DE102020129458A1 - Method and apparatus for producing a coating - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a folding device (10) for producing a cover such as a film cover with a telescopic fold, comprising at least one first folding aid (12) into which and / or over which one end of a tube made of a flexible material can be repeatedly inserted in sections to produce the fold can be slipped over. So that the device is easy to use and, in particular, enables appliqués to be applied to the cover in any desired fold and to enable folding back, it is provided that the folding device has a fixing means (14) by means of which the end of the tube or at least one fold on the at least a folding aid can be fixed.

Description

The invention relates to a method for producing a cover such as a film cover with a telescopic plug-in fold according to the preamble of claims 1 to 3, a method for attaching an application to a layer of a cover for protecting a surgical instrument, in particular a surgical robot arm according to the preamble of claim 4 and a device for carrying out the method according to the preamble of claim 11.

A method, a device and a film coating of the type mentioned are from EP 0 371 509 A1 known. In the known method, the film cover is pulled onto a particularly cylindrical mandrel or inserted into a tube or a corresponding body with the end having the insertion opening first, the outside diameter of the mandrel or tube being the inside diameter of the film cover and its length at least half the length of the film coating.

Then the end with the exit opening opposite the insertion opening is turned outwards while being turned inside out. Furthermore, the outlet opening is shifted coaxially until it is approximately in the area of the insertion opening. For this purpose, another tube with an enlarged diameter is used over the first tube or the mandrel while turning it over this tube.

The newly formed free opening opposite the insertion opening is then turned over, turned inside out and the free opening is shifted coaxially until it is approximately in the area of the insertion opening.

The above process steps are repeated, if necessary, a number of times.

The known method can only be used if the film cover in the form of a film tube has a predetermined length. In addition, the mandrel must be at least half the length of the film cover. When using a pipe, pipes with different diameters must be used, which is associated with increased effort.

the WO 2009/077136 A1 relates to a film tube cover for medical devices, with a film tube which has an open and a closed end section and which has a sterile and a non-sterile side. It is provided that the film tube cover has an adhesive film on the outside of the closed end section on the non-sterile side, to which the medical device is attached. The application of applications to a film tube having a telescopic plug-in fold is the WO 2009/077136 A1 not disclosed.

Proceeding from this, the present invention is based on the object of providing a method and a device for producing a cover such as a film cover with a telescopic plug-in fold, which is easy to use and in particular enables appliqués to be applied to the cover in any desired fold and to enable it to be folded back.

According to the invention, the object is achieved, inter alia, by a method having the features of claim 1, 2, 3 or 4.

A first preferred method relates to the production of a cover such as a film cover with a telescopic fold, wherein one end of a tube is placed against a first folding aid and wherein the fold is produced by repeatedly folding the tube in sections against the first folding aid.

1. a) Anlegen des Endes des Schlauchs mit einer Lage gegen eine Ober- oder Unterseite der zumindest einen Falthilfe;
2. b) Fixieren der Lage an der zumindest einen Falthilfe;
3. c) Einfalten der unteren bzw. oberen Lage des Schlauchs gegen einen Rand der Falthilfe zur Bildung einer ersten oder weiteren Faltung;
4. d) Abziehen der ersten oder weiteren Faltung von der zumindest einen Falthilfe und
5. e) gegebenenfalls mehrfaches Wiederholen der vorherigen Verfahrensschritte.

The procedure has the following procedural steps:

1. a) placing the end of the hose with a layer against an upper or lower side of the at least one folding aid;
2. b) fixing the position on the at least one folding aid;
3. c) folding in the lower or upper layer of the hose against an edge of the folding aid to form a first or further fold;
4. d) removing the first or further fold from the at least one folding aid and
5. e) if necessary, multiple repetition of the previous process steps.

A first alternative embodiment relates to a method for the production of a cover with a telescopic fold, wherein one end of a tube is inserted into a first folding aid and wherein the fold is produced by repeatedly slipping the tube over the first folding aid and optionally a second folding aid.

1. a) relatives Verfahren der ersten und/oder zweiten Falthilfe in eine geöffnete Stellung, in der das Ende des Schlauchs zwischen die erste und zweite Falthilfe eingelegt wird;
2. b) Fixieren des Endes des Schlauchs oder einer ersten bzw. weiteren Faltung zwischen den Falthilfen durch relatives Verfahren zumindest einer der Falthilfen in eine geschlossene Stellung;
3. c) koaxiales Überstreifen des Schlauchs über zumindest eine der Falthilfen zur Bildung der ersten bzw. weiteren Faltung;
4. d) relatives Verfahren der ersten und/oder Falthilfe in die geöffnete Stellung und Abziehen der ersten bzw. weiteren Faltung von der ersten und/oder zweiten Falthilfe;
5. e) Einlegen der ersten Faltung bzw. weiteren Faltung zwischen die Falthilfen in geöffneter Stellung und
6. f) gegebenenfalls mehrmaliges Wiederholen der vorgenannten Verfahrensschritte b) bis e).

The second embodiment of a method according to the invention comprises the following method steps:

1. a) relative movement of the first and / or second folding aid into an open position in which the end of the hose is inserted between the first and second folding aid;
2. b) fixing the end of the tube or a first or further fold between the folding aids by relative movement of at least one of the folding aids in a closed position;
3. c) coaxially slipping the tube over at least one of the folding aids to form the first or further fold;
4. d) relative movement of the first and / or folding aid into the open position and removal of the first or further fold from the first and / or second folding aid;
5. e) Insertion of the first fold or further fold between the folding aids in the open position and
6. f) if necessary, repeating the aforementioned process steps b) to e) several times.

An alternative method relates to the production of a cover with a telescopic fold, one end of a tube being pulled onto a first folding aid and the folding being produced by repeatedly inserting the tube into the first folding aid and optionally a second folding aid.

1. a) relatives Verfahren der ersten und/oder zweiten Falthilfe in eine erste Stellung, in der das Ende des Schlauchs über die erste und zweite Falthilfe übergestreift wird;
2. b) Fixieren des Endes des Schlauchs oder einer ersten bzw. weiteren Faltung durch relatives Verfahren der ersten und/oder zweiten Falthilfe in eine zweite Stellung;
3. c) koaxiales Einlegen bzw. Einfalten des Schlauchs in einen von den Falthilfen aufgespannten Raum zur Bildung der ersten oder weiteren Faltung;
4. d) relatives Verfahren der ersten und/oder zweiten Falthilfe in die erste Stellung und Abziehen der ersten bzw. weiteren Faltung von der ersten und/oder zweiten Falthilfe;
5. e) koaxiales Überziehen der ersten bzw. weiteren Faltung über die erste und/oder zweite Falthilfe und
6. f) gegebenenfalls mehrmaliges Wiederholen der Verfahrensschritte b) bis e).

According to the invention, the alternative method comprises the following method steps:

1. a) relative movement of the first and / or second folding aid into a first position in which the end of the hose is slipped over the first and second folding aid;
2. b) fixing the end of the tube or a first or further fold by relative movement of the first and / or second folding aid in a second position;
3. c) coaxial insertion or folding of the hose into a space spanned by the folding aids to form the first or further fold;
4. d) relative movement of the first and / or second folding aid into the first position and removal of the first or further fold from the first and / or second folding aid;
5. e) coaxially pulling the first or further fold over the first and / or second folding aid and
6. f) if necessary, repeating method steps b) to e) several times.

The above methods are distinguished from the prior art in that the folding of endless tubes is made possible. The production of the individual folds is also simplified by the folding aids that can be moved relative to one another, since the folds can be fixed when slipped over and released for removal.

With the third alternative, only one folding aid is necessary in order to be able to carry out a folding.

A particularly preferred inventive method relates to the application of at least one application to a cover having a telescopic fold.

1. a) Aufschieben einer Faltung oder mehrerer Faltungen einer ersten Lage des Überzugs auf eine erste Falthilfe;
2. b) Fixieren der Faltung oder der Faltungen der ersten Lage mit einer zweiten Falthilfe;
3. c) Entfalten des Überzugs bis zu der fixierten Faltung oder den fixierten Faltungen;
4. d) Anbringen der zumindest einen Applikation an oder in die entfaltete Lage des Überzugs;
5. e) Rückfalten der ersten und zweiten Lage durch Einfalten der ersten Lage gegen einen Rand der ersten Falthilfe zur Bildung einer weiteren Faltung;
6. f) Öffnen der Fixierung und Abziehen der Faltungen von der ersten Falthilfe;
7. g) Aufschieben der Faltungen auf die erste Falthilfe und Fixieren der Faltungen;
8. h) Wiederholen der Verfahrensschritte e) bis g) bis der Schlauch rückgefaltet ist.

The method according to the invention comprises the following method steps:

1. a) sliding one or more folds of a first layer of the cover onto a first folding aid;
2. b) fixing the fold or folds of the first layer with a second folding aid;
3. c) unfolding the cover to the fixed fold or folds;
4. d) applying the at least one application to or in the unfolded position of the cover;
5. e) folding back the first and second layers by folding the first layer against an edge of the first folding aid to form a further fold;
6. f) opening the fixation and pulling the folds off the first folding aid;
7. g) sliding the folds onto the first folding aid and fixing the folds;
8. h) Repeat process steps e) to g) until the tube is folded back.

The process enables the subsequent application of applications in the form of instrument holders, feedthroughs, stickers, etc. to an already folded cover in a particularly simple and fast way. According to the state of the art, the cover has to be unfolded by hand and folded back by hand, which on the one hand is associated with increased expenditure of time and on the other hand with the risk of damage.

To further simplify the method described above, it is provided that air is blown into the cover or the tube during the folding.

It is also advantageous that the tube is unrolled from an endless roll during the folding. As a result, endless tubes can be used.

Preferably, at least one of the folding aids for opening and closing is mechanical, pneumatic, electrical, magnetic and / or hydraulic driven and can be held in any position.

Furthermore, it is provided according to a preferred embodiment that the folds are carried out manually or automatically by means of at least one gripper or driver. The at least one gripper or driver can grip a layer of the hose and introduce it into the space spanned by the folding aids. Gripping can preferably take place by clamping or by negative pressure in the form of a suction gripper.

The method step of fixing is particularly preferably selected from the group of clamping by relative movement of the fixing aids, clamping by a separate external clamping device or tightening of the layer by negative pressure on at least one of the fixing aids.

The invention also relates to a folding device for producing a cover with a telescopic fold, comprising at least one first folding aid into which and / or over which one end of a tube for producing the fold can be repeatedly inserted or slipped over in sections.

According to the invention it is provided that the folding device has a fixing means by means of which the end of the hose or at least one fold on the at least one folding aid can be fixed.

The fixing means is particularly preferably a second folding aid, wherein the first and second folding aid can be moved relative to one another for fixing the hose.

The end of the tube or at least one fold can preferably be fixed between the folding aids or on one of the folding aids, the tube being able to be slipped over the folding aids to produce the fold by a relative movement between the folding aids and the hose against a stop of at least one of the folding aids .

In an alternative embodiment, the end of the hose can be slipped over the first and / or second folding element, the folding aids being designed to be spreadable towards one another to open the end, the hose being moved by a relative movement between the folding aids and the hose against at least one stop of the first or second Folding aid can be inserted into a space spanned by the folding aid.

The device is structurally simple and can be easily operated by an operator without the risk of damaging the hose.

The folding aids are preferably movable relative to one another in such a way that the end of the tube or at least a first fold between the folding aids can be fixed or the end of the tube or at least a first fold can be spread by the folding aids. Slipping of the hose or the folds on the folding aids is prevented, so that precise and safe folding is possible

Another preferred embodiment is characterized in that at least one of the folding aids has suction means as the fixing means. The suction means are preferably designed as a mouth opening in a surface of the at least one folding aid. The orifices can be connected to a vacuum source via one or more channels. The mouth openings can be arranged at any position on the lower and upper side of the folding aids, distributed over the surface.

The first or second folding aid is coupled to an output, which is preferably mechanically, electrically, magnetically, pneumatically and / or hydraulically driven and can be locked in any position.

Depending on the application and shape of the tube, the at least one first and / or second folding aid can be a body spanning a flat or essentially cylindrical surface, with a width or a diameter that essentially corresponds to a width or a diameter of the tube.

The at least one first or second folding aid is preferably a rectangular, flat plate in which recesses are preferably formed.

Alternatively, the at least one first or second folding aid can be U-shaped, comprising two legs, each with an outer edge, the outer edges running parallel to one another and defining the width BK, and where a length of the legs and / or the distance between the Leg is adjustable to each other.

The surface of the folding aids can be smooth, structured and / or coated in order to improve the adhesive strength of the films on the folding aids.

At least one of the folding aids can preferably also have a telescopic working section which can be pulled out together with a fold. The work section can serve as a work surface for attaching the application.

The second folding aid is preferably designed as a fixing element, by means of which the end of the hose or at least one of the folds can be fixed against the first folding aid.

The legs preferably extend from a cross member, the legs being arranged in the cross member so as to be displaceable along a longitudinal axis thereof. This allows the folding aid to be adapted to different widths of film tubes.

Furthermore, it is provided according to the invention that the first and / or second folding element are arranged to be movable along a support element, at least one of the folding aids being coupled to a drive which is preferably mechanically, electrically, magnetically, pneumatically and / or hydraulically driven and can be locked in any position is.

To further simplify the folding process, in particular to expand the tube, it is provided that the folding device has a means for generating an air flow, an air flow opening being oriented in such a way as to introduce air into the ends of the tube that are fixed or stretched between the folding elements.

The hose comprises a flexible material which is selected from the group consisting of plastic film, paper, Tyvec (registered trademark), non-woven fabric, woven fabric. The tube is preferably a film tube.

Furthermore, the folding aids can have markings by means of which different folding depths are defined. The markings can be in the form of an imprint on the top of the folding aids in the form of a scale, in the form of haptic markings such as indentations, elevations and in the form of stops and as active optical markings in the form of light strips, laser markings on an upper or lower side of the first and / or a second folding aid.

In addition, signal transmitters in the form of photo cells, limit switches or the like can be provided, which generate a signal in the form of an acoustic, optical or haptic signal when a predetermined folding depth is reached.

In order to avoid that individual folds or the strips of the film tube are damaged when fixing between the folding aids, it is provided that one or more spacer elements are arranged on an underside of the upper folding aid, so that when the folding aids are moved together, a fixation takes place without the folding or force is applied to a fold.

The spacer elements can be formed from a flexible material such as silicone, e.g. B. in the form of point or strip-shaped elements, so that a fixing force is only transferred to the lower folding aid at defined points. The spacer elements also act as spacers between the folding aids in order to protect the film webs of the film tube.

Depending on the thickness of the film web, the spacer elements can be made from a harder material such as hard plastic. There is also the possibility that the spacer elements have a point in order to fix the film web of the film tube in a form-fitting manner.

As a further alternative embodiment, it is proposed that spacing elements corresponding to one another in the form of elevations and depressions are arranged in the opposing surfaces of the first and second folding aid. B. elevations and in the surface of the upper folding aid z. B. recesses can be formed which correspond to each other.

In a further preferred embodiment it is provided that the device comprises at least one third folding aid. This enables the folding process to be fully automated. While the partially folded tube is still fixed between the first and second folding aid, the third folding aid moves in the axial direction into the folded tube. As soon as the third folding aid has moved into the tube parallel to the first and second folding aid, the fixation can be released and the first folding aid can be pulled out of the fold in the axial direction. The fold can then be fixed between the third and second folding aid.

After a further fold around the third folding aid has been carried out, the first folding aid can be retracted again in the axial direction into the opening of the tube, while the third folding aid is pulled out of the fold in the axial direction. The process can be repeated successively without the hose or the hose fold having to be pulled off the folding aids by hand.

Further details, advantages and features of the invention emerge not only from the claims, the features to be taken from these - individually and / or in combination - but also from the following description of preferred exemplary embodiments to be taken from the drawings and their explanations.

• 1: eine schematische Darstellung einer ersten Ausführungsform einer Faltvorrichtung,
• 2a bis 2d: Verfahrensschritte zur Herstellung einer Faltung mit der Vorrichtung gem. 1,
• 3a bis 3b: Verfahrensschritte zum Ent- und Rückfalten eines Folienüberzugs zum Anbringen einer Applikation;
• 4: eine schematische Darstellung einer zweiten Ausführungsform einer Faltvorrichtung zur Herstellung eines Folienüberzugs mit teleskopartiger Steckfaltung,
• 5a bis 5d: Verfahrensschritte zur Herstellung einer Faltung mit der Vorrichtung gem. 4,
• 6: eine schematische Darstellung einer dritten Ausführungsform einer Faltvorrichtung,
• 7a bis 7d: Verfahrensschritte zur Herstellung einer Faltung mit der Vorrichtung gem. 6,
• 8: eine schematische Darstellung einer vierten Ausführungsform einer Faltvorrichtung,
• 9a bis 9f: verschiedene Ausführungsformen von Falthilfen,
• 10a: eine Seitenansicht der Falthilfen der Faltvorrichtung gemäß 1 mit Distanzelementen,
• 10b: eine Vorderansicht der Falthilfen gemäß 10a,
• 11a: eine Seitenansicht der Faltenhilfen der Faltvorrichtung gemäß 4 mit Distanzelementen,
• 11b: eine Vorderansicht der Falthilfen gemäß 10a,
• 12: eine Seitenansicht einer Falthilfe mit verschiedenen Ausführungsformen von Distanzelementen,
• 13: eine Seitenansicht einer Falthilfe mit Schaumstoffbezug als Distanzelement,
• 14: eine Draufsicht einer Falthilfe der Faltvorrichtung gemäß 1 mit einer Vielzahl von Distanzelementen,
• 15: eine Seitenansicht von Falthilfen mit Distanzelementen sowie Aussparungen für Applikationen,
• 16: eine Draufsicht auf eine fünften Ausführungsform einer Faltvorrichtung,
• 17: eine Seitenansicht der Faltvorrichtung gemäß 16,
• 18a - 18c: Verfahrensschritte zur Herstellung einer Faltung mit der Vorrichtung gemäß 16 und 17,
• 19: eine Vorderansicht der Faltvorrichtung gemäß 4 mit Saugelementen zum Erfassen des Folienschlauchs und
• 20a - 20c: eine sechste Ausführungsform einer Faltvorrichtung.

Show it:

• 1 : a schematic representation of a first embodiment of a folding device,
• 2a until 2d : Process steps for producing a fold with the device according to. 1 ,
• 3a until 3b : Process steps for unfolding and folding back a film cover for applying an application;
• 4th : a schematic representation of a second embodiment of a folding device for producing a film cover with telescopic plug-in fold,
• 5a until 5d : Process steps for producing a fold with the device according to. 4th ,
• 6th : a schematic representation of a third embodiment of a folding device,
• 7a until 7d : Process steps for producing a fold with the device according to. 6th ,
• 8th : a schematic representation of a fourth embodiment of a folding device,
• 9a until 9f : different designs of folding aids,
• 10a : a side view of the folding aids of the folding device according to FIG 1 with spacer elements,
• 10b : a front view of the folding aids according to FIG 10a ,
• 11a : a side view of the folding aids of the folding device according to FIG 4th with spacer elements,
• 11b : a front view of the folding aids according to FIG 10a ,
• 12th : a side view of a folding aid with different embodiments of spacer elements,
• 13th : a side view of a folding aid with a foam cover as a spacer element,
• 14th : a plan view of a folding aid of the folding device according to FIG 1 with a variety of spacer elements,
• 15th : a side view of folding aids with spacer elements and recesses for applications,
• 16 : a plan view of a fifth embodiment of a folding device,
• 17th : a side view of the folding device according to FIG 16 ,
• 18a - 18c : Method steps for producing a fold with the device according to FIG 16 and 17th ,
• 19th : a front view of the folding device according to FIG 4th with suction elements for gripping the film tube and
• 20a - 20c : a sixth embodiment of a folding device.

1 shows purely schematically an inventive first embodiment of a folding device 10 , comprising a first folding aid 12th and a second folding aid 14th . The first folding aid 12th is fork-shaped, with two legs 16 , 18th that run parallel to each other and each have an outer edge 20th , 22nd have which run parallel or substantially parallel and span a width W which corresponds to a width of the tubular film. The thigh 16 , 18th go from a cross member 24 from that on a vertical bracket 26th is attached. The thigh 16 , 18th can preferably be in the direction of the arrows 28 , 30th along the cross member 24 to a desired width W, which corresponds to the width of a tubular film to be folded.

The second folding aid 14th is designed as a fixing element and has a fork-shaped shape. The second folding aid 14th includes thighs 32 , 34 that by a rail 36 go out along the bracket 26th in the vertical direction along the arrow 38 via a drive 40 is arranged to be movable. The thigh 32 , 34 are compared to the thighs 16 , 18th the folding aid 12th shorter trained.

A method for producing a telescopic plug-in fold using the folding device 10 according to 1 is based on the 2a until 2d explained. One end of the hose 42 a film tube 44 is made by means of the second folding aid designed as a fixing element 14th against the first folding aid 12th fixed like this in 2a is shown. For expanding the film tube 44 using compressed air is a compressed air pump 46 intended. The compressed air supplied is preferably sterile-filtered to ensure sterility.

Then one is attached to the first folding aid 12th adjacent location 48 of the film tube 44 in the direction of the arrow 89 about a stop 50 the first folding aid 12th knocked down. At the same time there is an overhead position 52 over the end of the hose 42 so that a first convolution is carried out, as shown in 2 B is shown.

After the first fold has been made, the fixing element 14th in the direction of the arrow 38 move to the end of the hose 42 to solve.

2c shows how the folded end between the fixing element 14th and the first folding aid 12th is clamped, the fixing element 14th in the direction of the arrow 38 is proceeded. Then the one on the folding aid 12th adjacent location 48 around the stop 50 turned over and made another fold, as shown in 2d is shown. The procedural steps 2a and 2 B are repeated successively until the desired number of folds is made.

In addition to the production of film covers according to the invention with telescopic folding, the device can according to FIG. 1 can be used for a proprietary inventive method that relates to the application of appliqués to any position or fold of an unfolded or folded film cover.

3a shows a folded film cover in the form of a hose package in the delivery state in a side view. The hose package is z. B. with the third layer L3 the overhead position 52 on the thigh 18th the folding aid 12th postponed by a relative movement so that the layers L1 , L2 of the hose package between the leg 34 of the fixing element 14th and the thigh 18th are arranged. Then the fixing element 14th in the direction of the arrow 38 proceed so that the layers L1 , L2 are fixed. The lower folding aid 12th lies under the location L2 that should no longer be pulled out. With the fixing element 14th become the locations L1 , L2 that is above the folding aid 14th lying, fixed. The fixation can be done manually, mechanically, electrically, hydraulically, magnetically and / or pneumatically in any position.

In 3b the process step is shown, after which the unfixed layers L3 , L4 by pulling one end of the hose 54 in the direction of the arrow 56 be pulled out.

It can be pulled out over several folds, with the clamped layers L1 , L2 in the bundle between the closed forks 14th , 18th remain.

The in 3b shown pulled-out hose section 58 can now be edited, e.g. B. by applying an application 60 , e.g. B. a implementation, an instrument holder, a sticker and others

The desired layers are pulled out, with the counter layers of the fixed layers remaining in the bundle and sagging downwards in the bundle in the vertical direction. The applications are attached to the drawn-out film.

The refolding is done by making the first fold, in this case the location L3 under the thigh 18th the folding aid 12th according to arrow 62 is folded. The lower layer is folded back at the same time, as shown in 3c is shown. The folding can be carried out manually or by means of an insertion aid in the form of a driver, a plate, a fork or the like. The folding aids are fork-shaped in order to offer sufficient space for the application. The folding aids can also have cutouts which are adapted to the applications.

Then the folding aids 14th , 12th in the direction of the arrow 38 opened so the layers L1 , L2 , L3 can be removed from the device. The location L3 the folded back position 52 is checked from the previously clamped free side and corrected if necessary.

According to 3d the bundle is now back on the lower fork 12th pushed. The lower fork is now located below the film layer that was folded back in the last process step L3 of the upper bundle layers L1 , L2 , L3 . The bundle of layers L1 , L2 , L3 will be with the top fork 14th against the lower fork 12th fixed. The lower bundle layers sag downwards.

The bundle is clamped and the next layer of film is then folded back around the lower fork 12th around in the direction of the arrow 64 according to the procedural steps acc. 3a until 3c . The process is repeated until the remaining tube is folded in. The clamp is opened, the bundle is removed, corrected and then again on the lower fork for the next refolding 12th pushed so that the resulting folding back can take place around the fork below.

Through the recesses in the folding aids 12th , 14th , especially the fork-shaped design of the folding aids 12th , 14th it is ensured that the non-destructive folding in of film tubes with attached applications is possible; because the film tube is only fixed at the edge and the applications can spread freely in the space formed by the recess without damaging the position.

On the folding aids 12th , 14th Markings can be attached to define the depth of the fold.

4th show purely schematically an inventive second embodiment of a folding device 66 for folding a film tube 68 for the production of a film cover with a telescopic plug-in fold. The device 66 comprises in the illustrated embodiment a first folding aid 70 and a second folding aid 72 . The folding aids 70 , 72 are each designed in the form of a plate spanning a plane. The plates have a width B which essentially corresponds to a width of the film tube in a flat state. The plates 70 , 72 are parallel to each other on a bracket 74 arranged, with at least one of the plates 70 , 72 in the vertical direction along the bracket 74 is arranged movably so that the plates 70 , 72 can be moved into an open and a closed position.

The folding aids 70 , 72 in the form of plates each have edge sides 78 , 80 respectively. 82 , 84 which run parallel to one another at a distance that is essentially a width BF of the folded film tube 68 is equivalent to. Furthermore, the edge sides 78 , 80 , 82 , 84 a length which corresponds essentially to a maximum length of a fold.

In the illustrated embodiment, an open end is used 86 of the film tube 68 between the opened folding aids 70 , 72 inserted. To open the end 86 is a compressed air reservoir 88 provided by means of the compressed air via a line 90 towards an opening 92 of the end 86 can be introduced. Alternatively, there is also the possibility that the opening 92 of the film tube 68 is expanded manually.

The method for producing the film cover with telescopic plug-in fold is based on 5a until 5d explained.

According to 5a will be the end 86 of the film tube 68 between the folding aids 70 , 72 inserted. Then the compressed air reservoir 88 Compressed air into the folding hose 68 introduced to expand this. Then the second folding aid 72 against the first folding aid 70 proceed so that the end 86 is fixed. Then the layers of the film tube 68 in the direction of the arrows 94 , 96 coaxial around front stops 98 , 100 the folding aids 70 , 72 turned over or pulled over to produce a fold.

5b shows the process step of the first folding, wherein the film tube 68 once via the folding aids 70 , 72 is slipped over. The end of the hose 86 is between the folding aids 70 , 72 fixed.

After making the first fold, the second folding aid is made 72 in the direction of the arrow 76 opened so that the folding out of the folding device 66 can be taken.

5c shows a further step, with the section with the first folding again between the folding aids 70 , 72 inserted and then in the folding aid 72 in the direction of the arrow 76 against the folding aid 70 is braced. Then the film tube is again around the stops 98 , 100 upside down.

5d shows the film tube with a total of three folds.

The procedural steps 5a until 5d can be repeated successively until the desired number of folds is reached.

6th shows the device 66 according to 1 for performing an alternative folding technique. In contrast to the procedure according to 5 will come to an end 102 a film tube 104 not between the folding aids 70 , 72 but after opening over the folding aids 70 , 72 put inside. Then the folding aids 70 , 72 or at least one of the folding aids 70 , 72 in the direction of the arrow 76 proceed so that the film tube 104 is spread.

The method of making the fold is according to 7a until 7d explained.

7a shows the end of the hose in side view 102 , which is about the folding aids 70 , 72 is slipped over. The folding aids are in this state 70 , 72 moved apart so that the hose end 102 is spread.

In the next process step, which is in 7b is shown, the position of the film tube 104 in the direction of the arrows 105 between the folding aids 70 , 72 folded inwards. After the layer has been folded in, at least one of the folding aids becomes 70 , 72 in the direction of the arrow 76 proceed so that the first folding of the folding aids 70 , 72 can be deducted.

In the next process step, which is in 7c is shown, the folded end of the hose is again over the folding aids 70 , 72 slipped over and at least one folding aid in the direction of the arrow 76 moved outwards to the end of the hose 102 to fix.

In 7d is shown like the free end of the hose 102 inwards between the folding aids 70 , 72 is folded. The process is repeated successively until the desired number of folds is reached.

8th shows, purely schematically, a fourth embodiment of a folding device 106 which is essentially the folding device 10 according to 1 corresponds, with the difference that an upper folding aid 108 in their design with the lower folding aid 12th corresponds. The folding aid 108 is also fork-shaped, with legs 110 , 112 that in Substantially have a length that corresponds to the legs 16 , 18th the folding aid 12th is equivalent to.

9a until 9f shows a variety of alternative embodiments of folding aids. 9a shows folding aids in the form of plates 70 , 72 like this one in the device 66 after 4th respectively. 6th be used.

While the panels 70 , 72 according to 9a are arranged horizontally, these can also be used as in 9b shown, be arranged in a vertical orientation.

9c shows an embodiment of folding aids 114 , 116 in the form of curved plates which together form a cylinder shape and of which at least one can be moved in the vertical direction in order to allow a hose end drawn thereon to be braced.

9d shows folding aids 118 , 120 , 122 , 124 , 126 , 128 , which are arranged in a hexagonal cross-section, each of which can be arranged displaceably in the radial direction in order to enable a clamping function.

According to 9e shows an embodiment also a fork-shaped folding aid 130 , being thigh 132 , 134 are in the form of tubular elements.

9f shows a folding aid 136 , which is also fork-shaped, with the legs 138 , 140 are designed in the form of brackets.

In summary, it should be noted that the devices according to the invention 10 , 66 , 106 has at least one folding aid and at least one fixing element. The folding aids can span a flat or cylindrical surface, depending on the application. Possible designs are e.g. B. flat or curved plates, U-shaped bracket with legs also in the form of a wire mesh. The folding aids can have recesses in a rectangular, semicircular, round or polygonal shape.

Furthermore, the folding aid and the fixing element are arranged to be movable relative to one another, so that the hose end and / or the folds between the fixing element and the folding aid can be fixed. In addition, a tube end that is slipped over the folding aid can be widened.

The device 10 , 66 , 106 can be designed so that the hose end can be pushed mechanically or automatically onto or between the folding aids. The hose end can also be sucked in by at least one gripper by means of negative pressure and drawn in between the folding aids. Alternatively, there is also the possibility that the folding aids are automatically slipped or retracted into or over the end of the hose.

The drive 40 the actuation of the fixing element can be designed mechanically, electrically, pneumatically, magnetically, hydraulically and / or manually. The folding aids can be made of plastic, metal and / or glass or a composite material. For better adhesion, the surface of the folding aid can be structured and / or coated. Channels that are connected to a vacuum source can also be introduced into the folding aids. The channels can end with a mouth opening in a surface of the folding aids and generate a negative pressure that fixes the film. The negative pressure can support the fixing of the foils or replace the clamping with second folding aids.

A particularly preferred embodiment is characterized in that the device 10 , 66 , 106 is mobile. The device can also 10 , 66 , 106 be designed to be automated in that the folding aids are automatically retracted into the hose end.

The tube to be folded can be made of a flexible material such as preferably plastic film, paper, Tyvec, non-woven fabric, woven fabric, e.g. B. cotton, be trained.

10a and 10b show a side or front view of folding aids 12th , 14th the folding device 10 according to 1 .

To avoid single folds F1 , F2 , F3 , F4 or the tracks 52 , 48 of the film tube 44 when fixing between the folding aids 12th , 14th damaged, that is provided on a bottom 142 the upper, second folding aid 14th one or more spacer elements 144 , 146 are arranged so that when the folding aids come together 12th , 14th a fixation takes place without the folds F1 - F4 be applied with force.

The spacer elements 144 , 146 can be made of a flexible material such as silicone, for example in the form of point or strip-shaped elements, so that fixation is only possible at defined points on the lower, first folding aid 12th is transmitted. The spacer elements 144 , 146 also act as a kind of spacer between the folding aids 12th , 14th to get the sheeting 44 , 48 of the film tube 52 to protect.

the 11a and 11b each show a side view and a front view of the folding aids 70 , 72 the folding device 66 according to 4th . In this embodiment it is provided that a Folding aid 148 on a bottom 150 the upper folding aid 72 is arranged in a recess 152 in the surface 154 the lower folding aid 70 engages and thus ensures fixation.

12th shows an embodiment wherein a spacer element 156 in a recess 158 on a bottom 160 the upper folding aid 72 is fixed. The spacer element 156 can alternatively also be placed directly on the underside 160 fixed such as B. glued or screwed. Magnetic fixation is also possible, which has the advantage that the spacer elements 156 can be flexibly arranged and adapted to different hose formats and applications.

13th shows a further embodiment of a spacer element 162 in the form of a foam sheet, in particular a cube foam, on the underside 160 the upper folding aid is fixed as it is glued on. Depending on the application, individual cubes can then be broken out or removed from the cube foam at the desired position, namely at the positions at which, for example, applications on the tube to be folded 44 are upset.

14th shows an underside of the folding aid 14th the folding device according to 1 with a variety of spacers 164 . These can be designed, for example, as pins or plungers, which can be moved pneumatically or electrically, so that a structure of the spacer elements 164 can be adapted to different applications.

15th shows a side view of the folding aids 70 , 72 the folding device 66 according to 4th , with in the lower folding aid 70 Recesses 166 , 168 are designed, in which, for example, applications are recorded that have been attached to the folding tube. The recesses 166 , 168 are of spacer elements 170 , 172 surrounded in order to be able to fix the folded tube in the area of the applications. This ensures that the applications are fixed during the folding process.

the 16 and 17th show a fifth embodiment of a folding device 170 each in plan view ( 16 ) and in front view ( 17th ). The folding device 170 includes a first folding aid 172 and a second folding aid 174 that span planes that run parallel or substantially parallel to one another.

16 shows the folding aids 172 , 174 in a plan view, from which it can be seen that the folding aids are each E-shaped or fork-shaped, with legs 176 , 178 , 180 , the edge side over a web 182 are connected to each other. Between the thighs 176 , 178 respectively. 178 , 180 are recesses 184 , 186 trained, extending up to the jetty 182 get lost.

According to an inventive embodiment, the folding device 170 Gripping elements 188 , 190 , 192 , 194 on. The gripping elements 188 -194 each have suction elements 196 , 198 , 200 , 202 on. The gripping elements 188 , 190 are in the vertical direction above the second folding aid 174 and the gripping elements 192 , 194 are in the vertical direction below the first folding aid 172 arranged.

The folding aids 172 , 174 are both individually in the vertical direction according to the arrows 204 , 206 as well as individually in the horizontal direction along the arrow 208 movably arranged. The movements can e.g. B. be carried out by means of a handling device such as a robot or an automatic machine, the folding aids 172 , 174 are each individually movable and controllable in the horizontal and vertical direction.

Also the gripping elements 188-194 with the suction elements 196-202 are arranged to be movable both in the vertical direction and in the horizontal direction. The handling of the gripping elements 188-194 can be handled by a handling device such as a robot or automatically along rails 210 , 212 be executed.

the 18a until 18c show a folding process by means of the folding device 170 . In the illustrated embodiment, the gripping means 188-194 along rails 210 , 212 in the direction of the arrow 214 movably arranged so that they are above or below the folding aids 172 , 174 are movable. It is provided that the gripping means 188-194 be moved in such a way that the suction elements 196-202 in the recordings 184 , 186 between the webs 176 , 178 , 180 to be placed.

18a shows an initial state, with one hose end 216 a hose 218 between the folding aids 172 , 174 inserted and tensioned. The suction elements 196 , 202 are at a distance A in front of a folding edge 220 , 222 the folding aids 172 , 174 arranged, the suction elements 196-202 an upper layer 224 as well as a lower layer 226 of the film tube 218 to grab.

Then the suction elements 196 , 202 along the rails 210 , 212 in the direction of the folding aids 172 , 174 proceed as described in 18b is shown. This creates a first fold. Then the suction elements 196-202 in the direction of the arrows 228 , 230 proceed so that by means of the suction elements 196-202 a fixation of the fold is generated. In a further step, the first folding aid 172 and the second folding aid 174 in the direction of the arrow 232 , 234 in horizontal Direction pulled out from the folded end. In this state, the folding is over the suction elements 196-202 fixed.

In 18c a further process step is shown, wherein the folding elements 172 , 174 in the direction of the arrows 236 , 238 from the outside through the suction elements 196 , 202 fixed folding. The suction elements 196-202 are in the recesses 184-196 recorded. Finally, the folding aids 172 , 174 each in the direction of the arrow 240 respectively. 242 move more vertically, with the folded end of the film tube then back over the folding aids 172 , 174 is fixed. Then the suction elements 196 , 202 released and each in the direction of the arrow 244 , 246 in the starting position according to 18a be moved so that a new fold can begin.

19th shows an embodiment wherein a hose 248 via a first folding aid 250 and a second folding aid 252 is slipped over. In this embodiment, suction means 254 , 256 , 258 , 260 be provided at an angle of 90 ° along the circumference of the hose 248 are arranged.

20a until 20c show a further embodiment of a folding device 262 , being inside a hose 264 a folding tool 266 is arranged by means of which the layers 268 , 270 of the hose 264 via folding aids 272 , 274 be put inside.

20a shows a top view of the folding device 262 . The folding aids 272 , 274 are essentially E-shaped, as already mentioned with reference to 16 has been described, each with open cutouts on the front 276 , 278 .

The folding tool 266 includes according to 2a and 2 B two pairs of expansion elements 280 , 282 as 284 , 286 which are each arranged in a plane. The pairs of expansion elements 280 , 282 ; 284 , 286 are on a holding element 288 attached and are in the direction of the arrow 290 , 292 arranged to be movable to one another. When the spreading elements move apart 280 , 282 ; 284 , 286 the film tube is spread, as shown in 20c is shown.

The holding element 288 is with a sliding element 294 connected by means of which the folding device in the direction of the arrow 296 on the one hand in the recesses 276 , 278 the folding aids 272 , 274 for slipping over the hose 268 and on the other hand can be moved back into an initial position. So that the foil webs are not damaged by the spreading elements when they are spread and turned over, ends of the spreading elements are rounded. Rollers (not shown) can also be provided at the ends, which further simplifies slipping the film webs over the folding aids.

The device works as follows. First there will be an end 298 of the hose 264 between the folding aids 272 , 274 fixed. Then the folding tool 266 over an open end 300 of the hose 268 introduced into these, as in 20b is shown. Then the expansion elements 280 , 282 ; 284 , 286 in the direction of the arrow 290 , 292 proceed in such a way that the hose 268 is spread.

In a following step the folding tool 260 in the direction of the arrow 296 , ie in the direction of the folding aids 272 , 274 proceed so that the film webs 268 , 270 via the folding aids 272 , 274 be put inside. The end position of the folding tool 266 is in 20c shown.

Then the spreading elements 280 , 282 ; 284 , 286 move towards each other in such a way that the folding is caused by the spreading elements 280 , 282 ; 284 , 286 is fixed. The folding aids 272 , 274 can then go in the direction of the arrow 302 can be moved out of the fold or pulled out.

Then the folding aids 272 , 274 extended, placed over the fold and pulled together again to fix the fold. Then the fixation by the expansion element 280 , 282 ; 284 , 286 be released and the folding tool 266 can be in the direction of the arrow 304 can be pulled out of the fold again so that a new folding process can begin.

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent literature cited

• EP 0371509 A1 [0002]
• WO 2009/077136 A1 [0007]

Claims (39)

A method for producing a cover with a telescopic fold, wherein one end of a tube made of a flexible material, such as film tube, is placed on at least one folding aid and wherein the fold is produced by repeatedly folding the tube in sections against the at least one folding aid, characterized in that the method comprises the following method steps: c) placing the end of the tube with a layer against an upper or lower side of the at least one folding aid; d) fixing the position on the at least one folding aid; c) folding in the lower or upper layer of the hose against an edge of the folding aid to form a first or further fold; d) pulling off the first or further fold from the at least one folding aid and e) repeating the previous method steps several times if necessary. A process for preparing a coating having a telescopic folding, with one end as the tubular film is placed in a first folding guide of a tube made of a flexible material, and wherein the convolution is produced by repeatedly portion-wise over strips of the tube over the first folding guide and optionally a second folding guide, characterized that the method comprises the following method steps: a) relative movement of the first and / or second folding aid into an open position in which the end of the hose is inserted between the first and second folding aid; b) fixing the end of the tube or a first or further fold between the folding aids by relative movement of at least one of the folding aids in a closed position; c) coaxially slipping the tube over at least one of the folding aids to form the first or further fold; d) relative movement of the first and / or folding aid into the open position and removal of the first or further fold from the first and / or second folding aid; e) inserting the first fold or further fold between the folding aids in the open position and f) if necessary repeating the aforementioned method steps b) to e) several times. A method for producing a cover with a telescopic fold, wherein one end of a tube made of a flexible material, such as a film tube, is pulled onto a first folding aid and wherein the fold is produced by repeatedly inserting the tube in sections into the first folding aid and, if necessary, a second folding aid, characterized in that the method comprises the following method steps: a) relative movement of the first and / or second folding aid into a first position in which the end of the hose is slipped over the first and second folding aid; b) fixing the end of the tube or a first or further fold by relative movement of the first and / or second folding aid in a second position; c) coaxial insertion or folding of the hose into a space spanned by the folding aids to form the first or further fold; d) relative movement of the first and / or second folding aid into the first position and removal of the first or further fold from the first and / or second folding aid; e) coaxially pulling the first or further fold over the first and / or second folding aid and f) if necessary repeating method steps b) to e) several times. Method for applying at least one application to a cover such as a film cover having a telescopic fold, characterized in that the method comprises the following method steps: i) sliding a fold or several folds of a first layer of the cover onto a first folding aid; j) fixing the fold or folds of the first layer, preferably with a second folding aid; k) unfolding the cover to the fixed fold or folds; 1) applying the at least one application to or in the unfolded position of the cover; m) folding back the first and second layers by folding the first layer against an edge of the first folding aid to form a further fold; n) opening the fixation and pulling the folds off the first folding aid; o) sliding the folds onto the first folding aid and fixing the folds; p) Repeating process steps e) to g) until the cover is folded back. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that air is blown into the cover or the tube during the folding. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tube is unrolled from an endless roll during the folding. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the folding aids for opening and closing mechanically, pneumatically, electrically and / or is hydraulically driven and held in any position. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the folds are carried out manually or automatically by means of a gripper or driver. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the gripper or driver grasps a position of the hose by clamping or by means of negative pressure and introduces this into the space spanned by the folding aids or slips it over the folding aids. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the hose end is inserted between the first and second folding aid and is fixed by applying force to the folding aid, that a first and second layer of the hose is grasped by means of a first and a second gripping element and via the first and second folding aid is slipped over the first and second folding aid by moving the first and second gripping means, that the fold is fixed by applying force to the gripping elements, that the application of force to the first and second folding aid is released and that the first and second folding aid is pulled out of the fold be that the first and second folding aid are moved in such a way that the fold lies between the first and second folding aid and is fixed by the application of force and that the gripping elements are released and to re-grasp the first and second layer of the hose to carry out a again en folding. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fixation is selected from the group of clamping by relative movement of the fixing aids, relative movement of the grippers or drivers, clamping by a separate clamping element or tightening of the layer by negative pressure on at least one of the fixing aids. Folding device (10; 66; 106) for producing a cover, such as a film cover, with telescopic folding, comprising at least one first folding aid (12, 14; 70, 72; 108; 172, 174) into and / or over one end (42; 86; 102; 216) of a hose (44; 68; 104; 218) made of a flexible material for producing the fold can be repeatedly inserted or slipped over in sections, characterized in that the folding device (10; 66; 106) has a fixing means (12, 14; 70, 72; 172, 174) by means of which the end (42; 86; 102; 216) of the hose (44; 68; 104, 218) or at least one fold on the at least one folding aid (12 , 14; 70, 72; 108; 172, 174) can be fixed. Folding device according to Claim 12 , characterized in that the fixing means (14; 72; 108; 172, 174) is a second folding aid, the first and second folding aid (12, 14; 70, 72; 108; 172, 174) being movable relative to one another. Folding device according to Claim 12 or 13th , characterized in that the end (42; 86; 216) of the hose (44; 68, 218) or the at least one fold between the folding aids (12, 14; 70, 72; 172, 174) or on one of the folding aids ( 12, 14; 70, 72; 172, 174), the tube (44; 68; 218) being fixed by a relative movement between the folding aids (12, 14; 70, 72; 172, 174) and the tube (44; 68; 216) against a stop (50; 220, 222) of at least one of the folding aids (12, 14; 70, 72; 172, 174) over the folding aids (12, 14; 70, 72; 172, 174) for producing the Can be folded over. Folding device according to Claim 12 , characterized in that the end (102) of the hose (104) can be slipped over the first and / or second folding aid (70, 72), the folding aids (70, 72) being designed to be spreadable in order to open the end (102), and wherein the tube (104) by a relative movement between the folding aids (70, 72) and the tube (104) against at least one stop (98, 100) of the first or second folding aid (70, 72) in a space spanned by the folding aids is pluggable. Folding device according to at least one of the Claims 12 until 15th , characterized in that the folding aids (12, 14; 70, 72; 172, 174) can be moved relative to one another in such a way that the end (42; 86; 216) of the hose (44; 68; 218) or at least a first fold can be fixed between the folding aids or that the end (42; 86) of the tube (44; 68) or at least a first fold can be fixed by spreading the folding aids (70, 72). Folding device according to at least one of the Claims 12 until 16 , characterized in that the at least one folding aid (12, 14; 70, 72; 108; 172, 174) has vacuum means as the fixing means, which are connected to a vacuum source, the vacuum means as mouth openings in a surface of the at least one folding aid ( 12, 14; 70, 72; 108), by means of which the hose or a layer (48, 52) of the hose can be fixed. Folding device according to at least one of the Claims 12 until 17th , characterized in that the first and / or second folding aid (12, 14; 70, 72; 108; 172, 174) is coupled to a drive (40, 88) which is preferably mechanical, magnetic, electrical, pneumatic and / or is hydraulically driven and held in any position. Folding device according to at least one of the Claims 12 until 18th , characterized in that the at least one first and / or second folding aid (12, 14; 70, 72; 108; 172, 174) is a body spanning a flat or substantially cylindrical surface, with a width B or a diameter that or which essentially corresponds to a width or a diameter of the hose. Folding device according to at least one of the Claims 12 until 19th , characterized in that the at least one first and / or second folding aid (70, 72) is a rectangular, flat plate. Folding device according to at least one of the Claims 12 until 20th , characterized in that the at least one first and / or second folding aid (12, 14; 108) is U-shaped, comprising two legs (16, 18; 32, 34; 110, 112), each with an outer edge ( 20, 22), the outer edges running parallel to one another and defining the width W, and wherein a length of the legs (16, 18; 32, 34; 110, 112) and / or the spacing of the legs (16, 18; 32 , 34; 110, 112) is preferably telescopic to one another. Folding device according to at least one of the Claims 12 until 21 , characterized in that the second folding aid (14; 72; 108; 174) is a fixing element, by means of which the end (42; 86) of the hose (44; 68; 218) or at least one of the folds against the first folding aid (12 , 70; 172) can be fixed. Folding device according to at least one of the Claims 12 until 22nd , characterized in that the legs (16, 18; 32, 34; 110, 112) extend from a cross member (24; 36) and that the legs (16, 18; 32, 34; 110, 112) in the cross member ( 24; 36) are arranged displaceably along a longitudinal axis of this. Folding device according to at least one of the Claims 12 until 23 , characterized in that the first and / or second folding aid (12, 14; 70, 72; 108) are arranged to be movable along a support element (26; 74), at least one of the folding aids (12, 14; 70, 72; 108 ) is coupled to an electric, pneumatic or hydraulic drive (40). Folding device according to at least one of the Claims 12 until 24 , characterized in that the folding device (10) has first and second gripping elements (188, 190; 192, 194) which are each designed to grasp a first and second layer (224, 226) of the tube (218) and that the Gripping elements (188, 190; 192, 194) are arranged to be movable in the longitudinal direction and / or transverse direction relative to the first and second folding aid (172, 174) in order to move the first and second layer (224, 226) of the tube (218) over the Fold aids (172, 174) to be turned over. Folding device according to at least one of the Claims 12 until 25th , characterized in that the first and second folding aid (172, 174) each have mutually corresponding recesses (184, 186) which are open, preferably slot-shaped, in the direction of a stop (220, 222) of the first and second folding aid (172, 174) are trained. Folding device according to at least one of the Claims 12 until 26th , characterized in that the recesses (184, 186) are designed to correspond to grippers (196, 198; 200, 202) of the gripping elements (188, 190; 192, 194). Folding device according to at least one of the Claims 12 until 27 , characterized in that the grippers (196, 198; 200, 202) are designed to be movable against one another in order to fix the layers (224, 226) of the hose (218) in the region of the recesses (184, 186). Folding device according to at least one of the Claims 12 until 28 , characterized in that the folding aids (172, 174) are arranged to be movable in the longitudinal and transverse directions relative to the gripping elements. Folding device according to at least one of the Claims 12 until 29 , characterized in that the grippers are designed as suction grippers. Folding device according to at least one of the Claims 12 until 30th , characterized in that the gripping elements (188, 190, 192, 194) are arranged to be movable along rails (210, 212) relative to the folding aids (172, 174), in particular above or below the folding aids (172, 174) and / or that the suction elements (196, 198; 200, 202) are arranged such that they can be moved relative to one another. Folding device according to at least one of the Claims 12 until 31 , characterized in that the folding device has a means (46; 88) for generating an air flow, an air flow opening being oriented in such a way as to divert the air flow into the end (42; 86; 102) of the film tube (44; 68; 104) to be introduced. Folding device according to at least one of the Claims 12 until 32 , characterized in that the hose is selected from a flexible material from the group consisting of plastic film, paper, Tyvec (registered trademark), non-woven fabric, woven fabric. Folding device according to at least one of the Claims 12 until 33 , characterized in that the first or second folding aid (12, 14; 70, 72; 108) has a marking by means of which different folding depths are defined. Folding device according to at least one of the Claims 12 until 34 , characterized in that the marking is applied in the form of a scale to a surface of the first or second folding aid and / or that the marking is designed as a haptic marking in the form of a lateral notch or surface-side groove and / or that the marking is an optical marking in Form of a light emitting diode, a light strip and / or a laser marking is formed. Folding device according to at least one of the Claims 12 until 35 , characterized in that the first and / or second folding aid (12, 14; 70, 72, 108) has at least one spacer element on a surface facing the second or first folding aid (12, 14; 70, 72; 108), by means of which the end of the hose, the at least one layer of the hose and / or the at least one fold of the hose against the second or first folding aid can be fixed. Folding device according to at least one of the Claims 12 until 36 , characterized in that the at least one spacer element is selected from a material from the group consisting of silicone, soft plastic, hard plastic and / or metal. Folding device according to at least one of the Claims 12 until 37 , characterized in that the at least one spacer element is point-shaped, strip-shaped or wave-shaped and / or that the spacer element is needle-shaped. Folding device according to at least one of the Claims 12 until 38 , characterized in that the first, second and / or third folding aid are guided by means of a handling device such as a robot.

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