EP3436359A1

EP3436359A1 - Method and device for forming container arrangements

Info

Publication number: EP3436359A1
Application number: EP16823018.3A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Johannes KIRZINGER; Christian Hastreiter; Manuel Kollmuss; Richard Eschlbeck; Heiner Schäfer; Andreas Fritsch; Jürgen Werner; Thomas Wimmer; Herbert Spindler; Christian Napravnik
Original assignee: Krones AG
Current assignee: Krones AG
Priority date: 2016-03-30
Filing date: 2016-12-30
Publication date: 2019-02-06
Also published as: US20190112085A1; DE102016105746A1; WO2017167426A1; CN109153462A

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for packing arrangements of piece goods (1), in which a plurality of piece goods (10) and particularly containers (10) are at least partially interconnected by means of a first connection means, at least two piece goods of said plurality of piece goods being directly interconnected by means of the connection means (42). According to the invention, this plurality of piece goods (10) connected by means of the connection means (42) is packed with a second connection means in the form of a second wrapping element (14) and the plurality of piece goods connected by means of a first connection means is transported to a packaging device (54) by means of a transport device and surrounded and particularly wrapped by means of said packaging device (54) with the second wrapping element (14).

Description

Method and apparatus for forming container assemblies

description

The present invention relates to a method and an apparatus for forming Stückgutzzusammenstellungen, in particular container assemblies and in particular of wrapped Stückgutzzusammenstellungen. Such methods and devices have been known for a long time from the prior art.

Thus, for example, it is known that assemblies of containers, for example, containers supplied in two rows are provided with a film and this film is then shrunk to these containers. In order to achieve this, so-called shrink tunnels are provided in the prior art, through which the containers are transported. In addition, however, in the prior art, methods and devices have recently become known in which such container compositions are wrapped with a stretchable film.

So far, for example, methods for producing two-row winding packages are known, wherein a double-row bottle stream is wrapped with a film, in particular a so-called stretch film and then separated by means of a cutting device containers. A disadvantage of this approach is that usually only two-tier containers can be produced and multi-row containers are not produced, especially since the middle containers are not held by the stretch film and can slip out of the container, for example, can slide down. In addition, the containers produced in this way are open at the sides. A completely closed container is usually not produced in this way. Advantageously, in the known in the prior art methods and packaging systems for producing such film packaging, the endlessly funded film packages, in particular at defined places, cut, which can be done for example by means of a cutting device between successive container pairs, in particular carried out vertically through the film packaging is so that each one container with four, six or eight containers is separated, which retains the desired mechanical stability in spite of the partially open end faces in two-row containers.

The present invention is therefore based on the object to provide a way with which also multi-row containers or generally larger containers can be produced. In addition, a possibility should preferably be created to produce an at least substantially and preferably completely enclosed container. It should be noted, however, that it may not be necessary to achieve both of the stated objects by the same embodiment of the invention. The solutions specified in the independent claims realize the tasks described herein. In a method according to the invention for packaging piece goods compilations, a plurality of piece goods, in particular similar piece goods and in particular containers, are fed by means of a transport device along a predetermined transport direction. Furthermore, this plurality of piece goods is packaged and / or combined by means of a first wrapping element, wherein the first development element at least partially surrounds the plurality of packaged goods. Further, the plurality of packages packed with the first wrapping member are packaged with a second wrapping member, and for this, the plurality of packages packed with the first wrapping member are wrapped by a wrapping means with a wrapping member in the form of a stretchable film member, preferably wrapping around one by the transporting direction defined longitudinal axis takes place.

Packing of the piece goods compilation is understood in particular to mean that the individual packaged goods of this piece compilation are at least temporarily held together by this wrapping element. According to the invention, the plurality of piece goods packed with the first wrapping element is supplied with at least one more piece goods and the assembly of the plurality of goods packed with the first wrapping element and the at least one further piece goods is wrapped with the second wrapping element.

Advantageously, the first wrapping element is also a film element and in particular a stretchable film element. However, it would also be conceivable for the first wrapping element to be a band-like wrapping element which is placed around the piece goods compilation or arranged thereon. The first wrapping element may also be a shrink film, which has been shrunk onto the containers or the piece goods in particular. In general, the wrapping elements are preferably preferably elongated, in particular ribbon-like, wrapping elements, which extend in particular in a longitudinal direction and adjacent thereto, but to a substantial extent in a transverse direction perpendicular thereto. Preferably, these wrapping elements are in a rolled-up form and can be unwound, for example, from a carrier roll. The wrapping elements are preferably elements produced from a plastic or from a paper-containing material.

It is therefore proposed in this embodiment that initially provided with a Umwicklungselement piece goods compilation is provided, this then further cargo is fed and then the compilation are in turn surrounded by a Umwicklungselement in the form of a film element. Advantageously, it is at the surrounded with the first Umwicklungselement piece goods compilation is a two-row container. However, it would also be conceivable that this piece goods compilation is already a three- or multi-row container. It could also be a single-row container. In addition, it would also be possible for two or more piece goods compilations, already combined in each case with a first wrapping element, to be surrounded by the second wrapping element and thus assembled into a large pack. Thus, the invention describes a possibility, as described above, first to produce a double-row container, for example, and to produce a stable, multi-row container by adding, for example, single-row bottle flows and repeated packaging and in particular repeated winding. In this case, as explained in more detail below, the possibility of the shrinkage package or containers produced by a winding process being rotated by a predetermined angle, for example 90 °, and again covered with a film, such as a wrapping film, so as to be fully enclosed To produce containers. Thus, in a further method according to the invention for the packaging of piece goods compilations, a plurality of piece goods and in particular containers is fed by means of a transport device along a predetermined transport direction and this plurality of piece goods is packed by means of a first wrapping element, wherein the first wrapping element at least partially covers the plurality of piece goods. wraps around and wrapped with the first Umwicklungselement variety of cargo with a second Umwicklungselement and this is wrapped with the first Umwicklungselement piece number of cargo wrapped by a Umwickeleinrichtung with the stretchable film element, said wrapping preferably defines a defined by the transport direction Longitudinal axis takes place.

Advantageously, the first wrapping element and the second wrapping element, which is a film element, are attached to the articles in such a way that the goods are completely enclosed by the entirety of the first film element and the second film element. This is to be understood that this inclusion is not necessarily always done by both Umwicklungselemente, but also consider either one or the other film element together considered complete all areas of the piece goods compilation. Advantageously, here too the first wrapping element may be a stretchable film or a stretch film, but it would also be possible to shrink a film, as explained above.

Advantageously, the piece goods are lying against each other or transported touching. Even with the compilation thus formed touch at least two cargo. Preferably, several piece goods each touch with their peripheral wall. Another object of the invention is to improve the stability of such Stückgutzzusammenstellungen. Accordingly, it is proposed in a further method according to the invention for the packaging of piece goods compilations that a plurality of piece goods and in particular containers is at least partially connected to each other by means of a first connecting means, for which purpose at least two of these piece goods are fastened directly to each other.

According to the invention, this plurality of piece goods, which are at least partially connected by the connecting means, is packaged with a second connecting means in the form of a second wrapping element and for this purpose the plurality of piece goods connected by means of a first connecting means are transported by means of a transport device to a packaging device and through this packing device wrapped and / or surrounded with the second wrapping element. In this variant of the invention it is proposed that initially a piece goods compilation is made available in which at least two containers and preferably a plurality of containers are each connected to each other by the connecting means. In order to increase the stability of this piece goods compilation, this piece goods compilation is still surrounded by a further Umwickelungs- or wrapping element and in particular a plastic element, in particular a film element.

A connection of the containers with each other is here understood in particular that not a plurality of containers is connected to each other by a common element, such as an enveloping band, but in each case a container is directly connected to another container. For example, a container can be positively connected to another element. In this case, in particular a wall of a container can be attached to a wall of another container.

Advantageously, the second wrapping element is a stretchable film element, as described above. However, instead of a stretchable film element, a wrapping tape or even a shrink film could be used.

In a further advantageous method, this wrapping with the second wrapping element takes place around a longitudinal axis defined by a transport direction. Here, It is in turn in the transport direction to the transport direction in which the containers of the above-mentioned packaging device are supplied and / or in which the containers are passed through this packaging means. The above-described aspects as well as the aspects to be described below can also be applied correspondingly to this method.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the connecting means is a flowable connecting means and in particular an adhesive. In this case, a cold adhesive or a hot (hot melt) adhesive can be used. Furthermore, it could be an acrylate adhesive. It would also be conceivable that splices are arranged on the containers at certain areas. For example, adhesive dots could be arranged on the outer surfaces of the containers. In addition, the containers could also be welded together. Advantageously, this adhesive is applied to an outer surface of the containers.

It would also be possible that the adhesive is applied to an outer wall of already filled containers. In a further advantageous embodiment, a plurality of containers and preferably also all containers are connected to one another by means of the connection means.

In a further preferred method, the connecting means holds at least two of the piece goods of the piece goods combination directly together. Advantageously, the packaging means holds together at least three of the piece goods of the piece goods compilation. It is possible that each piece goods and in particular each container connected to at least two other containers and in particular is directly connected. In addition, it would also be conceivable that some of the containers are connected to more than two other containers or generally general cargo. Advantageously, at least one, preferably several and particularly preferably each piece goods are directly connected to its nearest neighbor.

In a further preferred method, the connecting means holds together at least two piece goods disposed externally with respect to the piece goods compilation. This embodiment is based on the idea that in a wrapped piece goods compilation often the outer containers are particularly at risk of falling out. If in this case external containers are connected to each other or to internal containers by a connecting means such as an adhesive, an all too easy falling out of these containers can be prevented. Advantageously, at least the cargo of an outer row of this piece goods compilation are connected to each other or with inner rows by the connecting means.

Advantageously, each of the pieces of goods arranged on the outside with regard to the piece goods compilation is connected by means of the connecting means to at least one further piece goods.

Advantageously, each piece goods is connected to at least two further piece goods by the connecting means. For example, it would also be possible for the piece goods to be present in several rows and for the individual piece goods to be connected to one another in each row by the connecting means.

In a further preferred method, a handle element is arranged on the piece goods compilation. In this case, it is preferably possible for a grip element to be arranged on the already wrapped piece goods assembly, in particular this grip element being arranged on a film element, for example adhered thereto. However, it would also be possible for the gripping element to be fastened directly to the piece goods and for this gripping element to be wrapped at least partially by the wrapping element. In this way, it may be possible that the film element is first removed when opening and then the handle element is accessible. However, it would also be possible for the gripping element to be fastened to a region of the piece goods compilation on which no wrapping element is located, for example on a plane which is perpendicular to the transport direction or the wrapping direction.

The fact that the wrapping device is already supplied here an assembly of at least partially glued piece goods, it is advantageously possible to dispense with the otherwise to be wrapped with side guide devices, since the containers are already held together.

Likewise, it would also be possible by using an already at least partially glued piece goods compilation, on the stationary support to which the Stückgutzu- assembly is postponed, then to be wrapped together with this, to dispense. Instead, it would be conceivable to push the already at least partially bonded Stückgutzusammenstellung over a gap and introduce the wrap in this gap.

By using a second wrapping, it is also possible in these embodiments to reduce the adhesive application weights and thus the amounts of adhesive compared with methods known from the prior art. It would thus be possible for the containers to already be held together so well with a smaller amount of adhesive and / or a smaller number of adhesive points that a stable package is created together with the outer wrapping. In addition, the bond between the containers can also be used only to obtain a more stable intermediate product, which can be handled better in the further processing.

Advantageously, the film element is a plastic film and in particular a stretchable plastic film. Particularly preferably, this plastic film has a thickness which is between 3 μηι and 50 μηι, preferably between 5 μηι and 30 μηι, more preferably between 8 μηι and 14 μηι and more preferably between 8 μηι and 12 μηι. The film element is preferably a transparent film element

Preferably, the film element is at least once completely circumferentially mounted on the Stückgutzzusammenstellung. In addition, however, it would also be conceivable that the piece goods compilation is wrapped several times with the film element.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the conveying direction is rectilinear. The piece goods may in particular be plastic bottles or glass bottles. However, it would also be conceivable to use it on other containers, such as cans or so-called pouches.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the first wrapping element and / or the second wrapping element can be arranged such that it spirally wound around the compilation. Furthermore, it would also be conceivable within the scope of the invention to group, for example shrinkage thread or smaller winding packages and / or to stack and to wrap again. In this case, this inventive method could also be used as a substitute for so-called shrink-to-shrink method, in which the grouped and / or stacked containers are wrapped with shrink film and shrunk. In fact, such a shrink-to-shrink process entails the risk that the film of the smaller containers is glued or welded to the "collecting foil." In addition, the winding method described here is also more favorable in terms of energy.

Overall, the invention allows a more energetically favorable approach and also a reduction in packaging material. In particular, a solution for unprinted low-cost containers and transport packaging can thus be created. In a further advantageous variant of the method, a position of the piece goods being provided with the first film element or the first wrapping element is changed relative to the transport direction before the film element or the second wrapping element is attached. Advantageously, the Stückgutzzusammenstellung, in particular with respect to the transport device, rotated. Advantageously, a rotation takes place about a defined angle, for example by 90 °. Particular preference is given to a

Rotation with respect to a rotation axis, which is perpendicular to the transport device and / or a transport plane in which the piece goods are transported, is.

In this way, an opening can be covered by the second Umwicklungselement, which has remained in the first winding operation with the first packaging device.

For this purpose, it would be possible, for example, that the device has a gripping device, which engages the Stückgutzzusammenstellung and rotates at a defined angle. However, such a displacement and in particular turning can also take place in order to then add in a rotated position in a particularly convenient manner more containers to the piece goods compilation. In a further advantageous method, the plurality of piece goods packed with the first wrapping element and / or the plurality of piece goods at least partially connected to the connecting element are supplied with at least two further piece goods. Thus, for example, by the first Umwicklungselement a Stückgutzusam- can be created from six containers and these six containers, for example, two or three more containers can be added. However, it would also be possible to add a second piece set to the first piece set. Thus, it would be possible, for example, for two pieces of goods to be formed by means of the first wrapping element, these subsequently being guided against one another and surrounded by the second wrapping element and in particular the film element.

Also, combinations of the methods described herein are conceivable. Thus, for example, a piece goods compilation could initially be produced by at least partially bonding individual piece goods, these are then wrapped with a film element and then this piece goods compilation are then added at least one more piece goods and then the entire compilation are wrapped again. It would also be possible first of all to produce a piece goods compilation connected at least partially to one another by an adhesive, to add these additional piece goods (in particular loosely) and then to wrap the resulting compilation.

Preferably, these are similar piece goods, such as containers that are filled with the same drink. However, it would also be possible for different piece goods to be involved, for example containers filled with different beverages. Also, it could be piece goods of different types, such as in the case in which a group of containers are still a promotional item, such as a beverage glass or a bottle opener added. In general, in this procedure further piece goods are supplied to the compilation, for example fed laterally. Advantageously, a supply of the other containers takes place on exactly one side wall of the first compilation. However, it would also be possible for containers to be added to the piece-goods compilation both on one and on a second (in particular opposite) side. In addition, it would be possible borrowed that this process is repeated and, for example, the piece goods compilation two containers are supplied, these are then wrapped with the film element and the resulting structure further piece goods are added. In a further preferred method, at least two additional piece goods are aligned parallel to one another and / or the at least two further piece goods are also aligned parallel to the plurality of piece goods. Thus, it is possible, for example, for a plurality of containers to be combined in the first piece-goods compilation and for these to be conveyed upright on a conveyor belt. This compilation can be added, for example, two other containers also standing and thus aligned in parallel.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the plurality of piece goods packed with the first wrapping element, to which another piece goods have already been added, are transported on a carrier such that the at least one piece goods are in contact with the plurality of goods. Thus, it is possible, for example, that the first batch of goods is wrapped in a film and then, as it were outside the film, the other piece goods, in particular containers, are added. Advantageously, that carrier on which piece goods are wrapped is a stationary carrier. Advantageously, this carrier is wrapped by a wrapping device and then the Stückgutzzusammenstellung is pulled down or pushed down by this carrier.

In addition, side guide elements can also be provided which can also be wrapped with and from which the piece goods assembly is subsequently pulled down.

In a further advantageous method, the plurality of piece goods packed with the first wrapping element and / or the plurality of piece goods, which are at least partially connected or packaged with the connecting element, are pushed onto the (in particular stationary) carrier in the transport direction. In this case, more containers can be added, for example in the transport direction behind or before the first piece set compilation, but also laterally or above. This will be explained in more detail with reference to the figures. In a further preferred method, at least a portion of the piece-goods assembly wrapped with the second wrapping element is separated from another portion of the piece-goods combination wrapped with the second wrapping element. This means that in this case a piece goods compilation, in particular a continuously further transported piece goods compilation is formed with a plurality of piece goods, and these are subsequently separated again. Thus, for example, the wrapping films can be subsequently cut again and thus the piece goods compilations can be separated into any desired units. In this separation, for example, a guillotinenartiges separating element, such as knives are used, which moves in a direction perpendicular to the transport direction down direction and thus cuts at least one of the two Umwicklungselemente and in particular the film element. Preferably, this separating element is at least temporarily moved with the piece goods. In this case, this movement of the separating element can be synchronized to the movement of the piece goods.

In a further advantageous method, a plurality of piece goods is positioned such that the second film element substantially completely discharges an opening of the first wrapping element attached to the piece goods. In this case, a total of a Stückgutzzusammenstellung can be formed, which has no direct opening to the environment more. In this case, it is possible to counteract a later fouling of these piece goods compilations.

Advantageously, for example, the second wrapping element or film element can be wound around the piece goods transversely to the transport direction. Here, different transaction types are conceivable. Thus, the first batch of pieces can be a shrink pack, which is rotated, so that the openings or eyes which are systematically produced in this case are also covered. The present invention is further directed to a piece item set comprising a plurality of parcels, wherein the parcels are at least partially in particular containers which are at least partially surrounded by a first Umwicklungselement and which are at least partially surrounded by a second Umwicklungselement, wherein at least the second wrapping element as stretchable re plastic film is executed and wherein the first Umwicklungselement and the second Umwicklungselement at least partially abut each other and wherein the first Umwicklungselement abuts on at least one of the piece goods directly. According to the invention, at least one section of the first wrapping element extends at least in sections between two piece goods and preferably separates them from one another.

In this embodiment, therefore, the first wrapping element is first applied to a first plurality of piece goods and holds them. Subsequently, further containers are added and the entirety is in turn surrounded by the second wrapping element, that is to say the film element. In this way, at least a portion of the first wrapping element is located between one of the originally wrapped containers and one of the newly added containers. Advantageously, this section of the first wrapping element forms a line and / or plane, in particular between the original piece goods and the newly added piece goods.

The present invention is further directed to a piece goods assembly comprising a plurality of piece goods and in particular containers, which are at least partially surrounded by a first Umwicklungselement and which are at least partially surrounded by a second Umwicklungselement, wherein at least the second Umwicklungselement is designed as a stretchable plastic film and wherein the first wrapping element and the second wrapping element bear against each other at least in sections, and wherein the first wrapping element bears directly against at least one of the piece goods.

According to the invention, a first geometric line extending in a radial direction of at least one first piece passes through both sheet elements and at least one second line extending in a radial direction of at least one second piece of this piece goods composition passes only a film element and / or the first wrapping element and the second wrapping element. which is a film element are attached to the cargo such that the cargo is completely enclosed by the entirety of the first film element and the second film element. Additionally or alternatively, it would also be conceivable that each geometric line always penetrates at least two Umwicklungselemente. In this refinement, it would be possible, for example, for two pieces-of-goods assemblies formed by a first wrapping element to be combined again and to be surrounded by a film element. It is also possible here again that the second film element covers an opening and in this case the geometric line penetrates only one Umwicklungselement and in particular film element. In addition, it is also possible that sections of the Umwicklungselemente superimposed, so that both are penetrated. If, as mentioned, the first containers further containers are supplied, is located on these other containers only the second Umwicklungselement.

The present invention is further directed to a Stückgutzzusammenstellung with a variety of cargo and in particular containers, which are at least partially connected by means of a first connecting element (in particular with each other), said first connecting element is an adhesive, which holds together at least two piece goods this Stückgutzzusammenstellung.

According to the invention, the piece goods compilation is at least partially surrounded and in particular wrapped by a second wrapping element. At least in part, it is understood here that the piece goods compilation does not necessarily have to be completely enveloped by the wrapping element.

It is therefore also proposed here that initially a piece goods compilation is held together with a first connecting element, in particular an adhesive, and this combination is additionally wrapped by another Umwickelungselement and in particular a film-like wrapping element. As mentioned above, it is advantageous to connect a plurality of containers or piece goods of this piece item assembly to the connecting element, in particular, and to connect them directly in particular to the connecting element.

At least in the case of the second wrapping element, it is advantageous here again to be a stretchable plastic film. In addition, however, could - as mentioned above - as Umwickelungselement also a band can be used. Advantageously, no section of the Foil element with the connecting means in contact. Advantageously, the connecting means is formed only on such contact surfaces, in which contact two piece goods and in particular containers this piece goods compilation. This is in particular a basic body of the containers. Advantageously, the containers are similar containers in terms of their geometry.

Alternatively, it would also be conceivable that at least two containers are arranged one above the other in their longitudinal directions. Also in this case, the outer walls of the respective wraps can partially lie against each other.

Advantageously, the first plurality of piece goods is a double row supplied variety of piece goods. Advantageously, the entire piece goods compilation with respect to the cargo has at least one axis of symmetry. In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one Umwicklungselement is multi-layered on at least one piece goods. Thus, it would be possible that at least one piece of goods or a piece goods compilation was wrapped several times, for example at least twice. The present invention is further directed to a device for producing a piece-piece assembly. This device has a transport device which transports a plurality of piece goods in a predetermined transport direction. Furthermore, the device has a first packaging device, which affixes a first wrapping element to the plurality of piece goods in such a way that this first wrapping element at least partially surrounds the plurality of piece goods. Furthermore, the device has a second packaging device, which is arranged downstream of the first packaging device, in particular in the transport direction of the piece goods, and which attaches a second wrapping element in the form of a film element to the plurality of piece goods provided with the first wrapping element.

In this case, this second packaging device is suitable and determined to wrap the provided with the first film element plurality of cargo with the second film element. According to the invention, the device has an adjustment device arranged in the transport direction between the first packaging device and the second packaging device, which device adds at least one further piece goods to the plurality of piece goods provided with the first film element. In this embodiment, in turn, it is proposed on the device side that additional containers are added between the two packaging devices of the compilation. These further containers are preferably wrapped only by the second Umwicklungselement, but not of the first Umwicklungselement.

The present invention is further directed to a device for producing a piece goods compilation, which has a transport device which transports a plurality of piece goods in a predetermined transport direction. Furthermore, the device has a first packaging device, which affixes a first wrapping element to the plurality of piece goods in such a way that this first wrapping element at least partially surrounds the plurality of piece goods. Furthermore, a second packaging device is provided, which attaches to the provided with the first Umwicklungselement variety of cargo a second Umwicklungselement in the form of a film element, said second packaging means is suitable and intended, provided with the first Umwicklungselement plurality of cargo with the second Umwicklungselement to wrap.

According to the invention, the device has an adjustment device arranged in the transport direction between the first packaging device and the second packaging device, which changes a geometric position of the first plurality of piece goods with respect to the transport device. Advantageously, this may in turn be a rotating device which rotates the piece goods compilation relative to the transport direction and in particular rotates about an axis which is perpendicular to the transport direction. In addition, it would also be conceivable for the second packaging device to be oriented differently than the first packaging device, so that holes or opened points, which arise during the wrapping with the first wrapping element, can be closed. The present invention is further directed to a device for producing a piece goods compilation, which has a transport device which transports a plurality of piece goods in a predetermined transport direction. Furthermore, the device has a first packaging device, which secures at least two of these packaged goods by means of a connecting element to each other. Furthermore, the device has a second packaging device, which attaches a second, in particular by the connecting element at least partially connected Stückgutzusammenstellung formed especially as a film element and / or belt-like Umwickelungselement, said second packaging means is preferably suitable and determined by the To wrap connecting element at least partially connected plurality of cargo with the second Umwickelungselement and / or to surround.

It is thus also proposed on the device side that initially a piece goods assembly is produced with at least one, advantageously a multiplicity of containers fastened to one another and this is subsequently further processed and, in particular, wrapped with the further wrapping element. Advantageously, the container composition is designed in the manner described above, ie that each outer container of this piece goods compilation is connected to at least two other containers. In this case, it is possible that the first packaging device initially attaches an adhesive to a region of the outer wall of the containers and then supplies further containers at these positions, so that, as a result, at least two containers stick together. In a further advantageous embodiment, the device has a carrier for supporting the piece goods (in particular during a Umwickeins with the first Umwicklungselement), and a removal device which removes the provided with the second Umwicklungselement plurality of cargo from this carrier, wherein the removal means in the Transport direction of the cargo is arranged before or after the packaging device. This removal device may, for example, be a traction unit, which optionally laterally engages a piece goods compilation and withdraws it from the said carrier. Advantageously, the said carrier is also co-wound with at least the second wrapping element. Before- zugt this carrier may be formed as a sliding surface against which the cargo can slide with low friction coefficient.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the transport device conveys the piece goods assembly to at least one of the two packaging devices in such a way that at least one piece of the piece goods assembly is pushed by another piece goods of the piece goods assembly to this packaging device (and pushed onto and / or opposite the carrier). This means that, for example, the foremost containers of the piece goods compilation are pushed by the subsequent ones. In particular, these said piece goods, for example containers, lie directly against one another.

Preferably, the transport device for transporting the containers may have a plurality of transport units, which transport the containers in sections, in particular in the transport direction. For example, these individual transport units can transport the containers from the first packaging device to the second packaging device.

In a further advantageous embodiment, these transport units are synchronized with one another, and at least partially convey the containers at the same transport speed.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the adjustment device has a feed device, which promotes the provided with the first Umwicklungselement piece goods compilation at least one more piece goods. This promotion, as mentioned above, can be perpendicular to the transport direction or obliquely or parallel to the transport direction.

The inventions described here or the inventive aspects described here are each based on the common concept that the piece goods compilation is packaged with two packaging means. In particular, at least in the outer packaging means is a stretchable film, with which the Stückgutzzusammenstellung is wrapped. Further advantages and embodiments will become apparent from the accompanying drawings. Show:

Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of a device for packaging of

Cargo compilations;

Fig. 1 a is a further view of a device for packaging Stückgutzzusammenstellungen;

FIG. 2 is an illustration for illustrating the production of a piece goods package; FIG.

3 shows an illustration of a method for producing a piece goods package with the addition of further containers;

Figs. 4-7c are various illustrations for illustrating the manufacture of wrapped piece goods assemblies;

Fig. 8 is another illustration for illustrating the production of a

Cargo composition;

9 shows a representation for producing a piece goods compilation with containers arranged one above the other;

10 shows a further illustration to illustrate the production of the piece goods compilation with containers arranged one above the other;

Fig. 1 1 is a schematic representation for illustrating the production of

Piece sets without openings;

12-12a further illustrations for the preparation of a piece goods compilation without opening; Fig. 13 is another illustration for illustrating the production of a wrapped package;

Fig. 14-18 representations for producing a Stückgutzzusammenstellung without opening;

FIG. 19 shows a further illustration for producing a piece-goods compilation without openings; FIG.

20-23 further illustrations for the production of Stückgutzzusammenstellungen without openings;

FIG. 24 shows another piece goods compilation, the containers being fastened to one another here by connecting means; FIG. and

FIG. 25 shows four illustrations of the piece goods compilation shown in FIG. 24, which is wrapped with a wrapping element. FIG.

FIG. 1 schematically shows a device 50 for producing a piece-goods compilation 1 and more particularly a schematic plan view of a packaging machine or a section of a packaging machine. The packaging machine is used here for packaging beverage containers 10. These are fed along the transport direction T as article or piece goods stream, here in a two-lane inlet, by means of a first horizontal conveyor 21, which here is a component of a total of 2 designated transport device. This horizontal conveyor 21 may be, for example, a conveyor belt, a mat chain conveyor or the like.

The reference numeral 52 designates a first packaging device in the form of a wrapping device, ie a wrapping module, in which the containers are wrapped with at least one layer of a stretch web foil, a so-called stretch film. In this case, this first packaging device 52 may have a circumferential roller or a circumferential film dispenser, which here in a circular path rotates perpendicular to the plane of the figure around the containers. Unlike shown in Figure 1, but the two rows Containers 10 also brought together so that they are ultimately supported adjacent to each other and wrapped.

The stretch film is wound in a manner known per se in a helical manner around the articles or beverage containers 10 which are conveyed in pairs next to one another, wherein a sufficient tension of the film preferably ensures the firm mechanical cohesion of the article or unit stream.

To ensure trouble-free transport of the article or piece stream in the first packaging device 52, circumferential feed belts (not shown), for example, can laterally engage the flow of articles or pieces of product which conveys the containers 10 through the first packaging device 52, while the Containers 10 are wrapped simultaneously. It is conceivable that an operating speed of the first packaging device and / or the second packaging device with a transport speed of the piece goods is synchronized at least temporarily and preferably constantly.

In the first winding module 52, the containers will usually slide on a lower support or slide plate, which is also wrapped. In the further course of delivery, however, the already wrapped article or Stückgutstrom is drawn over the slide plate, wherein the stretch film applies after leaving this slide plate due to their bias to the bottom of the containers.

The reference numeral 61 denotes a first feed module, which causes the further transport of the here now already wrapped with a layer of film element article and Stückgut- stream. This feed unit may, for example, upper and under feed belts or feed belts, which preferably attack over the length of this first feed module 61 endlessly on the upper and lower sides of the article or Stückgutstroms and so ensure further transport. Here, too, lateral guides can be provided again, which support the flow of articles or piece goods on the left and right and guide them laterally.

The reference numeral 60 roughly identifies a fitting device, which is designed here as a feed device, which adds further piece goods to the piece goods set already wrapped with the first wrapping element. This Guide device may have a transport device which feeds these other products laterally about. It is conceivable that a conveying speed of this further feeding device is synchronized with a transport speed of the transport device, which conveys the containers through the packaging devices 52, 54.

In this way, defined piece goods can be added to each of the packaged goods wrapped with the first wrapping element. In a further advantageous embodiment, this adaptation device 60 may also have a feed device (not shown), which bring the further piece goods close to the piece goods wrapped with the first wrapping element so that they contact the latter and / or the first wrapping element. In this way, can be wrapped again by the subsequent second packaging device very tight-fitting Stückgutzzusammenstellungen. In addition, an adaptation device (not shown) may also be provided for this region, which rotates the piece goods compilations, for example by a defined angle of 90 ° with respect to an axis which is perpendicular to the plane of the figure.

The reference numeral 54 designates a second packaging device, again in the form of a wrapping device, ie a wrapping mode, which in turn winds a second layer of stretch film, in turn, helically around the article or piece goods stream. Advantageously, a winding angle relative to the winding angle of the first wrapping station 52 is changed here. The reference numeral 62 denotes a second feed module, which causes the further transport of the now bundled with several layers of stretch film unit load. For this purpose, in turn, upper and lower feed belts or feed belts can be provided, which preferably circulate endlessly along the length of the second feed module 62 on the upper and lower sides of the article or piece goods flow and ensure its further conveyance to the subsequent second horizontal conveyor 73. In the region of this conveyor 73 and 75 cutting elements may be provided which cut the wrapping film. These cutting elements can move along with the containers at least during a cutting process. The reference numeral 66 indicates a Abtransporteinrichtung which removes the now cut containers or piece goods compartments 1.

FIG. 1 a shows a side view of a device for producing such piece goods compositions. Again, you can see again the transport device 2, which 10 containers initially pushes onto a stationary support plate 32. This means that the containers are pushed by pressure on the carrier 32. The reference numeral 34 denotes lateral guide elements which cause the containers 10 to be tightly wrapped around each other. In the first packaging device 52, the containers 10 are wrapped in such a way that the carrier plate 32 and the side guide element 34 are also wrapped.

The reference numeral 36 identifies further transport means, which further convey the now wrapped containers, that is to say convey them to the right in FIG. 1a. In this way, the piece goods compilations are also deducted again from the carrier 32 and also from the side guide elements 34.

The reference numeral 68 denotes a first cutting element, which cuts off each Stückgutzzusammenstellungen. This can, as shown by the arrow P1, be arranged guillotinenartig in a vertical direction. The piece goods compilations produced in this way are transported into a further wrapping device 54 and can likewise be wrapped there again with a stretch film. The reference numerals 72 and 74 indicate here transport devices, which ensure a feed of the piece goods. Between the first winding module and the second winding module, the Stückgutzzusammenstellungen, as mentioned above, are rotated, but in Figure 1 a about an axis of rotation, which extends in the plane of the figure.

The reference numeral 68 denotes a further cutting element, which in turn serves to cut off the stretch film. About a conveyor belt 82, the so-finished piece goods compilations can be removed.

FIG. 2 shows a rough schematic representation for illustrating the production of piece goods compilations. Finally, as explained in greater detail below, it is possible to first connect a multiplicity of containers 10 into a group and then ßend with a wrapping element 12, such as here to wrap a film. In the following steps, the processing from a single container 10 to a container bundle, which takes place through several wraps, is shown. FIG. 3 illustrates a general manufacturing process. In this case, initially a plurality of containers, which are already surrounded by a first wrapping element 12, fed. The reference numeral 13 indicates an opening which may occur, for example, in a shrinking process. This first compilation of containers 10 are added two more containers 10 (second partial image in Fig. 3). With the second wrapping device (not shown), a film element 14 is attached to this assembly of the first piece goods compilation and the two other containers. This film contracts so that (right part of the picture) a container of six containers is created in the end. This is now a completely wrapped container.

In this case, the film element 12 (and also the film element 14) directly adjoins some of the containers, here on the containers on the left side and on some of the containers only the film element 14, here on the containers on the right side. In some areas, e.g. here at the middle containers are both foil elements.

FIG. 4 indicates a first step for a corresponding production process. Here, four containers or general containers are juxtaposed as an example and wrapped by a first wrapping element, here also a stretch film. A bundle wound or shrunk in this way is produced, as shown in the next drawing, whereby a film eye 13 is systematically formed here, as shown in the right-hand part of the picture.

This container can now, as shown in Figure 5, further processed. As in the illustration shown in FIG. 5, two further containers are brought down to the container shown in the left part of the figure and the entire assembly is again wrapped, as shown in the second partial image from the right. The stretch film in turn lays down (see right drawing) so that a completely wrapped container with six containers is formed. FIG. 5a illustrates another process. In this case, two more containers are brought to the container shown in Figure 5 (right panel) and this compilation is wrapped again. As a result, a container of eight containers is produced (see right-hand part of Fig. 5a), which, however, was wrapped here by three foil elements. It can also be seen here the section 12a of the first wrapping element, here film element, which runs between containers. The process shown in FIG. 5a could still be carried on and, in particular, successively more piece goods could be added to an already existing piece item set. Accordingly, the reference numeral 15 refers to a further film element, which in addition to the film elements 12 and 14, the Stückgutzzusammenstellung wrapped.

The reference L1 denotes a geometric radial line which starts from one of the containers and penetrates both wrapping elements. The reference symbol L2 denotes a further geometric radial line, which starts from a further one of the containers and which penetrates only one of the two wrapping elements.

Figure 6 shows a similar representation as Figure 5, with the difference, however, that here two containers are added above the compilation of the four containers and wrapped in total. Correspondingly, FIG. 6a also shows a representation similar to FIG. 5a, whereby further containers are also added above.

In the situation shown in Figure 7, two bottles are added both above and below the container shown in the left partial image and the entire container wrapped again. The right-hand representation shows a container which is composed of two film elements, namely an inner film element 12, which surrounds four containers, and an outer film element 14, which surrounds all containers.

FIG. 7 a shows a representation in which additional piece goods are added to the piece goods compilation produced in FIG. 7 both above and below (ie from two sides). This entire compilation is again wrapped with a foil element and thus creates a large container with here a total of 12 containers. It is thus proposed that the process according to the invention of adding containers to an already wrapped piece goods compilation can also be repeated several times. FIG. 7b shows a further illustration of a method according to the invention. Here, first two shrunken containers are moved together and these two shrunken containers are then wrapped with a foil. In this way (see right-hand part of the drawing), a container is produced which contains two shrinkage packages which are each surrounded by the second film element as a wrapping film.

FIG. 7c shows a representation similar to FIG. 7b, however, four such shrinkage packages are wound together and in this way (lower part of the figure) a wrapped package of four shrinkage packages is produced.

Figure 8 illustrates a further compilation, wherein the number of containers here can be at least two pieces or more. The above-mentioned containers are, as mentioned above, by wrapping with foil to large packages.

FIG. 9 illustrates a further compilation of containers, wherein here two shrinkage packages are stacked on top of one another and likewise wrapped again with a film. FIG. 10 shows that even an arrangement of a plurality of shrinkage packages can be combined one above the other with a lateral arrangement, so that the large package shown in FIG. 10 is produced.

Figures 1 1 to 23 illustrate the production of containers without openings or eyes. In principle, FIG. 11 illustrates how individual containers 10 can be assembled to form container containers (fully enclosed). It is initially possible, as shown in Figure 12, to produce a container which has an opening or a film eye. This container can then be rotated in front of the second wrapping unit, about 90 °, and then wrapped again. By this second wrapping and the film eye 13 is closed, so that the container is completely closed, as shown in the right part of Figure 12a. FIG. 13 also illustrates the production of such a container. Again, containers are placed next to each other and taken for example in the second field with foil. In the third upper partial image is formed in this way a shrunk or wound container with a film eye 13. This container is now, as shown in the next drawing, rotated by 90 °, and wrapped again. Finally (see the last drawing) a wrapped container is created, which is completely closed.

FIG. 14 shows a combination of the methods presented so far. The starting point here again is a wrapped container which contains six containers here and two film elements 12, 14. This is rotated by 90 ° and wrapped again with a film. Again, a container of six containers, but which is completely closed. This manufacturing process can be used for any type of wrapped containers application. FIG. 15 indicates another possible manufacturing process. Again, a wrapped container is again generated and then a winding film is wound transversely to the machine direction. Here, too, arises (last part of Fig. 15) a wrapped container, which is completely closed. FIG. 16 shows a further illustration of a procedure described. Again, the starting point is again a wrapped container, which is also wrapped here again with a winding film transverse to the machine direction. Also in this case, again a wrapped container, which is completely closed. This manufacturing process can be used for any type of wrapped containers.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 17, initially two shrunk containers or wound containers are made available and juxtaposed. Then they are wrapped in foil, as shown in the last upper part of the picture. This results in a wrapped container (lower part figure left), which is again rotated by 90 ° (second lower part of Fig. 17) and is wrapped with a second film. Again, this creates a wrapped container, which is completely closed and which may have two shrink-wrapped or wrapped inside, for example. FIG. 18 is similar to the illustration shown in FIG. 17, but with no rotation of the package by 90 °, but a second winding transverse to the machine direction. As a result, a wrapped container is formed here, which is completely closed. Figure 19 again illustrates the manufacture of containers which are completely enclosed.

In the representation shown in FIG. 20, or more shrunken or wound packages are stacked on top of one another and again wrapped with a film. Again, there is again a wrapped container, which, however, has a foil eye. This container is, as shown in Figure 21, rotated by 90 ° and wrapped again with foil, so as a result, a wrapped container, which is completely closed, arises.

FIGS. 22a and 22b likewise illustrate the production of a wound package in a similar manner, whereby again no rotation of the packages is carried out, but the second wrapping film is again applied transversely to the machine direction. Again, it should be noted that the shrunken container is first supplied in such a way that, for example, a film eye is forward and so can be wrapped by the second wrapping film.

Finally, FIG. 23 illustrates the production of large containers from a multiplicity of containers arranged one above the other.

Fig. 24 shows a further embodiment of a piece goods compilation. This has here 6 containers, which are connected to each other by means of connecting means 42. These connecting means may in particular be adhesions. During production, splices can be applied to the peripheral walls of individual containers in a targeted manner and glued to these in each case further containers 10. In this way, the containers are not packaged by a surrounding Umwicklungselement here, but each held in pairs in particular. In this way it is already possible to achieve a relatively stable composition. Strictly speaking, this is a variety of connecting means, which preferably hold the containers together in pairs In the illustration shown in FIG. 25a, this piece-goods compilation is now wrapped by second wrapping element 14. It should be noted that these representations in the wrapping element 14 is strictly speaking the only wrapping element. However, the concept of the second wrapping element has been retained for the benefit of consistent terminology. This wrapping element 14 surrounds the piece goods collection position here with respect to an axis that extends horizontally. The transport direction along which the piece goods are transported also runs horizontally here. Nevertheless, a higher stability of the wrapped piece goods compilation can be achieved by the wrapping element 14.

Fig. 25b shows a further illustration of a piece goods compilation. It can be seen here that a connecting element (arrow P2) between the two middle containers was dispensed with. This is possible while maintaining sufficient stability, since this stability is still achieved by the surrounding wrapping element 14.

In the illustration shown in Fig. 25c was dispensed with multiple splices or fasteners. More precisely, here the upper row of piece goods is not glued to the lower row of piece goods. Again, this is still acceptable because of the additional wrap around the desired stability. Finally, in the illustration shown in FIG. 25d, no connection points or connecting elements were attached between each laterally adjacent container pairs.

It can be seen that in addition to the embodiments shown, other combinations are possible. Also several containers could be put together as shown. In addition, further containers could also be added to the piece goods compilations shown in FIGS. 25a-d, and such a compilation could be wrapped again.

In addition, the piece goods compilations shown in FIGS. 25a-d could also be wrapped again with a further wrapping device so as to again obtain completely closed piece goods compilations. In addition, handle elements could also be attached to the piece goods compilations shown in FIGS. 25a-d. The Applicant reserves the right to claim all features disclosed in the application documents as essential to the invention, provided they are novel individually or in combination with respect to the prior art. It is further pointed out that features have also been described in the individual figures, which in themselves can be advantageous. The person skilled in the art immediately recognizes that a particular feature described in one figure can also be advantageous without taking over further features from this figure. Furthermore, the person skilled in the art recognizes that advantages can also result from a combination of several features shown in individual or in different figures.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1 piece assortment

2 transport device

10 beverage containers

12 first wrapping element

13 opening / foil eye

14 foil element

15 additional film element

21 first horizontal conveyor

32 carrier plate / carrier

34 lateral guide elements

36 more transport facilities

42 connecting element

50 device

52 first packaging device / wrapping device

54 second packaging device / wrapping device

60 adjustment device

61 first feed module

62 second feed module

66 removal facility

68 cutting element

72, 74 transport facilities 73, 75 Horizontal conveyor

82 conveyor belt

T transport direction

P1 arrow

Claims

Method and device for forming container assemblies Claims

1 . A method of packaging piece goods assemblies (1), wherein a plurality of piece goods (10) and in particular containers (10) is at least partially connected to each other by means of a first connecting means, for which purpose at least two piece goods of this plurality are directly connected to each other by means of the connecting means (42)

characterized in that

this plurality of piece goods (10) connected by means of the connecting means (42) is packaged with a second connecting means in the form of a second wrapping element (14) and for this purpose the plurality of piece goods connected by a first connecting means are transported to a packaging device (54) by means of a transport device and is surrounded and in particular wrapped by this packaging device (54) with the second wrapping element (14).

2. The method according to claim 1,

characterized in that

the second wrapping element (14) is a particularly extensible film element (14).

3. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that

this wrapping with the second wrapping element takes place around a longitudinal axis defined by a transport direction (T).

4. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that

it is the bonding agent is an adhesive.

5. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that

the connecting means holds together at least two of the piece goods of the piece goods compilation.

6. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that

the connecting means holds together at least two pieces of goods arranged outside with respect to the piece goods compilation.

7. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that

each of the piece goods with respect to the piece goods composition arranged outside cargo is connected by means of the connecting means with at least one further piece goods.

8. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that

the at least partially connected to the connecting means (42) connected plurality of cargo (10) at least one more piece goods (10) is supplied and the combination of the connected to the connecting means (42) plurality of cargo (10) and the at least one further piece goods ( 10) is wrapped with the second wrapping element (14).

9. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that

separating at least a portion of the piece-goods assembly wrapped with the second wrapping element (14) from another portion of the piece-goods package wrapped with the second wrapping element (14).

10. Piece item assembly (1) with a plurality of piece goods (10) and in particular containers (10), which are at least partially connected by means of a first connecting means (42), said first connecting means is an adhesive, the at least two piece goods this Stückgutzzusammenstellung (10 ) the holds

characterized in that

the Stückgutzzusammenstellung is at least partially surrounded by a second Umwicklungselement (14) and in particular wound. Device for producing a piece goods compilation (1) with a transport device (2) which transports a large number of parceled goods (10) in a predetermined transport direction (T), with a first packaging device which directly adjoins at least two of the parceled goods of this piece goods compilation (10) to be produced a connecting means (42), with a downstream in the transport direction of the first packaging means second packaging means (54) which at the at least partially connected by the connecting means plurality of cargo (10) a second, in particular as a film element (14) formed Umwicklungselement (14 ), this second packaging device (54) being particularly suitable and intended to surround and in particular to wrap around the at least partially multiplicity of goods (10) with the second wrapping element (14) with the connecting means (42).