Device for opening a package for filling

Abstract

Aspects of the present invention relate to a device and method for opening a package for filling. The package comprises opposing first and second panels defining a pocket therebetween. The device comprises a container configured to retain the package therein. The container comprises an aperture for receiving the package therethrough. The container is configured such that the package is retainable in a retained position in which the first panel is adjacent the aperture. The device comprises an engaging feature configured to engage the second panel of the package when the first panel is moved through the aperture from the retained position, to open the pocket for filling.

Description

[0001] Device for opening a package for filling

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a device for opening a package for filling. Aspects of the invention relate to a device, an assembly and a method.

[0004] Background

[0005] Products purchased by consumers remotely (e.g. via e-commerce) are typically packaged by a worker at a packing station in a distribution centre, before being shipped to the customer. The worker is usually required to manipulate a package (e.g. a shipping bag, pouch, mailer or envelope) by hand to open a mouth of the package so that the worker can then fill the package with the product via the open mouth, before sealing the package ready for shipment.

[0006] The need to open each package via such manual manipulation can be time consuming and limits the number of packages a worker can fill with product in any given period. Hence, it would be desirable to reduce the time needed for a worker to obtain an opened package ready for filling.

[0007] The present invention aims to provide one or more improvements over the prior art.

[0008] Summary of Invention

[0009] Aspects and embodiments of the invention provide a device for opening a package for filling, an assembly, and a method for opening a package for filling, as claimed in the appended claims.

[0010] According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a device for opening a package for filling. The package comprises opposing first and second panels defining a pocket therebetween. The device comprises a container configured to retain the package therein. The container comprises an aperture for receiving the package therethrough. Thecontainer is configured such that the package is retainable in a retained position in which the first panel is adjacent the aperture. The device comprises an engaging feature configured to engage the second panel of the package when the first panel is moved through the aperture from the retained position, to open the pocket for filling.

[0011] Advantageously, the engaging feature enables the package to be opened as the package is moved through the aperture, which allows a worker to open the package as it is retrieved from the container using one hand and fill the opened package pocket with their other hand. As such, the package can be filled easily and quickly by the worker, improving their packing efficiency.

[0012] The device may comprise a base and a front face. The front face may comprise the aperture.

[0013] Advantageously, such a configuration may make the device easier to use by a worker, e.g. when the base of the device is supported on a worktable adjacent the worker.

[0014] The front face may be substantially perpendicular to the base.

[0015] The front face may be inclined upwardly in a movement direction of the package through the aperture with respect to the base.

[0016] The front face may comprise the engaging feature.

[0017] Advantageously, such a configuration helps simplify construction of the device.

[0018] The engaging feature may be at or towards a top or bottom end of the aperture with respect to the base for engaging an upper or lower portion of the second panel respectively.

[0019] Advantageously, such a configuration may ensure that the package is oriented such that a mouth of the pocket is upwardly or downwardly facing, making it simpler to fill the pocket.

[0020] The engaging feature may be at or towards at least one side of the aperture with respect tothe base for engaging a lateral portion of the second panel.

[0021] The engaging feature may be at or towards a centerline of the aperture.

[0022] Advantageously, such a configuration may help to ensure that the package is opened reliably without needing too much force to move the package past the protrusion.

[0023] The engaging feature may comprise a protrusion for engaging the second panel.

[0024] Advantageously, such a configuration helps simplify construction, use and maintenance of the device, since it may have no moving parts.

[0025] The protrusion may project into the aperture.

[0026] Advantageously, such a configuration may enable the protrusion to help retain the package in the retained position, as well as help to make the device more compact.

[0027] The protrusion may project into the aperture from a first side of the aperture towards an opposing second side of the aperture. A minimum length of the aperture between the protrusion and the second side of the aperture may be between 75% and 95% of a corresponding maximum length between the first and second sides; optionally, between 85 and 95%, e.g. between 90 and 95%.

[0028] Advantageously, such configurations help ensure that the package can be reliably opened without requiring a high force to move the package through the aperture.

[0029] The protrusion may have a substantially curved profile in a plane normal to a movement direction of the package through the aperture.

[0030] Advantageously, such a configuration helps to reduce the risk that the protrusion will snag on and damage the package.The protrusion may have a substantially semi-elliptical or rectangular profile in a plane normal to a movement direction of the package through the aperture.

[0031] Advantageously, such a configuration helps to reduce the risk that the protrusion will snag on and damage the package.

[0032] The protrusion may comprise a smooth flat surface configured to engage the package.

[0033] Advantageously, such a configuration helps to reduce the risk that the protrusion will snag on and damage the package.

[0034] The protrusion may be formed from a plastic, such as acrylic.

[0035] The container may comprise a channel leading to the aperture. The channel may be configured such that the package is movable along the channel to the retained position.

[0036] Advantageously, the channel may provide a space to store multiple packages, as well as help guide the packages towards the aperture.

[0037] The channel may be inclined downwardly in a direction towards the aperture with respect to a base of the device.

[0038] Advantageously, such a configuration enables the next package of a stack of multiple packages to automatically move to the retained position under gravity, reducing the workload of the worker.

[0039] An inclination angle of the channel relative to the base of the device may be in the range of 5 to 60 degrees; optionally in the range of 10 to 30 degrees, e.g. approximately 20 degrees.

[0040] Advantageously, such inclination angles have been found to ensure that the package is automatically moved quickly along the channel to the retained position, whilst reducing the risk that the package will unintentionally move from the retained position through theaperture.

[0041] The device may further comprise a conveying mechanism configured to engage the package to convey the package along the channel to the retained position.

[0042] Advantageously, the conveying mechanism enables the package to automatically move to the retained position, which reduces the workload of the worker.

[0043] The conveying mechanism may be configured to apply a pressing force to the second panel of the package.

[0044] Advantageously, such a configuration may help to retain the package in the retained position.

[0045] The channel may comprise a pair of opposing side walls. The conveying mechanism may comprise a first pair of slots in the side walls such that each side wall includes one of the slots. Each slot may extend along the channel towards the aperture. The conveying mechanism may comprise a rod supported by the first pair of slots so as to extend across the channel. Each slot may be inclined downwardly in a direction towards the aperture with respect to a base of the device such that the rod applies the pressing force to the second panel of the package via gravity.

[0046] Advantageously, such a configuration provides a simple conveying mechanism having a single moving part, which makes it simpler to construct and maintain the device.

[0047] The conveying mechanism may comprise at least one further pair of slots in the sidewalls above or below the first pair, for supporting the rod.

[0048] Advantageously, such a configuration provides greater flexibility of the position where the rod applies the pressing force to the package.

[0049] An end of each slot furthest from the aperture may comprise an opening via which the rod is receivable in the slot in the direction towards the aperture.Advantageously, the openings may make it easier to insert the rod into the slots.

[0050] An end of each slot furthest from the aperture may comprise a catch configured to selectively retain the rod therein.

[0051] Advantageously, the catches enable the rod to be retained in a position spaced from the retained position to make it easier to refill the channel with packages.

[0052] Each catch may comprise a substantially hook-shaped recess for receiving the rod therein.

[0053] The channel may comprise a pair of opposing side walls. The container may comprise a front face comprising the aperture. The front face may extend between the side walls. The front face may be removably mounted to the side walls via a removable mounting arrangement.

[0054] Advantageously, such a configuration helps improve the modularity of the device, allowing different apertures to be used depending on the package to be opened.

[0055] The removable mounting arrangement may comprise one or more locking projections receivable in one or more corresponding recesses to removably mount each side wall to the front face.

[0056] The channel may comprise a base for supporting the package in the retained position. The base may be removably mounted to the side walls via a removable mounting arrangement.

[0057] Advantageously, such a configuration helps improve the modularity of the device.

[0058] The base and the front face may be unconnected.

[0059] The container may comprise one or more stops for retaining the package in the retained position.

[0060] The container may comprise a frame defining the aperture. The one or more stops maycomprise the frame.

[0061] Advantageously, the frame may engage a greater surface area of the package for better support thereof, helping reduce the risk that the package will pass through the aperture unintentionally.

[0062] The one or more stops may comprise the engaging feature.

[0063] Advantageously, such a configuration helps to better support the package in the retained position, helping reduce the risk that the package will pass through the aperture unintentionally.

[0064] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an assembly comprising the device of any preceding statement mounted to a worktable.

[0065] The worktable may form part of a packing bench.

[0066] According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for opening a package for filling. The method comprises: providing a package comprising opposing first and second panels defining a pocket therebetween; providing a device comprising a container configured to retain the package therein, the container comprising an aperture for receiving the package therethrough; retaining the package in the container in a retained position in which the first panel is adjacent the aperture; and moving the first panel of the package through the aperture from the retained position. The device comprises an engaging feature configured to engage the second panel of the package when the first panel is moved through the aperture from the retained position, to open the pocket for filling.

[0067] Within the scope of this application, it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and / or in the following description and drawings, and, in particular, the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. All embodiments and / or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and / or combination unless such featuresare incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and / or incorporate any feature of any other claim, although not originally claimed in that manner.

[0068] Further benefits and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of at least one exemplary embodiment for carrying out the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0069] Brief Description of Drawings

[0070] One or more embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0071] Figure 1 is a plan view of a package in an unopened state;

[0072] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an assembly including a device for opening a package for filling and a worktable according to an embodiment;

[0073] Figures 3 and 4 are perspective views of a method for opening the package of Figure 1 for filling using the device of Figure 2; and

[0074] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the device of Figure 2 including a magnified portion.

[0075] Detailed Description

[0076] Figure 1 shows a package 100. In this embodiment, the package 100 has been formed from a blank (not shown) of paper that has been folded and glued as required. As such, the package 100 is at least partially assembled. Typically, the package 100 is partially assembled (e.g. the blank of paper is folded and glued) in a first location by any suitable manual, automated or semi-automated process, for example, by using known packaging machinery such as a folder-gluer machine. By maintaining the packages 100 in a flat state as shown in Figure 1, they can be more easily stored and transported in bulk to a second location for filling. In Figure 1, the package 100 is also in an unopened state where it cannot yet be filled.

[0077] The package 100 includes first and second panels 100a, 100b that are joined to define apocket 102 therebetween. The pocket 102 defines a mouth 104 via which the pocket 102 can be filled. The package 100 further includes a closure 106, such as a flap, for closing the mouth 104. The package 100 may be considered fully assembled once the closure 106 closes the mouth 104.

[0078] In the illustrated embodiment, the second panel 100b includes the closure 106. The closure 106 is secured to the first panel 100a, after filling, to close the mouth 104.

[0079] The package 100 in the unopened state shown in Figure 1 has an overall width W1 and overall length LI. The overall length LI corresponds to the length of the second panel 100b between a longitudinal end of the closure 106 and an opposite longitudinal end of the second panel 100b. The first panel 100a has a length LI*. The overall length LI is equal to the sum of the length LI* of the first panel 100a and a length Lc of the closure 106.

[0080] In this embodiment, the package 100 is formed from paper. In alternative embodiments, the package 100 may be formed from any suitable foldable material (e.g. paperboard, card, cardboard, and / or plastic).

[0081] In some embodiments, the package 100 may include one or more additional panels connected to the first and second panels 100a, 100b so as to further define the pocket 102. For example, with reference to Figure 1, the package 100 may include a pair of opposing side panels extending between opposing left and right edges of the first and second panels 100a, 100b, and a rear panel extending between the bottom edges of the first and second panels 100a, 100b. The side panels and rear panel may be foldable such that the package 100 can be transformed between an unopened state in which the first and second panels 100a, 100b are adjacent each other and the area of the mouth 104 is minimal, to an opened state in which the first and second panels 100a, 100b are spaced from each other and the area of the mouth 104 is maximal. The mouth 104 may have a substantially rectangular profile in the opened state.

[0082] To fill the package 100, it is known for a worker to use both of their hands to manipulate the package 100 to open the mouth 104 and maintain the mouth 104 in an open state whilstsimultaneously filling the pocket 102. Such a process can be time consuming.

[0083] With reference to Figures 2 and 3, there is shown an assembly 1 including a device 10 for opening the package 100 for filling, and a worktable 2. The device 10 is mounted to the worktable 2. The worktable 2 may form part of a packing bench (e.g. a benchtop or a shelf of the packing bench). The device 10 includes a device base 11 which supports the device 10 upon the worktable 2. In the following, references to “upper”, “lower”, “upwardly”, “downwardly” and similar are used with respect to the device 10 in its orientation in Figures 2 to 4 in which the device 10 is supported on the worktable 2 via the device base 11.

[0084] The device 10 includes a container 12 configured to retain the package 100 therein. The container 12 may be formed from any suitable material, such as plastic or metal. The container 12 includes a front face 18, a container base 20 and a pair of opposing side walls 22. The front face 18 and the container base 20 extend between the side walls 22. In the illustrated embodiment, the container base 20 and the device base 11 are separate, but may be the same in alternative embodiments. The front face 18 includes an aperture 14 which is configured such that the package 100 is receivable therethrough. The container 12 is configured such that the package 100 is retainable in the container 12 in a retained position in which the first panel 100b is adjacent the aperture 14, as shown in Figures 3 and 4. The container base 20 supports the package 100 in the retained position.

[0085] In the illustrated embodiment, the front face 18 includes a frame 24 defining the aperture 14. The frame 24 includes a lower frame section 24a, a pair of opposing side frame sections 24b and an upper frame section 24c. In this embodiment, the frame 24 is substantially rectangular, but may be any suitable shape in other embodiments. The lower frame section 24a projects upwardly from the container base 20 and extends between the side walls 22. Each side frame section 24b projects laterally from a corresponding one of the side walls 22. The upper frame section 24d extends between the side walls 22 and is spaced from the lower frame section 24a via the side frame sections 24b. The frame 24 acts as a stop for retaining the package 100 in the retained position. The lower frame section 24a engages a lower portion of the package 100 so as to inhibit the package 100 passing through the aperture 14. A width W2 of the aperture 14 between the side frame sections 24b is less than the overallwidth W1 of the package 100. As such, at least one of the side frame sections 24b engages a corresponding lateral portion of the package 100 so as to inhibit the package 100 passing through the aperture 14. The package 100 is deformable so as to pass over the frame 24 and through the aperture 14, but is inhibited from passing through the aperture 14 in the unopened state shown in Figures 1 and 3 by the frame 24. The frame 24 may have a smooth flat surface for retaining the package 100 in the retained position, so as to reduce friction between the frame 24 and the package 100, to reduce the force needed to move the package 100 through the aperture 14.

[0086] In alternative embodiments (not shown), the container 12 may include one or more stops instead of or in addition to the frame 24 for retaining the package in the retained position. In some embodiments, the frame 24 may instead be a partial frame, e.g. not including one or more of the frame sections 24a-c. For example, the frame 24 may not include the lower frame section 24a, such that the container base 20 defines the aperture 14. In such embodiments, the container 12 may include an alternative stop on the container base 20 for retaining the package 100 in the retained position.

[0087] The device 10 includes an engaging feature 16 configured to engage the second panel 100b of the package 100 when the first panel 100a is moved through the aperture 14 from the retained position in a movement direction A, so as to open the mouth 104 of the pocket 102 for filling with a product 200 (see Figure 4). As such, the device 10 enables the package 100 to be easily and rapidly opened via a single hand of a worker manipulating the first panel 100a of the package 100 only. This enables the worker to use their remaining hand to fill the opened pocket 102 with the product 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the engaging feature 16 does not engage the first panel 100a.

[0088] In the illustrated embodiment, the engaging feature 16 also acts as a stop for retaining the package 100 in the retained position, but may be spaced from the package 100 in the retained position in alternative embodiments.

[0089] In the illustrated embodiment, the engaging feature 16 includes a protrusion 16. The protrusion 16 is fixed relative to the container 12. As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the protrusion16 engages the closure 106 of the second panel 100b when the package 100 is moved through the aperture 14 so as to open the mouth 104 of the pocket 102, to enable the pocket 102 to be filled with the product 200.

[0090] In the illustrated embodiment, the upper frame section 24c of the frame 24 includes the protrusion 16. The protrusion 16 projects downwardly into the aperture 14 from the remainder of the upper frame section 24c by a distance B. As such, the protrusion 16 is at a top end of the aperture 14 so as to be engageable with an upper portion of the closure 106.

[0091] In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusion 16 is positioned at or towards a centerline of the aperture 14, but may be offset from the centerline in other embodiments.

[0092] The aperture 14 has a maximum length L2 between the lower and upper frame sections 24a, 24c, and a minimum length L2* between the lower frame section 24a and the protrusion 16. In this embodiment, the maximum length L2 is the sum of the minimum length L2* and the distance B. The selection of a ratio between the minimum length L2* and the maximum length L2 may be dependent on one or more factors, such as a ratio of the overall length LI of the package 100 to the length Lc of the closure 106, and / or a coefficient of friction between the package 100 and the protrusion 16. For the package 100 of Figure 1, the minimum length L2* may be between 85 and 95%, e.g. between 90 and 95%, of the maximum length L2. Such minimum lengths L2* have been found to ensure that the package 100 of Figure 1 can be reliably opened without needing too much force to move the package 100 through aperture 14, and so helps prevent the package 100 becoming damaged when being opened. Alternative ratios between the minimum length L2* and the maximum length L2 may be found to be more beneficial for other packages 100. For example, in some embodiments, the minimum length L2* may be between 75 and 95% of the maximum length L2.

[0093] In the illustrated embodiment, the minimum length L2* is greater than the length LI* of the first panel 100a. As such, the protrusion 16 does not engage the first panel 100a when the package 100 is moved through the aperture 14.In the illustrated embodiment, the device 10 is configured such that only the protrusion 16 engages the second panel 100b of the package 100 when it is moved through the aperture 14 from the retained position. This helps to reduce the force needed to move the package 100 through the aperture 14.

[0094] The protrusion 16 has a curved profile in a plane normal to the movement direction A. Advantageously, this helps to reduce the risk that the protrusion 16 will snag and damage the package 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusion 16 has a substantially semielliptical profile in the plane normal to the movement direction A, but may have any suitable profile in alternative embodiments (e.g. rectangular).

[0095] The protrusion 16 may include a smooth (i.e. low-friction) flat surface configured to engage the package 100, e.g. formed from a plastic, such as acrylic. Again, this helps to reduce the risk that the protrusion 16 will snag and damage the package 100.

[0096] In the present embodiment, the protrusion 16 is formed as part of the frame 24. In alternative embodiments, the protrusion 16 may be provided as a separate component to the frame 24 and mounted to the container 12. In some embodiments, the engaging feature 16 may include a plurality of protrusions.

[0097] In alternative embodiments, the protrusion 16 may be at or towards a bottom end of the aperture 14 with respect to the device base 11 so as to engage a lower portion of the closure 106. For example, the lower frame section 24a of the frame 24 may include the protrusion 16. In such embodiments, the package 100 in the retained position is oriented such that the closure 106 is adjacent the container base 20.

[0098] In alternative embodiments, the protrusion 16 may additionally or alternatively be at or towards one lateral side of the aperture 14 with respect to the device base 11 so as to engage a lateral portion of the closure 106. For example, the protrusion 16 may extend from a corner of the frame 24. In such embodiments, the device 10 may include two or more protrusions, including one protrusion in each of the upper or lower left and right comers of the aperture 14.In alternative embodiments (not shown), the engaging feature 16 may include any suitable means for engaging the second panel 100b instead of or in addition to the protrusion 16, e.g. such as a wheel, or a means for directing a jet of gas to engage the second panel 100b.

[0099] The container 12 includes a channel 26 leading to the aperture 14. The channel 26 is configured such that the package 100 is movable along the channel 26 to the retained position. Advantageously, the channel 26 provides a space to store a stack of packages 100 as shown in Figures 3 and 4. In the illustrated embodiment, the channel 26 is defined by the side walls 22 and the container base 20 of the container 12.

[0100] In the illustrated embodiment, the channel 26 is inclined downwardly in the direction A towards the aperture 14. As such, the package 100 is automatically movable along the channel 26 towards the retained position under the action of gravity, which reduces the workload of the worker. An inclination angle a between the container base 20 and the device base 11 may be in the range of 5 to 60 degrees, e.g. 10 to 30 degrees, e.g. approximately 20 degrees. Such inclination angles have been found to ensure that the package 100 is automatically moved quickly along the channel 26 to the retained position, whilst reducing the risk that the package 100 will unintentionally move from the retained position through the aperture 14.

[0101] In the illustrated embodiment, the front face 18 of the container 12 is inclined upwardly in the direction A, such that the front face 18 faces in a direction having a downward component. This may make it more comfortable for a worker to use the device 10 for opening the package 100, especially when the worktable 2 is at or towards head height of the worker. An inclination angle P of the front face 18 relative to the device base 11 may be in the range of 90 to 120 degrees, e.g. approximately 110 degrees. In the illustrated embodiment, the front face 18 is substantially perpendicular to the container base 20, but may not be in other embodiments. In alternative embodiments, the front face 18 may have any suitable orientation (e.g. substantially perpendicular to the device base 11).

[0102] The device 10 includes a conveying mechanism 28 configured to engage the package 100 soas to convey the package 100 along the channel 26 to the retained position. Advantageously, the conveying mechanism 28 enables the next package 100 of the stack of packages 100 to automatically move to the retained position, which reduces the workload of the worker.

[0103] In the illustrated embodiment, the conveying mechanism 28 includes a first pair of slots 30a in the side walls 22 such that each side wall 22 includes one of the slots 30a. Each slot 30a extends along the channel 26 towards the aperture 14. The conveying mechanism 28 further includes a rod 32 supported by the first pair of slots 30a so as to extend across the channel 26. Each slot is inclined downwardly in the direction A towards the aperture 14 such that the rod 32 applies a pressing force to the second panel 100b of the package 100 via gravity, as shown in Figures 3 and 4. Advantageously, such a conveying mechanism 28 includes only one moving part and so is simple to manufacture and maintain. In alternative embodiments, any suitable conveying mechanism may be used. For example, an alternative conveying mechanism may include a biasing means, such as a spring, configured to apply a pressing force to the second panel 100b.

[0104] In the illustrated embodiment, the slots 30 are substantially parallel to the container base 20. As such, the inclination angle between the slots 30a and the device base 11 is the same as the inclination angle a between the container base 20 and the device base 11. In alternative embodiments, the slots 30 may be non-parallel to the container base 20, and may have an inclination angle with respect to the device base 11 in the range of 10 to 30 degrees, e.g. approximately 20 degrees.

[0105] The rod 32 may be formed from a high-density material, e.g. a metal such as lead, to increase its mass and so increase the pressing force applied to the second panel 100b.

[0106] It has been found that the optimum vertical position on the package 100 at which the pressing force of the conveying mechanism 28 is applied is dependent on the characteristics of the package 100, such as its rigidity. As such, when the device 100 is used with different packages 100, it may be beneficial to change the height of the rod 32 with respect to the container base 20. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the conveying mechanism 28 includes a second pair of slots 30b and a third pair of slots 30c. The second pair 30b areabove the first pair of slots 30a. The third pair 30c is above the first and second pairs 30a, 30b. As such, the rod 32 can be supported on any of the pairs of slots 30a-c depending on the package 100 in the container 12. In alternative embodiments, the conveying mechanism 28 may include only one, two, or more than three pairs of slots 30.

[0107] In the illustrated embodiment, the three pairs of slots 30a-c are substantially parallel, but may not be in alternative embodiments.

[0108] An end of each slot 30 furthest from the aperture 14 includes a catch 34 configured to selectively retain the rod 32 therein. Advantageously, the catches 34 enable the rod 32 to be retained in a position towards an opposite end of the channel 26 from the aperture 14 so as to make it easier to refill the channel 26 with packages 100. In the illustrated embodiment, each catch 34 includes a substantially hook-shaped recess for receiving the rod 32 therein, but may have any suitable configuration in other embodiments.

[0109] In some embodiments, the end of each slot 30 furthest from the aperture 14 may additionally or alternatively include an opening via which the rod 32 is receivable in the slot 30 in the direction A towards the aperture 14. Such openings may make it easier to insert the rod 32 into, and remove the rod 32 from, the slots 30. With further reference to Figure 5, the front face 18 is removably mounted to the side walls 22 via a first removable mounting arrangement 36. Advantageously, such a configuration improves the modularity of the device 10, enabling different apertures 14 (e.g. having different sizes (e.g. lengths L2, L2*) and / or shapes) and / or different engaging features 16 (e.g. having different sizes and / or shapes) to be used depending on the package 100 to be opened.

[0110] In the illustrated embodiment, the first removable mounting arrangement 36 include a plurality of locking projections 40 on the front face 18. Each locking projection 40 is receivable in a corresponding hole 42 in one of the side walls 22 to removably mount the front face 18 to said side wall 22. Each locking projection 40 defines a locking recess 46 at one end thereof. To removably mount the front face 18 to each side wall 22, each locking projection 40 is inserted into the corresponding hole 44 in a first direction XI, and then the front face 18 and side wall 22 are translated relative to each other in a second direction X2perpendicular to the first direction XI until the side wall 22 is received in the locking recess 46, preventing the locking projection 40 being removed from the hole 42 in the first direction XI. Advantageously, such a configuration enables the front face 18 to be removably mounted to the side walls 22 by hand, i.e. without requiring any tools.

[0111] In alternative embodiments, the first removable mounting arrangement 36 may have any suitable configuration, e.g. using one or more fasteners.

[0112] In the illustrated embodiment, the container base 20 is removably mounted to the side walls 22 via a second removable mounting arrangement 38. This further improves the modularity of the device 10. For example, the front face 18, the container base 20, and the side walls 22 may be formed from different materials. In the illustrated embodiment, the second removable mounting arrangement 38 is similar to the first removable mounting arrangement 36, but they may be different in other embodiments.

[0113] Since the front face 18 and the container base 20 are removably mounted to the side walls 22, the front face 18 and the container base 20 can be easily replaced with corresponding components having different widths suited to the width W1 of the package 100 to be opened via the device 10.

[0114] In alternative embodiments, one of both of the front face 18 and the container base 20 may be permanently mounted to the side walls 22, e.g. via bonding, casting, additive manufacturing, and / or may be monolithically integrally formed.

[0115] In the illustrated embodiment, the container base 20 and the front face 18 are unconnected. As such, the front face 18 and the container base 20 can be removed from the side walls 22 independently from each other, improving the modularity of the device 10. In alternative embodiments, the container base 20 and the front face 18 may be removably or permanently connected to each other.

[0116] In some embodiments, at least part of the container 12 (e.g. one or both of the side walls 22) may be formed from a transparent or translucent material, e.g. glass or a transparent ortranslucent plastic such as acrylic. This helps a worker more easily identify when the container 12 needs to be refilled with packages 100.

[0117] In the following a method for opening the package 100 using the device 10 will be described with reference to Figures 3 and 4.

[0118] In a first step, one or more packages 100 are inserted into the channel 26 of the container 12, as shown in Figure 3, such that one package 100 is retained in the retained position. For example, the rod 32 of the conveying mechanism 28 may be first retained in the catches 34, and then the one or more packages 100 inserted into the channel 26 from an upper entrance 50 to the channel 26. Alternatively, the rod 32 may be removed from the container 12, and the one or packages 100 inserted into the channel 26 from a rear entrance 52 to the channel 26 opposite the front face 18. The rod 32 may then be inserted into the appropriate slots 30 such that the rod 32 applies the pressing force to the one or more packages 100.

[0119] In a subsequent step, the first panel 100a of the package 100 in the retained position is moved through the aperture 14, as shown in Figure 4. As the first panel 100a moves through the aperture 14, the engaging feature 16 engages the second panel 100b of the package 100 to open the mouth 104 of the pocket 102 of the package 100 for filling with a product 200.

[0120] In a subsequent step, the first panel 100a is moved through the aperture 14 until the entire package 100 has moved through the aperture 14 and is free from the device 10. The sloped channel 26 and the conveying mechanism 28 then move the next package 100 in the stack of packages 100, if there is one, to the retained position.

[0121] Where the word 'or' appears, this is to be construed to mean 'and / or'. This is such that items referred to are not necessarily mutually exclusive and may be used in any appropriate combination.

[0122] The invention has been described above with reference to one or more specific embodiments. However, the description is not exhaustive, and the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described. Various changes and modifications can be made without departingfrom the scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A device for opening a package for filling, the package comprising opposing first and second panels defining a pocket therebetween, the device comprising a container configured to retain the package therein,wherein the container comprises an aperture for receiving the package therethrough, wherein the container is configured such that the package is retainable in a retained position in which the first panel is adjacent the aperture, andwherein the device comprises an engaging feature configured to engage the second panel of the package when the first panel is moved through the aperture from the retained position, to open the pocket for filling.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the device comprises a base and a front face, and wherein the front face comprises the aperture; optionally, wherein the front face is substantially perpendicular to the base, or inclined upwardly in a movement direction of the package through the aperture with respect to the base.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the front face comprises the engaging feature.

4. The device of claims 2 or 3, wherein the engaging feature is at or towards a top or bottom end of the aperture with respect to the base for engaging an upper or lower portion of the second panel respectively, and / or at or towards at least one side of the aperture with respect to the base for engaging a lateral portion of the second panel.

5. The device of claim 4, wherein the engaging feature is at or towards a centerline of the aperture.

6. The device of any preceding claim, wherein the engaging feature comprises a protrusion for engaging the second panel.

7. The device of claim 6, wherein the protrusion projects into the aperture.

8. The device of claim 7, wherein the protrusion projects into the aperture from a first side of the aperture towards an opposing second side of the aperture, wherein a minimum length of the aperture between the protrusion and the second side of the aperture is between 75% and 95% of a corresponding maximum length between the first and second sides; optionally, between 85 and 95%, e.g. between 90 and 95%.

9. The device of any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the protrusion has a substantially curved profile in a plane normal to a movement direction of the package through the aperture; optionally, wherein the protrusion has a substantially semi-elliptical or rectangular profile in said plane.

10. The device of any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the protrusion comprises a smooth flat surface configured to engage the package; optionally, wherein the protrusion is formed from a plastic, such as acrylic.

11. The device of any preceding claim, wherein the container comprises a channel leading to the aperture, wherein the channel is configured such that the package is movable along the channel to the retained position.

12. The device of claim 11, wherein the channel is inclined downwardly in a direction towards the aperture with respect to a base of the device.

13. The device of claim 12, wherein an inclination angle of the channel relative to the base of the device is in the range of 5 to 60 degrees; optionally in the range of 10 to 30 degrees, e.g. approximately 20 degrees.

14. The device of any one of claims 11 to 13, further comprising a conveying mechanism configured to engage the package to convey the package along the channel to the retained position.

15. The device of claim 14, wherein the conveying mechanism is configured to apply a pressing force to the second panel of the package.

16. The device of claim 15, wherein the channel comprises a pair of opposing side walls, wherein the conveying mechanism comprises:a first pair of slots in the side walls such that each side wall includes one of the slots, each slot extending along the channel towards the aperture; anda rod supported by the first pair of slots so as to extend across the channel, wherein each slot is inclined downwardly in a direction towards the aperture with respect to a base of the device such that the rod applies the pressing force to the second panel of the package via gravity.

17. The device of claim 16, wherein the conveying mechanism comprises at least one further pair of slots in the sidewalls above or below the first pair, for supporting the rod.

18. The device of claims 16 or 17, wherein an end of each slot furthest from the aperture comprises: an opening via which the rod is receivable in the slot in the direction towards the aperture; and / or a catch configured to selectively retain the rod therein; optionally, wherein each catch comprises a substantially hook-shaped recess for receiving the rod therein.

19. The device of any one of claims 11 to 18, wherein the channel comprises a pair of opposing side walls, wherein the container comprises a front face comprising the aperture, the front face extending between the side walls, and wherein the front face is removably mounted to the side walls via a removable mounting arrangement; optionally, wherein the removable mounting arrangement comprises one or more locking projections receivable in one or more corresponding recesses to removably mount each side wall to the front face.

20. The device of claim 19, wherein the channel comprises a base for supporting the package in the retained position, and wherein the base is removably mounted to the side walls via a removable mounting arrangement; optionally, wherein the base and the front face are unconnected.

21. The device of any preceding claim, wherein the container comprises one or more stops for retaining the package in the retained position.

22. The device of claim 21, wherein the container comprises a frame defining the aperture, and wherein the one or more stops comprises the frame.

23. The device of claims 21 or 22, wherein the one or more stops comprises the engaging feature.

24. An assembly comprising the device of any preceding claim mounted to a worktable; optionally, wherein the worktable forms part of a packing bench.

25. A method for opening a package for filling, the method comprising the steps of: providing a package comprising opposing first and second panels defining a pocket therebetween;providing a device comprising a container configured to retain the package therein, the container comprising an aperture for receiving the package therethrough;retaining the package in the container in a retained position in which the first panel is adjacent the aperture; andmoving the first panel of the package through the aperture from the retained position, wherein the device comprises an engaging feature configured to engage the second panel of the package when the first panel is moved through the aperture from the retained position, to open the pocket for filling.

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