Packaging apparatus and method for forming multiple sealed packages filled with dispensable products.

Abstract

A packaging machine (1) for forming multiple sealed packages (2) includes a conveying device (5) configured to advance a web (4) of packaging material, an isolation chamber (10), a tube forming device (13) configured to form a tube (3) from the advancing web (4) of packaging material, a partitioning element (40) positioned inside the tube (3) and designed to divide the tube (3) into a first space (41) and a second space (42), a pressurizing device (43) configured to guide a flow of sterilization gas into the second space (42) and obtain a second gas pressure in the second space (42), 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, and a control unit (17) configured to control the filling device (15) and the pressurizing device (43) so that in the first transient phase, the filling device (15) becomes inactive and the pressurizing device (43) becomes active.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a packaging machine for manufacturing a sealed package of a pourable product, particularly a pourable food product.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing a sealed package of a pourable product, particularly a pourable food product.

Background Art

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

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

[0005] This type of package is usually manufactured by a fully automatic packaging machine. The packaging machine passes a web of packaging material through a sterilization device that sterilizes the web at a sterilization station and through an isolation chamber (a closed sterile environment) that maintains and advances the sterilized packaging material web. While the packaging material web passes through the isolation chamber, the packaging material web is folded and sealed longitudinally at a tube forming station, forming a tube having a longitudinal seam. This tube is further sent along a vertical transport direction.

[0006] To complete the molding operation, the tubes are filled with a sterilized or sterile-treated pourable product, particularly a pourable food, and are sealed laterally while being transported vertically within the packaging molding unit of a packaging machine, and then cut at equal intervals along the cross-section.

[0007] This forms a pillow pack within the packaging machine, and the pillow pack has a longitudinal sealing band, an upper transverse sealing band, and a lower transverse sealing band.

[0008] A typical packaging machine comprises a conveying device for feeding a web of packaging material along a web advance path; tubes formed from the web of packaging material along a tube advance path; a sterilizing device for sterilizing the web of packaging material before forming it into tubes; a tube forming and sealing device at least partially located in an isolation chamber and configured to form tubes from the web of packaging material in transit and to seal the tubes longitudinally; a filling device for filling the tubes with a dispenseable product; and a package forming unit adapted to form, laterally seal, and cut individual packages from the tubes of packaging material.

[0009] A typical packaging machine also includes a tension adjuster configured to control the tension of the tube, i.e., the packaging material forming the tube. In particular, it is known that the tension adjuster 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 adjuster are disclosed in European Patent Registration EP3725692B1 and European Patent Registration EP3725689B1 in the name of the present applicant.

[0010] To accurately form individual packages, the hydrostatic pressure provided by the dispenseable product within the tube must be sufficiently high. Otherwise, irregularly shaped packages may be obtained. Typically, the column of dispenseable product present within the tube to provide the required hydrostatic pressure extends at least 500 mm above the hit position (i.e., the position where each assembly for molding, sealing, and cutting begins to contact the advancing tube). As an alternative, the applicant's European Patent Registration EP3456638B1 proposes providing a pressurizing device configured to introduce a sterile gas into the tube during use, thereby obtaining a gas pressure that provides the appropriate molding pressure within the tube. This reduces the required hydrostatic pressure provided by the product column. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0011] Although this machine operates satisfactorily, there is a need to improve its behavior during the transient phases that occur before the machine stops, namely the transient phases after the operation phase and before the shutdown phase. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a packaging machine that overcomes at least one of the aforementioned drawbacks. Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing a sealed package that overcomes at least one of the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0013] These objectives are fully achieved by packaging machines and methods for manufacturing sealed packages according to one or more of the attached claims.

[0014] Two non-limiting embodiments of the present invention will be described illustratively with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0015] [Figure 1]This is a schematic diagram of the packaging machine according to the present invention, with some parts removed for clarity. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a magnified view of the packaging machine in detail, with some parts removed for clarity. [Figure 3] Figure 1 schematically illustrates the behavior of the machine during the stop phase, transient phase, second transient phase, and operation phase. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0016] Number 1 shows the entire packaging machine that uses tubes 3 made of packaging material webs 4 to produce sealed packages 2 for dispenseable foods such as pasteurized milk and fruit juice. In particular, when in use, the tubes 3 extend along their longitudinal axes and are positioned especially vertically.

[0017] The web 4 of the packaging material has a multilayer structure, typically consisting of a layer of fibrous material, which is paper, and a structure in which both sides of the web are covered with layers of heat-sealable plastic material such as polyethylene.

[0018] Preferably, the web 4 further comprises a gas and light blocking layer (e.g., aluminum foil or ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) film) and at least first and third heat-sealable plastic material layers. The gas and light blocking layer is superimposed on the first heat-sealable plastic material layer and further covered by the third heat-sealable plastic material layer. The second heat-sealable plastic material layer forms the inner surface of the package 2 that ultimately comes into contact with the food product.

[0019] A typical package 2 produced by the packaging machine 1 comprises a longitudinal seal and a pair of transverse seals 66, in particular a pair of upper and lower transverse seals 66 (i.e., one seal 66 located at the top of the package 2 and another seal 66 located at the bottom).

[0020] Referring to FIG. 1, the packaging machine 1 comprises a conveying device 5 that advances the web 4 along the web advancing path P from the supply station to the forming station 9 in a known manner. In use, the web 4 is formed into a tube 3. The conveying device 5 is also configured to advance the tube 3 along the tube advancing path Q.

[0021] The packaging machine 1 comprises an isolation chamber 10 having an internal environment 11, particularly an internal aseptic environment 11, which includes a sterilizing gas, particularly sterilizing air, and is separated from the external environment 12.

[0022] The packaging machine 1 comprises a tube forming device 13 that extends along a longitudinal axis and is particularly arranged vertically, and is at least partially, preferably completely, arranged within the isolation chamber 10, particularly at the forming station 9, and is configured to form the tube 3 from the web 4 advancing in use.

[0023] The packaging machine 1 comprises a sealing device that is at least partially arranged within the isolation chamber 10 and is configured to longitudinally seal the tube 3 formed by the tube forming device 13.

[0024] Preferably, the tube forming device 13 is configured to gradually fold the web 4 into the tube 3. In particular, by overlapping the first edge of the web 4 with the third edge of the web 4 on the opposite side of the first edge, a longitudinal seam portion of the tube 3 is formed, particularly a longitudinal seam portion that is sealed by the operation of the sealing device in use.

[0025] Preferably, the conveying device 5 is configured to advance the tube 3 and the intermediate body of the tube 3 along the tube advancing path Q, particularly from the forming station 9 to the package forming unit 16. In particular, the expression "intermediate body of the tube 3" means any shape of the web 4 after the folding of the web 4 by the tube forming device 13 has started but before the tube structure is obtained. In other words, the intermediate body of the tube 3 is obtained in the process of gradually folding the web 4 to obtain the tube 3, particularly in the process of overlapping the first edge and the third edge with each other.

[0026] Preferably, the tube forming device 13 includes at least two forming ring assemblies 22, and is particularly arranged within the isolation chamber 10 (particularly within the internal environment 11), and is configured to cooperatively and stepwise bend the web 4 into the tube 3. Specifically, the first edge and the third edge are overlapped with each other to form a longitudinal joint portion. In the specific illustrated case, the first forming ring assembly 22 is arranged downstream of the third forming ring assembly 22 along the path Q. In particular, the first and third forming ring assemblies 22 are arranged in parallel at intervals from each other. Further, the first and third forming ring assemblies 22 are arranged coaxially with each other and define the longitudinal axis of the tube forming device 13.

[0027] Preferably, the sealing device includes a seal head 21 configured to interact with the tube 3 and seal the tube 3 longitudinally, particularly to seal the longitudinal joint portion. In particular, the seal head 21 is configured to heat the tube 3, particularly along the joint portion. The seal head 21 can be of a type that operates by induction heating, heat flow, ultrasonic waves, or other means.

[0028] Preferably, the sealing device includes a pressing assembly configured to apply a mechanical force to the tube 3, particularly to the portion where the first edge and the second edge substantially overlap, to ensure the sealing of the tube 3 along the joint portion. In particular, the pressing assembly includes an interaction roller and a counter - interaction roller configured to apply a mechanical force from the opposite side of the joint portion. In use, the joint portion is placed between the interaction roller and the counter - interaction roller. Preferably, the interaction roller is supported by the forming ring assembly 22.

[0029] The packaging machine 1 includes a filling device 15 for (continuously) filling the tube 3 with a pourable product.

[0030] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the filling device 15 includes a product storage tank for storing / supplying dispensable products and a filling pipe 27 that is fluid-connected.

[0031] In particular, the filling pipe 27 is configured to guide the dispenseable product into the tube 3 during use. Preferably, the filling pipe 27 is at least partially located inside the tube 3 to supply the dispenseable product to the tube 3 (continuously) during use. Specifically, the filling pipe 27 includes a linear main pipe section 28 extending into the tube 3.

[0032] More specifically, the main pipe section 28 comprises an upper section 29 and a lower section 30 that are (preferably detachably) connected to each other. More specifically, the lower section 30 has an outlet opening into which a product that can be dispensed during use is supplied to the tube 3.

[0033] The packaging machine 1 includes a package forming unit 16 that forms a tube 3 that moves forward during use, seals it laterally, and cuts it laterally to form a package 2. In particular, the package forming unit 16 is located downstream of the isolation chamber 10, the tube forming device 13, and the sealing device along the path Q.

[0034] Referring to Figure 2, the package molding unit 16 is - Multiple actuating assemblies 61 (only one shown) and multiple counter actuating assemblies 62 (only one shown); and - A track (not shown) is configured to move the actuation assembly 61 and the counter actuation assembly 62 forward along their respective forward paths, and in particular, the actuation assembly 61 and the counter actuation assembly 62 move periodically along the forward path. More specifically, the actuation assembly 61 and the counter actuation assembly 62 are movable independently of each other along the track. It is equipped with.

[0035] 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.

[0036] More specifically, the actuation assembly 61 and the counter actuation assembly 62 are configured to cooperate with each other to form package 2 from tube 3 as they advance along the actuation portion of the forward path. In particular, while advancing along the forward path, the actuation assembly 61 and the counter actuation assembly 62 advance parallel to tube 3 and in the same direction.

[0037] More specifically, the actuation assembly 61 and the counter actuation assembly 62 are configured to contact the tube 3 as they move forward along the actuation portion of the forward path. In particular, the actuation assembly 61 and the counter actuation assembly 62 are configured to initiate contact with the tube 3 at a (fixed) hit position.

[0038] Furthermore, the actuation assembly 61 and the counter actuation assembly 62 are - Half shell 63 that is in contact with tube 3 and adapted to define at least partially the shape of package 2; - Either a sealing element 64 or a counter-sealing element 65 for laterally sealing a tube 3 located between adjacent packages 2 and forming a lateral seal 66; and - One of the following: a cutting element (not shown, known) or a counter-cutting element (not shown, known) for cutting the tube 3 laterally between adjacent packages 2, particularly between the sealing portions 66. It is equipped with.

[0039] In particular, the half shell 63 is configured to be controlled between an operating position and a resting position by the drive assembly. Specifically, the half shell 63 is configured to be controlled to the operating position when in use, with the operating assembly 61 or the counter operating assembly 62 moving forward along the operating part.

[0040] Furthermore, the sealing element 64 and the counter sealing element 65 can be of a type that operates by induction heating, heat flow, ultrasound, or other means.

[0041] According to preferred non-limiting embodiments, the package molding unit 16 is of the type described in European Patent Publication EP3254980A1 and European Patent Publication EP3476751A1 in the name of the present applicant. It is expressly understood that all functional and structural features of the package forming assemblies described in European Patent Publication EP3254980A1 and European Patent Publication EP3476751A1 are applicable to the package molding unit 16 described herein.

[0042] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the isolation chamber 10 comprises a housing 14 (shown schematically only) that defines the internal environment 11 (i.e., the housing 14 separates the internal environment 11 from the external environment 12). In particular, the internal environment 11 comprises (i.e., includes) a sterilization gas, in particular sterilization air, at a predetermined pressure. Preferably, the predetermined pressure is slightly above the ambient pressure to reduce the risk of contaminant intrusion into the internal environment 11. Specifically, the predetermined pressure is about 100 Pa to 500 Pa (0.001 Bar to 0.005 Bar) higher than the ambient pressure.

[0043] Preferably, the packaging machine 1 includes means (not shown, known means) for supplying a sterilization gas, particularly sterilization air, to the isolation chamber 10, particularly the internal environment 11.

[0044] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, particularly referring to Figure 2, the packaging machine 1 further, - Partitioning elements 40 that are placed inside tube 3 when in use and are designed to divide tube 3 into a first space 41 and a second space 42 when in use; and - A pressurizing device 43 is configured to guide the flow of sterilization gas into the second space 42, particularly continuously during use, and to ensure that the gas pressure in the second space 42 is higher than the gas pressure in the first space 41. It is equipped with.

[0045] More specifically, the first space 41 is demarcated by the tube 3, particularly the walls of the tube 3, and the partitioning element 40. Furthermore, the first space 41 is connected to the internal environment 11. More specifically, the partitioning element 40 demarcates the first space 41 in its downstream portion, particularly at the bottom.

[0046] More specifically, the second space 42 is partitioned during use by the tube 3, particularly the walls of the tube 3, the partitioning element 40, and the lateral sealing portion 66.

[0047] It should be noted that the outlet opening of the lower section 30 of the filling pipe 27 is open to the second space 42. Therefore, the outlet opening of the lower section 30 is operably located below the compartment element 40.

[0048] More specifically, the first space 41 is located upstream of the second space 42 along the tube forward path Q. More precisely, the first space 41 is located upstream of the partition element 40 along the path Q. In the illustrated example, 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 that is approximately 5 kPa to 40 kPa (0.05 bar to 0.4 bar), and particularly approximately 10 kPa to 30 kPa (0.10 bar to 0.30 bar), higher than the ambient pressure (i.e., the pressure in the second space 42 is approximately 5 kPa to 40 kPa (0.05 bar to 0.4 bar), and particularly approximately 10 kPa to 30 kPa (0.10 bar to 0.30 bar), higher than the ambient pressure). In other words, the second space 42 is in an overpressurized state.

[0051] The low-pressure region (i.e., the first space 41) is understood to be a state where the pressure is slightly higher than the ambient pressure. In particular, being slightly higher than the ambient pressure means that the pressure is in the range of 100 Pa to 500 Pa (0.001 bar to 0.005 bar) higher than 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, tube 3 (and its intermediate portion) is placed at least partially within the isolation chamber 10 (especially the internal environment 11).

[0054] Preferably, the pressure in the first space 41 is (substantially) equal to a predetermined pressure present in the isolation chamber 10, particularly in 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 dispenseable product into the second space 42. Therefore, during use, the second space 42 contains the dispenseable product and pressurized sterilization gas. The pressurized sterilization gas provides the hydrostatic pressure necessary for accurate packaging of the package 2 (i.e., the sterilization gas replaces the effect of the column of dispenseable product within the tube 3).

[0056] Advantageously, the partitioning element 40 is designed to provide at least one fluid passage 44, particularly having an annular shape, which fluidly connects the second space 42 and the first space 41 during use. This allows for leakage of sterilization gas from the second space 42 (high-pressure region) to the first space 41 (low-pressure region) during use. Specifically, during use, sterilization gas leaks from the second space 42 (high-pressure region) to the first space 41 (low-pressure region) through the fluid passage 44. By providing the fluid passage 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 the fluid passage 44 is formed by the gap between the inner surface of the tube 3 and the partitioning element 40, particularly the peripheral edge 45 of the partitioning element 40, during use.

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

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

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] The packaging machine 1 also includes a control unit 17 for controlling the operation of the packaging machine 1.

[0062] Preferably, the rotating machinery, in particular the compressor, is configured to maintain a substantially constant gas pressure in the second space 42, thereby enabling a variable flow rate of sterilization gas in response to the gas flow from the second space 42 to the first space 41 (through the fluid passage 44).

[0063] Preferably, the pressurizing device 43 includes a gas supply pipe 48 that is at least indirectly fluid-connected to the internal environment 11 and the second space 42 in order to deliver sterilization gas from the internal environment 11 to the second space 42. In particular, the gas supply pipe 48 is directly fluid-connected to the second space 42. Preferably, the gas supply pipe 48 is at least indirectly connected to a pumping device 46, particularly a compressor.

[0064] More specifically, the gas supply pipe 48 includes at least a main section 49 that extends into the tube 3 when in use. In particular, the main section 49 extends parallel to the main pipe section 28. More specifically, at least the main section 49 and the main pipe section 28 are coaxial with each other.

[0065] In the illustrated example, 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.

[0066] More specifically, at least the main pipe portion 28 of the filling pipe extends at least partially into the main portion 49 of the gas supply pipe.

[0067] In particular, the cross-sectional diameter of the main pipe section 28 of the filling pipe is smaller than the cross-sectional diameter of the main section 49 of the gas supply pipe.

[0068] Preferably, the gas supply pipe 48 and the filling pipe 27 define / restrict the annular conduit 50 for supplying sterilization gas to the second space 42. In particular, the annular conduit 50 is restricted by the inner surface of the gas supply pipe 48 and the outer surface of the filling pipe 27.

[0069] In other words, during use, the sterilization gas is introduced into the second space 42 through the annular conduit 50.

[0070] The pressurizing device 43 further, - Pumping device 46, in particular a rotating machine, more specifically a compressor, and a first gas conduit 51 directly fluid-connected to the gas supply pipe 48; and - The internal environment 11 and the pumping device 46, in particular the rotary machine, and more specifically the compressor and the second gas conduit 52 directly connected to the fluid, It is equipped with.

[0071] Therefore, during use, sterilization gas is taken out from the internal environment 11 via the gas conduit 52, pressurized (compressed) by the pump device 46, and then guided into the second space 42 via the gas conduit 51 and gas supply pipe 48.

[0072] Preferably, the compartment element 40 is detachably connected to at least a portion of the filling pipe 27 and / or the gas supply pipe 48, particularly in a floating manner (i.e., with some play). In other words, the compartment element 40 is configured to move (slightly) parallel to the tube 3 as it moves forward during use.

[0073] Referring to Figure 1, the packaging machine 1 further includes a tension adjustment device 32 configured to control the tension of the tube 3. In particular, the tension of the tube 3 can be adjusted depending on the periodic forward speed of the web 4 and / or the tube 3, and / or depending on the operation of the package molding unit 11.

[0074] In particular, the tension adjustment device 32 is positioned upstream of the tube forming apparatus 13 along the web advance path P and is configured to adjust the tension of the tube 3, especially the tension of the portion of the web 4 extending between the tension adjustment device 32 and the tube forming apparatus 13.

[0075] Referring to 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, particularly a servo motor, is connected to the main drive roller 33 and configured to rotate the main drive roller 33 around the main rotation axis. It is equipped with.

[0076] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the tension adjustment device 32 is - Auxiliary drive roller 35 that can rotate around an auxiliary rotation axis; and - An auxiliary drive motor, particularly an auxiliary servo motor, connected to the auxiliary drive roller 35 and configured to actuate and / or control the rotation of the auxiliary drive roller 35 around the auxiliary rotation axis. To further prepare.

[0077] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the auxiliary drive roller 35 and the main drive roller 33 are spaced apart along the web forward path P, with the auxiliary drive roller 35 positioned upstream of the main drive roller 33.

[0078] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the tension adjustment device 32 is - A main counter roller 36 that is rotatable about a central axis and is positioned adjacent to the main drive roller 33, particularly in the tangential direction; and - Auxiliary counter roller 37 that is rotatable about a central axis, adjacent to the auxiliary drive roller 35, and particularly positioned tangentially, To further prepare.

[0079] 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.

[0080] Advantageously, the control unit 17 is configured to control the main drive motor so that the angular velocity of the main drive roller 33 changes periodically to control the tension of the tube 3, and in particular to control the tension of the portion of the web 4 extending between the main drive roller 33 and the tube forming apparatus 13.

[0081] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the control unit 17 is configured to control the main drive motor such that the angular velocity and / or angular acceleration of the main drive roller 33 are changed and / or controlled in response to the operation of the package molding unit 16 and / or the package forming cycle and / or the forces acting on the tube 3 and / or the operation of the filling device 15 and the filling of the tube 3.

[0082] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the control unit 17 is configured to control the auxiliary drive motor and the main drive motor between the auxiliary drive roller 35 and the main drive roller 33 such that the free loop 38 of the web 4 expands and / or advances when in use. In the present invention, the term free loop 38 indicates that the portion of the web 4 that expands and / or advances between the auxiliary drive roller 35 and the main drive roller 33 is not subjected to any tension and defines and / or forms the free loop 38.

[0083] Preferably, the control unit 17 is configured to control the auxiliary drive motor such that the angular velocity of the auxiliary drive roller 35 controls the extension of the free loop 38 that expands and / or advances between the auxiliary drive roller 35 and the main drive roller 33.

[0084] 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.

[0085] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the packaging machine 1 further includes a sterilizer for sterilizing at least a portion of the web 4, preferably at least a first surface, more preferably the first and second surfaces, in particular, while advancing the web along the sterilization section of the web advance path during use, toward at least the first surface. Preferably, the sterilizer is configured to sterilize at least a portion of the web 4 in a sterilization station located upstream of the tube formation station along the web advance path P. Preferably, the sterilization station is fluidly connected to the isolation chamber 10.

[0086] In particular, the irradiation device comprises at least a first irradiation emitter, particularly a first electron beam emitter, configured to apply sterilization irradiation, particularly electromagnetic wave irradiation, and more specifically electron beam irradiation, to the first surface of the packaging material web 4. Preferably, the irradiation device further comprises a second irradiation emitter, particularly a second electron beam emitter, configured to apply sterilization irradiation, particularly electromagnetic wave irradiation, and more specifically electron beam irradiation, to the second surface of the packaging material web 4 when in use.

[0087] Preferably, the irradiation device is of the type described in European Patent Publication EP3549878A1 and European Patent Publication EP3549613A1 in the name of the present applicant. It is expressly understood that all the functional and structural features of the devices described in European Patent Publication EP3549878A1 and European Patent Publication EP3549613A1 are applicable to the irradiation device described herein.

[0088] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the packaging machine 1 further comprises a folding unit configured to receive a sealed package 2 from a package forming unit 16 and produce a folded package.

[0089] It should be noted that the package 2 (so-called "pillow package") produced by the package molding unit 16 comprises a body, a first end, and second ends positioned on both sides of the body. The first end includes a first fin and a pair of first flaps projecting laterally from the body, and the second end includes a second fin and a pair of second flaps projecting laterally from the body. In particular, the first fin has a rectangular shape and projects from an (upper) lateral sealing portion 66, and the second fin has a rectangular shape and projects from another (lower) lateral sealing portion 66. The first end tapers from the body toward the first fin, and the second end tapers from the body toward the second fin. The first flaps have a substantially triangular shape and project from the counter-side of the first end. The second flaps have a substantially triangular shape and project from the counter-side of the second end.

[0090] The folding unit is - An endless conveyor that continuously transports package 2 along a folding path from the supply station to the discharge station; - A first bending means that periodically interacts with package 2 to flatten the first end, bend the first fin toward the first end, and bend the first flap toward the second end toward the main body; - A second bending means for flattening the second end, folding the second fin towards the second end, and folding the second flap towards the second fin. It essentially provides this.

[0091] Preferably, the folding unit further includes a heating device that acts on the folded 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.

[0092] Preferably, the folding unit further comprises a pressing device that cooperates with package 2 to hold the flap on the flattened fin while the flap is cooled. A heating device is positioned, in particular, between the folding means and the pressing device along the folding path.

[0093] In particular, the heating device includes an assembly air device, a pair of first nozzles connected to the assembly air device and configured to blow hot air onto the first flap of the package before the package 2 reaches the pressing device, and a pair of second nozzles connected to the assembly air device and configured to blow hot air onto the second flap of the package 2.

[0094] Preferably, the folding unit is of the type described in European Patent Application Publication EP3549613A1 in the name of the present applicant. It is expressly understood that all the functional and structural features of the apparatus described in European Patent Application Publication EP3549613A1 are applicable to the folding unit described herein.

[0095] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the packaging machine 1 (particularly the tube forming machine 13) further comprises a strip mounting device configured to apply a sealing strip onto a web of packaging material. The strip mounting device comprises a forwarding device configured to advance the sealing strip along a strip advancement path toward the web 4 of packaging material and position it on the web 4 before the formation of the tube 3. The strip mounting device comprises a heat distribution device configured to blow a stream of heated gas (particularly air) onto the web 4 and / or the sealing strip. The strip mounting device comprises an adhesion device configured to adhere the sealing strip to the web 4.

[0096] Preferably, the strip mounting device is of the type described in European Patent Application Publication EP4137295A1 in the name of the present applicant. It is expressly understood that all the functional and structural features of the device described in European Patent Application Publication EP4137295A1 are applicable to the folding unit described herein.

[0097] The control unit 17 is configured to control the operation of the filling device 15 and the package molding unit 16, and preferably also to control the operation of the pressurizing device 43. In particular, the control unit 17 is configured to control the filling device 15, the package molding unit 16, and preferably the pressurizing device 43 to define the operation phase and the stop phase. Specifically, in the operation phase, the packaging machine 1 produces sealed packages 2 filled with dispenseable products. In the stop phase, the packaging machine 1 is stopped, and no packages 2 are produced.

[0098] During the operating phase, the filling device 15 is in an active state, continuously filling the tube 3 with a product that can be dispensed.

[0099] Furthermore, during the operation phase, the package molding unit 16 is in an active state, forming the package 2 from the advancing tube 3 and sealing it laterally.

[0100] Preferably, during the operating phase, the pressurizing device 43 is in an active state, directing a flow of sterilization gas into the second space 42 in order to obtain a second gas pressure in the second space 42.

[0101] During the shutdown phase, the filling device 15 is in an inactive state and does not fill the tube 3 with a product that can be dispensed.

[0102] Furthermore, during the stop phase, the package molding unit 16 is in an inactive state, not forming a package 2 from the advancing tube 3 and not performing lateral sealing.

[0103] Preferably, during the shutdown phase, the pressurizing device 43 is in an active state to maintain overpressure in the second space 42.

[0104] In particular, the filling device includes a filling valve connected to a filling pipe 27, which is operable in an open position that allows the dispenseable product to flow through the filling pipe 27 (particularly the outlet of the lower section 30) and in a closed position that prevents the dispenseable product from flowing through the filling pipe 27 (particularly the outlet of the lower section 30). The control unit 17 is configured to control the filling valve to switch the filling device 15 into an active state and / or an inactive state.

[0105] According to this disclosure, the control unit 17 is configured to control the filling device 15 and the package molding unit 16, preferably the pressurizing device 43, and to define a transient phase. In particular, the transient phase is after the operation phase and before the stop phase. Therefore, the transient phase occurs immediately before the machine stops.

[0106] During the transient phase, the filling device 15 is in an inactive state.

[0107] Furthermore, during the transient phase, the package molding unit 16 is in an active state.

[0108] Preferably, during the transient phase, the pressurizing device 43 is in an active state.

[0109] During the transient phase before the packaging machine 1 stops, the filling device becomes inactive, and the machine continues to manufacture packages. In this way, the dispensable product in tube 3 can be emptied during the transient phase. Emptying the tube is particularly advantageous in preventing contamination from the external environment during the subsequent shutdown phase. In particular, emptying the tube also empties the filling pipe, preventing it from being exposed to negative pressure during the subsequent shutdown phase.

[0110] Furthermore, during the transient phase, tube 3 is filled with pressurized sterilization gas supplied from the pressurizing device 43, which allows the design to be maintained in a controllable manner even when the tube is empty (because the pressurized sterilization gas is supplied to the tube and package, giving them the same internal pressure as the dispenseable product in the operating phase). In particular, the phrase "maintaining the design in a controllable manner" means that the fold pattern provided in the packaging material is maintained in alignment with the package molding unit.

[0111] In particular, during the transient phase, the packaging machine 1 produces packages that are partially filled with pressurized sterilization gas and, if applicable, partially filled with residual dispensable product. In this way, during the subsequent stop phase, the tube 3 is maintained at a pressure higher than the ambient pressure, preventing contamination of the tube 3. Also, during the stop phase, the pressurizer 43 is preferably kept active to ensure that the second space 42 is maintained at an overpressure relative to the first space 41. Therefore, during the stop phase, the outlet opening of the lower section 30 of the filling pipe 27 is maintained at a pressure higher than the ambient pressure, preventing contamination of the filling pipe 27 during the stop phase.

[0112] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the package molding unit 16 is configured to release the sealed package 2 according to a predetermined release rate. The control unit 17 is configured to control the package molding unit 16 in a transient phase so that the release rate decreases from the operating release rate to zero.

[0113] During the operating phase, the release rate is the operating release rate. During the stopping phase, the release rate becomes zero.

[0114] Furthermore, the conveying device 5 is configured to advance the packaging material web 4 according to the web advance speed. The control unit 17 is configured to control the conveying device 5 in the transient phase so that the web advance speed decreases from the operating web advance speed to zero.

[0115] During the operational phase, the web advance speed is the operational web advance speed. During the shutdown phase, the web advance speed is zero.

[0116] Furthermore, the conveying device 5 and / or the tube forming device 13 and / or the package forming unit 16 are configured to advance the tube 3 according to the tube advance speed. The control unit 17 is configured to control the conveying device 5 and / or the tube forming device 13 and / or the package forming unit 16 in the transient phase so that the tube advance speed decreases from the operating tube advance speed to zero.

[0117] During the operating phase, the tube advance speed is the operating tube advance speed. During the stopping phase, the tube advance speed is zero.

[0118] It should be noted that the package molding unit 16 is configured to release the sealed package 2 according to the release rate. It should be noted that the release rate, web advance rate, and tube advance rate are substantially equal to each other. Therefore, in the transient phase, the release rate, web advance rate, and tube advance rate all decrease to zero simultaneously.

[0119] In fact, the control unit 17 is configured to control the transport device 5 such that the tube advance speed along the tube advance path Q and / or the web advance speed along the advance path P are substantially equal to the discharge speed of the package 2.

[0120] Preferably, the control unit 17 is configured to control the rotational speed of the compressor of the pressurizing device 43 according to the release speed and / or the tube advance speed and / or the web advance speed. In particular, during the operating phase, the compressor operates at the operating rotational speed. During the transient phase, the rotational speed of the compressor decreases from the operating rotational speed to the base rotational speed. During the stopping phase, the compressor operates at the base rotational speed. Preferably, the base rotational speed is different from zero, and in particular greater than zero.

[0121] Preferably, the control unit 17 controls the package forming unit 16, preferably the pressurizing device 43, and the transient phase is configured to include a first transient subphase and a second transient subphase that follows the first transient subphase. In particular, the transient phase consists of a first transient subphase and a second transient subphase.

[0122] In the first transient subphase, the discharge rate is equal to the operating discharge rate. Also in the first transient subphase, the web advance rate is equal to the operating advance rate, and / or the tube advance rate is equal to the operating tube advance rate.

[0123] In the second transient subphase, the discharge rate decreases from the operating discharge rate to zero. Also in the second transient subphase, the web advance rate decreases from the operating advance rate to zero, and / or the tube advance rate decreases from the operating tube advance rate to zero.

[0124] Preferably, the control unit 17 is further configured to control the pressurizing device 43 such that in the first transient subphase, the compressor's rotational speed becomes substantially equal to the operating rotational speed, and in the second transient subphase, the compressor's speed gradually decreases from the operating rotational speed to the base rotational speed.

[0125] Figure 3 schematically illustrates this behavior. In particular, Figure 3 shows the following trends over time. - Second gas pressure P in the second space 42; - Flow rate F of the dispenseable product flowing out of the filling device 15; - Release rate S of the sealed package released by the package molding unit 16.

[0126] From time t0 to time t1, the packaging machine 1 is in the operating phase. During this operating phase, the package forming unit 16 is in an active state, and the package 2 is released according to the operating release rate. Also during this operating phase, since the compressor is operating at the operating rotational speed, the second gas pressure P in the second space 42 is substantially constant. Also during this operating phase, since the filling device 15 is in an active state, the flow rate F of the dispenseable product flowing out of the filling device 15 is also substantially constant.

[0127] At time t1, the filling device 15 switches to an inactive state, and as a result, tube 3 begins to empty. The filling pipe 27 also begins to empty.

[0128] From time t1 to time t2, the packaging machine 1 is in the first transient subphase. In this first transient subphase, the package forming unit 16 remains active, and the package 2 is still released according to the operating release rate. However, in this first transient subphase, the filling device 15 is switched to an inactive state, so the flow rate F of the dispenseable product flowing out of the filling device 15 rapidly decreases to zero. Furthermore, in this first transient subphase, the compressor is operating at the operating rotational speed, so the second gas pressure P in the second space 42 is maintained at approximately the same level as in the operating phase. However, the second gas pressure P in the second space 42 may fluctuate as tube 3 becomes empty.

[0129] At time t2, the emptying of tube 3 and filling pipe 27 is complete. Time t2 is defined as the moment when tube 3 and filling pipe 27 become completely empty, and at this moment the second transient subphase begins.

[0130] From time t2 to time t3, the packaging machine 1 is in the second transient subphase. During this second transient subphase, the package release speed, tube advance speed, and web advance speed gradually decrease until they reach zero. Furthermore, the compressor operating speed decreases to the reference rotation speed. As a result, the second gas pressure P in the second space 42 decreases during the second transient subphase.

[0131] From time t3 onward, the machine is in the stop phase. During the stop phase, the pressurizing device remains active, and in particular, operates at the basic rotational speed, so the second gas pressure P in the second space 42 remains stable (i.e., substantially constant). Therefore, during the stop phase, the second gas pressure P in the second space 42 remains (slightly) higher than the ambient pressure. In this way, contamination of the second space 42 and / or the filling pipe 27 is prevented during the stop phase.

[0132] Preferably, the control unit 17 is configured to control the sealing device as follows: - During the operating phase, the sealing device is in an active state, sealing the tube 3 formed by the tube forming device in the longitudinal direction. - During the shutdown phase, the sealing device is in an inactive state and does not seal the tube 3 formed by the tube forming device in the longitudinal direction. - During the transient phase, the sealing device is in an active state.

[0133] In particular, during the first transient subphase, the sealing force supplied by the sealing head is equal to the transient sealing force and remains substantially constant. Subsequently, during the second transient subphase, the sealing force supplied by the sealing head decreases from the operating sealing force to zero.

[0134] Preferably, the control unit 17 is configured to control the sterilization device as follows: - During the operating phase, the sterilizer is in an active state in which the sterilizer irradiates at least one front surface of the packaging material. - During the shutdown phase, the sterilizer is in an inactive state where it does not irradiate at least one front surface of the packaging material with sterile light; - During the transient phase, the sterilization device is in an active state.

[0135] In particular, during the first transient subphase, the irradiation force supplied by the sterile irradiation is equal to the operating irradiation force maintained during the operating phase and is kept substantially constant. Subsequently, during the second transient subphase, the irradiation force supplied by the sterile irradiation decreases from the operating irradiation power to zero.

[0136] Preferably, the control unit 17 is further configured to control the folding unit as follows: - During the operation phase, the folding unit is in an active state in which the folding mechanism performs at least one folding operation on package 2. - During the stop phase, the folding unit is in an inactive state in which the folding mechanism does not perform at least one folding operation on package 2; - During the transient phase, the folding unit is in an active state.

[0137] In particular, during the first transient subphase, the speed of the folding unit's endless conveyor is kept substantially constant, equal to the operating endless conveyor speed during the operating phase. Subsequently, during the second transient subphase, the speed of the folding unit's endless conveyor decreases from the operating endless conveyor speed to zero.

[0138] The heating force supplied from the heating device of the folding unit is equal to the operating heating power during the operating phase and is substantially constant. Subsequently, in the second transient subphase, the heating force supplied from the heating device of the folding unit decreases from the operating heating power to zero.

[0139] Preferably, the control unit 17 is further configured to control the strip mounting device as follows: - During the operating phase, the strip attachment device is in an active state, attaching the sealing strip to the web 3 of the packaging material; - During the shutdown phase, the stripping device is in an inactive state and does not attach sealing strips to the web 3 of the packaging material; - During the transient phase, the strip attachment device is in an active state.

[0140] In particular, during the first transient subphase, the heating force supplied by the heat distribution device of the strip mounting device is substantially constant and equal to the operating heating force that the strip mounting device had during the operating phase. Subsequently, during the second transient subphase, the heating force supplied by the heat distribution device of the strip mounting device decreases from the operating strip mounting device heating force to zero.

[0141] Therefore, during the transient phase before the packaging machine 1 stops, the sealing device and / or sterilization device and / or folding unit and / or stripping device are in operation, the tube forming device 13 forms the tube 3, and the package forming unit 16 continues to manufacture the sealed package 2. Meanwhile, the tube 3 is emptied as described above. This configuration, in conjunction with the configuration of the package forming unit 16 described above, allows for the recovery and discharge of any dispensable product remaining in the tube 3 using the manufactured sealed package 2.

[0142] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the transient phase lasts for at least 3 seconds and less than 25 seconds, specifically at least 5 seconds and less than 20 seconds, and more specifically at least 5 seconds and less than 15 seconds.

[0143] Preferably, the first transient subphase lasts for at least 2 seconds and less than 20 seconds, and more particularly for at least 3 seconds and less than 10 seconds. The second transient subphase lasts for at least 1 second and less than 5 seconds, and more particularly for less than 3 seconds.

[0144] Furthermore, this disclosure provides a method for forming a plurality of sealed packages 2 filled with a dispensable product. Preferably, this method is carried out by a packaging machine 1, which is the subject of this disclosure.

[0145] This method (particularly in the operating phase) includes the step of advancing the web 4 of the packaging material along the web advance path P via a conveying device 5.

[0146] The method includes the step of forming a tube 3 from a web 4 of a moving packaging material via a tube forming device 13 that is at least partially positioned within the internal environment 11 of an isolation chamber 10 containing a sterile gas (particularly during the operating phase) and extends along the longitudinal axis.

[0147] This method includes the step of advancing the tube 3 along a tube advancement path Q (particularly during the operating phase). A partitioning element 40 is placed inside the tube, dividing the tube into a first space 41 that is fluidly connected to the internal environment 11 and a second space 42 located downstream of the first space 41 along the tube advancement path Q.

[0148] This method (particularly during the operating phase) includes a step of introducing a variable flow rate of sterilization gas into the second space 42 via a pressurizing device, thereby obtaining a second gas pressure in the second space 42. This second gas pressure is higher than the second gas pressure in the first space 41.

[0149] This method (particularly in the operating phase) includes the step of sealing the tube formed by the tube forming apparatus 13 longitudinally via a sealing device at least partially located within the internal environment 11 of the isolation chamber 10.

[0150] This method includes the step of continuously filling the tube 3 with a dispenseable product via the filling device 15 (particularly during the operating phase).

[0151] This method includes the step of forming a package 2 from a forward-moving tube 3 via a package molding unit 16 and sealing (and cutting) it laterally.

[0152] 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 (particularly during the operating phase).

[0153] In particular, this method includes an operating phase in which the filling device 15 is in an active state, continuously filling the tube 3 with a product that can be dispensed, and the package molding unit 16 is in an active state, forming the package 2 from the advancing tube 3 and sealing it laterally.

[0154] Furthermore, during the operating phase, the pressurizing device 43 is in an active state, directing sterilization gas into the second space 42.

[0155] This method includes a stop phase in which the filling device 15 is in an inactive state where it is not filling the tube 3 with a product that can be poured out, and the package molding unit 16 is in an inactive state where it is not forming a package 2 from the advancing tube 3 and is not sealing it laterally.

[0156] Furthermore, during the shutdown phase, the pressurizer 43 remains active, directing the flow of sterilization gas into the second space 42. However, the rotational speed of the compressor in the pressurizer 43 during the shutdown phase is lower than during the operation phase. As a result, the flow of sterilization gas into the second space 42 during the shutdown phase is less than during the operation phase.

[0157] Furthermore, during the shutdown phase, the conveying device 5 and / or the tube forming device 13 (particularly the strip mounting device), and / or the sealing device, and / or the package forming unit 16, and / or the tension adjustment device 32, and / or the sterilization device, and / or the folding unit are in an inactive state.

[0158] According to this disclosure, the method includes a transient phase in which the filling device 15 is in an inactive state and the package molding unit 16 is in an active state. During the transient phase, the pressurizing device 43 is in an active state. The transient phase is after the operation phase and before the stop phase.

[0159] Preferably, the transient phase includes (or comprises) a first transient subphase and a second transient subphase following the first transient subphase.

[0160] Preferably, during the transient phase (particularly the second transient subphase), the release rate of the sealed package 2 and / or the forward speed of the tube 3 and / or the forward speed of the packaging material web 4 are reduced to zero. Also, during the transient phase (particularly the second transient subphase), the rotational speed of the compressor of the pressurizing device 43 is reduced from the operating rotational speed to a basic rotational speed, particularly greater than zero.

[0161] The advantages of the packaging machine 1 according to the present invention are clear from the above description.

[0162] During the operating phase, the packaging machine 1 produces a sealed package 2 in which the dispenseable product is sealed.

[0163] During the transient phase, tube 3 is emptied of any dispensable product and filled with sterilization gas. Thus, the packaging machine 1 produces packages that are at least partially filled with sterilization gas and possibly partially filled with dispensable product. This transient phase serves to prepare the packaging machine 1 and tube 3 for the next stop phase. In particular, as mentioned above, since tube 3 is emptied of any remaining dispensable product and filled with pressurized gas, during the stop phase, tube 3 and the filling pipe 27 are maintained at a pressure higher than the ambient pressure, preventing contamination.

[0164] During the stop phase, the packaging machine 1 does not produce packages 2. Also, since the pressurizing device 43 operates at the basic rotational speed, the pressure inside tube 3 decreases during the stop phase. However, because the basic rotational speed is greater than zero, the pressure inside tube 3 remains higher than the ambient pressure, i.e., 0.01 bar higher than the ambient pressure.

Claims

1. A packaging machine (1) for forming multiple sealed packages (2) filled with a dispenseable product, A conveying device (5) configured to advance the web (4) of the packaging material along a 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) extending along the longitudinal axis and at least partially located within the isolation chamber (10), configured to form a tube (3) from the advancing web (4) of the packaging material when in use, A partitioning element (40) is placed inside the tube (3) during use and is designed to divide the tube (3) into a first space (41) which is fluidly connected to the internal environment (11) and a second space (42) which is located downstream of the first space (41) along the tube's forward path. A pressurizing device (43) is configured to guide a sterilization gas flow into the second space (42) during use in order to obtain a second gas pressure in the second space (42) that is higher than the first gas pressure in the first space (41), A sealing device, at least partially located within the isolation chamber and configured to seal the tube formed by the tube forming apparatus in the longitudinal direction, A filling device (15) is configured to continuously fill the tube (3) with a dispenseable product and to guide the dispenseable product into the second space (42), A package molding unit (16) is configured to form the package (2) from a tube (3) that moves forward during use and to seal it laterally, 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 filling device (15) and the package molding unit (16) as follows: During the operating phase, the filling device (15) is in an active state for filling the tube (3) with a product that can be dispensed, and the package molding unit (16) is in an active state for forming the forward tube (3) and sealing it laterally. During the stop phase, the filling device (15) is in an inactive state where it does not fill the tube (3) with the dispensable product, and the package forming unit (16) is in an inactive state where it does not form the advancing tube (3) and does not seal it laterally. The control unit (17) is further configured to control the filling device (15) and the package molding unit (16) as follows: After the operation phase and before the shutdown phase, the filling device (15) is in an inactive state, and the package molding unit (16) is in an active state. Packaging machine (1).

2. The package molding unit (16) is configured to release the sealed package (2) according to the release rate, and the control unit (17) is configured to control the package molding unit (16) in the transient phase so that the release rate decreases from the operating release rate to zero. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 1.

3. The control unit (17) controls the package molding unit (16) and is configured such that the transient phase includes a first transient subphase and a second transient subphase following the first transient subphase. In the first transient subphase, the discharge rate is equal to the operating discharge rate. In the second transient subphase, the release rate decreases from the operating rate to zero. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 2.

4. The pressurizing device (43) includes a compressor configured to extract the sterilization gas from the internal environment (11), compress the sterilization gas, and guide the pressurized sterilization gas into the second space (42), and the control unit (17) is configured to control the pressurizing device (43) as follows: During the aforementioned operating phase, the compressor operates at the operating rotational speed. During the transient phase, the compressor decreases from the operating rotational speed to the base rotational speed. During the aforementioned stopping phase, the compressor operates at the aforementioned basic rotational speed. A packaging machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The control unit (17) controls the pressurizing device (43) and is configured such that the transient phase includes a first transient subphase and a second transient subphase following the first transient subphase. In the first transient subphase, the rotational speed of the compressor is substantially equal to the operating rotational speed. In the second transient subphase, the rotational speed of the compressor gradually decreases from the operating rotational speed to the base rotational speed. The packaging machine (1) according to claim 3 or 4.

6. The control unit (17) is configured to control the package molding unit (16) and / or the transport device (5) such that the forward speed of the tube (3) along the tube forward path (Q) is substantially equal to the operating forward speed in the first transient subphase, and gradually decreases from the operating forward speed to zero in the second transient subphase. The packaging machine (1) described in claim 5.

7. In the second transient subphase, the control unit (17) is configured to control the conveying device (5) such that the forward speed of the web (4) and / or the tube (3) of the packaging material is reduced to zero. The packaging machine (1) described in claim 5 or 6.

8. The control unit (17) is configured to control the transport device (5) as follows: During the operation phase, the conveying device (5) is in an active state that advances the web (4) of the packaging material along the forward path (P). During the stop phase, the conveying device (5) is in an inactive state, not moving the web (4) of the packaging material along the forward path (P). During the transient phase, the transport device (5) is in an active state. A packaging machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The control unit (17) is configured to control the sealing device as follows: During the aforementioned operating phase, the sealing device is in an active state that seals the tube (3) in the longitudinal direction. During the aforementioned shutdown phase, the sealing device is in an inactive state that does not seal the tube (3) in the longitudinal direction. During the transient phase, the sealing device is in an active state. A packaging machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The sterilization apparatus includes an irradiation device configured to sterilize by irradiating at least the first surface of the transport web (4) of the packaging material as it advances through the sterilization section of the web advance path during use, The control unit (17) is configured to control the sterilization device as follows: In the operation phase, the sterilizer is in an active state in which it irradiates at least one first surface of the web (4) of the packaging material with sterilization irradiation. During the stop phase, the sterilizer is in an inactive state in which it does not irradiate at least the first surface of the web (4) of the packaging material with sterilization irradiation. During the transient phase, the sterilization device is in an active state. A packaging machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The folding unit is configured to receive the sealed package (2) from the package molding unit (16) and fold it to manufacture the package, and the folding unit comprises an endless conveyor for continuously transporting the package (2) along a folding path from a supply station to a discharge station, and a folding mechanism that cooperates with the package (2) during use to perform at least one folding operation on the package. The control unit (17) is configured to control the folding unit as follows: During the operation phase, the folding unit is in an active state in which the folding mechanism performs at least one folding operation on the package (2). During the stop phase, the folding unit is in an inactive state in which the folding mechanism does not perform at least one folding operation on the package (2). During the transient phase, the folding unit is in an active state. A packaging machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The aforementioned transient phase lasts for at least 5 seconds and less than 20 seconds. A packaging machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. The filling device comprises a filling pipe (27) and a filling valve connected to the filling pipe (27), which is operable in an open position that allows the dispenseable product to flow through the filling pipe (27) and a closed position that prevents the dispenseable product from flowing through the filling pipe (27), and the control unit (17) is configured to control the filling valve to switch the filling device (15) between an active state and an inactive state. 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 dispenseable product, The steps include: advancing the web (4) of the packaging material along the web advance path (P) via the conveying device (5), The steps include forming a tube (3) from a web (4) of the packaging material as it advances, via a tube forming device (13) that is at least partially positioned within the internal environment (11) of an isolation chamber (10) containing sterile gas and extends along the longitudinal axis, The steps include: advancing the tube (3) along the tube advancement path (Q), Equipped with, A partitioning element (40) is placed inside the tube, dividing the tube into a first space (41) that is fluidly connected to the internal environment (11), and a second space (42) located downstream of the first space (41) along the tube's forward path (Q). To obtain a second gas pressure in the second space (42), a step is to introduce a variable flow rate of sterilization gas into the second space (42) via a pressurizing device, and the second gas pressure is higher than the first gas pressure in the first space (41). The steps include sealing the tube formed by the tube forming apparatus (13) in the longitudinal direction via a sealing device at least partially located within the internal environment (11) of the isolation chamber (10), The steps include: continuously filling the tube (3) with a product that can be dispensed via the filling device (15); The package (2) is formed from the advancing tube (3) via the package molding unit (16) and sealed laterally. Equipped with, The aforementioned method, The operating phase is such that the filling device (15) is in an active state for filling the tube (3) with a product that can be poured out, and the package molding unit (16) is in an active state for forming the advancing tube (3) and sealing it laterally. The stop phase is characterized in which the filling device (15) is in an inactive state where it is not filling the tube (3) with a product that can be dispensed, and the package molding unit (16) is in an inactive state where it is not forming the advancing tube (3) and is not sealing it laterally. Equipped with, The method includes a transient phase after the operation phase and before the stop phase, during which the filling device (15) is in an inactive state and the package molding unit (16) is in an active state. method.

15. During the transient phase, the release rate of the sealed package (2) and / or the forward speed of the tube (3) and / or the forward speed of the web (4) of the packaging material decrease to zero. The rotational speed of the compressor of the pressurizing device (43) decreases from the operating rotational speed to the reference rotational speed, and is particularly greater than zero. The method according to claim 14.

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