Agricultural product packaging material and method for agricultural product packaging material production

Abstract

The present invention relates to a material for packaging agricultural products, such as cotton, particularly in the form of cylindrical bales, by using automated agricultural machines and equipment of the self-powered baler type. More particularly, the present invention relates to a packaging material that comprises a single continuous film (1) composed of a plurality of packaging portions (2), which can be detached from one another via a break line (3), said packaging portion (2) being divided into an initial portion (2a) and a final portion (2b), and this latter portion is provided, on one of the surfaces thereof, with a layer of adhesive of non-permanent type 4. In parallel, the present invention also relates to a method for producing this agricultural product packaging material.

Description

"MATERIAL FOR PACKAGING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS IN A PRODUCTION METHOD OF A MATERIAL FOR PACKAGING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS"

[0001] The present invention relates, in general, to a new material for packaging agricultural products, such as cotton, hay, straw, and any other type of forage plant, which are particularly packaged in cylindrical bales through the use of automated agricultural machinery and equipment, such as self-propelled balers. These machines are capable of moving through the field harvesting and, at the same time, forming bales with the harvested material, which are then properly packaged for transport to processing centers. More specifically, the aforementioned material for packaging agricultural products was designed and developed to improve the working conditions of farmers, but mainly to obtain a practical, functional, and low-cost solution for application in agriculture.

[0002] Additionally, the present invention also relates to a method for producing this material for packaging agricultural products. FUNDAMENTALS OF THE INVENTION

[0003] As is generally known in the field, there are numerous ways to promote the packaging of agricultural products, such as cotton, hay, straw, and forage, which are typically harvested and bundled into bales to facilitate transport and processing outside the field. To this end, it is known that there is a wide variety of materials that can be used for baling these products, configured and selected according to the characteristics and properties of the crop being harvested and packaged. For example, materials made of nets, tarpaulins, and, in some cases, a combination of nets and tarpaulins, which are usually made of plastics such as polyethylene or polypropylene, are quite common.

[0004] According to the state of the art, with the development of numerous technologies applied in agriculture, it is known that there are various machines, equipment, and devices commonly used to improve crop conditions, but mainly seeking to increase productivity in the field, both at planting and harvesting time. In this context, some agricultural machines, also called harvesters, are known, which are self-propelled and capable of performing continuous harvesting without the need for prolonged stops, or even being removed from the field for, for example, emptying or transferring the harvested material to trailers and / or trucks responsible for transporting the materials to locations away from the field where they will be handled, processed, and / or treated.Some machines, currently known and available on the market, make short stops in the field merely to unload the cotton bales, for example, in the case of automated cotton harvesters.

[0005] Particularly in the case of cotton harvesting, without discarding hay, straw, and forage in general, the use of plastic tarpaulins to contain the harvested material is quite common. This is due to the need to keep the material grouped together and protected from the elements, as well as to facilitate transport from the field to the handling, processing, and treatment areas, which are usually located away from the planting and harvesting area. Furthermore, especially regarding cotton harvesting, the state of the art includes machines and equipment specifically designed and developed for harvesting this type of crop, considering the specificities and particularities that this type of plant requires, for example, the short duration of the harvest and the fragility of the material in the face of inclement weather.

[0006] These cotton harvesting machines are capable of conducting a continuous harvest of the entire crop without long interruptions. To achieve this, it is known that this type of machine has mechanisms that are able to harvest the... The machine collects the material in the field and simultaneously stores and packages it into individual bales. These bales are then spread out in the field and subsequently collected by a tractor or other appropriate equipment, and transported to the processing and handling areas. As can be seen, the bales generated by this type of machine optimize and consequently significantly increase harvest productivity levels, while also ensuring the integrity of the harvested material. This is because the tarpaulins used for these bales form plastic coverings that protect the harvested material from inclement weather while it is spread across the field.

[0007] It's worth remembering that this technology of baling with tarpaulins using automated machines has been able to promote substantial advantages and improvements in the field, but mainly it has managed to reduce the levels of occupational hazards for workers, for the workforce as a whole, since harvesting, especially cotton, has always been arduous and painful work, with workers frequently and easily injuring themselves or becoming ill, whether due to cuts on their hands, or due to weather conditions and long working hours in the field. Therefore, with the arrival of these technologies, and the ability to automate harvesting to some extent, it became possible not only to improve workers' conditions but also to significantly increase productivity and generate great benefits for society, if analyzed from the perspective of human development.

[0008] In this sense, although these materials perform their functions, it was found that there were opportunities to improve and refine the quality, resistance, and also simplify the production lines in order to eliminate flaws, problems, and inconveniences that occurred with the materials known in the state of the art for promoting baling in automated machines, especially cotton, which requires some special care, as mentioned above.

[0009] More specifically, most materials known in the state of the art reveal drawbacks related to production lines that, in a way, interfere with the particularities required to allow automation in the material separation stage for packaging and at the moment of closing the bale carried out within the aforementioned cotton harvesters or other products. This is because, as can be seen, the materials used to package cotton, hay, straw, and forage in automated machines are formed by segments of plastic tarpaulins interconnected by means of some adhesive element capable of keeping the segments interconnected and rolled into a reel, but which can be unrolled according to the demand required by the harvesting machine and, in the end, must allow the separation of the subsequent segment and, at the same time, ensure the closure of the bale before being dumped in the field to be collected later.

[0010] In this context, the manufacturing process of these plastic tarpaulins for baling agricultural products in automated machines requires an assembly and connection step of the segments that form a portion of packaging, followed by rolling up this sequence of individual packaging portions to obtain a roll that will be coupled and used, for example, in automated cotton harvesters. By way of example, documents BRPI 0307327-0, BRPI 051 1659-7, PCT / US201 5 / 022330, PCT / AU2014 / 000821 and IN201303409 disclose plastic tarpaulins formed by multiple segments fixed by means of bonding, thus obtaining a continuous film to be wound onto a reel, these bonding means being obtained by combining areas with and without adhesives which, in some cases, are folded to form a kind of protective layer that prevents the adhesive areas from sticking to the tarpaulin when the reels are obtained and, thus, allows the unwinding of the tarpaulin inside the machines.In other cases, a strip, tape, or other equivalent means is placed over the adhesive area to similarly prevent these areas from sticking to the canvas surfaces when it is being rolled up during the formation of the rolls.

[0011] As experts in the field should appreciate, these adhesive areas have proven to be relatively essential according to the knowledge and practices adopted to date, since, in the final stage of forming cotton bales inside the machines, the end of the individual packaging portion needed to be firmly and securely adhered to prevent the bales from opening when dumped in the field and, eventually, subjected to inclement weather, especially in the case of cotton, which is a material with a tendency to expand and, consequently, force the tarp in such a way as to cause it to tear and / or open.

[0012] Therefore, as can be seen, the process for manufacturing and assembling these reels is relatively complex, requiring, in some cases, steps that need a high level of precision to join the segments and portions of packaging, which logically reflects in high manufacturing costs and, consequently, affects the productivity and profitability of the harvests.

[0013] The issue of costs is even more problematic when one observes that this material used to package and form bales of agricultural products is usually discarded without providing any financial return to the farmer. This is because, due to the characteristics and properties of the materials used in the manufacture of these tarpaulins, it becomes practically impossible to reuse and / or reintroduce this material into the production chain of these raw materials. More specifically, the tarpaulins usually applied and known in the state of the art for packaging agricultural products in automated machines are materials composed of thermoplastic resins with very low recycling capacity, for example, from the combination of PET, polypropylene, PVC and, as an even more problematic factor, the use of acrylic-based glues, which is a highly polluting material for the environment and therefore requires special care to be handled and disposed of.

[0014] In this sense, the reuse or recycling of materials ends up being a rather complex and expensive process, as it requires the use of a great deal of technology. Water, solvents, and skilled labor are essential to avoid compromising the environment. Ultimately, these recycling processes result in a very poor quality material with very low value and limited practical uses in the market; in other words, there is a very restricted range of products that can be produced with this material.

[0015] For these reasons, the materials known in the state of the art end up being used only to group and facilitate the transport of the harvested material to the handling and processing locations, and cannot be reused in a new harvest or any other purpose that is effectively profitable for farmers.

[0016] Additionally, in some cases, certain models of materials for packaging agricultural products known in the state of the art presented a drawback related to the separation of packaging portions at the end of the baling process within the machines. In some cases, the cut made to separate the individual packaging portions lacks precision, and most often, this separation occurs by simply stretching the material until it breaks, resulting in a completely irregular end with stretched parts that end up loose and not adhered to the bale. These stretched and loose parts encourage the weakening of the bale as a whole, mainly due to the influence of rain and wind, which can help to spontaneously open or break the bale in the field, leading to the loss of part of the harvested material and, consequently, losses for the farmer.

[0017] As can be observed, these materials for packaging agricultural products in automated harvesting machines reveal problems, mainly at the final end of the packaging portion, whether due to the need for a complex configuration that requires the application of adhesives and protectors to the adhered areas, as well as the final configuration that effectively completes the baling process of the agricultural product to maintain the integrity of the harvested product at least until its transport to the handling and processing locations.

[0018] Thus, as can be seen, the solutions known in the state of the art for packaging material for agricultural products in automated harvesters, for example for harvesting cotton, hay, straw and forage in general, reveal problems, limitations and inconveniences related to everything from the complexity of processing on the production lines of the reels, to the moment of finalizing the bales inside the machines and exposure to inclement weather, including risks to the environment at the time of disposal of the packaging material.

[0019] Furthermore, from a more general point of view, it is understood that the technologies and solutions known in the state of the art for promoting the baling of agricultural materials in automated machines reveal cost problems, but also restrictions that affect the quality and integrity of the material harvested in the field, and may even lead to the loss and waste of materials in the field or during transport, since they cannot guarantee the secure closure of the bales.

[0020] Therefore, considering this scenario, these are, among others, the problems and inconveniences that the present invention aims to solve, or at least reduce.

[0021] Given the context described and discussed above, one of the objectives of the present invention is to provide a material for packaging agricultural products, such as cotton, hay, straw, and forage in general, and more particularly developed for use in automated harvesting machines capable of harvesting and baling the harvested material. The packaging material, according to the present invention, comprises technical, constructive, structural, and functional characteristics specifically designed and developed to effectively solve the problems, limitations, and inconveniences observed in the prior art, as discussed above.

[0022] Therefore, one of the objectives of the present invention is to provide a material for packaging agricultural products using automated harvesting machines that can substantially simplify production lines, thus obtaining a reel formed by individual packaging portions that can be applied to said automated machines, but mainly, is capable of performing the baling process of the harvested material and maintaining the integrity of the material regardless of the climatic conditions to which the bale is exposed while awaiting transport to the processing locations.More specifically, one of the objectives of the present invention is to provide a material that ensures the integrity and quality of the harvested material, but in addition, it makes it possible to reduce the loss rates of the harvested material while in the field or during transport, resulting in a substantial decrease in waste for farmers.

[0023] Furthermore, another objective of the present invention is to provide a material for packaging agricultural products whose configuration eliminates the need for applying permanent adhesives and, consequently, the requirement to have additional elements to protect the adhesive areas when forming the reels that will be inserted into automated harvesting machines.

[0024] Additionally, it is also an objective of the present invention to provide a material for packaging agricultural products that comprises constructive aspects that ensure ideal separation between individual packaging portions in the final stage of the baling process, as well as ensuring the secure closure of the bale in a way that reduces any risk of spontaneous opening of the bale due to rain or wind.

[0025] Therefore, one of the objectives of the present invention is to provide a material for packaging agricultural products inside an automated harvesting machine that has properties that improve and increase the level of protection of the harvested and baled material, whether in relation to the mechanical properties involving the Structural aspects to support the grouped material, as well as physical properties related to protection against rain, sun, dirt, dust, etc.

[0026] The packaging material for agricultural products, the subject of this invention, also aims to provide a product that can be easily recycled and reused for other purposes, thereby eliminating environmental problems resulting from inappropriate and unsuitable disposal after use. More specifically, according to a particularity of the present invention, the packaging material is produced with completely non-toxic materials that are easy to recycle, for example, polyethylene-based. This allows for a high capacity for reintegration of the material into the production chain, considering that this material, after disposal, can still be used in a multitude of applications and technological fields, such as the production of rigid parts in the automotive sector and household utensils, hoses, and other films applicable in agriculture or civil construction.

[0027] More specifically, one of the objectives of the present invention is to provide a material for packaging agricultural products whose characteristics and properties eliminate the need for separation and / or chemical treatments or additives to enable recycling, and which can even be handled without risk to workers and the environment because it does not carry any toxic residue, including the type of non-permanent adhesive used, which is water-based and therefore easily and quickly absorbed by the polyethylene without causing any damage to the environment.

[0028] It is worth highlighting that, according to this embodiment of the present invention, when produced with these non-toxic materials, it becomes possible to generate benefits in logistics and product valuation in negotiations. This is because it is capable of enabling the immediate implementation of a program for collecting and reusing the material by film manufacturers to improve the logistics of storing and dispensing this material on farms, that is, providing Reverse logistics, as it's called, translates into social, cultural, and environmental benefits.

[0029] In summary, the packaging material for agricultural products, which is the subject of this invention, was designed and developed to, among other things, fully meet the cycle of use and disposal of the raw material, allowing its reintegration into the production lines of numerous technological sectors, including agriculture itself.

[0030] It is also one of the objectives of the present invention to provide a method for manufacturing said material for packaging agricultural products, which comprises steps designed and developed to simplify, but mainly to reduce the costs involved, while maintaining the properties required to meet the needs and particularities of automated harvesting machines commonly known and used in agriculture, particularly for harvesting cotton, hay, straw and forage.

[0031] Thus, in order to obtain the objectives, improvements and technical and functional effects indicated above, among others, the present invention comprises a single, continuous film composed of a plurality of packaging portions, which are detachable from each other through a rupture line, said packaging portion being divided into an initial portion and a final portion, the latter portion being provided with a layer of non-permanent adhesive on one of its surfaces.

[0032] According to one embodiment of the material for packaging agricultural products, which is the subject of the present invention, said rupture line comprises a “V” configuration, wherein said rupture lines are arranged diagonally and extend from the center of the free end of the initial portion of the packaging portion towards the lateral edges of said single, continuous film. More particularly, according to a particular embodiment of the present invention, the said diagonal break lines form an angle (a) with an imaginary transverse line (y) that can vary between 0 Q and 70 Q , and even more specifically on the order of 30 Q .

[0033] According to possible embodiments of the present invention, said material for packaging agricultural products may comprise rupture lines whose configuration may be straight trapezoidal, wavy, arched, serrated, transverse blocks, elliptical, circular.

[0034] Furthermore, according to another particular embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned material for packaging agricultural products may comprise, along the rupture lines, reinforcing portions consisting of non-fragile segments, intended to ensure the integrity of the material along the production lines, thus allowing the rupture and separation of the packaging portions only at opportune moments and during harvesting processes in the field.

[0035] According to one embodiment of the present invention, said single, continuous film comprises, in the region of the rupture line, a narrowing in at least one of its lateral edges. Preferably, the single, continuous film comprises, in the region of the rupture line, a narrowing in both lateral edges. Furthermore, according to a more particular embodiment of the present invention, this narrowing is formed by the combination of an angular narrowing and a complementary segment that provides conditions that ultimately direct and condition the distinction between the portions of packaging in said rupture line.

[0036] Also, according to another embodiment of the present invention, the single, continuous film is a multi-layered plastic film with protection against ultraviolet rays, impermeability, and pigments, such as elements provided with properties and characteristics of barriers against environmental and climatic interferences, such as moisture, water, solids, and oxygen.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the material for packaging agricultural products, which is the subject of the present invention, the initial portion represents between 5% and 95% of the total length of the packaging portion, and the final portion represents between 5% and 95% of the total length of the packaging portion. Additionally, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the initial portion represents 50% of the total length of the packaging portion, and the final portion represents 50% of the total length of the packaging portion.

[0038] According to a particularly advantageous embodiment intended for baling cotton and other forages, the initial portion represents 45% of the total length of the baling portion, and the final portion represents 55% of the total length of the baling portion. Furthermore, according to another embodiment of the present invention, the total length of the baling portion comprises approximately 22 meters, and in this case, the initial portion is approximately 10 meters and the final portion approximately 12 meters.

[0039] Additionally, according to another particularly advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the rupture line is formed by points of embrittlement, points of pre-rupture and / or points of weakening. Alternatively, this rupture line is obtained through laser tools, hot or cold metal knives, serrated cutting knives, straight cutting knives, pyramidal cutting knives, triangular cutting knives or, also, as laser micro-perforations or surface embrittlement.

[0040] According to a further embodiment of the present invention, each packaging portion of said single continuous film comprises at least one signaling means, which may be a photocell, an ink-based indication, a metallic paint, a metallic element, a marking, a demarcation, a barcode, or a perforated code.

[0041] Optionally, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, especially intended to increase harvest safety levels, The packaging portion comprises at least one identifying means, which may be, for example, radio frequency identification (RFID) labels / tags.

[0042] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the single, continuous plastic film that forms the packaging portion is polyethylene-based, and the aforementioned non-permanent adhesive layer is a water-based adhesive, which allows for more appropriate recycling and less risk of disposing of materials that could contaminate the environment.

[0043] Also, according to another optional embodiment of the present invention, said packaging portion may comprise at least one release reinforcement formed by labels applied to each initial portion of the packaging portion, such reinforcements being arranged longitudinally or transversely in relation to the length of the single continuous film.

[0044] Also, in another optional embodiment of the present invention, the end of the final portion may be provided with at least one sealing adhesive capable of keeping the material properly packaged in the field.

[0045] Additionally, as mentioned above, the present invention also relates to a method for producing a material for packaging agricultural products, which basically comprises the following steps: a) To produce a continuous plastic film, through the formulation of the raw material and preparation of the film extruder; b) producing said continuous plastic film in jumbo-type rolls, which are subjected to inspection for packaging and identification; c) storing these jumbo-type rolls so that they can be applied in the production line of the single, continuous plastic film of the present invention, and is comprised of the following steps: c.1) unwind the aforementioned jumbo-type coil; c.2) Position and apply the signaling device, such as a metallic label; c.3) the aforementioned continuous plastic film has a rupture line, which is responsible for projecting portions of packaging, said rupture line being located between the end portion of one packaging portion and the beginning portion of the subsequent packaging portion formed by said continuous plastic film; c.4) intermittent application of a layer of non-permanent adhesive to one of the surfaces of the continuous plastic film, forming an initial portion without adhesive and a final portion containing said non-permanent adhesive; c.5) subject the continuous plastic film to a drying and absorption process of the non-permanent type adhesive in an oven; c.6) wind said continuous plastic film onto a reel to be fed into an automated harvesting machine; d) inspection of the reels of continuous plastic film to be packaged and identified; e) store the aforementioned roll of continuous plastic film.

[0046] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, during said step (c.4) the proportion between the initial and final portions are equivalent and comprise, respectively, 50% of the total length of a packaging portion. Alternatively, according to another possible embodiment of the present invention, the final portion, whose surface is coated with a layer of non-permanent adhesive, represents between 5% and 95% of the total length of the packaging portion. Also, according to a preferentially advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the initial portion represents about 45% of the total length of the packaging portion, and the final portion represents about 55% of the total length of the packaging portion. Furthermore, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the total length of the packaging portion comprises about 22 meters and, in this In this case, the initial portion comprises approximately 10 meters and the final portion is approximately 12 meters.

[0047] Additionally, according to a further embodiment of the present invention, step (c. 3) is conducted through a process of forming embrittlement points, pre-rupture points and / or weakening points. Optionally, in this step (c.3), the rupture line is obtained through laser tools, with hot or cold metal knives, serrated cutting knives, straight cutting knives, pyramidal cutting knives, triangular cutting knives, with laser micro-perforations or surface embrittlement.

[0048] According to a particular and advantageous embodiment of the method of the present invention, during said step (c.3), the rupture line that is formed in said continuous plastic film comprises a “V” configuration, which is formed by the arrangement of said rupture lines diagonally, such that they extend from the center of the free end of the initial portion of the packaging portion towards the lateral edges of said single continuous film. More particularly, according to a specific embodiment of the present invention, these diagonally formed rupture lines are obtained by considering an angle (a) with the imaginary transverse line (y) that can vary between 0 Q and 70 Q , and more advantageously this angle (a) is on the order of 30 Q .

[0049] Furthermore, according to yet another possible embodiment of the present invention, during step (c. 3) the rupture lines can be formed with configurations such as straight trapezoidal, wavy, arc, serrated, transverse blocks, elliptical, circular.

[0050] According to another embodiment of the method of the present invention, during said step (c. 3) it is possible to foresee the formation of reinforcing portions, which are constituted by non-weakened segments along said rupture lines.

[0051] Also, according to an alternative embodiment of the method of the present invention, an optional step (c.2.a) is provided responsible for forming a trimming of at least one edge of the continuous plastic film in order to obtain and form a narrowing in the region of the rupture line between the portions of individual packages. More particularly, according to an embodiment of the present invention, during this step (c.2.1) this trimming forms a narrowing that is configured through the combination of an angular narrowing and a complementary segment.

[0052] More specifically, according to other embodiments of the present invention, during step (c.2) the signaling means can be a photocell, an ink-based indication, a metallic paint, a metallic element, a marking, a demarcation, a barcode or a perforated code.

[0053] Furthermore, according to another optional embodiment of the method of the present invention, after step (c.5), the continuous plastic film is subjected to a step of inclusion of at least one identifying means, for example radio frequency labels / tags - RFl Ds.

[0054] According to another optional embodiment of the method of the present invention, it is possible to include a step of applying at least one release reinforcement to the packaging portion, such reinforcement being a label applied adjacent to the edge of each initial portion and arranged transversely or longitudinally in relation to the extent of the single, continuous film. DESCRIPTION OF THE DOG SUMMARY OF THE DRAWINGS

[0055] The characteristics, advantages, and technical effects of the present invention, as highlighted above, will be better understood and more adequately understood by a person skilled in the art from the following detailed description, given merely as an example and not as a limitation of preferred embodiments, and with reference to the attached schematic figures, which:

[0056] Figure 1 shows a top perspective view of a coil of material for packaging agricultural products, according to a first embodiment of the present invention, partially unrolled;

[0057] Figure 2 shows a top perspective view of a coil of agricultural packaging material, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, partially unrolled;

[0058] Figure 3 shows a side view of an embodiment of the material for packaging agricultural products, which is the subject of the present invention;

[0059] Figure 4A shows a top view of another optional embodiment of the weakening region between the individual package portions, according to the present invention;

[0060] Figure 4B shows a top view of another optional embodiment of the weakening region between the portions of individual packages, according to the present invention;

[0061] Figures 5A and 5B show top views of other alternative embodiments of the material for packaging agricultural products, according to the present invention;

[0062] Figure 6A schematically represents a production line for a material used to package agricultural products, according to the present invention;

[0063] Figure 6B shows a block diagram / flowchart of the main steps of the method for producing the packaging material for agricultural products, according to the present invention.

[0064] According to the above, some examples of particular and possible embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail below; however, it is important to emphasize that this is a merely illustrative and not restrictive description, since the material for packaging agricultural products, as well as the method associated with it, may present different details. and technical and constructional characteristics without thereby affecting the scope of protection defined by the attached claims.

[0065] In this context, it is worth reiterating that the following description will be made with reference to the attached figures, which are schematic and only seek to exemplify and facilitate the interpretation and understanding of the present invention. Thus, it is important to emphasize that the dimensions and / or proportions may not reflect reality, as they only seek to present the invention in the most didactic way possible. Furthermore, some known and common details may have been omitted to improve the clarity and conciseness of this description.

[0066] Therefore, given the scenario presented above, and particularly as represented by the attached figures, the material for packaging agricultural products is designed and developed to be used especially in automated agricultural machines, such as cotton, hay, straw, and forage plant harvesters in general. These machines are capable of harvesting in the field and also packaging the harvested material into bales that are sequentially dumped in the field so that another machine or equipment can collect and transport these bales to the processing locations.

[0067] Thus, it can be said that the aforementioned material for packaging agricultural products is formed by a single, continuous film 1 which is composed of a plurality of packaging portions 2, detachable from each other through a rupture line 3, wherein said packaging portion 2 is divided into an initial portion 2a and a final portion 2b, the latter having one of its surfaces coated with a layer of non-permanent adhesive 4.

[0068] According to one embodiment of the material for packaging agricultural products, the subject of the present invention, and as represented in Figure 1, this rupture line 3 comprises a “V” configuration, that is, it is formed by the arrangement of diagonal rupture lines extending from the center of the free end of the initial portion 2a towards the lateral edges 2c of said single and continuous film 1.

[0069] More specifically, according to one embodiment of the present invention, these diagonal break lines form an angle (a) with the imaginary transverse line (y) that can vary between 0 Q and 70 Q , wherein, according to a more specific realization, this angle (a) is on the order of 30 Q .

[0070] According to a particularity of this first embodiment, it is worth highlighting that the end of the final portion 2b forms a fishtail-type configuration that corresponds to the “V” configuration of the end of the initial portion 2a and, in this way, it is reiterated that the material for packaging agricultural products of the present invention comprises a single and continuous film 1 that does not have any type of joint or joining of packaging portions 2 and, therefore, is quite different from the materials known in the state of the art.

[0071] According to an alternative and optional embodiment of the present invention, and in particular, but not limited to this situation, in the case of the embodiment in which said rupture lines are arranged at an angle (a) equal to zero, that is, the rupture lines 3 comprise a straight configuration extending between the lateral edges 2c, said single continuous film 1 may comprise, in the region of this rupture line 3, a narrowing 5 in at least one of its lateral edges 2c and, preferably, in both lateral edges 2c. The purpose of this narrowing 5 is to promote the conditioning and direction of the rupture of the single continuous film 1 so as to guide the separation of the packaging portions 2 with a low risk of forming burrs when separating the portions and closing the bale.Furthermore, this narrowing 5 may eventually aid in adhesion conditions during the final stage of baling and forming, so as to ensure that the bale is firmly locked.

[0072] According to another alternative embodiment of the present invention, and as represented in Figure 4A, this narrowing 5 can be formed by The combination of an angular narrowing 5a and a complementary segment 5b helps to condition and direct the rupture, and also forms a configuration that can improve adhesion conditions in the final stage of packing and bale formation.

[0073] As those skilled in the art should appreciate, although Figures 2 and 4A illustrate representations in which the break lines 3 are relatively straight in cases where there is said narrowing 5, it is possible to foresee combined embodiments without any prejudice to the scope of protection now claimed, allowing, in this sense, that said break lines 3 be, for example, arranged diagonally in embodiments where said single and continuous film 1 has narrowing 5 on its lateral edges 2c.

[0074] Particularly with regard to the representation in Figure 4B, it is possible to observe an embodiment of the present invention in which the embrittlement region comprises a trapezoidal rupture line 3, that is, a configuration similar to that represented in Figure 1, but with the "arrowhead" being formed by a straight segment. In short, optionally, it is possible to highlight that numerous configurations distinct from those revealed in the figures can be easily applied by a person skilled in the art, among which, it is possible to mention as examples: "V", trapezoidal, straight, wavy, arc, serrated, transverse blocks, elliptical, circular, etc.

[0075] Additionally, according to another possible embodiment of the present invention, and as exemplarily represented in Figure 4B, along said rupture lines 3 there may be reinforcement portions 3a, which are constituted by segments not weakened along the rupture line 3, the purpose of these reinforcement portions 3a being to ensure the integrity of the continuous single film 1 during the production process, but to provide the proper rupture of the line 3 and separation of the packaging portions at the opportune moment within the harvesting machines in the field.

[0076] Also, according to another embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned single and continuous film 1 is a multi-layered plastic film containing layers responsible for protection against ultraviolet rays, impermeability, and pigments to improve the internal conditions of the bale when exposed to heat, cold, and humidity. More particularly, the single and continuous film 1 is characterized by the presence of barriers against these environmental and climatic interferences, such as humidity, water, solids, oxygen, etc. As can be appreciated, the plastic film, according to the present invention, has the capacity to waterproof and barrier the agricultural product as if it were in packaging or wrapping capable of keeping the mass of harvested agricultural product cohesive, but mainly free from any contaminants that could depreciate the harvested material.

[0077] Another characteristic of the material for packaging agricultural products, according to the object of the present invention, is with respect to the proportion between the initial portion 2a and the final portion 2b, which may be equal, that is, each of said portions representing 50% of the total extent (x) of the packaging portion 2. Alternatively, said portions are 95% and 5%, or vice versa, that is, the final portion 2b, whose surface is coated with a layer of non-permanent adhesive 4, may represent between 5% and 95% of the total extent (x) of the packaging portion 2.

[0078] According to an embodiment particularly intended for baling cotton and other forages, the initial portion 2a represents about 45% of the total length (x) of the packaging portion 2, and said final portion 2b represents about 55% of the total length (x) of the packaging portion 2. Additionally, according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the total length (x) of the packaging portion 2 comprises about 22 meters, and in this case, the initial portion 2a comprises about 10 meters and the final portion 2b is approximately 12 meters.

[0079] Additionally, according to another particularly advantageous embodiment of the present invention, said rupture line 3, arranged between the packaging portions 2 of the single continuous film 1, comprises points of embrittlement, points of pre-rupture and / or points of weakening. Alternatively, this rupture line 3 can be obtained by means of laser tools, using hot or cold metal knives, serrated cutting knives, straight cutting knives, pyramidal cutting knives, triangular cutting knives, as well as laser micro-perforations, surface embrittlement or any other equivalent means.

[0080] According to a possible embodiment of the present invention, each packaging portion 2 of the single continuous film 1 comprises at least one signaling means 6 responsible for promoting some type of interaction with the internal mechanisms of automated machines, particularly to allow the proper unwinding of the reels, winding of the bales and rupture of said packaging portions 2 exactly at the rupture line 3. More preferably, according to constructive variants of the present invention, said signaling means 6 may be a photocell, an ink-based indication, a metallic paint, a metallic element, a marking, a demarcation, a barcode, a perforated code, or any other element capable of indicating the length of said unwound packaging portion 2 within the machine.

[0081] Optionally, and in a further embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned packaging portion 2 comprises at least one identification means 7 whose purpose is to provide geographical identification of the bales in the field when they are unloaded by automated machines and await collection for transport to processing locations. These identification means can significantly assist the logistics of fieldwork, ensuring that all bales generated in the field by automated machines have been properly collected and transported to the processing units, thus preventing theft, pilferage, diversion, and loss of the agricultural product. For example, these identification methods can be radio frequency identification (RFID) tags, such as RFID tags, or any other technology capable of promoting this geographic identification and monitoring of the bales.

[0082] According to one embodiment of the present invention, said single continuous plastic film 1 that forms the packaging portion 2 is polyethylene-based and said non-permanent adhesive layer 4 is a water-based adhesive.

[0083] According to another possible and alternative embodiment of the present invention, said packaging portion 2 comprises at least one launching reinforcement 8 whose purpose is to provide better conditions for the start of the process of packaging agricultural products in machines, and more specifically to promote a reinforcement in the initial shaping of the bales. More preferably, this launching reinforcement 8 is a label that can be applied to the initial portion 2a of each packaging portion 2. It is worth mentioning that this launching reinforcement 8 improves the working conditions of the agricultural machine, to ensure that the initial packaging portion 2a is pulled and guided properly and safely by the internal rollers of the machine and, in this way, guaranteeing the initial shaping of the bale in a more appropriate and safe condition.According to alternative variants of this embodiment, the aforementioned launch reinforcement 8 may be labels arranged transversely or longitudinally in relation to the length of the single, continuous film 1.

[0084] Also, as a purely optional aspect of the present invention, the aforementioned single and continuous plastic film 1, more particularly at the end of the final portion 2b, may comprise a sealing adhesive responsible for securing the bale with the harvested agricultural product.

[0085] Additionally, as mentioned above, the present invention also relates to a method for producing a material for packaging agricultural products, which basically comprises the following steps: a) to produce a continuous plastic film 1, through the formulation of the raw material and preparation of the film extruder; b) produce said continuous plastic film in 1 10 jumbo rolls, which is subjected to inspection before being packaged and identified; c) storage of said jumbo-type reel 1 1 0 so that it can be applied in the production line of the single continuous plastic film 1, which comprises the following steps: c.1) unwind the aforementioned jumbo type coil 1 10; c.2) Position and apply the signaling medium 6, such as a metallic label; c.3) said continuous plastic film 1 receives a rupture line 3, which is responsible for projecting packaging portions 2, said rupture line 3 being disposed between said final portion 2b of a packaging portion 2 and the initial portion 2a of the subsequent packaging portion 2 formed by said continuous plastic film 1; c.4) intermittent application of a layer of non-permanent type adhesive 4 to one of the surfaces of the continuous plastic film 1, forming an initial portion 2a without adhesive and a final portion 2b containing said non-permanent type adhesive 4; c.5) subject the continuous plastic film to a drying and absorption process of the non-permanent type 4 adhesive in an oven; c.6) winding said continuous plastic film 1 onto a reel 120 to be fed into an automated harvesting machine; d) inspection of the reels 120 of continuous plastic film 1 to be packaged and identified; (e) store the aforementioned 1 20 roll of continuous plastic film 1.

[0086] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, in said step (c.4) the ratio between the initial portion 2a and the final portion 2b are equivalent and They comprise, respectively, 50% of the total length (x) of a packaging portion 2. Alternatively, according to another possible embodiment of the present invention, said final portion 2b, whose surface is coated with a layer of non-permanent adhesive 4, represents between 5% and 95% of the total length (x) of the packaging portion 2. Also, according to a preferentially advantageous embodiment of the present invention, especially for application in cotton harvesting machines, the initial portion 2a represents about 45% of the total length (x) of the packaging portion 2, and said final portion 2b represents about 55% of the total length (x) of the packaging portion 2. Furthermore, according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the total length (x) of the packaging portion 2 comprises about 22 meters and, in this case, the initial portion 2a comprises about 10 meters and the final portion 2b is approximately 12 meters.

[0087] Additionally, according to another possible embodiment of the present invention, said step (c.3) related to obtaining the rupture line 3 is conducted through a process for forming points of embrittlement, pre-rupture points and / or points of weakening. This rupture line 3 is obtained, optionally, through laser tools, using hot or cold metal knives, serrated cutting knives, straight cutting knives, pyramidal cutting knives, triangular cutting knives, as well as laser micro-perforations, surface embrittlement or any other equivalent means that allows the separation of said portions of packaging 2.

[0088] According to a particular embodiment of the present method for producing a material for packaging agricultural products, during said step (c.3), said rupture line 3 is formed in such a way as to provide a “V” configuration, that is, it is formed by the arrangement of diagonal rupture lines 3 that extend from the center of the free end of the initial portion 2a towards the lateral edges 2c of said single and continuous film 1. According to a A possible embodiment of the method of the present invention, these diagonal break lines 3 are obtained by considering an angle (a) with the imaginary transverse line (y) that can vary between 0 Q and 70 Q , wherein, according to a more specific realization, this angle (a) is on the order of 30 Q .

[0089] Optionally, according to another embodiment of the method of the present invention, during the aforementioned step (c.3), the rupture line 3 is formed in such a way as to provide a trapezoidal configuration, that is, a configuration similar to that represented in Figure 1, but with the “arrowhead” being formed by a straight segment. In summary, and optionally, it is possible to highlight that numerous configurations distinct from those revealed in the figures can be easily formed during the present method, among which, it is possible to mention as examples: “V” shape, trapezoidal, straight, wavy, arc, serrated, transverse blocks, elliptical, circular, etc.

[0090] Additionally, according to a variant of the method of the present invention, during the formation of the rupture line 3 in step (c.3), the formation of reinforcement portions 3a is foreseen, which are constituted by non-embrittled segments along the rupture line 3.

[0091] According to an alternative to the present method of producing a material for packaging agricultural products, between the aforementioned steps of applying the signaling medium 6 (c.2) and forming the rupture line 3 (c.3), it is possible to include a step (c.2.1) to provide the trimming of at least one of said lateral edges 2c to obtain and form a narrowing 5 in the region where said rupture lines 3 will be formed.

[0092] Also, according to another embodiment of the method of the present invention, in said step (c.2.1), the cut made for trimming said continuous plastic film 1 is made on both edges 2c in order to provide a configuration that assists in cutting and separating the portions of packaging 2. More particularly, according to an embodiment of the present invention, during step (c.2.1) said Refinement occurs in such a way as to form a narrowing 5 that is configured through the combination of an angular narrowing 5a and a complementary segment 5b to, in this way, help in directing the rupture and also forming a configuration that helps the adhesion conditions in the final phase of packaging and bale formation.

[0093] More specifically, according to some constructive variants of the present invention, during step (c.2) said signaling means 6 applied may be a photocell, an ink-based indication, a metallic paint, a metallic element, a marking, a demarcation, a barcode, a perforated code, or any other element capable of indicating the length of said unrolled packaging portion 2 within said machines.

[0094] Furthermore, according to another embodiment of the method of the present invention, after step (c.5), the aforementioned continuous plastic film 1 is subjected to a step of inclusion of at least one identifying means 7 whose purpose is to provide geographical identification of the bales in the field when they are dumped by automated machines and await collection for transport to processing locations. As mentioned above, these identifying means 7 assist the logistics of farmers' work, ensuring that all bales generated by automated machines have been properly collected and transported to processing units, thereby preventing theft, pilferage, diversion and loss of the agricultural product. By way of example, these identifying means 7 can be radio frequency identification labels / tags, such as the so-called RFIDs, or any other technology capable of promoting this geographical identification and monitoring of the bales.

[0095] Additionally, according to an optional embodiment of the method of the present invention, it is possible to include a step for applying at least one launch reinforcement 8 to the packaging portion, wherein this reinforcement 8 is a label preferably applied adjacent to the edge of the initial portion 2a. According to alternative variants of this step, this release reinforcement 8 may be labels arranged transversely or longitudinally in relation to the extent of the single continuous film 1.

[0096] Finally, in light of all the above, it is important to clarify that the purpose of this description is solely to define, by way of example, preferred embodiments of the material for packaging agricultural products developed for application in automated harvesting machines, as well as the methods related to the manufacture of said material and packaging using this packaging material, according to the present invention. Therefore, as those skilled in the art understand, numerous modifications, variations, and constructive combinations of the elements that perform the same function substantially in the same way to achieve the same results are possible, and these should be included within the scope of protection delimited by the appended claims.

Claims

KING VI NDI CACÕES 1. MATERIAL FOR PACKAGING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS, characterized by comprising a single continuous film (1) which is composed of a plurality of packaging portions (2), which are detachable from each other by means of a rupture line (3), wherein said packaging portion (2) is divided into an initial portion (2a) and a final portion (2b), and the latter portion being provided with a layer of non-permanent type adhesive (4) on one of its surfaces.

2. MATERIAL FOR PACKAGING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS, according to claim 1, characterized in that said rupture line (3) comprises a “V” configuration, wherein said rupture lines (3) are arranged diagonally and extend from the center of the free end of said initial portion (2a) towards the lateral edges (2c) of said single continuous film (1).

3. MATERIAL FOR PACKAGING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS, according to claim 2, characterized in that said diagonal break lines (3) form an angle (a) with an imaginary transverse line (y) that varies between 0 Q and 70 Q , being more specifically 30 Q .

4. MATERIAL FOR PACKAGING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS, according to claim 1, characterized in that said rupture line (3) comprises a trapezoidal, straight, wavy, arched, serrated, transverse blocks, elliptical, circular shape.

5. MATERIAL FOR PACKAGING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS, according to claim 1, characterized in that along said rupture lines (3) there are arranged reinforcement portions (3a) which are constituted by non-weakened segments.

6. MATERIAL FOR PACKAGING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS, according to claim 1, characterized in that said single and continuous film (1) comprises, in the region of said break line (3), a narrowing (5) of at least minus one of its lateral edges (2c).

7. MATERIAL FOR PACKAGING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS, according to claim 1, characterized in that said single and continuous film (1) comprises, in the region of said break line (3), a narrowing (5) on both lateral edges (2c).

8. MATERIAL FOR PACKAGING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS, according to claim 6, characterized in that said narrowing (5) is formed by the combination of an angular narrowing (5a) and a complementary segment (5b).

9. MATERIAL FOR PACKAGING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS, according to claim 1, characterized in that said single and continuous film (1) is a multi-layered plastic film with protection against ultraviolet rays, impermeability and with pigments, such as elements with barrier characteristics against environmental and climatic interferences, such as moisture, water, solids and oxygen.

10. MATERIAL FOR PACKAGING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS, according to claim 1, characterized in that the initial portion (2a) represents between 5% - 95% of the total length (x) of the packaging portion (2) and the final portion (2b) represents between 5% - 95% of the total length (x) of the packaging portion (2). 1 1. MATERIAL FOR PACKAGING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS, according to claim 1, characterized in that the initial portion (2a) represents 50% of the total length (x) of the packaging portion (2) and the final portion (2b) represents between 50% of the total length (x) of the packaging portion (2).

12. MATERIAL FOR PACKAGING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS, according to claim 1, characterized in that the initial portion (2a) represents 45% of the total length (x) of the packaging portion (2) and the final portion (2b) represents between 55% of the total length (x) of the packaging portion (2).

13. MATERIAL FOR PACKAGING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS, in accordance with Claim 1, characterized in that the total length (x) of the packaging portion (2) comprises approximately 22 meters and, in this case, the initial portion (2a) comprises approximately 10 meters and the final portion (2b) is approximately 12 meters.

14. MATERIAL FOR PACKAGING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS, according to claim 1, characterized in that said rupture line (3) is formed by points of fragility, points of pre-rupture and / or points of weakening.

15. MATERIAL FOR PACKAGING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS, according to claim 14, characterized in that said rupture line (3) is obtained by means of laser tools, hot or cold metal knives, serrated cutting knives, straight cutting knives, pyramidal cutting knives, triangular cutting knives, or even by laser micro-perforations or surface embrittlement.

16. MATERIAL FOR PACKAGING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS, according to claim 1, characterized in that each packaging portion (2) of said single continuous film (1) comprises at least one signaling means (6), which may be a photocell, an ink-based indication, a metallic paint, a metallic element, a marking, a demarcation, a barcode, a perforated code.

17. MATERIAL FOR PACKAGING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS, according to claim 1, characterized in that said packaging portion (2) comprises at least one identifying means (7), such as radio frequency identification (RFID) labels / tags.

18. MATERIAL FOR PACKAGING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS, according to claim 1, characterized in that said single continuous plastic film (1) forming the packaging portion (2) is based on polyethylene, and said non-permanent type adhesive layer (4) is a water-based adhesive.

19. MATERIAL FOR PACKAGING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS, according to claim 1, characterized in that said packaging portion (2) comprises at least one launch reinforcement (8) which is formed by labels applied to each initial portion (2a) longitudinally or transversely in relation to the length of the single continuous film (1).

20. MATERIAL FOR PACKAGING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS, according to claim 1, characterized in that the end of the final portion (2b) comprises a sealing adhesive.

21. A METHOD FOR PRODUCING A MATERIAL FOR PACKAGING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS, characterized by comprising the following steps: a) produce a continuous plastic film ( 1 ), through the formulation of the raw material and preparation of the film extruder; b) produce said continuous plastic film in rolls (1 10), of jumbo type, which is subjected to an inspection to be packaged and identified; c) storage of said jumbo type reel (1 10) so that it can be applied in the production line of the single continuous plastic film (1) which comprises the following steps: c.1 ) unwind the said jumbo type coil (1 10); c.2) position and apply the signaling medium (6), such as a metallized label; c.3) said continuous plastic film (1) receives a rupture line (3), which is responsible for projecting packaging portions (2), said rupture line (3) being disposed between said final portion (2b) of a packaging portion (2) and the initial portion (2a) of the subsequent packaging portion 2 formed by said continuous plastic film (1); c.4) intermittent application of a layer of non-permanent type adhesive (4) on one of the surfaces of the continuous plastic film (1), forming an initial portion (2a) without adhesive and a final portion (2b) containing said non-permanent type adhesive (4); c.5) subject the continuous plastic film to a drying and absorption process of the non-permanent type adhesive (4) in an oven; c.6) wind said continuous plastic film (1) onto a reel (120) to be introduced into an automated harvesting machine; d) inspection of the reels (120) of continuous plastic film (1) to be packaged and identified; e) store the said roll (120) of continuous plastic film (1).

22. METHOD, according to claim 21, characterized in that during said step (c.4) the proportion between the initial (2a) and final (2b) portions are equivalent and comprise, respectively, 50% of the total length (x) of a packaging portion (2).

23. METHOD, according to claim 21, characterized in that said final portion (2b), whose surface is coated with a layer of non-permanent type adhesive (4), represents between 5% and 95% of the total length (x) of the packaging portion (2).

24. METHOD, according to claim 21, characterized in that said initial portion (2a) represents about 45% of the total length (x) of the packaging portion (2), and said final portion (2b) represents about 55% of the total length (x) of the packaging portion (2).

25. METHOD, according to claim 24, characterized in that said total length (x) of the packaging portion (2) comprises approximately 22 meters and, in this case, the initial portion (2a) comprises approximately 10 meters and the final portion (2b) is approximately 12 meters.

26. METHOD, according to claim 21, characterized in that said step (c.3) is conducted through a process of forming points of fragility, pre-rupture points and / or points of weakening.

27. METHOD, according to claim 21, characterized by the fact that during said stage (c.3), the rupture line (3) is obtained by means of laser tools, with hot or cold metal knives, serrated cutting knives, straight cutting knives, pyramidal cutting knives, triangular cutting knives, with laser micro-perforations or surface embrittlement.

28. METHOD, according to claim 21, characterized in that in said step (c.3), the rupture line (3) comprises a “V” configuration, being formed by the arrangement of diagonal rupture lines (3) extending from the center of the free end of the initial portion (2a) towards the lateral edges (2c) of said single continuous film (1).

29. METHOD, according to claim 28, characterized in that said diagonal break lines (3) are obtained by considering an angle (a) with the imaginary transverse line (y) that varies between 0 Q and 70 Q , and more particularly this angle (a) is on the order of 30 Q .

30. METHOD, according to claim 21, characterized in that in said step (c.3), the rupture line (3) is formed so as to provide a straight, wavy, arc, serrated, cross-block, elliptical, circular configuration.

31. METHOD, according to claim 21, characterized in that during said step (c.3), the formation of reinforcement portions (3a) is foreseen, which are constituted by segments not weakened along the rupture line (3).

32. METHOD, according to claim 21, characterized in that it further comprises a step (c.2.1) for forming a trim of at least one edge (2c) for obtaining and forming a narrowing (5) in the region of the rupture line (3) of the packaging portion (2).

33. METHOD, according to claim 32, characterized in that during said step (c.2.1) the trimming forms a narrowing (5) which is configured through the combination of an angular narrowing (5a) and a complementary segment (5b) .

34. METHOD, according to claim 21, characterized in that during said step (c.2) the signaling means (6) is a photocell, an ink-based indication, a metallic paint, a metallic element, a marking, a demarcation, a barcode or a perforated code.

35. METHOD, according to claim 21, characterized in that after step (c.5), said continuous plastic film (1) is subjected to a step of inclusion of at least one identifying means (7), such as radio frequency type labels / tags - RFl Ds.

36. METHOD, according to claim 21, characterized in that it further comprises a step of applying at least one release reinforcement (8) onto the packaging portion (2), wherein said reinforcement (8) is a label applied adjacent to the edge of each initial portion (2a) and arranged transversely or longitudinally in relation to the length of said single continuous film (1).

Images