EP3560845B1 - Packaging machine and method for packaging products in plastic packages - Google Patents

Packaging machine and method for packaging products in plastic packages Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3560845B1
EP3560845B1 EP19168882.9A EP19168882A EP3560845B1 EP 3560845 B1 EP3560845 B1 EP 3560845B1 EP 19168882 A EP19168882 A EP 19168882A EP 3560845 B1 EP3560845 B1 EP 3560845B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
valve
line
measuring
gas
reception region
Prior art date
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EP19168882.9A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3560845A1 (en
Inventor
Andreas Mader
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Multivac Sepp Haggenmueller GmbH and Co KG
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Multivac Sepp Haggenmueller GmbH and Co KG
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Publication of EP3560845A1 publication Critical patent/EP3560845A1/en
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B31/00—Packaging articles or materials under special atmospheric or gaseous conditions; Adding propellants to aerosol containers
    • B65B31/02—Filling, closing, or filling and closing, containers or wrappers in chambers maintained under vacuum or superatmospheric pressure or containing a special atmosphere, e.g. of inert gas
    • B65B31/025—Filling, closing, or filling and closing, containers or wrappers in chambers maintained under vacuum or superatmospheric pressure or containing a special atmosphere, e.g. of inert gas specially adapted for rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65B31/028—Filling, closing, or filling and closing, containers or wrappers in chambers maintained under vacuum or superatmospheric pressure or containing a special atmosphere, e.g. of inert gas specially adapted for rigid or semi-rigid containers closed by a lid sealed to the upper rim of the container, e.g. tray-like container
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B55/00—Preserving, protecting or purifying packages or package contents in association with packaging
    • B65B55/02—Sterilising, e.g. of complete packages
    • B65B55/04—Sterilising wrappers or receptacles prior to, or during, packaging
    • B65B55/10—Sterilising wrappers or receptacles prior to, or during, packaging by liquids or gases
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B31/00—Packaging articles or materials under special atmospheric or gaseous conditions; Adding propellants to aerosol containers
    • B65B31/02—Filling, closing, or filling and closing, containers or wrappers in chambers maintained under vacuum or superatmospheric pressure or containing a special atmosphere, e.g. of inert gas
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B31/00—Packaging articles or materials under special atmospheric or gaseous conditions; Adding propellants to aerosol containers
    • B65B31/04—Evacuating, pressurising or gasifying filled containers or wrappers by means of nozzles through which air or other gas, e.g. an inert gas, is withdrawn or supplied

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to packaging machines for packaging products in plastic packaging according to claim 1 or claim 2 as well as methods for measuring the presence of a gas in a sealing station of a packaging machine for receiving a plastic packaging to be closed according to claims 8 or 11.
  • Packaging machines for packaging products in plastic packaging are already sufficiently known from the prior art. Machines are known with which food, such as sausage products or sliced cheese, can be placed in (deep-drawn) plastic packaging and the packaging can then be sealed with the food placed therein. Other applications, for example in the field of pharmaceutical technology, are also known for such machines.
  • the packaging machines comprise sealing stations which comprise a one-part or multi-part sealing tool into which the plastic packaging (with the product introduced) is introduced and then sealed with a film.
  • a gas is usually a sterilizing gas or at least a gas that prevents bacteria from multiplying, such as nitrogen. In principle, this gas is harmless when used in the food industry, but it can contribute to preservation.
  • it is known to evacuate the receiving area so as not to retain any gaseous residues at all in the receiving area while the plastic packaging is being sealed.
  • the EP 1 595 794 describes a device and a method for evacuating a chamber filled with a protective gas, in particular the sealing chamber of a packaging machine, the method comprising evacuating a buffer volume of gas. The concentration of one or more components of the gas is then measured. Alternatively, the chamber is connected to a vacuum source and the concentration of the components in the gas stream flowing to it is measured.
  • Difficulties can arise in determining when exactly the gassing process or the evacuation process of the receiving area is completed.
  • the sensors already used for this which are arranged in measuring lines that are connected to the receiving area, provide an indication of how much oxygen still remains in the receiving area.
  • the means and methods used up to now are imprecise, so that it is only possible to a limited extent to determine the ideal time to end the evacuation process or the fumigation. This is accompanied by an increased exclusion rate for products that have not been adequately fumigated or evacuated.
  • the technical problem to be solved consists in specifying a packaging machine and a method for measuring the presence of a gas in a sealing station of a packaging machine for receiving a plastic packaging to be closed, which enables an accurate determination of the residual amount of undesired gases in the receiving area enable and thus ensure the most exact possible setting of the duration of the gassing or evacuation.
  • connection point is to be understood here as the point at which the measuring line and the receiving area meet and there is a passage from the receiving area into the measuring line.
  • the area of the connection point in which the second shut-off valve is arranged basically comprises any points in the measuring line, the connection point itself also being included. However, this only refers to those points in the measuring line that are arranged upstream of the connecting line in the flow direction of a gas from the receiving area through the measuring line to the vacuum pump, so that when the first shut-off valve and the second shut-off valve are shut off, part of the measuring line and the measuring device is isolated from the rest of the measuring line and in particular from the receiving area and the vacuum pump. According to the invention, however, it is not necessary for the entire length of the measuring line to be isolated from the receiving area and the vacuum pump when the first and second shut-off valves are shut off.
  • This embodiment of the packaging machine allows the targeted evacuation of the measuring line and thus, as soon as the receiving area is evacuated, a reliable measurement of the gas mixture actually still contained in the receiving area.
  • any remaining amount of gas from a last cycle for packaging a plastic package can be effectively removed from the measuring line and the measuring line can be isolated during the gassing process and during the opening of the sealing tool for introducing a package into the receiving area, so that no undesired gas mixture collects in the measuring line, which could falsify the measurement result.
  • connection point and the area of the connection point as described with reference to the first embodiment, also apply to this embodiment.
  • the advantage is that although no vacuum pump is used, targeted gassing and isolation of the measuring line can take place while the sealing station is being opened and while the other components of the sealing station are being gassed. This also makes it possible to ensure that the measured value of the gas remaining in the receiving area is measured as reliably as possible.
  • the first embodiment and the second embodiment are to be understood as alternatives to one another, but allow the solution of the problem formulated above equally for different implementations of the packaging machine.
  • the measuring device is a measuring device for measuring molecular oxygen or comprises such a measuring device. Since oxygen is one of the most relevant gases when it comes to possible contamination of products, one of the most important sources of contamination of products in plastic packaging can be eliminated with this embodiment, which improves the shelf life.
  • the discharge line comprises at least two separate lines which are each connected to the receiving area at different connection points and wherein a valve is arranged in each line.
  • the connection points are preferably different from the connection point of the measuring line with the receiving area, but can also partially coincide. This embodiment advantageously allows evacuation or continuous gassing of different areas of the Receiving area of the sealing station, so that the gassing / evacuation covers the receiving area as completely as possible.
  • the lines coincide at a connection point after the valves and form a common line, the measuring line being connected to the common line via the connecting line. If a vacuum pump is connected to the common line, the complexity of the packaging machine can be reduced. If no vacuum pump is provided, the common line can be open to the environment, for example.
  • a second valve is arranged in the supply line.
  • This valve can be used to specifically open or block the supply line for the gas that is used for the gassing. In this way, the "dead volume" of gassing gas that remains in the supply line after the end of the gassing process can be reduced. Falsification of the result of the value measured by the measuring device can thus be avoided.
  • the sealing station is designed as a two-part sealing tool with an upper tool and a lower tool and the upper tool and the lower tool enclose the receiving area in the closed state. This is a particularly preferred embodiment in terms of design.
  • This embodiment ensures that the measuring line is insulated as completely as possible while the gassing or the opening of the receiving area take place. A falsification of the gas measured in the measuring process by means of the measuring device can thus be avoided as far as possible, which increases the accuracy of the measured result and can advantageously be used to minimize rejects.
  • the method furthermore comprises step k) after step g), step k) comprising processing the value measured by the measuring device and, depending on the measured value, first closing the second shut-off valve and then step b) to g) are executed.
  • step k) comprising processing the value measured by the measuring device and, depending on the measured value, first closing the second shut-off valve and then step b) to g) are executed.
  • the method further comprises step m) after step d) and before step e) and step n) after step e) and before step f), step m) opening a second valve in the supply line and step n) comprises closing the second valve in the supply line.
  • step c) is preferably ended before the first and second shut-off valves are opened, since otherwise the measuring line would be flooded with the gassing gas, which can falsify the measurement.
  • the most accurate possible measurement of the gas remaining in the receiving area can also be implemented for embodiments of packaging machines without a vacuum pump.
  • step c) the pressure within the discharge line remains essentially constant. This can be achieved either by arranging a pump downstream of the receiving area at the end of the discharge line, the throughput of which corresponds to the supply via the supply line, or by having the discharge line open to the atmosphere in some other way. Overpressure, which might be detrimental to the valves, can thus be avoided.
  • the method comprises step o) after step b) and before step c) and step p) after step c) and before step d), step o) opening a second valve in the supply line and Step p) comprises closing the second valve in the supply line.
  • the dead volume of gassing gas in the supply line can be reduced, so that falsification of the result when measuring with the aid of the measuring device can be avoided.
  • the method according to the invention can furthermore include that the plastic packaging is sorted out or further processed as a function of values measured by the measuring device. If, for example, it is determined that the amount of the remaining gas cannot be brought below a certain threshold value, the packaging can be sorted out in order not to pass on any product that may have already been spoiled.
  • the methods include step i), step i) including sealing the plastic packaging in the receiving area and step i) after measuring the gas in the measuring line by means of the measuring device or after closing the first and second Shut-off valve is carried out.
  • step i) including sealing the plastic packaging in the receiving area and step i) after measuring the gas in the measuring line by means of the measuring device or after closing the first and second Shut-off valve is carried out.
  • the figure shows an embodiment of the packaging machine according to the invention.
  • the figure shows part of a packaging machine 100 which comprises at least one sealing station 101.
  • the sealing station is usually designed in such a way that it has a receiving area 111 into which a packaging 160 with the product usually located therein can be introduced and closed with the aid of a suitable sealing tool.
  • the sealing station 101 can be designed in two parts, which is usually implemented in the form of an upper tool 112 and a lower tool 113, the upper tool 112 and the lower tool 113 together including the receiving area 111 in the closed state.
  • the lower tool can essentially have a depression or other recess for receiving the packaging 160, whereas the actual sealing tool with the sealing plate and a possibly necessary heating element is arranged in the upper tool 112.
  • the receiving area 111 is connected to a supply line 120.
  • this supply line can preferably be connected to the lower tool 113.
  • a connection with the upper tool is also conceivable.
  • the lower tool 113 is designed to be immovable and if only the upper tool 112 is moved relative to it, the connection of the supply line to the lower tool 113 is preferred.
  • the receiving area is connected to at least one discharge line 130 at a connection point 135.
  • the discharge line 130 is in turn connected to a vacuum pump 133 and, according to an alternative embodiment of the invention, is open to the atmosphere, for example.
  • the discharge line 130 further includes a first valve 131. This can be controlled, opened and closed, for example, with the aid of a control unit assigned to the packaging machine.
  • further derivation can also be provided, which are connected to the receiving area at different connection points 136.
  • a further derivative 132 can also be connected to the upper tool 112 connected.
  • further leads not shown here, can be provided, which can also be connected to the lower tool 113, for example.
  • all of these discharge lines comprise corresponding valves 134.
  • additional branches 150 of the individual discharge lines can be provided upstream of the valves 131 and 134 in order, for example, to feed the gas that is used in the fumigation to recycling or the like.
  • the receiving area 111 is connected to a measuring line 140 at a connection point 144.
  • the measuring line 140 in turn comprises a measuring device 143 at the end opposite the connection point 144 in order to measure the presence and preferably also the amount of gas in the gas mixture conveyed through the measuring line 140.
  • the measuring device 143 can be a measuring device that is designed to measure the presence and / or the concentration of (molecular) oxygen in a gas mixture.
  • the measuring device can work chemically or preferably optically and ensure that gases are detected as precisely as possible.
  • the measuring line can assume any dimensions compared to the supply line and / or the outlets, it is particularly preferred if the measuring line has the smallest possible diameter, preferably less than 50% of the diameter of the outgoing line 130, particularly preferably less than 5 mm .
  • the connecting line 150 can be dimensioned in such a way that the gases can be discharged from the measuring line as quickly as possible.
  • the connecting line therefore preferably has at least the same diameter as the measuring line or a larger diameter.
  • the measuring line 140 is also connected via a connecting line 150 to a region of the discharge line 130 downstream of the valve 131 in the flow direction of a gas from the supply line 120 to the vacuum pump 133 (or to the atmosphere in embodiments without a vacuum pump).
  • a first shut-off valve 141 is arranged in the connecting line 150.
  • the measuring line is connected to a second shut-off valve 142 in an area around the connection point 144 with the receiving area 111.
  • the second shut-off valve 142 does not have to be located exactly at the connection point 144, but can also be located downstream within the measuring line 140.
  • a second valve 121 which enables the supply line to be shut off, can also be arranged in the supply line 120. In this way, part of the feed line and the receiving area 111 can be isolated from further inflow of the gassing gas.
  • a vacuum pump 133 is arranged at the end of the discharge line 130 or the (common) discharge line 180 or this line is open to the atmosphere, there are two embodiments according to the invention for the method for measuring the in the measuring line or specifically in the Receiving area 111 remaining gases.
  • a vacuum pump is available, the procedure described below is carried out.
  • a plastic packaging 160 to be closed is inserted into the receiving area 111 . This can be done, for example, by moving the upper or lower sealing tool 112, 113 or both in the case of the two-part design of the sealing station in order to open an area through which the packaging can reach the receiving area.
  • a next step b) the valve 131 in the discharge line 130 or the valves in the corresponding discharge lines are opened and the receiving area is evacuated by the vacuum pump via the discharge lines with the opened valves 131 and 134 in a step c).
  • the vacuum pump 133 is turned on. If a desired pressure, for example 0.01 hPa, is reached, the vacuum pump is switched off again. Another event, such as the expiry of a certain period of time, can also be used to regulate the switching off of the vacuum pump.
  • step d) the valve 131 in the discharge line 130 (or all valves in all compartments) is closed. This is followed by gassing the receiving area 111 via the supply line 120 in step e). If a second valve 121 is provided in the supply line, then step e) firstly comprises opening this valve 121 and then, after the gassing has been completed, closing this valve. The opening of the second valve can be interpreted as step m), the closing of the second valve 121 as step n).
  • the second shut-off valve 142 is now opened in a step f) so that the gas can flow out of the receiving area into the measuring line 140.
  • step g) the gas within the measuring line is measured with the aid of the measuring device, as far as it has reached the measuring device.
  • the composition of the entire gas mixture or just specific gases can be measured.
  • the measuring device can be designed as an optical measuring device and can measure molecular oxygen in step g).
  • the measurement is preferably also carried out in a quantity-sensitive manner, so that after the conclusion of step g) it is also known how much of the measured gas is proportionately in the gas mixture or how high the absolute amount of gas in the receiving area 111 is.
  • step h) following step g), the second shut-off valve 142 is closed and the first shut-off valve 141 is opened.
  • the measuring line is evacuated with the aid of the vacuum pump 133 (while the valves 131, 134 are closed) before the first shut-off valve in the connecting line 150 is also closed and the method can start again with step a).
  • step h) and performing step a) again it can be provided that the packaging is now finally sealed in the sealing station and removed from the sealing station before another plastic packaging 160 is introduced into the sealing station.
  • step g) it is first determined whether a certain value for the concentration of a gas in the measuring line has been reached. For example, it can be provided that a maximum value of the oxygen remaining in the receiving area (amount or concentration) is specified and the value measured by the measuring device is used to determine whether this maximum value has been undershot or exceeded. This can be achieved in a simple manner by subtracting the measured value from the limit value. If it is determined that the measured value is above the maximum value, steps b) to g) can be carried out again, whereby, before step b) is carried out, the measuring line is first evacuated again, for example by closing the second shut-off valve and that first shut-off valve is opened. Through the renewed evacuation and gassing cycle of the receiving area the amount of oxygen still present, for example, can be reduced.
  • a certain value for the concentration of a gas in the measuring line has been reached. For example, it can be provided that a maximum value of the oxygen remaining in the receiving area (amount or concentration) is specified and the value measured by the measuring device is used
  • this initially comprises that in a step a), while the valve 130, 134 and the first and second shut-off valves 141, 142 are closed, a plastic packaging 160 to be closed, which is introduced into the receiving area 111.
  • step b) the valve 131, 134 in the discharge line 130, 131 is opened and in the subsequent step c) gassing of the receiving area 111 takes place via the supply line 120.
  • a second valve 121 provision can again be made for a second valve 121 to be opened in the feed line 120 before step c) and to be closed after the end of the gassing.
  • step d) now follows, in which the first and second shut-off valves are opened and, if necessary, gassing continues to take place in the receiving area, so that a gas flow containing a gas mixture occurs through the discharge line and also the first and second shut-off valve, which consists of a mixture of the gas that is used for gassing (for example nitrogen) and the gas mixture originating from the receiving area.
  • the gassing can be ended before the next step e), which comprises measuring the gas in the measuring line by means of the measuring device, in order to reduce a gas flow through the measuring line as much as possible. Since the measurement of the gas in the measurement line will ultimately mean an integration of individual measurement points over time, a falsification due to additional entry of gas can be avoided.
  • step f) The first and second shut-off valves are then closed in step f).
  • step f) and performing step a) again the sealing station 101 can now be opened analogously to the embodiment in the presence of a vacuum pump in order to remove the packaging 160 after sealing and insert a new packaging according to step a).
  • the discharge lines are open to the atmosphere and thus the pressure within the discharge line (and therefore also in the measuring line) remains essentially constant during the gassing. This ensures that the partial pressures of certain gases can be reliably measured with the aid of a suitable measuring device, so that the gas to be measured, for example oxygen, can be reliably determined.
  • step c) can include a second valve 121 in the supply line being opened before the actual gassing and after gassing, which is not necessary after step c), but also only after the step d) may be the case, is closed.
  • both described embodiments have in common that further processing of the plastic packaging can take place depending on the measured value of the measuring device.
  • the gassing and evacuation can be carried out again if the vacuum pump is present.
  • the plastic packaging is not even sealed when the limit value is exceeded, but rather is sorted out.
  • Other methods such as the separate labeling of a corresponding packaging, are also conceivable.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Dispersion Chemistry (AREA)
  • Vacuum Packaging (AREA)

Description

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft Verpackungsmaschinen zum Verpacken von Produkten in Kunststoffverpackungen gemäß Anspruch 1 oder Anspruch 2 sowie Verfahren zum Messen des Vorhandenseins eines Gases in einer Siegelstation einer Verpackungsmaschine zum Aufnehmen einer zu verschließenden Kunststoffverpackung gemäß den Ansprüchen 8 oder 11.The present invention relates to packaging machines for packaging products in plastic packaging according to claim 1 or claim 2 as well as methods for measuring the presence of a gas in a sealing station of a packaging machine for receiving a plastic packaging to be closed according to claims 8 or 11.

Stand der TechnikState of the art

Verpackungsmaschinen zum Verpacken von Produkten in Kunststoffverpackungen sind aus dem Stand der Technik bereits hinreichend bekannt. So sind Maschinen bekannt, mit denen Lebensmittel, wie Wurstwaren oder Schnittkäse, in (tiefgezogene) Kunststoffverpackungen eingebracht und anschließend die Verpackungen mit dem darin eingelegten Lebensmittel versiegelt werden können. Auch andere Anwendungen, beispielsweise im Bereich der Arzneimitteltechnik, sind für solche Maschinen bekannt.Packaging machines for packaging products in plastic packaging are already sufficiently known from the prior art. Machines are known with which food, such as sausage products or sliced cheese, can be placed in (deep-drawn) plastic packaging and the packaging can then be sealed with the food placed therein. Other applications, for example in the field of pharmaceutical technology, are also known for such machines.

Üblicherweise umfassen die Verpackungsmaschinen Siegelstationen, die ein einteiliges oder mehrteiliges Siegelwerkzeug umfassen, in das die Kunststoffverpackung (mit dem eingebrachten Produkt) eingebracht und dann mit einer Folie versiegelt wird. Um zu verhindern, dass unerwünschte Gase, insbesondere Sauerstoff, in der Verpackung verbleiben, nachdem diese versiegelt wurde, ist es bekannt, den Aufnahmebereich in der Siegelstation mit einem Gas zu beaufschlagen (zu begasen). Dieses Gas ist meist ein sterilisierendes Gas oder zumindest ein Gas, was die Vermehrung von Bakterien unterbindet, wie beispielsweise Stickstoff. Dieses Gas ist bei Verwendung in der Lebensmittelindustrie prinzipiell unbedenklich, kann jedoch zur Konservierung beitragen. Alternativ ist bekannt, den Aufnahmebereich zu evakuieren, um nach Möglichkeit überhaupt keine gasförmigen Rückstände in dem Aufnahmebereich zu behalten, während das Versiegeln der Kunststoffverpackung erfolgt.Typically, the packaging machines comprise sealing stations which comprise a one-part or multi-part sealing tool into which the plastic packaging (with the product introduced) is introduced and then sealed with a film. In order to prevent unwanted gases, in particular oxygen, from remaining in the packaging after it has been sealed, it is known to apply a gas to the receiving area in the sealing station. This gas is usually a sterilizing gas or at least a gas that prevents bacteria from multiplying, such as nitrogen. In principle, this gas is harmless when used in the food industry, but it can contribute to preservation. Alternatively, it is known to evacuate the receiving area so as not to retain any gaseous residues at all in the receiving area while the plastic packaging is being sealed.

Die EP 1 595 794 etwa beschreibt eine Vorrichtung und ein Verfahren zum Evakuieren einer mit einem Schutzgas gefüllten Kammer, insbesondere der Siegelkammer einer Verpackungsmaschine, wobei das Verfahren das Evakuieren eines Puffervolumens von Gas umfasst. Die Konzentration einer oder mehrerer Komponenten des Gases wird dann gemessen. Alternativ wird die Kammer an eine Vakuumquelle angeschlossen und die Konzentration der Komponenten in dem zu ihr fließenden Gasstrom gemessen.The EP 1 595 794 describes a device and a method for evacuating a chamber filled with a protective gas, in particular the sealing chamber of a packaging machine, the method comprising evacuating a buffer volume of gas. The concentration of one or more components of the gas is then measured. Alternatively, the chamber is connected to a vacuum source and the concentration of the components in the gas stream flowing to it is measured.

Schwierigkeiten kann es dabei bereiten, zu bestimmen, wann genau der Begasungsvorgang oder der Evakuierungsvorgang des Aufnahmebereichs abgeschlossen ist. Die dafür bereits verwendeten Sensoren, die in Messleitungen, die mit dem Aufnahmebereich verbunden sind, angeordnet sind, liefern zwar einen Hinweis darauf, wie viel Sauerstoff noch in dem Aufnahmebereich verbleibt. Die bisherig eingesetzten Mittel und Verfahren sind jedoch ungenau, so dass es nur bedingt möglich ist, den idealen Zeitpunkt zum Beenden des Evakuierungsvorgangs oder der Begasung zu bestimmen. Damit einher geht eine erhöhte Ausschlussrate für Produkte, die nicht ausreichend begast oder evakuiert wurden.Difficulties can arise in determining when exactly the gassing process or the evacuation process of the receiving area is completed. The sensors already used for this, which are arranged in measuring lines that are connected to the receiving area, provide an indication of how much oxygen still remains in the receiving area. However, the means and methods used up to now are imprecise, so that it is only possible to a limited extent to determine the ideal time to end the evacuation process or the fumigation. This is accompanied by an increased exclusion rate for products that have not been adequately fumigated or evacuated.

Aufgabetask

Ausgehend vom bekannten Stand der Technik besteht die zu lösende technische Aufgabe somit darin, eine Verpackungsmaschine und ein Verfahren zum Messen des Vorhandenseins eines Gases in einer Siegelstation einer Verpackungsmaschine zum Aufnehmen einer zu verschließenden Kunststoffverpackung anzugeben, die eine genaue Bestimmung der Restmenge unerwünschter Gase in dem Aufnahmebereich ermöglichen und damit eine möglichst exakte Einstellung der Dauer der Begasung oder Evakuierung gewährleisten.Based on the known state of the art, the technical problem to be solved consists in specifying a packaging machine and a method for measuring the presence of a gas in a sealing station of a packaging machine for receiving a plastic packaging to be closed, which enables an accurate determination of the residual amount of undesired gases in the receiving area enable and thus ensure the most exact possible setting of the duration of the gassing or evacuation.

Lösungsolution

Diese Aufgabe wird erfindungsgemäß durch die Verpackungsmaschine nach Anspruch 1 bzw. die Verpackungsmaschine nach Anspruch 2 sowie das Verfahren nach Anspruch 8 bzw. das Verfahren nach Anspruch 11 gelöst. Vorteilhafte Weiterbildungen der Erfindung sind in den Unteransprüchen erfasst.This object is achieved according to the invention by the packaging machine according to claim 1 or the packaging machine according to claim 2 and the method according to claim 8 or the method according to claim 11. Advantageous further developments of the invention are covered in the subclaims.

Die erfindungsgemäße Verpackungsmaschine zum Verpacken von Produkten in Kunststoffverpackungen umfasst gemäß einer ersten Ausführungsform

  • wenigstens eine Siegelstation zum Aufnehmen einer zu verschließenden Kunststoffverpackung, wobei die Siegelstation einen Aufnahmebereich innerhalb der Siegelstation aufweist, in den eine Kunststoffverpackung aufgenommen werden kann,
  • eine Zuleitung, mit der ein Gas dem Aufnahmebereich zugeführt werden kann,
  • eine Ableitung, mit der ein Gas aus dem Aufnahmebereich abgeführt werden kann, wobei in der Ableitung ein Ventil angeordnet ist,
  • eine Vakuumpumpe, die mit der Ableitung verbunden ist und über das Ventil der Ableitung Gas aus dem Aufnahmebereich abpumpen kann,
  • eine Messleitung, die mit dem Aufnahmebereich in einem Verbindungspunkt verbunden ist und am vom Aufnahmebereich wegweisenden Ende ein Messgerät umfasst, mit dem ein Gas detektiert werden kann,
und ist dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Messleitung mit der Ableitung in einem Bereich zwischen Ventil und Vakuumpumpe über eine Verbindungsleitung verbunden ist und in der Verbindungsleitung ein erstes Absperrventil angeordnet ist, wobei die Messleitung ein zweites Absperrventil im Bereich des Verbindungspunktes umfasst.The packaging machine according to the invention for packaging products in plastic packaging comprises according to a first embodiment
  • at least one sealing station for receiving a plastic packaging to be closed, the sealing station having a receiving area within the sealing station in which a plastic packaging can be received,
  • a supply line with which a gas can be supplied to the receiving area,
  • a discharge line with which a gas can be discharged from the receiving area, a valve being arranged in the discharge line,
  • a vacuum pump that is connected to the discharge line and can pump gas out of the receiving area via the discharge line valve,
  • a measuring line which is connected to the receiving area at a connection point and at the end pointing away from the receiving area comprises a measuring device with which a gas can be detected,
and is characterized in that the measuring line is connected to the discharge line in an area between the valve and the vacuum pump via a connecting line and a first shut-off valve is arranged in the connecting line, the measuring line comprising a second shut-off valve in the area of the connection point.

Hierin ist der "Verbindungspunkt" als der Punkt zu verstehen, an dem Messleitung und Aufnahmebereich zusammentreffen und ein Durchgang vom Aufnahmebereich in die Messleitung besteht. Der Bereich des Verbindungspunktes, in dem das zweite Absperrventil angeordnet ist, umfasst grundsätzlich beliebige Stellen in der Messleitung, wobei auch der Verbindungspunkt selbst umfasst ist. Darunter sind jedoch nur solche Stellen in der Messleitung zu verstehen, die in Strömungsrichtung eines Gases von dem Aufnahmebereich durch die Messleitung hin zur Vakuumpumpe stromauf der Verbindungsleitung angeordnet sind, so dass, wenn das erste Absperrventil und das zweite Absperrventil abgesperrt sind, ein Teil der Messleitung und das Messgerät von der übrigen Messleitung und insbesondere von dem Aufnahmebereich sowie der Vakuumpumpe isoliert sind. Es ist jedoch erfindungsgemäß nicht erforderlich, dass die gesamte Länge der Messleitung beim Absperren des ersten und zweiten Absperrventils von dem Aufnahmebereich und der Vakuumpumpe isoliert ist.The "connection point" is to be understood here as the point at which the measuring line and the receiving area meet and there is a passage from the receiving area into the measuring line. The area of the connection point in which the second shut-off valve is arranged basically comprises any points in the measuring line, the connection point itself also being included. However, this only refers to those points in the measuring line that are arranged upstream of the connecting line in the flow direction of a gas from the receiving area through the measuring line to the vacuum pump, so that when the first shut-off valve and the second shut-off valve are shut off, part of the measuring line and the measuring device is isolated from the rest of the measuring line and in particular from the receiving area and the vacuum pump. According to the invention, however, it is not necessary for the entire length of the measuring line to be isolated from the receiving area and the vacuum pump when the first and second shut-off valves are shut off.

Diese Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen Verpackungsmaschine erlaubt das gezielte Evakuieren der Messleitung und somit, sobald der Aufnahmebereich evakuiert ist, eine zuverlässige Messung des in dem Aufnahmebereich tatsächlich noch enthaltenen Gasgemisches. In der Tat kann mit dieser Ausführungsform eine etwa verbleibende Restmenge an Gas aus einem letzten Zyklus zum Verpacken einer Kunststoffverpackung effektiv aus der Messleitung entfernt werden und die Messleitung kann während des Begasungsvorgangs und während des Öffnens des Siegelwerkzeugs zum Einbringen einer Verpackung in den Aufnahmebereich isoliert werden, so dass sich in der Messleitung kein unerwünschtes Gasgemisch sammelt, welches das Messergebnis verfälschen könnte.This embodiment of the packaging machine according to the invention allows the targeted evacuation of the measuring line and thus, as soon as the receiving area is evacuated, a reliable measurement of the gas mixture actually still contained in the receiving area. In fact, with this embodiment, any remaining amount of gas from a last cycle for packaging a plastic package can be effectively removed from the measuring line and the measuring line can be isolated during the gassing process and during the opening of the sealing tool for introducing a package into the receiving area, so that no undesired gas mixture collects in the measuring line, which could falsify the measurement result.

In einer dazu alternativen Ausführungsform umfasst die erfindungsgemäße Verpackungsmaschine

  • wenigstens eine Siegelstation zum Aufnehmen einer zu verschließenden Kunststoffverpackung, wobei die Siegelstation einen Aufnahmebereich innerhalb der Siegelstation aufweist, in den eine Kunststoffverpackung aufgenommen werden kann,
  • eine Zuleitung, mit der ein Gas dem Aufnahmebereich zugeführt werden kann,
  • eine Ableitung, mit der ein Gas aus dem Aufnahmebereich abgeführt werden kann, wobei in der Ableitung ein Ventil angeordnet ist,
  • eine Messleitung, die mit dem Aufnahmebereich in einem Verbindungspunkt verbunden ist und am vom Aufnahmebereich wegweisenden Ende ein Messgerät umfasst, mit dem ein Gas detektiert werden kann,
und ist dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Messleitung mit der Ableitung in einem Bereich stromab des Ventils verbunden ist und in der Verbindungsleitung ein erstes Absperrventil angeordnet ist, wobei die Messleitung ein zweites Absperrventil im Bereich des Verbindungspunktes umfasst.In an alternative embodiment to this, the packaging machine according to the invention comprises
  • at least one sealing station for receiving a plastic packaging to be closed, the sealing station having a receiving area within the sealing station in which a plastic packaging can be received,
  • a supply line with which a gas can be supplied to the receiving area,
  • a discharge line with which a gas can be discharged from the receiving area, a valve being arranged in the discharge line,
  • a measuring line which is connected to the receiving area at a connection point and at the end pointing away from the receiving area comprises a measuring device with which a gas can be detected,
and is characterized in that the measuring line is connected to the discharge line in an area downstream of the valve and a first shut-off valve is arranged in the connecting line, the measuring line comprising a second shut-off valve in the area of the connection point.

Die Definitionen hinsichtlich des Verbindungspunktes und des Bereichs des Verbindungspunktes, wie sie mit Bezug auf die erste Ausführungsform beschrieben wurden, gelten auch für diese Ausführungsform. In dieser Ausführungsform liegt der Vorteil darin, dass zwar keine Vakuumpumpe verwendet wird, jedoch ein gezieltes Begasen und Isolieren der Messleitung während des Öffnens der Siegelstation und während des Begasens der übrigen Komponenten der Siegelstation erfolgen kann. Auch hiermit kann realisiert werden, dass der gemessene Wert von in dem Aufnahmebereich verbleibendem Gas möglichst zuverlässig gemessen wird.The definitions with regard to the connection point and the area of the connection point, as described with reference to the first embodiment, also apply to this embodiment. In this embodiment, the advantage is that although no vacuum pump is used, targeted gassing and isolation of the measuring line can take place while the sealing station is being opened and while the other components of the sealing station are being gassed. This also makes it possible to ensure that the measured value of the gas remaining in the receiving area is measured as reliably as possible.

Die erste Ausführungsform und die zweite Ausführungsform sind alternativ zueinander zu verstehen, erlauben jedoch die Lösung der oben formulierten Aufgabe gleichermaßen für unterschiedliche Realisierungen der Verpackungsmaschine.The first embodiment and the second embodiment are to be understood as alternatives to one another, but allow the solution of the problem formulated above equally for different implementations of the packaging machine.

In einer Ausführungsform ist das Messgerät ein Messgerät zum Messen von molekularem Sauerstoff oder umfasst ein solches Messgerät. Da Sauerstoff eines der relevantesten Gase ist, wenn es um die mögliche Kontamination von Produkten geht, kann mit dieser Ausführungsform eine der wichtigsten Quellen für die Kontamination von Produkten in Kunststoffverpackungen beseitigt werden, was die Haltbarkeit verbessert.In one embodiment, the measuring device is a measuring device for measuring molecular oxygen or comprises such a measuring device. Since oxygen is one of the most relevant gases when it comes to possible contamination of products, one of the most important sources of contamination of products in plastic packaging can be eliminated with this embodiment, which improves the shelf life.

Weiterhin kann vorgesehen sein, dass die Ableitung wenigstens zwei separate Leitungen umfasst, die jeweils mit dem Aufnahmebereich an verschiedenen Verbindungspunkten verbunden sind und wobei in jeder Leitung ein Ventil angeordnet ist. Die Verbindungspunkte sind dabei bevorzugt verschieden von dem Verbindungspunkt der Messleitung mit dem Aufnahmebereich, können jedoch auch teilweise zusammenfallen. Diese Ausführungsform erlaubt vorteilhaft das Evakuieren oder kontinuierliche Begasen verschiedener Bereiche des Aufnahmebereichs der Siegelstation, so dass das Begasen/Evakuieren möglichst vollständig den Aufnahmebereich erfasst.Furthermore, it can be provided that the discharge line comprises at least two separate lines which are each connected to the receiving area at different connection points and wherein a valve is arranged in each line. The connection points are preferably different from the connection point of the measuring line with the receiving area, but can also partially coincide. This embodiment advantageously allows evacuation or continuous gassing of different areas of the Receiving area of the sealing station, so that the gassing / evacuation covers the receiving area as completely as possible.

In einer Weiterbildung dieser Ausführungsform ist vorgesehen, dass die Leitungen an einem Verbindungspunkt nach den Ventilen zusammenfallen und eine gemeinsame Leitung bilden, wobei die Messleitung mit der gemeinsamen Leitung über die Verbindungsleitung verbunden ist. Schließt sich eine Vakuumpumpe an die gemeinsame Leitung an, kann die Komplexität der Verpackungsmaschine reduziert werden. Ist keine Vakuumpumpe vorgesehen, kann die gemeinsame Leitung beispielweise zur Umgebung hin offen sein.In a further development of this embodiment it is provided that the lines coincide at a connection point after the valves and form a common line, the measuring line being connected to the common line via the connecting line. If a vacuum pump is connected to the common line, the complexity of the packaging machine can be reduced. If no vacuum pump is provided, the common line can be open to the environment, for example.

Ferner kann vorgesehen sein, dass in der Zuleitung ein zweites Ventil angeordnet ist. Dieses Ventil kann genutzt werden, um die Zuleitung für das Gas, das bei dem Begasen verwendet wird, gezielt zu öffnen oder zu sperren. So kann das "Totvolumen" an Begasungsgas, was nach dem Ende des Begasungsvorgangs noch in der Zuleitung verbleibt, reduziert werden. Ein Verfälschen des Ergebnisses des von dem Messgerät gemessenen Wertes kann so vermieden werden.It can also be provided that a second valve is arranged in the supply line. This valve can be used to specifically open or block the supply line for the gas that is used for the gassing. In this way, the "dead volume" of gassing gas that remains in the supply line after the end of the gassing process can be reduced. Falsification of the result of the value measured by the measuring device can thus be avoided.

Es kann auch vorgesehen sein, dass die Siegelstation als zweiteiliges Siegelwerkzeug mit einem Oberwerkzeug und einem Unterwerkzeug ausgebildet ist und das Oberwerkzeug und das Unterwerkzeug in geschlossenem Zustand den Aufnahmebereich einschließen. Dies ist eine konstruktiv besonders bevorzugte Ausführung.It can also be provided that the sealing station is designed as a two-part sealing tool with an upper tool and a lower tool and the upper tool and the lower tool enclose the receiving area in the closed state. This is a particularly preferred embodiment in terms of design.

Eine erste Variante des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens zum Messen des Vorhandenseins eines Gases in einer Siegelstation einer Verpackungsmaschine zum Aufnehmen einer zu verschließenden Kunststoffverpackung umfasst Folgendes, wobei die Siegelstation einen Aufnahmebereich innerhalb der Siegelstation aufweist, in dem eine Kunststoffverpackung aufgenommen werden kann, wobei die Verpackungsmaschine weiterhin umfasst:

  • eine Zuleitung, mit der ein Gas dem Aufnahmebereich zugeführt werden kann,
  • eine Ableitung, mit der ein Gas aus dem Aufnahmebereich abgeführt werden kann, wobei in der Ableitung ein Ventil angeordnet ist,
  • eine Vakuumpumpe, die mit der Ableitung verbunden ist und über das Ventil der Ableitung Gas aus dem Aufnahmebereich abpumpen kann,
  • eine Messleitung, die mit dem Aufnahmebereich in einem Verbindungspunkt verbunden ist und am vom Aufnahmebereich wegweisenden Ende ein Messgerät umfasst, mit dem ein Gas detektiert werden kann,
  • wobei die Messleitung mit der Ableitung in einem Bereich zwischen Ventil und Vakuumpumpe über eine Verbindungsleitung verbunden ist und in der Verbindungsleitung ein erstes Absperrventil angeordnet ist, wobei die Messleitung ein zweites Absperrventil im Bereich des Verbindungspunktes umfasst;
wobei das Verfahren die folgenden Schritte umfasst:
  1. a) Einbringen einer zu verschließenden Kunststoffverpackung in den Aufnahmebereich, während das Ventil und das erste und zweite Absperrventil geschlossen sind,
  2. b) Öffnen des Ventils in der Ableitung,
  3. c) Evakuieren des Aufnahmebereichs über die Ableitung mittels der Vakuumpumpe,
  4. d) Schließen des Ventils in der Ableitung,
  5. e) Begasen des Aufnahmebereichs über die Zuleitung,
  6. f) Öffnen des zweiten Absperrventils,
  7. g) Messen des Gases in der Messleitung mittels des Messgeräts,
  8. h) Schließen des zweiten Absperrventils und Öffnen des ersten Absperrventils und Evakuieren der Messleitung mittels der Vakuumpumpe.
A first variant of the method according to the invention for measuring the presence of a gas in a sealing station of a packaging machine for receiving a plastic packaging to be closed comprises the following, wherein the sealing station has a receiving area within the sealing station in which a plastic packaging can be received, the packaging machine further comprising:
  • a supply line with which a gas can be supplied to the receiving area,
  • a discharge line with which a gas can be discharged from the receiving area, a valve being arranged in the discharge line,
  • a vacuum pump that is connected to the discharge line and can pump gas out of the receiving area via the discharge line valve,
  • a measuring line which is connected to the receiving area at a connection point and at the end pointing away from the receiving area comprises a measuring device with which a gas can be detected,
  • wherein the measuring line is connected to the discharge line in an area between the valve and the vacuum pump via a connecting line and a first shut-off valve is arranged in the connecting line, the measuring line comprising a second shut-off valve in the area of the connection point;
the method comprising the following steps:
  1. a) Introducing a plastic packaging to be closed into the receiving area while the valve and the first and second shut-off valves are closed,
  2. b) opening the valve in the discharge line,
  3. c) evacuating the receiving area via the discharge using the vacuum pump,
  4. d) closing the valve in the discharge line,
  5. e) Gassing the receiving area via the supply line,
  6. f) opening the second shut-off valve,
  7. g) measuring the gas in the measuring line using the measuring device,
  8. h) Closing the second shut-off valve and opening the first shut-off valve and evacuating the measuring line by means of the vacuum pump.

Durch diese Ausführungsform wird gewährleistet, dass die Messleitung möglichst vollständig isoliert ist, während die Begasung oder das Öffnen des Aufnahmebereichs stattfinden. Eine Verfälschung des im Messprozess gemessenen Gases mittels des Messgerätes kann so möglichst vermieden werden, was die Genauigkeit des gemessenen Ergebnisses erhöht und vorteilhaft genutzt werden kann, um den Ausschuss zu minimieren.This embodiment ensures that the measuring line is insulated as completely as possible while the gassing or the opening of the receiving area take place. A falsification of the gas measured in the measuring process by means of the measuring device can thus be avoided as far as possible, which increases the accuracy of the measured result and can advantageously be used to minimize rejects.

In einer Ausführungsform ist vorgesehen, dass das Verfahren weiterhin den Schritt k) nach Schritt g) umfasst, wobei Schritt k) ein Verarbeiten des von dem Messgerät gemessenen Wertes umfasst und abhängig von dem gemessenen Wert erst das zweite Absperrventil geschlossen und anschließend die Schritte b) bis g) ausgeführt werden. Diese Ausführungsform ist besonders vorteilhaft, weil hiermit eine nochmalige Evakuierung des Aufnahmebereichs erfolgt, womit eventuell unabsichtlich verbliebenes Gas aus dem Aufnahmebereich entfernt werden kann. Der Ausschuss kann damit vorteilhaft minimiert werden.In one embodiment it is provided that the method furthermore comprises step k) after step g), step k) comprising processing the value measured by the measuring device and, depending on the measured value, first closing the second shut-off valve and then step b) to g) are executed. This embodiment is particularly advantageous because it enables the receiving area to be evacuated again occurs, with which any unintentional remaining gas can be removed from the receiving area. The scrap can thus be advantageously minimized.

Ferner kann vorgesehen sein, dass das Verfahren weiterhin den Schritt m) nach Schritt d) und vor Schritt e) und den Schritt n) nach Schritt e) und vor Schritt f) umfasst, wobei Schritt m) ein Öffnen eines zweiten Ventils in der Zuleitung und Schritt n) ein Schließen des zweiten Ventils in der Zuleitung umfasst. Damit wird das genaue Ende des Begasungsvorgangs definiert und unabsichtlich über die Zuleitungen in den Aufnahmebereich und damit gegebenenfalls in die Messleitung eingebrachtes Gas kann vermieden werden.Furthermore, it can be provided that the method further comprises step m) after step d) and before step e) and step n) after step e) and before step f), step m) opening a second valve in the supply line and step n) comprises closing the second valve in the supply line. The exact end of the gassing process is thus defined and inadvertent gas introduced via the supply lines into the receiving area and thus possibly into the measuring line can be avoided.

Weiterhin ist erfindungsgemäß ein Verfahren zum Messen des Vorhandenseins eines Gases in einer Siegelstation einer Verpackungsmaschine zum Aufnehmen einer zu verschließenden Kunststoffverpackung, wobei die Siegelstation einen Aufnahmebereich innerhalb der Siegelstation aufweist, in den eine Kunststoffverpackung aufgenommen werden kann, vorgesehen, wobei die Verpackungsmaschine weiterhin umfasst:

  • einer Zuleitung, mit der ein Gas dem Aufnahmebereich zugeführt werden kann,
  • einer Ableitung, mit der ein Gas aus dem Aufnahmebereich abgeführt werden kann, wobei in der Ableitung ein Ventil angeordnet ist,
  • einer Messleitung, die mit dem Aufnahmebereich in einem Verbindungspunkt verbunden ist und am vom Aufnahmebereich wegweisenden Ende ein Messgerät umfasst, mit dem ein Gas detektiert werden kann,
wobei die Messleitung mit der Ableitung in einem Bereich stromab des Ventils über eine Verbindungsleitung verbunden ist und in der Verbindungsleitung ein erstes Absperrventil angeordnet ist, wobei die Messleitung ein zweites Absperrventil im Bereich des Verbindungspunktes umfasst;
wobei das Verfahren die folgenden Schritte umfasst:
  1. a) Einbringen einer zu verschließenden Kunststoffverpackung in den Aufnahmebereich, während das Ventil und das erste und zweite Absperrventil geschlossen sind,
  2. b) Öffnen des Ventils in der Ableitung,
  3. c) Begasen des Aufnahmebereichs über die Zuleitung,
  4. d) Öffnen des ersten und zweiten Absperrventils,
  5. e) Messen des Gases in der Messleitung mittels des Messgeräts,
  6. f) Schließen des ersten und zweiten Absperrventils.
Furthermore, the invention provides a method for measuring the presence of a gas in a sealing station of a packaging machine for receiving a plastic packaging to be closed, the sealing station having a receiving area within the sealing station in which a plastic packaging can be received, the packaging machine further comprising:
  • a supply line with which a gas can be supplied to the receiving area,
  • a discharge line with which a gas can be discharged from the receiving area, a valve being arranged in the discharge line,
  • a measuring line which is connected to the receiving area at a connection point and at the end pointing away from the receiving area includes a measuring device with which a gas can be detected,
wherein the measuring line is connected to the discharge line in an area downstream of the valve via a connecting line and a first shut-off valve is arranged in the connecting line, the measuring line comprising a second shut-off valve in the area of the connection point;
the method comprising the following steps:
  1. a) Introducing a plastic packaging to be closed into the receiving area while the valve and the first and second shut-off valves are closed,
  2. b) opening the valve in the discharge line,
  3. c) Gassing the receiving area via the supply line,
  4. d) opening the first and second shut-off valve,
  5. e) measuring the gas in the measuring line using the measuring device,
  6. f) closing the first and second shut-off valve.

Es versteht sich, dass bevorzugt der Schritt c) beendet wird, bevor das erste und zweite Absperrventil geöffnet werden, da ansonsten die Messleitung mit dem Begasungsgas überflutet werden würde, was die Messung verfälschen kann. Mit diesem Verfahren kann auch für Ausführungsformen von Verpackungsmaschinen ohne Vakuumpumpe eine möglichst genaue Messung des in dem Aufnahmebereich verbleibenden Gases realisiert werden.It goes without saying that step c) is preferably ended before the first and second shut-off valves are opened, since otherwise the measuring line would be flooded with the gassing gas, which can falsify the measurement. With this method, the most accurate possible measurement of the gas remaining in the receiving area can also be implemented for embodiments of packaging machines without a vacuum pump.

In einer Ausführungsform dieses Verfahrens ist vorgesehen, dass während Schritt c) der Druck innerhalb der Ableitung im Wesentlichen konstant bleibt. Dies kann entweder realisiert werden, indem eine Pumpe stromab des Aufnahmebereichs am Ende der Ableitung angeordnet wird, deren Durchsatz der Zufuhr über die Zuleitung entspricht, oder indem die Ableitung in anderer Weise zur Atmosphäre hin offen ist. Ein Überdruck, der eventuell nachteilig für die Ventile wäre, kann so vermieden werden.In one embodiment of this method it is provided that during step c) the pressure within the discharge line remains essentially constant. This can be achieved either by arranging a pump downstream of the receiving area at the end of the discharge line, the throughput of which corresponds to the supply via the supply line, or by having the discharge line open to the atmosphere in some other way. Overpressure, which might be detrimental to the valves, can thus be avoided.

Weiterhin kann vorgesehen sein, dass das Verfahren den Schritt o) nach Schritt b) und vor Schritt c) und den Schritt p) nach Schritt c) und vor Schritt d) umfasst, wobei Schritt o) ein Öffnen eines zweiten Ventils in der Zuleitung und Schritt p) ein Schließen des zweiten Ventils in der Zuleitung umfasst. Wie bereits mit Hinblick auf die erste Ausführungsform des Verfahrens beschrieben, kann so das Totvolumen von Begasungsgas in der Zuleitung reduziert werden, womit eine Verfälschung des Ergebnisses beim Messen mit Hilfe des Messgeräts vermieden werden kann.Furthermore, it can be provided that the method comprises step o) after step b) and before step c) and step p) after step c) and before step d), step o) opening a second valve in the supply line and Step p) comprises closing the second valve in the supply line. As already described with regard to the first embodiment of the method, the dead volume of gassing gas in the supply line can be reduced, so that falsification of the result when measuring with the aid of the measuring device can be avoided.

Die erfindungsgemäßen Verfahren können weiterhin umfassen, dass abhängig von durch das Messgerät gemessenen Werten die Kunststoffverpackung aussortiert oder weiterbearbeitet wird. Wird beispielsweise festgestellt, dass die Menge des verbleibenden Gases nicht unter einen bestimmten Schwellenwert gebracht werden kann, kann die Verpackung aussortiert werden, um kein gegebenenfalls bereits verdorbenes Produkt weiter zu vermitteln.The method according to the invention can furthermore include that the plastic packaging is sorted out or further processed as a function of values measured by the measuring device. If, for example, it is determined that the amount of the remaining gas cannot be brought below a certain threshold value, the packaging can be sorted out in order not to pass on any product that may have already been spoiled.

Weiterhin kann vorgesehen sein, dass die Verfahren den Schritt i) umfassen, wobei der Schritt i) ein Versiegeln der Kunststoffverpackung in dem Aufnahmebereich umfasst und Schritt i) nach dem Messen des Gases in der Messleitung mittels des Messgeräts oder nach dem Schließen des ersten und zweiten Absperrventils durchgeführt wird. Damit kann das Versiegeln der Verpackung unter kontrollierten Bedingungen ablaufen und die vom Messgerät gemessene Menge Gas befindet sich mit hoher Wahrscheinlichkeit ebenfalls in der nun versiegelten Verpackung.Furthermore, it can be provided that the methods include step i), step i) including sealing the plastic packaging in the receiving area and step i) after measuring the gas in the measuring line by means of the measuring device or after closing the first and second Shut-off valve is carried out. This means that the packaging can be sealed under controlled conditions, and that by the measuring device The measured amount of gas is very likely also in the now sealed packaging.

Kurze Beschreibung der FigurenBrief description of the figures

Die Figur zeigt eine Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen Verpackungsmaschine.The figure shows an embodiment of the packaging machine according to the invention.

Ausführliche BeschreibungDetailed description

In der Figur ist ein Teil einer Verpackungsmaschine 100 dargestellt, die zumindest eine Siegelstation 101 umfasst. Die Siegelstation ist üblicherweise so ausgebildet, dass sie einen Aufnahmebereich 111 aufweist, in den eine Verpackung 160 mit üblicherweise darin befindlichem Produkt eingebracht und mit Hilfe eines geeigneten Siegelwerkzeugs verschlossen werden kann. Dazu kann die Siegelstation 101 zweiteilig ausgebildet sein, was üblicherweise in Form eines Oberwerkzeugs 112 und eines Unterwerkzeugs 113 realisiert wird, wobei das Oberwerkzeug 112 und das Unterwerkzeug 113 zusammen im geschlossenen Zustand den Aufnahmebereich 111 einschließen. Dabei kann das Unterwerkzeug im Wesentlichen eine Mulde oder andere Vertiefung zum Aufnehmen der Verpackung 160 aufweisen, wohingegen im Oberwerkzeug 112 das eigentliche Siegelwerkzeug mit der Siegelplatte und einem gegebenenfalls notwendigen Heizelement angeordnet sind.The figure shows part of a packaging machine 100 which comprises at least one sealing station 101. The sealing station is usually designed in such a way that it has a receiving area 111 into which a packaging 160 with the product usually located therein can be introduced and closed with the aid of a suitable sealing tool. For this purpose, the sealing station 101 can be designed in two parts, which is usually implemented in the form of an upper tool 112 and a lower tool 113, the upper tool 112 and the lower tool 113 together including the receiving area 111 in the closed state. The lower tool can essentially have a depression or other recess for receiving the packaging 160, whereas the actual sealing tool with the sealing plate and a possibly necessary heating element is arranged in the upper tool 112.

Erfindungsgemäß ist der Aufnahmebereich 111 mit einer Zuleitung 120 verbunden. Diese Zuleitung kann, bei Aufteilung der Siegelstation 101 in ein Oberwerkzeug 112 und ein Unterwerkzeug 113, bevorzugt mit dem Unterwerkzeug 113 verbunden sein. Eine Verbindung mit dem Oberwerkzeug ist jedoch ebenfalls denkbar. Ist das Unterwerkzeug 113 unbeweglich ausgebildet und wird lediglich das Oberwerkzeug 112 relativ dazu bewegt, ist die Verbindung der Zuleitung mit dem Unterwerkzeug 113 bevorzugt.According to the invention, the receiving area 111 is connected to a supply line 120. If the sealing station 101 is divided into an upper tool 112 and a lower tool 113, this supply line can preferably be connected to the lower tool 113. However, a connection with the upper tool is also conceivable. If the lower tool 113 is designed to be immovable and if only the upper tool 112 is moved relative to it, the connection of the supply line to the lower tool 113 is preferred.

Weiterhin ist der Aufnahmebereich mit wenigstens einer Ableitung 130 in einem Verbindungspunkt 135 verbunden. Die Ableitung 130 wiederum ist gemäß einer Ausführungsform mit einer Vakuumpumpe 133 verbunden und gemäß einer alternativen Ausführungsform der Erfindung beispielsweise zur Atmosphäre hin geöffnet. Die Ableitung 130 umfasst ferner ein erstes Ventil 131. Dieses kann beispielsweise mit Hilfe einer der Verpackungsmaschine zugeordneten Steuereinheit angesteuert, geöffnet und geschlossen werden.Furthermore, the receiving area is connected to at least one discharge line 130 at a connection point 135. According to one embodiment, the discharge line 130 is in turn connected to a vacuum pump 133 and, according to an alternative embodiment of the invention, is open to the atmosphere, for example. The discharge line 130 further includes a first valve 131. This can be controlled, opened and closed, for example, with the aid of a control unit assigned to the packaging machine.

Zusätzlich zu der ersten beschriebenen Ableitung 130 können auch weitere Ableitungen vorgesehen sein, die an verschiedenen Verbindungspunkten 136 mit dem Aufnahmebereich verbunden sind. Beispielsweise kann eine weitere Ableitung 132 ebenfalls mit dem Oberwerkzeug 112 verbunden sein. Alternativ oder zusätzlich können auch weitere, hier nicht dargestellte Ableitungen vorgesehen sein, die beispielsweise auch mit dem Unterwerkzeug 113 verbunden sein können.In addition to the first derivation 130 described, further derivation can also be provided, which are connected to the receiving area at different connection points 136. For example, a further derivative 132 can also be connected to the upper tool 112 connected. As an alternative or in addition, further leads, not shown here, can be provided, which can also be connected to the lower tool 113, for example.

Erfindungsgemäß umfassen in jedem Fall alle diese Ableitungen entsprechende Ventile 134.According to the invention, in any case, all of these discharge lines comprise corresponding valves 134.

Von den einzelnen Ableitungen können, neben der weiterführenden Leitung 180, stromauf der Ventile 131 und 134 zusätzliche Abzweigungen 150 vorgesehen sein, um beispielsweise das Gas, das bei der Begasung verwendet wird, einem Recycling oder Ähnlichem zuzuführen.In addition to the continuing line 180, additional branches 150 of the individual discharge lines can be provided upstream of the valves 131 and 134 in order, for example, to feed the gas that is used in the fumigation to recycling or the like.

Weiterhin ist erfindungsgemäß vorgesehen, dass der Aufnahmebereich 111 an einem Verbindungspunkt 144 mit einer Messleitung 140 verbunden ist. Die Messleitung 140 wiederum umfasst an dem Verbindungspunkt 144 gegenüberliegenden Ende ein Messgerät 143, um das Vorhandensein und bevorzugt auch die Menge von Gas in dem durch die Messleitung 140 beförderten Gasgemisch zu messen. Beispielsweise kann es sich bei dem Messgerät 143 um ein Messgerät handeln, das ausgebildet ist, das Vorhandensein und/oder die Konzentration von (molekularem) Sauerstoff in einem Gasgemisch zu messen. Dabei kann das Messgerät chemisch oder bevorzugt optisch arbeiten und ein möglichst genaues Detektieren von Gasen gewährleisten.Furthermore, it is provided according to the invention that the receiving area 111 is connected to a measuring line 140 at a connection point 144. The measuring line 140 in turn comprises a measuring device 143 at the end opposite the connection point 144 in order to measure the presence and preferably also the amount of gas in the gas mixture conveyed through the measuring line 140. For example, the measuring device 143 can be a measuring device that is designed to measure the presence and / or the concentration of (molecular) oxygen in a gas mixture. The measuring device can work chemically or preferably optically and ensure that gases are detected as precisely as possible.

Während die Messleitung, verglichen mit der Zuleitung und/oder den Ableitungen, beliebige Abmessungen annehmen kann, ist es besonders bevorzugt, wenn die Messleitung einen möglichst geringen Durchmesser aufweist, bevorzugt weniger als 50 % des Durchmessers der Ableitung 130, besonders bevorzugt weniger als 5 mm. Die Verbindungsleitung 150 hingegen kann so dimensioniert sein, dass ein möglichst schnelles Abführen der Gase aus der Messleitung möglich ist. Die Verbindungsleitung besitzt daher bevorzugt wenigstens den gleichen Durchmesser wie die Messleitung oder einen größeren Durchmesser.While the measuring line can assume any dimensions compared to the supply line and / or the outlets, it is particularly preferred if the measuring line has the smallest possible diameter, preferably less than 50% of the diameter of the outgoing line 130, particularly preferably less than 5 mm . The connecting line 150, on the other hand, can be dimensioned in such a way that the gases can be discharged from the measuring line as quickly as possible. The connecting line therefore preferably has at least the same diameter as the measuring line or a larger diameter.

Die Messleitung 140 ist ferner über eine Verbindungsleitung 150 mit einem Bereich der Ableitung 130 stromab des Ventils 131 in Strömungsrichtung eines Gases von der Zuleitung 120 zur hier optional dargestellten Vakuumpumpe 133 (bzw. zur Atmosphäre in Ausführungsformen ohne Vakuumpumpe) verbunden. In der Verbindungsleitung 150 ist ein erstes Absperrventil 141 angeordnet. Zusätzlich ist die Messleitung mit einem zweiten Absperrventil 142 in einem Bereich um den Verbindungspunkt 144 mit dem Aufnahmebereich 111 verbunden. Dabei muss das zweite Absperrventil 142 sich nicht exakt am Verbindungspunkt 144 befinden, sondern kann sich auch stromab innerhalb der Messleitung 140 befinden. In jedem Fall ist es jedoch so in der Messleitung angeordnet, dass, wenn die Absperrventile 141 und 142 geschlossen sind, ein Bereich der Messleitung 140 zusammen mit dem Messgerät 143 und einem Teil der Verbindungsleitung 150 vom übrigen Aufnahmebereich 111 und der Ableitung 131, bzw. der Leitung 180 isoliert ist.The measuring line 140 is also connected via a connecting line 150 to a region of the discharge line 130 downstream of the valve 131 in the flow direction of a gas from the supply line 120 to the vacuum pump 133 (or to the atmosphere in embodiments without a vacuum pump). A first shut-off valve 141 is arranged in the connecting line 150. In addition, the measuring line is connected to a second shut-off valve 142 in an area around the connection point 144 with the receiving area 111. The second shut-off valve 142 does not have to be located exactly at the connection point 144, but can also be located downstream within the measuring line 140. In each In this case, however, it is arranged in the measuring line that when the shut-off valves 141 and 142 are closed, an area of the measuring line 140 together with the measuring device 143 and part of the connecting line 150 from the remaining receiving area 111 and the discharge line 131 or the line 180 is isolated.

In der Zuleitung 120 kann weiterhin ein zweites Ventil 121 angeordnet sein, das ein Absperren der Zuleitung ermöglicht. So können ein Teil der Zuleitung und der Aufnahmebereich 111 von weiterem Zufluss des Begasungsgases isoliert werden.A second valve 121, which enables the supply line to be shut off, can also be arranged in the supply line 120. In this way, part of the feed line and the receiving area 111 can be isolated from further inflow of the gassing gas.

Abhängig davon, ob am Ende der Ableitung 130 bzw. der (gemeinsamen) Ableitung 180 eine Vakuumpumpe 133 angeordnet ist oder diese Leitung zur Atmosphäre hin geöffnet sind, ergeben sich zwei erfindungsgemäße Ausführungen für die Verfahren zum Messen der in der Messleitung bzw. gezielt in dem Aufnahmebereich 111 verbleibenden Gase.Depending on whether a vacuum pump 133 is arranged at the end of the discharge line 130 or the (common) discharge line 180 or this line is open to the atmosphere, there are two embodiments according to the invention for the method for measuring the in the measuring line or specifically in the Receiving area 111 remaining gases.

Ist eine Vakuumpumpe vorhanden, so wird das im Folgenden beschriebene Verfahren durchgeführt. In einem ersten Schritt a), während die Ventile 131, 134 in den Ableitungen 130, 132 sowie das erste und zweite Absperrventil 141, 142 in der Messleitung 140 bzw. der Verbindungsleitung geschlossen sind, wird eine zu verschließende Kunststoffverpackung 160 in den Aufnahmebereich 111 eingeführt. Dies kann beispielsweise geschehen, indem bei zweiteiliger Ausführung der Siegelstation das obere oder untere Siegelwerkzeug 112, 113 oder beide bewegt werden, um einen Bereich zu öffnen, durch den die Verpackung in den Aufnahmebereich gelangen kann.If a vacuum pump is available, the procedure described below is carried out. In a first step a), while the valves 131, 134 in the discharge lines 130, 132 and the first and second shut-off valves 141, 142 in the measuring line 140 or the connecting line are closed, a plastic packaging 160 to be closed is inserted into the receiving area 111 . This can be done, for example, by moving the upper or lower sealing tool 112, 113 or both in the case of the two-part design of the sealing station in order to open an area through which the packaging can reach the receiving area.

In einem nächsten Schritt b) wird das Ventil 131 in der Ableitung 130 bzw. die Ventile in den entsprechenden Ableitungen geöffnet und durch die Vakuumpumpe der Aufnahmebereich über die Ableitungen mit den geöffneten Ventilen 131 und 134 in einem Schritt c) evakuiert. Dazu wird die Vakuumpumpe 133 angestellt. Ist ein gewünschter Druck, beispielsweise 0,01 hPa, erreicht, wird die Vakuumpumpe erneut abgestellt. Auch ein anderes Ereignis, wie beispielsweise der Ablauf einer bestimmten Zeitspanne, kann genutzt werden, um das Abschalten der Vakuumpumpe zu regulieren.In a next step b) the valve 131 in the discharge line 130 or the valves in the corresponding discharge lines are opened and the receiving area is evacuated by the vacuum pump via the discharge lines with the opened valves 131 and 134 in a step c). For this purpose, the vacuum pump 133 is turned on. If a desired pressure, for example 0.01 hPa, is reached, the vacuum pump is switched off again. Another event, such as the expiry of a certain period of time, can also be used to regulate the switching off of the vacuum pump.

Im nächsten Schritt d) wird das Ventil 131 in der Ableitung 130 (oder alle Ventile in allen Abteilungen) geschlossen. Daran schließt sich ein Begasen des Aufnahmebereichs 111 über die Zuleitung 120 im Schritt e) an. Ist in der Zuleitung ein zweites Ventil 121 vorgesehen, so umfasst der Schritt e) zunächst das Öffnen dieses Ventils 121 und anschließend, nachdem das Begasen abgeschlossen ist, das Schließen dieses Ventils. Das Öffnen des zweiten Ventils kann als Schritt m), das Schließen des zweiten Ventils 121 als Schritt n) aufgefasst werden.In the next step d) the valve 131 in the discharge line 130 (or all valves in all compartments) is closed. This is followed by gassing the receiving area 111 via the supply line 120 in step e). If a second valve 121 is provided in the supply line, then step e) firstly comprises opening this valve 121 and then, after the gassing has been completed, closing this valve. The opening of the second valve can be interpreted as step m), the closing of the second valve 121 as step n).

Nach dem Begasen wird in einem Schritt f) nun das zweite Absperrventil 142 geöffnet, so dass das Gas aus dem Aufnahmebereich in die Messleitung 140 einströmen kann. Daraufhin wird im Schritt g) mit Hilfe des Messgeräts das Gas innerhalb der Messleitung gemessen, soweit es das Messgerät erreicht hat. Dabei kann die Zusammensetzung des gesamten Gasgemisches oder nur gezielt nach bestimmten Gasen gemessen werden. Beispielsweise kann das Messgerät als optisches Messgerät ausgebildet sein und im Schritt g) molekularen Sauerstoff messen. Die Messung erfolgt bevorzugt auch mengensensitiv, so dass nach Abschluss des Schrittes g) auch bekannt ist, wie viel des gemessenen Gases sich anteilig in dem Gasgemisch befindet oder wie hoch die absolute Menge des Gases im Aufnahmebereich 111 ist.After the gassing, the second shut-off valve 142 is now opened in a step f) so that the gas can flow out of the receiving area into the measuring line 140. Then in step g) the gas within the measuring line is measured with the aid of the measuring device, as far as it has reached the measuring device. The composition of the entire gas mixture or just specific gases can be measured. For example, the measuring device can be designed as an optical measuring device and can measure molecular oxygen in step g). The measurement is preferably also carried out in a quantity-sensitive manner, so that after the conclusion of step g) it is also known how much of the measured gas is proportionately in the gas mixture or how high the absolute amount of gas in the receiving area 111 is.

In einem sich an den Schritt g) anschließenden Schritt h) wird das zweite Absperrventil 142 geschlossen und das erste Absperrventil 141 geöffnet. Damit wird dann durch Einschalten der Vakuumpumpe die Messleitung mit Hilfe der Vakuumpumpe 133 evakuiert (während die Ventile 131, 134 geschlossen sind), bevor auch das erste Absperrventil in der Verbindungsleitung 150 geschlossen wird und das Verfahren mit Schritt a) erneut beginnen kann.In a step h) following step g), the second shut-off valve 142 is closed and the first shut-off valve 141 is opened. In this way, by switching on the vacuum pump, the measuring line is evacuated with the aid of the vacuum pump 133 (while the valves 131, 134 are closed) before the first shut-off valve in the connecting line 150 is also closed and the method can start again with step a).

Zwischen dem Schritt h) und dem erneuten Durchführen des Schrittes a) kann vorgesehen sein, dass die Verpackung in der Siegelstation nun final versiegelt und aus der Siegelstation entfernt wird, bevor eine weitere Kunststoffverpackung 160 in die Siegelstation eingebracht wird.Between step h) and performing step a) again, it can be provided that the packaging is now finally sealed in the sealing station and removed from the sealing station before another plastic packaging 160 is introduced into the sealing station.

In einer Ausführungsform kann weiterhin vorgesehen sein, dass nach Schritt g) zunächst festgestellt wird, ob ein bestimmter Wert der Konzentration eines Gases in der Messleitung erreicht wurde. Beispielsweise kann vorgesehen sein, dass ein Maximalwert des in dem Aufnahmebereich verbleibenden Sauerstoffs (Menge oder Konzentration) vorgegeben ist und anhand des durch das Messgerät gemessenen Wertes festgestellt wird, ob dieser Maximalwert unterschritten oder überschritten wurde. Dies kann auf einfache Weise durch Subtraktion des gemessenen Wertes vom Grenzwert erreicht werden. Wird festgestellt, dass der gemessene Wert über dem Maximalwert liegt, können die Schritte b) bis g) erneut ausgeführt werden, wobei, bevor der Schritt b) ausgeführt wird, zunächst die Messleitung erneut evakuiert wird, beispielsweise indem das zweite Absperrventil geschlossen wird und das erste Absperrventil geöffnet wird. Durch den erneuten Evakuierungs- und Begasungszyklus des Aufnahmebereichs kann die Menge an beispielsweise noch enthaltenem Sauerstoff reduziert werden.In one embodiment it can further be provided that after step g) it is first determined whether a certain value for the concentration of a gas in the measuring line has been reached. For example, it can be provided that a maximum value of the oxygen remaining in the receiving area (amount or concentration) is specified and the value measured by the measuring device is used to determine whether this maximum value has been undershot or exceeded. This can be achieved in a simple manner by subtracting the measured value from the limit value. If it is determined that the measured value is above the maximum value, steps b) to g) can be carried out again, whereby, before step b) is carried out, the measuring line is first evacuated again, for example by closing the second shut-off valve and that first shut-off valve is opened. Through the renewed evacuation and gassing cycle of the receiving area the amount of oxygen still present, for example, can be reduced.

Ist in bzw. am Ende der Ableitungen 130 keine Vakuumpumpe vorgesehen, so wird ein zum ebenen beschriebenen Verfahren alternatives Verfahren durchgeführt.If no vacuum pump is provided in or at the end of the discharge lines 130, an alternative method to the method just described is carried out.

Dieses umfasst zunächst analog zu dem bisher beschriebenen Verfahren, dass in einem Schritt a), während das Ventil 130, 134 und das erste und zweite Absperrventil 141, 142 geschlossen sind, eine zu verschließende Kunststoffverpackung 160, die in den Aufnahmebereich 111 eingebracht wird.Analogous to the previously described method, this initially comprises that in a step a), while the valve 130, 134 and the first and second shut-off valves 141, 142 are closed, a plastic packaging 160 to be closed, which is introduced into the receiving area 111.

Anschließend wird im Schritt b) das Ventil 131, 134 in der Ableitung 130, 131 geöffnet und im sich daran anschließenden Schritt c) findet eine Begasung des Aufnahmebereichs 111 über die Zuleitung 120 statt. Auch hier kann erneut vorgesehen sein, dass zunächst ein zweites Ventil 121 vor Schritt c) in der Zuleitung 120 geöffnet und nach Beenden des Begasens geschlossen wird.Then in step b) the valve 131, 134 in the discharge line 130, 131 is opened and in the subsequent step c) gassing of the receiving area 111 takes place via the supply line 120. Here, too, provision can again be made for a second valve 121 to be opened in the feed line 120 before step c) and to be closed after the end of the gassing.

Im Unterschied zu der ersten Ausführungsform bei Vorhandensein einer Vakuumpumpe wird jedoch das Ventil nach Schritt c) nicht unbedingt oder notwendigerweise geschlossen. Es schließt sich nun ein Schritt d) an, bei dem das erste und zweite Absperrventil geöffnet werden und ggf. weiterhin ein Begasen des Aufnahmebereichs erfolgt, so dass durch die Ableitung und auch das erste und zweite Absperrventil eine Gasströmung erfolgt, die ein Gasgemisch enthält, das eine Mischung aus dem Gas, das zur Begasung verwendet wird (beispielsweise Stickstoff) und dem aus dem Aufnahmebereich entstammenden Gasgemisch besteht.In contrast to the first embodiment, however, when a vacuum pump is present, the valve is not necessarily or necessarily closed after step c). A step d) now follows, in which the first and second shut-off valves are opened and, if necessary, gassing continues to take place in the receiving area, so that a gas flow containing a gas mixture occurs through the discharge line and also the first and second shut-off valve, which consists of a mixture of the gas that is used for gassing (for example nitrogen) and the gas mixture originating from the receiving area.

Das Begasen kann vor dem nächsten Schritt e), der das Messen des Gases in der Messleitung mittels des Messgerätes umfasst, beendet werden, um eine Gasströmung durch die Messleitung möglichst zu reduzieren. Da die Messung des Gases in der Messleitung letztlich eine zeitliche Integration einzelner Messpunkte bedeuten wird, kann so eine Verfälschung durch zusätzlichen Eintrag von Gas vermieden werden.The gassing can be ended before the next step e), which comprises measuring the gas in the measuring line by means of the measuring device, in order to reduce a gas flow through the measuring line as much as possible. Since the measurement of the gas in the measurement line will ultimately mean an integration of individual measurement points over time, a falsification due to additional entry of gas can be avoided.

Anschließend werden das erste und zweite Absperrventil im Schritt f) geschlossen. Zwischen Schritt f) und dem erneuten Durchführen des Schrittes a) kann analog zur Ausführungsform bei Anwesenheit einer Vakuumpumpe nun ein Öffnen der Siegelstation 101 erfolgen, um die Verpackung 160 nach dem Versiegeln zu entnehmen und eine neue Verpackung gemäß dem Schritt a) einfügen.The first and second shut-off valves are then closed in step f). Between step f) and performing step a) again, the sealing station 101 can now be opened analogously to the embodiment in the presence of a vacuum pump in order to remove the packaging 160 after sealing and insert a new packaging according to step a).

Es kann vorgesehen sein, dass die Ableitungen zur Atmosphäre hin offen sind und somit während des Begasens der Druck innerhalb der Ableitung (und daher auch in der Messleitung) im Wesentlichen konstant bleibt. Dies sorgt dafür, dass eine zuverlässige Messung der Partialdrücke bestimmter Gase mit Hilfe eines geeigneten Messgeräts möglich ist, so dass die Bestimmung des zu messenden Gases, beispielsweise Sauerstoff zuverlässig erfolgen kann.It can be provided that the discharge lines are open to the atmosphere and thus the pressure within the discharge line (and therefore also in the measuring line) remains essentially constant during the gassing. This ensures that the partial pressures of certain gases can be reliably measured with the aid of a suitable measuring device, so that the gas to be measured, for example oxygen, can be reliably determined.

Analog zu dem Vorgehen beim Vorhandensein einer Vakuumpumpe kann der Schritt c) umfassen, dass vor dem eigentlichen Begasen ein zweites Ventil 121 in der Zuleitung geöffnet wird und nach dem Begasen, was nicht notwendig bereits nach dem Schritt c), sondern auch erst nach dem Schritt d) der Fall sein kann, geschlossen wird.Analogous to the procedure in the presence of a vacuum pump, step c) can include a second valve 121 in the supply line being opened before the actual gassing and after gassing, which is not necessary after step c), but also only after the step d) may be the case, is closed.

Beiden beschriebenen Ausführungsformen ist gemein, dass eine weitere Verarbeitung der Kunststoffverpackung abhängig von dem Messwert des Messgeräts erfolgen kann. Wie bereits beschrieben, kann beispielsweise bei Überschreiten eines bestimmten Grenzwertes für die Menge oder Konzentration des verbleibenden Gases im Aufnahmebereich bei Vorhandensein der Vakuumpumpe das Begasen und Evakuieren erneut durchgeführt werden. Es ist jedoch auch vorstellbar, dass anstelle des nochmaligen Begasens und gegebenenfalls Evakuieren die Kunststoffverpackung gar nicht erst versiegelt wird, wenn der Grenzwert überschritten, sondern aussortiert wird. Auch andere Verfahren, wie beispielsweise das gesonderte Kennzeichnen einer entsprechenden Verpackung sind denkbar.Both described embodiments have in common that further processing of the plastic packaging can take place depending on the measured value of the measuring device. As already described, if a certain limit value for the amount or concentration of the remaining gas in the receiving area is exceeded, for example, the gassing and evacuation can be carried out again if the vacuum pump is present. However, it is also conceivable that instead of repeated gassing and, if necessary, evacuation, the plastic packaging is not even sealed when the limit value is exceeded, but rather is sorted out. Other methods, such as the separate labeling of a corresponding packaging, are also conceivable.

Claims (15)

  1. Packaging machine (100) for packaging products in plastic packaging (160), with
    - at least one sealing station (101) for receiving a plastic packaging (160) to be sealed, where said sealing station comprises a reception region (111) within said sealing station in which a plastic packaging (160) can be received,
    - a supply line (120) with which a gas can be supplied to said reception region (111),
    - a discharge line (130, 132) with which a gas can be discharged from said reception region (111), where a valve (131, 134) is disposed in said discharge line,
    - a vacuum pump (133) which is connected to said discharge line (130, 132) and can pump gas out of said reception region (111) via said valve (131, 134) of said discharge line,
    - a measuring line (140) which is connected to said reception region (111) at a connection point (144) and at the end facing away from said reception region comprises a measuring device (143) with which a gas can be detected,
    characterized in that said measuring line (140) is connected to said discharge line in a region between said valve and said vacuum pump via a connecting line (150) and a first shut-off valve (141) is disposed in said connecting line, where said measuring line comprises a second shut-off valve (142) in the region of said connection point (144).
  2. Packaging machine (100) for packaging products in plastic packaging (160), with
    - at least one sealing station (101) for receiving a plastic packaging (160) to be sealed, where said sealing station comprises a reception region (111) within said sealing station in which a plastic packaging (160) can be received,
    - a supply line (120) with which a gas can be supplied to said reception region (111),
    - a discharge line (130, 132) with which a gas can be discharged from said reception region (111), where a valve (132, 134) is disposed in said discharge line,
    - a measuring line (140) which is connected to said reception region (111) at a connection point (144) and at the end facing away from said reception region comprises a measuring device (143) with which a gas can be detected,
    characterized in that said measuring line (140) is connected to said discharge line in a region downstream of said valve (150), and a first shut-off valve (141) is disposed in said connecting line, where said measuring line comprises a second shut-off valve (142) in the region of said connection point.
  3. Packaging machine (100) according to claim 1, where said measuring device (143) is or comprises a measuring device for measuring molecular oxygen.
  4. Packaging machine (100) according to one of the claims 1 to 3, where said discharge line comprises at least two separate lines (130, 132) which are each connected to said reception region (111) at different connection points (135, 136) and where a valve (131, 134) is disposed in each line.
  5. Packaging machine (100) according to claim 4, where said two separate lines (130, 132) coincide at a connection point downstream of said valves (131, 134) and form a common line (180), where said measuring line (140) is connected to said common line via said connecting line (150).
  6. Packaging machine (100) according to one of the claims 1 to 5, where a second valve (121) is disposed in said supply line (120).
  7. Packaging machine (100) according to one of the claims 1 to 6, where said sealing station (101) is configured as a two-part sealing tool with an upper tool (112) and a lower tool (113) and where said upper tool and said lower tool in the closed state surround said reception region (111).
  8. Method for measuring the presence of a gas in a sealing station of a packaging machine (100) for receiving a plastic packaging (160) to be sealed, where said sealing station comprises a reception region within said sealing station in which a plastic packaging (160) can be received, where said packaging machine (100) further comprises:
    - a supply line (120) with which a gas can be supplied to said reception region (111),
    - a discharge line (130, 132) with which a gas can be discharged from said reception region (111), where a valve (131, 134) is disposed in said discharge line,
    - a vacuum pump (133) which is connected to said discharge line and can pump gas out of said reception region via said valve of said discharge line,
    - a measuring line (140) which is connected to said reception region (111) at a connection point (144) and at the end facing away from said reception region comprises a measuring device (143) with which a gas can be detected,
    and where said measuring line (140) is connected to said discharge line in a region between said valve and said vacuum pump via a connecting line (150), and a first shut-off valve (141) is disposed in said connecting line, where said measuring line comprises a second shut-off valve (142) in the region of said connection point (144);
    said method comprising the steps of:
    a) introducing a plastic packaging (160) to be sealed into said reception region (111) while said valve and said first and said second shut-off valve (141, 142) are closed,
    b) opening said valve (131) in said discharge line (130),
    c) evacuating said reception region (111) via said discharge line using said vacuum pump (133),
    d) closing said valve in said discharge line (130),
    e) gas-flushing said reception region (111) via said supply line (120),
    f) opening said second shut-off valve (142),
    g) measuring the gas in said measuring line (140) using said measuring device (143),
    h) closing said second shut-off valve (142) and opening said first shut-off valve (141) and evacuating said measuring line (140) using said vacuum pump (133).
  9. Method according to claim 8, further comprising step k) after step g), where step k) comprises processing the value measured by said measuring device (143) and, depending on the value measured, said second shut-off valve (142) is closed first and steps b) to g) are performed thereafter.
  10. Method according to claim 8 or 9, further comprising step m) after step d) and prior to step e), as well as step n) after step e) and prior to step f), where step m) comprises opening a second valve (121) in said supply line (120) and step n) closing said second valve in said supply line.
  11. Method for measuring the presence of a gas in a sealing station of a packaging machine (100) for receiving a plastic packaging to be sealed, where said sealing station comprises a reception region (111) within said sealing station in which a plastic packaging (160) can be received, where said packaging machine (100) further comprises:
    - a supply line (120) with which a gas can be supplied to said reception region (111),
    - a discharge line (130) with which a gas can be discharged from said reception region (111), where a valve (131) is disposed in said discharge line,
    - a measuring line (140) which is connected to said reception region (111) at a connection point (144) and at the end facing away from said reception region comprises a measuring device (143) with which a gas can be detected,
    and where said measuring line (140) is connected to said discharge line in a region downstream of said valve via a connecting line (150), and a first shut-off valve (141) is disposed in said connecting line, where said measuring line comprises a second shut-off valve (142) in the region of said connection point (150);
    said method comprising the steps of:
    a) introducing a plastic packaging (160) to be sealed into said reception region (111) while said valve (131) and said first and said second shut-off valve (141, 142) are closed,
    b) opening said valve (131) in said discharge line (130),
    c) gas-flushing said reception region (111) via said supply line (120),
    d) opening said first and said second shut-off valve (141, 142),
    e) measuring the gas in said measuring line (140) using said measuring device (143),
    f) closing said first and said second shut-off valve (141, 142).
  12. Method according to claim 11, where the pressure within said discharge line (130) remains substantially constant during step c).
  13. Method according to claim 11 or 12, further comprising step o) after step b) and prior to step c), as well as step p) after step c) and prior to step d), where step o) comprises opening a second valve (121) in said supply line (120) and step p) closing said second valve in said supply line.
  14. Method according to one of the claims 8 to 13, wherein said plastic packaging (160) is rejected or further processed depending on said value measured by said measuring device (143).
  15. Method according to one of the claims 8 to 14, further comprising step i), where step i) comprises sealing said plastic packaging (160) in said reception region (111) and step i) is performed after measuring the gas in said measuring line (140) using said measuring device (143) or after closing said first and said second shut-off valve (141, 142).
EP19168882.9A 2018-04-27 2019-04-12 Packaging machine and method for packaging products in plastic packages Active EP3560845B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

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DE102018110227.5A DE102018110227A1 (en) 2018-04-27 2018-04-27 Packaging machine for packaging products in plastic packaging

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EP3560845A1 EP3560845A1 (en) 2019-10-30
EP3560845B1 true EP3560845B1 (en) 2020-11-11

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US (1) US11040795B2 (en)
EP (1) EP3560845B1 (en)
CN (1) CN110406721B (en)
DE (1) DE102018110227A1 (en)
ES (1) ES2850076T3 (en)

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DE102018110227A1 (en) * 2018-04-27 2019-10-31 Multivac Sepp Haggenmüller Se & Co. Kg Packaging machine for packaging products in plastic packaging

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DE102018110227A1 (en) 2019-10-31
CN110406721B (en) 2021-04-09
US20190329923A1 (en) 2019-10-31
EP3560845A1 (en) 2019-10-30
ES2850076T3 (en) 2021-08-25
US11040795B2 (en) 2021-06-22
CN110406721A (en) 2019-11-05

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