Technology for handling a film roll

Abstract

The invention relates, inter alia, to a device (26) for handling a film roll (F). The device (26) comprises a mandrel (28) for internally clamping a roll core (K) of the film roll (F). The device (26) further comprises a hold-down device (42). The hold-down device (42) comprises at least one hold-down element (58) which is movable relative to the mandrel (28) for contacting an outer layer of the internally clamped film roll (F), for holding down the contacted outer layer.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] Technique for handling a roll of foil

[0003] Technical field

[0004] The invention relates to a device for handling a roll of film. The invention further relates to a handling robot for handling rolls of film. The invention also relates to a system for packaging articles and a method for handling a roll of film.

[0005] Technical background

[0006] When grouping and assembling items into containers, such as beverage containers or similar items, these are often held together in practice with shrink film to prevent slippage or separation from the group during further handling or transport. Containers comprising four, six, or more containers are known from the prior art. Such containers represent a very common type of sales unit for beverage containers, e.g., PET bottles or cans.

[0007] To provide packaging material or shrink film for the partial or complete wrapping of containers, devices and methods are already known that unwind the material from a film roll, transport it within a packaging machine, and thus wrap the individual containers or the respective items that are to form the respective container with the packaging material. The unwinding of the packaging material from the film roll is usually carried out mechanically and in a continuous process. Once a film roll is unwound or exhausted, it must be replaced.

[0008] Devices for handling film rolls are known, for example, from DE 102016206 172 Al and DE 202015 102 19 1 Ul.

[0009] It is possible that a partially used roll of film needs to be removed from a packaging machine, for example, because there is no longer enough film wound on it to continue production, or due to a product changeover. When removed, the roll may still have several layers of film wound on it, and it is possible that one end of the film has already been partially unwound. During subsequent handling and transport, the film roll may unwind further. This unwound film can be problematic. For example, it can make handling and transporting the roll more difficult, as it can become jammed against parts of the handling device or enter a monitored safety zone, potentially causing the handling device to shut down unexpectedly.Interruptions during the process necessitate personnel intervention and delay the supply within the line, resulting in additional costs. Neat placement of the film roll on, for example, a pallet can be difficult because film flaps hang down or become trapped underneath the roll. This complicates the reprocessing of film rolls suitable for further processing.

[0010] The invention is based on the objective of creating an improved technique for handling a roll of film, which preferably overcomes at least some of the aforementioned disadvantages.

[0011] Summary of the invention

[0012] The problem is solved by the features of the independent claims. Advantageous further developments are specified in the dependent claims and the description.

[0013] One aspect concerns a device for handling (e.g., moving and / or holding down) a film roll (e.g., packaging film). The device has a holder for internally holding, preferably internally clamping, the core of the film roll. Preferably, the holder is a mandrel, more preferably a clamping mandrel, for internally clamping the core of the film roll. The device further has a hold-down device that includes at least one hold-down element which is movable (e.g., translationally movable and / or pivotable) relative to the holder, preferably the mandrel, in order to contact an outer layer of the internally clamped film roll and hold down the contacted outer layer.

[0014] The device advantageously allows the otherwise unsecured outer layer of a partially used or nearly empty roll of film to be held in place by the clamp when handling it. The clamp can be activated, for example, when the film roll is picked up before transport, securing the loose end of the roll by clamping it down so that it remains fixed during transport. This effectively prevents the end of the film roll from moving freely during transport. For example, this prevents the film flap from hanging down during transport with a handling robot carrying the device, thus preventing the robot's safety field from being triggered and ensuring a reliable and robust transport process.The proposed technology can also be easily integrated into existing systems, as there is no need to modify the hardware of existing systems, thus facilitating the retrofitting of existing lines. The use of the hold-down device can be advantageously seen as a flexibly adaptable solution. The hold-down elements used can, for example, be flexibly adapted in their shape and position to the respective requirements. Further advantages of the invention lie in its cost-effectiveness and sustainability, which are achieved through optimal reusability with minimal film waste from partially used rolls.

[0015] Preferably, the device is designed to be mounted on an arm of a handling robot.

[0016] In one embodiment, at least one of the following is fulfilled:

[0017] the at least one holding element is movable radially to a central axis of the holder, preferably the mandrel;

[0018] the at least one holding element is movable essentially parallel to a central axis of the holder, preferably the mandrel; and

[0019] The at least one hold-down element is pivotable, preferably by means of a pivot bearing and / or driven by means of a (e.g., electric, electromagnetic, pneumatic or hydraulic) drive (e.g., cylinder drive) of the hold-down.

[0020] Advantageously, the hold-down can be flexibly adapted to different film roll lengths (widths) and diameters, always ensuring secure pressure of the outer layer. The axial mobility also allows the at least one hold-down element to extend as far forward as possible to prevent the outer layer from folding, for example, when the entire device is swiveled. Furthermore, this mobility allows the hold-down to be moved into a parked or unused position where it does not contact an internally clamped film roll. This can be advantageous, for example, if the outer layer of the film roll is already secured in another way, such as with a perforated sticker on an unused film roll. The parked position can be, for example, the position furthest from the holder, preferably the mandrel, with respect to a radial direction.

[0021] In a further embodiment, the hold-down device has at least one of: a radial guide which guides the at least one hold-down element for movement substantially radially to a central axis of the holder, preferably of the mandrel, preferably via a slide which preferably engages with the radial guide;

[0022] a (e.g. electric, electromagnetic, pneumatic or hydraulic) radial linear drive (e.g. cylinder drive) which is connected to the at least one hold-down element for moving the at least one hold-down element radially to a central axis of the holder, preferably the mandrel;

[0023] an axial guide, preferably telescopic (e.g., comprising two parallel telescopic guide elements), which guides the at least one hold-down element for movement substantially parallel to a central axis of the holder, preferably the mandrel, preferably via a support body attached to the axial guide (e.g., the two telescopic guide elements), which carries the at least one hold-down element (e.g., on a side of the support body facing the holder, preferably the mandrel); and

[0024] an axial linear drive (e.g., electric, electromagnetic, pneumatic or hydraulic) (e.g., cylinder drive or toothed belt drive or rack and pinion drive, etc.), preferably a multi-position cylinder, wherein the axial linear drive is drivenly connected to the at least one hold-down element for moving the at least one hold-down element substantially parallel to a central axis of the holder, preferably the mandrel.

[0025] This allows for a simple and flexible constructive implementation of the desired guides and drive(s), with the associated advantages.

[0026] In one embodiment, at least one of the following is fulfilled:

[0027] The at least one retaining element is elastically deformable and preferably made of a rubber material or a thermoplastic polyurethane; and

[0028] The at least one hold-down element is formed from several adjacent, preferably additively manufactured, material layers, preferably from a thermoplastic polyurethane and / or together with a holder that holds the at least one hold-down element (e.g. rotatably).

[0029] The elastic deformability of at least one hold-down element can advantageously allow it to adapt to the curved surface of the outer layer and ensure gentle contact with the outer layer. Additive manufacturing, e.g., from a flexible TPU material, can advantageously enable the cost-effective production of customized hold-down elements that are easily adaptable and interchangeable according to requirements.

[0030] In another embodiment, it has at least one holding element:

[0031] at least one holding roller which is rotatable for unwinding on the outer layer, preferably for unwinding along a circumferential direction of the holder, preferably of the mandrel, (or of the film roll) or for unwinding along an axial direction of the holder, preferably of the mandrel, (or of the film roll); and / or

[0032] at least one, preferably pivotable, clamping strip for contacting the outer layer, preferably in a line contact along an axial direction of the holder, preferably of the mandrel, (or of the film roll).

[0033] Advantageously, hold-down rollers place minimal stress on the surface of the outer layer of the film roll, as they can unwind from it upon contact. Furthermore, a clamping strip allows for the holding down of a relatively long section of the outer layer of the film roll with comparatively little design effort.

[0034] In one embodiment, several hold-down elements are included, spaced apart to contact the outer layer at multiple, spaced-apart positions to hold it in place. Preferably, the multiple hold-down elements can be spaced apart in a circumferential direction of the holder, preferably the mandrel (or the film roll), and / or in an axial direction of the holder, preferably the mandrel (or the film roll). Advantageously, the outer layer can thus be held down at least at specific points or even over a surface in different sections, resulting in a particularly secure and effective hold-down of the outer layer.

[0035] In one embodiment, the multiple hold-down elements (e.g., designed as hold-down rollers) are arranged in several groups (e.g., spaced apart from each other), each group containing at least two hold-down elements. This advantageously allows, for example, flexible adjustment of the hold-down by adding or removing individual groups. Furthermore, the outer layer can be held down by the multiple groups both circumferentially and axially along the film roll.

[0036] In another embodiment, at least one of the following is fulfilled: the groups are spaced apart from each other in an axial direction of the holder, preferably the mandrel;

[0037] The groups are arranged parallel to each other;

[0038] The multiple holding elements of a respective group are spaced apart from each other in a circumferential direction of the holder, preferably the mandrel;

[0039] The multiple hold-down elements of a respective group are aligned lying in a common plane, which extends essentially perpendicular to an axial direction of the holder, preferably the mandrel;

[0040] The groups each have between two and four hold-down elements; in particular, a group can comprise at least one hold-down element;

[0041] The multiple hold-down elements of each group are arranged together to grip the outer layer section by section;

[0042] The groups each have their own bracket for holding the hold-down elements of the respective group; and

[0043] At least one of the groups has a holder with two support arms aligned at an angle, preferably obtuse angle, to each other, each supporting at least one hold-down element of the respective group.

[0044] Preferably, the holder, together with the respective held hold-down elements, can be formed from several adjacent, preferably additively manufactured, material layers.

[0045] In one embodiment, the hold-down device further comprises a compensating element, preferably a compensating joint, for compensating for an offset, preferably an angular offset and / or axial offset. The compensating element can support the at least one hold-down element (at least indirectly via a support body that carries the at least one hold-down element). Preferably, at least one of the following conditions can also be met:

[0046] The compensating element has a ball joint, a hinge joint, or a swivel joint; the compensating element is floatingly mounted; and

[0047] The compensating element connects a support body carrying at least one hold-down element to a drive element, preferably the end of a piston rod, or a (e.g., linear) drive (e.g., the axial linear drive) of the hold-down device. This advantageously prevents damage to the hold-down device and the device. For example, if, after the hold-down device has made contact with the outer layer, the entire device is turned over for or during transport, e.g., by a handling robot, and the bending end of the film roll presses down on the at least one hold-down element, the compensating element and / or the preferably obtusely angled, flexible hold-down element holders of a hold-down element group can provide dynamic support, preventing damage to the hold-down device and the device.

[0048] In one embodiment, at least one of the following is fulfilled:

[0049] The holder, preferably the mandrel, has several clamping elements (e.g., clamping strips) that can be extended and retracted radially to a central axis of the holder, preferably the mandrel, for releasing and clamping the core of the film roll, wherein the clamping elements of the holder, preferably the mandrel, are preferably actuated fluidically, preferably pneumatically, preferably for extending or retracting the clamping elements; and

[0050] The device further comprises a pusher for pushing off a film roll carried by the holder, preferably by the mandrel, from the holder, preferably from the mandrel, preferably with a (e.g. plate-shaped) pusher element and a (e.g. pneumatic) actuator which is operatively connected with the pusher element for moving the pusher element (e.g. parallel to a central axis of the holder, preferably of the mandrel).

[0051] Preferably the holder, preferably the mandrel, can be arranged adjacent to the hold-down device, e.g. between the pusher and the hold-down device.

[0052] Another aspect concerns a handling robot for handling film rolls. The handling robot has (at least) one arm (e.g., movable and / or driveable), preferably a swivel arm or (e.g., multi-axis) articulated arm, and a device as disclosed herein. Preferably, the arm can carry the device, more preferably as an end effector on the arm. Advantageously, the handling robot can achieve the same advantages already described with reference to the device.

[0053] In one embodiment, the handling robot is a stationary handling robot, preferably an articulated-arm robot. Alternatively, the handling robot can be, for example, a mobile handling robot, preferably an automated guided vehicle (AGV), wherein the handling robot preferably has a locomotion unit for moving the handling robot and a handling unit with the arm and the device, and the handling unit is, for example, coupled (and decoupled) to a top surface of the locomotion unit as an interchangeable assembly.

[0054] In another embodiment, the handling robot has a control unit configured to operate the handling robot in such a way that:

[0055] the holder, preferably the mandrel, is inserted into the core of the film roll and clamped there to internally clamp the film roll; and / or

[0056] that at least one holding element is moved into contact with the outer layer of the internally clamped film roll to hold down the outer layer; and / or

[0057] to pivot the arm to take over the internally clamped film roll, the outer layer of which is held down by the at least one holding element, preferably about a substantially horizontal pivot axis and / or to position the film roll above a movement unit of the handling robot.

[0058] Preferably, the term "control unit" can refer to electronics (e.g., implemented as a driver circuit or with microprocessor(s) and data storage) that, depending on its design, can perform control tasks, regulation tasks, and / or processing tasks. Although the term "control" is used here, it can also appropriately encompass or refer to "regulation," "control with feedback," and / or "processing." The control unit can, for example, be a central control unit or comprise several decentralized or distributed control units.

[0059] Another aspect concerns a system for packaging articles, preferably containers, comprising a packaging device for packaging the articles with a section of packaging film from a film roll, preferably by enclosing several of the articles with the packaging film section, wherein the packaging device has at least one film roll holder (e.g., with a holder, preferably a mandrel) for receiving the film roll. The system further comprises a handling robot as disclosed herein, which is configured (e.g., by means of a control device) to transfer the film roll to the film roll holder and / or to receive the film roll from the film roll holder. Advantageously, the system can achieve the same advantages that have already been described with reference to the device. Another aspect concerns a container handling system (e.g.,For tempering, manufacturing, cleaning, coating, testing, filling, sealing, pasteurizing, decorating, labeling, printing, marking, laser marking, and / or packaging containers for liquid or pasty media, preferably beverages, liquid food products, or products from the pharmaceutical or healthcare industry. The container handling system may include the device as disclosed herein, the handling robot as disclosed herein, or the system as disclosed herein. The container handling system may, for example, be a beverage filling plant.

[0060] For example, the containers can be designed as bottles, cans, canisters, cartons, vials, flasks, tubes, etc.

[0061] Another aspect concerns a method for handling a roll of film (e.g., packaging film), preferably by means of a device as disclosed herein and / or a handling robot as disclosed herein or a system as disclosed herein. The method comprises:

[0062] Internal clamping of a core of the film roll by means of a holder, preferably a mandrel;

[0063] Holding down an outer layer of the film roll, which is clamped internally by means of the holder, preferably the mandrel, by means of at least one holding element of a hold-down device; and optionally

[0064] Swiveling the film roll, the core of which is clamped internally by means of the holder, preferably the mandrel, and the outer layer of which is held down by means of the at least one holding element, by means of an arm of a handling robot, preferably mobile or stationary (e.g. into a transport position); and / or

[0065] Transporting the (e.g. swiveled) film roll, the core of which is clamped internally by means of the holder, preferably the mandrel, and the outer layer of which is held down by means of the at least one holding element, by means of a handling robot, preferably mobile or stationary.

[0066] Advantageously, the same advantages can be achieved with this method as have already been described with reference to the device.

[0067] Preferably, a leading hold-down element can contact the outer layer during hold-down in a front half, a front third, or a front quarter of the film roll, wherein the front end of the film roll is the end of the film roll furthest from the holder, preferably the mandrel. It should be noted that the device for handling a film roll can generally include a holder for internally holding, preferably internally clamping, a core of the film roll. The mandrel disclosed herein, preferably a clamping mandrel, can be considered an example of such a holder. However, the holder can also be designed differently from the mandrel.

[0068] It is even possible that the device has no support (e.g. mandrel) at all for holding the roller core inside.

[0069] The preferred embodiments and features of the invention described above can be combined with one another in any way.

[0070] Brief description of the characters

[0071] Further details and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. These show:

[0072] Figure 1 shows a schematic side view of a system for packaging articles;

[0073] Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a device for handling a roll of film;

[0074] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of an axially retracted hold-down device;

[0075] Figure 4 shows a perspective view of an axially extended hold-down device;

[0076] Figure 5 shows a perspective view of several hold-down elements;

[0077] Figure 6 shows a perspective view of several hold-down elements;

[0078] Figure 7 shows a schematic view of a hold-down device in contact with outer layers of different film roll diameters; and

[0079] Figures 8 to 12 show different views of other exemplary devices for handling a roll of foil.

[0080] The embodiments shown in the figures are at least partially identical, so that similar or identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals and, to avoid repetition, reference is also made to the description of the other embodiments or figures for their explanation.

[0081]

[0082] en

[0083] Figure 1 shows a system 10 for packaging articles. The articles are preferably containers. The system 10 is preferably integrated into a container handling plant, preferably a beverage filling plant.

[0084] System 10 includes a packaging device 12 (shown only partially in Figure 1) and a handling robot 16.

[0085] The packaging device 12 can package articles using a section of packaging film from a film roll F. Preferably, the packaging device 12 can apply the packaging film section to an article or to a group of articles (e.g., a package) consisting of several articles. For example, the packaging device 12 can enclose / wrap several articles with the packaging film section, e.g., to form a package.

[0086] The packaging device 12 can have at least one film roll holder 14 for receiving a film roll F. The film roll F received by the film roll holder 14 can be unwound by the packaging device 12, for example, and separated (e.g., cut) into packaging film sections for application to the articles.

[0087] The at least one film roll holder 14 can, for example, have a rotatable mandrel (shaft). For instance, the mandrel of the film roll holder 14 can be designed like the mandrel 28.

[0088] The at least one film roll holder 14 can preferably be movable between a take-up / transfer position and an operating position, e.g. pivotable and / or translationally displaceable.

[0089] In the receiving / transfer position, a film roll F can be transferred to the film roll holder 14, or a film roll F that is at least partially used can be taken from the film roll holder 14 for removal. In the operating position, the film roll F can be unwound from the film roll holder 14 for use in packaging the items, for example.

[0090] It is possible that a device for grouping several items into a group is arranged upstream of the packaging device 12. The packaging device 12 and the grouping device can be connected by a conveyor. The conveyor can transport the items from the grouping device to the packaging device 12. During transport, the conveyor can preferably support the items from below. The conveyor can be, for example, an endless conveyor, such as a belt conveyor, a mat chain conveyor, a plate conveyor, etc. The grouping device can also be included in the container handling system.

[0091] It is possible that a device for shrinking the packaging film sections onto the respective articles is arranged downstream of the packaging device 12. The packaging device 12 and the shrinking device can be connected to each other by means of a product conveyor. The product conveyor can transport the articles from the packaging device 12 to the device for shrinking the packaging film sections. During transport, the product conveyor can preferably support the articles at their base. The product conveyor can, for example, be an endless product conveyor, such as a belt conveyor, a mat chain conveyor, a plate conveyor, etc. The shrinking device can, for example, also be included in the container handling system.

[0092] The handling robot 16 is used for handling film rolls F.

[0093] The handling robot 16 can transfer a film roll F to the film roll holder 14 and / or take a film roll F from the film roll holder 14.

[0094] The handling robot 16 can have at least one arm 18 and a device 26 for handling a film roll F.

[0095] Preferably, the arm 18 can be movable, e.g., about one or more axes. The arm 18 can, for example, have one or more joints, e.g., articulated joints. The handling robot 16 can have at least one drive unit for moving the arm 18, e.g., relative to a base of the handling robot 16.

[0096] For example, arm 18 can be a pivoting arm that can be pivoted about at least one axis. Preferably, arm 18 can be pivoted about at least one substantially horizontal pivot axis S. Arm 18 can, for example, be driven to pivot by at least one drive unit of the handling robot 16. It is also possible that arm 18 is designed as an articulated arm, preferably a multi-axis articulated arm of an articulated robot.

[0097] Preferably, the arm 18 can support the device 26. For example, the device 26 can be supported at one end of the arm 18. Preferably, the device 26 can be coupled to and detached from the arm 18, e.g., by a tool-free quick-release coupling mechanism. Alternatively, the connection can also be made, for example, by a suitable screw connection. Preferably, the arm 18 supports the device 26 as an end effector.

[0098] Figure 1 shows the arm 18 with the device 26 it carries, in two different operating positions, Bl and B2, by way of example. The arm 18 can be moved back and forth between the two operating positions, Bl and B2, preferably pivoted, e.g., by up to 170° about the pivot axis S. For example, in operating position Bl, the film roll F can be picked up or transferred by the handling robot 16, e.g., to / from the film roll holder 14 of the packaging device 12. Operating position Bl can accordingly also be referred to as a pick-up / transfer position. For example, in operating position B2, the film roll F can be transported by the handling robot 16. Operating position B2 can accordingly also be referred to as a transport position.

[0099] Preferably, the handling robot 16 may have a control unit. The control unit may be configured to operate the handling robot 16 and the device 26 carried by the handling robot 16 as described herein.

[0100] It is possible that the handling robot 16 is equipped with environmental sensing sensors. These sensors allow the handling robot 16 to detect its surroundings. For example, they can detect obstacles, objects, or people in the robot's vicinity. Upon detecting an obstacle or person in the immediate vicinity of the handling robot 16, the robot can be brought to a safe state, such as by its control unit, for example, by being stopped.

[0101] As illustrated by example in Figure 1, the handling robot 16 is preferably a mobile handling robot. For example, the handling robot 16 can be an automated guided vehicle (AGV) for transporting at least one roll of film F.

[0102] The mobile handling robot can, for example, pick up a roll of film F from a pickup point, e.g., the packaging unit 12, using the device 26. Preferably, the mobile handling robot can transport the picked-up roll of film F to a desired destination, e.g., a pallet or another storage or transfer point, whereby the roll of film F can be held by the device 26. Upon arrival at the destination, the mobile handling robot can transfer the roll of film F using the device 26. The mobile handling robot can, for example, have a locomotion unit 20 and a handling unit 24.

[0103] The locomotion unit 20 can be configured to move the handling robot 16 across a surface. The locomotion unit 20 can, for example, have at least one driveable traction element 22, such as a wheel or track, for moving across the surface. This at least one driveable traction element 22 can, for example, be driven by at least one drive unit, such as an electric motor, of the locomotion unit 20.

[0104] The handling unit 24 can include the arm 18 and the device 26. Preferably, the handling unit 24 can be designed as an interchangeable assembly for connection to a top surface of the locomotion unit 20. The handling unit 24 can be coupled to and uncoupled from the top surface of the locomotion unit 20, preferably automatically. The locomotion unit 20 can be connected to different assemblies accordingly, depending on the current requirements.

[0105] As an alternative to the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the handling robot 16 can, for example, be a stationary handling robot.

[0106] The stationary handling robot can be, for example, a multi-axis articulated robot, such as a four-, five-, or six-axis articulated robot. Alternatively, the stationary handling robot can be, for example, a gantry robot or a delta robot.

[0107] The stationary handling robot can, for example, be positioned next to the packaging unit 12 for loading the packaging unit 12. Alternatively, the stationary handling robot can, for example, be integrated into a film roll preparation station for receiving film rolls F. Alternatively, the stationary handling robot can, for example, be used in conjunction with a turning station for turning film rolls F.

[0108] Device 26 is a handling device for handling (packaging) film rolls F (and empty cores K) for packaging equipment 12. The film rolls F can, for example, have a maximum outer diameter of 500 mm. The (empty) cores K of the film rolls F can, for example, have an outer diameter of approximately 100 mm. The film rolls F can, for example, have a length between 300 mm and 1000 mm.

[0109] Figures 2 to 4 show, by way of example, the device 26 or sections thereof in greater detail. The device 26 has a mandrel 28 and a hold-down device 42. Optionally, the device 26 may also have, for example, a push-off device 36.

[0110] The pin 28 can, for example, be arranged between the push-off device 36 and the hold-down device 42.

[0111] The mandrel 28 serves to clamp the core K of the film roll F internally (see Figure 1). Preferably, the mandrel 28 can be inserted into the core K of the film roll F (e.g., by means of the handling robot 16) and clamped there to clamp the film roll F internally. Preferably, the mandrel 28 can be designed as a clamping mandrel (e.g., a clamping shaft).

[0112] Preferably, the mandrel 28 can have several clamping elements 30 for clamping or tensioning the film roll F. For example, it can include between three and ten clamping elements 30. Preferably, the clamping elements 30 can be designed as elongated clamping strips.

[0113] The clamping elements 30 can be arranged distributed around a (longitudinal) central axis M of the mandrel 28 on a circumference / a surface of the mandrel 28. Preferably, the clamping elements 30 are arranged equidistant from each other.

[0114] The longitudinal axes of the clamping elements 30 are preferably parallel to the central axis M. Preferably, the upper surfaces or clamping surfaces of the clamping elements 30 can be profiled in sections or completely, e.g., serrated, grooved, or toothed, and / or flat in sections or completely.

[0115] For example, the clamping elements 30 can be extended and retracted radially with respect to the central axis M. Specifically, the clamping elements 30 can be inserted into and removed from the mandrel 28. For example, the clamping elements 30 of a mandrel 28 inserted into the roll core K can be extended to clamp the film roll F. To release a clamped film roll F, the clamping elements 30 can be retracted.

[0116] Preferably, the mandrel 28 is fluidically driven or actuated to extend and / or retract the clamping elements 30. Particularly preferably, the mandrel 28 is a pneumatic mandrel that can be operated with compressed air.

[0117] For example, a fluid, such as compressed air, can be supplied to the mandrel 28 to extend the clamping elements 30. Directly or indirectly acted upon by the fluid, the clamping elements 30 can extend, for example, against an elastic preload. Conversely, the clamping elements 30 can retract without fluid actuation under the influence of an elastic preload.

[0118] It is also possible for the clamping elements 30 to extend and retract under direct or indirect fluid pressure, e.g., compressed air. It is also possible for the clamping elements 30 to retract under direct or indirect fluid pressure, e.g., compressed air, and to extend without fluid pressure under elastic preload.

[0119] For example, the mandrel 28 has a pneumatic cylinder with a retractable piston. Retraction of the piston can, for example, cause the clamping elements 30 to extend. Retraction of the piston can be achieved, for example, by an elastic preload force on the piston, e.g., by a spring. Extension of the piston can, for example, cause the clamping elements 30 to retract. Extension of the piston can be achieved, for example, by pneumatic actuation, i.e., by applying compressed air to the piston or the pneumatic cylinder. It is understood that other variations are also possible, e.g., with the clamping elements 30 extending when the piston extends, e.g., when the piston is pneumatically actuated, and with the clamping elements 30 retracting when the piston retracts, e.g., due to an elastic preload force on the piston.

[0120] For example, the mandrel 28 can be connected to a housing assembly 32. For example, the mandrel 28 can extend from the housing assembly 32. The housing assembly 32 can preferably have a polygonal, e.g., octagonal, cross-section. For example, the housing assembly 32 can be shaped essentially like an octagonal prism.

[0121] The housing assembly 32 can preferably be supported on the arm 18 by means of a support 34. The support 34 can preferably be U-shaped. Preferably, the U-shaped support 34 can support the housing assembly 32 between its two parallel support legs. The support 34 can, for example, be a welded component.

[0122] The support 34, with the supported housing assembly 32 and optionally other components, is preferably articulated, e.g., pivotally connected to the arm 18, e.g., by a (e.g., fork-shaped) receptacle for the arm 18. Further components / attachments can preferably be held on the support 34. The housing assembly 32 can be attached to the support 34 at its base. Fastening elements, such as screws, can extend from a (front) end face of the housing assembly 32 through (e.g., outer) walls of the housing assembly 32 and be screwed into a corresponding hole pattern in the support 34, e.g., in its central leg.

[0123] By means of the optional pusher 36, an untensioned film roll F carried by the mandrel 28 can be pushed off the mandrel 28, e.g. when transferring the film roll F to the packaging device 12. The pusher 36 can be designed to push the film roll F sufficiently far away from the mandrel 28, e.g. onto another mandrel (e.g. designed like mandrel 28) so that the film roll F can be processed further.

[0124] The push-off device 36 may preferably have a push-off element 38 and an actuator 40.

[0125] The sliding element 38 is preferably plate-shaped. Preferably, the sliding element 38 lies in a plane perpendicular to the central axis M. Preferably, the sliding element 38 is a sheet metal part.

[0126] The actuator 40 can be operatively connected to the sliding element 38 for moving (translational movement) the sliding element 38. The actuator 40 is preferably a pneumatic actuator. For example, the actuator 40 can have a pneumatic guide cylinder for extending and retracting the sliding element 38.

[0127] Preferably, the push-off device 36 can be attached to the support 34, preferably independently of the housing assembly 32. Preferably, the U-shaped support 34 can carry the actuator 40 of the push-off device 36 between its two parallel support legs.

[0128] Preferably, the push-off device 36 can be arranged below or above the housing assembly 32 and attached to the support 34.

[0129] The hold-down device 42 serves to hold down (fix) an outer layer (outer winding) of a film roll F clamped internally by the mandrel 28. The hold-down device 42 can press the outer layer against the film roll F, i.e., against the film layers lying beneath the outer layer and the roll core K. The hold-down device 42 can therefore also be referred to as a pressure device.

[0130] The hold-down device 42 has at least one hold-down element 58. The hold-down device 42 may also have, for example, a linear drive 44, a guide 46, a slide 48, a linear drive 50, a guide 52, a support body 54, a compensating element 56 and / or a bracket 60.

[0131] The at least one hold-down element 58 is movable relative to the mandrel 28 in order to come into contact with (and out of contact with) the outer layer of the film roll F. Preferably, the at least one hold-down element 58 can be movable radially and / or parallel to a central axis M of the mandrel 28. It is also possible that the at least one hold-down element 58 is pivotable relative to the mandrel 28, e.g., to pivot towards and away from the outer layer of the film roll F.

[0132] To move the at least one hold-down element 58 radially to the central axis of the mandrel 28, the hold-down device 42 can, for example, have the linear drive 44 and the (mechanical) guide 46. By means of the linear drive 44 and the guide 46, the hold-down device 42 can be adapted to different diameters of the film rolls F and, if necessary, moved into a park position.

[0133] The linear drive 44 can drive the at least one hold-down element 58 radially to the central axis M. The linear drive 44 can therefore also be referred to as a radial linear drive. The guide 46 can guide the movement of the at least one hold-down element 58 radially to the central axis M. The guide 46 can therefore also be referred to as a radial guide. Specifically, the movement of the at least one hold-down element 58 driven by the linear drive 44 can be guided by the guide 46 radially to the central axis M of the mandrel 28. The guide 46 can, for example, be designed as a guide track, a guide rail, or a guide column.

[0134] Preferably, the at least one hold-down element 58 can be guided on the guide 46 by means of a slide 48. The slide 48 can at least indirectly support the at least one hold-down element 58. The slide 48 and the guide 46 can be connected to each other in such a way that the movement of the slide 48 relative to the guide 46 is limited to an axis (direction) radial to the central axis M of the mandrel 28. For example, the slide 48 and the guide 46 can be complementary. For example, the slide 48 and the guide 46 can interlock. For example, the slide 48 can encompass the guide 46 or vice versa.

[0135] To move the at least one hold-down element 58 parallel to the central axis of the mandrel 28, the hold-down device 42 can, for example, have the linear drive 50 and the (mechanical) guide 52. By means of the linear drive 50 and the guide 52, the hold-down device 42 can be adapted to different lengths of the film rolls F. The linear drive 50 can drive the at least one hold-down element 58 to move parallel to the central axis M. The linear drive 50 can therefore also be referred to here as an axial linear drive.

[0136] The linear actuator 44 and / or 50 can, for example, be an electric, electromagnetic, pneumatic, or hydraulic linear actuator. Preferably, the linear actuator 44 and / or 50 is a cylinder actuator, e.g., with a cylinder housing and a piston with a piston rod that can be extended and retracted relative to the cylinder housing.

[0137] Preferably, the linear drive 50 can be designed as a multi-position cylinder, preferably pneumatic, or as an electric cylinder. The multi-position cylinder can enable several different (discrete) positions to be reached, e.g., depending on the length (height) of the respective film roll F.

[0138] The guide 52 can guide the movement of the at least one hold-down element 58 parallel to the central axis M. The guide 52 can therefore also be referred to as an axial guide. Specifically, the movement of the at least one hold-down element 58, driven by the linear drive 50, can be guided by the guide 52 parallel to the central axis M of the mandrel 28. The guide 52 can, for example, be configured as at least one guide track or at least one guide rail. Preferably, the guide 52 is telescopic.

[0139] The guide 52 preferably comprises two telescopic guide elements. The two telescopic guide elements are preferably arranged parallel to each other and parallel to the central axis M of the mandrel 28. A piston of the linear drive 50 can be guided by the two telescopic guide elements.

[0140] A support body 54 can be guided by the guide 52. Preferably, the support body 54 can be attached to the two telescopic guide elements of the guide 52. The support body 54 and the guide 52 can be connected to each other in such a way that the movement of the support body 54 from the guide 52 is restricted to an axis (direction) parallel to the central axis M of the mandrel 28.

[0141] The support body 54 can carry the at least one hold-down element 58. For example, the support body 54 can have a side facing the mandrel 28 (e.g., underside) on which the at least one hold-down element 58 is carried. For example, the support body 54 can be attached to mutually facing inner sides of the two telescopic guide elements of the guide 52, or the support body 54 can be attached to mutually opposing outer sides of the two telescopic guide elements of the guide 52.

[0142] The support body 54 can, for example, have a U-shaped cross-section. The at least one hold-down element 58 can preferably be supported on a central leg of the U-shaped cross-section. The support body 54 can be attached to the guide 52 at the two outer legs of the U-shaped cross-section, e.g., to the two telescopic guide elements belonging to the guide 52.

[0143] The support body 54 can, for example, be a sheet metal bent component.

[0144] The linear drive 50 can be supported by the carriage 48. The carriage 48 can also support the at least one hold-down element 58, e.g., via the support body 54.

[0145] Preferably, the support body 54 can be connected to the linear drive 50 via a compensating element 56. For example, the compensating element 56 can be arranged between one end of a piston rod of the linear drive 50 and the support body 54, connecting them.

[0146] The compensating element 56 serves to compensate for an angular misalignment and / or an axial misalignment between the linear drive 50 and the support body 54. Such a misalignment can occur, for example, when the film roll F held by the device 26 is pivoted by means of the arm 18, e.g., into the second operating position B2 (see Figure 1). Depending on its weight and length, the film roll F can then deflect and press down from above onto the at least one hold-down element 58 and thus onto the support body 54.

[0147] Preferably, the compensating element 56 can be a compensating joint. The compensating joint can, for example, be a ball joint, a hinge joint, or a pivot joint. The compensating joint can be floatingly mounted. The compensating joint can pivotally connect the linear drive 50, preferably a front end of its piston rod, to the support body 54.

[0148] For example, the compensating element 56 can be designed to compensate for an angular offset of up to 10°, up to 8° or up to 5°.

[0149] For example, the compensating element 56 can be designed to compensate for an axial offset of up to 1.5 mm, up to 1 mm, or up to 0.75 mm. The compensating element 56 can also be referred to as a floating joint.

[0150] The hold-down device 42 has at least one hold-down element 58 for contacting the outer layer of the film roll F to hold down the outer layer.

[0151] Preferably, the at least one retaining element 58 can be elastically deformable. For example, the at least one retaining element 58 can be made of a rubber material, e.g., natural or synthetic rubber, or of a thermoplastic polyurethane.

[0152] Particularly preferably, the at least one retaining element 58 is formed from several adjacent material layers, preferably from a thermoplastic polyurethane. Preferably, the material layers can be additively manufactured, e.g., 3D printed.

[0153] Preferably, the at least one hold-down element 58 is designed as a hold-down roller. The hold-down roller(s) can be rotatable for unwinding along the outer layer of the film roll F. For example, the at least one hold-down roller can be rotatable for unwinding along a circumferential direction of the mandrel 28 or the film roll F, or for unwinding along an axial direction of the mandrel or the film roll F.

[0154] Alternatively or additionally, the hold-down elements 58 can, for example, have at least one clamping strip for contacting the outer layer of the film roll F (not shown in Figures 2 to 4). The clamping strip(s) can preferably contact the outer layer of the film roll F in a line contact along an axial direction of the mandrel 28 or the film roll F, e.g., substantially parallel to a central axis M of the mandrel 28.

[0155] Preferably, the hold-down element 42 comprises several retaining elements 58, as illustrated by way of example in Figures 2 to 4. However, it is also possible for the hold-down element 42 to have only a single retaining element 58, e.g. in the form of a single roller or a single clamping strip.

[0156] If several hold-down elements 58 are included, they are preferably arranged at intervals from one another. The hold-down elements 58 can contact the outer layer of the film roll F at several spaced-apart positions on the outer layer to hold the outer layer down. Preferably, several hold-down elements 58 are arranged at intervals from one another in a circumferential direction of the mandrel 28 or the film roll F. Preferably, several hold-down elements 58 are spaced from one another in an axial direction of the mandrel 28 or the film roll F.

[0157] Preferably, the multiple hold-down elements 58 can be arranged in several groups, each with at least two hold-down elements 58, as is also shown by way of example in Figures 2 to 4.

[0158] The groups can each have, for example, between two and four hold-down elements 58. Preferably, a foremost group of the several groups can have more hold-down elements 58 than the other groups. The foremost group can be the group that is furthest from the mandrel 28 with respect to an axial direction of the mandrel 28. For example, the foremost group can have exactly four hold-down elements 58. The other groups can, for example, have exactly two hold-down elements 58 each.

[0159] For example, the groups can be spaced apart from each other in an axial direction of the mandrel 28. The groups can be arranged parallel to each other. The hold-down elements 58 of each group can be aligned lying in a common plane, which can extend substantially perpendicular to an axial direction / the central axis M of the mandrel 28.

[0160] The hold-down elements 58 of each group can be spaced apart from one another in a circumferential direction of the mandrel 28 or the film roll F. This allows the hold-down elements 58 of each group to be arranged together for section-by-section gripping of the outer layer.

[0161] The hold-down device 42 can be attached to the arm 18 of the handling robot 16 via the bracket 60, e.g. on a flange of the arm 18. Additionally or alternatively, the hold-down device 42 can be attached, for example, to the housing assembly 32 and / or the carrier 34.

[0162] Figures 5 and 6 show by way of example how a group of several hold-down elements 58 can be constructively formed.

[0163] Each group can comprise one bracket 62 and several, e.g., two or four, hold-down elements 58. The bracket 62 can preferably mount the several hold-down elements 58 so as to be rotatable. The bracket 62 can, for example, be attached to the support body 54, e.g., by screwing it on. It is possible that a bracket 62 has at least two retaining arms 64 oriented at an angle to each other, preferably at an obtuse angle. The retaining arms 64 can, for example, each carry two hold-down elements 58. The retaining arms 64 can, for example, each be fork-shaped.

[0164] It is also possible that a holder 62, together with the respective hold-down elements 58 it supports, is additively manufactured, preferably from a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Accordingly, the holder 62 and the hold-down elements 58 supported by the holder 62 can be formed from several additively manufactured, adjacent layers of material.

[0165] Figure 7 shows an example of an arrangement of the hold-down elements 58 for section-wise gripping the outer layer of the film roll F by spacing the hold-down elements 58 apart in a circumferential direction of the outer layer or the film roll F.

[0166] The arrangement allows the same hold-down elements 58 to hold down the outer layers of film rolls F with different outer diameters (e.g., 100 mm, 250 mm, and 500 mm). For example, the outer hold-down elements 58 can only come into contact with the outer layer of film rolls F with a comparatively large outer diameter. Conversely, the inner hold-down elements 58 can always come into contact with the outer layer of film rolls F, regardless of the outer diameter.

[0167] Figure 8 shows an embodiment in which the hold-down device 42 is pivotable. A decisive advantage of this embodiment can be its simple and cost-effective implementation.

[0168] The hold-down device 42 can have a pivot bearing 66, an elongated support element 68 and a drive 70.

[0169] The elongated support element 68 can be pivotally mounted on the pivot bearing 66. Preferably, one end of the elongated support element 68 is directly connected to the pivot bearing 66. Preferably, the pivot bearing 66 allows the support element 68 to pivot substantially transversely to an axial direction / the central axis M of the mandrel 28.

[0170] The elongated support element 68 can carry a hold-down element 58, e.g., at another end of the elongated support element 68. The hold-down element 58 is preferably a hold-down roller. The hold-down roller can preferably be unrolled along an axial direction of the mandrel 28 or the film roll F on the outer layer. The drive 70 can cause the elongated support element 68, and thus the hold-down element 58 carried by the elongated support element 68, to pivot. For example, a drive element, e.g., a piston rod, of the drive can be connected to the elongated support element 68 for pivoting the elongated support element 68 about the pivot bearing 66. The drive 70 can be, for example, an electric, electromagnetic, pneumatic, or hydraulic drive, e.g., a linear drive or a cylinder drive.

[0171] By means of the drive 70 and the swivel bearing 66, the hold-down element 58 can be swivelled towards and away from the outer layer of the film roll F.

[0172] Figure 9 shows an embodiment similar to the embodiment shown in Figure 8. An advantage of this embodiment may be that, with a comparatively simple and cost-effective implementation, the hold-down device 42 can be adapted to longer film rolls F.

[0173] Instead of an elongated support element, the hold-down device 42 of Figure 9 has an additional drive 72, which can also perform the function of the elongated support element of Figure 8. The additional drive 72 can support the hold-down element 58 at one end, e.g., a piston rod. The additional drive 72 can be, for example, an electric, electromagnetic, pneumatic, or hydraulic drive, e.g., a linear drive or a cylinder drive. Preferably, the additional drive 72 is a pneumatic cylinder, preferably without a multi-position function.

[0174] Figure 10 shows a further embodiment similar to the embodiment shown in Figures 2 to 4. An advantage of this embodiment can again be that, with a comparatively simple and cost-effective implementation, the hold-down device 42 can be adapted to longer film rolls F.

[0175] The hold-down elements 58 are partially movable in an axial direction of the mandrel 28 (parallel to the central axis M) and partially not movable in the axial direction of the mandrel 28.

[0176] Specifically, at least one hold-down element 58 can be held directly on a housing of the linear drive 50 or the slide 48 and thus be immovable in an axial direction of the mandrel 28. At least one further hold-down element 58 can be held on a movable drive element of the linear drive 50 and thus be movable in the axial direction of the mandrel 28. For example, the at least one further hold-down element 58 can be held at one end of a piston rod of the linear drive 50. Figure 11 shows a further embodiment of the hold-down element 42, which complements the embodiment of Figure 8. An advantage of this embodiment can again lie in its simple and cost-effective implementation.

[0177] The hold-down device 42 can have at least one hold-down element 58 designed as a clamping strip and another hold-down element 58 designed as a hold-down roller.

[0178] The clamping strip(s) and the hold-down roller can be held at the (further) end of the elongated support element 68. The at least one clamping strip can, for example, be equipped with roller(s) or a cover to protect the film roll F. Preferably, two clamping strips are included.

[0179] The at least one clamping strip can, for example, be additively manufactured and made of several adjacent layers of material, e.g. TPU.

[0180] Preferably, a clamping strip can be connected to the elongated support element 68 via a rotary drive 74. The rotary drive 74 can, for example, be a stepper motor. The rotary drive 74 can pivot the clamping strip about an axis that runs transversely to an axial direction of the mandrel 28. By means of the rotary drive 74, the clamping strip can be brought into and out of contact with the outer layer of the film roll F. Preferably, the rotary drive 74 is arranged at the (further) end of the elongated support element 68.

[0181] Preferably, a further clamping strip can be connected to the elongated support element 68 via a further rotary drive 76. The further rotary drive 76 can, for example, be a stepper motor. The further rotary drive 76 can pivot the clamping strip about an axis that runs transversely to an axial direction of the mandrel 28. By means of the further rotary drive 76, the further clamping strip can be brought into contact with and out of contact with the outer layer of the film roll F. Preferably, the further rotary drive 76 is arranged at the (further) end of the elongated support element 68.

[0182] The at least one rotary drive 74, 76 can be operated, if required, to swivel out the respective clamping strip, e.g. depending on the length of the respective film roll F.

[0183] Preferably, the two clamping strips can contact the outer layer with respect to a longitudinal axis of the film roll F in different, preferably non-overlapping, sections. For example, the clamping strip can contact the outer layer in a rear section of the film roll F, and the other clamping strip can contact the outer layer in a front section of the film roll F. The front section can be located further away from the mandrel 28 than the rear section. Preferably, the rotary drive 74 and the other rotary drive 76 can pivot the clamping strips in opposite directions to bring them into contact with and out of contact with the outer layer of the film roll F.

[0184] Figure 12 shows a further embodiment of the hold-down device 42, which modifies the embodiment shown in Figure 8. An advantage of this embodiment can again be its simple, weight-saving, and cost-effective implementation.

[0185] For example, the elongated support element 68 can be made in two parts. Both parts of the elongated support element 68 can be pivotally connected to each other. Both parts of the elongated support element 68 can be connected by means of a spring element 78. Preferably, the spring element 78 is a tension spring. The spring element 78 can, for example, be a coil spring. The positions of the two parts of the elongated support element 68 relative to each other can be adjusted via the spring element 78.

[0186] The spring element 78 can be actuated, e.g., subjected to tensile stress, via a cable mechanism 80 of the hold-down device 42. This actuation can cause the two parts of the elongated support element 68 to spread apart. This can, for example, lead to a flatter position of the elongated support element 68 and thus a shift in the position of a hold-down element 58 located at the end of the support element 68 in the longitudinal direction of the film roll F. Preferably, different positions of the hold-down element 58 can thus be set in the longitudinal direction of the film roll F.

[0187] It is understood that the features of the device 26, and in particular of the hold-down device 42, can be combined in any way with reference to the embodiments described in Figures 1 to 12.

[0188] In addition to the described techniques for securing the outer layer of a film roll F, there are, in principle, other possibilities for securing it. These possibilities can be used, for example, in combination with the hold-down device 42 disclosed herein, but also independently. For example, the film roll F can be clamped along its circumference by additional holders. Here, for example, the outer layer of the film roll F can be lightly pressed down by straps or retaining elements that conform to the circumference in a complementary manner. The outer layer can, for example, be partially or completely enclosed in the circumferential direction.

[0189] For example, the end of the film can be welded. Welding the film end to the last wound layer can secure it against unintentional unwinding. Various energy application methods can be used for this, such as lasers or heating elements.

[0190] For example, the end of the film can be sealed. Sealing the film end to the last wound layer can prevent it from unwinding unintentionally. Here, for instance, automated application of an adhesive to the inside of the film flap end or a sticker to the outside could be considered. To apply the sticker or adhesive precisely, it may be necessary to detect the position of the film roll flap and its end in order to apply the sticker or adhesive there. The adhesive or sticker can be applied, for example, using an additional application device.

[0191] For example, electrostatic properties can be enhanced. Static electricity is a surface phenomenon that arises when surfaces touch, rub against each other, and are then separated. This can lead to a transfer of negatively charged electrons from one atom to another. The resulting charge-induced attraction between two surfaces can be used to hold the loose end of the foil roll against the winding below, thus preventing it from dangling.

[0192] For example, compressed air can be used. The film flap can be subjected to a stream of compressed air to hold it against the film roll F. For this purpose, a device with nozzles for the compressed air outlet could be provided. Additive manufacturing would also be an option here, allowing for maximum flexibility in the device and nozzles, and enabling the nozzle outlets to be positioned so that they can hold the film flap in place along as much of the film roll's length as possible.

[0193] The invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Rather, a multitude of variants and modifications are possible, which also make use of the inventive concept and therefore fall within the scope of protection. In particular, the invention also claims protection for the subject matter and the features of the dependent claims independently of the referenced claims. In particular, the individual features of independent claim 1 are each disclosed independently of one another. In addition, the features of the dependent claims are also disclosed and claimable independently of all features of independent claim 1 and, for example, independently of the features relating to the presence and / or configuration of the mandrel and / or the hold-down device of independent claim 1.All range specifications herein are to be understood and claimed in such a way as to mean that all values ​​falling within the respective range are individually disclosed, e.g., also as preferred narrower outer limits of the respective range. Reference symbol list.

[0194] 10 Packaging system 54 Carrier body 12 Packaging device 56 Compensating element 14 Film roll holder 58 Holding element 16 Handling robot 60 Bracket

[0195] 18 Arm 62 Bracket

[0196] 20 propulsion unit 64 holding arm

[0197] 22 Traction element 66 Swivel bearing 24 Handling unit 68 Support element 26 Handling device 70 Drive

[0198] 28 mandrel 72 drive

[0199] 30 Clamping element 74 Rotary drive 32 Housing assembly 76 Rotary drive 34 Support 78 Spring element 36 Push-off device 80 Cable mechanism 38 Push-off element

[0200] 40 Actuator Bl Operating position 42 Hold-down B2 Operating position 44 Linear drive F Film roll

[0201] 46 Guide K Roller core 48 Slide M Center axis 50 Linear drive S Swivel axis 52 Guide

Claims

REQUIREMENTS 1. Device (26) for handling a roll of film (F), wherein the device (26) comprises: a mandrel (28), preferably a clamping mandrel, for internally clamping a roll core (K) of the film roll (F); and a hold-down device (42) comprising at least one hold-down element (58) which is movable relative to the mandrel (28) for contacting an outer layer of the internally clamped film roll (F), for holding down the contacted outer layer.

2. Device (26) according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the following is fulfilled: the at least one holding element (58) is movable radially to a central axis (M) of the mandrel (28); the at least one retaining element (58) is movable essentially parallel to a central axis (M) of the mandrel (28); and The at least one hold-down element (58) is pivotable, preferably by means of a pivot bearing (66) and / or driven by means of a drive (70, 72) of the hold-down device (42).

3. Device (26) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the hold-down device (42) has at least one of: a radial guide (46) which guides the at least one hold-down element (58) for movement substantially radially to a central axis (M) of the mandrel (28), preferably via a slide (48) which preferably engages with the radial guide (46); a radial linear drive (44) which is connected to the at least one hold-down element (58) for moving the at least one hold-down element (58) radially to a central axis (M) of the mandrel (28); an axial guide (52), preferably telescopic, which guides the at least one hold-down element (58) for movement substantially parallel to a central axis (M) of the mandrel (28), preferably via a support body (54) attached to the axial guide (52), which carries the at least one hold-down element (58); and an axial linear drive (50), preferably a multi-position cylinder, wherein the axial linear drive (50) is drivenly connected to the at least one hold-down element (58) for moving the at least one hold-down element (58) substantially parallel to a central axis (M) of the mandrel (28).

4. Device (26) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the following is fulfilled: The at least one retaining element (58) is elastically deformable, preferably made of a rubber material or of a thermoplastic polyurethane; and The at least one hold-down element (58) is formed from several adjacent, preferably additively manufactured, material layers, preferably from a thermoplastic polyurethane and / or together with a holder (62) holding the at least one hold-down element (58).

5. Device (26) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device has at least one hold-down element (58): at least one hold-down roller rotatable for rolling on the outer surface, preferably for rolling along a circumferential direction of the mandrel (28) or for rolling along an axial direction of the mandrel (28); and / or at least one, preferably pivotable, clamping strip for contacting the outer layer, preferably in a line contact along an axial direction of the mandrel (28).

6. Device (26) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: comprising several of the hold-down elements (58) which are spaced apart to contact the outer layer at several spaced-apart positions of the outer layer to hold down the outer layer, preferably: the several hold-down elements (58) are preferably spaced apart from each other in a circumferential direction of the mandrel (28) and / or in an axial direction of the mandrel (28).

7. Device (26) according to claim 6, wherein: the several hold-down elements (58) are arranged in several groups, each with at least two hold-down elements (58).

8. Device (26) according to claim 7, wherein at least one of the following is fulfilled: The groups are spaced apart from each other in an axial direction of the mandrel (28); the groups are arranged parallel to each other; the multiple hold-down elements (58) of each group are spaced apart from each other in a circumferential direction of the mandrel (28); the multiple hold-down elements (58) of a respective group are aligned lying in a common plane which extends essentially perpendicular to an axial direction of the mandrel (28); The groups each have between two and four hold-down elements (58); the multiple hold-down elements (58) of each group are arranged together to grip the outer layer section by section; The groups each have their own holder (62) for holding the hold-down elements (58) of the respective group; and At least one of the groups has a holder with two retaining arms (64) oriented at an angle, preferably obtuse angle, to each other, each of which carries at least one hold-down element (58) of the respective group.

9. Device (26) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the hold-down device (42) further comprises: a compensating element (56), preferably a compensating joint, for compensating for an offset, preferably an angular offset and / or an axial offset, wherein the compensating element (56) supports the at least one hold-down element (58), wherein preferably at least one of the following is fulfilled: the compensating element (56) has a ball joint, a hinge joint or a swivel joint; the compensating element (56) is floatingly mounted; and The compensating element (56) connects a support body (54) carrying the at least one hold-down element (58) to a drive element, preferably an end of a piston rod, a drive of the hold-down device (42).

10. Device (26) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the following is satisfied: The mandrel (28) has several clamping elements (30) that can be extended and retracted radially to a central axis (M) of the mandrel (28) for releasing and clamping the core (K) of the film roll (F), wherein the clamping elements (30) of the mandrel (28) are preferably actuated fluidically, preferably pneumatically, preferably for extending or retracting the clamping elements (30); and the device (26) further has a pusher (36) for pushing a film roll (F) carried by the mandrel (28) off the mandrel (28), preferably with a pusher element (38) and an actuator (40) which is operatively connected with the pusher element (38) for moving the pusher element (38).

11. Handling robot (16) for handling film rolls (F), wherein the handling robot (16) has: an arm (18), preferably a swivel arm or articulated arm; and a device (26) according to one of the preceding claims, where: the arm (18) carries the device (26), preferably as an end effector on the arm (18).

12. Handling robot (16) according to claim 11, wherein: the handling robot (16) is a stationary handling robot, preferably an articulated robot; or the handling robot (16) is a mobile handling robot, preferably a driverless transport vehicle, wherein preferably the handling robot (16) has a locomotion unit (20) for moving the handling robot (16) and a handling unit (24) with the arm (18) and the device (26), and the handling unit (24) is coupled as an interchangeable superstructure with a top of the locomotion unit (20).

13. Handling robot (12) according to claim 11 or claim 12, wherein: the handling robot (16) has a control device configured to operate the handling robot (16) such that: the mandrel (28) is inserted into the core (K) of the film roll (F) and clamped there to clamp the film roll (F) internally; the at least one hold-down element (58) is moved into contact with the outer layer of the internally clamped film roll (F) to hold down the outer layer; and to pivot the arm (18) to take over the internally clamped film roll (F), the outer layer of which is held down by the at least one hold-down element (58), preferably about a substantially horizontal pivot axis (S) and / or to position the film roll (F) above a locomotion unit (20) of the handling robot (16).

14. System (10) for packaging articles, preferably containers, comprising: a packaging device (12) for packaging the articles with a packaging film section of a film roll (F), preferably by enclosing several of the articles with the packaging film section, wherein the packaging device (12) has at least one film roll holder (14) for receiving the film roll (F); and a handling robot (16) according to one of claims 11 to 13, which is configured to transfer the film roll (F) to the film roll holder (14) and / or to take the film roll (F) or the roll core (K) from the film roll holder (14).

15. Method for handling a roll of film (F), preferably by means of a device (26) according to one of claims 1 to 10 and / or a handling robot (16) according to one of claims 11 to 13 and / or a system (10) according to claim 14, wherein the method comprises: Internal clamping of a core (K) of a film roll (F) by means of a mandrel (28); holding down an outer layer of the film roll (F) clamped internally by means of the mandrel (28) by means of at least one hold-down element (58) of a hold-down device (42); and optionally Swiveling the film roll (F), whose roll core (K) is clamped internally by means of the mandrel (28) and whose outer layer is held down by means of the at least one hold-down element (58), by means of an arm (18) of a handling robot (16), preferably mobile or stationary; and / or Transporting the film roll (F), whose roll core (K) is clamped internally by means of the mandrel (28) and whose outer layer is held down by means of the at least one hold-down element (58), by means of a handling robot (16), preferably mobile or stationary.

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