Method and apparatus for automatically wrapping and pressing excess film lengths onto cuboidal bodies

Abstract

The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for automatically wrapping and pressing excess film lengths (3) onto cuboidal bodies (1). To carry out the method, the apparatus comprises, inter alia, a first jaw (8.1) mounted on a main body (7) so as to be adjustable along a first adjusting path between a starting position and an operating position, which first jaw bears a first wrapping and pressing bar (9.1) which has a first wrapping face (10.1) and a first pressing face (11.1) different from the first wrapping face (10.1), and a second jaw (8.2) arranged on the main body (7) opposite the first jaw (8.1) and mounted so as to be adjustable along a second adjusting path between a starting position and an operating position, which second jaw bears a second wrapping and pressing bar (9.2) which has a second wrapping face (10.2) and a second pressing face (11.2) different from the second wrapping face (10.2).

Description

[0001] Method and device for automatic

[0002] Folding and pressing film overhangs onto rectangular bodies

[0003] The invention relates to a method and a device for automatically folding and pressing film overhangs onto cuboid-shaped bodies.

[0004] CN 209 150 240 U describes a Mylar adhesive paper folding device for battery cells. This comprises a carrier which is placed on a workbench to position the battery cells to be folded, as well as an assembly base which is placed on the workbench, and an upper support plate of the assembly base. The support plate is provided with a number of Mylar adhesive papers for sticking to the battery core so that the Mylar adhesive papers can be folded and attached to the battery core. The support plate is provided with a drive element to move each of the folding parts left and right. The assembly base is also provided with a lifting device to move the support plate up and down. The assembly base is also provided with a pushing component to move the bearing plate forwards or backwards so that the bearing plate can approach or move away from the carrier.Each folding part is equipped with a rotating roller, which acts on the Mylar adhesive paper to simultaneously fold and press it down.

[0005] The object of the invention is to provide a method and a device for automatically folding and pressing film overhangs onto cuboid-shaped bodies without the need for rollers. This object is achieved by a method for automatically folding and pressing film overhangs onto cuboid-shaped bodies, comprising the following steps:

[0006] - providing a cuboid body which is provided on at least one body surface with a self-adhesive film which projects beyond the body surface on at least one body edge delimiting the body surface, forming a film overhang,

[0007] - positioning a folding and pressing strip, which has a folding surface and a pressing surface adjacent to the folding surface and a strip edge formed between the folding surface and the pressing surface, with respect to the cuboid-shaped body in such a way that the strip edge of the folding and pressing strip is aligned parallel to the body edge of the cuboid-shaped body only while maintaining a tolerance distance,

[0008] - moving the folding and pressing bar in a first direction of movement at least substantially perpendicular to the folding surface against the film overhang in such a way that the film overhang is folded over onto a neighbouring surface of the cuboid body adjacent to the body surface which is provided with the film along the body edge,

[0009] Moving the folding and pressing bar further in the first direction of movement until the pressing surface of the folding and pressing bar at least largely or completely covers the film overhang not folded onto the adjacent surface, and

[0010] - Moving the folding and pressing bar in a second direction of movement different from the first direction of movement at least substantially perpendicular to the pressing surface against the folded film overhang in such a way that the film overhang is pressed flat against the adjacent surface of the cuboid-shaped body.

[0011] The cuboid bodies can be, for example, electrical or electronic components, in particular their housings, which are to be provided, for example, with an electrically insulating film. The process of wrapping such a cuboid body in a film is to be carried out automatically, i.e., without manual processing by a person. The cuboid body can be, for example, a battery cell, i.e., an electrical storage device.

[0012] It is known that such automatic wrapping of a cuboid body into a film takes place by means of automatically operating grippers which are provided with rotating rollers or cylinders. The rollers or cylinders can be guided so as to roll around the edge of the cuboid body in order to fold over any excess film and press it down. The disadvantage here is that due to the rolling movement of the roller or cylinder on the film, folding and pressing take place at the same time. Furthermore, the diameter of the rollers or cylinders cannot be made arbitrarily small since otherwise they no longer have sufficient rigidity to be able to press any excess film largely evenly over the entire surface, particularly with longer rolls.Since rollers with a relatively large diameter can be used, film overhangs cannot, for example, be brought very close to inner edges, since the roller or cylinder would touch the side wall of the inner edge before it could fully press the film overhang onto the floor surface near the inner edges. Accordingly, film overhangs cannot, for example, be brought very close to inner edges using the means known from the prior art.

[0013] However, with the method and the device according to the invention, this is easily possible since no rollers or cylinders are required to fold over and press down the film overhangs.

[0014] Inner edges on cuboid bodies can occur, for example, where a surface of the cuboid body is not completely flat, but has a raised area or a projection. A raised area or a projection can occur when the cuboid body, which is designed, for example, as an electrical or electronic component such as a battery cell, a plug connector or a battery terminal, projects beyond the plane of the surface of the cuboid body. In these cases, too, there is a need to be able to insert the film that is to be stuck onto the cuboid body right into the corner of the inner edge.

[0015] The cuboid body can be provided by inserting it into a holding device at an automated workstation and automatically securing it therein. The cuboid body can be brought to the holding device, for example, by an automatically controlled robot.

[0016] The self-adhesive film can be applied to the main surfaces of the cuboid body, for example, using devices known per se. Provision can be made for the film adhered to the main surfaces of the cuboid body to protrude by a certain amount at the side edges, thus forming a film overhang in each case. The object of the invention is then to fold over and press down these film overhangs around the respective side edge without the use of rollers or cylinders, so that the folded-over film overhang can be automatically adhered to the adjacent surface of the cuboid body by automatic pressing.

[0017] In this case, a folding and pressing strip, which has a folding surface and a pressing surface adjacent to the folding surface and a strip edge formed between the folding surface and the pressing surface, is positioned with respect to the cuboid-shaped body in such a way that the strip edge of the folding and pressing strip is aligned only while maintaining a tolerance distance parallel to the body edge of the cuboid-shaped body, along which the film overhang is to be folded over.

[0018] According to the method according to the invention, the folding and pressing strip is first moved in a first direction of movement at least substantially perpendicular to the folding surface against the film overhang in such a way that the film overhang is folded over along the body edge onto a neighboring surface of the cuboid body adjacent to the body surface which is provided with the film.

[0019] The folding surface of the folding and pressing strip is at least substantially perpendicular to the adjacent surface and, before folding, parallel to the surface of the film overhang. By a sweeping movement of the folding and pressing strip, the film overhang is then successively folded over onto the adjacent surface, i.e. folded over. The folding surface of the folding and pressing strip can be moved over the entire surface of the film overhang. Initially, the folding surface of the folding and pressing strip is still at least substantially flat against the film overhang, but as the film overhang is folded over, the film overhang is moved away from the folding surface of the folding and pressing strip by the film overhang being folded over, and accordingly only a lower body edge of the folding surface of the folding and pressing strip rests on the outside of the film overhang that now does not protrude.The orientation of the folding surface of the folding and pressure strip is therefore at least essentially unchanged during its movement to fold over the excess film.

[0020] Given the first direction of movement of the folding and pressure bar, the folding surface of the folding and pressure bar always points in the first direction of movement during folding. During this movement, the pressure surface of the folding and pressure bar always points downward, i.e., toward the surface of the folded film overhang.

[0021] In this way, the folding and pressure bar continues to move in the first direction of movement until the pressing surface of the folding and pressure bar at least largely or completely covers the unfolded film overhang onto the adjacent surface. At the end of the folding movement, the pressing surface of the folding and pressure bar is already fully in contact with the unfolded film overhang. The folding and pressure bar therefore does not need to be moved away or reoriented at the end of the first movement in order to begin the pressing movement.

[0022] Accordingly, in the method according to the invention, after the folding over of the film overhang has been completed, the folding and pressing bar is moved in a second direction of movement, different from the first direction of movement, at least substantially perpendicular to the pressing surface, against the folded over film overhang in such a way that the film overhang is pressed flat against the adjacent surface of the cuboid-shaped body. The second direction of movement is therefore preferably aligned perpendicular to the first direction of movement. In the case of ideal cuboid-shaped bodies, the body surfaces of which always abut one another at a right angle at the body edges, the film overhang is folded over by 90 degrees along the relevant body edge. In these cases, it is therefore most expedient if the folding surface is arranged at a right angle, i.e. at a 90-degree angle to the pressing surface on the folding and pressing bar.If the cuboid body is not an ideal cuboid body, but rather one in which at least two adjacent body surfaces do not meet at exactly right angles in the area of ​​a body edge, then an alignment deviating from a right-angled alignment of the folding surface, the pressing surface, and / or even the entire folding and pressing strip may be appropriate. Alternatively, for these reasons, it may also be appropriate to construct the folding and pressing strip from an elastic material instead of a rigid material in order to compensate for certain positional deviations. This will be explained in more detail below in the description of the device.

[0023] According to the invention, the folding and pressing strip is first moved in a first direction of movement at least substantially perpendicular to the folding surface against the film overhang in such a way that the film overhang is folded over along the body edge onto a neighboring surface of the cuboid body that is adjacent to the body surface that is provided with the film, and the folding and pressing strip is then moved further in the first direction of movement until the pressing surface of the folding and pressing strip at least largely or completely covers the film overhang folded over onto the neighboring surface, and only then is the folding and pressing strip moved in a second direction of movement different from the first direction of movement at least substantially perpendicular to the pressing surface against the folded film overhang in such a way that the film overhang is pressed flat against the neighboring surface of the cuboid body.

[0024] In a further development of the method, a simultaneous folding over of a first film overhang, which projects over a first body surface provided with the film over a first body edge of the cuboid body, by means of a first folding and pressing strip, and a second film overhang, which projects over a first body edge provided with the film,

[0025] The second body surface provided with a film and lying opposite the first body surface projects beyond a second body edge of the cuboid body by means of a second folding and pressing strip.

[0026] In this way, two film overhangs projecting from opposite, parallel edges of the cuboid body can be folded over simultaneously. Such simultaneous folding can be achieved by moving the two opposite folding surfaces of the first folding and pressing bar and the second folding and pressing bar towards each other like a pair of pliers. The two film overhangs, i.e. the first film overhang and the second film overhang, initially protrude outwards from the opposite edges of the cuboid body in a parallel orientation and are then both folded over inwards, i.e. towards each other.

[0027] In a further development of the method, it can be provided that a simultaneous pressing of the first film overhang onto a first adjacent surface of the cuboid-shaped body by means of the first folding and pressing bar, and the second film overhang, which is arranged opposite the first film overhang, also onto the first adjacent surface of the cuboid-shaped body, takes place by means of the second folding and pressing bar.

[0028] The first folding and pressing bar and the second folding and pressing bar are in their active positions. These active positions are a first jaw, which supports the first folding and pressing bar, and a second jaw, which supports the second folding and pressing bar, in a pincer-like closed position. In this pincer-like closed position, the two unfolded film overhangs can then be pressed together.

[0029] In order to make it possible to press on unfolded film overhangs from two opposite sides, a special embodiment of the method can provide for simultaneous pressing of the first film overhang onto the first adjacent surface of the cuboid body by means of the first folding and pressing bar, and of the second film overhang, which is arranged opposite the first film overhang, likewise onto the first adjacent surface of the cuboid body, by means of the second folding and pressing bar, as well as simultaneous pressing of a third film overhang onto a second adjacent surface opposite the first adjacent surface of the cuboid body by means of a third folding and pressing bar, and of a fourth film overhang, which is arranged opposite the third film overhang, likewise onto the second adjacent surface of the cuboid body,by means of a fourth cover and pressure bar ,

[0030] This has the advantage that a compressive force can be exerted on the cuboid body from two opposite sides of the cuboid body, and thus no separate counter-hold is necessary to counteract a one-sided compressive force. This means that two film overhangs on two opposite sides of the cuboid body can be folded over and pressed down simultaneously. This also significantly shortens the processing time for these process steps. The problem is thus also solved by a device for automatically folding over and pressing down film overhangs on cuboid bodies, comprising:

[0031] - a base body,

[0032] - a first jaw which is mounted on the base body so as to be adjustable between an initial position and an effective position along a first adjustment path and which carries a first folding and pressing bar which has a first folding surface and a first pressing surface which is different from the first folding surface,

[0033] - a second jaw arranged opposite the base body of the first jaw, adjustable between an initial position and an active position along a second adjustment path, which second jaw carries a second folding and pressing bar which has a second folding surface and a second pressing surface different from the second folding surface,

[0034] - at least one drive for automatically adjusting the first jaw and the second jaw between their initial position and their effective position, wherein

[0035] - the first cover surface is attached to the first cover and pressure strip and the second

[0036] The handling area is positioned at the second handling and

[0037] Pressure bar is arranged so that the first

[0038] The turning surface over the first adjustment path and the second turning surface over the second adjustment path are always at least substantially aligned towards each other, and

[0039] - the first pressing surface is arranged on the first folding and pressing strip and the second pressing surface is arranged on the second folding and pressing strip in such a way that the first pressing surface is always oriented at least substantially in the same direction over the first adjustment path and the second pressing surface is always oriented at least substantially in the same direction over the second adjustment path.

[0040] The base body forms a support base for both the first jaw and the second jaw. By adjusting the base body, the first jaw and the second jaw can be moved together towards the cuboid body. The first jaw and the second jaw are mounted on the base body in a pincer-like manner and can be adjusted. In their respective starting positions, the first jaw and the second jaw are opened like pincers and thus the first folding and pressing bar and the second folding and pressing bar are positioned at the greatest distance from each other in their respective starting positions. In their respective active positions, the first jaw and the second jaw are partially closed like pincers and thus the first folding and pressing bar and the second folding and pressing bar are positioned at a reduced distance from each other in their respective active positions.

[0041] In the respective starting positions of the first folding and pressing bar and the second folding and pressing bar, the first folding surface and the second folding surface are at a distance from one another which at least substantially corresponds to the distance between two opposite film projections or is slightly greater, so that the respective folding surface of the respective folding and pressing bar can be positioned on an outer side of an associated film projection. If the two folding surfaces of the first folding and pressing bar and the second folding and pressing bar are now moved towards one another into their operative positions, the two film projections are folded over onto the adjacent surface of the cuboid-shaped body.

[0042] The two film overhangs are folded over onto the adjacent surface automatically by at least one drive automatically moving the first jaw and the second jaw.

[0043] By arranging the first folding surface on the first folding and pressing bar and the second folding surface on the second folding and pressing bar in such a way that the first folding surface is always aligned at least substantially towards each other over the first adjustment path and the second folding surface is always aligned at least substantially towards each other over the second adjustment path, the two folding surfaces are moved towards each other in a pincer-like movement and the two film overhangs are folded over onto the adjacent surface, pivoting towards each other and engaging from the outside.

[0044] When the two film overhangs are completely folded over, the first folding and pressing bar and the second folding and pressing bar are located directly above the folded film overhangs, so that after the film overhangs have been completely folded over, the two folding and pressing bars can be pressed directly onto the surfaces of the folded film overhangs in a vertical movement. The first pressing surface and the second pressing surface are therefore arranged parallel to the planes of the film overhangs in the deflected state of the two film overhangs. By an adjusting movement in the second direction of movement, in particular at least substantially perpendicular to the first direction of movement, the film overhangs that have already been folded over can thus be pressed onto the adjacent surface of the cuboid body.

[0045] The first jaw can be pivotally mounted on the base body by means of a first pivot bearing, wherein the first turning and pressing bar is arranged on the first jaw in such a way that the first pressing surface points away from the first pivot bearing and the second jaw can be pivotally mounted on the base body by means of a second pivot bearing, wherein the second turning and pressing bar is arranged on the second jaw in such a way that the second pressing surface points away from the second pivot bearing.

[0046] In such a design, the first pressure surface and the second pressure surface both point in the same direction. This is also practical, so that both pressure surfaces press simultaneously on the respective film overhang during a joint adjustment movement in the second direction.

[0047] In order to be able to move the first jaw and the second jaw simultaneously, i.e., in a coordinated manner, from their initial positions to their active positions, the first jaw and the second jaw can be adjusted synchronously by means of a coupling mechanism, automatically driven by at least one drive. Such a coupling mechanism can be designed as follows.The first jaw can be pivotally mounted on the base body by means of a first pivot bearing, the first jaw can comprise a first lever to be actuated by a first coupling member, wherein the first coupling member is rotatably mounted on the first lever on the one hand and is rotatably mounted on a linearly adjustable slide on the other hand, such that a linear adjusting movement of the slide causes the first jaw to pivot, and the second jaw can be pivotally mounted on the base body by means of a second pivot bearing, the second jaw can comprise a second lever to be actuated by a second coupling member, wherein the second coupling member is rotatably mounted on the second lever on the one hand and is rotatably mounted on the linearly adjustable slide on the other hand, such that a linear adjusting movement of the slide causes the second jaw to pivot simultaneously with the first jaw.

[0048] The linear movement of the adjustable carriage is thus converted into a respective pivoting movement of the first jaw and the second jaw. The adjustable carriage moves while the first folding and pressing bar and the second folding and pressing bar move in the first direction of movement in order to fold over the two film overhangs towards the base body. As soon as the adjustable carriage rests against the base body or against at least one stop connected to the base body, the movements of the first folding and pressing bar and the second folding and pressing bar in the first direction of movement are terminated.

[0049] The at least one stop can be adjustably mounted on the base body in such a way that the distance between the stop surface of the stop and the base body can be changed by adjusting the stop. The distance from the base body at which the adjustable carriage strikes the stop surface of the stop during its linear movement can thus be variably set. This determines the end positions of the first jaw and the second jaw in their respective active positions. The entire device can therefore be adapted to cuboid bodies of different sizes. The drive can therefore be designed as a linear drive which drives the linearly adjustable carriage in order to pivot the second jaw simultaneously with the first jaw.

[0050] The linear drive can, for example, comprise a pneumatic cylinder. Alternatively, the linear drive can be an electromagnetic linear drive. In a further embodiment, the linear drive can comprise an electric motor whose rotating motor shaft is connected to a spindle, on which a spindle nut is guided. The spindle nut adjusts in a linear motion as the spindle rotates, thereby linearly driving the carriage to which the spindle nut is connected.

[0051] The base body can be connected to at least one guide rail which is mounted in a frame so as to be linearly adjustable and which has the drive, wherein the carriage is mounted between the frame and the base body on the at least one guide rail so as to be linearly adjustable, such that a drive movement of the drive moves the carriage on the at least one guide rail in the direction of the base body, so that the first jaw and the second jaw are adjusted from their starting positions into their active positions until the carriage rests against a stop surface of the base body.

[0052] Because at least one guide rail is mounted in the frame for linear adjustment, the base body can perform a linear adjustment movement as soon as the carriage hits the base body or at least one stop on the base body. Although the first jaw and the second jaw are then no longer pivoted, both jaws are then moved forward together in a linear manner, retaining their respective pivot positions. By means of this joint linear movement, the pressure surfaces of the two folding and pressing bars can simultaneously press against the folded-over film overhangs in order to press them against the associated adjacent surface of the cuboid body.

[0053] Thus, due to the linear adjustability of the at least one guide rail on the frame, during a further drive movement of the drive, the carriage, when it rests against the stop surface of the base body, can be moved further together with the base body and the first jaw as well as the second jaw in the drive movement direction, such that in the configuration in which the first jaw and the second jaw are in their operative positions, the first pressing surface of the first folding and pressing bar and the second pressing surface of the second folding and pressing bar are moved forward in an impact direction perpendicular to the planes of the first pressing surface and the second pressing surface in the drive movement direction.

[0054] The at least one guide rail can be mounted on the frame by means of a spring device, preloaded against the direction of drive movement. The spring device causes the at least one guide rail, and thus also the base body as well as the first jaw and the second jaw together, to independently return to their original position when the drive returns the carriage to open the first jaw and the second jaw.

[0055] The first cover and pressure strip and / or the second cover and pressure strip may be made of an elastic material.

[0056] The first folding and pressing strip and / or the second folding and pressing strip can, for example, have a rectangular or square cross-section. In the case of such a rectangular or square cross-section, a first body surface of the respective folding and pressing strip forms the respective folding surface, and a respective adjacent second body surface of the respective folding and pressing strip, which is reoriented by 90 degrees with respect to the first body surface, forms the respective pressing surface.

[0057] If the first folding and pressing strip and / or the second folding and pressing strip is made of an elastic material, any unevenness present on the body edges, in particular on the adjacent surface of the cuboid-shaped body, can be compensated for in order to be able to exert the most uniform possible pressing force when pressing the folded-over film projections onto the film projections. The first folding and pressing strip and / or the second folding and pressing strip can be made, for example, from an elastomer material and / or a foam. A specific embodiment of the invention is explained in more detail in the following description with reference to the attached figures.Concrete features of this exemplary embodiment may, regardless of the specific context in which they are mentioned, possibly also considered individually or in further combinations, represent general features of the invention.

[0058] It shows :

[0059] Fig . 1 an exemplary cuboid

[0060] Body which is provided with a self-adhesive film, before folding over and pressing the film overhangs,

[0061] Fig . 2 the exemplary cuboid

[0062] Body according to Fig. 1, which is provided with the self-adhesive film, after folding over and pressing on the film overhangs,

[0063] Fig. 3 is a schematic representation of an exemplary embodiment of a device for automatic

[0064] Folding and pressing film overhangs on the short sides of a cuboid body in a respective starting position of the jaws of the device,

[0065] Fig . 4 a schematic representation of the

[0066] Device according to Fig. 3 in a respective operating position of jaws of the

[0067] Device for pressing the folded film overhangs,

[0068] Fig . 5 a schematic representation of the

[0069] Device according to Fig. 3 in a respective operative position of jaws of the device during pressing of the folded film overhangs,

[0070] Fig. 6 is a schematic representation of an exemplary embodiment of a device for automatic

[0071] Folding and pressing film overhangs on the long sides of a cuboid body in a respective starting position of the jaws of the device,

[0072] Fig . 7 a schematic representation of the

[0073] Device according to Fig. 6 in a respective operating position of jaws of the device before pressing the folded film overhangs,

[0074] Fig . 8 a schematic representation of the

[0075] Device according to Fig. 6 in a respective operative position of jaws of the device during pressing of the folded film overhangs, and Fig. 9 a schematic representation of a

[0076] Sequence of steps in a method according to the invention.

[0077] Fig. 1 shows a cuboid body 1. A film 2 is glued flatly to at least one of the body surfaces 4 of the cuboid body 1, for example. The film 2 is somewhat larger than the body surface 4 of the cuboid body 1 to which it is glued, so that film projections 3 are formed at the edges in the region of the body edges 5 of the cuboid body 1.

[0078] The film projections 3 of the film 2 are to be folded over in the direction of arrow P around the adjacent body edges 5 onto the adjacent surfaces 4a of the cuboid body 1 and pressed there, as shown schematically in Fig. 1 in conjunction with Fig. 2. Fig. 2 shows the film projections 3 of the film 2 after folding and pressing.

[0079] Fig. 3 to Fig. 5 show a device 6 for automatically folding and pressing film overhangs 3 against short sides of the cuboid body 1. Fig. 6 to Fig. 8, however, show an equivalent device 6 for automatically folding and pressing film overhangs 3 against long sides of the cuboid body 1.

[0080] Both in the device according to Fig. 3 to Fig. 5 and in the modified device according to Fig. 6 to Fig. 8, a first folding and pressing bar 9. 1 and a second folding and pressing bar 9. 2 are shown, which are designed differently. This is intended to show only two possible, different designs of folding and pressing bars, which are not used simultaneously, but rather represent alternatives, both of which are optionally possible. However, on a pair of actual first jaw 8.1 and second jaw 8.2, two identical folding and pressing bars 9. 1 and 9. 2 are to be used and not two different designs on the same device.

[0081] The respective device 6 for automatically folding and pressing film overhangs 3 onto cuboid bodies 1 has a base body 7.

[0082] Mounted on the base body 7 is a first jaw 8.1 which is adjustable between a starting position (Fig. 3) and an active position (Fig. 4, Fig. 5) along a first adjustment path and which carries a first folding and pressing bar 9.1 which has a first folding surface 10.1 and a first pressing surface 11.1 which is different from the first folding surface 10.1.

[0083] Furthermore, a second jaw 8.2 is mounted on the base body 7 opposite the first jaw 8.1 and is adjustable between the starting position (Fig. 3) and the active position (Fig. 4, Fig. 5) along a second adjustment path, which second jaw 8.2 carries a second folding and pressing bar 9.2 which has a second folding surface 10.2 and a second pressing surface 11.2 which is different from the second folding surface 10.2.

[0084] The first jaw 8.1 and the second jaw 8.2 are each pivotably mounted on the base body 7. The device 6 comprises at least one drive 12 for automatically adjusting the first jaw 8.1 and the second jaw 8.2 between their starting position (Fig. 3) and their operating position (Fig. 4, Fig. 5).

[0085] The first cover surface 10.1 is arranged on the first cover and pressure strip 9.1 and the second cover surface 10.2 is arranged on the second cover and pressure strip 9.2 in such a way that the first cover surface

[0086] 10.1 over the first adjustment path and the second turning surface 10.2 over the second adjustment path are always aligned at least substantially towards each other.

[0087] The first pressing surface 11.1 is attached to the first cover and pressing strip 9.1 and the second pressing surface

[0088] 11.2 is attached to the second cover and pressure strip

[0089] 9.2 arranged so that the first pressure surface 11.1 over the first adjustment path and the second pressure surface 11.2 over the second adjustment path are always aligned at least substantially in the same direction.

[0090] The first jaw 8.1 is pivotally mounted on the base body 7 by means of a first pivot bearing 13.1, wherein the first turning and pressing bar 9.1 is arranged on the first jaw 8.1 such that the first pressing surface 11.1 points away from the first pivot bearing 13.1 and the second jaw 8.2 is pivotally mounted on the base body 7 by means of a second pivot bearing 13.2, wherein the second turning and pressing bar 9.2 is arranged on the second jaw 8.2 such that the second pressing surface 11.2 points away from the second pivot bearing 13.2. In the illustrated embodiments, the first jaw 8.1 is pivotally mounted on the base body 7 by means of the first pivot bearing 13.1 and the first jaw 8.1 comprises a first lever 15.1 to be actuated by a first coupling member 14.1, wherein the first coupling member 14.1 is on the one hand connected to the first lever 15.1 is rotatably mounted and on the other hand is rotatably mounted on a linearly adjustable carriage 16 such that a linear adjustment movement of the carriage 16 causes the first jaw 8.1 to pivot.

[0091] In an analogous manner, the second jaw 8.2 is pivotally mounted on the base body 7 by means of the second pivot bearing 13.2 and the second jaw 8.2 comprises a second lever 15.2 to be actuated by a second coupling member 14.2, wherein the second coupling member 14.2 is rotatably mounted on the second lever 15.2 on the one hand and is rotatably mounted on the linearly adjustable slide 16 on the other hand, such that a linear adjustment movement of the slide 16 also causes the second jaw 8.2 to pivot simultaneously with the first jaw 8.2.

[0092] The drive 12 can be designed as a linear drive which drives the linearly adjustable carriage 16 in order to cause the second jaw 8.2 to pivot simultaneously with the first jaw 8.1.

[0093] In the illustrated embodiments, the base body 7 is connected to two guide rails 17.1, 17.2, which are mounted in a frame 18 for linear adjustment. The drive 12 is also arranged on the frame 18. The carriage 16 is mounted between the frame 18 and the base body 7 on the two guide rails 17.1, 17.2 for linear adjustment, such that a drive movement of the drive 12 moves the carriage 16 on the two guide rails 17.1, 17.2 in the direction of the base body 7, so that the first jaw 8.1 and the second jaw 8.2 are moved from their starting positions (Fig. 3 and Fig. 6) into their active positions (Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 or Fig. 7 and Fig. 8) until the carriage 16 rests against a stop surface A of the base body 7.

[0094] In the illustrated embodiments, the stop surface A of the base body 7 is formed by a screw head 19 of an adjusting screw 20, which is screwed into the base body 7. By turning the adjusting screw 20, the stop surface A, i.e. the screw head 19, can be arranged at a variable distance such that the adjustment path of the slide 16 until it rests against the base body 7 can be variably adjusted. This setting also determines the pivoting path of the first jaw 8.1 and the second jaw 8.2, at whose pivoting movement ends the active positions (Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 or Fig. 7 and Fig. 8) are defined.

[0095] Specifically, Fig. 5 and Fig. 8 show how, due to the linear adjustability of the guide rails 17.1, 17.2 on the frame 18, when the drive 12 continues its drive movement from the positions shown in Fig. 4 and Fig. 7, the carriage 16, when it rests against the stop surface A or the screw head 19 of the adjusting screw 20 of the base body 7, is moved further in the drive movement direction R together with the base body 7 as well as the first jaw 8.1 and the second jaw 8.2, in such a way that in the configuration in which the first jaw 8.1 and the second jaw 8.2 are in their operative positions, the first pressing surface 11.1 of the first folding and pressing bar 9.1 and the second pressing surface 11.2 of the second folding and pressing bar 9.2 in an impact direction perpendicular to the planes of the first pressing surface 11.1 and the second pressure surface 11.2 can be moved forward in the direction of drive movement so that the unfolded film overhangs can be pressed firmly against the respective adjacent surface 4a of the cuboid body 1. This may well result in intentional deformations of the first folding and pressing bar 9.1 and / or the second folding and pressing bar 9.2.

[0096] The respective guide rail 17.1, 17.2 is mounted on the frame 18 by means of a respective spring device 21.1, 21.2, pre-tensioned against the drive movement direction R.

[0097] The first cover and pressure strip 9.1 and / or the second cover and pressure strip 9.2 are each made of an elastic material.

[0098] Fig. 9 shows schematically the sequence of a method according to the invention for automatically folding and pressing film overhangs 3 onto cuboid bodies 1, with the following steps.

[0099] In a first step S1 of the method, a cuboid-shaped body 1 is provided, which is provided on at least one body surface with a self-adhesive film

[0100] 2 is provided, which is provided on at least one body edge delimiting the body surface, forming a film overhang

[0101] 3 extends beyond the body surface.

[0102] In a second step S2 of the method, the two folding and pressing strips 9.1 and 9.2 are positioned, each of which has a folding surface 10.1, 10.2 and a pressing surface 11.1, 11.2 adjacent to the respective folding surface 10.1, 10.2 and a pressing surface 11.1, 11.2 between the folding surface

[0103] 10.1, 10.2 and the pressing surface 11.1, 11.2, with respect to the cuboid body 1 such that the strip edge 22.1, 22.2 of the folding and pressing strip 9.1 and 9.2 is aligned parallel to the body edge (body edge 5) of the cuboid body 1 while maintaining a tolerance distance.

[0104] In a third step S3 of the method, the folding and pressing strips 9.1 and 9.2 are moved in a first direction of movement at least substantially perpendicular to the folding surface 10.1, 10.2 against the film overhang 3 such that the film overhang 3 is folded over onto a neighboring surface 4a of the cuboid body 1 adjacent to the body surface which is provided with the film 2 along the body edge (body edge 5).

[0105] In a fourth step S4 of the method, the cover and pressure strips 9.1 and 9.2 are moved further in the first direction of movement until the respective pressure surface

[0106] 11.1, 11.2 of the folding and pressing strip 9.1, 9.2 at least largely or completely covers the film overhang 3 folded over onto the adjacent surface 4a.

[0107] In a fifth step S5 of the method, the folding and pressing strips 9.1 and 9.2 are moved in a second movement direction at least substantially perpendicular to the first movement direction and at least substantially perpendicular to the pressing surface 11.1, 11.2 against the folded film overhang 3 in such a way that the film overhang 3 is pressed flatly against the adjacent surface 4a of the cuboid body 1.

Claims

Patent claims 1. A method for automatically folding and pressing film overhangs (3) onto cuboid bodies (1), comprising the following steps: - Providing a cuboid body (1) which is provided on at least one body surface (4) with a self-adhesive film (2) which projects beyond the body surface (4) on at least one body edge (5) delimiting the body surface (4) to form a film overhang (3), - Positioning a cover and pressure bar (9.1, 9.2) which has a turn-over surface (10.1, 10.2) and a pressing surface (11.1, 11.2) adjacent to the turn-over surface (10.1, 10.2) and a strip edge (22.1, 22.2) formed between the turn-over surface (10.1, 10.2) and the pressing surface (11.1, 11.2), with respect to the cuboid body (1) in such a way that the strip edge (22.1, 22.2) of the turn-over and pressing strip (9.1, 9.2) is aligned parallel to the body edge (5) of the cuboid body (1) while maintaining a tolerance distance, - moving the folding and pressing bar (9.1, 9.2) in a first direction of movement at least substantially perpendicular to the folding surface (10.1, 10.2) against the film projection (3) in such a way that the film projection (3) is directed onto a surface adjacent to the body surface (4) which is provided with the film (2). Neighbouring surface (4a) of the cuboid body (1) is folded over along the body edge (5), - Continue moving the folding and pressing bar (9.1, 9.2) in the first direction of movement until the pressing surface (11.1, 11.2) of the folding and pressing bar (9.1, 9.2) reaches the adjacent surface (4a) at least largely or completely covers the folded film overhang (3), and - Moving the folding and pressing bar (9.1, 9.2) in a second direction of movement different from the first direction of movement at least substantially perpendicular to the pressing surface (11.1, 11.2) against the folded film overhang (3) in such a way that the film overhang (3) is pressed flat against the adjacent surface (4a) of the cuboid body (1).

2. Method according to claim 1, characterized by simultaneously folding over a first film overhang (3), which projects over a first body surface (5) provided with the film (2) beyond a first body edge (5) of the cuboid body (1), by means of a first folding and pressing strip (9.1), and a second film overhang (3), which projects over a second body edge (5) of the cuboid body (1) beyond a second body surface (4) provided with the film (2) and opposite the first body surface (4), by means of a second folding and pressing strip (9.2).

3. Method according to claim 2, characterized by simultaneously pressing the first film overhang (3) against a first adjacent surface (4a) of the cuboid body (1) by means of the first folding and pressing strip (9.1), and the second film overhang (3), which is arranged opposite the first film projection (3), also to the first adjacent surface (4a) of the cuboid body (1), by means of the second folding and pressing strip (9.2).

4. Method according to claim 3, characterized by simultaneously pressing the first film overhang (3) against the first adjacent surface (4a) of the cuboid body (1) by means of the first folding and pressing strip (9.1), and the second film overhang (3) , which is arranged opposite the first film overhang (3), also to the first neighboring surface (4a) of the cuboid body (1) , by means of the second folding and pressing bar (9.2) , and simultaneously pressing a third film overhang (3) onto a second neighboring surface (4a) opposite the first neighboring surface (4a) of the cuboid body (1) by means of a third folding and pressing bar (9.3) , and a fourth film overhang (3) , which is arranged opposite the third film overhang (3), also to the second neighboring surface (4a) of the cuboid body (1) , by means of a fourth folding and pressing bar (9.4).

5. Device for automatically folding and pressing film overhangs (3) on cuboid bodies (1), comprising: a base body (7), - a first jaw mounted on the base body (7) so as to be adjustable between an initial position and an effective position along a first adjustment path (8.1) , which has a first folding and pressing strip (9.1) which has a first turning surface (10.1) and a first pressing surface (11.1) different from the first turning surface (10.1), - a second jaw (8.2) arranged on the base body (7) opposite the first jaw (8.1), adjustable between an initial position and an active position along a second adjustment path, which second jaw carries a second folding and pressing bar (9.2) having a second folding surface (10.2) and a second pressing surface (11.2) different from the second folding surface (10.2), - at least one drive (12) for automatically adjusting the first jaw (8.1) and the second jaw (8.2) between their initial position and their effective position, wherein - the first folding surface (10.1) is arranged on the first folding and pressing bar (9.1) and the second folding surface (10.2) is arranged on the second folding and pressing bar (9.2) in such a way that the first folding surface (10.1) is arranged over the first adjustment path and the second folding surface (10.2) over the second adjustment path always are at least substantially aligned with each other, and - the first pressing surface (11.1) is arranged on the first folding and pressing strip (9.1) and the second pressing surface (11.2) is arranged on the second folding and pressing strip (9.2) in such a way that the first pressing surface (11.1) is always oriented at least substantially in the same direction over the first adjustment path and the second pressing surface (11.2) is always oriented at least substantially in the same direction over the second adjustment path.

6. Device according to claim 5, characterized in that the first jaw (8.1) is pivotally mounted on the base body (7) by means of a first pivot bearing (13.1), wherein the first folding and pressing bar (9.1) is arranged on the first jaw (8.1) in such a way that the first pressing surface (11.1) points away from the first pivot bearing (13.1) and the second jaw (8.2) is pivotally mounted on the base body (7) by means of a second pivot bearing (13.2), wherein the second folding and pressing bar (9.2) is arranged on the second jaw (8.2) in such a way that the second pressing surface (11.2) points away from the second pivot bearing (13.2).

7. Device according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the first jaw (8.1) is pivotally mounted on the base body (7) by means of a first pivot bearing (13.1), the first jaw (8.1) comprises a first lever (15.1) to be actuated by a first coupling member (14.1), wherein the the first coupling member (14.1) is rotatably mounted on the first lever (15.1) on the one hand and on a linearly adjustable slide (16) on the other hand, such that a linear adjusting movement of the slide (16) causes the first jaw (8.1) to pivot, and the second jaw (8.2) is pivotably mounted on the base body (7) by means of a second pivot bearing (13.2), the second jaw (8.2) comprises a second lever (15.2) to be actuated by a second coupling member (14.2), wherein the second coupling member (14.2) is rotatably mounted on the second lever (15.2) on the one hand and is rotatably mounted on the linearly adjustable slide (16) on the other hand, such that a linear adjusting movement of the slide (16) causes the second jaw (8.2) to pivot simultaneously with the first jaw (8.1).

8. Device according to claim 7, characterized in that the drive (12) is designed as a linear drive which drives the linearly adjustable carriage (16) in order to effect pivoting of the second jaw (8.2) simultaneously with the first jaw (8.1).

9. Device according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the base body (7) is connected to at least one guide rail (17.1, 17.2) which is mounted in a frame (18) for linear adjustment which has the drive (12), wherein the carriage (16) is mounted between the frame (18) and the base body (7) on the at least one guide rail (17.1, 17.2) for linear adjustment, such that a drive movement of the drive (12) moves the carriage (16) on the at least one guide rail (17.1, 17.2) in Direction of the base body (7) so that the first jaw (8.1) and the second jaw (8.2) are moved from their starting positions to their active positions until the slide (16) rests against a stop surface (A) of the base body (7).

10. Device according to claim 9, characterized in that due to the linear adjustability of the at least one guide rail (17.1, 17.2) on the frame (18) with a further drive movement of the drive (12) the carriage (16), when it rests on the stop surface (A) of the base body (7), together with the base body (7) and the first jaw (8.1) as well as the second jaw (8.2) in Drive movement direction is moved further, such that in the configuration in which the first jaw (8.1) and the second jaw (8.2) are in their operative positions, the first pressing surface (11.1) of the first folding and pressing bar (9.1) and the second pressing surface (11.2) of the second folding and pressing bar (9.2) in an impact direction perpendicular to the planes of the first pressing surface (11.1) and the second pressing surface (11.2) can be moved forward in the direction of drive movement.

11. Device according to claim 10, characterized in that the at least one guide rail (17.1, 17.2) is pre-tensioned against the drive movement direction on the frame by means of a spring device (21.1, 21.2). (18) is stored.

12. Device according to one of claims 5 to 11, characterized in that the first handling and Pressure bar (9.1) and / or the second cover and Pressure bar (9.2) is made of an elastic material.

Images