the packaging material. The lateral sealing station 114 may be equipped with an anvil ID reader 124 for reading an anvil ID tag 512 of an anvil used in the ultrasonic sealing system 300. The anvil ID tag 512 may contain information indicating the anvil being used.

[0057] The packaging machine 100 may further include a control unit 126, which includes a processor 128 and memory 130. The control unit 126 may be configured to receive PM reel ID data extracted from the PM reel ID tag 120 and anvil ID data extracted from the anvil ID tag 512. The control unit 126 may further be configured to compare the PM reel ID data with the anvil ID data to confirm that the anvil matches the packaging material supplied via the reel 102. If they do not match, the control unit 126 may send a notification signal, for example, to the operator or the control system of the packaging machine 100.

[0058] Figure 2 shows, as an example, package 116 after a lateral seal has been applied and before it is folded into the finished package. As shown in the figure, package 116 is sealed with a lateral seal portion 200 that extends across the entire package from the first side 204a to the second side 204b of package 116.

[0059] Along the longitudinal direction (LD), the package is provided with multiple longitudinal fold lines 202a-c. The fold lines 202a-c are interpreted as recesses or weakening lines. The fold lines 202a-c are usually embossed during the manufacturing of the packaging material. The fold lines 202a-c are designed to facilitate folding the packaging material into the intended shape. For example, as further described below in relation to Figure 3, the tube 112 of the packaging material is formed into a desired shape (e.g., a shape with a rectangular cross-section) in a transversely sealed state. In this case, the fold lines 202a-c may be provided along the corners of the package so that the package is formed accurately and consistently. In the illustrated example, the package 116 has a first fold line 202a, a second fold line 202b, a third fold line 202c, and a fourth fold line (not shown) corresponding to the four corners of the package 116. However, the number of fold lines may be two or more, depending on the type and shape of the package 116.

[0060] Furthermore, as will be described later in this specification, the fold lines 202a-c also extend to the lateral seal section 200 in which a lateral seal is formed. Therefore, the lateral seal can be further improved by modifying the anvil to take these into consideration, as has been realized by the inventors. The tube 112 further comprises a first edge 204a and a second edge 204b. Due to the folding of the packaging material at the edges 204a and 204b, the inventors have realized that the lateral seal can be further improved by modifying the anvil to take these areas into consideration.

[0061] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the ultrasonic sealing system 300. More specifically, Figure 3 illustrates in detail the general principle and process of the ultrasonic sealing system 300. The process of operating the ultrasonic sealing system 300 to form a lateral seal is further described below with reference to Figure 7.

[0062] The ultrasonic sealing system 300 is configured to seal the transverse sealing section 200 of the tube 112 of the packaging material. The transverse sealing section 200, further illustrated in relation to Figures 4A and 4B, includes a first transverse end 404, a longitudinal sealing section (LS) 406, and a second transverse end 408.

[0063] The ultrasonic sealing system 300 comprises an ultrasonic generator 304 and anvils 500, 500', which are described further below, for example, in relation to Figures 5A to 6E. The ultrasonic sealing system 300 may also comprise a plurality of pairs of ultrasonic generators 304 and anvils 500, 500' arranged in a jaw system so as to form a lateral seal without interrupting the continuous movement of the tube 112.

[0064] The ultrasonic generator 304 is positioned to transmit ultrasonic vibrations to the transverse seal section 200 of the tube 112. This generates heat in the packaging material, resulting in at least partial melting of the plastic material in the transverse seal section. The anvils 500, 500' are positioned opposite the ultrasonic generator 304 and provide a reaction force against the ultrasonic generator 304. This positions the tube 112 between the ultrasonic generator 304 and the anvils 500 in the transverse seal state. The pressure between the ultrasonic generator 304 and the anvils 500, 500' causes the packaging materials to fuse together.

[0065] To further control the molding process of package 116, the ultrasonic sealing system 300 may further include a so-called volume-forming flap (not shown). More specifically, the volume-forming flap may be used to mold a tube 112 having a circular cross-section into a package having a rectangular cross-section in a controlled manner.

[0066] Moving on to the process of the ultrasonic sealing system 300, as shown in Figure 1, the tube 112 is preferably supplied from above so that the product is held inside the tube. In the first stage, sealing stage S, the ultrasonic generator 304 and the anvils 500, 500' are moved toward each other in their respective opposite directions so that the two opposite sides of the tube 112 are pressed together. Either the ultrasonic generator or the anvil may be fixed, or only the other may be moved.

[0067] To achieve a lateral seal, ultrasonic vibrations are generated by the ultrasonic generator 304, supplying heat to the packaging material. This heat at least partially melts the plastic layer (also called a plastic film, polymer layer, or thermoplastic polymer layer) of the packaging material, allowing the two opposing sides of the tube 112 to adhere to each other and maintain a single unit even after the applied pressure is removed. In a subsequent step (hereinafter referred to as cutting step C), the lower part of the tube 112 is cut off (for example, by a knife 306) to form the package 116. In this example, the knife 306 is located on the anvil 500, 500'. However, the knife 306 may be located on the opposite side of the tube 112, on the ultrasonic generator 304. Alternatively, the cutting step may be performed by a separate device located downstream of the ultrasonic sealing system 300.

[0068] To improve the package formation speed, parts of the ultrasonic sealing system (e.g., ultrasonic generator 304, anvils 500, 500', and other optional parts) can be moved along the supply direction FD with the tube 112 during sealing stage S and cutting stage C. Therefore, the ultrasonic generator 304 and anvils 500, 500' shown in sealing state S may be the same as the ultrasonic generator 304 and anvils 500, 500' in cutting state C.

[0069] Figure 4A is a side view of the packaging material tube 112, showing the stage in which it is being compressed to form a lateral seal section TS. In this specification, "side view" refers to the case where the tube 112 is oriented vertically, as shown in Figure 3, for example. Thus, Figure 4A shows the outer surface of the tube 112. Figure 4B also shows the tube 112, but this is a cross-sectional view from above, i.e., shown in section E-E'. It should be noted that the sizes and proportions of each section and region shown here should be understood as examples that mainly illustrate different sections and regions of the tube 112, and do not necessarily represent the actual packaging material tube 112.

[0070] As shown in the figure, when the tube 112 is flattened, it can be divided in the transverse direction (TD) of the tube into a first transverse end section 404 and a second transverse end section 408. Between the first transverse end section 404 and the second transverse end section 408 is a longitudinal seal section 406. These sections may extend along the longitudinal direction of the tube 112. The first and second transverse end sections 404 and 408 can be observed as a two-layer thickness region of the tube 112, i.e., a two-layer region of the tube 112.

[0071] The LS section 406 can be defined as the section in which the thickness of the tube 112 is affected by the LS. In other words, the LS section 406 can be viewed as a three-layer region of the tube 112. In a subsection of the LS section 406 (hereinafter referred to as the LS region 400), the tube 112 of the packaging material is compressed to a three-layer thickness by the folding of the packaging material to form the LS. The LS section 406 further extends over the LS strip 414 and is defined by the LS strip region 416. The LS strip is applied during the formation of the LS and seals the inside of the tube 112. The presence of the LS strip and the folding of the packaging material also affect the thickness of the tube in the LS strip region 416 and must therefore be taken into consideration when forming the TS.

[0072] In the longitudinal direction (perpendicular to the TD), the transverse seal section 200 is defined as the region where the TS is formed. The TS section 200 may be defined as the region located on either side of the cutting line 412 where the tube 112 is cut to form two independent packages, as shown in the figure. It should be noted that when a TS is formed in the TS section 200, it is not necessary to cover the entire TS section 200. Rather, the TS section 200 should be understood as a section involved in the TS formation process, for example, in the process of forming the transverse seal, in the sense that it may come into contact with the ultrasonic generator 304 and / or anvil 500, 500'.

[0073] At the intersection of TS section 200 and LS section 406, a TS-LS cross 410 (or TS-LS overlapping region) is formed, which is shown here by diagonal lines.

[0074] Figures 4A and 4B further show the first to fourth longitudinal fold lines 202a to d provided along the first and second transverse end sections 404 and 406 of the tube 112. As shown in Figure 4B, the fold lines on the opposite side of the tube 112, namely the first and third fold lines 202a and 202c, and the second and fourth fold lines 202b and 202d, coincide with each other in the transverse direction. However, in practice, the positions of the fold lines 202a to d may vary slightly due to variations in the packaging machine.

[0075] Furthermore, although the tube 112 at the first and second ends 204a and 204b is shown in the figure to be the same thickness as the rest of the first transverse end sections 404 and 408, it should be noted that the thickness of the tube 112 may be greater in the region around the first and second ends 204a and 204b due to the U-shaped fold of the packaging material and the rigidity of the packaging material.

[0076] Figure 5A shows an anvil 500 in a perspective view as a first example. In this specification, the longitudinal direction (LD) and the transverse direction (TD) are indicated as reference points. LD and TD correspond to the longitudinal direction and transverse direction described above. Therefore, TD refers to the direction in which the transverse seal is formed, i.e., the transverse direction of the tube when the tube is sealed (welded). Similarly, LD refers to the direction in which the longitudinal seal is formed, i.e., the longitudinal direction of the tube.

[0077] Figure 5B shows a cross-sectional view (front view) of the anvil 500, facing the surface positioned to engage with the packaging material and the ultrasonic generator when a lateral seal is formed. Figures 5C and 5D show two different cross-sections of the anvil 500 (along lines A-A' and B-B') to illustrate the cross-sectional shape of the anvil 500.

[0078] The anvil 500 described herein is configured to form lateral seals on both sides of a cutting line separating two consecutive packages. Thus, the anvil 500 has two similar portions on either side of a recess 516 for housing a cutting knife. Thus, the two portions are configured to form lateral seals on each of the two consecutive packages. Thus, the anvil 500 is symmetrical with respect to a center line indicated by a dashed line shown in the center of the recess 516. Thus, if it is stated that the anvil 500 comprises a ridge 508, it should also be understood that the anvil may also have the ridge 508 on the opposite side of the center line. However, for ease of understanding, the anvil 500 may instead be configured to form a single lateral seal. That is, the two portions of the anvil 500 may be separate elements. Thus, the anvil 500 may comprise a single projection. Hereafter, the anvil 500 will be described primarily with reference to one of its portions, but the same features and embodiments apply to the other portion as well.

[0079] In Figures 5A and 5B, the anvil includes a ridge 508. The ridge 508 extends laterally from the anvil 500. The ridge 508 should be interpreted as an elongated projection on the anvil 500. This projection serves to apply high pressure to a localized area when forming a lateral seal. This is intended to concentrate the generation of pressure and ultrasonic heat in the area surrounding the ridge 508. As shown, the ridge 508 is divided into an intermediate section 504 and first and second peripheral sections 502, 506 located on either side of the intermediate section 504. The intermediate section 504 is positioned to face at least a portion of the longitudinal seal portion 406 of the tube 112 in the lateral seal state (see Figures 4A and 4B). Thus, the lateral length of the intermediate section 504 can be set based on the dimensions of the tube of the packaging material to be sealed. The first and second peripheral sections 502, 506 are positioned to face at least portions of the first and second transverse ends 404, 408 of the tube 112. The intermediate section 504 of the ridge is typically designed to correspond to the difference between the number of layers of packaging material in the longitudinal seal portion of the tube 112 and the number of layers in the first and second transverse ends 404, 408. For example, the ridge 508 may be configured to have fewer protrusions in the intermediate section 504 compared to the first and second peripheral sections 502, 506 (i.e., the height of the ridge 508 is lower) to compensate for more layers of packaging material than necessary. As another example, as shown herein, the ridge 508 may comprise a plurality of transversely aligned teeth 514.

[0080] The first and second peripheral sections 502 and 506 each comprise a first sub-part 502b and 506b adjacent to the intermediate section 504, and a second sub-part 502d and 506d adjacent to the first sub-parts 502b and 506b. The first sub-parts 502b and 506b of the ridge 508 are offset by a first distance (indicated as D1 in Figure 5b) in the longitudinal direction of the anvil 500. The second sub-parts 502d and 506d of the ridge 508 are offset by a second distance (indicated as D2 in Figure 5b) in the longitudinal direction of the anvil 500. The first distance (D1) is different from the second distance (D2). The difference between the first distance (D1) and the second distance (D2) may be between 0.1 mm and 3 mm. Thus, the first and second peripheral sections 502 and 506 each comprise two sub-parts that are offset from each other in the longitudinal direction. The second distance (D2) may be smaller than, for example, the first distance (D1). This may be advantageous in that the intermediate section 504, the first sub-parts 502b, 506b, and the second sub-parts 502d, 506d can be separated from each other in the longitudinal direction, while the overall ridge 508 (and therefore the lateral seal width) can be kept smaller in the longitudinal direction. In this embodiment, the first sub-part regions 502b, 506b are offset from the intermediate section 504 in a direction away from the center of the anvil 500. However, in some embodiments, the first sub-parts 502b, 506b may be offset from the intermediate section 504 in a direction toward the center of the anvil 500. In some embodiments, the first distance (D1) may be smaller than the second distance (D2).

[0081] In the illustrated example, both the first distance (D1) and the second distance (D2) are greater than zero. However, in some embodiments, the second distance (D2) may be zero. In other words, the first sub-parts 502b and 506b may be offset from the second sub-parts 502d and 506d, while the second sub-parts 502d and 506d are in the same position longitudinally as the intermediate section 504.

[0082] The offsets described herein are defined from the center (in the LD) of the ridge 508 in different sections, more specifically from the center of the vertex 510 of the ridge 508 in different sections. The offsets are defined with the intermediate section 514 of the ridge 508 as the reference point, but any suitable reference point on the anvil 500 may be used. For example, the offsets of different sections may be defined with the center of the anvil 500 as the reference point. In this case, the first sub-parts 502b, 506b of the ridge 508 are offset by a third distance (D3), and the second sub-parts 502d, 506d are offset by a fourth distance (D4). The intermediate section 504 of the ridge 508 itself is offset by a fifth distance (D5) from the center. Note that the first and second peripheral sections 502, 506 may be divided into more subdivided sub-parts having different offsets from the first and second sub-parts 502b, 506b, 502d, 506d, taking into account further characteristics of the tube.

[0083] In the illustrated example, the first and second peripheral sections 502, 506 further comprise first transition sections 502a, 506a. The transition sections 502a, 506a are located at the ends of the first and second peripheral sections 502, 506 adjacent to the intermediate section 504. That is, the first transition sections 502a, 506a form a transition from the intermediate section 504 of the ridge 508 to the first sub-sections 502b, 506b of the ridge 508. The sum of the lateral lengths of the first transition sections 502a, 506a of the first peripheral sections 502, 506 (i.e., the lateral width of the brackets indicating the first transition sections 502a, 506a) may be greater than the lateral length of the intermediate section 504.

[0084] The lateral lengths of the first and second sub-sections 502b, 506b, 502d, and 506d (or, in other words, the ratio of the lateral lengths of the first and second sub-sections 502b, 506b, 502d, and 506d to the lateral lengths of the first and second peripheral sections 502 and 506) may be set such that, in a lateral sealed state, the first sub-sections 502b and 506b compensate for the longitudinal fold lines 202a to d of the tube 112. Furthermore, in a lateral sealed state, the second sub-sections 502d and 506d may be set to compensate for the edges of the tube 112. In other words, the transition between the first and second sub-parts 502b and 502d in the first peripheral section 502 may be set based on the expected positions of the first longitudinal fold line 202a and the third longitudinal fold line 202c, as shown in Figure 4B, so that the fold lines 202a and 202c engage with the first sub-part 502b of the ridge 508 and the first edge 204a of the tube 112 engages with the second sub-part 502d of the ridge 508. Correspondingly, the transition section 506d between the first sub-section and the second sub-section 506b may be set in the second peripheral section 506 based on the expected positions of the second longitudinal fold line 202b and the fourth longitudinal fold line 202d, so that the fold lines 202b and 202d engage with the first sub-section 506b and the second end 204b of the tube 112 engages with the second sub-section 506d of the ridge 508. Due to variations in the tube 112, the positions of the fold lines 202a to 202d may not be precise. A stepwise transition between the first and second sub-sections 502b, 506b, and 502d mitigates this variation in position. Therefore, the first and second peripheral sections 502, 506 may further comprise second transition sections 502c, 506c positioned between the first sub-sections 502b, 506b and the second sub-sections 502d, 506d. The lateral length of each of the first transition sections 502a, 506b may be greater than the lateral length of each of the second transition sections 502c, 506c. This makes the transition between the intermediate section 504 and the first sub-sections 502b, 506b smoother than the transition between the first sub-sections 502b, 506b and the second sub-sections 502d, 506d.The relatively sharp transitions in the second transition sections 502c and 506c are achieved because the fold lines 202a to d have relatively short lateral extensions. This allows for a more precise pressure distribution around this region.

[0085] Furthermore, the lateral lengths of the first and second sub-parts 502b, 506b, 502d, and 506d can be set based on the structural properties of the packaging material of the tube. Structural properties include, for example, the stiffness of the packaging material, the thickness of the packaging material, the number of layers of the material, the type of material (e.g., parameters relating to the heat capacity of the material, the viscosity of the material, the mechanical strength of the material, etc.), and the manufacturing method. If a multi-layer carton-based packaging material is used, the structural properties may include the structural properties of the individual layers (e.g., thickness, type of material, etc.). Furthermore, the structural properties may include the properties of the fold lines (e.g., width, degree of compression, etc.). The anvil 500 may be equipped with an anvil ID tag 512. The anvil ID tag 512 makes it possible to identify the anvil 500 and associate it with a specific packaging material through its structural properties.

[0086] Figures 5C and 5D show two cross-sections along lines A-A' and B-B'. More specifically, they show the surface profile of an anvil 500 positioned facing the ultrasonic generator in a lateral seal state. Figure 5C shows the profiles of the first sub-parts 502b and 506b of ridge 508, and Figure 5D shows the profiles of the second sub-parts 502d and 506d of ridge 508. Distance (D4) indicates the offset between the center of anvil 500 and the first sub-parts 502b and 506b of ridge 508, and is the same as distance (D4) in Figure 5B. Similarly, distance (D3) indicates the distance between the center of anvil 500 and the second sub-parts 502d and 506d of ridge 508, and is the same as in Figure 5B.

[0087] An anvil 500 according to the concept of the present invention may be configured such that additional parameters of the ridge 508 vary in the first and second peripheral sections 502, 506. For example, at least one of the height, width (i.e., in the longitudinal direction), and inclination angle of the second sub-parts 502b, 506b of the ridge 508 may differ from the height, width, and inclination angle of the first sub-parts 502b, 506b of the ridge 508. In this embodiment, the first sub-parts 502b, 506b of the ridge 508 have a height h1, a width w1, and an inclination angle a1. The second sub-parts 502d, 506d have a height h2 and a width w2. The second sub-parts 502d, 506d further have stepped inclined sections having an inclination angle a2 on the first side and inclination angles a3 and a4 on the second side. These stepped inclined sections form a support surface 518, which can further improve the sealing performance of the anvil 500. Here, the support surface 518 has a height h3 and a width w3. It should be noted that the height of the ridge 508 can be determined from any suitable point on the anvil.

[0088] The dimensions of height, width, and angle shown are relative in this embodiment and do not limit the scope of the invention. For example, as shown in Figures 5C and 5D, the width of the first sub-parts 502b and 506b of the ridge 508 is smaller than the width w2 of the second sub-parts 502d and 506d in this embodiment. It should be understood that the numerical values ​​of the measurements may differ from those shown herein. For example, the exact measurements of the anvil 500 will vary depending on the packaging material used and the dimensions of the package being manufactured.

[0089] As further shown in Figures 5A and 5B, in this embodiment, the height of the first sub-parts 502b and 506b of the ridge 508 is equal to the height h2 of the second sub-parts 502d and 506d. Therefore, the ridge 508 may have a constant height across the first and second peripheral sections 502 and 506. Alternatively, the height of the ridge 508 may vary across the first and second peripheral sections 502 and 506.

[0090] Figure 6A shows a perspective view of anvil 500' as a second example. Figure 5B shows a cross-section of anvil 500' in a front view facing the surface positioned to engage with the packaging material and the ultrasonic generator during lateral seal formation. Figures 5C to 5E show three different cross-sections of anvil 500' to illustrate its profile.

[0091] The same features and principles described above for anvil 500 in relation to Figures 5A to 5D also apply to anvil 500' shown in Figures 5A to 5D, unless otherwise specified. In particular, the shape and position of the first and second peripheral sections 502 and 506 of the ridge 508 in anvil 500' differ from those in Figures 5A to 5D.

[0092] As an example, the second transition sections 502c and 506c of anvil 500' are positioned further from the intermediate section 504 compared to anvil 500 in Figures 5A-5D. Furthermore, the first sub-sections 502b and 506b of the ridge have a changing inclination angle along their extension, as clearly shown in Figures 6C-6E.

[0093] Figure 6C shows the profile of anvil 500' in a cross-section along line C-C'. Line C-C' is located inside the first sub-parts 502b and 506b. Here, ridge 508 has a width w1, height h1, and inclination angle a1. Furthermore, ridge 508 has an offset D3 from the center of anvil 500'. Note that the labels indicating width, height, inclination angle, and offset are the same as in Figures 5A-5D, but their values ​​may differ. Figure 6D shows the profile of anvil 500' in a cross-section along line D-D'. Line D-D' is located outside the first sub-parts 502b and 506b. This ridge 508 has a width w2, height h2, and inclination angle a2. Furthermore, as in Figure 6C, ridge 508 is indicated by D3 as the offset from the center of anvil 500'. In the illustrated example, the width w2 and height h2 are equal to the width w1 and height h1 of the ridge in Figure 6C. However, the inclination angle a2 is different from the inclination angle a1 of ridge 508 in Figure 6C. In particular, inclination angle a2 is smaller than inclination angle a1. In this example, inclination angle a2 is used in the region of ridge 508 that contacts the longitudinal fold line and / or the edge of the tube in the lateral seal state. This example is considered a non-limiting example where the ridge parameters vary within a sub-part of ridge 508. In another example, for example, the width or height of ridge 508 may vary. All of these parameters can affect the pressure (and heat generation) and polymer flow during lateral sealing. Therefore, these parameters can be used as design parameters to enable different heat generation and different polymer flow.

[0094] Finally, Figure 6C shows the profile of anvil 500' in a section along line E-E'. Line E-E' is located in the positions within the second subsections 502d and 506d. This ridge 508 has a width w3, a height h3, and an inclination angle a3. The width w3 is greater than the widths w1 and w2 of the previous two sections. Furthermore, the center of ridge 508 has a different offset D4 from the center of anvil 500'. The offset D4 of ridge 508 in the second subsections 502d and 506d is smaller than the offset D3 of ridge 508 in the first subsections 502b and 506b, as in the examples in Figures 5A-5D.

[0095] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the steps of Method 700 for sealing a tube 112 of packaging material laterally using the ultrasonic sealing system 300 described above. Method 700 is performed in a packaging machine 100, for example by the control unit 126 of the packaging machine 100. Method 700 may also be a method for operating the ultrasonic sealing system 300. The packaging material comprises a cardboard layer and a plastic film adhered to the cardboard layer. The steps will be described in detail below with reference to Figure 7. The order shown is an example, and the steps of Method 700 may be performed in any suitable order, in parallel, or multiple times. For example, as will be described later, steps S708 to S716 may be performed before, during, or after steps S702 to S607.

[0096] Method 700 comprises providing a lateral sealing section 200 of the tube 112 of the packaging material between the ultrasonic generator 304 and the anvils 500, 500' of the ultrasonic sealing system 300 (S702).

[0097] Method 700 comprises generating ultrasonic vibrations (S704) using the ultrasonic generator 304 of the ultrasonic sealing system 300 so that the plastic film of the packaging material in the lateral sealing section 200 melts at least partially.

[0098] Method 700 further comprises (S706) pressing the tube 112 within the lateral seal section 200 between the ultrasonic generator 304 and the anvils 500, 500' so that pressure is formed in the lateral seal section 200 and the plastic film is bonded together to form a lateral seal.

[0099] It should be noted that generating ultrasonic vibrations (S704) and crimping the tube with the lateral seal section (S706) may be performed simultaneously.

[0100] Method 700 further comprises using the PM reel ID reader 122 to read the PM reel ID tag 120 on the PM reel 102 in the packaging machine 100 (S708).

[0101] Method 700 further comprises reading the anvil ID tags 512 of anvils 500, 500' using anvil ID reader 124 (S710).

[0102] Method 700 further includes comparing the anvil ID data extracted from the anvil ID tag 512 with the PM reel ID data extracted from the PM reel ID tag 120 in the control unit 126 (S712).

[0103] Method 700 may further include sending a notification signal (S714) to indicate a mismatch between the anvil ID data and the PM reel ID data. The notification signal may be sent, for example, to the control system of the packaging machine 100 or to the machine operator.

[0104] Method 700 may further include stopping package production if the anvil ID data and the PM reel ID data do not match (S716).

[0105] Furthermore, where the disclosure is described as a method, it is understood that it may be embodied as an apparatus or device comprising one or more processors and one or more memories connected to one or more processors, and containing computer code loaded to carry out the method. For example, one or more memories may, in some embodiments, store one or more computer programs that, when executed by one or more processors, perform steps, services, and functions of the method disclosed herein.

[0106] Furthermore, by examining the drawings, disclosures, and attached claims, those skilled in the art can understand and implement variations of the disclosed modifications.

Claims

1. An anvil (500, 500') of an ultrasonic sealing system (300) for sealing a tube (112) of packaging material laterally, wherein the anvil (500, 500') comprises a ridge (508) extending along the transverse direction (TD) of the anvil (500, 500'), the ridge (508) is Intermediate section (504), The intermediate section (504) is provided with a first peripheral section (502) and a second peripheral section (506) arranged on both sides thereof, the first peripheral section (502) and the second peripheral section (506) each comprising a first sub-part (502b, 506b) and a second sub-part (502d, 506d), the first sub-part (502b, 506b) being arranged between the intermediate section (504) and the second sub-part (502d, 506d), The first sub-portions (502b, 506b) of the ridge are offset by a first distance (D1) from the intermediate section (504) in the longitudinal direction (LD) of the anvil (500, 500'), The second sub-portions (506b, 506d) of the ridge are offset by a second distance (D2) from the intermediate section (504) in the longitudinal direction of the anvil (500, 500'), The first distance (D1) is different from the second distance (D2). Anvil (500, 500').

2. The first peripheral section (502) and the second peripheral section (506) are provided with first transition sections (502a, 506a) that are in contact with the intermediate section (504), The sum of the lateral lengths of the first transition portions (502a, 506a) of the first peripheral section (502) and the second peripheral section (506) is greater than the lateral length of the intermediate section (504). An anvil (500, 500') as described in claim 1.

3. The second distance (D2) is smaller than the first distance (D1). An anvil (500, 500') according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The second distance (D2) is zero. An anvil (500, 500') according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. At least one of the height, width, and inclination angle of the second sub-part (502d, 506d) is different from the height, width, and inclination angle of the first sub-part (502b, 506b) of the ridge (508). An anvil (500, 500') according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The lateral lengths of the first sub-parts (502b, 502d) and the second sub-parts (506b, 506d) are set such that the first sub-parts (502b, 506b) are positioned to compensate for the longitudinal fold lines (202a to d) of the tube (112), and the second sub-parts (502d, 506d) are positioned to compensate for the edges of the tube (112). An anvil (500, 500') according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The lateral lengths of the first sub-parts (502b, 506b) and the second sub-parts (502d, 506d) are determined based on the structural characteristics of the packaging material of the tube. An anvil (500, 500') according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The first peripheral section (502) and the second peripheral section (506) further comprise a second transition section (502c, 506c) positioned between the first sub-parts (502b, 506b) and the second sub-parts (502d, 506d) of the first peripheral section (502) and the second peripheral section (506), The lateral length of the first transition section (502a, 506a) is greater than the lateral length of the second transition section (502c, 506c). An anvil (500, 500') according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The first peripheral section (502) and the second peripheral section (506) of the ridge (508) have a certain height. An anvil (500, 500') according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. An ultrasonic sealing system (300) for sealing a tube (112) of packaging material laterally, wherein the ultrasonic sealing system (300) An ultrasonic generator (304) is arranged to transmit ultrasonic vibrations to the tube (112), The device comprises an anvil (500, 500') according to any one of claims 1 to 9, which is positioned opposite the ultrasonic generator (304), and is configured such that, in a lateral sealed state, the tube (112) is positioned between the ultrasonic generator (304) and the anvil (500, 500'). Ultrasonic sealing system (300).

11. A packaging machine (100) equipped with a transverse sealing (TS) station (114) for sealing a tube (112) of packaging material laterally and cutting it into a package (116), The TS station (114) comprises the ultrasonic sealing system (300) described in claim 10. Packaging machine (100).

12. The packaging machine (100) includes a packaging material (PM) reel receiving section (118) arranged to receive a packaging material (PM) reel (102), the packaging material (PM) reel (102) holds the web (104) of the packaging material (PM), and the packaging material (PM) reel receiving section (118) includes a PM reel ID reader (122) arranged to read a PM reel identification (ID) tag (120) on the PM reel (102). The TS station (114) is equipped with an anvil ID reader (124) positioned to read the anvil ID tags (512) of the anvils (500, 500'), The packaging machine (100) further includes a control unit (126) comprising a processor (128) and a memory (130), wherein the control unit is configured to receive PM reel ID data extracted from the PM reel tag (120), receive anvil ID data extracted from the anvil ID tag (512), and compare the PM reel ID data with the anvil ID data to ensure that the anvil (500, 500') matches the packaging material supplied via the PM reel (102). The packaging machine (100) according to claim 11.

13. A method (700) for sealing a tube (112) of packaging material laterally using an ultrasonic sealing system (300) in a packaging machine (100), wherein the packaging material comprises a cardboard layer and plastic foil attached to the cardboard layer, and the method (700) is, The lateral seal section of the tube (112) of the packaging material is placed between the ultrasonic generator (304) and the anvil (500, 500') of the ultrasonic sealing system (300) (S702). The ultrasonic generator (304) of the ultrasonic sealing system (300) generates ultrasonic vibrations so that the plastic foil of the packaging material in the lateral sealing section melts at least partially (S704). Between the ultrasonic generator (304) and the anvil (500, 500'), the tubes (112) in the lateral seal section are pressed against each other (S706), pressure is formed in the lateral seal section (302), the plastic foil is bonded, and a lateral seal is formed. Method (700).

14. Using the PM reel ID reader (122), the PM reel identification (ID) tag (120) on the PM reel (102) inside the packaging machine (100) is read (S708). Using the anvil ID reader (124), the anvil ID tag (512) of the anvil (500, 500') is read (S710). In the control unit (126), the anvil ID data extracted from the anvil ID tag (512) is compared with the PM reel ID data extracted from the PM reel ID tag (120) (S712). If the anvil ID data and the PM reel ID data do not match, a notification of mismatch between the anvil and the PM is sent (S714). The method according to claim 13 (700).

15. A computer program, which, when executed by a computer, comprises instructions to the computer to perform the steps of the method (700) described in claim 13 or 14, Computer program.

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