DE102021114668A1 - Forming group for a forming device for grouping containers - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a forming group (1, 2) for a forming device (10) for grouping containers (4) moved in a transport direction (T). The forming group (1, 2) comprises at least two similar forming elements (5) arranged adjacent to one another along a main axis (HA). Each forming element (5) has at least one sliding carriage (6) and at least one pressing or formatting part (7) detachably attached to the sliding carriage (6). The invention is characterized in particular by the fact that at least one coupling device (8) is provided for coupling the at least two adjacent forming elements (5), the adjacent forming elements (5) of the forming group (1, 2) being detachable via the coupling device (8) and are articulated together. The coupling device (8) is designed and set up in such a way that the connection of the forming elements (5) via the coupling device (8) can be detached and restored without tools.

Description

The invention relates to a forming group for a forming device for grouping containers and also to a grouping device with a corresponding forming device comprising a forming group of the type mentioned. The invention also relates to a device for producing bundles from container groups.

It is known, for the production of containers, in particular container containers, to put together, in particular to group, a plurality of containers in each case in a defined number into container groups, and to produce a container from one of these container groups in each case.

Devices and methods for grouping containers into such groups of containers and also for producing bundles are sufficiently known from the prior art.

For example, describes the DE 10 2013 109 305 A1 such a device, wherein the device has a container inlet to which the containers are fed in at least one two-lane container stream. Furthermore, the device has a treatment section for each lane of the container flow, on which the containers are initially provided with adhesive applications of an adhesive, preferably a contact adhesive. The device also includes a transport section, which follows the at least two treatment sections in the transport direction of the containers to form an at least two-lane container flow, with at least one forming device being provided on the transport section, which is used to separate the container groups from the container flow and to compress and connect the container groups is formed into a bundle. For this purpose, the forming device has interacting forming groups, which are provided in pairs opposite one another on sides of the transport path that extend in the transport direction and which are designed with corresponding pressing heads, via which the containers provided for grouping are gripped by their lateral surfaces and pressed against one another. In the forming group, the respective pressing elements or format parts carried by a sliding carriage are combined in a predetermined number to form a unit.

In a further development of this is also from the DE 10 2018 109 770 A1 a device of the aforementioned type is known, in which an adaptation of the forming groups to different container sizes or container geometries to be processed is facilitated by the pressing elements or format parts being detachably and interchangeably connected to the sliding carriage, in order to thereby enable a format change for different container types with different container outer diameters to allow.

In the known devices, the forming groups that work together in pairs are each prefabricated with a fixed, predetermined number of pressing elements or format parts and are therefore specially designed for the respective production of packs of a very specific pack formation, namely, for example packs in the container arrangement of 2x2 or 2x3 or 2x4 containers etc. educated. Each pack formation to be produced therefore requires its own specific forming group pairs and must be installed accordingly in the device. Normally, a separate set of forming groups or pairs of forming groups must be kept available for each desired pack formation and exchanged accordingly in the device when the pack formation to be produced is planned to be changed or when changing over to other pack formations. However, this is accompanied by high material and cost expenditure, a high space requirement and long changeover times.

The object of the present invention is to provide a forming group for a forming device that is improved over the prior art, which overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art and which enables the production of packs with variable pack formations in a simple and uncomplicated manner.

This object is achieved by a forming group according to the features of independent patent claim 1 . Furthermore, to achieve the object, a grouping device for grouping containers according to the features of the independent patent claim 15 and a device for producing bundles according to the features of the independent patent claim 16 are specified. The remaining patent claims relate to particularly advantageous developments of the invention.

According to a first aspect, the invention relates to a forming group for a forming device for grouping containers that are moved in a transport direction. The forming group comprises at least two forming elements of the same type arranged adjacent to one another along a main axis, each forming element having at least one sliding carriage and at least one pressing or formatting part detachably fastened to the sliding carriage. According to the invention, the forming group has at least a coupling device for coupling the at least two adjacent forming elements, the adjacent forming elements of the forming group being detachably and articulatedly connected to one another via the coupling device and in that the coupling device is designed and set up in such a way that the connection of the forming elements via the coupling device can be detached and restored without tools.

In the context of the invention, a forming group is to be understood as meaning a composite or assembled unit which is produced from at least two elements of the same type, namely the forming elements. When used as intended, each forming group interacts with another, mirror-symmetrical, opposite forming group of the same type in order to arrange containers into a container group starting from a two-lane container flow and to line them up in pairs for this purpose. The number of forming elements coupled to one another in the forming group therefore determines the number of container pairs arranged one behind the other in a row in the container group and thus specifies the pack formation of the pack to be produced.

Containers within the meaning of the invention are preferably beverage containers. The containers can be, inter alia, bottles, for example made of glass or plastic, in particular made of PET (polyethylene terephthalate), or cans.

In the forming group according to the invention, the forming elements arranged adjacent to one another are coupled or connected to one another in such a way that the coupled or connected state can be released and restored easily, quickly and without the aid of a tool. Because the individual forming elements can be coupled quickly and easily, the number of forming elements coupled to one another in the present forming group can be changed and adjusted quickly and easily. The forming group can be supplemented by one or more additional forming elements in a simple manner, namely by simply coupling it without tools, and thus converted into a larger forming group. Conversely, of course, a larger forming group can also be reduced back to a smaller forming group by simply releasing couplings without tools, by removing individual forming elements.

This entails decisive advantages, since it enables the forming groups to be adapted and adjusted to different pack formations as required or dependent on requirements and application-related, which results in flexible combination options. Only individual forming elements need to be kept in stock for this purpose. This leads both to reduced warehousing and material costs and to savings in time and effort when converting the device to other pack formations.

According to the present understanding, the forming group can also be referred to as a forming carriage or formation carriage or also as a format part carriage. Correspondingly, the individual forming elements can also be referred to as carriage elements or carriage parts.

In particular, the coupling device is designed and set up in such a way that the forming elements of the forming group that are coupled to one another are securely connected to one another in such a way that the assembled forming group safely and reliably withstands all occurring and acting forces that are required when grouping, compacting and connecting the containers. The adjacent forming elements of the forming group are preferably connected to one another in a non-positive and/or positive manner via the coupling device.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the adjacent forming elements of the forming group are magnetically connected to one another via the coupling device. The preferred magnetic connection can be brought about, for example, by correspondingly suitable magnetically acting or interacting components provided in the coupling device, in particular magnetic components or magnetic devices. For example, the coupling device can include (permanent) magnetic elements, for example magnetic rods or bar magnets with a suitable magnetic strength, in particular sufficient magnetic strength for a secure hold.

Advantageously, the magnetic connection can be released manually in a simple manner by applying a corresponding tensile force that acts counter to the magnetic force or force of attraction and exceeds it. For example, the magnetic connection can be established by sufficiently spatially approaching the corresponding magnetic components, and the forming group can thereby be assembled by coupling or coupling forming elements.

According to an alternative and likewise preferred embodiment variant, the adjacent forming elements of the forming group are connected to one another by a mechanical connection, the mechanical connection by a latch connection, plug connection or click connection or pressure connection is formed. For this purely mechanical connection, which is also preferred, correspondingly suitable, mechanically corresponding or interacting components can be provided in the coupling device, for example, which can be connected by simply plugging them together, onto or into one another in a plug-in direction and can be released again by pulling them apart in the opposite direction to the plug-in direction . It is also conceivable here to bring about the purely mechanical connection by means of corresponding or interacting components, the holding connection of which can be produced by screwing in, snapping in, latching in, hooking in or the like.

According to a further preferred embodiment variant, the coupling device comprises means for setting a distance between the adjacent forming elements. For example, additional spacers or intermediate pieces can be provided for this purpose, or the connection means provided in the coupling device for the purpose of coupling or connection can be used in different lengths and/or together with spacers. By using shorter or longer connecting means and/or by using spacers or intermediate pieces, the distance between the forming elements can be reduced or increased, as a result of which the forming groups can be adapted to different container diameters, for example.

The forming group preferably comprises three, four or more forming elements. At least one coupling device is provided in each case for connecting respective adjacent forming elements of the forming group. Each forming element is thus connected to the adjacent forming element(s) via at least one respective coupling device. In particular, forming elements arranged centrally within the forming group are engaged with at least two coupling devices, so that a coupling or connection is formed with each of the forming elements adjacent on both sides. For example, several coupling devices can also be provided to connect two adjacent forming elements, for example an upper coupling device arranged in an upper section or on the top and additionally a lower coupling device arranged in a lower section or on the underside.

The coupling device is advantageously designed in the form of a quick-connect device, in particular as a self-retaining and/or self-locking quick-connect device. In the present case, such a quick-connection device can also be understood as a quick-connector or as a changing system or quick-change system. With such a quick-connecting device or such a quick-change system, the interacting, corresponding components of the coupling device are already provided on the forming elements and arranged on them in such a way that each forming element can be coupled directly to another forming element.

The coupling device preferably comprises at least one first and at least one second coupling element, the first coupling element preferably being in the form of a connecting means acting as a link between adjacent forming elements and the second coupling element preferably being in the form of a fastening means for fastening the connecting means to the adjacent forming elements . The coupling elements, in particular the connecting means and the fastening means, interact in a corresponding manner in order to couple the forming elements.

According to advantageous embodiment variants, a connection device or a connection piece is provided for each forming element on its sliding carriage, preferably on an upper side or at an upper end and/or on an underside or at a lower end of the sliding carriage, which is flat and/or plate-shaped, for example is formed and also referred to as a coupling piece or coupling plate or can be understood as a connection and guide piece. A respective pair of second coupling elements, in particular fastening means, is preferably fastened or fixed to this connection piece of the sliding carriage for each forming element. For example, a number of two connecting means can be articulated on each forming element via the pair of fastening means provided, so that each forming element is basically designed to be coupled to two further forming elements, namely on both sides with one further forming element each.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment variant, the connecting means and/or the fastening means can be formed by at least one magnet element, in particular a permanent magnet element, for magnetic coupling of the forming elements. For example, a pair of magnet elements, in particular permanent magnet elements, can be attached as a second coupling element, namely as a fastening means, directly to the connection piece of the sliding carriage of each forming element, preferably be articulated there, for example by directly screwing the magnetic elements to the connection device or the connection piece. In this variant, a further magnetic element designed, for example, in the form of a bar magnet can serve as the connecting means, or also several further such magnetic elements, which can be connected magnetically, i.e. via corresponding magnetic interaction, namely by means of magnetic attraction or magnetic force with the magnetic elements forming the fastening means . By using bar magnets of different lengths and/or by using a plurality of magnetically combined bar magnets, for example, a distance between the forming elements to be coupled or coupled to one another can also be set variably.

As an alternative to the variant described above, a pair of respective connection connectors having a threaded pin can also be fixed, preferably articulated, on the connection device or the connection piece of the sliding carriage of each forming element, which serve as fastening means. The connection connectors fixed to a forming element are aligned in such a way that the threaded pins of the two connection connectors point in opposite directions, specifically each threaded pin facing one of the opposite sides of the forming element. Magnet elements, in particular permanent magnet elements, can in turn be screwed onto these connection connectors, specifically onto the threaded pin of the connection connector. Magnet elements suitable for this are referred to, for example, as so-called pot magnets and accordingly have an internal thread, which is preferably designed to correspond to the external thread of the threaded pin of the connection connector. In this variant, the magnetic elements assume the function of the connecting means.

For the purely mechanical coupling of the forming elements, according to a particularly preferred embodiment variant, the connecting means can be an elongated, bar-shaped or rod-shaped connecting means with two opposite ends, with an engagement section for the corresponding engagement with the fastening means being formed in a respective end region at the ends. In this variant, too, the fastening means are preferably provided on the connection piece of the sliding carriage of each forming element and can be formed, for example, by a push button or a plug or plug-in rod. For this purpose, the connecting means, for example in the form of a connecting strip or connecting rod, can be equipped with suitable engagement sections, in particular with corresponding recesses, so that it is possible to push or push onto the push button or the plug or plug-in rod to form a holding connection.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment variant, the connecting means can be designed in the form of a coupling rod, with several push-button elements or plug-in elements fixed to the forming element being provided as fastening means. In this variant, the coupling rod is designed for the corresponding engagement of the push-button or plug-in elements.

Several guide rollers and a swiveling guide bolt are arranged on the sliding carriage of each forming element. These guide rollers and guide bolts serve to move the forming element and thus also the forming group in a controlled manner in the required manner in order to group the containers and to compact and connect the group of containers. The guided, controlled movement along the respective orbits is mediated via the guide rollers and/or the guide pins and also the movement perpendicular to the transport direction of the containers in order to exert the corresponding contact pressure on the containers. This movement(s) of the forming groups takes place in a manner known to those skilled in the art.

The sliding carriage of each forming element comprises a supporting body, preferably a Z-shaped supporting body, connection devices being provided on the supporting body and the coupling device being held on the sliding carriage via the connection devices.

The pressing or formatting part of each forming element has at least one, preferably two, container contact surface(s) for touching contact with corresponding lateral surface sections of the containers. The pressing or formatting part is preferably connected to the sliding carriage in an exchangeable manner, so that it is easy to adapt to different container sizes.

As mentioned above, the present invention also relates to a grouping device for grouping containers and for separating and compressing a group of containers. The grouping device has at least one container transport device for two-lane transport of the containers in one transport direction and also at least one forming device arranged on the container transport device. The forming device has at least one pair of forming groups, the forming groups of the at least one pair being provided opposite one another, on opposite sides of the container transport device extending in the transport direction. The forming groups move at least in sections along the container transport device directly opposite one another synchronously with one another in the transport direction. Each forming group of the at least one forming device comprises at least two forming elements of the same type and arranged adjacent to one another along a main axis. Each forming group has at least one coupling device for coupling the at least two adjacent forming elements, the adjacent forming elements of the forming group being detachably and articulatedly connected to one another via the coupling device. The coupling device is designed and set up in such a way that the connection of the forming elements via the coupling device can be detached and restored without tools.

Furthermore, the present invention also relates to a device for producing bundles from container groups, comprising at least one container inlet, to which the containers are fed in at least one two-lane container flow, and a grouping device of the aforementioned type. The device also comprises at least one upstream of the grouping device in the transport direction Treatment device for applying an application of adhesive to the containers and/or an application device downstream of the grouping device in the direction of transport for applying a packaging blank to the containers.

The expression “substantially” or “approximately” means deviations from the respective exact value by no more than +/-10%, preferably by no more than +/-5%, and/or deviations in the form of changes that are insignificant for the function .

Further developments, advantages and possible applications of the invention also result from the following description of exemplary embodiments and from the figures. All of the features described and/or illustrated are fundamentally the subject matter of the invention, either alone or in any combination, regardless of how they are summarized in the claims or how they relate back to them. Furthermore, the features or combinations of features contained in the claims are declared to be part of the description.

• 1 in schematischer perspektivischer Darstellung die Herstellung eines Gebindes aus mehreren Behältern in Form von Flaschen durch unmittelbares Verbinden der Behälter über Kleberaufträge eines Kontaktklebers (Abschnitt A der 1) und in stark vereinfachter Ansicht eine Behältergruppe und Gebinde mit unterschiedlichen Gebindeformationen Kontaktklebers (Abschnitt B der 1);
• 2 in stark vereinfachter und grob schematischer Darstellung und in Draufsicht eine beispielhafte Ausführungsvariante einer an einer Behältertransportvorrichtung angeordneten Formiereinrichtung;
• 3 grob schematisch dargestellt eine stark vereinfachte Draufsicht auf eine Vorrichtung bzw. Anlage zur Herstellung von Gebinden;
• 4 in stark vereinfachter Darstellung eine Ansicht einer aus drei Formierelementen zusammengestellten, beispielhaften Formiergruppe;
• 5a in schematischer Perspektivansicht eine beispielhafte Ausführungsvariante einer Formiergruppe;
• 5b eine schematische Seitenansicht der beispielhaften Ausführungsvariante der Formiergruppe gemäß der 5a;
• 6 in schematischer Perspektivansicht eine weitere beispielhafte Ausführungsvariante einer Formiergruppe;
• 7 grob schematisch und stark vereinfacht dargestellt eine Draufsicht auf den Bereich der Anschlusseinrichtungen der Schiebeschlitten der Formierelemente mit dort angeordneter Kopplungseinrichtung;
• 8 eine Ausführungsvariante einer Kopplungseinrichtung umfassend ein Druckknopfelement (in Abschnitt A der 8 perspektivisch dargestellt und in Abschnitt B in einer Draufsicht) und eine Kopplungsstange (dargestellt in Abschnitt C der 8 in einer unterseitigen Ansicht);
• 9 einen perspektivischen Ausschnitt einer beispielhaften Ausführungsvariante einer Formiergruppe mit der Kopplungseinrichtung gemäß 8;
• 10 eine alternative Ausführungsvariante einer Kopplungseinrichtung umfassend ein Steckelement (in Abschnitt A der 10 perspektivisch dargestellt) und eine Kopplungsstange (perspektivisch dargestellt in Abschnitt B und in einer unterseitigen Ansicht in Abschnitt C der 10);
• 11 einen perspektivischen Ausschnitt einer beispielhaften Ausführungsvariante einer Formiergruppe mit der Kopplungseinrichtung gemäß 10; und
• 12 eine weitere alternative Ausführungsvariante einer Kopplungseinrichtung.

The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the figures of exemplary embodiments. Show it:

• 1 In a schematic perspective view, the production of a container from several containers in the form of bottles by directly connecting the containers via adhesive applications of a contact adhesive (Section A of 1 ) and in a highly simplified view a group of containers and containers with different container formations of contact adhesive (section B of the 1 );
• 2 in a greatly simplified and roughly schematic illustration and in plan view, an exemplary embodiment variant of a forming device arranged on a container transport device;
• 3 a highly simplified plan view of a device or plant for the production of containers shown roughly schematically;
• 4 in a greatly simplified representation a view of an exemplary forming group composed of three forming elements;
• 5a in a schematic perspective view an exemplary embodiment variant of a forming group;
• 5b a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment variant of the forming group according to FIG 5a ;
• 6 in a schematic perspective view a further exemplary embodiment variant of a forming group;
• 7 a top view of the region of the connecting devices of the sliding carriages of the forming elements with the coupling device arranged there, shown in a highly schematic and highly simplified manner;
• 8th an embodiment variant of a coupling device comprising a push button element (in section A of 8th shown in perspective and in section B in a plan view) and a connecting rod (shown in section C of 8th in a bottom view);
• 9 a perspective detail of an exemplary embodiment variant of a forming group with the coupling device according to FIG 8th ;
• 10 an alternative embodiment of a coupling device comprising a plug-in element (in section A of 10 shown in perspective) and a coupling rod (shown in perspective in Section B and in a bottom view in Section C of 10 );
• 11 a perspective detail of an exemplary embodiment variant of a forming group with the coupling device according to FIG 10 ; and
• 12 another alternative embodiment of a coupling device.

Where appropriate, identical reference symbols are used in the figures for elements of the invention that are the same or have the same effect.

In the figures, reference number 4 indicates containers, for example in the form of bottles, and more particularly in the form of bottles made of PET (polyethylene terephthalate) manufactured by blow moulding. The containers 4 are filled with a product and sealed. A respective predetermined number of containers 4 can first be put together or combined to form a container group 3.1, in which the containers 4 are initially arranged at a respective distance from one another, and finally combined or combined to form a container 3, 3', 3". Such containers 3, 3', 3" formed from respective container groups 3.1 can be present in different container formations, namely, for example, as a container 3 comprising "2 times 2" containers 4 or as a container 3 'comprising "3 times 2" containers 4 or as Container 3" comprising "4 by 2" container 4, as in Section B of 1 is shown. It goes without saying, however, that other container formations are of course also possible and the list given here (and representation in 1 ) is not final, but only gives selected examples.

Preferably, during the production of the container 3, 3', 3", the containers 4 forming a container group 3.1 can be put together and connected directly to one another by applying adhesive K of a contact adhesive, i.e. without outer packaging, to form the respective container 3, 3', 3". like this in section A of the 1 is roughly sketched. The adhesive applications K are applied to the areas of the lateral surfaces of the containers 2 that touch one another in the compacted container group 3.1, with the application of the adhesive usually being carried out in a treatment step preceding the grouping or assembly of the containers 4 to form the container groups 3.1 during the production of the Container 3, 3 ', 3 "takes place. It should be emphasized again at this point that the essence of the present invention is expressly not limited to the number of containers 4 of a container group 3.1 shown in each case. Rather, a corresponding container group 3.1 can also consist of a other number of containers 4 are formed.

The grouping of the containers 4 to form the container group 3.1 as well as the separation of the container group 3.1 from the following container flow and the compacting and pressing together of the containers 4 takes place by means of a grouping device 30 (cf. 2 ), which can be integrated, for example, in a superordinate device 20 or plant for the production of containers 3, 3', 3" used for the production of the containers 3, 3', 3" from the containers 4. A corresponding device 20 or plant for the production of containers 3, 3', 3" is, for example, in 3 roughly indicated schematically.

Such a device 20 for the production of containers 3, 3', 3" comprises, for example, a container inlet 21, at which the containers 4 are fed upright, i.e. with their vertical container axes oriented vertically, as a multi-track container flow, for example as a two-track container flow, via a corresponding container feed The containers 4 pass through the device 20 in a basic transport direction T. Preferably, the containers 4 in the two lanes, after entering the device 20 for the correct application of the adhesive applications K, are fed to respective treatment sections in a treatment device 22 also provided in the device 20 and transferred after the application of the adhesive applications K to one of the grouping device 30 associated or associated container transport device 11 or brought together on this, the container 4 on the container transport device 11 in turn preferably two lanes in the Transportr be moved further in direction T.

In the case of the grouping device 30, the container transport device 11, which is also described in more detail in 2 is shown schematically and in a top view, a forming device 10 for assembling or grouping the containers 4 moving in the transport direction T is arranged. The forming device 10 picks up the number of containers 4 desired for the pack 3, 3', 3" to be formed from the two-lane stream of containers, places the containers 4 together to form the container group 3.1, thereby separating the container group 3.1 from the following containers 4 in the container flow and compresses the containers 4 in the container group 3.1 to form the container 3, 3', 3".

As an alternative or in addition to the treatment device 22, the device 20 can have an application device 25 downstream of the grouping device 30 in the transport direction T sen, which is designed to apply or press a packaging blank, in particular a cardboard or cardboard blank on the container 4. The respective packaging blank comprises an opening or recess for each of the containers 4 of the group of containers, through which a positive and/or non-positive connection is produced between the blank and the containers 4 when the packaging blank is applied or pressed on. The packaging blank preferably serves as a carrier for the respective container and preferably has at least two gripping openings into which a person can reach with their fingers in order to hold the container on the packaging blank. If the application device 25 is provided instead of the treatment device 22, the containers 4 are advantageously combined or connected to form a container 3 by the packaging blank itself (instead of by adhesive applications K).

If the treatment device 22 is provided in the device 20 but no such application device 25, then a carrying handle application unit is preferably provided downstream of the grouping device 30 in the transport direction T, by means of which a carrying handle is attached to the container 3.

In the example shown, the container group 3.1 picked up or separated by the forming device 10 comprises a total of four containers 4 in an arrangement of two by two containers 4 to form a pack 3 with a “2 by 2” pack formation. The finished container 3 is in the 2 shown in a state in which the container 3 has already run out of a arranged in the transport direction T after the container transport device 11 container outlet.

For example, the containers 4 transported on the container transport device 11 are initially arranged at a distance from one another, with the forming device 10 grasping or picking up the containers 4 of the container groups 3.1 in this arrangement "at a distance from one another", the containers 4 finally during their transport in the transport direction T compacted and connected to form the container 3 together. For this purpose, the containers 4 of the container group 3.1 in the example shown are pressed against one another both transversely to the transport direction T and in the transport direction T as well as against the transport direction T, so that the connection of the containers 4 of each container group 3.1 via the adhesive applications K to the container 3 in the desired way.

The at least one forming device 10 therefore has a pair of forming groups 1, 2, with the forming groups 1, 2 being arranged in pairs opposite one another on sides of the container transport device 11 which extend in the transport direction T, along which essentially the forming groups 1, 2 extend. The forming groups 1, 2 forming a respective pair can also be referred to as the first and second forming groups 1, 2 of a pair. It can be provided in particular that the first and second forming groups 1, 2 are identical, but are mirror-symmetrical to a vertical center plane of the grouping device 30 to each other.

Each of the forming groups 1, 2 is, for example, on or along a respective closed guide or circulating path 23, 24 (cf. 3 ) moves, i.e. the first forming group 1 moves along the first circulating path 23 and the second forming group 2 moves along the second circulating path 24, with the guide or circulating paths 23, 24 of the forming groups 1, 2 moving in relation to the container transport path 11 opposite. At least a partial length 23.1, 24.1 of each guide or circulating path 23, 24 extends along one side of the container transport path 11, essentially parallel thereto. At least in sections on these partial lengths 23.1, 24.1 of the respective guide or circulating tracks 23, 24, the forming groups 1, 2 forming the pair are arranged directly opposite one another, preferably mirror-symmetrically to a vertical central plane and facing one another and move synchronously with one another in the transport direction T

Each of the forming groups 1, 2 is composed of at least two similar forming elements 5, which are arranged next to one another along a main axis HA of the forming group 1, 2, such as in particular also from FIG 4 emerges. The forming elements 5 of a respective forming group 1, 2 are detachable from one another and coupled to one another in an articulated manner. In example of 2 and 3 two forming elements 5 are provided as an example per forming group 1, 2, in the example of 4 three such forming elements 5 are coupled together to form a forming group 1, 2.

The forming elements 5 that can be coupled or coupled to one another in a detachable and articulated manner can also be understood and referred to as forming group modules or forming modules and can be variably designed in the manner of a modular design ler number to a respective forming group 1, 2 coupled or assembled with each other, whereby the present forming group 1, 2 can be adapted particularly quickly and easily and without tools for different pack formations and the present forming group 1, 2 thus brings decisive advantages. The forming elements 5 can in particular be flexibly combined and can be quickly coupled together or separated from one another by decoupling, as a result of which the forming group 1, 2 can be variably adapted or converted depending on the pack formation to be produced.

Based on the in 4 A highly simplified representation of the forming group 1, 2 created by way of example from three forming elements 5, the flexible composition and adaptation of the forming group 1, 2 can be easily illustrated by coupling the forming elements 5 in the desired number. This shows the 4 In addition to the forming group 1, 2, there is also a forming element 5 that has not yet been coupled and is shown in isolation, which is available for further coupling to the already existing forming group 1, 2.

A coupling device 8 is provided for the tool-free detachable and re-establishable coupling of the adjacent forming elements 5 arranged next to one another in the direction of the main axis HA.

The coupling device 8 in 4 The embodiment variant illustrated by way of example comprises a connecting means 12 which is arranged in the manner of a link between respectively adjacent forming elements 5 and connects them, namely couples them to one another. The connecting means 12 is fastened via corresponding fastening means 9 on the upper side of the forming element 5 to those corresponding adjacent forming elements 5 which the relevant connecting means 12 connects. In particular, the connecting means 12 is articulated to corresponding adjacent forming elements 5 via the fastening means 9 provided on the upper side of the forming element 5 . The connecting means 12 extends over a predetermined connecting length from forming element 5 to forming element 5 and thus also keeps directly adjacent forming elements 5 at a defined distance d from one another. In this case, the connecting means 12 also extends over a gap defined by the predetermined distance d between the forming elements 5 and thus virtually bridges this gap.

The fastening means 9 for fastening or articulating the connecting means 12 are preferably provided on each of the forming elements 5 and are attached there in an easily accessible manner, in particular fastened or permanently mounted. In the example of 4 the connecting means 12 is already connected to the fastening means 9 in the additional forming element 5, which is shown in isolation and is ready for further coupling to the forming group 1, 2, and is thus preassembled on the forming element 5.

Optionally, in particular also additionally, a lower connecting means 12' fastened via lower fastening means 9' can be provided on the underside of the forming elements 5 4 is indicated by dashed representation.

The connection between the fastening means 9, 9′ and the connection means 12, 12 can be established and released without the use of a tool, the connection being established, for example, by simply plugging, clamping, latching or by magnetic interaction or magnetic closure . Examples of corresponding fasteners 9, 9 'and connecting means 12, 12' are below in connection with 5a , 5b until 12 described in more detail.

In the following, however, the forming elements 5 of the same type are first explained in more detail for a better understanding. Each forming element 5 comprises a sliding carriage 6 and a pressing or formatting part 7 that is detachably attached to the sliding carriage 6. The sliding carriage is basically used, among other things, for supporting and for guided movement of the pressing or formatting part 7, in particular also for guided movement or guided Transporting or moving the forming element 5 along the respective closed guide or revolving path 23, 24, the forming elements 5 being moved via the sliding carriage 6 and pivotable guide bolts 31 and/or guide rollers 32 provided there (see e.g. 5a , 5b ) are guided. The required pressing or contact pressure movement, which takes place in a guided and controlled manner, is also implemented via the sliding carriage 6 .

In particular, the guided movement along the respective guide or circulating tracks 23, 24 takes place in such a way that the forming groups 1, 2 formed from the forming elements 5 move along the partial lengths 23.1, 24.1 of the guide or circulating tracks 23, 24 together with the containers on the container transport track 11 moving containers 4 of the container group 3.1 are moved and thereby the respective pressing or format parts 7 of the forming elements 5 together to form a container group 3.1 can engage the container 4 to be taken in the required manner in order to compress the container 4 of the container group 3.1 and ultimately to form the container 3, 3', 3".

The pressing or format parts 7 of the forming elements 5 each have at least one, preferably two, container contact surface(s) 35, which come into contact with corresponding lateral surface sections of the containers 4 during the grouping and guide and hold the containers 4 to produce the container group 3.1 orientate and/or maneuver and compress or connect to form the container 3, 3', 3". In the case of two container contact surfaces 35 provided, these can be arranged at a vertical distance from one another and form an upper and lower container contact surface. The upper one is advantageous and/or lower container contact surface 35 adapted to the respective diameter of a container outer lateral surface of a corresponding container 4 of a container group 3.1, in particular in such a way that the corresponding container contact surface 35 encompasses the respective container outer lateral surface at least partially, preferably on less than that half circumference.

A part of the guide rollers 32 provided on the corresponding sliding carriage 6 is arranged, for example, on a supporting body 33 of the sliding carriage 6, which in the example of FIG 5a , 5b and 6 is designed as a substantially Z-shaped body and on the top and bottom of which respective connection devices 34, 34' are provided, which in turn carry another part of the guide rollers 32. The connecting devices 34, 34' can also be referred to as connecting and guiding pieces. The guide rollers 32 are guided in guide rails, which are not shown in detail, and are preferably positively guided on two opposite sides. The course of the guide rails can correspond to the course of a respective closed orbit 23, 24. All of the existing guide rollers 32 of each corresponding sliding carriage 6 are designed both for vertical guidance and for horizontal guidance of the respective sliding carriage 6 .

In order to be able to adapt the forming elements 5 and thus the forming group 1, 2 to different container formats, it is preferably provided that the pressing or format parts 7 are attached to the sliding carriage 6 in a detachable and exchangeable manner. By simply changing the pressing or formatting parts 7, the forming elements 5 and thus the forming group 1, 2 can be adjusted to different containers 4 with smaller or larger diameters. The pressing or format part 7 is preferably fastened and held on or via a mounting plate arranged on the connection device 34 on the upper side.

The following are now with reference to the 5a , 5b until 12 various exemplary embodiments of coupling devices 8 for coupling the forming elements 5 are described in more detail. What all embodiment variants have in common is that the respective coupling devices 8 comprise at least fastening means 9, 9' and at least one connecting means 12, 12', with fastening means 9 for fastening the connecting means 12 being arranged at least on the connecting devices 34 provided on the upper side of the sliding carriage 6, and optionally also Fastening means 9' for fastening the connecting means 12' can be arranged on the connecting devices 34' provided on the underside of the sliding carriage 6.

the 5a , 5b until 7 show variants in which the forming elements 5 of the forming group 1, 2 are magnetically connected to one another via the coupling device 8. There they are 5a , 5b and 6 different views of forming groups 1, 2 according to a first embodiment of the magnetic coupling. 7 shows a roughly schematic plan view of the coupling device 8 arranged on the top connection device 34 according to a second embodiment variant of the magnetic coupling. The example of 5a and 5b is here a assembled from three forming elements 5 forming group 1, 2 and the 6 shows three forming groups 1, 2 arranged one behind the other in a row, each of which comprises two forming elements 5 coupled together.

At the first, in the 5a , 5b and 6 In the illustrated variant of the magnetic coupling, a pair of respective connection connectors is provided as fastening means 9 on the connection device 34 of the sliding carriage 6 of each forming element 5, the connection connectors each having a threaded pin and being fixed, in particular articulated, to the connection device 34, for example by screwing.

The fixed connection connectors 9 are aligned in such a way that the threaded pins of the two connection connectors 9 point in opposite directions, specifically each threaded pin facing one of the opposite sides of the forming element 5 . On each of these connection connectors, a magnetic element 40, 41, in particular special permanent magnet element, screwed on. Such suitable magnetic elements 40, 41 are referred to as so-called pot magnets, for example, and accordingly have an internal thread, which is preferably designed to correspond to the external thread of the threaded pin of the connection connector 9. In this variant, the magnetic elements 40, 41 assume the function of the connecting means 12. It goes without saying that the orientation or magnetic polarity of the magnetic elements 40, 41 is such that a magnetic element 40 arranged on a first forming element 5 and a magnetic element 41 of the adjacent forming element 5 connect magnetically.

To adapt or adjust the forming group 1, 2 for different pack formations, only the magnetic connections are released and then reconnected. When a forming group 1, 2 has been created, the magnetic elements 40, 41 which point outwards and are therefore free are secured with the aid of an additional pin.

At the second, in 7 In the illustrated variant of the magnetic coupling, a magnet element 43 is fastened directly to the connection device 34 of the sliding carriage 6 of each forming element 5 as fastening means 9, preferably articulated there, for example by direct screwing. In this variant, the fastening means 9 formed by connection connectors are themselves magnetic. To couple two adjacent forming elements 5, magnetic rods 42 are placed between the magnetic elements 43 of adjacent forming elements 5, which connect the forming elements 5 to form the corresponding forming group 1, 2. Here, too, only the magnetic connections are released and then reconnected to adapt or set the forming group 1, 2 for different pack formations. When a forming group 1, 2 has been created, the magnetic elements 43 which point outwards and are therefore free can in turn be secured with the aid of an additional pin.

This variant has the additional advantage that the distance d between the forming elements 5 in the forming group 1, 2 can be adjusted by using a longer/shorter magnetic rod 42 and/or by using, for example, two or more magnetic rods 42.

the 8th and 9 show a first variant of a coupling device 8 for a mechanical coupling of the forming elements 5 by means of a push button technique. In this variant, a fastening means 9 is in section A of the 8th Push button element 44 shown isolated in a perspective view is provided with a button section 45 . Section B of 8th shows the push button element 44 in a plan view of an upper side that includes the button section 45 . The push button element 44 can be attached to the connection device 34 of the sliding carriage 6 of each forming element 5 . For example, the push-button element 44 has a threaded bolt at its end opposite the button section 45, by means of which the push-button element 44 can be fastened, in particular screwed, to the connection device 34 of the sliding carriage of a forming element 5. 9 1 shows a perspective detail of a forming group 1, 2 with snap fastener elements 44 attached to the connecting device 34 of the forming elements 5.

In this embodiment variant, a coupling rod 46 is provided as connecting means 12, which has at its respective end regions 12.1, 12.2 a recess which is complementary to the button section 45 of the push button element 44 and interacts correspondingly therewith as an engagement section 13, with the engagement section 13 of the coupling rod 46 and the button section 45 of the snap fastener element 44 are configured to cooperate to form a snap fastener connection. Here, the coupling can be assembled and disassembled simply by pressing on and pulling off, in that the coupling rod 46 and the push-button element 44 are pressed on one another or separated from one another by pulling.

the 10 and 11 show a further alternative embodiment of a coupling device 8 for a mechanical coupling of the forming elements 5 by means of a plug-in connection technology. In this variant, a fastening means 9 is in section A of the 10 plug-in element 47 shown isolated in a perspective view is provided, which can be designed, for example, in the form of a plug-in rod or a plug-in sleeve. The plug-in elements 47 can be attached to the connection device 34 of the sliding carriage 6 of each forming element 5 . For this purpose, for example, the plug-in elements 47 can be inserted into corresponding, optionally adapted, openings or openings provided on the connecting device 34, with the plug-in elements 47 and the openings or openings provided on the connecting device 34 preferably being designed and adapted, in particular coordinated with one another, such that the plug-in elements 47 are accommodated in the openings of the connecting device 34 in a form-fitting and holding manner, preferably latching, in the manner of a snap-in plug connection. 11 shows by a section shown in perspective shows a forming group 1, 2 with plug-in elements 47 fastened to the connecting device 34 of the forming elements 5.

In this embodiment variant, a coupling rod 48 is again provided as connecting means 12, which on its respective end regions 12.1, 12.2 has a recess which is complementary to the plug-in element 47 and interacts correspondingly with it as an engagement section 13, with the engagement section 13 of the coupling rod 48 and one of the connecting device 34 upwardly protruding free end of the plug-in element 47 accommodated in the opening in the connecting device 34 for the cooperative formation of a plug-in connection, in particular a snap-in plug-in connection, are set up in such a way that a section of the plug-in element 47 is positively locked and held, preferably latched, in the engagement section 13 of the Coupling rod 48 are added.

In this case, the coupling can in turn be assembled and disassembled by simply pressing on and pulling off, in that the coupling rod 48 and the plug-in elements 47 are plugged together by pressing on one another or separated from one another by pulling. The plug-in elements 47 can simply remain in the connection device 34 even if they are not needed.

the 12 shows another alternative embodiment of a coupling device 8 for a mechanical coupling of the forming elements 5 by means of a self-retaining quick connection or locking technology. The coupling device 8 is designed as a self-retaining, locking quick connection device, which comprises two substantially identical, corresponding coupling pieces 49, 49', namely a first coupling piece 49 and a second coupling piece 49', which together form the connecting means 12. The coupling devices 49, 49' are, for example, in turn arranged on the sliding carriage 6 of the forming elements 5, in particular on the connecting devices 34, in such a way that a first coupling piece 49 of a forming element 5 interacts with a second coupling piece 49' of a respective adjacent forming element 5 and can make a connection.

Sections A and B of the 12 show the coupling pieces 49, 49' in the released or unconnected state in a respective top view (A) or bottom view (B). Sections C and D of the 12 show the coupling pieces 49, 49' in the connected, coupled state, again in a respective top (C) and bottom (D) view.

Each coupling piece 49, 49' has a shaped body 50, a tension spring 51 and a lever 52. In order to couple the forming elements 5, the coupling pieces 49, 49' can be simply connected by tensioning the levers counteracting the spring action of the tension springs 51 until they have reached their end position. In this position, the two coupling pieces 49, 49' can be pushed into one another while the lever 52 is still held. As soon as the coupling pieces 49, 49' are completely plugged into one another, the levers 52 can be released or released, as a result of which the levers 52 are pulled back or pushed back under the action of the tension springs 51. The levers 52 can now, due to their newly positioned position, twist into one another and automatically lock or block the connection that has been made, so that a renewed pulling apart of the two coupling pieces 49, 49' is blocked and can only be released again actively - after unlocking . To release, the levers 52 must again first be stretched against the spring action until the end position is reached and the coupling pieces 49, 49' can finally be pulled apart.

In this embodiment variant, too, the coupling can be carried out quickly and easily, which ensures that the forming groups 1, 2 can be quickly changed over to different pack formations. Locking with self-locking prevents unlocking during normal operation. However, the locking is still easy to release actively and can be automated.

The invention has been described above using exemplary embodiments. It goes without saying that a large number of changes or modifications are possible without departing from the protective scope of the invention, which is defined by the patent claims.

Reference List

1

formation group

2

formation group

3, 3', 3"

container

3.1

container group

4

container

5

forming element

6

sliding carriage

7

Press-on or format part

8th

coupling device

9, 9'

fasteners

10

forming device

11

container transport device

12, 12'

lanyard

12.1, 12.2

End portion of the lanyard

13

engagement section

20

Device for producing bundles

21

container inlet

22

treatment facility

23, 24

orbit

23.1, 24.1

part length

25

application device

30

forming device

31

guide pin

32

guide rollers

33

body

34, 34'

connection device

35

container contact area

40, 41

magnetic element

42

magnetic bar

44

snap button element

45

button section

46

connecting rod

47

plug-in element

48

connecting rod

49, 49'

coupling piece

50

molding

51

tension spring

52

lever

T

transport direction

i.e

Distance

HA

main axis

K

glue application

QUOTES INCLUDED IN DESCRIPTION

This list of documents cited 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

• DE 102013109305 A1 [0004]
• DE 102018109770 A1 [0005]

Claims (16)

Forming group (1, 2) for a forming device (10) for grouping containers (4) moving in a transport direction (T), wherein the forming group (1, 2) has at least two similar forming elements ( 5) and wherein each forming element (5) has at least one sliding carriage (6) and at least one pressing or formatting part (7) detachably attached to the sliding carriage (6), characterized by at least one coupling device (8) for coupling the at least two adjacent forming elements (5), the adjacent forming elements (5) of the forming group (1, 2) being detachably and articulatedly connected to one another via the coupling device (8) and the coupling device (8) being designed and set up in such a way that the connection of the forming elements (5) can be detached and restored without tools via the coupling device (8). Forming group (1, 2) after claim 1 , characterized in that the adjacent forming elements (5) of the forming group (1, 2) are connected to one another in a non-positive and/or positive manner via the coupling device (8). Forming group (1, 2) after claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the adjacent forming elements (5) of the forming group (1, 2) are magnetically connected to one another via the coupling device (8). Forming group (1, 2) after claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the adjacent forming elements (5) of the forming group (1, 2) are connected to one another by a mechanical connection via the coupling device (8), the mechanical connection being formed by a snap-in connection, plug-in connection, click connection or push-button connection. Forming group (1, 2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coupling device (8) comprises means for setting a distance (d) between adjacent, coupled forming elements (5). Forming group (1, 2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the forming group (1, 2) comprises at least three or at least four forming elements (5), each forming element (5) being connected via at least one respective coupling device (8) to the or the adjacent forming elements (5) is connected. Forming group (1, 2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coupling device (8) is designed in the form of a quick connection device, in particular as a self-retaining and self-locking quick connection device. Forming group (1, 2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coupling device (8) has at least one connecting means (12) acting as a link between adjacent forming elements (5) and fastening means (9) for fastening the connecting means (12) to the adjacent forming elements (5), wherein the connecting means (12) and the fastening means (9) interact correspondingly in order to couple the forming elements (5). Forming group (1, 2) after claim 8 , characterized in that the connecting means (12) and/or the fastening means (9) are formed by at least one magnetic element (40, 41, 42), the connecting means (12) and the fastening means (9) interacting magnetically in a corresponding manner. Forming group (1, 2) after claim 8 , characterized in that the connecting means (12) is an elongate, bar-shaped or rod-shaped connecting means with two opposite ends, wherein in a respective end region (12.1, 12.2) at the ends an engagement section (13) for the corresponding engagement with the Fastening means (9) is formed. Forming group (1, 2) after claim 10 , characterized in that the connecting means (12) is designed in the form of a coupling rod (46, 48) and a plurality of push-button elements (44) or plug-in elements (47) fixed to the forming element (5) are provided as fastening means (9), the coupling rod ( 46, 48) for the corresponding engagement of the push-button or plug-in elements (44, 47). Forming group (1, 2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a plurality of guide rollers (32) and a pivotable guide pin (31) are arranged on the sliding carriage (6) of each forming element (5). Forming group (1, 2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sliding carriage (6) of each forming element (5) comprises a supporting body (33), preferably a Z-shaped supporting body (33), wherein on the supporting body ( 33) connection devices (34, 34 ') are provided and wherein the coupling device (8) is held on the sliding carriage (6) via the connecting devices (34, 34'). Forming group (1, 2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pressing or formatting part (7) of each forming element (5) has at least one, preferably two, container contact surface(s) for touching contact with corresponding lateral surface sections of the containers (4) decreed. Grouping device (30) for grouping containers (4) and for separating and compressing a group of containers (3.1), having at least one container transport device (11) for two-lane transport of the containers (4) in one transport direction (T) and also having at least one the forming device (10) arranged on the container transport device (11), the forming device (10) having at least one pair of forming groups (1, 2) and the forming groups (1, 2) of the at least one pair lying opposite one another in the transport direction (T) extending and mutually opposite sides of the container transport device (11), the forming groups (1, 2) moving at least in sections along the container transport device (11) directly opposite one another synchronously with one another in the transport direction (T), characterized in that each forming group ( 1, 2) of the at least one forming device (10). is formed according to one of the preceding claims. Device (20) for producing bundles (3, 3', 3") from container groups (3.1), comprising at least one container inlet (21) to which the containers (4) are fed in at least one two-lane container stream, and a grouping device (30 ) after claim 15 , further comprising at least one treatment device (22) upstream of the grouping device (30) in the direction of transport (T) for applying an application of adhesive (K) to the containers (4) and/or an application device (22) downstream of the grouping device (30) in the direction of transport (T) 25) for applying a packaging blank to the containers (4).

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