Tube carrying unit, tube transporting system and method for operating a tube carrying unit

Abstract

A tube carrying unit comprising a base structure and a support structure. The tube carrying unit is configured for carrying a tube packaging upon transportation from a tube filling unit to a tube picking unit. The base structure is configured for supporting a first end section of the tube packaging and the support structure is configured for supporting a second end section of the tube packaging arranged at a distance from the first end section. The support structure is movably arranged relative to the base structure and configured for being displaced relative to the base structure into a transporting position depending on a length of the tube packaging.

Description

[0001] TUBE CARRYING UNIT, TUBE TRANSPORTING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPERATING A TUBE CARRYING UNIT

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a tube carrying unit. The tube carrying unit is carrying a tube packaging upon transportation from a tube filling unit to a tube picking unit. The disclosure further relates to a tube transporting system comprising a transporting unit and at least one tube carrying unit, and a method for operating a tube carrying unit.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Tube carrying units are used for transporting tube packagings, such as flexible sealed tube packagings, from a tube filling unit to a tube picking unit. A plurality of tube carrying units are commonly attached to a transporting unit, for example an endless conveyor structure, and the plurality of tube carrying units are transported along the transporting unit. Filled and sealed tube packagings are placed on the tube carrying units, and the tube carrying units usually have a trough-like configuration corresponding to the shape and size of the tube packagings, for a secure transport of the tube packagings from the tube filling unit to the tube picking unit. If the transporting unit is transporting tube packagings of a specific length, and there is a need for transporting tube packagings of a different length, the plurality of tube carrying units are removed from the transporting unit and replaced with tube carrying units having a different size. The replacement of tube carrying units is performed manually, and the tube carrying unit changing operation is inefficient and time consuming, especially since a high number of tube carrying units commonly are arranged on the transporting unit.

[0006] There is thus a need for improving the traditional changing operation of the tube carrying units from one size to another size, in order to secure efficient transportation of tube packagings having different lengths.SUMMARY

[0007] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a tube carrying unit, a tube transporting system, and a method for operating a tube carrying unit, where the previously mentioned problems are avoided. This object is at least partly achieved by the features of the independent claims. The dependent claims contain further developments of the tube carrying unit, the tube transporting system, and the method for operating a tube carrying unit.

[0008] The disclosure concerns a tube carrying unit comprising a base structure and a support structure. The tube carrying unit is configured for carrying a tube packaging upon transportation from a tube filling unit to a tube picking unit. The base structure is configured for supporting a first end section of the tube packaging and the support structure is configured for supporting a second end section of the tube packaging arranged at a distance from the first end section. The support structure is movably arranged relative to the base structure and configured for being displaced relative to the base structure into a transporting position depending on a length of the tube packaging.

[0009] Advantages with these features are that with tube carrying units having a movably arranged support structure relative to the base structure, there is no need for replacing the tube carrying units when changing the transportation of tube packagings having one length to tube packagings having a different length. The tube packagings may be configured as flexible sealed tube packagings filled with a substance, and upon transportation from the tube filling unit to the tube picking unit it is important that the tube packagings are transported carefully. By moving the support structure relative to the base structure, the tube carrying units are easily adjusted into different transporting positions for a fast and simple adaptation to different lengths of tube packagings. In this way, the tube carrying units are providing a reliable and steady support for the tube packagings. The adjustment of the tube carrying units is a fast and efficient operation compared to fully replacing the tube carrying units, especially when a high number of tube carrying units are arranged on the transporting unit. The tube carrying units are when adjusted to the transporting position enabling careful transporting of the tube packagings from the tube filling unit to the tube picking unit.In one embodiment, the tube carrying unit comprises a linear slide structure. The linear slide structure comprises a rail arranged on the base structure and a slot arranged in the support structure. The rail is configured for being arranged in the slot, enabling sliding movement of the support structure relative to the base structure along the rail. The linear slide structure with the rail and the slot is enabling a simple and efficient adjustment of the support structure relative to the base structure. The support structure can be easily adjusted through a sliding movement of the support structure along the rail for efficient adjustment into different transporting positions.

[0010] In one embodiment, the tube carrying unit comprises a locking unit. In a locked state, the locking unit is configured for locking the support structure to the base structure, preventing movement of the support structure relative to the base structure. In an unlocked state, the locking unit is enabling movement of the support structure relative to the base structure. The locking unit is efficiently locking the support structure to the base structure in the locked state for a reliable transportation of the tube packagings. To displace the support structure relative to the base structure, the locking unit is simply arranged in the unlocked state. In this way, the support structure can be positioned relative to the base structure in the unlocked state to match a specific tube packaging length. When the support structure has reached a correct transporting position based on the length of the tube packaging, the locking unit is arranged in the locked state for a secure connection of the support structure to the base structure.

[0011] In one embodiment, the locking unit comprises a locking element arranged in the support structure in connection to the slot. The locking element is in engagement with the rail in the locked state, preventing movement of the support structure relative to the base structure along the rail. The locking element is disengaged from the rail in the unlocked state enabling movement of the support structure relative to the base structure along the rail. The arrangement of the locking element in the support structure in connection to the slot is enabling the engagement between the locking element and the rail. The locking element is in the locked state efficiently engaging the rail for a secure locking engagement, and in the unlocked state, the locking element is disengaged from the rail for a simple adjustment of the support structure relative to the base structure along the rail.

[0012] In one embodiment, the locking unit further comprises a spring arranged between the support structure and the locking element. The locking element is arranged as aspring loaded pushing rod. The locking element is engaging the rail in the locked state by a spring force exerted onto the locking element by the spring. The locking element is configured for being disengaged from the rail in the unlocked state, by means of a pushing action onto the locking element against the spring force. The spring is efficiently pushing the locking element towards the rail in the locked state, and the spring is in this way enabling the locking engagement between the support structure and the base structure through the engagement between the locking element and the rail. By pushing the locking element in a direction against the spring force, the locking element is disengaged from the rail and the locking unit is arranged in the unlocked state.

[0013] In one embodiment, the rail comprises a toothed section arranged along a side edge of the rail. The locking element comprises a toothed area configured for being in engagement with the toothed section in the locked state and disengaged from the toothed section in the unlocked state. The toothed section and the toothed area are efficiently engaging each other in the locked state for a strong locking engagement. By disengaging the toothed section and the toothed area from each other, the support structure can be adjusted relative to the base structure into a new transporting position.

[0014] In one embodiment, the first end section is a cap section of the tube packaging and the second end section is a seal section of the tube packaging. Upon transportation, the base structure is supporting the cap section and the support structure is supporting the seal section.

[0015] In one embodiment, the support structure comprises one or more tube supporting elements. The one or more tube supporting elements are arranged as inclined support surfaces configured for holding the tube packaging in an inclined position. The one or more tube supporting elements are configured for supporting a seal arranged at the second end section of the tube packaging.

[0016] The disclosure further concerns a tube transporting system comprising a transporting unit and at least one tube carrying unit. The tube carrying unit comprises a base structure and a support structure. The transporting unit is arranged as an endless conveyor structure, and the at least one tube carrying unit is attached to the transporting unit and configured for carrying a tube packaging upon transportationfrom a tube filling unit to a tube picking unit. The base structure is configured for supporting a first end section of the tube packaging and the support structure is configured for supporting a second end section of the tube packaging arranged at a distance from the first end section. The support structure is movably arranged relative to the base structure and configured for being displaced relative to the base structure into a transporting position depending on a length of the tube packaging.

[0017] The transporting unit is efficiently transporting the at least one tube carrying unit from the tube filling unit to the tube picking unit. With the tube carrying units having a movably arranged support structure relative to the base structure, there is no need for replacing the tube carrying units when changing the transportation of tube packagings having one length to tube packagings having a different length. By moving the support structure relative to the base structure, the tube carrying units are easily adjusted into different transporting positions for a fast and simple adaptation to different lengths of tube packagings. The adjustment of the tube carrying units is a fast and efficient operation compared to fully replacing the tube carrying units, especially when a high number of tube carrying units are arranged on the transporting unit. The tube carrying units are enabling steady and reliable transporting of the tube packagings from the tube filling unit to the tube picking unit.

[0018] In one embodiment, the transporting unit is configured fortransporting the at least one tube carrying unit from the tube picking unit to the tube filling unit.

[0019] In one embodiment, the transporting system comprises a positioning unit arranged between the tube picking unit and the tube filling unit. The positioning unit is configured for displacing the support structure relative to the base structure into the transporting position depending on the length of the tube packaging. The adjustment of the tube carrying units are enabled by the positioning unit, and the positioning unit is displacing the support structure relative to the base structure into an optimized transporting position adapted to the length of the tube packagings to be carried by the tube carrying units.

[0020] In one embodiment, the tube carrying unit comprises a linear slide structure. The linear slide structure comprises a rail arranged on the base structure and a slot arranged in the support structure. The rail is configured for being arranged in the slot, enabling sliding movement of the support structure relative to the base structure alongthe rail. The tube carrying unit comprises a locking unit. In a locked state, the locking unit is configured for locking the support structure to the base structure, preventing movement of the support structure relative to the base structure along the rail. In an unlocked state, the locking unit is enabling movement of the support structure relative to the base structure along the rail. The positioning unit comprises a movable gripping unit. The positioning unit is configured for displacing the locking unit from the locked state to the unlocked state followed by a movement of the support structure relative to the base structure along the rail by means of the gripping unit. The movable gripping unit is in this way unlocking the locking unit and further displacing the support structure relative to the base structure along the rail for a simple and reliable adjustment of the tube carrying units.

[0021] In one embodiment, the locking unit comprises a locking element arranged in the support structure in connection to the slot. The locking element is in engagement with the rail in the locked state, preventing movement of the support structure relative to the base structure along the rail. The locking element is disengaged from the rail in the unlocked state, enabling movement of the support structure relative to the base structure along the rail. The gripping unit is configured for engaging the locking element when displacing the locking unit from the locked state to the unlocked state. The gripping unit is engaging the locking element for displacing the locking element into a position where the locking element is disengaged from the rail, enabling movement of the support structure relative to the base structure along the rail. The gripping unit may be arranged with a first grip member and a second grip member that are engaging the locking element for displacing the locking unit from the locked state to the unlocked state.

[0022] In one embodiment, the locking unit further comprises a spring arranged between the support structure and the locking element. The locking element is arranged as a spring loaded pushing rod. The locking element is engaging the rail in the locked state by a spring force exerted onto the locking element by the spring. The locking element is configured for being disengaged from the rail in the unlocked state, by means of a pushing action onto the locking element against the spring force. The gripping unit is configured for exerting the pushing action against the spring force onto the locking element, when displacing the locking unit from the locked state to the unlocked state. The gripping unit is in this way efficiently displacing the locking unit from the lockedstate to the unlocked state by a simple pushing action onto the locking element against the spring force.

[0023] In one embodiment, the rail comprises a toothed section arranged along a side edge of the rail. The locking element comprises a toothed area configured for being in engagement with the toothed section in the locked state and disengaged from the toothed section in the unlocked state. The toothed section and the toothed area are efficiently engaging each other in the locked state for a strong locking engagement. By disengaging the toothed section and the toothed area from each other, the support structure can be adjusted relative to the base structure into a new position.

[0024] In one embodiment, the support structure comprises one or more tube supporting elements. The one or more tube supporting elements are arranged as inclined support surfaces configured for holding the tube packaging in an inclined position. The one or more tube supporting elements are configured for supporting a seal arranged at the second end section of the tube packaging.

[0025] The disclosure further concerns a method for operating a tube carrying unit comprising a base structure and a support structure. The tube carrying unit is arranged on a transporting unit and configured for carrying a tube packaging upon transportation from a tube filling unit to a tube picking unit. The base structure is supporting a first end section of the tube packaging and the support structure is supporting a second end section of the tube packaging arranged at a distance from the first end section. The support structure is movably arranged relative to the base structure. The method comprises the step: displacing the support structure relative to the base structure into a transporting position depending on a length of the tube packaging.

[0026] Advantages with the method is that by displacing the support structure relative to the base structure, there is no need for replacing the tube carrying units when changing the transportation of tube packagings having one length to tube packagings having a different length. By moving the support structure relative to the base structure, the tube carrying units are easily adjusted into different transporting positions for a fast and simple adaptation to different lengths of tube packagings. The adjustment of the tube carrying units is a fast and efficient operation compared to fully replacing the tube carrying units, especially when a high number of tube carrying units are arranged onthe transporting unit. The tube carrying units are enabling a secure transport of the tube packagings from the tube filling unit to the tube picking unit.

[0027] In one embodiment, the tube carrying unit comprises a linear slide structure. The linear slide structure comprises a rail arranged on the base structure and a slot arranged in the support structure. The rail is arranged in the slot enabling sliding movement of the support structure relative to the base structure along the rail. The tube carrying unit comprises a locking unit. The method further comprises the steps: locking the support structure to the base structure by the locking unit in a locked state for preventing movement of the support structure relative to the base structure along the rail; and unlocking the support structure from the base structure by the locking unit in an unlocked state for enabling movement of the support structure relative to the base structure along the rail. The linear slide structure with the rail and the slot is enabling a simple and efficient adjustment of the support structure relative to the base structure. The support structure can be easily adjusted through a sliding movement of the support structure along the rail for efficient adjustment into different transporting positions. The locking unit is efficiently locking the support structure to the base structure in the locked state for a reliable transportation of the tube packagings. To displace the support structure relative to the base structure, the locking unit is simply arranged in the unlocked state. In this way, the support structure can be positioned relative to the base structure in the unlocked state to match a specific tube packaging length.

[0028] In one embodiment, the locking unit comprises a locking element arranged in the support structure in connection to the slot. The method further comprises the steps: engaging the locking element with the rail in the locked state preventing movement of the support structure relative to the base structure along the rail; and disengaging the locking element from the rail in the unlocked state enabling movement of the support structure relative to the base structure along the rail. The locking element is in the locked state efficiently engaging the rail for a secure locking engagement. In the unlocked state, the locking element is disengaged from the rail for a simple adjustment of the support structure relative to the base structure.

[0029] In one embodiment, the locking unit further comprises a spring arranged between the support structure and the locking element. The locking element is arranged as a spring loaded pushing rod. The method further comprises the steps: engaging thelocking element with the rail in the locked state by a spring force exerted onto the locking element by the spring; disengaging the locking element from the rail in the unlocked state by a pushing action onto the locking element against the spring force. The spring is efficiently pushing the locking element towards the rail in the locked state, and the spring is in this way enabling the locking engagement between the support structure and the base structure through the engagement between the locking element and the rail. By pushing the locking element in a direction against the spring force, the locking element is disengaged from the rail and the locking unit is arranged in the unlocked state.

[0030] In one embodiment, the rail comprises a toothed section arranged along a side edge of the rail. The locking element comprises a toothed area. The method further comprises the steps: engaging the toothed area with the toothed section in the locked state; and disengaging the toothed area from the toothed section in the unlocked state. The toothed section and the toothed area are efficiently engaging each other in the locked state for a strong locking engagement. By disengaging the toothed section and the toothed area from each other, the support structure can be adjusted relative to the base structure into a new position.

[0031] In one embodiment, the method further comprises the step: transporting the at least one tube carrying unit from the tube picking unit to the tube filling unit with the transporting unit.

[0032] In one embodiment, the support structure comprises one or more tube supporting elements, where the one or more tube supporting elements are arranged as inclined support surfaces configured for supporting a seal arranged at the second end section of the tube packaging. The method further comprises the step: holding the tube packaging in an inclined position by the inclined support surfaces of the one or more tube supporting elements.

[0033] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0034] The disclosure will be described in detail in the following, with reference to the attached drawings, in whichFig. 1a-b show schematically, in perspective side views, a tube transporting system comprising a transporting unit and a tube carrying unit, and a tube transporting system comprising a transporting unit and a plurality of tube carrying units carrying tube packagings from a tube filling unit to a tube picking unit,

[0035] Fig. 2 shows schematically, in a perspective view, the tube carrying unit with a base structure and a support structure, where the tube carrying unit is carrying a tube packaging,

[0036] Fig. 3 shows schematically, in a perspective view, the tube carrying unit with the base structure and the support structure, where the tube carrying unit is carrying the tube packaging,

[0037] Fig. 4a-b show schematically, in cross-sectional side views, a locking unit of the tube carrying unit,

[0038] Fig. 5a-b show schematically, in cross-sectional views from above, the locking unit of the tube carrying unit,

[0039] Fig. 6a-c show schematically, in perspective views, different operational steps of a gripping unit operating the locking unit for displacing the support structure relative to the base structure,

[0040] Fig. 7a-c show schematically, in cross-sectional views, different operational steps of the gripping unit operating the locking unit for displacing the support structure relative to the base structure, and

[0041] Fig. 8a-d show schematically, in perspective views and in a side view, the tube carrying unit with tube supporting elements, and the support structure with tube supporting elements.

[0042] DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

[0043] Various aspects of the disclosure will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the appended drawings to illustrate and not to limit the disclosure, wherein likedesignations denote like elements, and variations of the described aspects are not restricted to the specifically shown embodiments, but are applicable on other variations of the disclosure.

[0044] Figure 1a shows a schematic view of a tube transporting system S comprising a transporting unit T and a tube carrying unit 1. The tube carrying unit 1 is attached to the transporting unit T and configured for carrying a tube packaging upon transportation along the transporting unit T. In the illustrated embodiment, the transporting unit T is arranged as an endless conveyor structure. The endless conveyor structure may have any design or configuration suitable for carrying the tube carrying unit 1. The transporting unit T has an upper side SUP and a lower side SLO, and the transporting unit T is transporting the tube carrying unit 1 in an endless loop along the upper side SUP and the lower side SLO in a transporting direction D. The transporting unit T may be driven by any suitable drive arrangement, such as an electric motor.

[0045] The tube packaging P may have any suitable configuration. Suitably, the tube packaging is configured as a flexible sealed tube packaging P filled with a substance, such as filled with for example toothpaste or any other substance. In the illustrated embodiment, the tube packaging P comprises a cap C and a seal B.

[0046] As shown in figure 1b, the tube transporting system S comprises the transporting unit T and a plurality of tube carrying units 1 attached to the transporting unit T, for an efficient transportation of tube packagings P. The tube carrying units 1 attached to the transporting unit T are configured for carrying the tube packagings P filled with the substance upon transportation from a tube filling unit UTF to a tube picking unit UTP. As shown in figure 1b, the tube carrying units 1 are carrying the tube packagings P in the transporting direction D on the upper side SUP of the transporting unit T from the tube filling unit UTF to the tube picking unit UTP.

[0047] In the tube filling unit UTF, the tube packagings are filled with the substance and sealed. Thereafter, the sealed tube packagings P are fed to the tube transporting system S, as indicated with the arrow in figure 1b. The tube packagings P may be fed from the tube filling unit UTF to the tube transporting system S by any suitable transportation means, such as for example an industrial robot or a conveyor belt. Each tube packaging P is fed to a tube carrying unit 1 for individual transportation by thetube carrying unit 1 from the tube filling unit UTF to the tube picking unit UTP in the transporting direction D, and as understood from figure 1b a plurality of tube packagings P are transported after each other by the transporting unit T in the transporting direction D on the upper side SUP.

[0048] When the tube carrying units 1 with the tube packagings P reach the tube picking unit UTP, the tube packagings P are removed from the tube carrying units 1, as indicated with the arrow in figure 1b. The tube picking unit UTP may be any suitable unit for removing the tube packagings P from the tube carrying units 1. In connection to the tube picking unit UTP, the tube packagings P may be arranged on trays, pallets, or packed in boxes for further transportation and handling. The tube packagings P may be removed from the tube carrying units 1 at the tube picking unit UTP by any suitable transportation means, such as for example an industrial robot or a conveyor belt.

[0049] When the tube packagings P have been removed from the tube carrying units 1 at the tube picking unit UTP, the emptied tube carrying units 1 are transported by the transporting unit T to the tube filling unit UTF, where they are receiving new tube packagings P.

[0050] As shown in figures 2 and 3, the tube carrying unit 1 comprises a base structure 1a and a support structure 1b. The tube carrying unit 1 suitably has a trough-like configuration for efficiently supporting the tube packagings P during transportation. As described above, the tube carrying unit 1 is configured for carrying the sealed tube packaging P filled with a substance from the tube filling unit UTF to the tube picking unit UTP. The base structure 1a is configured for supporting a first end section SEI of the tube packaging P and the support structure 1b is configured for supporting a second end section SE2 of the tube packaging P. As understood from the figures, the first end section SEI and the second end section SE2 of the tube packaging P are arranged at a distance from each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the tube packaging P comprises a cap C and a seal B. The first end section SEI is the part of the tube packaging P arranged in connection to the cap C, including the cap C. The second end section SE2 is the part of the tube packaging P arranged in connection to the seal S, including the seal S. Thus, the first end section SEI is configured as a cap section SCAP of the tube packaging P and the second end section SE2 is configured as a seal section SSEAL of the tube packaging P. In this way, the base structure 1a issupporting the cap section SCAP and the support structure 1b is supporting the seal section SSEAL upon transportation.

[0051] In other non-illustrated embodiments, the first end section SEI may instead be the seal section of the tube packaging P and the second end section SE2 the cap section of the tube packaging P. The base structure 1a may then be arranged to support the seal section and the support structure 1b may be arranged to support the cap section upon transportation.

[0052] The support structure 1b is movably arranged relative to the base structure 1a, and the support structure 1b is configured for being displaced relative to the base structure 1a into a transporting position PT depending on a length L of the tube packaging P. As shown in for example figures 2 and 3, the tube carrying unit 1 is adapted to the length L of the tube packaging P for efficiently supporting the tube packaging P upon transportation. The support structure 1b is suitably adjusted relative to the base structure 1a into the transporting position PT, where the tube packaging P fits between an outer wall structure 5a of the base structure 1a and an outer wall structure 5b of the support structure 1b. The respective outer wall structures together with side wall structures of the base structure 1a and support structure 1b are securing reliable transportation of the tube packaging P, preventing that the tube packaging P is falling off the tube carrying unit 1.

[0053] The length L of the tube packaging is defined as the distance between outer ends of the tube packaging P, as illustrated in figure 3. In the illustrated embodiment, the Length L of the tube packaging P is the distance between an outer first end PEI at the cap section SCAP and an outer second end PE2 at the seal section SSEAL.

[0054] The tube carrying unit 1 comprises a linear slide structure 2, as shown in figure 3. The linear slide structure 2 comprises a rail 2a arranged on the base structure 1a and a slot 2b arranged in the support structure 1b. The rail 2a is configured for being arranged in the slot 2b enabling sliding movement of the support structure 1 b relative to the base structure 1a along the rail 2a. As indicated with a double arrow in figure 3, the support structure 1b is arranged to slide along the rail 2a in opposite directions relative to the base structure 1a, enabling reliable support for tube packagings P having different lengths L.The tube carrying unit 1 further comprises a locking unit 3, illustrated in for example figures 3, 4a-b, and 5a-b. The locking unit 3 can be arranged in a locked state SL and in an unlocked state Su. In the locked state SL, the locking unit 3 is locking the support structure 1b to the base structure 1a, and in the locked state SL movement of the support structure 1b relative to the base structure 1a is prevented. In the unlocked state Su, the locking unit 3 is unlocking the support structure 1b from the base structure 1a, and in the unlocked state Su movement of the support structure 1b relative to the base structure 1a is enabled.

[0055] The locking unit 3 comprises a locking element 3a arranged in the support structure 1b in connection to the slot 2b, as shown in figures 3, 4a-b, and 5a-b. The locking element 3a is in engagement with the rail 2a in the locked state SL preventing movement of the support structure 1b relative to the base structure 1a along the rail 2a. The locking element 3a is disengaged from the rail 2a in the unlocked state Su enabling movement of the support structure 1b relative to the base structure 1a along the rail 2a.

[0056] The locking unit 3 further comprises a spring 3b arranged between the support structure 1b and the locking element 3a, as shown in figures 4a-b, and 5a-b. The locking element 3a is arranged as a spring loaded pushing rod. The locking element 3a is engaging the rail 2a in the locked state SL by a spring force Fs exerted onto the locking element 3a by the spring 3b. The spring is in the locked state SL pushing the locking element 3a towards the rail 2a, as indicated with an arrow in figures 4a and 5a. The locking element 3a is disengaged from the rail 2a in the unlocked state Su by means of a pushing action AP onto the locking element 3a against the spring force Fs, as illustrated in figures 4b and 5b. The rail 2a comprises a toothed section 2c arranged along a side edge 2d of the rail 2a, and the locking element 3a comprises a toothed area 3c. The toothed area 3c of the locking element 3a is arranged in engagement with the toothed section 2c of the rail 2a in the locked state SL, and the toothed area 3c of the locking element 3a is disengaged from the toothed section 2c of the rail 2a in the unlocked state Su. The toothed area 3c and the toothed section 2c are establishing a secure connection between the locking element 3a and the rail 2a in the locked state SL, preventing movement of the support structure 1b relative to the base structure 1a along the rail 2a.The pushing action AP onto the locking element 3a against the spring force Fs may be applied manually or by means of a suitable pushing mechanism.

[0057] To adjust the tube carrying unit 1 from a present transporting position PT to a new desired transporting position PT, a pushing action AP against the spring force Fs is exerted onto the locking element 3a of the locking unit 3 for disengaging the toothed area 3c from the toothed section 2c. In this way, the locking unit 3 is displaced from the locked state SL to the unlocked state Su. By maintaining the pushing action AP onto the locking element 3a, the locking unit 3 is maintained in the unlocked state Su and the support structure 1b can be slidingly moved into the new desired transporting position PT along the rail 2a relative to the base structure 1a. When the support structure 1b has reached the desired transporting position PT, the pushing action AP onto the locking element 3a can be inactivated for displacing the locking unit 3 by the spring 3b back to the locked state SL from the unlocked state Su. In the locked state SL, the tube carrying unit 1 is ready for carrying a tube packaging P having a different length L.

[0058] In the following, with reference to figure 1a-b, 6a-c, and 7a-c, an embodiment of the tube transporting system S will be described more in detail. The tube transporting system S comprises the transporting unit T and at least one tube carrying unit 1 comprising a base structure 1a and a support structure 1b, as described above. The transporting unit T is arranged as an endless conveyor structure, where the at least one tube carrying unit 1 is attached to the transporting unit T and configured for carrying tube packagings P filled with a substance from the tube filling unit UTF to the tube picking unit UTP. The tube transporting system S further comprises a positioning unit UP arranged for adjusting the tube carrying units 1 , from carrying tube packagings P having a specific length L to carrying tube packagings P having a different length L. It should be understood that when adjusting the tube carrying units 1, the tube transporting system S is arranged in an adjustment mode. In the adjustment mode, suitably no tube packagings P are transported by the tube carrying units 1. Instead, the tube carrying units 1 are fed one by one to the positioning unit UP for adjusting the support structure 1b relative to the base structure 1a into a new transporting position PT. During the adjustment mode, the transporting unit T is operated intermittently and stopped when a tube carrying unit 1 reaches the positioning unit UP. When a tube carrying unit 1 has been adjusted into the new transporting position PT by thepositioning unit UP, a following tube carrying unit 1 is fed to the positioning unit UP for adjustment into the new transporting position PT. This operation is repeated until all tube carrying units 1 have been adjusted by the positioning unit UP.

[0059] As understood from figures 1a-b, the positioning unit UP is arranged between the tube picking unit UTP and the tube filling unit UTF, in connection to the lower side SLO of the transporting unit T. The positioning unit UP is configured for displacing the support structure 1b relative to the base structure 1a into the transporting position PT depending on the length L of the tube packaging P. The tube transporting system S suitably comprises a control unit for controlling the operation of the transporting unit T and the positioning unit UP. A specified or measured length L of the tube packaging P is suitably used as an input parameter to the control unit for determining the correct transporting position PT. When adjusting the tube carrying unit 1 from carrying tube packagings P having a specific length L to carrying tube packagings P having a different new length L, the new length value is submitted to the control unit for controlling the operation of the transporting unit T and the positioning unit UP in order to adjust the tube carrying unit 1 to a new transporting position PT from the previous one. Suitable sensors may be used for determining the correct position of the support structure 1b relative to the base structure 1a, such as position sensors.

[0060] The positioning unit UP comprises a movable gripping unit 4, as illustrated in figures 6a-c and 7a-c. The positioning unit UP is configured for displacing the locking unit 3 from the locked state SL to the unlocked state Su followed by a movement of the support structure 1b relative to the base structure 1a along the rail 2a by means of the gripping unit 4. The gripping unit 4 may have any suitable configuration, and in the shown embodiment, the gripping unit 4 comprises a first grip member 4a and a second grip member 4b. The gripping unit 4 is movably arranged in opposite directions along a rail structure 6 in a transverse direction DT relative to the transporting unit T, as indicated with the double arrow in figure 6a. The movement of the gripping unit 4 in the transverse direction DT is enabled by a drive unit 7. The drive unit 7 may have any suitable configuration, such as a belt drive arrangement, a linear actuator arrangement, or an electric motor arrangement. The first grip member 4a and the second grip member 4b may have separate actuators, and suitably the first grip member 4a and the second grip member 4b are arranged as pneumatic grip cylinders configured to move the first grip member 4a and the second grip member 4b indirections towards each other and away from each other. Other types of actuators that may be used are for example belt drives, linear actuators, or electric motors. Alternatively, the drive unit 7 may also be configured to move the first grip member 4a and the second grip member 4b in directions towards each other and away from each other.

[0061] The gripping unit 4 is via the first grip member 4a and the second grip member 4b configured for engaging the locking element 3a for displacing the locking unit 3 from the locked state SL to the unlocked state Su. The gripping unit 4 is further via the first grip member 4a and the second grip member 4b configured for exerting the pushing action AP against the spring force Fs onto the locking element 3a when displacing the locking unit 3 from the locked state SL to the unlocked state Su.

[0062] Different operational steps of the positioning unit UP are sequentially illustrated in figures 6a-c and 7a-c. In figure 6a, a tube carrying unit 1 has been positioned and stopped in connection to the positioning unit UP by the transporting unit T. In this position, the positioning unit UP is ready to adjust the tube carrying unit 1 for carrying a tube packaging P of a different length L. To accomplish the adjustment of the tube carrying unit 1 , the support structure 1b of the tube carrying unit 1 is displaced relative to the base structure 1a into a new transporting position PT by the positioning unit UP. In figure 6a, the gripping unit 4 is arranged in an open state So, in which the first grip member 4a and the second grip member 4b are displaced away from each other with a distance wider than the width of the tube carrying unit 1. In the open state So, the gripping unit 4 can be moved into a gripping position PG where the first grip member 4a and the second grip member 4b are aligned with the locking unit 3, as illustrated in figures 6b and 7a. In the gripping position PG, the first grip member 4a and the second grip member 4b are displaced towards each other into a grip state SG, where opposite sides of the support structure 1b are gripped by the first grip member 4a and the second grip member 4b respectively, as understood from figure 7b. Due to the alignment with the locking unit 3, the pushing action AP against the spring force Fs is in the grip state SG exerted onto the locking element 3a by the gripping unit 4. In the shown embodiment, the first grip member 4a is exerting the pushing action AP onto the locking element 3a when the first grip member 4a and the second grip member 4b are displaced towards each other, as shown in figures 6b and 7a-b. In this way, the locking unit 3 is displaced from the locked state SL to the unlocked state Su.In the locked state SL shown in figure 7a, the locking unit 3 is locking the support structure 1b to the base structure 1a and movement of the support structure 1b relative to the base structure 1a along the rail 2a is prevented. In the unlocked state Su shown in figure 7b, the locking unit 3 is unlocking the support structure 1b from the base structure 1a and movement of the support structure 1b relative to the base structure 1a along the rail 2a is possible.

[0063] As described above, the locking unit 3 comprises the locking element 3a arranged in the support structure 1b in connection to the slot 2b. In the locked state SL, the locking element 3a is in engagement with the rail 2a preventing movement of the support structure 1b relative to the base structure 1a along the rail 2a. The toothed area 3c of the locking element 3a is in the locked state SL in engagement with the toothed section 2c along the side edge 2d of the rail 2a. In the unlocked state Su, the locking element 3a is disengaged from the rail 2a by the pushing action AP from the first grip member 4a enabling movement of the support structure 1b relative to the base structure 1a along the rail 2a. The pushing action AP from the first grip member 4a is disengaging the toothed area 3c of the locking element 3a from the toothed section 2c in the unlocked state Su.

[0064] When the gripping unit 4 with the first grip member 4a and the second grip member 4b has displaced the locking unit from the locked state SL to the unlocked state Su, the gripping unit 4 is used for displacing the support structure 1b relative to the base structure 1a into a transporting position PT depending on a length L of the tube packaging P, as indicated with arrows in figures 6c and 7c. In this way, the positioning unit UP is first displacing the locking unit 3 from the locked state SL to the unlocked state Su, followed by a movement of the support structure 1b relative to the base structure 1a along the rail 2a by means of the gripping unit 4.

[0065] As described above, in the gripping position PG, the first grip member 4a and the second grip member 4b are displaced towards each other into the grip state SG, where opposite sides of the support structure 1b are gripped by the first grip member 4a and the second grip member 4b respectively. In the shown embodiment, the first grip member 4a is exerting the pushing action AP onto the locking element 3a when the first grip member 4a and the second grip member 4b are displaced towards each other, and the locking unit 3 is in this way displaced from the locked state SL to the unlocked state Su. In the unlocked state Su, the grip state SG of the first grip member4a and the second grip member 4b is maintained for a maintained unlocked state Su of the locking unit 3. In the unlocked state Su, the gripping unit 4 is moved in the transverse direction DT upon maintained grip state SG of the first grip member 4a and the second grip member 4b into a position along the rail structure 6 corresponding to the correct transporting position PT of the support structure 1b relative to the base structure 1a. The movement of the gripping unit 4 in the transverse direction DT is thus displacing the support structure 1b through a sliding movement of the support structure 1b relative to the base structure 1a along the rail 2a, for an efficient adjustment of the tube carrying unit 1, as understood from figures 6a-c and 7a-c.

[0066] When the new transporting position PT is reached, the first grip member 4a and the second grip member 4b are moved away from each other for moving the gripping unit 4 away from the gripping position PG and the grip state SG. In this way, the locking unit 3 is displaced from the unlocked state Su to the locked state SL for an efficient locking engagement between the support structure 1b to the base structure 1a in the new transporting position PT. The gripping unit 4 is thereafter moved along the rail structure 6 away from the tube carrying unit 1 , allowing another tube carrying unit to be adjusted by the positioning unit UP.

[0067] The tube carrying unit 1 may further be arranged with one or more tube supporting elements 1c that are used for holding the tube packaging P in a correct transporting position PT. In the embodiment shown in figures 8a-d, the support structure 1b is arranged with two tube supporting elements 1c. The tube supporting elements 1c are in the shown embodiment arranged as an outer inclined support surface Si and an inner inclined support surface Si that are adapted for supporting the second end section SE2 configured as the seal section SSEAL of the tube packaging P, as understood from figures 8c-d.

[0068] When positioned in the tube carrying unit 1, the seal B of the tube packaging P is resting against one of the inclined support surfaces Si during transportation from the tube filling unit UTF to the tube picking unit UTP, as illustrated in figures 8c-d. The configuration of the tube supporting elements 1c arranged as inclined support surfaces Si are positioning the tube packagings P in an inclined position Pi, that is enabling efficient handling of the tube packagings P when being removed from the tube carrying unit 1 at the tube picking unit UTP. The inclined position Pi of the tube packagings in the tube carrying unit 1 is upon removal from the tube carrying unit 1allowing simple positioning of tube packagings P in rows next to each other in an inclined configuration on trays, pallets, or in boxes.

[0069] The support structure 1b may further be arranged with a lower support surface 1d arranged inside the one or more tube supporting elements 1c. In the embodiment shown in figures 8a-d, the lower support surface 1d is suitably configured as a flat surface arranged in connection to the tube supporting elements 1c. The inclined support surfaces Si of the tube supporting elements 1c have an inclination angle a, defined as the angular relationship between the lower support surface 1d and the respective tube supporting elements 1c, as shown in figure 8b. The inclination angle a is suitably as a non-limiting example in the range 30° to 45°. It should be understood that the inclination angle a may be the same for different tube supporting elements 1c, or the inclination angle a may be different for different tube supporting elements 1c.

[0070] By arranging the support structure 1b with two or more tube supporting elements 1c, tube packagings P having different diameters can be efficiently transported. For the tube carrying unit 1 of the embodiment shown in figures 8a-d, the outer tube supporting element 1c is suitably used for larger tube diameters, as shown in figure 8c, and the inner tube supporting element 1c is suitably used for smaller tube diameters, as shown in figure 8d. In this way, the transporting position PT of the tube carrying unit 1 is adapted not only to the length L of the tube packaging P, but also to the tube diameter.

[0071] For the different transporting positions PT shown in figures 8a-b, the support structure 1b is displaced relative to the base structure 1a into the transporting position PT depending on a length L of the tube packaging P, as described above. Based on the tube diameter, the transporting position PT is arranged such that the seal B is supported by a suitable tube supporting element 1c. The tube carrying unit 1 is in this way adapted to the length L of the tube packaging P for efficiently supporting the tube packaging P upon transportation. As shown in the figures, the support structure 1b is adjusted relative to the base structure 1a into the transporting position PT, where the seal B of the tube packaging P is resting against one of the inclined support surfaces Si and the tube packaging P fits between the outer wall structure 5a of the base structure 1a and the outer wall structure 5b of the support structure 1b.It should be understood that in other non-illustrated embodiments, the tube carrying unit 1 may be arranged with any suitable number of tube supporting elements 1c, depending on the types of tube packagings P that are being transported.

[0072] In other non-illustrated embodiments, the tube transporting system S comprises two or more positioning units UP for parallel adjustment of two or more tube carrying units 1 , for an even more efficient adjustment operation.

[0073] In further non-illustrated embodiments, the tube carrying unit 1 may be arranged with a movably arranged support structure and a movably arranged base structure, instead of only having one movably arranged support structure as exemplified above. In this way, the support structure and the base structure are movably arranged relative to a common support structure in the same way as exemplified above for even further adjustment possibilities. With such an arrangement, the positioning unit is adapted for adjusting both the support structure and the base structure relative to the common support structure. The common support structure may then be arranged with a rail, as described above, and the support structure and the base structure each comprise a slot enabling sliding movements of the support structure and the base structure respectively along the rail. Each of the support structure and the base structure may then be arranged with a locking unit as described above.

[0074] It will be appreciated that the above description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present disclosure, its application or uses. While specific examples have been described in the specification and illustrated in the drawings, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined in the claims. Furthermore, modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular examples illustrated by the drawings and described in the specification as the best mode presently contemplated for carrying out the teachings of the present disclosure, but that the scope of the present disclosure will include any embodiments falling within the foregoing description and the appended claims. Reference signs mentioned in the claims should not be seen as limiting the extent of the matter protected by the claims, and their sole function is to make claims easier to understand.REFERENCE SIGNS

[0075] 1: Tube carrying unit

[0076] 1a: Base structure

[0077] 1b: Support structure

[0078] 1c: Tube supporting element

[0079] 1 d: Lower support surface

[0080] 2: Linear slide structure

[0081] 2a: Rail

[0082] 2b: Slot

[0083] 2c: Toothed section

[0084] 2d: Side edge

[0085] 3: Locking unit

[0086] 3a: Locking element

[0087] 3b: Spring

[0088] 3c: Toothed area

[0089] 4: Gripping unit

[0090] 4a: First grip member

[0091] 4b: Second grip member

[0092] 5a: Outer wall structure, base structure 5b: Outer wall structure, support structure 6: Rail structure

[0093] 7: Drive unit

[0094] A: Inclination angle

[0095] Ap: Pushing action

[0096] B: Seal

[0097] C: Cap

[0098] D: Transporting direction

[0099] Fs: Spring force

[0100] L: Length

[0101] P: Tube packaging

[0102] PG: Gripping position

[0103] Pi: Inclined position

[0104] PT: Transporting positionS: Transporting system SCAP: Cap section

[0105] SEI: First end section SE2: Second end section SG: Grip state

[0106] SI: Inclined support surface SL: Locked state

[0107] SLO: Lower side

[0108] So: Open state

[0109] SSEAL: Seal section

[0110] Su: Unlocked state

[0111] SUP: Upper side

[0112] T: Transporting unit UP: Positioning unit

[0113] UTF: Tube filling unit

[0114] UTP: Tube picking unit

Claims

24CLAIMS1. A tube carrying unit (1) comprising a base structure (1a) and a support structure (1b), wherein the tube carrying unit (1) is configured for carrying a tube packaging (P) upon transportation from a tube filling unit (UTF) to a tube picking unit (UTP), wherein the base structure (1a) is configured for supporting a first end section (SEI) of the tube packaging (P) and the support structure (1b) is configured for supporting a second end section (SE2) of the tube packaging (P) arranged at a distance from the first end section (SEI),characterized in that the support structure (1b) is movably arranged relative to the base structure (1a) and configured for being displaced relative to the base structure (1a) into a transporting position (PT) depending on a length (L) of the tube packaging (P).

2. The tube carrying unit (1) according to claim 1,wherein the tube carrying unit (1) comprises a linear slide structure (2), wherein the linear slide structure (2) comprises a rail (2a) arranged on the base structure (1a) and a slot (2b) arranged in the support structure (1b), wherein the rail (2a) is configured for being arranged in the slot (2b) enabling sliding movement of the support structure (1b) relative to the base structure (1a) along the rail (2a).

3. The tube carrying unit (1) according to claim 1 or 2,wherein the tube carrying unit (1) comprises a locking unit (3), wherein in a locked state (SL) the locking unit (3) is configured for locking the support structure (1b) to the base structure (1a) preventing movement of the support structure (1b) relative to the base structure (1a), and wherein in an unlocked state (Su) the locking unit (3) is enabling movement of the support structure (1b) relative to the base structure (1a).

4. The tube carrying unit (1) according to claim 2 and 3,wherein the locking unit (3) comprises a locking element (3a) arranged in the support structure (1b) in connection to the slot (2b), wherein the locking element (3a) is in engagement with the rail (2a) in the locked state (SL) preventingmovement of the support structure (1b) relative to the base structure (1a) along the rail (2a), wherein the locking element (3a) is disengaged from the rail (2a) in the unlocked state (Su) enabling movement of the support structure (1b) relative to the base structure (1a) along the rail (2a).

5. The tube carrying unit (1) according to claim 4,wherein the locking unit (3) further comprises a spring (3b) arranged between the support structure (1b) and the locking element (3a), wherein the locking element (3a) is arranged as a spring loaded pushing rod, wherein the locking element (3a) is engaging the rail (2a) in the locked state (SL) by a spring force (Fs) exerted onto the locking element (3a) by the spring (3b), wherein the locking element (3a) is configured for being disengaged from the rail (2a) in the unlocked state (Su) by means of a pushing action (AP) onto the locking element (3a) against the spring force (Fs).

6. The tube carrying unit (1) according to claim 4 or 5,wherein the rail (2a) comprises a toothed section (2c) arranged along a side edge (2d) of the rail (2a), wherein the locking element (3a) comprises a toothed area (3c) configured for being in engagement with the toothed section (2c) in the locked state (SL) and disengaged from the toothed section (2c) in the unlocked state (Su).

7. The tube carrying unit (1) according to any preceding claim,wherein the first end section (SEI) is a cap section (SCAP) of the tube packaging (P) and the second end section (SE2) is a seal section (SSEAL) of the tube packaging (P), wherein upon transportation the base structure (1a) is supporting the cap section (SCAP) and the support structure (1b) is supporting the seal section (SSEAL).

8. The tube carrying unit (1) according to any preceding claim,wherein the support structure (1b) comprises one or more tube supporting elements (1c), wherein the one or more tube supporting elements (1c) are arranged as inclined support surfaces (Si) configured for holding the tube packaging (P) in an inclined position (Pi), wherein the one or more tubesupporting elements (1c) are configured for supporting a seal (B) arranged at the second end section (SE2) of the tube packaging (P).

9. A tube transporting system (S) comprising a transporting unit (T) and at least one tube carrying unit (1) comprising a base structure (1a) and a support structure (1b),wherein the transporting unit (T) is arranged as an endless conveyor structure, wherein the at least one tube carrying unit (1) is attached to the transporting unit (T) and configured for carrying a tube packaging (P) upon transportation from a tube filling unit (UTF) to a tube picking unit (UTP),wherein the base structure (1a) is configured for supporting a first end section (SEI) of the tube packaging (P) and the support structure (1b) is configured for supporting a second end section (SE2) of the tube packaging (P) arranged at a distance from the first end section (SEI),characterized in that the support structure (1b) is movably arranged relative to the base structure (1a) and configured for being displaced relative to the base structure (1a) into a transporting position (PT) depending on a length (L) of the tube packaging (P).

10. The tube transporting system (S) according to claim 9,wherein the transporting unit (T) is configured for transporting the at least one tube carrying unit (1) from the tube picking unit (UTP) to the tube filling unit (UTF).

11. The tube transporting system (S) according to claim 9 or 10,wherein the transporting system (S) comprises a positioning unit (UP) arranged between the tube picking unit (UTP) and the tube filling unit (UTF), wherein the positioning unit (UP) is configured for displacing the support structure (1b) relative to the base structure (1a) into the transporting position (PT) depending on the length (L) of the tube packaging (P).

12. The tube transporting system (S) according to claim 11 ,wherein the tube carrying unit (1) comprises a linear slide structure (2), wherein the linear slide structure (2) comprises a rail (2a) arranged on the base27structure (1a) and a slot (2b) arranged in the support structure (1b), wherein the rail (2a) is configured for being arranged in the slot (2b) enabling sliding movement of the support structure (1b) relative to the base structure (1a) along the rail (2a), wherein the tube carrying unit (1) comprises a locking unit (3), wherein in a locked state (SL) the locking unit (3) is configured for locking the support structure (1b) to the base structure (1a) preventing movement of the support structure (1b) relative to the base structure (1a) along the rail (2a), and wherein in an unlocked state (Su) the locking unit (3) is enabling movement of the support structure (1b) relative to the base structure (1a) along the rail (2a), wherein the positioning unit (UP) comprises a movable gripping unit (4), wherein the positioning unit (UP) is configured for displacing the locking unit (3) from the locked state (SL) to the unlocked state (Su) followed by a movement of the support structure (1b) relative to the base structure (1a) along the rail (2a) by means of the gripping unit (4).

13. The tube transporting system (S) according to claim 12,wherein the locking unit (3) comprises a locking element (3a) arranged in the support structure (1b) in connection to the slot (2b), wherein the locking element (3a) is in engagement with the rail (2a) in the locked state (SL) preventing movement of the support structure (1b) relative to the base structure (1a) along the rail (2a), wherein the locking element (3a) is disengaged from the rail (2a) in the unlocked state (Su) enabling movement of the support structure (1b) relative to the base structure (1a) along the rail (2a), wherein the gripping unit (4) is configured for engaging the locking element (3a) when displacing the locking unit (3) from the locked state (SL) to the unlocked state (Su).

14. The tube transporting system (S) according to claim 13,wherein the locking unit (3) further comprises a spring (3b) arranged between the support structure (1b) and the locking element (3a), wherein the locking element (3a) is arranged as a spring loaded pushing rod, wherein the locking element (3a) is engaging the rail (2a) in the locked state (SL) by a spring force (Fs) exerted onto the locking element (3a) by the spring (3b), wherein the locking element (3a) is configured for being disengaged from the rail (2a) in the unlocked state (Su) by means of a pushing action (AP) onto the locking element28(3a) against the spring force (Fs), wherein the gripping unit (4) is configured for exerting the pushing action (AP) against the spring force (Fs) onto the locking element (3a) when displacing the locking unit (3) from the locked state (SL) to the unlocked state (Su).

15. The tube transporting system (S) according to claim 13 or 14,wherein the rail (2a) comprises a toothed section (2c) arranged along a side edge (2d) of the rail (2a), wherein the locking element (3a) comprises a toothed area (3c) configured for being in engagement with the toothed section (2c) in the locked state (SL) and disengaged from the toothed section (2c) in the unlocked state (Su).

16. The tube transporting system (S) according to any of claims 9 to 15,wherein the support structure (1b) comprises one or more tube supporting elements (1c), wherein the one or more tube supporting elements (1c) are arranged as inclined support surfaces (Si) configured for holding the tube packaging (P) in an inclined position (Pi), wherein the one or more tube supporting elements (1c) are configured for supporting a seal (B) arranged at the second end section (SE2) of the tube packaging (P).

17. A method for operating a tube carrying unit (1) comprising a base structure (1a) and a support structure (1b), wherein the tube carrying unit (1) is arranged on a transporting unit (T) and configured for carrying a tube packaging (P) upon transportation from a tube filling unit (UTF) to a tube picking unit (UTP),wherein the base structure (1a) is supporting a first end section (SEI) of the tube packaging (P) and the support structure (1b) is supporting a second end section (SE2) of the tube packaging (P) arranged at a distance from the first end section (SEI), wherein the support structure (1b) is movably arranged relative to the base structure (1a), wherein the method comprises the step:displacing the support structure (1b) relative to the base structure (1a) into a transporting position (PT) depending on a length (L) of the tube packaging (P).

18. The method according to claim 17,29wherein the tube carrying unit (1) comprises a linear slide structure (2), wherein the linear slide structure (2) comprises a rail (2a) arranged on the base structure (1a) and a slot (2b) arranged in the support structure (1b), wherein the rail (2a) is arranged in the slot (2b) enabling sliding movement of the support structure (1b) relative to the base structure (1a) along the rail (2a), wherein the tube carrying unit (1) comprises a locking unit (3), wherein the method further comprises the steps: locking the support structure (1b) to the base structure (1a) by the locking unit (3) in a locked state (SL) for preventing movement of the support structure (1b) relative to the base structure (1a) along the rail (2a); and unlocking the support structure (1b) from the base structure (1a) by the locking unit (3) in an unlocked state (Su) for enabling movement of the support structure (1b) relative to the base structure (1a) along the rail (2a).

19. The method according to claim 18,wherein the locking unit (3) comprises a locking element (3a) arranged in the support structure (1b) in connection to the slot (2b), wherein the method further comprises the steps: engaging the locking element (3a) with the rail (2a) in the locked state (SL) preventing movement of the support structure (1b) relative to the base structure (1a) along the rail (2a); and disengaging the locking element (3a) from the rail (2a) in the unlocked state (Su) enabling movement of the support structure (1b) relative to the base structure (1a) along the rail (2a).

20. The method according to claim 19,wherein the locking unit (3) further comprises a spring (3b) arranged between the support structure (1b) and the locking element (3a), wherein the locking element (3a) is arranged as a spring loaded pushing rod, wherein the method further comprises the steps: engaging the locking element (3a) with the rail (2a) in the locked state (SL) by a spring force (Fs) exerted onto the locking element (3a) by the spring (3b); disengaging the locking element (3a) from the rail (2a) in the unlocked state (Su) by a pushing action (AP) onto the locking element (3a) against the spring force (Fs).

21. The method according to claim 19 or 20,30wherein the rail (2a) comprises a toothed section (2c) arranged along a side edge (2d) of the rail (2a), wherein the locking element (3a) comprises a toothed area (3c), wherein the method further comprises the steps: engaging the toothed area (3c) with the toothed section (2c) in the locked state (SL); and disengaging the toothed area (3c) from the toothed section (2c) in the unlocked state (Su).

22. The method according to any of claims 17 to 21,wherein the method further comprises the step: transporting the at least one tube carrying unit (1) from the tube picking unit (UTP) to the tube filling unit (UTF) with the transporting unit (T).

23. The method according to any of claims 17 to 22,wherein the support structure (1b) comprises one or more tube supporting elements (1c), wherein the one or more tube supporting elements (1c) are arranged as inclined support surfaces (Si) configured for supporting a seal (B) arranged at the second end section (SE2) of the tube packaging (P), wherein the method further comprises the step: holding the tube packaging (P) in an inclined position (Pi) by the inclined support surfaces (Si) of the one or more tube supporting elements (1c).

Images