Vertical packaging machine, cutting assembly for a vertical packaging machine and a method for changing a forming set on a vertical packaging machine

Abstract

A vertical packaging machine (1) comprising a frame (11), a film supply arrangement (2), a forming set (3), and a cutting and sealing assembly (6, 7), wherein the film supply arrangement is configured for supplying a flat film to the forming set; wherein the forming set comprises at least a forming shoulder (31) arranged to form the flat film into a film-tube; and wherein the cutting and sealing assembly (6,7) is configured to form and separate the pre-formed film tube into individual packages. The vertical packaging machine comprises cutting means (23) for cutting the flat film along a cross machine direction at a position between the film supply arrangement (2) and the forming set (3) Preferably the film is cut upon rotation of a support arrangement supporting the forming set, when a forming set needs to be replaced.

Description

Vertical packaging machine, cutting assembly for a vertical packaging machine and a method for changing a forming set on a vertical packaging machineTechnical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a packaging machine, in particular a vertical packaging machine, a cutting assembly for a vertical packaging machine, and a method for replacing a forming set on the packaging machine.Background Art

[0002] Vertical packaging machines, such as vertical form fill seal packaging machines, are suitable for packaging products vertically. Such machines are configured to package loose products of small size, granular or powder products into plastic bags or sacks of different shapes and using different types of film or combinations of film and other materials. Conventional packaging machines may for instance be configured to package a large variety of different food products such as potatoes, fruits, and / or vegetables in any processed or unprocessed form.

[0003] Known vertical packaging machines comprise a film supply arrangement, a forming tube that is arranged substantially vertical and comprises a forming shoulder around which a supplied single or multilayer flat film can be wrapped to form a film-tube; longitudinal sealing means for sealing the longitudinal edges of the film-tube together; cross-sealing means to cross-seal the film-tube and produce individual packages; and cutting means to separate the individual packages from each other and the film-tube. At an upper end of the forming tube, a hopper is typically arranged for insertion of the product to be packaged. The product to be packaged falls through the forming tube and into the pre-formed tubular film. Simultaneously, the cross-sealing means seal a bottom of the tubular film to form the package while the product falls into the bag that is thereby formed. At the same time, the cross-sealing means close the top of the previous packaging and the cutting means separate the produced packages. This provides an efficient method to package products.

[0004] Although a large variety of different packages may be produced using the same machine, the forming shoulder is usually specifically designed to form a package having certain dimensions or a particular shape. Consequently, the forming set, which comprises the forming shoulder, needs to be replaced for every different type and size of packaging that will be processed by the machine. Typically, a forming set comprises a mounting frame, the forming shoulder, a forming tube, and a forming funnel. The forming funnel provides the transition between the hopper and forming tube.

[0005] According to a known method for replacing the forming set, the operator manually cuts through a cross section of the film at a position before it is supplied to the forming shoulder. Typically this is done along an approximate cross-machine direction and at a position between the supply system and the forming shoulder. Here the cross-machine direction is used to refer to the direction of the width of the film, as opposed to the transport direction or machine direction extending along the length of the film.

[0006] After cutting the film, the operator may pull the film remains from the forming shoulder and after that, take the forming set out of the machine: the forming set is usually moved forwards (i.e., towards the operator) or laterally in a straight line from the machine. This extraction method is generally rather heavy to perform and therefore the operator needs to make use of the assistance of a colleague. Dependent on the accessibility of the forming set, also an external lifting aid may be used. Disadvantageously, this requires coordination, extra man hours and / or an additional lifting aid needs to be purchased, optionally installed on the machine, and maintained.

[0007] Patent document EP 2128028 B1 addresses the above problem and provides an improved forming shoulder mounting arrangement, wherein the forming shoulder is rotatably supported by a frame of the machine. As such, the support arrangement may be rotated away from to machine such that an easy access is provided to the forming shoulder, which may thereafter more easily be replaced.

[0008] It is an object of the invention to provide an improved packaging machine and / or forming set mounting arrangement that further simplifies the actions required by an operator when replacing the forming set or forming shoulder. It is further an object of the invention to improve the packaging machine in a different way.Summary of Invention

[0009] Therefore, according to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a vertical packaging machine comprising a frame, a film supply arrangement, a forming set, and a cutting and sealing assembly, wherein the film supply arrangement is configured for supplying a flat film to the forming set; wherein the forming set comprises at least a forming shoulder arranged to form the flat film into a film-tube; and wherein the cutting and sealing assembly is configured to form and separate the formed film-tube into individual packages. The vertical packaging machine further comprises cutting means for cutting the flat film along a cross machine direction, wherein the cutting means are provided at a position between the film supply arrangement and the forming set.

[0010] In this context, the term “cutting means” should be considered broadly as any means that can cut, slit, tear, or otherwise separate the flat film into two parts, for example an elongate knife extending along a cross-machine direction of the flat film. Here the machine direction of the film is used to indicate the transport direction of the film in the machine. The cross-machine direction is defined perpendicular to the transport or feed direction of the machine.

[0011] The cutting means may be stationary during the cutting process, e.g., brought into position wherein the film is cut by pulling the film or exerting a force on the film in a different way, or the cutting means may be movably mounted to a frame or other component of the packaging machine, for instance to the printer frame. Cutting means that are moveably mounted are configured to be moved from a first position to a second position during the cutting process, wherein the film is cut while the cutting means move from the first position to the second position. For example, cutting means that move along the cross-machine direction from a first longitudinaledge of the film (first position) to a second longitudinal edge of the film (second position) until the film has been cut across its full width.

[0012] Advantageously, cutting means are included in the vertical packaging machine according to the invention. Consequently, it is not needed for an operator to manually cut the flat film using a separate cutting device before changing a forming shoulder of the forming set, or when carrying out maintenance on the machine. This reduces the number of actions that an operator needs to perform and / or simplifies them, thereby reducing the time required for carrying out maintenance or for replacing a forming set. In addition, the position where the flat film can be cut in a conventional machine is usually difficult to access. It typically requires the operator to reach for it and / or assume a sometimes difficult posture or position. By providing cutting means that are integrated in the packaging machine, this problem may be overcome.

[0013] Further advantageous to the machine is that the cutting means may typically be arranged to provide a straight cut that is substantially parallel to a cross-machine direction. When an operator manually cuts a film, this is usually not the case because of the difficult accessibility to the cutting location. After the new forming set has been placed, the film needs to be re-introduced around the forming shoulder manually, before the machine can be restarted. Such re-introduction of the film may be easier when the cut is straight and extending in a direction substantially parallel to the cross machine direction.

[0014] In an embodiment, the cutting means are configured to extend along a full width of the flat film. Here the width of the flat film is defined as its length along a cross-machine direction. The cutting means can be arranged to cut the flat film over its full length when the film is placed under tension or moved with respect to the cutting means. Such movement may result from a traction force that varies along the cross-machine direction, for example by pulling the film near one of its longitudinal edges at a position close to the cutting means and gradually varying the position where the force applies, or by rotating the forming set with respect to a frame or other fixed components of the packaging machine.

[0015] In an embodiment, the vertical packaging machine further comprises a support arrangement moveably connected to the frame, wherein the support arrangement supports at least the forming set; and wherein the cutting means are connected to the frame and arranged to cut the flat film when the support arrangement is moved with respect to the frame.Advantageously, the flat film may be cut when the support arrangement is moved, for instance to replace the forming set. In addition, moving the support arrangement with the forming set with respect to the frame improves the accessibility of the forming set for replacement, allowing for instance the use of an external lifting device to replace the forming set.

[0016] In an embodiment, a cutting process may take place fully automatically without any intervention by the operator. By automatically cutting the flat film upon movement of the support arrangement, it is not needed for the operator to manually cut the film, or to activate a process that automatically cuts the film using the cutting means. This further simplifies the activities of the operator. Alternatively, in embodiments a security operation by the operator may be required. Forexample, the operator needs to press a button, switch a handle, or otherwise activate the cutting means.

[0017] In a further embodiment, the support arrangement is rotatably connected to the frame. By rotating the support arrangement with the forming set, the accessibility to the forming set for replacement is improved. In addition, when the support arrangement is rotated, the cutting means start cutting, slitting, tearing or ripping the flat film. Usually this process will start at a longitudinal edge of the flat film furthest away from the center of rotation of the rotary movement, wherein the cutting process continues during the movement of the support arrangement until the film portions are entirely separated. Typically, a rotation of the support arrangement over an angle of approximately 5 to 10 degrees with respect to a frame of the packaging machine is sufficient to separate the film. Nevertheless, the support arrangement is preferably rotated further to provide the operator with easy access to the forming shoulder and forming tube, e.g., a rotation of at least 45 degrees, preferably at least 60 degrees. Alternatively, or in addition, the support arrangement may be moved along a different path, for example a linear displacement followed by rotation, or an arc shaped path.

[0018] In an embodiment, the support arrangement is rotated no more than 90 degrees. Advantageously, a side of the packaging machine may be arranged adjacent to a wall or another machine without risking to not being able to fully open the machine.

[0019] According to an alternative embodiment, the cutting means are moveably connected with respect to the frame and moveable along a cross-machine direction of the frame to cut the film. For example, the cutting means may be connected to a drive belt or other drive means that is driven by a control motor to move its position. Advantageously, the film may be cut independently of a movement of the support arrangement. Hence it is possible to cut the film without needing to rotate or otherwise move away the support arrangement.

[0020] In an embodiment, the packaging machine further comprises a moveable magnet and the cutting means are configured to be actuated by a movement of the magnet. The cutting means may comprise a metal element or be connected thereto. By moving the magnet in the cross-machine direction, the cutting means are therefore also moved. It will be understood by the skilled person that movement of the magnet may be facilitated in several different ways. In an embodiment, a magnet may be provided in a closed cylinder extending approximately along the width of the film, wherein an air flow in a first direction is used to move the cutting means in the first direction. By reversing the air flow towards a second direction opposite to the first direction, the magnet may be moved back. This is a relatively cheap and space-efficient way of including moveable cutting means in the machine. Nevertheless, it will be understood by the skilled person that many other alternatives exist.

[0021] In yet alternative embodiments, there may be a handle for manually moving the cutting means from the first to the second position. Such a handle can be made to extend to a position wherein it is easily accessible to an operator.

[0022] In an embodiment, the vertical packaging machine further comprises a film retainer arranged in vicinity of the cutting means, preferably wherein the film retainer clamps the film. Thefilm retainer may hold the film and can be configured to hold a film end of the supply film portion after cutting the flat film. For example, the film end retainer may be formed by a clamping member or a plurality of guiding rolls that are arranged on opposite sides of the flat film and configured to clamp the flat film between the plurality of guiding rolls. Advantageously, since a film end is retained after the flat film is cut by the cutting means, the film end may be held at a predefined and typically easily accessible position, allowing the operator to quickly find the film end that needs to be (re-)introduced in the forming shoulder after replacing it. Here the term in “vicinity of the film” may be considered as at a distance of maximum 20 cm or maximum 40 cm. Such distance is typically measured in the machine direction or transport direction of the film. Alternatively, the “vicinity” may be considered as relative to a width of the film. For example, a distance of maximum 5% of a maximum film width, or maximum 10% of a maximum film width that can be processed by the packaging machine.

[0023] In an embodiment, the cutting means are retractable. Advantageously, the cutting means may be retracted to prevent accidental cutting of the film at unintended moments. Further advantageous is that they can be moved out of reach of an operator to prevent that the operator might accidentally hurt itself, for instance when reintroducing the film into the machine. In a further embodiment, the packaging machine comprises a button, handle or other activation means for an operator to retract the cutting means and / or to arrange them back in a position wherein the cutting means cannot cut the film.

[0024] In an embodiment, the cutting and sealing assembly comprises longitudinal sealing means configured for sealing longitudinal edges of the film-tube, cross-sealing means for crosssealing the film-tube and produce individual packages; and cross-cutting means for separating the individual packages from each other and the film-tube. These are conventional components on a vertical packaging machine. It will be understood, however, that vertical packaging machines may exist wherein some of these components are not present. In embodiments, the packaging machine may further comprise transportation means fortransporting the pre-formed tube from the forming shoulder and across the longitudinal sealing means. These means may be provided as a separate element or may be integrated within another element, for example in the cross-sealing means.

[0025] In an embodiment, an axis of rotation of the support arrangement extends substantially vertical. Advantageously, the support arrangement may be rotated away in such a way that the forming set, longitudinal sealing means, transportation means, and / or other components mounted to the support arrangement are provided at a conveniently accessible vertical level. The support arrangement may be rotated to bring these components away from the frame of the machine and into an environment wherein they are easily and safely accessible.

[0026] In a further embodiment, the support arrangement comprises a hinge portion engaged in a rotatable connection through a hinge receptacle on the frame or another fixed component on the packaging machine. Preferably, the hinge portion extends over a vertical height of at least 20 cm, preferably at least 30 cm. Here the term “fixed” component of the machine refers to anycomponent of the packaging machine with a fixed connection, directly or indirectly, to the frame of the packaging machine.

[0027] Advantageously, due to the vertical extent of the hinge portion, the support arrangement is not prone to tilt over an axis substantially perpendicular to the direction wherein the hinge element is tilted.

[0028] In an embodiment, the hinge portion is received between a first hinge receptacle and a a second hinge receptacle, wherein a ratio between the distance between the first and second receptacles in comparison to a maximum film width is at least 0.2, or at least 0.3. Advantageously, the support arrangement is supported over a relatively long distance, reducing the likelihood that the support arrangement would tilt with respect to the frame of the machine. Consequently, it is not needed to support the supporting frame at another side of the support arrangement away from the rotation axis. Nevertheless, it will be understood that it is not excluded that the support arrangement may also be supported elsewhere.

[0029] In an embodiment, the longitudinal sealing means are moveably, preferably rotatably, supported by the support arrangement. Advantageously, the longitudinal sealing means are easily accessible for maintenance. In addition, by moving the longitudinal sealing means away, the forming set may be more easily replaced and other components of the vertical packaging machine such a film transporting means on the machine may also more easily be accessed for maintenance.

[0030] In an embodiment, rotation of the longitudinal sealing means is arranged to take place in a rotation direction opposite to a rotation direction of the supporting arrangement.Advantageously, the supporting arrangement and longitudinal sealing means may both be moved away from the frame of the packaging machine, or only one of the two can be moved away. This provides flexibility to the operator to provide access to those components of the machine that he / she wishes to obtain access to.

[0031] In an embodiment, the vertical packaging machine further comprises a locking mechanism for selectively preventing movement of the support arrangement with respect to the frame. Advantageously, accidental and / or unintended rotation during operation of the machine is prevented. Typically, such a locking mechanism is a manual locking mechanism. For example a handle or lever that is rotated or switched to unlock the support arrangement.

[0032] In an embodiment, the locking mechanism is a first locking mechanism and the vertical packaging machine further comprises a second locking mechanism for selectively preventing movement of the longitudinal sealing means with respect to the frame and / or with respect to the supporting arrangement. Advantageously, accidental and / or unintended rotation during operation of the machine is prevented. Typically, such a locking mechanism is a manual locking mechanism. For example, a handle or lever that is rotated or switched to unlock the longitudinal sealing machine may be provided.

[0033] In an embodiment, the forming set is connected to the support arrangement and locked thereto using a pneumatic locking system. Advantageously, the forming set may be replaced withvery little effort. No manual operations are required to fixate the forming set to the support arrangement.

[0034] In an embodiment, the forming set comprises an identification means , for example an RFID, and wherein the vertical packaging machine further comprises a reader for reading the identification means. Preferably, the forming set comprises identification means comprising information on the identity of the forming set, for example a RFID (Radio-frequency-identification- device). The packaging machine comprises a reader to read the identification means. The vertical packaging machine may further comprise data storage means, such as a memory comprising data associated with one or more forming sets such as information on the packaging that can be produced with the forming set, particularly data about the width (extending in a cross machine direction of the film), the length (extending in a machine direction of the film) and / or the desired shape of the packaging can be stored. Alternatively, or in addition, the data storage means may comprise data about the usage or age of the forming set. Based on the data, a computer system, which is part of the packaging machine can control settings of the packaging machine that correspond to the package that can be produced using the forming set.

[0035] Typically, one forming set may be used to form a limited amount, e.g., 5 or 10 different packages having for instance a similar packaging shape yet different packaging volume. The computer system may also indicate to the operator which programmes are compatible with a certain forming set and present the operator with a selection menu.

[0036] According to another important aspect of the invention, and in accordance with the effects and advantages described herein above, there is provided a vertical packaging machine comprising a frame; a support arrangement supporting a forming set configured to form a flat film into a film-tube; and longitudinal sealing means configured for sealing longitudinal edges of the pre-formed film tube, wherein the support arrangement is rotatably supported by the frame. Advantageously, the support arrangement including several different components of the vertical packaging machine may easily be moved with respect to the frame for maintenance or replacement. In particular, since the forming set and longitudinal sealing means are supported by the same support arrangement, both can be moved in a single action by the operator.

[0037] In an embodiment, cutting means are provided for cutting the flat film along a cross machine direction, preferably wherein cutting takes place upon rotation of the support arrangement with respect to the frame.

[0038] According to yet another aspect of the invention, and in accordance with the effects and advantages as described herein above, there is provided a cutting assembly for a vertical packaging machine comprising cutting means for cutting a flat film in the vertical packaging machine; and a film retainer for holding a film end of the flat film after cutting it using the cutting means. The cutting assembly may be mounted on existing packaging machines to provide the advantages of the invention as described herein above.

[0039] In an embodiment, the cutting means are moveable between a first position for cutting and a second position wherein cutting is prevented. For example, a manual retraction device such as a handle or lever connected to the cutting means may be provided to manually retract thecutting means. Alternatively, the retraction device may be automatic, wherein an operator presses a button to automatically move the cutting means, for example using a pneumatic system.

[0040] In an embodiment, the cutting assembly further comprises a housing and the cutting means are rotatably supported within the housing. The housing may be provided around the cutting means in a way that sharp edges of the cutting means are kept away from the operator. In addition, the housing may provide a support structure for connecting the cutting assembly to a vertical packaging machine.

[0041] In an embodiment, the cutting assembly is configured to be arranged in a printer frame of a vertical packaging machine. Here the term printer frame is used to indicate a module of conventional vertical packaging machines that is positioned between the film supply arrangement and the forming set. In the printer frame, important information may be printed onto the packaging, and the alignment of the flat film before it approaches the forming set may be regulated.

[0042] In an embodiment, the cutting means are an elongate knife, preferably comprising a plurality of teeth. Such cutting means can be used to cut through most conventionally used materials.

[0043] According to yet another aspect of the invention, and in accordance with the advantages and effects as described herein above, there is provided a method of changing a forming set in a vertical packaging machine. The method comprises cutting a film in the vertical packaging machine using the cutting means; and replacing a forming set with another forming set.Brief Description of Drawings

[0044] Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts. In the drawings, like numerals designate like elements. Multiple instances of an element may each include separate letters appended to the reference number. For example, two instances of a particular element “20” may be labeled as “20a” and “20b”. The reference number may be used without an appended letter (e.g. “20”) to generally refer to an unspecified instance or to all instances of that element, while the reference number will include an appended letter (e.g. “20a”) to refer to a specific instance of the element.

[0045] Figure 1 A schematically shows a front isometric view of a vertical packaging machine according to a first embodiment.

[0046] Figure 1 B schematically shows an isometric view of an assembly of a forming set and various components in the vertical packaging machine according to the first embodiment in isolation.

[0047] Figure 1 C schematically shows the assembly of components in Fig. 1 B from a different angle.

[0048] Figure 2A schematically shows a side perspective view of the vertical packaging machine according to the first embodiment.

[0049] Figure 2B schematically shows a detail of Fig. 2A.

[0050] Figure 2C shows a detail of a cutting assembly in the vertical packaging machine in Figures 2A and 2B.

[0051] Figure 3A schematically illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of a support arrangement and cutting assembly. Fig. 3B-3E show the support arrangement in different positions with respect to the cutting assembly when used in a method for cutting the film in a vertical packaging machine.

[0052] The figures are meant for illustrative purposes only, and do not serve as restriction of the scope or the protection as laid down by the claims.Description of Embodiments

[0053] The following is a description of certain embodiments of the invention, given by way of example only and with reference to the figures.

[0054] Figure 1 A illustrates a front isometric view of a packaging machine 1 according to a first embodiment. Figures 1 B and 1C schematically show a detail of the packaging machine in Fig. 1A, wherein a protective frame of the machine has been removed and certain modules of the machine have been omitted for the sake of clarity. The angles in Figures 1 B and 1C are different to depict both sides of the assembly.

[0055] The packaging machine 1 comprises a frame 11 , a support arrangement 12 (see Fig. 1 B), a protective frame 13, a film supply arrangement 2, a printer frame 29 (see Fig. 1 B), a forming set 3 having a forming shoulder 31 , a forming tube 32 with an upper end opening 33 and lower end opening (not shown), a mounting frame 34 and a forming funnel (not shown), film transport means 4, longitudinal sealing means 5, cross-sealing means 6, cross-cutting means 7 and a control unit 8.

[0056] The film supply arrangement 2 comprises a reel 21 holding a roll of plastic film, paper material, a mesh material, or any other suitable material for the packaging. The material on the reel 21 is substantially planar and hereafter referred to as a flat film 9. The flat film 9 may be a single layer film, or multi-layer film. In embodiments, more than one supply reel 21 may be provided and the material on the more than one reels may be joined by the machine to form the flat film 9. The film supply arrangement 2 further comprises a plurality of film guides 22, which are rollers and configured for transporting and guiding the film 9 through the packaging machine 1 and feeding it to the forming set 3.

[0057] On the exterior of the protective frame 13, a control unit 8 is provided. The control unit 8 comprises a processor (not shown), memory (not shown), a display 81 with touchscreen, and several buttons 82 to select and / or insert data into the control unit 8. Advantageously, the control unit 8 is provided in an environment that is safe to the operator, such that the control unit 8 may be accessed without taking additional safety measures. The operator may use the control unit 8 to insert, select, confirm and or view packaging properties, film properties, and / or forming set properties. In addition, the operator may use the control unit 8 to review to process of the packaging process.

[0058] The forming set 3 comprises the forming shoulder 31 and the forming tube 32. The forming shoulder 31 receives a flat film 9 from the film supply arrangement 2 and forms it into a tube shaped film (not shown) that extends at least partially around the forming tube 32. Here the term “tube shaped film” is used and a cylindrical forming tube 32 is depicted. Nevertheless, it will be understood by the skilled person that the tube shaped film is not necessarily cylindrical and may also have different shapes dependent on the shape of the forming shoulder 31 and the forming tube 32. Packaging shapes that can be formed using the packaging machine include but are not limited to so-called pillow bags, square bottom bags with a side weld or four side welds, or Doypack® bags.

[0059] The tube shaped film is transported in a substantially vertical direction by the film transport means 4 and guided past the lower end opening of the forming tube 32. The product to be packaged is inserted in the forming tube 32 through a hopper (not shown). There it is weighted using a weighting device. It passes through the forming funnel and the upper end opening 33 into the forming tube 32. The product falls through the forming tube 32, and into the tube shaped film that extends around the forming tube 32.

[0060] The tube shaped film has two longitudinal edges, which are arranged to at least partially overlap. The longitudinal sealing means 5 seal the longitudinal edges together. The film tube is then filled with the product to be packaged via the forming tube 32, and subsequently provided with one or more cross seals by the cross-sealing means 6. After that, packages are formed by cutting the tube shaped film between adjacent cross seals using the cross cutting means 7.

[0061] When an order for a specific product and / or package has been completed, settings of the packaging machine 1 may be changed to prepare the use of the packaging machine 1 for packaging a product using a packaging with a different shape, size, and / or material. To that end, the forming set 3 needs to be replaced with an alternative forming set 3 suitable for the new packaging.

[0062] The support arrangement 12 is mounted rotatably with respect to fixed components of the packaging machine 1 , such as the frame 11 or the printer frame 29 of the machine 1. An axis of rotation R1 extends in a substantially vertical direction. The support arrangement 12 comprises a hinge portion 23 that is engaged in a rotatable connection with the printer frame 29 through two hinge receptacles 15a, 15b on the packaging machine 1. The height of the hinge portion 23, as measured between the first and second hinge receptacles is approximately 30 cm. This is approximately 25% of a width of the printer frame 29, and approximately 30% of a width of a maximum film width that can be processed by the machine. Due to the hinged connection over a relatively long vertical distance, it is not needed for the stability of the support arrangement 12 to support it elsewhere on the frame 1 . Rotation of the support arrangement 12 with respect to the frame 1 may be locked using a manual first locking mechanism 46 (see Fig. 1C).

[0063] Fig. 1C shows the assembly in Fig. 1 B from a different angle. The longitudinal sealing means 5 are rotatably supported by the support arrangement 12. A second manual locking mechanism 47 (see Fig. 1 B) is provided to lock rotation of the longitudinal sealing means 5. Advantageously, rotation of the longitudinal sealing means 5 is arranged to take place around asecond axis of rotation R2 that also extends substantially vertical. Rotation around the rotation axis R2 takes place in a rotation direction opposite to a rotation direction of the supporting arrangement.

[0064] By rotating the support arrangement 12 along the first axis of rotation R1 , the forming set is moved away from the frame 1 , providing better accessibility for an operator to remove the forming set 3. Because the longitudinal sealing means 5 are supported by the support arrangement 12, it is not needed to move those away first, thereby reducing the effort required by the operator to a minimum. Once the support arrangement 12 has been moved with respect to the frame 1 , the forming set 3 may be removed and / or replaced. The forming set 3 is connected to the support arrangement 12 and locked thereto using a pneumatic locking system (not visible, positioned near reference number 37). Advantageously, the locking and unlocking of the forming set 3 requires minimum effort and a single operator alone may replace the forming set, without the aid of colleagues.

[0065] According to an important aspect of the invention, a cutting assembly 20 with cutting means are provided in the packaging machine 1 for cutting the flat film 9 before the forming set 3 is removed.

[0066] Figure 2A provides a different perspective view of the packaging machine 1 according to the first embodiment of the invention. The protective frame 13 has been omitted. A cutting assembly 20 is arranged along a transport path of the film 9 through the printer frame 29 of the packaging machine 1 and the forming set 3. The position of the cutting assembly 20 is indicated in Fig. 2A. Figure 2B shows the position of the cutting assembly 20 in more detail. Figure 2C shows a cross-sectional perspective view of the cutting assembly 20. The cross-section is indicated in Fig. 2B.

[0067] The cutting assembly 20 comprises a cutting means 23, a film retainer 24, a plurality of film guides 25a, 25b, a carrier 26 and a housing 27. Through the housing 27, the cutting assembly 20 may be connected to the printer frame 29. The cutting means 23 have a carrier 26 that is rotatably engaged to a portion of the printer frame 29, such that the cutting means 23 can be rotated around a third rotation axis R3 between a normal (retracted) position during operation of the packaging machine 1 , and a cutting position as shown in Fig. 2C wherein the cutting means 23 are placed in contact with the flat film 9. The packaging machine 1 comprises a handle 72 that can be turned by an operator to switch between the normal and retracted positions (see Fig. 1 B). It will be understood that other activation means also suffice.

[0068] The cutting means 23 are formed as an elongate knife, which extends over at least the width of the flat film 9 in a cross machine direction. The cutting means 23 are arranged at a position between the film supply arrangement and the forming shoulder 31 and configured to cut the flat film. The elongate knife has a plurality of teeth, each shaped as a saw tooth (not shown). Advantageously, cutting means 23 with such teeth shape allow to cut through most conventionally used type of film materials such as plastics or paper based materials. Use of such universal cutting means are important since the cutting means are typically not replaced often. In contrast to most other components of the machine, the cutting means 23 are not used during the normaloperation of the machine, and only during maintenance operations or when preparing the machine for production of a different package.

[0069] Advantageously, the cutting means 23 almost automatically cut the film 9. The only intervention required by the operator is for safety reasons.

[0070] Figures 3A-3E describe steps of cutting the flat film 9 during a rotation of a support arrangement of the vertical packaging machine, and the replacement of a forming set thereafter. Figure 3A-3E depict highly schematic isometric views of an embodiment of a support arrangement 112 configured to be rotatably engaged to the frame of a packaging machine. The packaging machine may for instance be the machine in the embodiment discussed in relation to Figure 1 A- 2C, yet may also be a packaging machine according to a different embodiment of the invention. The support arrangement 112 has a hinge portion with a first hinge end 113 and second hinge end 114, which can be received in hinge receptacles (not shown) on a packaging machine. The support arrangement 112 supports at least the forming set 103 with forming shoulder 131 , forming tube 132 and mounting assembly (not shown), and preferably also film transport means 104 and longitudinal sealing means (not shown). The support of the film transport means 104 and longitudinal sealing means by the support arrangement 121 is not indicated in the highly schematized Fig. 3A-3E for the sake of clarity. The forming shoulder 131 forms the flat film 9 into a tube shaped film 91 .

[0071] Fig. 3A-3E further indicate a cutting assembly 120, which is identical to the assembly 20 as depicted in Fig. 2C. The cutting assembly 120 comprises cutting means 123 (see Fig. 3B) which are held by a carrier 126, and a film retainer and a film guide similar to those in Fig. 2C. These elements are all held by a housing 127 of the assembly 120. The housing 127 is configured to be connected to a printer frame of a vertical packaging machine as described in relation to Figures 1 and 2.

[0072] Fig. 3A-3C schematically illustrate an embodiment of a method for cutting the flat film 9. In Fig. 3A, the film 9 is not in contact with the cutting means 123. When an operator wishes to replace the forming shoulder 131 , the cutting means 123 are brought in position (see Fig. 3B). Such movement may be actuated by switching the safety handle 172. The cutting means 123 are moved from a first position as depicted in Fig. 3A, to a second position as depicted in Figure 3B. Simultaneously, or separately, the film retainer is moved towards the film guide to clamp the film 9 between the film retainer and the guide.

[0073] After the cutting means 123 and film retainer 124 have been brought into position, the film 9 may be cut. In the depicted embodiment, this occurs automatically upon rotation of the support arrangement 112. Fig. 3C illustrates a rotation of the support arrangement 112 over an angle a of approximately 5 degrees around the first rotation axis R1 . By rotating the support arrangement 112, the cutting means 123 separate the film 9 into a first film portion 93 and a second film portion 94.

[0074] After the film 9 has been cut, the support arrangement 112 may be rotated further to a desired position for the operator to take out the forming shoulder and / or to carry out other maintenance. While the support arrangement is removed further from the frame 11 , the first filmportion 93 remains clamped between the film guide 92 and film retainer 124. The second film portion 94 may be removed from the forming shoulder 31 .

[0075] After replacing the forming set 103 with another forming set 103’, the flat film 9 needs to be reintroduced around the forming shoulder 13T and the forming tube 132’ (see Fig. 2E). For safety reasons, the operator has to retract the cutting means 123 using the handle 172 to a position where they cannot accidentally hurt the operator. In embodiments, this may also be done automatically, for instance where the retraction of the cutting means 23 is driven by a pneumatic system. The operator then takes a free end of the first film portion 93 and reintroduces it into the machine. Advantageously, the cutting means 123 provide an approximately straight cut such that this may be done without any issues.

[0076] The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. It will be apparent to the person skilled in the art that alternative and equivalent embodiments of the invention can be conceived and reduced to practice. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

[0077] In particular, the skilled person will understand that the process of cutting the film is not necessarily linked to the movement of the supporting arrangement, and may also be actuated using any manual or automatic system.

Claims

Claims1 . A vertical packaging machine comprising a frame, a film supply arrangement, a forming set, and a cutting and sealing assembly, wherein the film supply arrangement is configured for supplying a flat film to the forming set; wherein the forming set comprises at least a forming shoulder arranged to form the flat film into a film-tube; and wherein the cutting and sealing assembly is configured to form and separate the formed film tube into individual packages, the vertical packaging machine further comprising: cutting means for cutting the flat film along a cross machine direction, wherein the cutting means are provided at a position between the film supply arrangement and the forming set.

2. The vertical packaging machine according to claim 1 , wherein the cutting means are configured to extend along a full width of the flat film.

3. The vertical packaging machine according to claim 1 or 2 further comprising a support arrangement moveably connected to the frame, wherein the support arrangement supports at least the forming set; and wherein the cutting means are connected to the frame and arranged to cut the flat film when the support arrangement is moved with respect to the frame.

4. The vertical packaging machine according to claim 3, wherein the support arrangement is rotatably connected to the frame.

5. The vertical packaging machine according to claim 1 , wherein the cutting means are moveably connected with respect to the frame and moveable along a cross-machine direction of the frame to cut the film.

6. The vertical packaging machine according to claim 5 further comprising a moveable magnet, wherein the cutting means are configured to be actuated by movement of the magnet.

7. The vertical packaging machine according to any of the preceding claims further comprising a film retainer arranged in vicinity of the cutting means, preferably wherein the film retainer is configured to clamp the film.

8. The vertical packaging machine according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cutting means are retractable.

9. The vertical packaging machine according to any of the preceding claims wherein the cutting and sealing assembly comprises:longitudinal sealing means configured for sealing longitudinal edges of the film-tube, cross-sealing means for cross-sealing the film-tube and produce individual packages; and cross-cutting means for separating the individual packages from each other and the filmtube.

10. The vertical packaging machine according to claim 9 and dependent on claim 3 and / or 4, wherein the support arrangement supports the longitudinal sealing means.

11. A vertical packaging machine comprising a frame; a support arrangement supporting a forming shoulder configured to form a flat film into a film-tube; longitudinal sealing means configured for sealing longitudinal edges of the preformed film tube, and wherein the support arrangement is rotatably supported by the frame.

12. The vertical packaging machine according to claim 10 or 11 , wherein an axis of rotation of the support arrangement extends substantially vertical.

13. The vertical packaging machine according to any of claims 10 to 12, wherein the support arrangement comprises a hinge portion engaged in a rotatable connection with respect to the frame through a hinge receptacle on the frame or another fixed component on the packaging machine.

14. The vertical packaging machine according to claim 13, wherein the hinge portion extends over a vertical height of at least 20 cm, preferably at least 30 cm.

15. The vertical packaging machine according to claim 14, wherein the hinge portion is received between a first hinge receptacle and a second hinge receptacle, wherein a ratio between the distance between the first and second hinge receptacle in comparison to a maximum film width that can be processed by the machine, is at least 0.2, or at least 0.3.

16. The vertical packaging machine according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the longitudinal sealing means are moveably, preferably rotatably, supported by the support arrangement.

17. The vertical packaging machine according to any of claims 10 to 16, further comprising transportation means for transporting the pre-formed tube from the forming shoulder and acrossthe longitudinal sealing means, wherein the transportation means are supported by the support arrangement.

18. The vertical packaging machine according to any of claims 10 to 17, wherein rotation of the longitudinal sealing means is arranged to take place in a rotation direction opposite to a rotation direction of the supporting arrangement.

19. The vertical packaging machine according to any of the preceding claims comprising a locking mechanism for selectively preventing movement of the support arrangement with respect to the frame.

20. The vertical packaging machine according to claim 19, wherein the locking mechanism is a first locking mechanism and wherein the vertical packaging machine further comprises a second locking mechanism for selectively preventing movement of the longitudinal sealing means with respect to the frame and / or with respect to the supporting arrangement.21 . The vertical packaging machine according to any of claims 3-10 as long as dependent on claim 3, or according to claim 11-20, wherein the forming set is connected to the support arrangement and locked thereto using a pneumatic locking system.

22. The vertical packaging machine according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the forming set comprises identification means, for example an RFID, and wherein the vertical packaging machine further comprises a reader for reading the identification means.

23. A cutting assembly for a vertical packaging machine comprising cutting means for cutting a flat film in the vertical packaging machine; and a film retainer for holding a film end of the flat film after cutting it using the cutting means.

24. The cutting assembly according to claim 23, wherein the cutting means are moveable between a first position for cutting and a second position wherein cutting is prevented.

25. The cutting assembly according to claim 23 or 24 further comprising a housing and wherein the cutting means are rotatably supported within the housing.

26. The cutting assembly according to claim 23 to 25 configured to be arranged in a printer frame of a vertical packaging machine, in particular a vertical packaging machine according to any of claims 1-22.

27. The cutting assembly according to any of claims 23-26, wherein the cutting means are an elongate knife, preferably comprising a plurality of teeth.

28. A method of changing a forming set in a vertical packaging machine according to any of claims 1-22, the method comprising: cutting a film in the vertical packaging machine using the cutting means; and replacing a forming set with another forming set.

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