EP3539883A1 - Deep draw packaging machine with film deflection - Google Patents

Deep draw packaging machine with film deflection Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3539883A1
EP3539883A1 EP18210759.9A EP18210759A EP3539883A1 EP 3539883 A1 EP3539883 A1 EP 3539883A1 EP 18210759 A EP18210759 A EP 18210759A EP 3539883 A1 EP3539883 A1 EP 3539883A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
station
packaging machine
thermoforming packaging
web
machine according
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.)
Granted
Application number
EP18210759.9A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3539883B1 (en
Inventor
Elmar Ehrmann
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
Original Assignee
Multivac Sepp Haggenmueller GmbH and Co KG
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
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Publication of EP3539883A1 publication Critical patent/EP3539883A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3539883B1 publication Critical patent/EP3539883B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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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
    • B65B41/00—Supplying or feeding container-forming sheets or wrapping material
    • B65B41/12—Feeding webs from rolls
    • 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
    • B65B25/00—Packaging other articles presenting special problems
    • B65B25/06—Packaging slices or specially-shaped pieces of meat, cheese, or other plastic or tacky products
    • 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
    • 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
    • B65B47/00—Apparatus or devices for forming pockets or receptacles in or from sheets, blanks, or webs, comprising essentially a die into which the material is pressed or a folding die through which the material is moved
    • B65B47/02—Apparatus or devices for forming pockets or receptacles in or from sheets, blanks, or webs, comprising essentially a die into which the material is pressed or a folding die through which the material is moved with means for heating the material prior to forming
    • 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
    • B65B47/00—Apparatus or devices for forming pockets or receptacles in or from sheets, blanks, or webs, comprising essentially a die into which the material is pressed or a folding die through which the material is moved
    • B65B47/04—Apparatus or devices for forming pockets or receptacles in or from sheets, blanks, or webs, comprising essentially a die into which the material is pressed or a folding die through which the material is moved by application of mechanical pressure
    • 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
    • B65B5/00—Packaging individual articles in containers or receptacles, e.g. bags, sacks, boxes, cartons, cans, jars
    • B65B5/02—Machines characterised by incorporation of means for making the containers or receptacles
    • 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
    • B65B51/00—Devices for, or methods of, sealing or securing package folds or closures; Devices for gathering or twisting wrappers, or necks of bags
    • B65B51/10—Applying or generating heat or pressure or combinations thereof
    • 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
    • B65B61/00—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages
    • B65B61/02—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages for perforating, scoring, slitting, or applying code or date marks on material prior to packaging
    • 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
    • B65B65/00—Details peculiar to packaging machines and not otherwise provided for; Arrangements of such details
    • B65B65/003—Packaging lines, e.g. general layout
    • 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
    • B65B9/00—Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material, e.g. liquids or semiliquids, in flat, folded, or tubular webs of flexible sheet material; Subdividing filled flexible tubes to form packages
    • B65B9/02—Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material between opposed webs
    • B65B9/04—Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material between opposed webs one or both webs being formed with pockets for the reception of the articles, or of the quantities of material
    • B65B9/045—Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material between opposed webs one or both webs being formed with pockets for the reception of the articles, or of the quantities of material for single articles, e.g. tablets
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H23/00—Registering, tensioning, smoothing or guiding webs
    • B65H23/04—Registering, tensioning, smoothing or guiding webs longitudinally
    • B65H23/32—Arrangements for turning or reversing webs
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H2301/00—Handling processes for sheets or webs
    • B65H2301/40—Type of handling process
    • B65H2301/41—Winding, unwinding
    • B65H2301/417—Handling or changing web rolls
    • B65H2301/41704—Handling or changing web rolls involving layout of production or storage facility
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H2406/00—Means using fluid
    • B65H2406/30—Suction means
    • B65H2406/35—Other elements with suction surface, e.g. plate or wall
    • B65H2406/351—Other elements with suction surface, e.g. plate or wall facing the surface of the handled material
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H2701/00—Handled material; Storage means
    • B65H2701/10—Handled articles or webs
    • B65H2701/17—Nature of material
    • B65H2701/175—Plastic
    • B65H2701/1752—Polymer film
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H2701/00—Handled material; Storage means
    • B65H2701/10—Handled articles or webs
    • B65H2701/19—Specific article or web
    • B65H2701/191—Bags, sachets and pouches or the like
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H2701/00—Handled material; Storage means
    • B65H2701/10—Handled articles or webs
    • B65H2701/19—Specific article or web
    • B65H2701/1944—Wrapping or packing material

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the field of thermoforming packaging machines.
  • the invention relates to a thermoforming packaging machine for packaging food products.
  • a deep-drawn packaging machine in which a preheating station, a forming station, an insertion path, a sealing station and a cutting station are arranged one behind the other along a linear production direction.
  • a lower film web is withdrawn from a supply roll provided collinearly in front of the preheating station on a film receiver with respect to the production direction and then conveyed along the production direction by means of a transport device and fed to the individual processing stations.
  • packaging trays are formed in the lower sheet web at the forming station by deep-drawing.
  • the packaging trays are filled with products to be packaged.
  • the filled packaging trays are then sealed in the sealing station with a top film.
  • the sealed packages are released from the film composite so that they can subsequently be removed separately.
  • thermoforming packaging machine A disadvantage of the known thermoforming packaging machine is the high space requirement along the production direction. In principle, in order to avoid frequent changes, it would also be advantageous to use under-film supply rolls with a large amount of material and an associated large diameter. As a result, however, the space required along the production direction continues to increase.
  • the space requirement along the production directions is particularly relevant for many applications, since often more devices are to be arranged with respect to the production direction before the actual thermoforming packaging machine.
  • a slicer for food to be packaged may be placed in front of the thermoforming packaging machine. The sliced foods, such as sausage or cheese slices, can then by means of a parallel to the direction of production on the forming station extending feed belt, as for example from the EP 3 202 671 A2 is known to be transported to the Einlegeumble.
  • thermoforming packaging machine that can be set up to save space.
  • thermoforming packaging machine defines a preferably linear production direction and comprises a film receptacle for receiving a bottom film supply roll, a pretreatment station, a forming station, an insertion path and a sealing station.
  • the pre-treatment station is configured to pretreat the sub-web.
  • the forming station is downstream of the pretreatment station with respect to the production direction and comprises a forming tool for forming depressions in the sub-film web by deep drawing.
  • the molding tool may comprise a mold upper part and a mold lower part movable relative thereto, between which the lower film web is deep-drawn.
  • the insertion path is arranged downstream of the forming station with respect to the production direction.
  • the sealing station is arranged downstream of the insertion path with respect to the production direction and comprises a sealing tool for closing the hollows with a top film.
  • the sealing tool may comprise a sealing tool upper part and a sealing tool lower part movable relative thereto.
  • the top film can be sealed to the bottom film, for example by means of ultrasonic welding, heat welding or otherwise.
  • the thermoforming packaging machine further comprises a transport means adapted to convey the sub-web web along the direction of production through the pretreatment station, further to the forming station, further to the infeed path and finally to the sealing station.
  • the transport device is preferably operated in a clocked manner.
  • the thermoforming packaging machine also includes a diverter unit configured to deflect the sub-web of web about an angle with respect to a vertical axis prior to reaching the pre-treatment station.
  • the sub-web is deflected by the diverter after leaving the film receiver and before reaching the pretreatment station.
  • the deflection unit makes it possible to position the film holder more freely.
  • the film holder no longer has to be arranged linearly in front of the individual stations of the thermoforming packaging machine with respect to the production direction. This reduces the overall length of the thermoforming packaging machine along the production direction.
  • the film holder can be positioned so that it is more accessible for changing the lower film supply roll.
  • the deflection unit is arranged at least partially below the pretreatment station. As a result, the space requirement along the production direction can be further reduced.
  • the deflection unit uses space under the pre-treatment station and thus does not contribute or only to a small extent to the length extension of the thermoforming packaging machine.
  • the diverter unit is protected under the pretreatment station and stowed compactly.
  • the film holder is provided offset to the production direction.
  • the film holder can be offset with respect to the production direction optionally on the left side or the right side.
  • the accessibility of the thermoforming packaging machine at its front end is improved by a staggered provision of the film holder.
  • the deflecting unit may be configured to deflect the sub-sheet relative to the vertical axis by an angle between 60 ° and 120 °, an angle between 80 ° and 100 °, or an angle of at least substantially 90 °.
  • the film receptacle can be arranged so that the lower film web is withdrawn from the lower film supply roll substantially along a direction perpendicular to the direction of production.
  • the deflecting unit provided below the pretreatment station it would also be conceivable for the deflecting unit provided below the pretreatment station to be provided in front of further deflecting units so that the positioning of the film receptacle can be adapted essentially freely to the respective space specifications.
  • the deflection unit is configured such that a running direction of the lower film web after being deflected by the deflection unit, at least in projection from the top of the thermoforming packaging machine, is parallel or antiparallel to the production direction.
  • the sub-sheet can be easily prepared for incorporation into the production process of the thermoforming packaging machine.
  • the thermoforming packaging machine may additionally comprise an introduction device which is designed to introduce the sub-film web into the production sequence of the thermoforming packaging machine and / or into the pretreatment station after being deflected by the deflection unit.
  • the introduction device can transfer the lower film web at a suitable height and in a suitable orientation to the transport device, so that it is readily possible to resort to a transport device as known from known thermoforming packaging machines with a linearly superposed film receptacle with respect to the production direction.
  • the introduction device comprises one or more, in particular horizontally oriented deflection rollers.
  • the sub-sheet can be performed after deflecting by the deflection to an appropriate height to be supplied to the pretreatment station.
  • the deflection unit is present at least partially below the pretreatment station, the lower film web can thus be fed to the pretreatment station along the production direction.
  • the introduction device can be arranged at least partially below the pretreatment station. Thus, the space below the pre-treatment station can still be exploited.
  • the thermoforming packaging machine comprises a machine frame, on which the pretreatment station, the forming station, the insertion path and the sealing station are arranged one behind the other along the production direction.
  • the machine frame can have or define a recess region below the pretreatment station, in which the deflection unit is at least partially arranged.
  • the deflection unit is completely provided in the recess area of the machine frame.
  • the deflection unit it would also be conceivable for the deflection unit to protrude laterally or forwards beyond the machine frame.
  • the machine frame may have a counter to the production direction protruding boom on which the pretreatment station is arranged.
  • the deflecting unit can be arranged at least partially below the cantilever. By providing a jib of the machine frame, the space above the diverter unit can be used to attach the pre-treatment station.
  • the introduction device is attached to the machine frame.
  • the introduction device can be integrated into the thermoforming packaging machine in a simple and space-saving manner.
  • the pretreatment station may comprise, for example, a preheating station for preheating the sub-web prior to reaching the forming station.
  • a preheating station can be formed relatively flat compared to the forming station or the sealing station, so that a provision of the deflecting unit under the preheating station is possible without having to raise the machine frame in the preheating station.
  • the pre-treatment station may include a perforate or slot unit configured to punch or slit the sub-web.
  • the hole or slot unit may be configured to insert holes or slots in the sub-web which may later be used in the sealing station to evacuate the packages prior to sealing and / or to introduce a protective gas atmosphere into the packages, for example, durability of the packages to increase the product to be packaged.
  • the hole or slot unit is integrated with and / or attached to the machine frame.
  • the perforating or slitting unit may be made so flat as compared to the forming station or the sealing station that the provision of the deflecting unit under the perforating or slitting unit is possible without raising the height of the thermoforming packaging machine in the area of the perforating or slitting unit.
  • the hole or slot unit comprises a waste device configured to collect and / or remove film residues resulting from the punching or slitting of the sub-web.
  • a waste device configured to collect and / or remove film residues resulting from the punching or slitting of the sub-web.
  • the perforating or slitting unit comprises a suction device for sucking off film residues formed during the perforation or slitting of the lower film web. So the film residues can be removed automatically and reliably.
  • thermoforming packaging machine 1 shows in plan view a thermoforming packaging machine 1 according to one embodiment.
  • the thermoforming packaging machine 1 comprises a machine frame 3 on which along a production direction P a pretreatment station 5, a forming station 7, an insertion path 9, a sealing station 11 and a cutting station 13 are arranged linearly one behind the other. It is also a transport device 15 is provided, which is adapted to a lower film web 17 along the transport direction P through the pretreatment station 5 on to the forming station 7, still further to the insertion path 9, still further to the sealing station 11 and finally to the cutting station 13 promote.
  • Fig. 2 shows a schematic side view of the thermoforming packaging machine 1 in the direction A (see Fig. 1 ).
  • the transport device 15 comprises on both sides of the lower film web 17 arranged staple chains 19 which grip the lower film web 17 on both sides by means of clamping elements 21.
  • a drive device 23 for the staple chains 19 By means of a drive device 23 for the staple chains 19, the lower film web 17 is conveyed along the production direction P.
  • the staple chains 19 are guided on both sides between upper and lower guide rails of the machine frame 3.
  • the pretreatment station 5 is designed to pretreat the lower film web 17 before it reaches the forming station 7.
  • the forming station 7 downstream of the pretreatment station 5 with respect to the production direction P comprises a forming tool 25 for forming depressions 27 in the lower film web 17 by deep-drawing.
  • the molding tool 25 may include a molding tool top and a mold bottom that are movable relative to each other for deep drawing the grooves 27 with respect to a vertical direction.
  • insertion path 9 formed in the lower film web 17 wells 27 are filled with products to be packaged 29. The filling of the wells 27 can be done automatically or manually.
  • the products 29 are conveyed from the processing station 33, such as a food slicer, to the infeed conveyor 9 by means of a feed belt 31 which runs above the forming station 7 parallel to the direction of production P.
  • the sealing station 11 comprises a sealing tool 37, which preferably comprises a sealing tool upper part and a sealing tool lower part movable perpendicularly thereto along a vertical direction.
  • the packages are cut in the cutting station 13 from the film composite, so that the finished and separated packaging 39 can then be removed by means of a conveyor 41.
  • the cutting station 13 comprises a cross-cutting device 43 and a longitudinal cutting device 45.
  • a film receptacle 47 for receiving a lower film supply roll 49 relative to the production direction P of the thermoforming packaging machine 1 is laterally offset.
  • the film holder 47 is offset from the production direction P by 90 °.
  • the removal direction E, along which the lower film web 17 leaves the lower film supply roll 49, is perpendicular to the production direction P.
  • the film receptacle 47 is arranged on the other side of the thermoforming packaging machine 1.
  • the angle between the removal direction E and the production direction P could also deviate from 90 °.
  • the laterally staggered arrangement of the film receptacle 47 saves installation space along the production direction P. In the example of use shown, this makes it possible to move the processing station 33 closer to the beginning of the thermoforming packaging machine 1.
  • the film holder 47 can be arranged so that it is particularly easily accessible for changing the lower film supply roll 49.
  • a deflection unit 51 is provided.
  • the deflecting unit 51 is configured to deflect the lower film web 17 before reaching the pretreatment station 5 with respect to a vertical axis V by an angle a.
  • the lower film web 17 is deflected by the deflection unit 51 from the removal direction E in an intermediate direction Z, which is anti-parallel to the production direction P.
  • the deflection unit 51 Since the deflection unit 51 according to the invention is located at least partially under the pretreatment station 5, details of the deflection in FIG Fig. 1 not visible. In Fig. 3 Therefore, the deflection of the lower film web 17 by the deflection 51 is shown schematically in plan view, wherein adjacent elements of the thermoforming packaging machine 1 are not shown.
  • the lower film web 17 reaches the deflection unit 51 along the removal direction E.
  • the lower film web 17 is then moved with respect to the vertical axis V (in FIG Fig. 3 perpendicular to the plane) is deflected by the angle a in the intermediate direction Z, which in the embodiment shown is anti-parallel to the direction of production P.
  • the lower film web 17 is fed to the deflecting unit 51 along the removal direction E, along which the lower film web 17 leaves the film receptacle 47. But this is not absolutely necessary. It would also be conceivable, for example, for further deflecting units to be provided between the film receptacle 47 and the deflecting unit 51 in order to be able to position the film receptacle 47 essentially completely free.
  • the lower film web 17 is deflected by the deflection unit 51 by substantially 90 °.
  • the deflecting unit 51 deflects the lower film web 17 by a different angle, for example by an angle between 60 ° and 120 ° or an angle between 80 ° and 100 °.
  • the deflection edge 53 of the deflection unit 51 can, for example, as in Fig. 4 represented by a cylindrical body 55 may be formed, around which the lower film web 17 is deflected.
  • the cylindrical body 55 comprises compressed air openings 57 through which compressed air escapes during operation, so that an air cushion is formed between the cylindrical body 55 and the lower film web 17.
  • the lower film web 17 can be redirected friction reduced.
  • the machine frame 3 comprises in the embodiment shown below the pre-treatment station 5, a recess portion 59 in which the deflection unit 51 is arranged.
  • the recess region 59 is formed by the fact that the machine frame 3 has a cantilever 61, which protrudes counter to the direction of production P, and on which the pretreatment station 5 is arranged.
  • the deflection unit 51 is provided in the recess area 59 and is located at least partially below the pretreatment station 5. In this way, the installation space under the pretreatment station 5 is used to realize the deflection of the sub-web 17.
  • the extension length of the thermoforming packaging machine 1 along the production direction P can thus be reduced.
  • the diverter unit 51 is provided entirely below the boom 61 of the machine frame 3 and below the pretreatment station 5.
  • parts of the deflection unit 51 protrude laterally or along the production direction P over the extension arm 61 and / or beyond the pretreatment station 5.
  • the deflection unit 51 is at least half, at least 75% or completely below the pretreatment station 5 or the boom 61st
  • the thermoforming packaging machine 1 further comprises an introduction device 63, which is adapted to the lower film web 17 after being deflected by the deflecting unit 51 in the Initiate pretreatment station 5.
  • the introduction device 63 does not necessarily convey the lower film web 17 itself into the pretreatment station 5. It is sufficient if it aligns the lower film web 17 so that it is introduced into the normal production process of the thermoforming packaging machine 1, that is taken up by the transport device 15 for conveying.
  • the introduction device 63 comprises a plurality of horizontally oriented deflection rollers 65.
  • the introduction device 63 is also at least partially disposed below the pretreatment station 5 and / or the boom 61 in order to further save installation space.
  • the introduction device 63, in particular its deflection rollers 65 may be attached to the machine frame 3.
  • the sub-web 17 in Fig. 2 leaves the deflector 51 along a direction which is at least in projection from the top of the thermoforming packaging machine 1 in anti-parallel to the direction of production P.
  • the lower film web 17 leaves the deflection unit 51 along a direction which, at least in projection from above, extends parallel to the production direction P on the thermoforming packaging machine 1.
  • This case is in Fig. 2 shown with dashed lines for the lower film web 17, wherein the corresponding pulleys of the inlet 63 for this variant, for the sake of clarity, are not shown.
  • the pre-treatment station 5 comprises a preheating station 67 for preheating the sub-web 17 prior to reaching the forming station 7 to facilitate deep drawing by the forming station 7.
  • the pre-treatment station 5 comprises a perforation or slitting unit 69 for punching or slitting the sub-web 17.
  • slits or holes may be evacuated from the packages in the sealing station 11 prior to sealing the packages or a protective gas atmosphere are introduced, so that the products can be packaged under vacuum or inert gas atmosphere.
  • the illustrated hole or slot unit 69 comprises a suction device 71 for sucking off film residues resulting from the punching or slitting of the lower film web 17 so that they can not fall onto the lower film web 17 in the region of the deflection unit 51.
  • a suction device 71 for sucking off film residues resulting from the punching or slitting of the lower film web 17 so that they can not fall onto the lower film web 17 in the region of the deflection unit 51.
  • a sheet metal for collecting film residues could simply be mounted between the pretreatment station 5 and the deflection unit 51.
  • the pre-treatment station 5 comprises only one preheating station 67 or one perforating or slot unit 69, but not both.
  • the punch or slot unit 69 could be integrated in the forming station 7 or omitted altogether.
  • a perforating or slitting unit 69 or a preheating station 67 are particularly well suited to provide underneath the deflection unit 51, since they have a relatively low overall height compared to, for example, the forming station 7 or the sealing station 11.
  • the pretreatment station 5 alternatively or additionally comprises a different machine unit for pretreating the lower film web 17.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Dispersion Chemistry (AREA)
  • Containers And Plastic Fillers For Packaging (AREA)

Abstract

Die Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine (1) umfasst eine Folienaufnahme (47) zum Aufnehmen einer Unterfolien-Vorratsrolle (49) und entlang einer Produktionsrichtung (P) hintereinander eine Vorbehandlungsstation (5) zum Vorbehandeln der Unterfolienbahn (17), eine Formstation (7) zum Ausbilden von Mulden (27) in der Unterfolienbahn (17) durch Tiefziehen, eine Einlegestrecke (9) zum Befüllen der Mulden (27) mit Produkten (29) und eine Siegelstation (11) zum Verschließen der Mulden (27) mit einer Oberfolie (35). Eine Transporteinrichtung (15) ist dazu ausgelegt, die Unterfolienbahn (17) entlang der Produktionsrichtung (P) durch die Vorbehandlungsstation (5), weiter zu der Formstation (7), noch weiter zu der Einlegestrecke (9) und schließlich zu der Siegelstation (11) zu fördern. Eine Umlenkeinheit (51), die zumindest teilweise unterhalb der Vorbehandlungsstation (5) angeordnet ist, ist dazu konfiguriert, die Unterfolienbahn (17) vor Erreichen der Vorbehandlungsstation (5) bezüglich einer vertikalen Achse (V) um einen Winkel (a) umzulenken.The thermoforming packaging machine (1) comprises a film receptacle (47) for receiving a lower film supply roll (49) and along a production direction (P) in succession a pretreatment station (5) for pretreating the lower film web (17), a forming station (7) for forming depressions (27) in the lower film web (17) by deep drawing, an insertion path (9) for filling the wells (27) with products (29) and a sealing station (11) for closing the wells (27) with a top film (35). A transport device (15) is designed to move the lower film web (17) along the production direction (P) through the pretreatment station (5), further to the forming station (7), further to the insertion path (9) and finally to the sealing station (11 ) to promote. A diverter (51) located at least partially below the pre-treatment station (5) is configured to divert the sub-web (17) by an angle (a) with respect to a vertical axis (V) prior to reaching the pretreatment station (5).

Description

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft das Gebiet der Tiefziehverpackungsmaschinen. Insbesondere betrifft die Erfindung eine Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine zum Verpacken von Lebensmittelprodukten.The present invention relates to the field of thermoforming packaging machines. In particular, the invention relates to a thermoforming packaging machine for packaging food products.

Beispielweise aus der DE 10 2012 018 974 A1 ist eine Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine bekannt, bei der eine Vorheizstation, eine Formstation, eine Einlegestrecke, eine Siegelstation und eine Schneidstation entlang einer linearen Produktionsrichtung hintereinander angeordnet sind. Eine Unterfolienbahn wird von einer bezüglich der Produktionsrichtung kollinear vor der Vorheizstation an einer Folienaufnahme vorgesehenen Vorratsrolle abgezogen und dann mittels einer Transporteinrichtung entlang der Produktionsrichtung gefördert und den einzelnen Bearbeitungsstationen zugeführt. Nachdem die Unterfolienbahn an der Vorheizstation zum Erleichtern eines Tiefziehvorgangs vorgeheizt wurde, werden an der Formstation mittels Tiefziehens Verpackungsmulden in der Unterfolienbahn ausgeformt. In der Einlegestrecke werden die Verpackungsmulden mit zu verpackenden Produkten befüllt. Die befüllten Verpackungsmulden werden anschließend in der Siegelstation mit einer Oberfolie verschlossen. An der Schneidstation werden die verschlossenen Verpackungen aus dem Folienverbund gelöst, so dass sie anschließend separat abtransportiert werden können.For example, from the DE 10 2012 018 974 A1 a deep-drawn packaging machine is known in which a preheating station, a forming station, an insertion path, a sealing station and a cutting station are arranged one behind the other along a linear production direction. A lower film web is withdrawn from a supply roll provided collinearly in front of the preheating station on a film receiver with respect to the production direction and then conveyed along the production direction by means of a transport device and fed to the individual processing stations. After the sub-sheet web has been preheated at the preheating station to facilitate a deep drawing operation, packaging trays are formed in the lower sheet web at the forming station by deep-drawing. In the insertion section, the packaging trays are filled with products to be packaged. The filled packaging trays are then sealed in the sealing station with a top film. At the cutting station, the sealed packages are released from the film composite so that they can subsequently be removed separately.

Nachteilig an der bekannten Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine ist der hohe Platzbedarf entlang der Produktionsrichtung. Um ein häufiges Wechseln zu vermeiden, wäre es prinzipiell zudem vorteilhaft, Unterfolien-Vorratsrollen mit viel Material und einem damit einhergehenden großen Durchmesser zu verwenden. Hierdurch erhöht sich der Platzbedarf entlang der Produktionsrichtung jedoch weiter. Der Platzbedarf entlang der Produktionsrichtungen ist für viele Anwendungen besonders relevant, da oftmals bezüglich der Produktionsrichtung vor der eigentlichen Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine weitere Vorrichtungen angeordnet werden sollen. Beispielweise kann eine Aufschneidevorrichtung für zu verpackende Lebensmittel vor der Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine angeordnet werden. Die aufgeschnittenen Lebensmittel, beispielsweise Wurst- oder Käsescheiben, können dann mittels eines parallel zur Produktionsrichtung über die Formstation verlaufenden Zuführbands, wie es beispielsweise aus der EP 3 202 671 A2 bekannt ist, zu der Einlegestrecke transportiert werden.A disadvantage of the known thermoforming packaging machine is the high space requirement along the production direction. In principle, in order to avoid frequent changes, it would also be advantageous to use under-film supply rolls with a large amount of material and an associated large diameter. As a result, however, the space required along the production direction continues to increase. The space requirement along the production directions is particularly relevant for many applications, since often more devices are to be arranged with respect to the production direction before the actual thermoforming packaging machine. For example, a slicer for food to be packaged may be placed in front of the thermoforming packaging machine. The sliced foods, such as sausage or cheese slices, can then by means of a parallel to the direction of production on the forming station extending feed belt, as for example from the EP 3 202 671 A2 is known to be transported to the Einlegestrecke.

Es ist Aufgabe der Erfindung, eine Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine bereitzustellen, die platzsparend aufstellbar ist.It is an object of the invention to provide a thermoforming packaging machine that can be set up to save space.

Diese Aufgabe wird durch den Gegenstand von Anspruch 1 gelöst. Die abhängigen Ansprüche geben vorteilhafte Ausführungsformen der Erfindung an.This object is solved by the subject matter of claim 1. The dependent claims indicate advantageous embodiments of the invention.

Eine erfindungsgemäße Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine definiert eine vorzugsweise lineare Produktionsrichtung und umfasst eine Folienaufnahme zum Aufnehmen einer Unterfolien-Vorratsrolle, eine Vorbehandlungsstation, eine Formstation, eine Einlegestrecke und eine Siegelstation. Die Vorbehandlungsstation ist zum Vorbehandeln der Unterfolienbahn konfiguriert. Die Formstation ist der Vorbehandlungsstation bezüglich der Produktionsrichtung nachgeordnet und umfasst ein Formwerkzeug zum Ausbilden von Mulden in der Unterfolienbahn durch Tiefziehen. Das Formwerkzeug kann insbesondere ein Formwerkzeugoberteil und ein relativ dazu bewegliches Formwerkzeugunterteil umfassen, zwischen denen die Unterfolienbahn tiefgezogen wird. Die Einlegestrecke ist der Formstation bezüglich der Produktionsrichtung nachgeordnet. In der Einlegestrecke werden die in der Unterfolienbahn ausgebildeten Mulden mit zu verpackenden Produkten befüllt. Die Siegelstation ist der Einlegestrecke bezüglich der Produktionsrichtung nachgeordnet und umfasst ein Siegelwerkzeug zum Verschließen der Mulden mit einer Oberfolie. Insbesondere kann das Siegelwerkzeug ein Siegelwerkzeugoberteil und ein relativ dazu bewegliches Siegelwerkzeugunterteil umfassen. Die Oberfolie kann beispielsweise mittels Ultraschallschweißens, durch Wärmeverschweißen oder anderweitig an die Unterfolie angesiegelt werden. Die Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine umfasst des Weiteren eine Transporteinrichtung, die dazu ausgelegt ist, die Unterfolienbahn entlang der Produktionsrichtung durch die Vorbehandlungsstation, weiter zu der Formstation, noch weiter zu der Einlegestrecke und schließlich zu der Siegelstation zu fördern. Die Transporteinrichtung wird vorzugsweise getaktet betrieben.A thermoforming packaging machine according to the invention defines a preferably linear production direction and comprises a film receptacle for receiving a bottom film supply roll, a pretreatment station, a forming station, an insertion path and a sealing station. The pre-treatment station is configured to pretreat the sub-web. The forming station is downstream of the pretreatment station with respect to the production direction and comprises a forming tool for forming depressions in the sub-film web by deep drawing. In particular, the molding tool may comprise a mold upper part and a mold lower part movable relative thereto, between which the lower film web is deep-drawn. The insertion path is arranged downstream of the forming station with respect to the production direction. In the insertion path, the depressions formed in the lower film web are filled with products to be packed. The sealing station is arranged downstream of the insertion path with respect to the production direction and comprises a sealing tool for closing the hollows with a top film. In particular, the sealing tool may comprise a sealing tool upper part and a sealing tool lower part movable relative thereto. The top film can be sealed to the bottom film, for example by means of ultrasonic welding, heat welding or otherwise. The thermoforming packaging machine further comprises a transport means adapted to convey the sub-web web along the direction of production through the pretreatment station, further to the forming station, further to the infeed path and finally to the sealing station. The transport device is preferably operated in a clocked manner.

Die Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine umfasst zudem eine Umlenkeinheit, die dazu konfiguriert ist, die Unterfolienbahn vor Erreichen der Vorbehandlungsstation bezüglich einer vertikalen Achse um einen Winkel umzulenken. Die Unterfolienbahn wird durch die Umlenkeinheit umgelenkt, nachdem sie die Folienaufnahme verlassen hat und bevor sie die Vorbehandlungsstation erreicht. Die Umlenkeinheit ermöglicht es, die Folienaufnahme freier zu positionieren. Insbesondere muss die Folienaufnahme nicht mehr bezüglich der Produktionsrichtung linear vor den einzelnen Stationen der Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine angeordnet sein. So lässt sich die Gesamtlänge der Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine entlang der Produktionsrichtung verringern. Zudem kann die Folienaufnahme so positioniert werden, dass sie zum Wechseln der Unterfolien-Vorratsrolle besser zugänglich ist.The thermoforming packaging machine also includes a diverter unit configured to deflect the sub-web of web about an angle with respect to a vertical axis prior to reaching the pre-treatment station. The sub-web is deflected by the diverter after leaving the film receiver and before reaching the pretreatment station. The deflection unit makes it possible to position the film holder more freely. In particular, the film holder no longer has to be arranged linearly in front of the individual stations of the thermoforming packaging machine with respect to the production direction. This reduces the overall length of the thermoforming packaging machine along the production direction. In addition, the film holder can be positioned so that it is more accessible for changing the lower film supply roll.

Die Umlenkeinheit ist zumindest teilweise unterhalb der Vorbehandlungsstation angeordnet. Hierdurch lässt sich der Platzbedarf entlang der Produktionsrichtung weiter verringern. Die Umlenkeinheit nutzt Bauraum unter der Vorbehandlungsstation und trägt somit nicht oder nur in geringem Maße zu der Längenerstreckung der Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine bei. Die Umlenkeinheit ist unter der Vorbehandlungsstation geschützt und kompakt verstaut.The deflection unit is arranged at least partially below the pretreatment station. As a result, the space requirement along the production direction can be further reduced. The deflection unit uses space under the pre-treatment station and thus does not contribute or only to a small extent to the length extension of the thermoforming packaging machine. The diverter unit is protected under the pretreatment station and stowed compactly.

Vorzugsweise ist die Folienaufnahme versetzt zu der Produktionsrichtung vorgesehen. Die Folienaufnahme kann bezüglich der Produktionsrichtung wahlweise auf die linke Seite oder die rechte Seite versetzt sein. Außer dem verringerten Platzbedarf in Produktionsrichtung wird durch ein versetztes Vorsehen der Folienaufnahme auch die Zugänglichkeit der Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine an ihrem Stirnende verbessert.Preferably, the film holder is provided offset to the production direction. The film holder can be offset with respect to the production direction optionally on the left side or the right side. In addition to the reduced space requirement in the production direction, the accessibility of the thermoforming packaging machine at its front end is improved by a staggered provision of the film holder.

Die Umlenkeinheit kann dazu konfiguriert sein, die Unterfolienbahn bezüglich der vertikalen Achse um einen Winkel zwischen 60° und 120°, einen Winkel zwischen 80° und 100° oder einen Winkel von zumindest im Wesentlichen 90° umzulenken. Somit kann die Folienaufnahme so angeordnet sein, dass die Unterfolienbahn im Wesentlichen entlang einer senkrecht zur Produktionsrichtung stehenden Richtung von der Unterfolien-Vorratsrolle abgezogen wird. Es wäre aber auch denkbar, dass der unterhalb der Vorbehandlungsstation vorgesehenen Umlenkeinheit vorgeordnet weitere Umlenkeinheiten vorgesehen sind, so dass die Positionierung der Folienaufnahme im Wesentlichen frei an die jeweiligen Platzvorgaben angepasst werden kann.The deflecting unit may be configured to deflect the sub-sheet relative to the vertical axis by an angle between 60 ° and 120 °, an angle between 80 ° and 100 °, or an angle of at least substantially 90 °. Thus, the film receptacle can be arranged so that the lower film web is withdrawn from the lower film supply roll substantially along a direction perpendicular to the direction of production. However, it would also be conceivable for the deflecting unit provided below the pretreatment station to be provided in front of further deflecting units so that the positioning of the film receptacle can be adapted essentially freely to the respective space specifications.

Vorzugsweise ist die Umlenkeinheit so konfiguriert, dass eine Laufrichtung der Unterfolienbahn nach dem Umlenken durch die Umlenkeinheit zumindest in Projektion von oben auf die Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine parallel oder antiparallel zu der Produktionsrichtung ist. Somit kann die Unterfolienbahn auf einfache Art und Weise zum Einbringen in den Produktionsablauf der Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine vorbereitet werden.Preferably, the deflection unit is configured such that a running direction of the lower film web after being deflected by the deflection unit, at least in projection from the top of the thermoforming packaging machine, is parallel or antiparallel to the production direction. Thus, the sub-sheet can be easily prepared for incorporation into the production process of the thermoforming packaging machine.

Die Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine kann zudem eine Einleiteinrichtung umfassen, die dazu ausgelegt ist, die Unterfolienbahn nach dem Umlenken durch die Umlenkeinheit in den Produktionsablauf der Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine und/oder in die Vorbehandlungsstation einzuleiten. Die Einleiteinrichtung kann die Unterfolienbahn auf geeigneter Höhe und in geeigneter Orientierung an die Transporteinrichtung übergeben, so dass ohne Weiteres auf eine Transporteinrichtung zurückgegriffen werden kann, wie sie aus bekannten Tiefziehverpackungsmaschinen mit bezüglich der Produktionsrichtung linear vorgeordneter Folienaufnahme bekannt sind.The thermoforming packaging machine may additionally comprise an introduction device which is designed to introduce the sub-film web into the production sequence of the thermoforming packaging machine and / or into the pretreatment station after being deflected by the deflection unit. The introduction device can transfer the lower film web at a suitable height and in a suitable orientation to the transport device, so that it is readily possible to resort to a transport device as known from known thermoforming packaging machines with a linearly superposed film receptacle with respect to the production direction.

Vorzugsweise umfasst die Einleiteinrichtung eine oder mehrere, insbesondere horizontal ausgerichtete Umlenkrollen. Über die Umlenkrollen kann die Unterfolienbahn nach dem Umlenken durch die Umlenkeinheit auf eine geeignete Höhe geführt werden, um der Vorbehandlungsstation zugeführt zu werden. Obwohl die Umlenkeinheit zumindest teilweise unterhalb der Vorbehandlungsstation vorliegt, kann die Unterfolienbahn so der Vorbehandlungsstation entlang der Produktionsrichtung zugeführt werden.Preferably, the introduction device comprises one or more, in particular horizontally oriented deflection rollers. About the pulleys, the sub-sheet can be performed after deflecting by the deflection to an appropriate height to be supplied to the pretreatment station. Although the deflection unit is present at least partially below the pretreatment station, the lower film web can thus be fed to the pretreatment station along the production direction.

Die Einleiteinrichtung kann zumindest teilweise unterhalb der Vorbehandlungsstation angeordnet sein. So kann der Bauraum unterhalb der Vorbehandlungsstation noch weiter ausgenutzt werden.The introduction device can be arranged at least partially below the pretreatment station. Thus, the space below the pre-treatment station can still be exploited.

Vorzugsweise umfasst die Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine ein Maschinengestell, an dem die Vorbehandlungsstation, die Formstation, die Einlegestrecke und die Siegelstation entlang der Produktionsrichtung hintereinander angeordnet sind. Das Maschinengestell kann unterhalb der Vorbehandlungsstation einen Aussparungsbereich aufweisen oder definieren, in dem die Umlenkeinheit zumindest teilweise angeordnet ist. Vorzugsweise ist die Umlenkeinheit vollständig in dem Aussparungsbereich des Maschinengestells vorgesehen. Es wäre aber auch denkbar, dass die Umlenkeinheit seitlich oder nach vorne über das Maschinengestell hinausragt.Preferably, the thermoforming packaging machine comprises a machine frame, on which the pretreatment station, the forming station, the insertion path and the sealing station are arranged one behind the other along the production direction. The machine frame can have or define a recess region below the pretreatment station, in which the deflection unit is at least partially arranged. Preferably, the deflection unit is completely provided in the recess area of the machine frame. However, it would also be conceivable for the deflection unit to protrude laterally or forwards beyond the machine frame.

Das Maschinengestell kann einen entgegen der Produktionsrichtung überstehend ausgebildeten Ausleger aufweisen, an dem die Vorbehandlungsstation angeordnet ist. Die Umlenkeinheit kann zumindest teilweise unterhalb des Auslegers angeordnet sein. Durch das Vorsehen eines Auslegers des Maschinengestells lässt sich der Raum über der Umlenkeinheit zum Anbringen der Vorbehandlungsstation nutzen.The machine frame may have a counter to the production direction protruding boom on which the pretreatment station is arranged. The deflecting unit can be arranged at least partially below the cantilever. By providing a jib of the machine frame, the space above the diverter unit can be used to attach the pre-treatment station.

Vorzugsweise ist die Einleiteinrichtung an dem Maschinengestell angebracht. So kann die Einleiteinrichtung einfach und platzsparend in die Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine integriert werden.Preferably, the introduction device is attached to the machine frame. Thus, the introduction device can be integrated into the thermoforming packaging machine in a simple and space-saving manner.

Die Vorbehandlungsstation kann beispielsweise eine Vorheizstation zum Vorheizen der Unterfolienbahn vor Erreichen der Formstation umfassen. Eine solche Vorheizstation kann im Vergleich zu der Formstation oder der Siegelstation relativ flach ausgebildet sein, so dass ein Vorsehen der Umlenkeinheit unter der Vorheizstation möglich ist, ohne das Maschinengestell im Bereich der Vorheizstation anheben zu müssen.The pretreatment station may comprise, for example, a preheating station for preheating the sub-web prior to reaching the forming station. Such a preheating station can be formed relatively flat compared to the forming station or the sealing station, so that a provision of the deflecting unit under the preheating station is possible without having to raise the machine frame in the preheating station.

Zusätzlich oder alternativ kann die Vorbehandlungsstation eine Loch- oder Schlitzeinheit umfassen, die dazu konfiguriert ist, die Unterfolienbahn zu lochen oder zu schlitzen. Die Loch- oder Schlitzeinheit kann dazu ausgelegt sein, Löcher oder Schlitze in die Unterfolienbahn einzubringen, welche später in der Siegelstation dazu verwendet werden können, die Verpackungen vor dem Versiegeln zu evakuieren und/oder eine Schutzgasatmosphäre in die Verpackungen einzubringen, beispielweise um die Haltbarkeit der zu verpackenden Produkte zu erhöhen.Additionally or alternatively, the pre-treatment station may include a perforate or slot unit configured to punch or slit the sub-web. The hole or slot unit may be configured to insert holes or slots in the sub-web which may later be used in the sealing station to evacuate the packages prior to sealing and / or to introduce a protective gas atmosphere into the packages, for example, durability of the packages to increase the product to be packaged.

Vorzugsweise ist die Loch- oder Schlitzeinheit in das Maschinengestell integriert und/oder daran angebracht. Die Loch- oder Schlitzeinheit kann im Vergleich zu der Formstation oder der Siegelstation derart flach ausgebildet sein, dass das Vorsehen der Umlenkeinheit unter der Loch- oder Schlitzeinheit möglich ist, ohne die Bauhöhe der Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine im Bereich der Loch- oder Schlitzeinheit anzuheben.Preferably, the hole or slot unit is integrated with and / or attached to the machine frame. The perforating or slitting unit may be made so flat as compared to the forming station or the sealing station that the provision of the deflecting unit under the perforating or slitting unit is possible without raising the height of the thermoforming packaging machine in the area of the perforating or slitting unit.

Vorzugsweise umfasst die Loch- oder Schlitzeinheit eine Abfalleinrichtung, die zum Sammeln und/oder Abführen von bei dem Lochen oder Schlitzen der Unterfolienbahn entstehenden Folienresten konfiguriert ist. So kann verhindert werden, dass bei dem Lochen oder Schlitzen der Unterfolienbahn entstehende Folienreste im Bereich der Umlenkeinheit auf die Unterfolienbahn fallen.Preferably, the hole or slot unit comprises a waste device configured to collect and / or remove film residues resulting from the punching or slitting of the sub-web. Thus it can be prevented that foil residues arising in the area of the deflection unit fall onto the lower film web during the punching or slitting of the lower film web.

Vorzugsweise umfasst die Loch- oder Schlitzeinheit eine Absaugeinrichtung zum Absaugen von bei dem Lochen oder Schlitzen der Unterfolienbahn entstehenden Folienresten. So können die Folienreste automatisch und zuverlässig entfernt werden.Preferably, the perforating or slitting unit comprises a suction device for sucking off film residues formed during the perforation or slitting of the lower film web. So the film residues can be removed automatically and reliably.

Im Folgenden wird die Erfindung anhand eines Ausführungsbeispiels unter Bezugnahme auf die Figuren erläutert. Dabei zeigt

Figur 1
eine schematische Draufsicht auf eine Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine gemäß einer Ausführungsform;
Figur 2
eine schematische Seitenansicht auf die Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine aus Figur 1;
Figur 3
eine schematische Darstellung der Wirkungsweise einer Umlenkeinheit der Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine gemäß der Ausführungsform in Draufsicht; und
Figur 4
eine schematische ausschnittsweise Perspektivansicht auf eine beispielhafte Umlenkeinheit der Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine gemäß der Ausführungsform.
In the following the invention will be explained with reference to an embodiment with reference to the figures. It shows
FIG. 1
a schematic plan view of a thermoforming packaging machine according to an embodiment;
FIG. 2
a schematic side view of the thermoforming packaging machine of Figure 1;
FIG. 3
a schematic representation of the operation of a deflection of the thermoforming packaging machine according to the embodiment in plan view; and
FIG. 4
a schematic fragmentary perspective view of an exemplary deflection unit of the thermoforming packaging machine according to the embodiment.

Fig. 1 zeigt in Draufsicht eine Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine 1 gemäß einer Ausführungsform. Die Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine 1 umfasst ein Maschinengestell 3, an dem entlang einer Produktionsrichtung P eine Vorbehandlungsstation 5, eine Formstation 7, eine Einlegestrecke 9, eine Siegelstation 11 und eine Schneidstation 13 linear hintereinander angeordnet sind. Es ist zudem eine Transporteinrichtung 15 vorgesehen, die dazu ausgelegt ist, eine Unterfolienbahn 17 entlang der Transportrichtung P durch die Vorbehandlungsstation 5 weiter zu der Formstation 7, noch weiter zu der Einlegestrecke 9, noch weiter zu der Siegelstation 11 und schließlich zu der Schneidstation 13 zu fördern. Fig. 1 shows in plan view a thermoforming packaging machine 1 according to one embodiment. The thermoforming packaging machine 1 comprises a machine frame 3 on which along a production direction P a pretreatment station 5, a forming station 7, an insertion path 9, a sealing station 11 and a cutting station 13 are arranged linearly one behind the other. It is also a transport device 15 is provided, which is adapted to a lower film web 17 along the transport direction P through the pretreatment station 5 on to the forming station 7, still further to the insertion path 9, still further to the sealing station 11 and finally to the cutting station 13 promote.

Fig. 2 zeigt eine schematische Seitenansicht der Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine 1 in Blickrichtung A (siehe Fig. 1). In der dargestellten Ausführungsform umfasst die Transporteinrichtung 15 auf beiden Seiten der Unterfolienbahn 17 angeordnete Klammerketten 19, die die Unterfolienbahn 17 beidseitig mittels Klammerelementen 21 greifen. Mittels einer Antriebseinrichtung 23 für die Klammerketten 19 wird die Unterfolienbahn 17 entlang der Produktionsrichtung P gefördert. Die Klammerketten 19 sind beidseitig zwischen oberen und unteren Führungsschienen des Maschinengestells 3 geführt. Fig. 2 shows a schematic side view of the thermoforming packaging machine 1 in the direction A (see Fig. 1 ). In the illustrated embodiment, the transport device 15 comprises on both sides of the lower film web 17 arranged staple chains 19 which grip the lower film web 17 on both sides by means of clamping elements 21. By means of a drive device 23 for the staple chains 19, the lower film web 17 is conveyed along the production direction P. The staple chains 19 are guided on both sides between upper and lower guide rails of the machine frame 3.

Die Vorbehandlungsstation 5 ist zum Vorbehandeln der Unterfolienbahn 17 vor Erreichen der Formstation 7 ausgelegt. Die der Vorbehandlungsstation 5 bezüglich der Produktionsrichtung P nachgeordnete Formstation 7 umfasst ein Formwerkzeug 25 zum Ausbilden von Mulden 27 in der Unterfolienbahn 17 durch Tiefziehen. Das Formwerkzeug 25 kann insbesondere ein Formwerkzeugoberteil und ein Formwerkzeugunterteil aufweisen, die zum Tiefziehen der Mulden 27 bezüglich einer vertikalen Richtung relativ zueinander beweglich sind. In der der Formstation 7 bezüglich der Produktionsrichtung P nachgeordneten Einlegestrecke 9 werden die in der Unterfolienbahn 17 ausgebildeten Mulden 27 mit zu verpackenden Produkten 29 befüllt. Das Befüllen der Mulden 27 kann automatisch oder manuell geschehen. In der gezeigten Ausführungsform werden die Produkte 29 mittels eines Zuführbands 31, welches über der Formstation 7 parallel zur Produktionsrichtung P verläuft, von einer Verarbeitungsstation 33, wie beispielsweise einer Lebensmittelschneideeinrichtung, zu der Einlegestrecke 9 gefördert. In der der Einlegestrecke 9 bezüglich der Produktionsrichtung P nachgeordneten Siegelstation 11 werden die befüllten Mulden 27 mit einer Oberfolie 35 verschlossen. Hierzu umfasst die Siegelstation 11 ein Siegelwerkzeug 37, welches vorzugsweise ein Siegelwerkzeugoberteil und ein entlang einer vertikalen Richtung senkrecht dazu bewegliches Siegelwerkzeugunterteil umfasst. Nach dem Verschließen der Mulden 27 in der Siegelstation 11 werden die Verpackungen in der Schneidstation 13 aus dem Folienverbund ausgetrennt, so dass die fertiggestellten und separierten Verpackungen 39 anschließend mittels einer Fördereinrichtung 41 abtransportiert werden können. In der gezeigten Ausführungsform umfasst die Schneidstation 13 eine Querschnitteinrichtung 43 und eine Längsschnitteinrichtung 45.The pretreatment station 5 is designed to pretreat the lower film web 17 before it reaches the forming station 7. The forming station 7 downstream of the pretreatment station 5 with respect to the production direction P comprises a forming tool 25 for forming depressions 27 in the lower film web 17 by deep-drawing. In particular, the molding tool 25 may include a molding tool top and a mold bottom that are movable relative to each other for deep drawing the grooves 27 with respect to a vertical direction. In the forming station 7 downstream with respect to the direction of production P insertion path 9 formed in the lower film web 17 wells 27 are filled with products to be packaged 29. The filling of the wells 27 can be done automatically or manually. In the embodiment shown, the products 29 are conveyed from the processing station 33, such as a food slicer, to the infeed conveyor 9 by means of a feed belt 31 which runs above the forming station 7 parallel to the direction of production P. In the insertion path 9 with respect to the production direction P downstream sealing station 11, the filled wells 27 are closed with a top film 35. For this purpose, the sealing station 11 comprises a sealing tool 37, which preferably comprises a sealing tool upper part and a sealing tool lower part movable perpendicularly thereto along a vertical direction. After closing the troughs 27 in the sealing station 11, the packages are cut in the cutting station 13 from the film composite, so that the finished and separated packaging 39 can then be removed by means of a conveyor 41. In the embodiment shown, the cutting station 13 comprises a cross-cutting device 43 and a longitudinal cutting device 45.

Wie aus Fig. 1 ersichtlich, ist eine Folienaufnahme 47 zum Aufnehmen einer Unterfolien-Vorratsrolle 49 gegenüber der Produktionsrichtung P der Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine 1 seitlich versetzt angeordnet. Im gezeigten Ausführungsbeispiel ist die Folienaufnahme 47 gegenüber der Produktionsrichtung P um 90° versetzt angeordnet. Die Entnahmerichtung E, entlang der die Unterfolienbahn 17 die Unterfolien-Vorratsrolle 49 verlässt, steht zu der Produktionsrichtung P senkrecht. Es wäre selbstverständlich auch denkbar, dass die Folienaufnahme 47 auf der anderen Seite der Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine 1 angeordnet ist. Der Winkel zwischen der Entnahmerichtung E und der Produktionsrichtung P könnte auch von 90° abweichen. Durch das seitlich versetzte Anordnen der Folienaufnahme 47 wird entlang der Produktionsrichtung P Einbauraum eingespart. Im gezeigten Anwendungsbeispiel wird hierdurch ermöglicht, die Verarbeitungsstation 33 näher an den Anfang der Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine 1 heranzurücken. Zudem lässt sich die Folienaufnahme 47 so anordnen, dass sie zum Wechseln der Unterfolien-Vorratsrolle 49 besonders leicht zugänglich ist.How out Fig. 1 can be seen, a film receptacle 47 for receiving a lower film supply roll 49 relative to the production direction P of the thermoforming packaging machine 1 is laterally offset. In the illustrated embodiment, the film holder 47 is offset from the production direction P by 90 °. The removal direction E, along which the lower film web 17 leaves the lower film supply roll 49, is perpendicular to the production direction P. It would of course also be conceivable that the film receptacle 47 is arranged on the other side of the thermoforming packaging machine 1. The angle between the removal direction E and the production direction P could also deviate from 90 °. The laterally staggered arrangement of the film receptacle 47 saves installation space along the production direction P. In the example of use shown, this makes it possible to move the processing station 33 closer to the beginning of the thermoforming packaging machine 1. In addition, the film holder 47 can be arranged so that it is particularly easily accessible for changing the lower film supply roll 49.

Um die Unterfolienbahn 17 trotz der seitlich versetzt angeordneten Folienaufnahme 47 entlang der Produktionsrichtung P in den Produktionsablauf der Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine 1 einbringen zu können, ist eine Umlenkeinheit 51 vorgesehen. Die Umlenkeinheit 51 ist dazu konfiguriert, die Unterfolienbahn 17 vor Erreichen der Vorbehandlungsstation 5 bezüglich einer vertikalen Achse V um einen Winkel a umzulenken. In der gezeigten Ausführungsform wird die Unterfolienbahn 17 durch die Umlenkeinheit 51 von der Entnahmerichtung E in eine Zwischenrichtung Z umgelenkt, die antiparallel zur Produktionsrichtung P ist.In order to be able to bring the lower film web 17 into the production process of the thermoforming packaging machine 1 in spite of the laterally offset film receptacle 47 along the production direction P, a deflection unit 51 is provided. The deflecting unit 51 is configured to deflect the lower film web 17 before reaching the pretreatment station 5 with respect to a vertical axis V by an angle a. In the embodiment shown, the lower film web 17 is deflected by the deflection unit 51 from the removal direction E in an intermediate direction Z, which is anti-parallel to the production direction P.

Da sich die Umlenkeinheit 51 erfindungsgemäß zumindest teilweise unter der Vorbehandlungsstation 5 befindet, sind Details der Umlenkung in Fig. 1 nicht sichtbar. In Fig. 3 ist daher die Umlenkung der Unterfolienbahn 17 durch die Umlenkeinheit 51 schematisch in Draufsicht dargestellt, wobei benachbarte Elemente der Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine 1 nicht dargestellt sind. Die Unterfolienbahn 17 erreicht die Umlenkeinheit 51 entlang der Entnahmerichtung E. An einer Umlenkkante 53 der Umlenkeinheit 51 wird die Unterfolienbahn 17 dann bezüglich der vertikalen Achse V (in Fig. 3 senkrecht zur Zeichenebene) um den Winkel a in die Zwischenrichtung Z umgelenkt, welche in der gezeigten Ausführungsform antiparallel zur Produktionsrichtung P ist.Since the deflection unit 51 according to the invention is located at least partially under the pretreatment station 5, details of the deflection in FIG Fig. 1 not visible. In Fig. 3 Therefore, the deflection of the lower film web 17 by the deflection 51 is shown schematically in plan view, wherein adjacent elements of the thermoforming packaging machine 1 are not shown. The lower film web 17 reaches the deflection unit 51 along the removal direction E. At a deflection edge 53 of the deflection unit 51, the lower film web 17 is then moved with respect to the vertical axis V (in FIG Fig. 3 perpendicular to the plane) is deflected by the angle a in the intermediate direction Z, which in the embodiment shown is anti-parallel to the direction of production P.

In der dargestellten Variante wird die Unterfolienbahn 17 der Umlenkeinheit 51 entlang der Entnahmerichtung E zugeführt, entlang der die Unterfolienbahn 17 die Folienaufnahme 47 verlässt. Dies ist aber nicht zwingend notwendig. Es wäre beispielsweise auch denkbar, dass zwischen der Folienaufnahme 47 und der Umlenkeinheit 51 weitere Umlenkeinheiten vorgesehen sind, um die Folienaufnahme 47 im Wesentlichen völlig frei positionieren zu können. Bevorzugterweise wird die Unterfolienbahn 17 durch die Umlenkeinheit 51 um im Wesentlichen 90° umgelenkt. Abhängig davon, entlang welcher Richtung die Unterfolienbahn 17 die Umlenkeinheit 51 erreicht, kann es aber auch vorteilhaft sein, wenn die Umlenkeinheit 51 die Unterfolienbahn 17 um einen anderen Winkel umlenkt, beispielsweise um einen Winkel zwischen 60° und 120° oder einen Winkel zwischen 80° und 100°.In the illustrated variant, the lower film web 17 is fed to the deflecting unit 51 along the removal direction E, along which the lower film web 17 leaves the film receptacle 47. But this is not absolutely necessary. It would also be conceivable, for example, for further deflecting units to be provided between the film receptacle 47 and the deflecting unit 51 in order to be able to position the film receptacle 47 essentially completely free. Preferably, the lower film web 17 is deflected by the deflection unit 51 by substantially 90 °. Depending on the direction along which the lower film web 17 reaches the deflecting unit 51, it can also be advantageous if the deflecting unit 51 deflects the lower film web 17 by a different angle, for example by an angle between 60 ° and 120 ° or an angle between 80 ° and 100 °.

Die Umlenkkante 53 der Umlenkeinheit 51 kann beispielsweise, wie in Fig. 4 dargestellt, durch einen zylindrischen Körper 55 gebildet sein, um den herum die Unterfolienbahn 17 umgelenkt wird. Vorzugsweise umfasst der zylindrische Körper 55 Druckluftöffnungen 57, durch die im Betrieb Druckluft entweicht, so dass ein Luftpolster zwischen dem zylindrischen Körper 55 und der Unterfolienbahn 17 gebildet wird. So lässt sich die Unterfolienbahn 17 reibungsreduziert umlenken.The deflection edge 53 of the deflection unit 51 can, for example, as in Fig. 4 represented by a cylindrical body 55 may be formed, around which the lower film web 17 is deflected. Preferably, the cylindrical body 55 comprises compressed air openings 57 through which compressed air escapes during operation, so that an air cushion is formed between the cylindrical body 55 and the lower film web 17. Thus, the lower film web 17 can be redirected friction reduced.

Wie in Fig. 2 dargestellt, umfasst das Maschinengestell 3 in der gezeigten Ausführungsform unterhalb der Vorbehandlungsstation 5 einen Aussparungsbereich 59, in dem die Umlenkeinheit 51 angeordnet ist. Der Aussparungsbereich 59 ist dadurch gebildet, dass das Maschinengestell 3 einen entgegen der Produktionsrichtung P überstehend ausgebildeten Ausleger 61 aufweist, an dem die Vorbehandlungsstation 5 angeordnet ist. Die Umlenkeinheit 51 ist in dem Aussparungsbereich 59 vorgesehen und befindet sich zumindest teilweise unterhalb der Vorbehandlungsstation 5. Auf diese Art und Weise wird der Bauraum unter der Vorbehandlungsstation 5 genutzt, um die Umlenkung der Unterfolienbahn 17 zu realisieren. Die Erstreckungslänge der Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine 1 entlang der Produktionsrichtung P kann somit reduziert werden. In der dargestellten Ausführungsform ist die Umlenkeinheit 51 vollständig unter dem Ausleger 61 des Maschinengestells 3 und unter der Vorbehandlungsstation 5 vorgesehen. Es wäre aber auch denkbar, dass Teile der Umlenkeinheit 51 seitlich oder entlang der Produktionsrichtung P über den Ausleger 61 und/oder über die Vorbehandlungsstation 5 hinausstehen. Vorzugsweise liegt die Umlenkeinheit 51 zumindest zur Hälfte, zumindest zu 75 % oder vollständig unter der Vorbehandlungsstation 5 oder dem Ausleger 61.As in Fig. 2 illustrated, the machine frame 3 comprises in the embodiment shown below the pre-treatment station 5, a recess portion 59 in which the deflection unit 51 is arranged. The recess region 59 is formed by the fact that the machine frame 3 has a cantilever 61, which protrudes counter to the direction of production P, and on which the pretreatment station 5 is arranged. The deflection unit 51 is provided in the recess area 59 and is located at least partially below the pretreatment station 5. In this way, the installation space under the pretreatment station 5 is used to realize the deflection of the sub-web 17. The extension length of the thermoforming packaging machine 1 along the production direction P can thus be reduced. In the illustrated embodiment, the diverter unit 51 is provided entirely below the boom 61 of the machine frame 3 and below the pretreatment station 5. However, it would also be conceivable that parts of the deflection unit 51 protrude laterally or along the production direction P over the extension arm 61 and / or beyond the pretreatment station 5. Preferably, the deflection unit 51 is at least half, at least 75% or completely below the pretreatment station 5 or the boom 61st

Die Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine 1 umfasst des Weiteren eine Einleiteinrichtung 63, die dazu ausgelegt ist, die Unterfolienbahn 17 nach dem Umlenken durch die Umlenkeinheit 51 in die Vorbehandlungsstation 5 einzuleiten. Die Einleiteinrichtung 63 muss die Unterfolienbahn 17 nicht notwendigerweise selbst in die Vorbehandlungsstation 5 fördern. Es reicht aus, wenn sie die Unterfolienbahn 17 so ausrichtet, dass sie in den normalen Produktionsablauf der Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine 1 eingebracht wird, also von der Transporteinrichtung 15 zum Fördern aufgenommen wird. In der dargestellten Ausführungsform umfasst die Einleiteinrichtung 63 eine Mehrzahl von horizontal ausgerichteten Umlenkrollen 65. Vorzugsweise ist die Einleiteinrichtung 63 ebenfalls zumindest teilweise unter der Vorbehandlungsstation 5 und/oder dem Ausleger 61 angeordnet, um weiter Bauraum zu sparen. Die Einleiteinrichtung 63, insbesondere deren Umlenkrollen 65, kann am Maschinengestell 3 angebracht sein.The thermoforming packaging machine 1 further comprises an introduction device 63, which is adapted to the lower film web 17 after being deflected by the deflecting unit 51 in the Initiate pretreatment station 5. The introduction device 63 does not necessarily convey the lower film web 17 itself into the pretreatment station 5. It is sufficient if it aligns the lower film web 17 so that it is introduced into the normal production process of the thermoforming packaging machine 1, that is taken up by the transport device 15 for conveying. In the illustrated embodiment, the introduction device 63 comprises a plurality of horizontally oriented deflection rollers 65. Preferably, the introduction device 63 is also at least partially disposed below the pretreatment station 5 and / or the boom 61 in order to further save installation space. The introduction device 63, in particular its deflection rollers 65, may be attached to the machine frame 3.

In der Ausführung, in der die Unterfolienbahn 17 in Fig. 2 als durchgezogene Linie dargestellt ist, verlässt die Unterfolienbahn 17 die Umlenkeinrichtung 51 entlang einer Richtung, die zumindest in Projektion von oben auf die Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine 1 antiparallel zu der Produktionsrichtung P ist. Es wäre aber auch denkbar, dass die Unterfolienbahn 17 die Umlenkeinheit 51 entlang einer Richtung verlässt, die zumindest in Projektion von oben auf die Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine 1 parallel zur Produktionsrichtung P verläuft. Dieser Fall ist in Fig. 2 mit gestrichelten Linien für die Unterfolienbahn 17 dargestellt, wobei die entsprechenden Umlenkrollen der Einleiteinrichtung 63 für diese Variante der Übersichtlichkeit halber nicht dargestellt sind.In the embodiment in which the sub-web 17 in Fig. 2 is shown as a solid line, the sub-web 17 leaves the deflector 51 along a direction which is at least in projection from the top of the thermoforming packaging machine 1 in anti-parallel to the direction of production P. However, it would also be conceivable that the lower film web 17 leaves the deflection unit 51 along a direction which, at least in projection from above, extends parallel to the production direction P on the thermoforming packaging machine 1. This case is in Fig. 2 shown with dashed lines for the lower film web 17, wherein the corresponding pulleys of the inlet 63 for this variant, for the sake of clarity, are not shown.

In der dargestellten Ausführungsform umfasst die Vorbehandlungsstation 5 eine Vorheizstation 67 zum Vorheizen der Unterfolienbahn 17 vor Erreichen der Formstation 7, um das Tiefziehen durch die Formstation 7 zu erleichtern. Zusätzlich umfasst die Vorbehandlungsstation 5 in der gezeigten Ausführungsform eine Loch- oder Schlitzeinheit 69 zum Lochen oder Schlitzen der Unterfolienbahn 17. Durch mittels der Loch- oder Schlitzeinheit 69 eingebrachte Schlitze oder Löcher kann in der Siegelstation 11 vor dem Versiegeln der Verpackungen Gas aus den Verpackungen abgesaugt oder eine Schutzgasatmosphäre eingebracht werden, so dass die Produkte unter Vakuum oder Schutzgasatmosphäre verpackt werden können. Die dargestellte Loch- oder Schlitzeinheit 69 umfasst eine Absaugeinrichtung 71 zum Absaugen von bei dem Lochen oder Schlitzen der Unterfolienbahn 17 entstehenden Folienresten, so dass diese nicht im Bereich der Umlenkeinheit 51 auf die Unterfolienbahn 17 fallen können. Ein Absaugen der Folienreste ist aber nicht zwingend erforderlich und es könnte auch eine anderweitig ausgestaltete Abfalleinrichtung zum Sammeln und/oder Abführen von bei dem Lochen oder Schlitzen der Unterfolienbahn 17 entstehenden Folienresten vorgesehen sein. Im einfachsten Fall könnte zwischen der Vorbehandlungsstation 5 und der Umlenkeinheit 51 einfach ein Blech zum Auffangen von Folienresten angebracht sein.In the illustrated embodiment, the pre-treatment station 5 comprises a preheating station 67 for preheating the sub-web 17 prior to reaching the forming station 7 to facilitate deep drawing by the forming station 7. In addition, in the shown embodiment, the pre-treatment station 5 comprises a perforation or slitting unit 69 for punching or slitting the sub-web 17. By means of the slit or holes 69, slits or holes may be evacuated from the packages in the sealing station 11 prior to sealing the packages or a protective gas atmosphere are introduced, so that the products can be packaged under vacuum or inert gas atmosphere. The illustrated hole or slot unit 69 comprises a suction device 71 for sucking off film residues resulting from the punching or slitting of the lower film web 17 so that they can not fall onto the lower film web 17 in the region of the deflection unit 51. However, it is not absolutely necessary to suck off the film residues and it would also be possible to provide an otherwise configured waste device for collecting and / or removing film residues arising during the punching or slitting of the lower film web 17. In the simplest case, a sheet metal for collecting film residues could simply be mounted between the pretreatment station 5 and the deflection unit 51.

Es ist auch denkbar, dass die Vorbehandlungsstation 5 nur entweder eine Vorheizstation 67 oder eine Loch- oder Schlitzeinheit 69 umfasst, nicht aber beides. Beispielsweise könnte die Loch- oder Schlitzeinheit 69 in der Formstation 7 integriert sein oder ganz weggelassen werden. Eine Loch- oder Schlitzeinheit 69 oder eine Vorheizstation 67 eignen sich besonders gut, um darunter die Umlenkeinheit 51 vorzusehen, da sie im Vergleich zu beispielsweise der Formstation 7 oder der Siegelstation 11 eine relativ geringe Bauhöhe aufweisen. Es wäre aber auch denkbar, dass die Vorbehandlungsstation 5 alternativ oder zusätzlich eine andere Maschineneinheit zum Vorbehandeln der Unterfolienbahn 17 umfasst.It is also conceivable that the pre-treatment station 5 comprises only one preheating station 67 or one perforating or slot unit 69, but not both. For example, the punch or slot unit 69 could be integrated in the forming station 7 or omitted altogether. A perforating or slitting unit 69 or a preheating station 67 are particularly well suited to provide underneath the deflection unit 51, since they have a relatively low overall height compared to, for example, the forming station 7 or the sealing station 11. However, it would also be conceivable that the pretreatment station 5 alternatively or additionally comprises a different machine unit for pretreating the lower film web 17.

Claims (14)

Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine (1) mit einer Produktionsrichtung (P), wobei die Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine (1) Folgendes umfasst: eine Folienaufnahme (47) zum Aufnehmen einer Unterfolien-Vorratsrolle (49); eine Vorbehandlungsstation (5) zum Vorbehandeln der Unterfolienbahn (17); eine der Vorbehandlungsstation (5) bezüglich der Produktionsrichtung (P) nachgeordnete Formstation (7) mit einem Formwerkzeug (25) zum Ausbilden von Mulden (27) in der Unterfolienbahn (17) durch Tiefziehen; eine der Formstation (7) bezüglich der Produktionsrichtung (P) nachgeordnete Einlegestrecke (9) zum Befüllen der Mulden (27) mit Produkten (29); eine der Einlegestrecke (9) bezüglich der Produktionsrichtung (P) nachgeordnete Siegelstation (11) mit einem Siegelwerkzeug (37) zum Verschließen der Mulden (27) mit einer Oberfolie (35); eine Transporteinrichtung (15), die dazu ausgelegt ist, die Unterfolienbahn (17) entlang der Produktionsrichtung (P) durch die Vorbehandlungsstation (5), weiter zu der Formstation (7), noch weiter zu der Einlegestrecke (9) und schließlich zu der Siegelstation (11) zu fördern; und eine Umlenkeinheit (51), die dazu konfiguriert ist, die Unterfolienbahn (17) vor Erreichen der Vorbehandlungsstation (5) bezüglich einer vertikalen Achse (V) um einen Winkel (a) umzulenken, wobei die Umlenkeinheit (51) zumindest teilweise unterhalb der Vorbehandlungsstation (5) angeordnet ist. Thermoforming packaging machine (1) having a production direction (P), the thermoforming packaging machine (1) comprising: a film receiver (47) for receiving a bottom film supply roll (49); a pretreatment station (5) for pretreating the sub-film web (17); a forming station (7) arranged downstream of the pretreatment station (5) with respect to the production direction (P), with a forming tool (25) for forming depressions (27) in the lower film web (17) by deep drawing; one of the forming station (7) with respect to the production direction (P) downstream insertion path (9) for filling the wells (27) with products (29); one of the insertion path (9) with respect to the production direction (P) downstream sealing station (11) with a sealing tool (37) for closing the wells (27) with a top film (35); a transport device (15) which is adapted to transport the lower film web (17) along the production direction (P) through the pretreatment station (5), further to the forming station (7), further to the insertion path (9) and finally to the sealing station (11) to promote; and a deflection unit (51) configured to divert the sub-web (17) by an angle (a) with respect to a vertical axis (V) before reaching the pre-treatment station (5), wherein the deflection unit (51) is arranged at least partially below the pretreatment station (5). Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine nach Anspruch 1, wobei die Folienaufnahme (47) versetzt zu der Produktionsrichtung (P) vorgesehen ist.Thermoforming packaging machine according to claim 1, wherein the film receptacle (47) offset from the direction of production (P) is provided. Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, wobei die Umlenkeinheit (51) dazu konfiguriert ist, die Unterfolienbahn (17) um einen Winkel zwischen 60° und 120°, insbesondere zwischen 80° und 100°, bezüglich der vertikalen Achse (V) umzulenken.Thermoforming packaging machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the deflection unit (51) is configured to deflect the lower film web (17) by an angle between 60 ° and 120 °, in particular between 80 ° and 100 °, with respect to the vertical axis (V). Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine nach einem der vorangehenden Ansprüche, wobei die Umlenkeinheit (51) so konfiguriert ist, dass eine Laufrichtung (Z) der Unterfolienbahn (17) nach dem Umlenken durch die Umlenkeinheit (51) zumindest in Projektion von oben auf die Tiefziehverpackungsmachine (1) parallel oder antiparallel zu der Produktionsrichtung (P) ist.Thermoforming packaging machine according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the deflection unit (51) is configured so that a direction (Z) of the lower film web (17) after being deflected by the deflection unit (51) at least in projection from above onto the thermoforming packaging machine (1) in parallel or is anti-parallel to the direction of production (P). Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine nach einem der vorangehenden Ansprüche, welche zudem eine Einleiteinrichtung (63) umfasst, die dazu ausgelegt ist, die Unterfolienbahn (17) nach dem Umlenken durch die Umlenkeinheit (51) in die Vorbehandlungsstation (5) einzuleiten.Thermoforming packaging machine according to one of the preceding claims, which further comprises an introduction device (63) which is adapted to initiate the lower film web (17) after being deflected by the deflection unit (51) into the pretreatment station (5). Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine nach Anspruch 5, wobei die Einleiteinrichtung (63) zumindest eine horizontal ausgerichtete Umlenkrolle (65) umfasst.Thermoforming packaging machine according to claim 5, wherein the introduction device (63) comprises at least one horizontally oriented deflection roller (65). Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine nach Anspruch 5 oder 6, wobei die Einleiteinrichtung (63) zumindest teilweise unterhalb der Vorbehandlungsstation (5) angeordnet ist.Thermoforming packaging machine according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the introduction device (63) is arranged at least partially below the pretreatment station (5). Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine nach einem der vorangehenden Ansprüche, welche ein Maschinengestell (3) umfasst, an dem die Vorbehandlungsstation (5), die Formstation (7), die Einlegestrecke (9) und die Siegelstation (11) entlang der Produktionsrichtung (P) hintereinander angeordnet sind, wobei das Maschinengestell (3) unterhalb der Vorbehandlungsstation (5) einen Aussparungsbereich (59) aufweist, in dem die Umlenkeinheit (51) zumindest teilweise angeordnet ist.Thermoforming packaging machine according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a machine frame (3) on which the pretreatment station (5), the forming station (7), the insertion path (9) and the sealing station (11) are arranged one behind the other along the production direction (P), wherein the machine frame (3) below the pretreatment station (5) has a recess area (59), in which the deflection unit (51) is at least partially arranged. Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine nach Anspruch 8, wobei das Maschinengestell (3) einen entgegen der Produktionsrichtung (P) überstehend ausgebildeten Ausleger (61) aufweist, an dem die Vorbehandlungsstation (5) angeordnet ist.Thermoforming packaging machine according to claim 8, wherein the machine frame (3) has a counter to the production direction (P) protruding boom (61) on which the pretreatment station (5) is arranged. Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine nach einem der Ansprüche 5 bis 7 und einem der Ansprüche 8 oder 9, wobei die Einleiteinrichtung (63) an dem Maschinengestell (3) angebracht ist.Thermoforming packaging machine according to one of claims 5 to 7 and one of claims 8 or 9, wherein the introduction device (63) is attached to the machine frame (3). Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine nach einem der vorangehenden Ansprüche, wobei die Vorbehandlungsstation (5) eine Vorheizstation (67) zum Vorheizen der Unterfolienbahn (17) vor Erreichen der Formstation (7) umfasst.Thermoforming packaging machine according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the pretreatment station (5) comprises a preheating station (67) for preheating the sub-film web (17) before reaching the forming station (7). Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine nach einem der vorangehenden Ansprüche, wobei die Vorbehandlungsstation (5) eine Loch- oder Schlitzeinheit (69) umfasst, die dazu konfiguriert ist, die Unterfolienbahn (17) zu lochen oder zu schlitzen.A thermoforming packaging machine according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pretreatment station (5) comprises a perforation or slot unit (69) configured to pierce or slit the sub-web (17). Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine nach Anspruch 12, wobei die Loch- oder Schlitzeinheit (69) eine Abfalleinrichtung umfasst, die zum Sammeln und/oder Abführen von bei dem Lochen oder Schlitzen der Unterfolienbahn (17) entstehenden Folienresten konfiguriert ist.A thermoforming packaging machine according to claim 12, wherein the perforating or slitting unit (69) comprises a waste device configured to collect and / or remove film residues resulting from the punching or slitting of the sub-web web (17). Tiefziehverpackungsmaschine nach Anspruch 12, wobei die Loch- oder Schlitzeinheit (69) eine Absaugeinrichtung (71) zum Absaugen von bei dem Lochen oder Schlitzen der Unterfolienbahn (17) entstehenden Folienresten umfasst.Thermoforming packaging machine according to claim 12, wherein the perforating or slitting unit (69) comprises a suction device (71) for sucking off film residues resulting from the perforation or slitting of the lower film web (17).
EP18210759.9A 2018-03-16 2018-12-06 Deep draw packaging machine with film deflection Active EP3539883B1 (en)

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ES2879899T3 (en) 2021-11-23
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DE102018204044A1 (en) 2019-09-19
US11260999B2 (en) 2022-03-01
US20190283913A1 (en) 2019-09-19

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