US20140366488A1 - Device and method for shrinking a shrink film onto a stack of goods - Google Patents
Device and method for shrinking a shrink film onto a stack of goods Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20140366488A1 US20140366488A1 US14/375,096 US201314375096A US2014366488A1 US 20140366488 A1 US20140366488 A1 US 20140366488A1 US 201314375096 A US201314375096 A US 201314375096A US 2014366488 A1 US2014366488 A1 US 2014366488A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- stack
- objects
- cover plate
- shrink
- frame
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 55
- 229920006300 shrink film Polymers 0.000 title abstract description 6
- 239000007789 gas Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 52
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 13
- 238000006073 displacement reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 9
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000005096 rolling process Methods 0.000 claims 2
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000011248 coating agent Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000001276 controlling effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000005265 energy consumption Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000002441 reversible effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000004809 Teflon Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920006362 Teflon® Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005485 electric heating Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000005611 electricity Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002349 favourable effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000011888 foil Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001105 regulatory effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000630 rising effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005549 size reduction Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- 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
- B65B53/00—Shrinking wrappers, containers, or container covers during or after packaging
- B65B53/02—Shrinking wrappers, containers, or container covers during or after packaging by heat
-
- 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
- B65B59/00—Arrangements to enable machines to handle articles of different sizes, to produce packages of different sizes, to vary the contents of packages, to handle different types of packaging material, or to give access for cleaning or maintenance purposes
- B65B59/001—Arrangements to enable adjustments related to the product to be packaged
-
- 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
- B65B53/00—Shrinking wrappers, containers, or container covers during or after packaging
- B65B53/02—Shrinking wrappers, containers, or container covers during or after packaging by heat
- B65B53/06—Shrinking wrappers, containers, or container covers during or after packaging by heat supplied by gases, e.g. hot-air jets
- B65B53/066—Mobile frames, hoods, posts or the like
-
- 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
- B65B59/00—Arrangements to enable machines to handle articles of different sizes, to produce packages of different sizes, to vary the contents of packages, to handle different types of packaging material, or to give access for cleaning or maintenance purposes
Definitions
- the invention relates to an apparatus for shrink-fitting a film onto a stack of objects with a shrink frame that can be moved over the stack of objects and that surrounds the stack of objects during shrink-fitting of the shrink film.
- the invention further relates to a method for shrink-fitting a film onto a stack of objects.
- stack of objects refers in particular to a plurality of packages, parcels, bags, or units of this kind that are advantageously stacked in a parallepipedal stack of objects. It is within the scope of the invention that the stack of objects is carried on a pallet. However, stacks of objects without a pallet can also be used. Basically, the stack of objects can also consist of a few stacked objects, or a single larger unit, for example, from the white objects sector (washers, refrigerators, dishwashers and the like. It is further within the scope of the invention, that the film is a film made of plastic that can be shrunk onto the stack of objects under the influence of heat.
- the units stacked in the stack of objects are firmly held together and in particular, are secured against slipping and the like.
- the film can be placed onto the stack of objects in the form of a package band, or can be pulled over the stack of objects in the form of a tube or a hood. Subsequently, the shrink-fitting of the film takes place under the action of heat.
- shrink frames known in the art that surround the stack of objects and are displaced vertically along the stack of objects, and thereby heat the film according to the vertical position of the shrink frame.
- the heating is done by way of heaters or burners distributed around the periphery of the shrink frame that are electrically or gas powered.
- the thermal energy released to the film can be controlled corresponding to the spacing of the burner from the stack of objects and by controlling the energy output of the burners and the vertical speed of the shrink frame.
- shrink frames of different dimensions can be held ready on the one hand, and for the shrinking process, the shrink frame that comes closest to the corresponding dimensions of the stack of objects is the one selected.
- shrink frames with movable shrink strips can also be used to adapt the spacing of the burners to the respective dimensions of the stack of objects.
- this type of method is relatively complex because in the case of a size reduction of the shrink frame, the burners have to be turned off segmentally, and because many mobile components are used. This is primarily a problem if the components are gas fired.
- closed shrink ovens are known in the art where the film is usually shrunk onto the stack of objects with the aid of a circulating air system for heat distribution.
- these shrink ovens have the considerable disadvantage that the targeted heat supply for an optimal shrink-fitting of the film onto the different areas of the stack of objects is not possible.
- the shrink frames have proven to be significantly more effective.
- the object of the invention to further improve the already existing efficiency of a shrink frame, and in particular, to provide an energy-saving apparatus and an energy-saving method for shrinking-fitting a film.
- This object is attained in an apparatus for shrink-fitting a film onto a stack of objects where a shrink frame is provided that can be moved over the stack of objects and that surrounds the stack of objects during the shrinking-fitting of the film, wherein
- the cover plate can be displaced vertically to the top face of the stack of objects and vertically away from the top face of the stack of objects.
- the cover plate can be displaced vertically in the frame with little play with respect to the side walls.
- the gap between the cover plate and side walls is sealed by at least one sealing element or by at least one flexible sealing element.
- rigid side walls form a rigid frame that is open upward toward the cover plate, and the cover plate can be moved vertically within the frame or between side walls of the frame. It is within the scope of the invention that with a lower end of the rigid frame is fastened to the shrink frame. With a parallepipedal stack of objects, the rigid frame is advantageously formed as a cubic box that is open at the top. The cover plate can then telescope into the frame or the cuboidal box.
- a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the frame, in particular the rigid frame, can be suspended from the cover plate, and that when thus suspended the frame can be moved with the cover plate.
- the suspended frame is entrained by the cover plate.
- the cover plate and the side walls are then joined together to form a box, and this box moves as a whole over the stack of objects.
- the side walls or the frame with upper cover segments are combined to form a box, and in the suspended state of the frame or the box from the cover plate, the cover segments rest on the cover plate.
- a first partial frame or box, and a second partial frame or box are provided, the first partial frame or box, engages, or can engage, in the second partial frame or box, and the cover plate in the first partial frame or box, and/or in the second partial frame or box, can be moved toward the stack of objects, or away from the stack of objects. Based on this displaceability of the cover plate, the height of the space V between the cover plate and stack of objects is adjusted.
- the first partial box forms an inner box so to speak and the second partial box forms an outer box, and these two partial boxes are configured to telescope.
- the first partial box and the second partial box are of the same height. The first partial box can engage completely or partially within the second partial box.
- the second partial box can be moved downward, or vertically downward so that the first partial box projects from the second partial box at least partially.
- the second partial box is fixed by its lower end to the shrink frame. It is recommended that the second partial box can be moved with the shrink frame, particularly downward, or vertically downward.
- the invention further teaches an apparatus for shrink-fitting a film onto a stack of objects with a shrink frame that can be moved over the stack of objects and that surrounds the stack of objects during the shrinking-fitting of the film, wherein
- the shrink frame is provided with a plurality of heaters distributed around its periphery for heating the film during the shrinking process
- a cover plate covering the stack of objects is provided that in particular is spaced from a top face of the stack of objects during the shrinking process,
- the side walls are made of a flexible material so that during upward movement of the shrink frame, they can be rolled off winders on the cover plate, in accordance with the progression of the downward movement of the shrink frame.
- the flexible side walls can also be rolled up again.
- the side walls are advantageously made of a fire-proof, or heat-resistant flexible material. It is recommended that the winders are connected to or fixed on the top face of the cover plate facing away from the stack of objects. The space between the cover plate and top face of the stack of objects can be easily adjusted, subject to the progression of the shrink progress and to the height of the stack of objects.
- the invention further teaches an apparatus for shrink-fitting a film onto a stack of objects with a shrink frame that can be moved over the stack of objects and that surrounds the stack of objects during the shrink-fitting of the film, wherein
- the shrink frame is provided with a plurality of heaters distributed around its periphery for heating the film during the shrinking process
- a cover plate covering the stack of objects is provided that in particular is spaced from the top face of the stack of objects during the shrinking process,
- side walls are provided extending along the stack of objects, or along the side faces of the stack of objects, and wherein between the stack of objects, or between the side faces of the stack of objects and the side walls, clearances are formed for the heated gases flowing to the cover plate, or flowing upward, and
- the inner shell formed by the side walls and the cover plate is enclosed by an outer shell with upper outer plate and outer side walls such that the heated gases emerging from the cover plate can flow into the clearances formed between the inner shell and the outer shell to the shrink frame, or particularly, vertically downward to the shrink frame.
- energy savings are achieved on the one hand in that the heated gases flowing through the clearances between the side walls and the stack of objects as well as through the space between the cover plate and the top face of the stack of objects can effectively preheat the film for the shrinking process.
- the heat escaping with the heated gases from the cover plate is recirculated to the shrink frame and thus, excess heat is utilized to further reduce energy consumption.
- the output of the heaters, or the burners of the shrink frame can be further reduced, that is to say, correspondingly to the temperature of the recirculated heated gases, or the recirculated heated air.
- both the side walls of the inner shell and the outer side walls of the outer shell are flexible and preferably as fire-proof, or heat-resistant walls. It is then possible that with the aid of winders, both the flexible side walls and the flexible outer side walls can be rolled off the winders, or onto the winders, with corresponding movements of the components. In this way, the height of the space above the stack of objects can be adjusted in accordance with the shrink progression and the height of the stack of objects.
- the inner shell and/or the outer shell can also be provided with rigid side walls/outer side walls and preferably, the cover plate can then be vertically moved in the rigid frame from the rigid side walls. If need be, the inner shell and/or the outer shell can also be cooled.
- a special embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the side walls of the inner shell and/or the side walls of the outer shell are designed in a bellows-like manner.
- the inner shell and/or the outer shell can then be folded in the form of a sleeve in the manner of a concertina if the cover plate, or the upper outer plate is displaced vertically downward, or toward the top face of the stack of objects.
- the inner shell and/or the outer shell can be unfolded in the manner of a concertina if the cover plate, or the upper outer plate is moved in the opposite direction.
- the cover plate can also be moved to the top face of the stack of objects and away from the top face of the stack of objects.
- the cover plate covering the stack of objects is provided with at least one outlet port for releasing heat generated during the shrinking process, or for releasing heated gases generated during the shrinking process, in particular heated air.
- the at least one outlet port or the at least one upper outlet port could also be provided in the upper area of a side wall. It is within the scope of the invention that the outlet port can be closed by a closing element, for example, a throttle valve. However, in principle, the invention could also be used entirely without outlet port, or upper outlet port.
- the invention is based on the realization that with the apparatus according to the invention, an effective preheating of the film adhering to the side faces of the stack of objects, and also a film segment located on the top face of the stack of objects is possible. It is within the scope of the invention that during the shrinking process, the shrink frame is moved from a lower area of the stack of objects or the pallet toward the top face of the stack of objects. Due to the preheated film segments at the side faces and/or on the top face of the stack of objects according to the invention, the output of the heaters or the burners can be reduced and in this way energy can be effectively saved. According to the invention, the heaters or the burners can be readjusted subject to extend of the preheating of the film segments by the heated gases.
- the heaters are preferably burners that are powered by electricity or gas.
- a shrink frame with electric heating according to EP 0 386 530 1 [U.S. Pat. No. 5,511,528] is used. It is within the scope of the invention that the film is a film made of plastic that is capable of shrinking if subjected to heat.
- the side walls are provided between the shrink frame and the cover plate.
- the side walls spaced from the side faces of the stack of objects form a closed shell that completely encloses the side faces of the stack of objects.
- a parallepipedal stack of objects is provided with the shrink foil.
- four side walls are then provided that are cubically arranged with rectangular or square cross-sections. It is recommended that the side walls project above the top face of the stack of objects. It is preferred that at least in the operating state during the shrink-fitting of the film, the side walls project upward to the cover plate. It is advantageous that the side walls are made of a heat-resistant, or fire-proof material. According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the side walls, or the lower ends of the side walls are fixed to the shrink frame.
- the cover plate projects above the edges, or rims of the top face of the stack of objects.
- the cover plate is parallel, or essentially parallel, to the top face of the stack of objects. It is within the scope of the invention that at least during shrink-fitting of the film onto the side faces of the stack of objects, the cover plate is spaced from the top face of the stack of objects.
- the cover plate can be moved vertically toward the top face of the stack of objects and vertically away from the top face of the stack of objects. It is recommended that the cover plate can be displaced relative to the side walls. Advantageously, the side walls are not moved along during displacement of the cover plate.
- the side faces of the stack of objects are covered by a film tube or a film strip, and if a top sheet film rests on the top face of the stack of objects, the cover plate can also be moved, or pressed, onto the top face of the stack of objects in order to bond together the film tube or the film banderole and the top sheet film.
- the cover plate is provided with a coating, particularly a Teflon coating, on its lower side facing the top face of the stack of objects. In this way, sticking of the top sheet film to the cover plate can be avoided when the cover plate is pressed onto the top face of the stack of objects.
- At least one blower is located on or in the cover plate and can extract the heated gases by suction or suck them in or with which cold gas or cold air can be fed in. It is within the scope of the invention that the at least one blower is in the area of or on the at least one outlet port. It is advantageous that the at least one blower is reversible so that the heated gases can be either removed by suction, or cool gas can be supplied if there is need for cooling. This is particularly the case if the temperature of the heated gases is or becomes too high in the area between the cover plate and the top face of the stack of objects, and/or in the area between the side walls and the side faces of the stack of objects. In principle, a cooler can also be provided on the cover plate or be present in addition thereto.
- the cover plate can be displaced or moved independently of the displaceability of the shrink frame.
- the cover plate can be moved downward parallel with the shrink frame.
- the cover plate can be moved, or vertically displaced entirely separately from the shrink frame according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
- the invention also teaches a method for shrink-fitting a film onto a stack of objects, the film being shrink-fitted onto the stack of objects with a shrink frame with for this purpose the shrink frame surrounding the stack of objects and being vertically moved along the stack of objects such that the film is heated for the shrink-fitting by a plurality of heaters distributed around the periphery of the shrink frame, wherein
- a cover plate above the stack of objects is moved vertically toward the stack of objects or vertically away from the stack of objects for adjusting a space between the cover plate and stack of objects
- heated gases generated during the shrinking process flow through clearances that are formed between the stack of objects, and in particular the shrink frame, and side walls or vertical side walls extending to the cover plate are formed, the heated gases being extracted, preferably by suction, and
- the cover plate is moved in a frame or a rigid frame formed by side walls or rigid side walls.
- the invention further teaches a method according to patent claim 15 and a method according to patent claim 16 .
- the shrink frame is moved at least up to the lower side of the stack of objects, and subsequently during operation of the heaters for heating and for shrink-fitting the film is moved toward the top face of the stack of objects. If the stack of objects is on a pallet, the shrink frame can also be moved to the pallet or under the pallet, in order to realize a corresponding bottom shrinkage.
- the heat output of the heaters is reduced, or ramped down if the film is heated on the side faces of the stack of objects by the heated gases flowing by or flowing to the cover plate to a degree that contributes to the shrink-fitting.
- the shrinking process is controlled by regulating the suction power of the at least one blower in the cover plate, and by controlling the output of the heaters of the shrink frame. If during the shrinking process the temperature increases in the area above the shrink frame, the output of the heaters is reduced when moving across this area, because the film is already preheated there. Thus, the energy required for the shrinking process can be correspondingly reduced.
- the invention is based on the realization that with the apparatus according to the invention and with the method according to the invention, a surprisingly high amount of energy can be saved during the shrinking process. To this extent, the effectiveness of an already substantially more efficient shrink frame as compared to shrink ovens can still be significantly increased.
- the apparatus according to the invention and the method according to the invention can also be realized with relatively simple and low-cost measures. Basically, already existing apparatuses can be retrofitted with the system of the invention in a relatively simple way. All in all, the invention is characterized by relatively low cost and low expenditure. It should also be pointed out that an apparatus according to the invention has a relatively small construction volume.
- FIG. 1 is a side view of an apparatus according to the invention in a first embodiment
- FIG. 2 shows another embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention in a first functional position
- FIG. 3 shows the apparatus of FIG. 2 in a second functional position
- FIG. 4 shows the apparatus of FIG. 3 in a third functional position
- FIG. 5 shows the apparatus of FIG. 2 in cross-section in a further functional position with a short stack of objects
- FIG. 6 shows another embodiment of the apparatus of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 7 shows another embodiment of the apparatus of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 8 shows another embodiment of the apparatus of FIG. 1 .
- the figures show an apparatus for shrink-fitting a film 1 onto a stack 2 of objects with a shrink frame 3 that is displaceable over the stack 2 of objects and that surrounds the stack 2 of objects during the shrink-fitting of the film.
- the shrink frame 3 is provided with a plurality of heaters 4 distributed around its periphery for heating the film 1 for the shrinking process.
- the heaters are gas-powered burners 5 .
- electrically operated heaters can also be used.
- a cover plate 6 covering the stack 2 of objects is provided that during the shrinking process preferably, and in the illustrated embodiment according to the figures, is spaced from the top face 7 of the stack 2 of objects.
- the cover plate is provided with an outlet port 8 for extracting the heated gases, or heated air generated during the shrinking process.
- the cover plate 6 can be vertically displaced toward the top face 7 of the stack 2 of objects, and can be displaced away from the top face of the stack 2 of objects, and in this way, the space V between the cover plate 6 and top face 7 of the stack 2 of objects can be adjusted for the shrinking process.
- the cover plate 6 projects past the outer edge or rim of the top face 7 of the stack 2 of objects.
- the cover plate 6 projects past the outer edge or rim of the top face 7 on all sides. It is recommended that for the rest, the cover plate 6 is parallel or essentially parallel to the top face 7 of the stack 2 of objects.
- a blower 9 is located above the outlet port 8 with which the heated gases or the heated air can be removed by suction. It is also within the scope of the invention that the blower 9 is reversible and, if need be, cool gas or cool air can be fed in through the outlet port 8 for cooling purposes.
- the cover plate 6 is displaceable independently of the displaceability of the shrink frame 3 .
- side walls 11 are provided between the shrink frame 3 and the cover plate 6 extending along side faces 10 of the stack 2 of objects.
- the side walls 11 are spaced from the side faces 10 of the stack 2 of objects.
- clearances 12 are formed for the heated gases flowing upward.
- FIGS. 1 and 6 to 8 only two opposing side walls 11 are shown. It is thereby within the scope of the invention that the stack 2 of objects is surrounded by side walls 11 on all sides so that a closed shell is formed. In the parallepipedal stack 2 of objects illustrated in the figures, four side walls 11 surrounding the stack 2 of objects are thus used.
- the side walls 11 are vertical and preferably project above the stack 2 of objects or the top face 7 thereof. It is within the scope of the invention that the side walls 11 extend to the cover plate 6 or to the level of the cover plate 6 . It is recommended and shown in the illustrated embodiment that the side walls 11 or lower ends of the side walls 11 are fixed to the shrink frame 3 . According to one embodiment, the side walls 11 are fixed to one another at their corners. However, it is also within the scope of the invention that the side walls 11 only loosely overlap at the corners.
- the method to be carried out by the apparatus according to the invention advantageously starts with the shrink frame 3 being moved to a lower region of the stack 2 of objects.
- the burners 5 can at this time already be operated in order to preheat the space around and above the stack 2 of objects. It is recommended that subsequently the shrink frame 3 is moved upward while operating the burners 5 so that the film 1 adhering to the stack 2 of objects is heated and shrink-fitted onto the stack 2 of objects.
- heated gases are generated, in particular heated air that flow through the clearances 12 between the side walls 11 and the stack 2 of objects toward the cover plate 6 and to the outlet port 8 .
- the heated gases are channeled at relatively close proximity past the film adhering to the stack 2 of objects above the shrink frame 3 .
- the preheating is also effective on the film 1 on the top face 7 of the stack 2 of objects or a cover sheet film located there.
- the space V can be adjusted here accordingly by the displaceable cover plate 6 .
- rigid side walls 11 form a rigid frame that surrounds the stack 2 of objects and is open on the top.
- the cover plate 6 can be vertically moved up or down. It goes without saying that the cover plate 6 must be displaceable in the frame with a certain amount of play. It is advantageous to seal the gap between the cover plate 6 and side walls 11 with the aid of a flexible sealing element or elements.
- the rigid side walls 11 are preferably fixed to the shrink frame 3 with their lower ends.
- FIGS. 2 to 5 show a particularly preferable embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention.
- the frame is formed by a first partial frame or box 20 and by a second partial frame or box 21 .
- the first partial box 20 and the second partial box 21 are of rectangular cross-section.
- the first partial box 20 is an inner box engaged in the second partial box 21 as outer box.
- the subassembly of the first partial box 20 and the second partial box 21 telescopes.
- the first and the second partial box 20 and 21 are of the same height.
- the second partial box 21 is connected to the shrink frame 3 at its lower end, and can thus move with the shrink frame 3 or move vertically downward.
- the walls of the first partial box 20 are connected to cover segments 22 that preferably and in the illustrated embodiment are perpendicular to the walls of the first partial box 20 .
- FIG. 2 shows the shrink frame 3 in an upper position.
- the first partial box 20 is completely engaged inside the second partial box 21 , and both partial boxes 20 and 21 rest on the shrink frame.
- the shrink frame 3 with the subassembly of the first partial box 20 and the second partial box 21 is moved further downward.
- the cover plate 6 suspended from rods 23 thereby draws close to the cover segments 22 of the first partial box 20 .
- FIG. 4 illustrates that with further downward movement of the shrink frame 3 to a lower position, the second partial box 21 is guided down with the shrink frame 3 along the first partial box 20 .
- the first partial box 20 pulls out of the second partial box 21 .
- the cover segments 22 of the first partial box 20 rest on the cover plate 6 .
- the first partial box 20 is suspended from the cover plate 6 .
- the cover plate 6 together with the first partial box 20 , is now moved downward with the aid of a displacing unit 24 in order to adjust an optimal space V between the top face 7 of the stack 2 of objects and the cover plate 6 .
- FIG. 5 shows an embodiment with a stack 2 of objects of low height.
- the subassembly of cover plate 6 and first partial box 20 is already completely moved downward so that the first partial box 20 also rests on the shrink frame 3 .
- the cover plate 6 can now be moved further downward in the first partial box 20 in order to set a more favorable space V between stack 2 of objects and cover plate 6 .
- the cover plate 6 is then moved in the subassembly of the first partial box 20 and the second partial box 21 .
- the shrink frame with the second partial box 21 is moved upward so that the second partial box 21 moves along the first partial box 20 .
- the shrink frame 3 together with the entire subassembly of second partial box 21 and first partial box 20 moves upward during the shrinking process.
- the side walls 11 are configured as flexible and heat-resistant or fire-proof walls 11 .
- the upper ends of the side walls 11 are connected to winders 13 .
- the flexible side walls 11 connected to the shrink frame 3 can be rolled off the winders 13 in accordance with the moving progression of the shrink frame 3 while the cover plate 3 maintains its position. It goes without saying that with an opposite movement of the shrink frame 3 , the flexible side walls 11 are rolled up again onto the winders 13 .
- the flexible side walls 11 are fixed to the shrink frame 3 at their lower ends.
- the inner shell 14 formed by the side walls 11 and the cover plate 6 is enclosed by an outer shell 15 with an upper outer plate 16 and outer side walls 17 such that the heated gases emerging from the cover plate 6 can flow back the shrink frame 3 in clearances 18 formed between the inner shell 14 and the outer shell 15 .
- the excess heat of the heated gases is utilized for reducing the energy consumption of the shrink frame 3 .
- both the inner shell 14 and the outer shell 15 are fixed the shrink frame 3 .
- the side walls 11 are configured as rigid side walls 11 , and as in the illustrated embodiment in FIG.
- the cover plate 6 can be vertically displaced in the frame formed of the rigid side walls 11 .
- the outer side walls 17 are likewise of rigid design. Basically, in this embodiment, the side walls 11 and/or the outer side walls 17 could also be configured as flexible walls that can be rolled up or out.
- an outer shell 15 over the inner shell 14 is also provided.
- the side walls 11 of the inner shell 14 and the outer side walls 17 of the outer shell 15 are as bellows.
- both the cover plate 6 and the upper outer plate 16 can be adjusted to different heights of stacks of objects 2 without a problem, and in particular, the space V between the cover plate 6 and top face 7 of the stack 2 of objects can be adjusted subject to the shrinking process and subject to the height of the stack 2 of objects.
Abstract
Description
- The invention relates to an apparatus for shrink-fitting a film onto a stack of objects with a shrink frame that can be moved over the stack of objects and that surrounds the stack of objects during shrink-fitting of the shrink film. The invention further relates to a method for shrink-fitting a film onto a stack of objects.
- The term “stack of objects” refers in particular to a plurality of packages, parcels, bags, or units of this kind that are advantageously stacked in a parallepipedal stack of objects. It is within the scope of the invention that the stack of objects is carried on a pallet. However, stacks of objects without a pallet can also be used. Basically, the stack of objects can also consist of a few stacked objects, or a single larger unit, for example, from the white objects sector (washers, refrigerators, dishwashers and the like. It is further within the scope of the invention, that the film is a film made of plastic that can be shrunk onto the stack of objects under the influence of heat. In this way, the units stacked in the stack of objects are firmly held together and in particular, are secured against slipping and the like. The film can be placed onto the stack of objects in the form of a package band, or can be pulled over the stack of objects in the form of a tube or a hood. Subsequently, the shrink-fitting of the film takes place under the action of heat.
- There are shrink frames known in the art that surround the stack of objects and are displaced vertically along the stack of objects, and thereby heat the film according to the vertical position of the shrink frame. The heating is done by way of heaters or burners distributed around the periphery of the shrink frame that are electrically or gas powered. The thermal energy released to the film can be controlled corresponding to the spacing of the burner from the stack of objects and by controlling the energy output of the burners and the vertical speed of the shrink frame.
- If stacks of objects having greater differences with regard to their dimensions (for example, 500 mm×500 mm to 1800 mm×1800 mm) are processed successively, several shrink frames of different dimensions can be held ready on the one hand, and for the shrinking process, the shrink frame that comes closest to the corresponding dimensions of the stack of objects is the one selected. Although essentially shrink frames have proven their worth, such devices are voluminous and costly. On the other hand, shrink frames with movable shrink strips can also be used to adapt the spacing of the burners to the respective dimensions of the stack of objects. However, this type of method is relatively complex because in the case of a size reduction of the shrink frame, the burners have to be turned off segmentally, and because many mobile components are used. This is primarily a problem if the components are gas fired.
- Furthermore, closed shrink ovens are known in the art where the film is usually shrunk onto the stack of objects with the aid of a circulating air system for heat distribution. However, these shrink ovens have the considerable disadvantage that the targeted heat supply for an optimal shrink-fitting of the film onto the different areas of the stack of objects is not possible. In contrast thereto, the shrink frames have proven to be significantly more effective.
- The object of the invention to further improve the already existing efficiency of a shrink frame, and in particular, to provide an energy-saving apparatus and an energy-saving method for shrinking-fitting a film.
- This object is attained in an apparatus for shrink-fitting a film onto a stack of objects where a shrink frame is provided that can be moved over the stack of objects and that surrounds the stack of objects during the shrinking-fitting of the film, wherein
-
- the shrink frame is provided with a plurality of heaters distributed around its periphery for heating the shrink film during the shrinking process,
- furthermore, a cover plate covering the stack of objects is provided that in particular is spaced from a top face of the stack of objects during the shrinking process,
- below the cover plate, side walls are provided extending along the stack of objects, or along the side faces of the stack of objects, and
- between the stack of objects, or between the side faces of the stack of objects and the side walls, clearances for the heated gases flowing to the cover plate, or flowing upward, are formed,
- the cover plate can be moved to the top face of the stack of objects and can be moved away from the top face of the stack of objects, and
- the side walls form a frame, in particular a rigid frame, within which the cover plate can move.
- It is within the scope of the invention that the cover plate can be displaced vertically to the top face of the stack of objects and vertically away from the top face of the stack of objects. Advantageously, the cover plate can be displaced vertically in the frame with little play with respect to the side walls. According to a recommended embodiment, the gap between the cover plate and side walls is sealed by at least one sealing element or by at least one flexible sealing element.
- According to an embodiment of the invention, rigid side walls form a rigid frame that is open upward toward the cover plate, and the cover plate can be moved vertically within the frame or between side walls of the frame. It is within the scope of the invention that with a lower end of the rigid frame is fastened to the shrink frame. With a parallepipedal stack of objects, the rigid frame is advantageously formed as a cubic box that is open at the top. The cover plate can then telescope into the frame or the cuboidal box.
- A particularly preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the frame, in particular the rigid frame, can be suspended from the cover plate, and that when thus suspended the frame can be moved with the cover plate. During displacement of the cover plate, the suspended frame is entrained by the cover plate. The cover plate and the side walls are then joined together to form a box, and this box moves as a whole over the stack of objects. Advantageously, the side walls or the frame with upper cover segments are combined to form a box, and in the suspended state of the frame or the box from the cover plate, the cover segments rest on the cover plate. According to an especially recommended embodiment, a first partial frame or box, and a second partial frame or box are provided, the first partial frame or box, engages, or can engage, in the second partial frame or box, and the cover plate in the first partial frame or box, and/or in the second partial frame or box, can be moved toward the stack of objects, or away from the stack of objects. Based on this displaceability of the cover plate, the height of the space V between the cover plate and stack of objects is adjusted. According to this embodiment, the first partial box forms an inner box so to speak and the second partial box forms an outer box, and these two partial boxes are configured to telescope. According to one embodiment, the first partial box and the second partial box are of the same height. The first partial box can engage completely or partially within the second partial box. It is within the scope of the invention that the second partial box can be moved downward, or vertically downward so that the first partial box projects from the second partial box at least partially. Preferably, the second partial box is fixed by its lower end to the shrink frame. It is recommended that the second partial box can be moved with the shrink frame, particularly downward, or vertically downward.
- In order to solve the technical problem, the invention further teaches an apparatus for shrink-fitting a film onto a stack of objects with a shrink frame that can be moved over the stack of objects and that surrounds the stack of objects during the shrinking-fitting of the film, wherein
- the shrink frame is provided with a plurality of heaters distributed around its periphery for heating the film during the shrinking process,
- furthermore, a cover plate covering the stack of objects is provided that in particular is spaced from a top face of the stack of objects during the shrinking process,
- below the cover plate, side walls are provided extending along the stack of objects or along side faces of the stack of objects, and clearances are formed between the stack of objects or the side faces of the stack of objects and the side walls, for the heated gases flowing to the cover plate, or flowing upward, and
- the side walls are made of a flexible material so that during upward movement of the shrink frame, they can be rolled off winders on the cover plate, in accordance with the progression of the downward movement of the shrink frame.
- It is within the scope of the invention that with movement of the shrink frame in the opposite direction, the flexible side walls can also be rolled up again. In this embodiment, the side walls are advantageously made of a fire-proof, or heat-resistant flexible material. It is recommended that the winders are connected to or fixed on the top face of the cover plate facing away from the stack of objects. The space between the cover plate and top face of the stack of objects can be easily adjusted, subject to the progression of the shrink progress and to the height of the stack of objects.
- To attain the object, the invention further teaches an apparatus for shrink-fitting a film onto a stack of objects with a shrink frame that can be moved over the stack of objects and that surrounds the stack of objects during the shrink-fitting of the film, wherein
- the shrink frame is provided with a plurality of heaters distributed around its periphery for heating the film during the shrinking process,
- furthermore, a cover plate covering the stack of objects is provided that in particular is spaced from the top face of the stack of objects during the shrinking process,
- below the cover plate, side walls are provided extending along the stack of objects, or along the side faces of the stack of objects, and wherein between the stack of objects, or between the side faces of the stack of objects and the side walls, clearances are formed for the heated gases flowing to the cover plate, or flowing upward, and
- the inner shell formed by the side walls and the cover plate is enclosed by an outer shell with upper outer plate and outer side walls such that the heated gases emerging from the cover plate can flow into the clearances formed between the inner shell and the outer shell to the shrink frame, or particularly, vertically downward to the shrink frame.
- In this embodiment, energy savings are achieved on the one hand in that the heated gases flowing through the clearances between the side walls and the stack of objects as well as through the space between the cover plate and the top face of the stack of objects can effectively preheat the film for the shrinking process. On the other hand, the heat escaping with the heated gases from the cover plate is recirculated to the shrink frame and thus, excess heat is utilized to further reduce energy consumption. As a result of the recirculation of the heated gases, the output of the heaters, or the burners of the shrink frame can be further reduced, that is to say, correspondingly to the temperature of the recirculated heated gases, or the recirculated heated air. Preferably, recirculation of the heated gases is assisted by at least one blower in the cover plate. Advantageously, the outer shell is fastened to the shrink frame. According to an embodiment of the invention, both the side walls of the inner shell and the outer side walls of the outer shell are flexible and preferably as fire-proof, or heat-resistant walls. It is then possible that with the aid of winders, both the flexible side walls and the flexible outer side walls can be rolled off the winders, or onto the winders, with corresponding movements of the components. In this way, the height of the space above the stack of objects can be adjusted in accordance with the shrink progression and the height of the stack of objects. However, the inner shell and/or the outer shell can also be provided with rigid side walls/outer side walls and preferably, the cover plate can then be vertically moved in the rigid frame from the rigid side walls. If need be, the inner shell and/or the outer shell can also be cooled.
- A special embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the side walls of the inner shell and/or the side walls of the outer shell are designed in a bellows-like manner. The inner shell and/or the outer shell can then be folded in the form of a sleeve in the manner of a concertina if the cover plate, or the upper outer plate is displaced vertically downward, or toward the top face of the stack of objects. On the other hand, the inner shell and/or the outer shell can be unfolded in the manner of a concertina if the cover plate, or the upper outer plate is moved in the opposite direction. It is within the scope of the invention that with this embodiment, the cover plate can also be moved to the top face of the stack of objects and away from the top face of the stack of objects.
- The following specifications and the preferred embodiments described therebelow apply to all above-described embodiment variations of the apparatus according to the invention. According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the cover plate covering the stack of objects is provided with at least one outlet port for releasing heat generated during the shrinking process, or for releasing heated gases generated during the shrinking process, in particular heated air. In principle, the at least one outlet port or the at least one upper outlet port could also be provided in the upper area of a side wall. It is within the scope of the invention that the outlet port can be closed by a closing element, for example, a throttle valve. However, in principle, the invention could also be used entirely without outlet port, or upper outlet port.
- The invention is based on the realization that with the apparatus according to the invention, an effective preheating of the film adhering to the side faces of the stack of objects, and also a film segment located on the top face of the stack of objects is possible. It is within the scope of the invention that during the shrinking process, the shrink frame is moved from a lower area of the stack of objects or the pallet toward the top face of the stack of objects. Due to the preheated film segments at the side faces and/or on the top face of the stack of objects according to the invention, the output of the heaters or the burners can be reduced and in this way energy can be effectively saved. According to the invention, the heaters or the burners can be readjusted subject to extend of the preheating of the film segments by the heated gases. The heaters are preferably burners that are powered by electricity or gas. According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, a shrink frame with electric heating according to EP 0 386 530 1 [U.S. Pat. No. 5,511,528] is used. It is within the scope of the invention that the film is a film made of plastic that is capable of shrinking if subjected to heat.
- It is recommended that the side walls are provided between the shrink frame and the cover plate. Advantageously, the side walls spaced from the side faces of the stack of objects form a closed shell that completely encloses the side faces of the stack of objects. It is within the scope of the invention that a parallepipedal stack of objects is provided with the shrink foil. Preferably, four side walls are then provided that are cubically arranged with rectangular or square cross-sections. It is recommended that the side walls project above the top face of the stack of objects. It is preferred that at least in the operating state during the shrink-fitting of the film, the side walls project upward to the cover plate. It is advantageous that the side walls are made of a heat-resistant, or fire-proof material. According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the side walls, or the lower ends of the side walls are fixed to the shrink frame.
- It is recommended that the cover plate projects above the edges, or rims of the top face of the stack of objects. Preferably, the cover plate is parallel, or essentially parallel, to the top face of the stack of objects. It is within the scope of the invention that at least during shrink-fitting of the film onto the side faces of the stack of objects, the cover plate is spaced from the top face of the stack of objects.
- It is further within the scope of the invention that the cover plate can be moved vertically toward the top face of the stack of objects and vertically away from the top face of the stack of objects. It is recommended that the cover plate can be displaced relative to the side walls. Advantageously, the side walls are not moved along during displacement of the cover plate. By moving the cover plate toward the top face of the stack of objects, a space reduction between the top face of the stack of objects and the cover plate can be realized that allows an effective preheating of the film by the heated gases rising upward so that the output of the heaters of the shrink frame can be reduced. If, according to one embodiment, the side faces of the stack of objects are covered by a film tube or a film strip, and if a top sheet film rests on the top face of the stack of objects, the cover plate can also be moved, or pressed, onto the top face of the stack of objects in order to bond together the film tube or the film banderole and the top sheet film. According to a variation of an embodiment of the invention, the cover plate is provided with a coating, particularly a Teflon coating, on its lower side facing the top face of the stack of objects. In this way, sticking of the top sheet film to the cover plate can be avoided when the cover plate is pressed onto the top face of the stack of objects.
- According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one blower is located on or in the cover plate and can extract the heated gases by suction or suck them in or with which cold gas or cold air can be fed in. It is within the scope of the invention that the at least one blower is in the area of or on the at least one outlet port. It is advantageous that the at least one blower is reversible so that the heated gases can be either removed by suction, or cool gas can be supplied if there is need for cooling. This is particularly the case if the temperature of the heated gases is or becomes too high in the area between the cover plate and the top face of the stack of objects, and/or in the area between the side walls and the side faces of the stack of objects. In principle, a cooler can also be provided on the cover plate or be present in addition thereto.
- It is within the scope of the invention that the cover plate can be displaced or moved independently of the displaceability of the shrink frame. In principle, during downward movement of the shrink frame in its operational position, for example, the cover plate can be moved downward parallel with the shrink frame. Particularly for reducing or increasing the space between the cover plate and top face of the stack of objects, the cover plate can be moved, or vertically displaced entirely separately from the shrink frame according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
- In order to attain the object, the invention also teaches a method for shrink-fitting a film onto a stack of objects, the film being shrink-fitted onto the stack of objects with a shrink frame with for this purpose the shrink frame surrounding the stack of objects and being vertically moved along the stack of objects such that the film is heated for the shrink-fitting by a plurality of heaters distributed around the periphery of the shrink frame, wherein
- a cover plate above the stack of objects is moved vertically toward the stack of objects or vertically away from the stack of objects for adjusting a space between the cover plate and stack of objects,
- heated gases generated during the shrinking process flow through clearances that are formed between the stack of objects, and in particular the shrink frame, and side walls or vertical side walls extending to the cover plate are formed, the heated gases being extracted, preferably by suction, and
- during displacement toward the stack of objects and during displacement in the opposite direction, the cover plate is moved in a frame or a rigid frame formed by side walls or rigid side walls.
- In order to attain the object, the invention further teaches a method according to
patent claim 15 and a method according topatent claim 16. - It is within the scope of the invention that the shrink frame is moved at least up to the lower side of the stack of objects, and subsequently during operation of the heaters for heating and for shrink-fitting the film is moved toward the top face of the stack of objects. If the stack of objects is on a pallet, the shrink frame can also be moved to the pallet or under the pallet, in order to realize a corresponding bottom shrinkage.
- It is further within the scope of the invention that the heat output of the heaters is reduced, or ramped down if the film is heated on the side faces of the stack of objects by the heated gases flowing by or flowing to the cover plate to a degree that contributes to the shrink-fitting. Advantageously, the shrinking process is controlled by regulating the suction power of the at least one blower in the cover plate, and by controlling the output of the heaters of the shrink frame. If during the shrinking process the temperature increases in the area above the shrink frame, the output of the heaters is reduced when moving across this area, because the film is already preheated there. Thus, the energy required for the shrinking process can be correspondingly reduced.
- The invention is based on the realization that with the apparatus according to the invention and with the method according to the invention, a surprisingly high amount of energy can be saved during the shrinking process. To this extent, the effectiveness of an already substantially more efficient shrink frame as compared to shrink ovens can still be significantly increased. The apparatus according to the invention and the method according to the invention can also be realized with relatively simple and low-cost measures. Basically, already existing apparatuses can be retrofitted with the system of the invention in a relatively simple way. All in all, the invention is characterized by relatively low cost and low expenditure. It should also be pointed out that an apparatus according to the invention has a relatively small construction volume.
- The invention is described in more detail below with reference to a drawing illustrating only one embodiment. In the schematic drawing:
-
FIG. 1 is a side view of an apparatus according to the invention in a first embodiment, -
FIG. 2 shows another embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention in a first functional position, -
FIG. 3 shows the apparatus ofFIG. 2 in a second functional position, -
FIG. 4 shows the apparatus ofFIG. 3 in a third functional position, -
FIG. 5 shows the apparatus ofFIG. 2 in cross-section in a further functional position with a short stack of objects, -
FIG. 6 shows another embodiment of the apparatus ofFIG. 1 , -
FIG. 7 shows another embodiment of the apparatus ofFIG. 1 , and -
FIG. 8 shows another embodiment of the apparatus ofFIG. 1 . - The figures show an apparatus for shrink-fitting a film 1 onto a
stack 2 of objects with ashrink frame 3 that is displaceable over thestack 2 of objects and that surrounds thestack 2 of objects during the shrink-fitting of the film. In the embodiment according to the figures, theshrink frame 3 is provided with a plurality ofheaters 4 distributed around its periphery for heating the film 1 for the shrinking process. In the illustrated embodiment, the heaters are gas-poweredburners 5. However, electrically operated heaters can also be used. - According to the invention, a
cover plate 6 covering thestack 2 of objects is provided that during the shrinking process preferably, and in the illustrated embodiment according to the figures, is spaced from thetop face 7 of thestack 2 of objects. In the illustrated embodiment according to the figures, the cover plate is provided with anoutlet port 8 for extracting the heated gases, or heated air generated during the shrinking process. In the illustrated embodiment, thecover plate 6 can be vertically displaced toward thetop face 7 of thestack 2 of objects, and can be displaced away from the top face of thestack 2 of objects, and in this way, the space V between thecover plate 6 andtop face 7 of thestack 2 of objects can be adjusted for the shrinking process. The figures show that according to a preferred embodiment, thecover plate 6 projects past the outer edge or rim of thetop face 7 of thestack 2 of objects. Advantageously, thecover plate 6 projects past the outer edge or rim of thetop face 7 on all sides. It is recommended that for the rest, thecover plate 6 is parallel or essentially parallel to thetop face 7 of thestack 2 of objects. Preferably, and in the illustrated embodiment according to the figures, ablower 9 is located above theoutlet port 8 with which the heated gases or the heated air can be removed by suction. It is also within the scope of the invention that theblower 9 is reversible and, if need be, cool gas or cool air can be fed in through theoutlet port 8 for cooling purposes. Preferably, and in the illustrated embodiment, thecover plate 6 is displaceable independently of the displaceability of theshrink frame 3. - According to the invention,
side walls 11 are provided between theshrink frame 3 and thecover plate 6 extending along side faces 10 of thestack 2 of objects. Theside walls 11 are spaced from the side faces 10 of thestack 2 of objects. Between thestack 2 of objects and theside walls 11,clearances 12 are formed for the heated gases flowing upward. InFIGS. 1 and 6 to 8, only two opposingside walls 11 are shown. It is thereby within the scope of the invention that thestack 2 of objects is surrounded byside walls 11 on all sides so that a closed shell is formed. In theparallepipedal stack 2 of objects illustrated in the figures, fourside walls 11 surrounding thestack 2 of objects are thus used. Advantageously, and in the illustrated embodiment according to the figures, theside walls 11 are vertical and preferably project above thestack 2 of objects or thetop face 7 thereof. It is within the scope of the invention that theside walls 11 extend to thecover plate 6 or to the level of thecover plate 6. It is recommended and shown in the illustrated embodiment that theside walls 11 or lower ends of theside walls 11 are fixed to theshrink frame 3. According to one embodiment, theside walls 11 are fixed to one another at their corners. However, it is also within the scope of the invention that theside walls 11 only loosely overlap at the corners. - The method to be carried out by the apparatus according to the invention advantageously starts with the
shrink frame 3 being moved to a lower region of thestack 2 of objects. Theburners 5 can at this time already be operated in order to preheat the space around and above thestack 2 of objects. It is recommended that subsequently theshrink frame 3 is moved upward while operating theburners 5 so that the film 1 adhering to thestack 2 of objects is heated and shrink-fitted onto thestack 2 of objects. - During this shrinking process, heated gases are generated, in particular heated air that flow through the
clearances 12 between theside walls 11 and thestack 2 of objects toward thecover plate 6 and to theoutlet port 8. Thus, the heated gases are channeled at relatively close proximity past the film adhering to thestack 2 of objects above theshrink frame 3. This results in an effective preheating of the upper film segments, and this results in the considerable advantage that the output of theburners 5 of the succeedingshrink frame 3 can be reduced due to the film segments already being preheated for the shrinking process. This brings about a considerable saving in energy. The preheating is also effective on the film 1 on thetop face 7 of thestack 2 of objects or a cover sheet film located there. For effective preheating, the space V can be adjusted here accordingly by thedisplaceable cover plate 6. - In the embodiment according to
FIG. 1 ,rigid side walls 11 form a rigid frame that surrounds thestack 2 of objects and is open on the top. In this frame, or between therigid side walls 11, thecover plate 6 can be vertically moved up or down. It goes without saying that thecover plate 6 must be displaceable in the frame with a certain amount of play. It is advantageous to seal the gap between thecover plate 6 andside walls 11 with the aid of a flexible sealing element or elements. Incidentally, in the illustrated embodiment according toFIG. 1 , therigid side walls 11 are preferably fixed to theshrink frame 3 with their lower ends. -
FIGS. 2 to 5 show a particularly preferable embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention. In this embodiment, the frame is formed by a first partial frame orbox 20 and by a second partial frame orbox 21. Preferably and in the illustrated embodiment the firstpartial box 20 and the secondpartial box 21 are of rectangular cross-section. The firstpartial box 20 is an inner box engaged in the secondpartial box 21 as outer box. The subassembly of the firstpartial box 20 and the secondpartial box 21 telescopes. Advantageously and in the illustrated embodiment the first and the secondpartial box partial box 21 is connected to theshrink frame 3 at its lower end, and can thus move with theshrink frame 3 or move vertically downward. Incidentally, preferably, and in the illustrated embodiment, the walls of the firstpartial box 20 are connected to coversegments 22 that preferably and in the illustrated embodiment are perpendicular to the walls of the firstpartial box 20. -
FIG. 2 shows theshrink frame 3 in an upper position. Here, the firstpartial box 20 is completely engaged inside the secondpartial box 21, and bothpartial boxes FIG. 3 , theshrink frame 3 with the subassembly of the firstpartial box 20 and the secondpartial box 21 is moved further downward. Thecover plate 6 suspended fromrods 23 thereby draws close to thecover segments 22 of the firstpartial box 20.FIG. 4 illustrates that with further downward movement of theshrink frame 3 to a lower position, the secondpartial box 21 is guided down with theshrink frame 3 along the firstpartial box 20. Thus, the firstpartial box 20 pulls out of the secondpartial box 21. In the functional position ofFIG. 4 , thecover segments 22 of the firstpartial box 20 rest on thecover plate 6. Thus, the firstpartial box 20 is suspended from thecover plate 6. If need be, thecover plate 6, together with the firstpartial box 20, is now moved downward with the aid of a displacingunit 24 in order to adjust an optimal space V between thetop face 7 of thestack 2 of objects and thecover plate 6. -
FIG. 5 shows an embodiment with astack 2 of objects of low height. In this embodiment, the subassembly ofcover plate 6 and firstpartial box 20 is already completely moved downward so that the firstpartial box 20 also rests on theshrink frame 3. If need be, thecover plate 6 can now be moved further downward in the firstpartial box 20 in order to set a more favorable space V betweenstack 2 of objects and coverplate 6. In other words, thecover plate 6 is then moved in the subassembly of the firstpartial box 20 and the secondpartial box 21. - During the shrinking process in the embodiment according to
FIG. 4 , the shrink frame with the secondpartial box 21 is moved upward so that the secondpartial box 21 moves along the firstpartial box 20. In the variation according toFIG. 5 , theshrink frame 3, together with the entire subassembly of secondpartial box 21 and firstpartial box 20 moves upward during the shrinking process. - In the illustrated embodiment according to
FIG. 6 , theside walls 11 are configured as flexible and heat-resistant or fire-proof walls 11. In the illustrated embodiment according toFIG. 6 , the upper ends of theside walls 11 are connected to winders 13. During upward movement of theshrink frame 3, theflexible side walls 11 connected to theshrink frame 3 can be rolled off thewinders 13 in accordance with the moving progression of theshrink frame 3 while thecover plate 3 maintains its position. It goes without saying that with an opposite movement of theshrink frame 3, theflexible side walls 11 are rolled up again onto thewinders 13. Advantageously, and in the illustrated embodiment according toFIG. 6 , theflexible side walls 11 are fixed to theshrink frame 3 at their lower ends. - In the embodiment according to
FIG. 7 , theinner shell 14 formed by theside walls 11 and thecover plate 6 is enclosed by anouter shell 15 with an upperouter plate 16 andouter side walls 17 such that the heated gases emerging from thecover plate 6 can flow back theshrink frame 3 inclearances 18 formed between theinner shell 14 and theouter shell 15. In this way, the excess heat of the heated gases is utilized for reducing the energy consumption of theshrink frame 3. Advantageously, in the illustrated embodiment inFIG. 7 , both theinner shell 14 and theouter shell 15 are fixed theshrink frame 3. In the illustrated embodiment according toFIG. 7 , theside walls 11 are configured asrigid side walls 11, and as in the illustrated embodiment inFIG. 1 , thecover plate 6 can be vertically displaced in the frame formed of therigid side walls 11. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment inFIG. 7 , theouter side walls 17 are likewise of rigid design. Basically, in this embodiment, theside walls 11 and/or theouter side walls 17 could also be configured as flexible walls that can be rolled up or out. - In the illustrated embodiment in
FIG. 8 , anouter shell 15 over theinner shell 14 is also provided. However, in this embodiment, theside walls 11 of theinner shell 14 and theouter side walls 17 of theouter shell 15 are as bellows. By folding or unfolding the bellows like a concertina, both thecover plate 6 and the upperouter plate 16 can be adjusted to different heights of stacks ofobjects 2 without a problem, and in particular, the space V between thecover plate 6 andtop face 7 of thestack 2 of objects can be adjusted subject to the shrinking process and subject to the height of thestack 2 of objects.
Claims (20)
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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EP12159066.5A EP2639166A1 (en) | 2012-03-12 | 2012-03-12 | Device and method for shrink-fitting a stack of goods with shrink film |
DE12159066.5 | 2012-03-12 | ||
PCT/EP2013/054887 WO2013135634A1 (en) | 2012-03-12 | 2013-03-11 | Device and method for shrinking a shrink film onto a stack of goods |
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US20140366488A1 true US20140366488A1 (en) | 2014-12-18 |
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US14/375,096 Abandoned US20140366488A1 (en) | 2012-03-12 | 2013-03-11 | Device and method for shrinking a shrink film onto a stack of goods |
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US (1) | US20140366488A1 (en) |
EP (2) | EP2639166A1 (en) |
KR (2) | KR101857934B1 (en) |
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DE202015107021U1 (en) * | 2015-12-22 | 2017-03-24 | Msk - Verpackungs-Systeme Gmbh | Shrink frame with at least one connectable to a fan air inlet for supplying blown air |
CN105857762A (en) * | 2016-05-31 | 2016-08-17 | 宁波工程学院 | Shrink packaging machine |
CN105857763A (en) * | 2016-05-31 | 2016-08-17 | 宁波工程学院 | Heat shrinkage packaging machine |
CN105819035A (en) * | 2016-05-31 | 2016-08-03 | 宁波工程学院 | Shrink wrapping machine |
CN106005604A (en) * | 2016-06-30 | 2016-10-12 | 苏州市盛百威包装设备有限公司 | Energy-saving heat shrinkable film machine |
CN106005602A (en) * | 2016-06-30 | 2016-10-12 | 苏州市盛百威包装设备有限公司 | Hot shrinkable film machine capable of preventing labels from being wetted |
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US4147197A (en) * | 1977-06-20 | 1979-04-03 | Overhead Door Corporation | Fire door and operator therefor |
US6421983B1 (en) * | 1998-11-05 | 2002-07-23 | Kl-Lachenmeier A/S | Method and apparatus for shrinking a foil onto an object |
US20080202072A1 (en) * | 2005-10-24 | 2008-08-28 | Hannen Reiner | Method and Device For Shrinking a Heat Shrink Film Placed |
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FR2082861A5 (en) * | 1970-03-25 | 1971-12-10 | Hurdequint Louis | Shrink-wrapping oven - drops over a pack to shrink the bag mouth uniformly using directional hot air jets |
US3723708A (en) * | 1972-05-18 | 1973-03-27 | M Tulkoff | Apparatus for heat shrinking material about loaded pallet |
US3831340A (en) * | 1973-03-26 | 1974-08-27 | M Tulkoff | Method for compacting thermoplastic film material and apparatus therefor |
FR2564033B1 (en) * | 1984-05-10 | 1987-01-02 | Thimon Ste Nouvelle Exploit | METHOD FOR HEATING - WITH A VIEW TO RETRACTING IT - A HEAT SHRINKABLE PLASTIC SHEATH COVERING A LOAD AND A MACHINE FOR CARRYING OUT THE METHOD |
NO900771L (en) | 1989-03-10 | 1990-09-11 | Msk Verpackung Syst Gmbh | DEVICE FOR TREATMENT OF SHRINKLE PLASTIC. |
FR2858297B1 (en) * | 2003-07-31 | 2006-01-20 | Sleever Int | METHOD AND THERMORETRACTION MACHINE FOR THERMORETRACTABLE SLEEVES, INDIVIDUALLY SIDED ON OBJECTS SUCH AS BOTTLES |
CN200974627Y (en) * | 2006-09-05 | 2007-11-14 | 孙滨 | Tray shrink packing machine |
-
2012
- 2012-03-12 EP EP12159066.5A patent/EP2639166A1/en not_active Withdrawn
-
2013
- 2013-03-11 MX MX2014010914A patent/MX346599B/en active IP Right Grant
- 2013-03-11 WO PCT/EP2013/054887 patent/WO2013135634A1/en active Application Filing
- 2013-03-11 CN CN201380013527.1A patent/CN104203755B/en active Active
- 2013-03-11 EP EP13708812.6A patent/EP2825468B1/en active Active
- 2013-03-11 US US14/375,096 patent/US20140366488A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2013-03-11 KR KR1020177012646A patent/KR101857934B1/en active IP Right Grant
- 2013-03-11 KR KR1020147028231A patent/KR20140138263A/en active Application Filing
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DE1611861A1 (en) * | 1968-03-01 | 1971-02-04 | Hirsch & Co Ing | Method and device for shrinking shrink films onto goods |
US3840997A (en) * | 1972-04-18 | 1974-10-15 | J Lucas | Apparatus for wrapping stacked compressible materials in a thermo-shrinkable plastics film |
US4146777A (en) * | 1975-11-11 | 1979-03-27 | Black Body Corporation | Heat conserver for bell-type ovens |
US4147197A (en) * | 1977-06-20 | 1979-04-03 | Overhead Door Corporation | Fire door and operator therefor |
US6421983B1 (en) * | 1998-11-05 | 2002-07-23 | Kl-Lachenmeier A/S | Method and apparatus for shrinking a foil onto an object |
US20080202072A1 (en) * | 2005-10-24 | 2008-08-28 | Hannen Reiner | Method and Device For Shrinking a Heat Shrink Film Placed |
Non-Patent Citations (2)
Title |
---|
cover plate 28 which D is attached moves within side walls 1,1,2,2; figs 1-5; fig.2 shows plate 28 above stack of objects and movable towards and away from the stack via rods 31,30,30'31; col.4 lines 1-68; and further recites that in its downward travel housing h will, by means of the undersurface of top wall 3,contact the frame n of heat conserver D" which as shown in the figures below conserver D is carried by plate 28, and then further in figure 6 shows conserver D and plate 28 moving independently * |
EPO machine translation of DE3516609, retrieved 8/30/2017 from espace.net, 6 pages. * |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CN104203755B (en) | 2016-10-26 |
MX2014010914A (en) | 2015-03-03 |
CN104203755A (en) | 2014-12-10 |
WO2013135634A1 (en) | 2013-09-19 |
EP2825468B1 (en) | 2016-11-02 |
MX346599B (en) | 2017-03-24 |
KR20140138263A (en) | 2014-12-03 |
EP2825468A1 (en) | 2015-01-21 |
EP2639166A1 (en) | 2013-09-18 |
KR20170055566A (en) | 2017-05-19 |
KR101857934B1 (en) | 2018-05-14 |
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