CN113795426B

CN113795426B - Packaging device for forming sealed packages

Info

Publication number: CN113795426B
Application number: CN202080033887.8A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 尼古拉·加鲁蒂; 保罗·萨尼邦蒂
Original assignee: Tetra Laval Holdings and Finance SA
Current assignee: Tetra Laval Holdings and Finance SA
Priority date: 2019-05-15
Filing date: 2020-04-10
Publication date: 2023-09-12
Anticipated expiration: 2040-04-10
Also published as: WO2020229068A1; CN113795426A; EP3738894A1; EP3738894B1; JP2022532646A; US20220161954A1

Abstract

A packaging device (1) for forming sealed packages (2) filled with a pourable product is described. The packaging device (1) comprises a defining element (45) movably arranged in use within the tube (3) and designed to divide the tube (3) into a first space (46) and a second space (47). The defining element (45) is arranged such that the defining element (45) is adapted to move along a first direction (D1) and a second direction (D2) opposite to the first direction (D1) and between at least a first position and a second position, wherein the second direction (D2) is substantially parallel to the tube (3). The defining element (45) comprises a main engagement portion (60) configured to abut against a main abutment portion (61) of the gas supply tube (49) or the filling tube (31), wherein the defining element (45) is in the first position. The main abutment portion (61) and/or the main engagement portion (60) are designed such that there is at least one opening (62) and/or at least one channel between the main abutment portion (61) and the main engagement portion (60), wherein the defining element (45) is in the first position.

Description

Packaging device for forming sealed packages

Technical Field

The present application relates to a packaging device for forming sealed packages, in particular for forming sealed packages filled with pourable products.

Background

It is well known that many liquid or pourable food products, such as fruit juice, UHT (ultra-high temperature treated) milk, wine, tomato sauce, etc., are sold in packages made of sterilized packaging material.

A typical example is the parallelepiped-shaped package for liquid or pourable food products called the sterilizing (registered trademark) of leo, which is made by sealing and folding a laminated strip packaging material. The packaging material has a multi-layer structure comprising a base layer, for example a paper base layer, both sides of which are covered with layers of heat-seal plastic material, for example polyethylene. For sterilized packages for long-term storage products, such as UHT milk, the packaging material also comprises a layer of oxygen-barrier material, such as aluminium foil, which is superimposed on a layer of heat-seal plastic material and is in turn covered by another layer of heat-seal plastic material forming the inner surface of the package eventually contacting the food product.

Such packages are typically produced on fully automatic packaging devices which advance the web of packaging material by means of a conveying device through a sterilizing unit for sterilizing the web of packaging material, for example by chemical sterilization (for example by using a chemical sterilant, such as a hydrogen peroxide solution) or physical sterilization (for example by electron beams). The sterilized web of packaging material is then held and advanced in an isolation chamber defining an interior environment, and is folded and sealed longitudinally in the interior environment to form a tube, which is further fed in a vertical advance direction.

To complete the forming operation, the tube is filled with pourable food product through a filling tube, and the tube is sealed laterally during advancement in a vertical advancement direction and then cut along equally spaced cross sections in a package forming unit of the packaging device.

Pillow packs are thus obtained in the packaging device, each pillow pack having a longitudinal sealing strip and a top transverse sealing strip and a bottom transverse sealing strip.

A packaging device comprising:

-a defining element arranged, in use, inside the tube and dividing the tube in a first space fluidly connected to the internal environment and a second space arranged downstream of the first space; and

-a sterilizing gas supply device configured to direct a sterilizing gas into the second space and to control the pressure of the sterilizing gas to be greater than the pressure in the isolation chamber.

The defining element includes a channel through which the fill tube extends, an annular space being maintained between the fill tube and an edge defining the channel.

Further, the sterilizing gas supply apparatus includes a gas supply tube coaxial with the filling tube. In particular, the filling tube extends partly within the gas supply tube and out of the gas supply tube and through the channel, whereby, in use, the sterilizing gas to be fed into the second space flows through the annular channel defined by the filling tube and the gas supply tube.

In order to accommodate inherent fluctuations that occur during packaging, the defining element is movable in a first direction and a second direction opposite to the first direction. The first direction and the second direction are both parallel to the vertical pushing direction.

In use, the defining element is lifted by the sterilizing gas present in the second space, and the defining element is movable in the first direction until a first engagement portion of the defining element abuts against a first abutment portion of the gas supply tube, and in the second direction until a second engagement portion of the defining element abuts against a second abutment portion of the supporting element, which is arranged below the defining element.

It has been observed that when the first engagement portion is disengaged from the first abutment portion, a gas leakage flow from the second space through the annular channel into the internal environment occurs and that there is a space between the defining element and the gas supply tube, without leakage flow when the first engagement portion abuts against the first abutment portion.

It has further been observed that this behaviour leads to the presence of instability, which increases the complexity of the overall packaging process control.

Accordingly, there is a need in the art for improved packaging devices. In particular in order to overcome at least one of the above drawbacks.

Disclosure of Invention

It is therefore an object of the present application to provide an improved packaging device in a simple and low cost manner.

According to the present application, there is provided a packaging device as claimed in claim 1.

Further advantageous embodiments of the packaging device according to the application are specified in the dependent claims.

Drawings

Non-limiting embodiments of the application will be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a packaging device according to the present application, with portions removed for clarity;

FIG. 2 is a detailed schematic view of the packaging device of FIG. 1, with portions removed for clarity;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the packaging device of FIG. 1, with portions removed for clarity; and

FIG. 4 is a partially detailed perspective view of FIG. 3, with portions removed for clarity; and

fig. 5 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of fig. 3, with portions removed for clarity.

Detailed Description

Numeral 1 generally indicates a packaging device for producing sealed packages 2 of pourable food products, in particular sterilized and/or sterile-treated pourable food products, such as pasteurized milk or juice, from a tube 3 of a web 4 of packaging material. In particular, in use, the tube 3 extends along a longitudinal axis L (in particular with the axis L oriented vertically).

The web of packaging material 4 has a multi-layer structure (not shown) and comprises at least one layer of fibrous material, for example a paper or cardboard layer, and at least two layers of heat-seal plastic material, for example polyethylene, which are interposed between the layers of heat-seal plastic material. One of the two layers of heat-seal plastic material defines an inner surface of package 2 that ultimately contacts the pourable product.

Preferably, but not necessarily, web 4 also comprises a layer of a gas-and light-barrier material, such as an aluminium foil or an ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) film, in particular arranged between one of the layers of heat-seal plastic material and the layer of fibrous material. Preferably, but not necessarily, web 4 also comprises another layer of heat-seal plastic material interposed between the layer of gas-and light-barrier material and the layer of fibrous material.

The typical package 2 obtained by the packaging device 1 comprises a sealed longitudinal seam portion 5 and a pair of transverse sealing portions 6, in particular a top transverse sealing portion and a bottom transverse sealing portion (i.e. one transverse sealing portion 6 located in an upper part of the package 2 and another transverse sealing portion 6 located in a lower part of the package 2).

With particular reference to fig. 1 and 2, the packaging device 1 comprises:

a conveying device 7 configured to advance the web 4 (in a manner known per se) along a web advancement path P from a conveying station 8 to a tube forming station 9, at which tube forming station 9, in use, the web 4 is formed into a tube 3;

the isolation chamber 10 has an internal environment 11, in particular an internal sterile environment, containing (including) a sterile gas, in particular sterile air, and being separated from an external environment 12;

a tube forming and sealing device 13 arranged at least partially inside the isolation chamber 10 and adapted to form and longitudinally seal the tube 3 inside the internal environment 11 and from the web 4 advancing in use, in particular at the tube forming station 9;

filling means 14 for filling tube 3 with a pourable product; and

in particular, a package forming unit 15 adapted to form, transversely seal and preferably, but not necessarily, transversely cut the advancing tube 3 for forming the package 2 in use.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the packaging device 1 further comprises a sterilizing unit (not shown and known per se) adapted to sterilize, in use, the advancing web 4 at a sterilizing station, in particular a sterilizing station arranged upstream of the tube forming station 9 along the web advancement path P, in particular by chemical and/or physical sterilization.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the conveying device 7 is configured to advance the tube 3, in particular also any intermediate of the tube 3, along the tube advancing path Q (in particular from the tube forming station 9 to the package forming unit 15 and at least partially through the package forming unit 15) in a manner known per se.

In particular, the expression intermediate of the tube 3 refers to any configuration of the web 4 before the tube structure is obtained and after the folding of the web 4 has been started by the tube forming device 13. In other words, the intermediate of the tube 3 is the result of the gradual folding of the web 4 to obtain the tube 3 (in particular by overlapping the side edges of the web 4 with each other).

Preferably, but not necessarily, the tube forming and sealing device 13 comprises a tube forming unit 22, which tube forming unit 22 is at least partially, preferably completely, arranged within the isolation chamber 10, in particular at the tube forming station 9, and is adapted (configured) to gradually fold the advancing web 4 into the tube 3, in particular by overlapping the side edges with each other, to form a longitudinal seam portion 23 of the tube 3. In particular, the tube forming unit 22 extends along a longitudinal axis M (in particular having a vertical orientation).

In particular, seam portion 23 extends downwardly from an initial elevation (not specifically shown) along tube advancement path Q. In other words, the initial height is at a position where the side edges start to overlap each other to form the seam portion 23.

In particular, at least a portion of tube advancing path Q is located within isolation chamber 10 (in particular, within internal environment 11), and even more particularly, another portion of tube advancing path Q is located within package forming unit 15.

In more detail, the axes L and M are parallel to each other. Even more in detail, the tube forming unit 22 defines, in use, the axis L of the tube 3.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the tube forming unit 22 comprises at least two forming ring assemblies 24 and 25, which at least two forming ring assemblies 24 and 25 are arranged in particular inside the isolation chamber 10 (in particular inside the internal environment 11), adapted to be gradually folded into the tube 3 in cooperation with the other web 4, in particular by overlapping the side edges of the web 4 with each other.

Even more particularly, the ring assemblies 24 and 25 are formed spaced apart from and parallel to each other.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the tube forming and sealing device 13 further comprises a sealing unit adapted (configured) to seal the tube 3 longitudinally along the seam portion 23. In other words, in use, the seam portion 23 formed by the tube forming unit 22 is sealed by activation of the sealing unit.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the sealing unit is positioned at least partially within the isolation chamber 10.

It must be noted that the respective longitudinal sealing seam portions 5 of the individual packages 2 are produced by cutting the tube 3. In other words, the respective seam portion 5 of the individual packages 2 is a respective portion of the seam portion 23 of the tube 3.

Furthermore, the sealing unit comprises a sealing head 29, which sealing head 29 is arranged within the isolation chamber 10 and is adapted (configured) to transfer thermal energy to the tube 3, in particular to the joint portion 23, to longitudinally seal the tube 3, in particular the joint portion 23. The sealing head 29 may be of any type. In particular, the sealing head 29 may be of the type that operates by induction heating and/or by a flow of heated gas and/or by means of ultrasound and/or by means of laser heating and/or by any other means.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the sealing unit further comprises a pressing assembly (only partially shown) adapted to apply a mechanical force to the tube 3, in particular to the joint portion 23, to ensure a longitudinal sealing of the tube 3 along the joint portion 23.

With particular reference to fig. 1 to 3 and 5, the filling device 14 comprises a filling tube 31 for introducing, in use, a pourable product into the tube 3. In particular, the filling tube 31 is fluidly or controllably connectable to a pourable product storage tank (not shown and known per se) adapted to store and/or provide a pourable product to be packaged, in particular a sterilized and/or sterile-treated pourable food product.

Preferably, but not necessarily, in use, the filling tube 31 is placed at least partially inside the tube 3.

In particular, the filling tube 31 comprises a linear main tube portion 32 inside the tube 3 and extending parallel to the tube 3 (i.e. parallel to the axis M and/or the axis L).

Preferably, but not necessarily, the main tube portion 32 includes an upper portion 33 and a lower portion 34 that are removably coupled to one another. In more detail, the lower portion 34 comprises an outlet opening from which, in use, the pourable product is fed into the tube 3.

According to a preferred non-limiting embodiment as shown in fig. 2, the package forming unit 15 comprises a plurality of pairs of at least one respective operating assembly 35 (only one shown) and at least one counter-operating assembly 36 (only one shown); and

in particular, a conveying device (not shown and known per se) is adapted to advance pairs of respective operating assemblies 35 and respective counter-operating assemblies 36 along respective conveying paths.

In more detail, each operating assembly 35 is adapted to cooperate, in use, with a respective counter-operating assembly 36 of a respective pair to form a respective package 2 from tube 3. In particular, each operating assembly 35 and corresponding counter-operating assembly 36 are configured to form, laterally seal and preferably, but not necessarily, also laterally cut tube 3 to form package 2.

In more detail, each operating assembly 35 and respective counter-operating assembly 36 are adapted to cooperate with each other to form respective packages 2 from tube 3, when advanced along respective operating portions of respective conveying paths. In particular, each operating assembly 35 and the corresponding counter-operating assembly 36 are parallel to the tube 3 and advance in the same direction as the tube 3 during advancement along the respective operating portion.

In more detail, each operating assembly 35 and the respective counter-operating assembly 36 are configured to contact the tube 3 when advancing along the respective operating portion of the respective conveying path.

More specifically, each of the operating assembly 35 and the counter operating assembly 36 includes:

a half-shell 37 adapted to contact tube 3 and at least partially define the shape of package 2;

one of the sealing elements 38 or counter-sealing elements 39 adapted to seal the tube 3 transversely between adjacent packages 2 in a known manner to obtain a transverse sealing portion 6; and

preferably, but not necessarily, one of the cutting elements (not shown and known per se) or counter-cutting elements (not shown and known per se) is used for transversely cutting the tube 3 between adjacent packages 2, in particular between the respective transverse sealing portions 6, in a manner known per se.

In particular, each half-shell 37 is adapted to be controlled between a working position and a rest position by means of a drive assembly (not shown). In particular, each half-shell 37 is adapted to be controlled to a working position when a respective operating assembly 35 or a respective counter-operating assembly 36 is, in use, advanced along a respective operating portion.

With particular reference to fig. 1 and 2, the isolation chamber 10 includes an outlet opening for allowing the tube 3 to exit the isolation chamber 10 during advancement along the path Q. In particular, the outlet opening is arranged downstream of the tube forming station 9 along the path Q.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the outlet opening is arranged in the region of the downstream (end) portion of the isolation chamber 10.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the isolation chamber 10 further comprises an inlet opening opposite to the outlet opening and configured to allow (sterilized) the web 4 to enter the isolation chamber 10. In particular, the inlet opening is located in the upstream portion of the isolation chamber 10.

According to a preferred non-limiting embodiment of the disclosure, the internal environment 11 comprises (i.e., contains) a sterilizing gas, in particular sterilizing air, at a given pressure. Preferably, but not necessarily, the given pressure is (slightly) higher than the ambient pressure to reduce the risk of any contaminants and/or pollutants entering the internal environment 11. In particular, the given pressure is about 100Pa to 500Pa (0.001 bar to 0.005 bar) above ambient pressure.

According to the application and with particular reference to fig. 1 to 5, the packaging device 1 further comprises a defining element 45 movably arranged in use inside the tube 3 and designed to divide the tube 3 into a first space 46 and a second space 47 in use.

According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the defining element 45 is arranged within the isolation chamber 10, in particular upstream of the outlet opening along the tube advancing path Q.

In more detail, the first space 46 is defined by the tube 3, in particular the wall of the tube 3, and the defining element 45. Furthermore, the first space 46 is open to the interior environment 11. Even more specifically, the limiting element 45 is at a downstream portion (with respect to the tube advancing path Q), in particular the bottom, of the first space 46 itself.

In more detail, the second space 47 is delimited in use by the tube 3 (in particular the wall of the tube 3), the defining element 45 and the transverse sealing portion 6 of one respective package 2 (to be formed).

In other words, the second space 47 extends from the defining element 45 to the transverse sealing portion 6 in a direction parallel to the tube advancing path Q (i.e. parallel to the axis L).

In further other words, the defining element 45 defines the second space 47 at an upstream portion (with respect to the tube advancing path Q) of the second space 47 itself, in particular at the upper portion; and the transverse sealing portion 6 defines the second space 47 at a downstream portion (with respect to the tube advancing path Q) of the second space 47 itself, in particular at the bottom.

In more detail, the first space 46 is arranged upstream of the second space 47 along the tube advancing path Q. Even more specifically, the first space 46 is arranged upstream of the defining element 45 along the tube advancing path Q and the second space 47 is arranged downstream of the defining element 45 along the tube advancing path Q. In the particular example shown, the second space 47 is arranged below the first space 46.

Advantageously and with particular reference to fig. 1 and 2, the packaging device 1 comprises a sterilizing gas supply device 48 (only partly showing to what extent it is necessary for an understanding of the disclosed application) configured to direct a main flow of sterilizing gas to the second space 47 at least in such a way that the pressure of the sterilizing gas within the second space 47 is higher than the pressure of the sterilizing gas present within the isolation chamber 10 and/or the internal environment 11 and/or the first space 46.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the sterilizing gas supply apparatus 48 is further adapted (configured) to direct, in use, another stream of sterilizing gas (not specifically shown) into the isolation chamber 10 and/or the internal environment 11.

In particular, the second space 47 defines a high pressure zone inside the tube 3 and the first space 46 defines a low pressure zone inside the tube 3.

In the context of the present application, a high pressure zone is understood to be such that the internal pressure is in the range of about 5kPa to 40kPa (0.05 bar to 0.40 bar), in particular about 10kPa to 30kPa (0.10 bar to 0.30 bar), above ambient pressure (i.e. the pressure in the second space 47 is in the range of about 5kPa to 40kPa (0.05 bar to 0.40 bar), in particular about 10kPa to 30kPa (0.10 bar to 0.30 bar), above ambient pressure). In other words, the second space 47 is overpressurized with respect to the first space 46.

The low pressure zone is understood to mean a pressure slightly above ambient pressure. In particular, only slightly above ambient pressure means that the pressure is preferably in the range between 100Pa and 500Pa (0.001 bar to 0.005 bar) above ambient pressure.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the first space 46 is (directly) in fluid connection with the internal environment 11. Thus, the sterilizing gas present in the first space 46 may flow to the interior environment 11.

In particular, the tube 3 (and its intermediates) is at least partially located within the isolation chamber 10 (in particular, within the internal environment 11).

Preferably, the pressure in the first space 46 is (substantially) equal to a given pressure in the isolation chamber 10, in particular in the internal environment 11.

According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, in use, the defining element 45 is arranged downstream of the above-mentioned initial height along the tube advancing path Q. In other words, the limiting element 45 is located below the position where the seam portion 23 starts to extend in the downstream direction (with respect to the tube advancing path Q). In other words, the limiting element 45 is arranged below the position where the side edges of the web 4 are overlapped to form the seam portion 23.

Furthermore, in use, the filling device 14, in particular the filling tube 31, is adapted (configured) to guide the pourable product into the second space 47. Thus, in use, the second space 47 contains a pourable product and a pressurized sterilizing gas introduced into the second space 47. The pressurized sterilizing gas provides the hydrostatic force necessary to properly form package 2.

Advantageously, but not necessarily, and with particular reference to fig. 1 to 5, the sterilizing gas supply device 48 comprises a gas supply tube 49, the gas supply tube 49 being configured to direct a main flow of sterilizing gas into the second space 47; in other words, in use, a main flow of sterilizing gas enters the second space 47 through the gas supply tube 49.

In particular, the gas supply tube 49 comprises an outlet mouth 50, which outlet mouth 50 is configured to allow a main flow of sterilizing gas to leave the gas supply tube 49 and in particular enter the second space 47.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the gas supply tube 49 further comprises a collar portion 51 surrounding and/or defining the outlet mouth 50.

In particular, the gas supply tube 49, in particular the outlet mouth 50 and/or the collar portion 51, is arranged upstream of the defining element 45 along the tube advancing path Q.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the gas supply tube 49 comprises at least one main portion 52 which, in use, extends within the tube 3. In particular, the main portion 52 extends parallel, preferably but not necessarily coaxial, to the main tube portion 32.

According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the main portion 52 carries and/or includes the outlet mouth 50 and/or collar portion 51.

In the particular example shown, the filling tube 31 extends at least partially within the gas supply tube 49. Alternatively, the gas supply tube 49 may extend at least partially within the fill tube 31.

In more detail, at least the main tube portion 32 extends at least partially within the main portion 52.

In particular, the cross-sectional diameter of main tube portion 32 is smaller than the cross-sectional diameter of main portion 52.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the gas supply tube 49 and the filling tube 31 delimit/define an annular duct 53 for supplying a main flow of sterilizing gas into the second space 47. In particular, the annular duct 53 is defined by the inner surface of the gas supply tube 49 and the outer surface of the filling tube 31.

According to a preferred non-limiting embodiment, the restriction element 45 comprises a channel 57, in particular having a circular cross-sectional profile, configured to allow the main flow to enter the second space 47 through the channel 57. In particular, the channel 57 is arranged, in use, substantially coaxially with the filling tube 31 and/or the gas supply tube 49, in particular the outlet 50, and/or the longitudinal axis M and/or the longitudinal axis L.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the filling pipe 31, in particular the main pipe portion 32, extends through the channel 57 into the second space 47.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the central edge portion 58 of the defining element 45 defines a channel 57 and the central edge portion 58 delimits and/or defines, together with the filling tube 31, in particular the main tube portion 32, an annular channel 59 through which channel 59 the main flow of sterilizing gas enters the second space 47 in use.

Specifically, in use, a main flow of gas flows out of the gas supply tube 49 through the outlet mouth 50 and into the second space 47 through the annular channel 59.

Advantageously, the defining element 45 is arranged such that the defining element 45 is adapted to move along a first direction D1 and a second direction D2 opposite to the first direction D1. The first direction D1 and the second direction D2 are (substantially) parallel to the longitudinal axis L and/or the tube 3 and/or the longitudinal axis M. Furthermore, the defining element 45 is adapted (configured) to be moved between at least a first position and a second position, in particular a first end position and a second end position. In particular, in use, the defining element 45 moves towards and away from the gas supply tube 49 when moving in the first direction D1 and in the second direction D2, respectively.

According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the first location is upstream of the second location along the tube advancement path Q. In the particular non-limiting embodiment shown, the defining element 45 is configured to move downwardly from a first position to a second position and upwardly from the second position to the first position.

In particular, as will be disclosed below, the first and second positions of the defining element 45 are delimited and/or defined by respective portions of the packaging device 1.

According to a preferred non-limiting embodiment, the defining element 45 is also adapted to move along a third direction D3 and a fourth direction D4 opposite to the third direction D3. The third direction D3 and the fourth direction D4 are transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the longitudinal axis L and/or the longitudinal axis M and/or the first direction D1 and/or the second direction D2.

Advantageously, the defining element 45 comprises a main engagement portion 60 configured to abut against a main abutment portion 61 of the gas supply tube 49 or of the filling tube 31, the defining element 45 being in the first position in the particular case of the gas supply tube 49 shown in fig. 1 to 5.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the main abutment portion 61 and/or the main engagement portion 60 have an annular shape.

Advantageously, the main abutment portion 61 and/or the main engagement portion 60 are designed such that one or more openings 62 and/or one or more channels are present between the main abutment portion 61 and the main engagement portion 60, wherein the defining element 45 is in the first position.

Advantageously, the opening 62 and/or the channel is configured to establish a fluid connection between the internal environment 11 and the gas supply tube 49 and/or the second space 47 through the channel and/or the opening 62, in particular allowing in use an auxiliary flow for the gas to occur between the main abutment portion 61 and the main engagement portion 60, while the defining element 45 is in the first position. In this way it is ensured that there is an auxiliary flow independent of the position of the defining element 45. Furthermore, this means that no change occurs between the presence and complete interruption of the auxiliary flow, as is the case with the prior art packaging device described in the introductory part. It should be noted that the effective auxiliary flow depends on the distance of the defining element 45 from the main abutment 61, however, these variations introduce significantly less instability than if the auxiliary flow were sometimes present and not otherwise.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the collar portion 51 comprises a main abutment portion 61, wherein the main abutment portion 61 faces the defining element 45, in particular the main engagement portion 60.

According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the defining element 45 comprises a main portion 63 facing the gas supply tube 49, in particular the outlet mouth 50 and/or the collar portion 51. In particular, the main portion 63 carries and/or includes and/or supports the main engagement portion 60.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the main portion 63 comprises and/or is provided with a channel 57.

According to a preferred non-limiting embodiment and with particular reference to fig. 4, the defining element 45 comprises one or more spacer elements 64, which one or more spacer elements 64 face the main abutment portion 61 and/or the gas supply tube 49 and protrude towards the main abutment portion 61 and/or the gas supply tube 49. In particular, the spacing element 64 carries and/or comprises and/or defines (in particular cooperatively) the main engagement portion 60.

In particular, the spacing elements 64 protrude from the main portion 62.

Preferably, but not necessarily, each spacer element 64 has an arcuate profile.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the spacer elements 64 surround the channel 58 and are spaced apart from one another around the channel 58 to form the opening 62. In particular, adjacent spacer elements 64 do not contact each other to form openings 62.

According to an alternative embodiment, not shown, adjacent elements 64 may be connected to each other by bridge portions, which also partially define the respective openings 62.

In use, with the defining element 45 in the first position, the spacing element 64 ensures that there is a space between the main portion 63 and the collar portion 51, and the opening 62 ensures an auxiliary flow of sterilizing gas, while the defining element 45 is also in the first position.

Alternatively or additionally, the primary engagement portion 60 and/or the primary abutment portion 61 includes one or more grooves defining one or more channels.

According to a preferred non-limiting embodiment and with particular reference to fig. 3 and 5, the packaging device 1 further comprises a support element 65 having an auxiliary abutment portion 66, and the defining element 45 comprises an auxiliary engagement portion 67, in particular with respect to the main engagement portion 60, configured to abut against the auxiliary abutment portion 66, wherein the defining element 45 is in the second position.

In particular, the limiting element 45 is interposed between the main abutment portion 61 and the auxiliary abutment portion 66. More specifically, in use, when the defining element 45 is moved in the first and second directions D1 and D2, the defining element 45 is moved towards the main abutment portion 61 and the auxiliary abutment portion 66, respectively.

According to the non-limiting embodiment shown, the limiting element 45 is interposed between the gas supply tube 49 and the support element 65. Thus, movement of the defining element 45 in the first and second directions D1 and D2 is defined by the gas supply tube 49 and the support element 65, respectively, and between the gas supply tube 49 and the support element 65.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the support element 65 is connected to the filling tube 31 and/or the gas supply tube 49. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the filling pipe 31 is connected to the filling pipe 31, in particular the main pipe portion 32, and protrudes towards the gas supply pipe 49.

According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, a first end 68 of the support element 65 is connected to the filling tube 31 and a second end 69 of the support element 65 opposite the first end 68 comprises an auxiliary abutment portion 66.

In particular, when the sterilizing gas supply apparatus 48 is deactivated, the second space 47 does not contain pressurized sterilizing gas, the defining element 45 is supported by the supporting element 65 and/or "sits" on the supporting element 65.

According to a preferred non-limiting embodiment, the support element 65 has the shape of a truncated cone (truncated cone) and is hollow. In particular, the support element 65 further comprises a plurality of holes 70 for the main flow of sterilizing gas.

According to a preferred non-limiting embodiment and with particular reference to fig. 2 and 5, the defining element 45 is designed to provide, in use and in cooperation with the tube 3, at least one fluid channel 71 (in particular having an annular shape) for fluidly connecting the second space 47 with the first space 46, allowing a direct leakage flow of sterilizing gas from the second space 47 into the first space 46 in use. In particular, in use, the sterilizing gas leaks from the second space 47 (high pressure zone) to the first space 46 (low pressure zone) through the fluid channel 71. By providing the fluid passage 71, the air pressure in the second space 47 can be controlled with improved accuracy.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the defining element 45 is designed such that, in use, the fluid channel 71 is provided by a gap between the inner surface of the tube 3 and the defining element 45 (in particular the peripheral portion of the defining element 45).

According to a preferred non-limiting embodiment, the limiting element 45 has a radial extension smaller than the inner diameter of the tube 3.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the sterilizing gas supply apparatus 48 is configured to allow for a variable main flow of sterilizing gas (i.e. adapted to control a varying flow rate) by maintaining a substantially constant gas pressure within the second space 47 at various flow rates.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the sterilizing gas supply apparatus 48 is adapted to vary the main flow of sterilizing gas in dependence of the volume of sterilizing gas flowing from the second space 47, in particular through at least the fluid channel 71, to the first space 46.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the sterilizing gas supply device 48 is adapted (configured) to control the gas pressure in the second space 47 in a range between 5kPa and 40kPa (0.05 bar to 0.40 bar), in particular between 10kPa and 30kPa (0.10 bar to 0.30 bar), above ambient pressure.

Advantageously, but not necessarily, and with particular reference to fig. 1 and 2, the sterilizing gas supply apparatus 48 comprises a closed sterilizing gas circuit from the interior environment 11 into the second space 47 and back to the interior environment 11. This allows to simplify the overall structure of the packaging device 1 (in particular in connection with the control and supply of the sterilizing gas).

According to a preferred non-limiting embodiment of the disclosure, the sterilizing gas supply device 48 is adapted to withdraw sterilizing gas from the interior environment 11, pressurize (compress) the sterilizing gas and direct the pressurized (compressed) sterilizing gas into the second space 47.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the sterilizing gas supply apparatus 48 comprises at least one pumping apparatus 74, which pumping apparatus 74 is configured to draw sterilizing gas from the internal environment 11, pressurize (compress) the sterilizing gas and direct the pressurized sterilizing gas into the second space 47.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the pumping device 74 is a rotary machine, even more particularly a compressor.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the sterilizing gas supply apparatus 48 further includes:

a gas conduit 75 in direct fluid connection with the pumping device 74 and the gas supply tube 49; and

a gas conduit 76 in direct fluid connection with the internal environment 11 and the pumping device 74.

Thus, in use, sterilizing gas is withdrawn from the interior environment 11 through gas conduit 76, pressurized (compressed) by pumping apparatus 74, and then directed into the second space 47 through gas conduit 75 and gas supply tube 49.

In use, the packaging device 1 forms a package 2 filled with a pourable product. In particular, the packaging device 1 forms packages 2 from a tube 3 formed from a web 4, the tube 3 being continuously filled with a pourable product.

In more detail, the operation of the packaging device 1 comprises:

a first advancing step for advancing the web 4 along the path P;

a tube forming and sealing step during which the web 4 forms a tube 3 and the tube 3 is sealed longitudinally, in particular along the seam portion 23;

a second advancing step during which the tube 3 is advanced along the path Q;

a filling step during which the pourable product is filled into tube 3; and

a package forming step during which packages 2 are formed from tube 3, in particular by shaping of tube 3 (the respective (lower) portion) and transverse sealing and cutting of tube 3.

In more detail, the tube forming and sealing step includes a sub-step of gradually overlapping side edges of the tube 3 with each other to form the joint portion 23 and a sub-step of longitudinally sealing the tube 3.

The filling step comprises the substep of guiding the pourable product through filling tube 31 into second space 47.

During the package forming step, the package 2 is formed by operation of the package forming unit 15. The package forming unit 15 receives the tube 3 after the tube forming and sealing steps. In particular, during the package forming step, the operating assembly 35 and the counter-operating assembly 36 are advanced along their respective transport paths. As operating assemblies 35 and their respective counter-operating assemblies 36 are advanced along their respective operating portions, operating assemblies 35 and respective counter-operating assemblies 36 cooperate with each other to form, transversely seal and preferably, but not necessarily, transversely cut advancing tube 3 to form package 2. During the package forming step, the pourable product is led into second space 47 to obtain filled package 2.

The operation of the packaging device 1 further comprises a pressurizing step during which a sterilizing gas, in particular a pressurized (compressed) sterilizing gas, is led into the second space 47.

In more detail, during the pressurizing step, the sterilizing gas is directed, in particular continuously, into the second space 47 such that the gas pressure in the second space 47 is in the range between 5kPa and 40kPa (0.05 bar to 0.40 bar), in particular 10kPa to 30kPa (0.10 bar to 0.30 bar), above ambient pressure.

In particular, the second space 47 contains a pourable product and a pressurized sterilizing gas.

Preferably, but not necessarily, during the pressurization step, an auxiliary flow of sterilizing gas flows between the main abutment portion 61 and the main engagement portion 60 independently of the position of the defining element 45 between the first and second positions.

Preferably, but not necessarily, a sterilizing gas leakage flow is established from the second space 47 to the first space 46 through the fluid channel 71.

According to a preferred non-limiting embodiment, during the pressurization step, the sterilizing gas is extracted from the isolation chamber 10, in particular from the internal environment 11, pressurized (compressed) and then guided, in particular continuously, into the second space 47.

In more detail, during the pressurization step, the pumping means 74 draw out the sterilizing gas from the isolation chamber 10, in particular from the internal environment 11, pressurize (compress) the sterilizing gas and direct the pressurized (compressed) gas through the gas supply tube 49 into the second space 47.

The advantages of the packaging device 1 according to the application will be clear from the foregoing description.

In particular, by providing the opening 62 and/or the channel, it is ensured that there is always an auxiliary gas flow between the main abutment portion 61 and the main engagement portion 60, even when the defining element 45 is in the first position. This increases the stability of the overall system, as a complete shut-off of the auxiliary flow (as in prior art packaging devices) reduces stability. Thus, control of the packaging device 1 is facilitated relative to prior art packaging devices.

It is clear that modifications may be made to the packaging device 1 described herein without departing from the scope of protection as defined in the accompanying claims.

According to an alternative embodiment, not shown, the gas supply tube 49 may replace the filling tube 31 and the filling tube 31 may replace the gas supply tube 49.

Claims

1. A packaging device (1) for forming a plurality of sealed packages (2) filled with a pourable product, said packaging device (1) comprising:

-a conveying device (7) adapted to advance the web of packaging material (4) along an advance path (P);

-an isolation chamber (10) separating an internal environment (11) containing a sterilizing gas from an external environment (12);

-a tube forming and sealing device (13) arranged at least partially inside said isolation chamber (10) and adapted to form and longitudinally seal a tube (3) from a web of packaging material (4) advancing in use, said tube (3) extending along a longitudinal axis (L); wherein the conveying device (7) is also adapted to advance the tube (3) along a tube advancing path (Q);

-a defining element (45) movably arranged in use within the tube (3) and designed to divide the tube (3) within a first space (46) and a second space (47), the first space (46) being in fluid connection with the internal environment (11), the second space (47) being arranged downstream of the first space (46) along the tube advancement path (Q);

-a filling device (14) having a filling tube (31), said filling tube (31) being arranged in use within said tube (3) and being adapted to guide a pourable product through said filling tube (31) into said second space (47) in use;

-a sterilizing gas supply device (48) having a gas supply tube (49), the gas supply tube (49) being arranged in use in the tube (3) and configured to direct a main flow of sterilizing gas through the gas supply tube (49) into the second space (47) such that the gas pressure within the second space (49) is higher than the gas pressure within the isolation chamber (10);

wherein the defining element (45) is arranged such that the defining element (45) is adapted to move in a first direction (D1) and a second direction (D2) and between at least a first position and a second position, the second direction (D2) being opposite to the first direction (D1) and the second direction (D2) being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis (L) of the tube (3);

wherein the gas supply tube (49) or the filling tube (31) comprises a main abutment portion (61);

wherein the defining element (45) comprises a main engagement portion (60), the main engagement portion (60) being configured to abut against the main abutment portion (61) when the defining element (45) is in the first position;

wherein the main abutment portion (61) and/or the main engagement portion (60) are designed such that, when the defining element (45) is in the first position, at least one opening (62) and/or at least one channel is present between the main abutment portion (61) and the main engagement portion (60);

wherein the at least one opening (62) and/or the at least one channel are configured such that a fluid connection is established between the interior environment (11) and the gas supply tube (49) and/or the second space (47) through the at least one opening (62) and/or the at least one channel.

2. The packaging device according to claim 1, wherein the defining element (45) comprises at least one spacer element (64), the at least one spacer element (64) facing the main abutment portion (61) and protruding towards the main abutment portion (61);

wherein the spacing element (64) defines and/or comprises and/or carries the primary engagement portion (60).

3. The packaging device according to claim 2, wherein the spacer element (64) has an arcuate profile.

4. A packaging unit according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the defining element (45) comprises a plurality of spacer elements (64), the plurality of spacer elements (64) surrounding the channel (57) and being arranged such that at least one opening (62) is formed.

5. A packaging unit according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the channel (57) is coaxial with the gas supply tube (49) and/or the filling tube (31).

6. A packaging unit according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the main engagement portion (60) and/or the main abutment portion (61) comprises one or more grooves defining one or more channels.

7. A packaging unit according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the main abutment portion (61) and/or the main engagement portion (61) has an annular shape.

8. A packaging unit according to any one of claims 1-3, further comprising a support element (65) having an auxiliary abutment portion (66);

wherein the defining element (45) comprises an auxiliary engagement portion (67), the auxiliary engagement portion (67) being configured to abut against the auxiliary abutment portion (66) when the defining element (45) is in the second position.

9. Packaging unit according to claim 8, wherein the support element (65) is connected to the filling tube (31) and/or the gas supply tube (49).

10. A packaging unit according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the defining element (45) is arranged within the isolation chamber (10).

11. A packaging arrangement according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the tube forming and sealing device (13) comprises a tube forming unit (22), the tube forming unit (22) being configured to gradually fold the web of packaging material (4) into the tube (3) by overlapping side edges of the web of packaging material (4) with each other to form a longitudinal sealing portion (23);

wherein the sealing portion (23) extends in a downstream direction along the tube advancing path (Q) from an initial height;

wherein the limiting element (45) is arranged in the region of the initial height and/or downstream of the initial height along the tube advancing path (Q).

12. A packaging unit according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the defining element (45) is designed to provide, in use, at least one fluid channel (71), the at least one fluid channel (71) being defined by a peripheral portion of the defining element (45) and an inner surface of the tube (3) being advanced, in use, to fluidly connect the second space (47) and the first space (46) and to allow a leakage flow of sterilizing gas, in use, from the second space (47) into the first space (46).

13. A packaging unit according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the defining element (45) is adapted to move in a direction perpendicular to the tube (3) advanced in use.

14. A packaging unit according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein at least part of the gas supply tube (49) and at least part of the filling tube (30) are parallel to each other.