GB2516964A

GB2516964A - Improvements in and relating to packaging apparatus

Info

Publication number: GB2516964A
Application number: GB1314249.2A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Rui Carlos Miguel Cardadeiro
Original assignee: Packaging Automation Ltd
Current assignee: Packaging Automation Ltd
Priority date: 2013-08-08
Filing date: 2013-08-08
Publication date: 2015-02-11
Anticipated expiration: 2033-08-08
Also published as: GB2516964B; GB201314249D0

Abstract

Packaging 10 apparatus comprises a sealing station 20 which, in use, seals a container 1. Sealing station 20 comprises first 30 and second presses 40, an actuator 60 and electromagnets 80 which apply a force directing presses 30, 40 together; this may be a sealing force. Sealing station 20 may heat seal closures to containers 1, which may be film and trays. Actuator 60 may provide none of the sealing force and electromagnets 80 may provide all of the sealing force. Electromagnets 80 may apply a force greater than the seal force required. Actuator 60 may be an electric actuator. A support surface 70 may be adapted so that when presses 30, 40 are retracted, containers 1 may be slid through sealing station 20. Armatures 90 may cooperate with the electromagnets 80. There may be a resiliently deformable material interposing electromagnets 80 and/or armatures 90 and the part of the apparatus they are mounted to. First press 30 may comprise press plate 32 and first press tool 31, connected by support bars 33, and second press 40 may comprise second press tool 41.

Description

Improvements in and relating to packaging apparatus

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to packaging apparatus, to packaging methods and to packaged products.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

A known type of packaging apparatus which can be used to produce sealed containers comprises a sealing station for sealing film to trays.

In such apparatus a film sheet and trays are fed into a sealing station. Press means of the sealing station are then moved relative to one another to bring the trays and film sheet into contact with one another and to apply pressure to hold them in contact during a sealing step.

Once the film is sealed to trays the film is cut between trays, the press means are moved relative to one another to release the sealed trays and the sealed trays are removed from the sealing station.

The press means are moved relative to one another by a press mechanism comprising an actuator. The actuator is used both to move press means relative to one another and to apply a force to hold the film sheet against trays during a sealing step. Significant forces are required during the sealing step and consequently a large amount of energy is consumed during the sealing step. Efforts have been made to reduce energy consumption by providing a press mechanism comprising two actuators to reduce overall energy consumption. A first actuator is used to move press means part of the way towards one another and a second actuator is used to complete the movement of the press means towards one another and provide the sealing force. However, such press mechanism are more complex and still have significant energy requirements and do not overcome other disadvantages associated with known packaging apparatus.

Accordingly, the present invention aims to address at least one disadvantage associated with known packaging apparatus whether discussed herein or otherwise.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the present nvention there is provided a packaging apparatus comprising a sealing station adapted, in use, to seal a container and wherein the sealing station comprises: (i) first and second press means; (H) actuator means adapted to move said press means relative to one another; and (iii) one or more electromagnets adapted to selectively apply a force directing said press means towards one another.

Suitably, the apparatus is adapted such that, in use, a sealing force can be applied by said electromagnet(s) during a container sealing step.

Suitably, the sealing station comprises a sealing station for heat sealing containers.

Suitably, the apparatus is adapted to seal a container by sealing a closure member to said container.

Suitably, the press means is adapted to move between a retracted position and a sealing position.

Suitably, the apparatus is adapted such that, in use, a container and a closure member can be located between the first and second press means and a sealing force can be applied by said electromagnet(s) during a container sealing step in order to direct said first and second press means towards one another with the contaner and closure member lying there between such that the container and closure member are pressed against one another.

Suitably, the apparatus is adapted such that, in use, the actuator means provides substantially none of the sealing force during a container sealing step. The apparatus may be adapted such that, in use, the actuator means provides none of the sealing force during a container sealing step. Alternatively, the apparatus may be adapted such that, in use, the actuator means provides a fraction of the sealing force during a container sealing step.

Suitably, the apparatus is adapted such that, in use, the electromagnet(s) provide at least 10% of the sealing force during a container sealing step. Suitably, the apparatus is adapted such that, in use, the electromagnet(s) provide at least 20% of the sealing force during a container sealing step. The apparatus may be adapted such that the electromagnet(s) provide at least 30%, for example at least: 40%; 50%; 60%; 70%; or 80% of the sealing force during a container sealing step. Suitably, the apparatus is adapted such that, in use, the electromagnet(s) provide at least 90% of the sealing force during a container sealing step.

The apparatus may be adapted such that, in use, the electromagnet(s) provide 100% of the sealing force during a container sealing step.

Suitably, the actuator is adapted to move the press means from a non sealing position to a sealing position. Suitably, the actuator is adapted to move the press means from a retracted position to a sealing position. Suitably, the press means lie within 5mm of one another in said sealing position. Suitably, the press means lie within 4mm of one another in said sealing position, for example within: 3mm; 2mm or 1mm of one another. Suitably, the press means lie at least 50mm from one another in said retracted position. Suitably, the press means lie at least 100mm from one another in said retracted position, for example at least: iSOm; 200mm or 250mm from one another.

Suitably, the apparatus is adapted such that, in use, to perform a container sealing step the actuator means is operated to move the press means towards one another until they lie in contact or close proximity to one another and then the electromagnet(s) are operated to apply a force directing said press means towards one another such that a sealing force is applied by said electromagnet(s).

Suitably, the apparatus is adapted such that the electromagnet(s) can apply a force greater than the seal force required to seal a container. Suitably, the apparatus is adapted such that the electromagnet(s) can apply a force greater than the seal force required to seal a container by sealing a closure member to a container. Suitably, the apparatus is adapted such that the electromagnet(s) apply a force of at least 5KN, for example at least 7KN, for example 1 OKN or more, for example 2OKN or more.

The actuator may comprise a pneumatic, hydraulic or electric actuator. The actuator may consist of a pneumatic, hydraulic or electric actuator. Suitably, the actuator comprises an electric actuator. Suitably, the actuator comprises an electric actuator which is not an electromagnet. Suitably, the actuator comprises an electric motor actuator.

The actuator may comprise a motor with ball screw, motor with cam drive or linear motor. The actuator may comprise an actuator of the type known for use with packaging apparatus but it may be adapted to produce less force and/or consume less energy than actuators used with known packaging apparatus as the electromagnet(s) provide the sealing force.

Surprisingly it has been appreciated by the present inventor that one ore more electromagnets can be used in a packaging apparatus to apply a force adequate to allow a container sealing step to be performed. Surprisingly it has been found that by using a combination of an actuator to move press means from a retracted position to a sealing position and electromagnet(s) to apply a sealing force an effective seal may be produced with lower energy consumption than that of known packaging apparatus.

The apparatus may be adapted such that the use of electromagnet(s) to apply a sealing force allows the use of an electric motor actuator having 10% to 40%, for example around 25%, of the power than would be required if the electric motor actuator were required to apply a sealing force in the absence of said electromagnet(s). The apparatus may be adapted such that the use of electromagnet(s) to apply a sealing force allows the use of an electric motor actuator having approximately 5% to 20%, for example around 12%, of the energy consumption during a sealing step than would be required if the electric motor actuator were required to apply a sealing force during a sealing step in the absence of said electromagnet(s).

Suitably, the apparatus comprises a support surface and is adapted such that when the press means is in a retracted position containers may be slid through the sealing station. Suitably, the first press part comprises apertures adapted to receive bases of containers when in a sealing position and to receive a support surface for supporting bases of containers when in a retracted position.

Suitably, the packaging apparatus is adapted to seal a container which comprises a tray.

Suitably, the packaging apparatus is adapted to seal a container by sealing a closure member to it. Suitably, the packaging apparatus is adapted to seal a container which comprises a tray by sealing a closure member to it. Suitably, the closure member comprises a sheet material.

Suitably, the packaging apparatus is adapted to seal a plurality of containers. Suitably, the packaging apparatus is adapted to seal a plurality of containers simultaneously.

Suitably, the packaging apparatus is adapted to seal a closure member to a plurality of containers. Suitably, the packaging apparatus is adapted to seal a closure member to a plurality of containers simultaneously. Suitably, the packaging apparatus is adapted to seal a closure member to a plurality of containers and then cut the closure member to produce separate sealed containers.

Suitably, the closure member comprises a film sheet. Suitably, the closure member comprises a plastics film sheet. Alternatively, the closure member may comprise a metal foil or carton sheet. Suitably, container comprises a plastics container. Alternatively the container may comprise a metal container or carton.

Suitably the actuator means is adapted to move said press means towards one another. The actuator means may be adapted to move said press means away from one another. Suitably, the actuator means is adapted to move said press means both toward and away from one another as required. Alternatively, or in addition, the apparatus may be adapted such that the press means may be moved in one of said relative directions by gravity.

The apparatus may be adapted such that the actuator means can move the press means to a sealing position. The apparatus may be adapted such that the actuator means can move the press means away from a sealing position. Suitably, the apparatus is adapted such that the actuator means can move the press means to a sealing position but does not provide all the force for the final part of the movement to the sealing position and the electromagnet(s) suitably provide some of the force required for the final part of the movement to the sealing position. Suitably, the apparatus is adapted such that once the press means are in a sealing position the actuator stops exerting any force and the press means are held in position by the electromagnet(s). Suitably, the apparatus is adapted such that once the press means are in a sealing position the actuator is operated to exert a reduced force and the press means are held in position by the electromagnet(s). Suitably, the apparatus is adapted such that once a sealing step is complete the electromagnets are turned off and the press means are moved away from the sealing position by the actuator.

Suitably, the apparatus comprises control means for coordinating the operation of the actuator and the electromagnet(s). Suitably, the control means comprises a programmable controller.

Suitably, the apparatus comprises a sealing station having a plurality of electromagnets adapted to selectively apply a force directing said press means towards one another. Suitably, the apparatus comprises two or more such electromagnets, suitably three or more, for example four electromagnets. Suitably, each of the electromagnets is adapted to exert substantially the same force as one another.

Suitably, the apparatus further comprises one or more armatures adapted to cooperate with said electromagnet(s). Suitably, the apparatus comprises an armature for each electromagnet. Suitably, the apparatus comprises two or more armatures, suitably three or more, for example four armatures.

Suitably, armatures are mounted with a resliently deformable material interposing an armature and the part of the apparatus it is mounted to. The armatures may thus be able to move slightly relative to the part of the apparatus to which they are mounted when abutting an electromagnet and this may facilitate correct alignment of press tools. Suitably, the armatures have rubber mountings.

The electromagnets may be mounted with a resiliently deformable material interposing an electromagnet and the part of the apparatus it is mounted to. The electromagnets may thus be able to move slightly relative to the part of the apparatus to which they are mounted when abutting an armature and this may facilitate correct alignment of press tools. The electromagnets may have rubber mountings.

In a preferred embodiment the first press means is adapted to move and the second press means is adapted to remain stationary. It will be understood that in this embodiment the actuator means is adapted to move the first press means relative to the second press means and the one or more electromagnets are adapted to selectively apply a force directing said first press means towards said second press means.

Suitably, the apparatus comprises a frame. Suitably, the apparatus is adapted such that the first press means moves relative to said frame. Suitably, apparatus is adapted such that the second press means substantially does not move relative to the frame.

The apparatus may comprise electromagnet(s) connected to one of said first and second press means and armature(s) connected to the other. Alternatively, the apparatus may comprise a mix of electromagnets and armatures connected to one of said first and second press means and the respective complimentary electromagnets and armatures connected to the other.

Alternatively, the apparatus may comprise electromagnet(s) connected to one of said first press means and a frame part of the apparatus and armature(s) connected to the other.

Alternatively, the apparatus may comprise a mix of electromagnets and armatures connected to one of said first press means and a frame part of the apparatus and respective complimentary electromagnets and armatures connected to the other.

Suitably, the second press means comprises a press tool (hereafter second press tool).

Suitably, the second press tool remains substantially stationary relative to the frame in use.

Suitably, the second press tool is connected to the frame such that it remains substantially stationary relative thereto.

The second press tool may be adapted to engage a plurality of containers and may have individual tool parts which may be adapted to move, for example against a spring bias, such that, in use, each container may be correctly engaged but otherwise there is suitably substantially no movement of said second press tool in use.

Suitably, the first press means comprises a press tool (hereafter first press tool). Suitably, the first oppress means comprises a first press tool and a press plate. Suitably, the first press means comprises a press tool and a press plate connected by support bars. Suitably, the first press tool and press plate are connected by four support bars. Suitably, said support bars are located towards corners of the support plate which is suitably substantially rectangular.

The apparatus may be adapted such that the first press tool is a lower press tool and the second press tool is an upper press tool. Alternatively, the apparatus may be adapted such that the first press tool is an upper press tool and the second press tool is a lower press tool.

Suitably, the first press tool is adapted to move relative to the frame. Suitaby, the press plate is adapted to move relative to the frame.

Suitably, the actuator is connected to the frame. Suitably, the actuator is adapted to move the press plate which in turn moves the support bars and thus the first press tool. Suitably, the actuator is adapted to cause the first press tool to move relative to the frame and second press tool.

Suitably, the frame comprises a machine plate. Suitably, the machine plate is adapted to remain in a substantially fixed position in use. Suitably, the machine plate is adapted to remain substantially stationary relative to the second press tool. Suitably, the press plate and first press tool are adapted to move relative to the machine plate. Suitably, the machine plate comprises apertures through which the support bars pass with the press plate adapted to lie on one side of the machine plate and the first press tool adapted to lie on the other side.

Suitably, in use, the actuator is adapted to move the press plate towards the machine plate and then the electromagnet(s) are adapted to apply a force such that the first press tool is pressed towards the second press tool. In use, a container and closure member located between the first and second press tools may thus be pressed together during a container sealing step.

Suitably, the actuator is adapted to apply a force to a central region of the press plate.

Suitably, the press plate comprises deflection means to allow it to deflect. Such deflection may allow for correction of misalignments so that the electromagnet(s) may properly engage the armature(s) and provide for effective application of a sealing force. Suitably, the deflection means comprise predicted deflection points. Suitably, the deflection means comprises one or more cut outs in the press plate.

Suitably, the electromagnet(s) are located as near as possible to force points such that stress on the structure of the apparatus may be minimised and/or such that alignment and/or force distribution may be improved.

In one embodiment the apparatus may be adapted such that one or more electromagnets apply a force directing said press plate towards said machine plate.

Suitably, the machine plate has one or more electromagnets mounted thereto. Suitably, the machine plate carries each of the electromagnets, for example four electromagnets. Suitably, the press plate has one or more armatures mounted thereto. Suitably, the press plate carries each of the armatures, for example four armatures. Alternatively, the position of one or more electromagnets and armatures may be reversed.

Suitably, the machine plate comprises apertures through which the support bars pass and the electromagnets are mounted close to the support bar apertures. Suitably, the armatures are mounted to the press plate close to the support bar mounting points. Suitably, the electromagnets are located such that they apply a force to the press plate in close proximity to the point at which the support bars are mounted to the press plate. This may allow the force to be directed through the support bars to the first press tool with minimal deflection of the press plate and without applying undue forces to the frame. Suitably, the electromagnets each have a part lying no more than 100mm, for example no more than 50mm from a support bar aperture.

Suitably, the press plate is adapted to deflect to allow for alignment at the armatures. In use, once the electromagnets have engaged the armatures the actuator may be wound back partially to relieve deflection of the press plate.

The apparatus may be adapted to control the actuator based on torque or force control. The apparatus may be adapted to operate the actuator until a certain force is reached.

In an alternative embodiment, the apparatus may comprises an actuator plate, suitably mounted to a machine plate, for example by support rods, and the actuator may be adapted to move a press plate relative to the actuator plate.

In an alternative embodiment the apparatus may be adapted such that one or more electromagnets directly apply a force directing said first press tool towards said second press tool.

Suitably, the first press tool has one or more electromagnets mounted thereto. Suitably, the first press tool carries each of the electromagnets, for example four electromagnets. Suitably, the second press tool has one or more armatures mounted thereto. Suitably, the second press tool carries each of the armatures, for example four armatures. Alternatively, the position of one or more electromagnets and armatures may be reversed.

Suitably, the electromagnets are located such that they apply a force directly to the first press tool. The apparatus may thus be adapted such that the sealing force is not directed through the support bars to the first press tool and may be such that undue forces are not applied to the frame. This arrangement may provide improved force transfer and better facilitate correct alignment.

The packaging apparatus may consist of a sealing station and may be adapted to be used with other packaging apparatus such as conveyors to form a packaging apparatus assembly.

Alternatively, the packaging apparatus may comprise conveyors in addition to a sealing station and may form all or part of a packaging apparatus assembly.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of sealing container, wherein the method comprises sequentially: (a) locating a container between first and second press means; (b) using an actuator means to move the press means towards a sealing position; and (c) using one or more electromagnets to apply a sealing force to hold the press means in a sealing position.

Suitably, the first and second press means each comprise press tools.

Suitably, the method comprises sequentially: (a) locating a container between first and second press tools; (b) using an actuator means to move the press tools towards a sealing position; and (a) using one or more electromagnets to apply a sealing force to hold the press tools in a sealing position.

Suitably, the method comprises using the actuator means to move the press means to a sealing position.

Suitably, the method comprises using the one or more electromagnets to apply a force to aid the final movement of the press means towards said sealing position and then to apply a sealing force to hold the press means in a sealing position.

Suitably, step (c) comprises a heat sealing step.

Suitably, following step (c) the method comprises (d) using the actuator to move the press means from a sealing position.

Suitably, the method comprises sealing a closure member to a container.

Suitably, the method comprises sequentially: (a) locating a container and closure member between first and second press means; (b) using an actuator means to move the press means towards a sealing position; and (c) using one or more electromagnets to apply a sealing force to hold the press means in a sealing position such that the container and closure member are pressed together.

Suitably, the method comprises sequentially: (a) locating a container and closure member between first and second press tools; (b) using an actuator means to move the press tools towards a sealing position; and (c) using one or more electromagnets to apply a sealing force to hold the press tools in a sealing position such that the container and closure member are pressed together.

Suitably, the method comprises sealing container in a packaging apparatus comprising a sealing station. The packaging apparatus may comprise a packaging apparatus according to the first aspect. The method may comprise any feature as described in relation to the first aspect.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a packaged product wherein said product is formed using an apparatus according to the first aspect and/or a method according to the second aspect.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The present invention will now be illustrated by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 shows a packaging apparatus in a retracted configuration; Figure 2 shows a packaging apparatus in a sealing configuration; Figure 3 shows the press plate of the apparatus of Figures 1 and 2; Figure 4 shows an alternative packaging apparatus in a retracted configuration; Figure 5 shows the packaging apparatus of Figure 4 in a sealing configuration; Figure 6 shows an alternative packaging apparatus in a retracted configuration; and Figure 7 shows the packaging apparatus of Figure 6 in a sealing configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

As shown by Figure 1 the packaging apparatus 10 comprises a sealing station 20 having a first press means 30 and a second press means 40. The first press means 30 comprises a first press tool 31 and a press plate 32 connected to one another by support bars 33. The second press means 40 comprises a second press tool 41. As can be seen the first press tool 31 comprises a connecting part 35 to which the support bars 33 connect.

The apparatus comprises a frame of which the machine plate 50 is shown. The machine plate is adapted to remain in a fixed position in use. The second press means 40 is adapted to remain in a substantially fixed position relative to the machine plate 50 and the first press means 30 is adapted to move relative to the machine plate 50 and the second press means 40.

The apparatus further comprises an actuator 60 adapted to move the press means 30, 40 from a retracted position to a sealing position by moving the first press means 30 towards the second press means 40.

The actuator 60 (shown schematically) is mounted to the machine plate 50 and the press plate 32 and adapted to cause the press plate 32 to move relative to the machine plate 50. As the first press tool 31 is mounted to the press plate 32 by the support bars 33 movement of the press plate 32 relative to the machine plate 50 causes movement of the first press tool relative to the machine plate 50 and to the second press tool 41.

The first press tool 31 comprises apertures adapted to receive the bases of trays as the first press tool 31 is moved to a sealing position. The apparatus further comprises a support surface 70 which is received in said apertures of the first press tool 31 when it is in a retracted position such that trays (containers) 1 can be slid through the sealing station 20.

It will be appreciated that as described so far the apparatus 10 is of a known construction as for example detailed in W02009/022180. However, the apparatus 10 differs significantly from known apparatus in details of the press plate 32 and actuator 60. Furthermore, the apparatus further includes electromagnets 80 adapted to apply a sealing force.

The apparatus 10 comprises four electromagnets 80 mounted to the machine plate 50 and four armatures 90 mounted to the press plate 32 and adapted to be engaged by the electromagnets 80.

The apparatus 10 comprises four support bars 33 mounted towards the corners of the press plate 32 and which pass through apertures in the machine plate 50 and are mounted to the first press tool 31 on the other side of the machine plate 50. The electromagnets 80 and armatures 90 are located in close proximity to the support bars 33 which may allow for forces to be directed to the first press tool 32 wthout exerting undue stress on other parts of the apparatus 10.

The armatures 90 are mounted to the press plate 32 on rubber mounts (not shown) which may allow for accurate alignment of the press tools 31, 41 in a sealing position.

The press plate 32 comprises deflection means in the form of cut outs 34 as best shown by Figure 3. The cut outs 34 allow the press plate 32 to deform when the actuator moves the press means 30, 40 into the sealing position such that the support bars 33 and armatures 90 are substantially correctly positioned to allow the press tools 32, 41 to be aligned.

The actuator 60 comprises a motor and ball screw actuator. The actuator 60 is adapted to produce approximately 25% of the force than would be required if the apparatus 10 did not use electromagnets 80. The actuator 60 is adapted to have around 12% of the energy consumption during a sealing step than would be the case if the apparatus 10 did not use electromagnets 80 to provide a sealing force during said sealing step.

In use, trays 1 are slid into the sealing station 20 whilst the press means 30, 40 is in a retracted position with the support surface 70 located in apertures of the first press tool 31 such that the support surface 70 supports the bases of the trays 1. Film 2 is located in the sealing station 20 below the second press tool 41. The apparatus is thus in the configuration shown in Figure 1.

The actuator 60 is then operated to move the press plate 32 towards the machine plate 50 and so lift the first press tool 31 from the retracted position towards the second press tool 41. This movement allows the bases of trays 1 to enter the apertures of the first press tool 1 which then engages the rims of the trays 1 and lifts them from the support surface 70 as it moves towards a sealing position.

The actuator 60 continues to be operated until the first press tool 31 reaches a sealing position with the trays 1 and film 2 sandwiched between the first and second press tools 31, 41. As the first press tool 31 approaches the sealing position the electromagnets 80 are operated to apply a force directing the press plate 32 towards the machine plate 50 and thus to direct the first press tool 31 towards the second press tool 41. The electromagnets 80 thus assist the final movement of the first press tool 31 to the sealing position.

Once the first press tool 31 is in the sealing position the operation of the actuator 60 is stopped and the first press tool 31 is retained in the sealing position by the electromagnets 80. The electromagnets 80 continue to be operated to exert a sealing force whilst a heat sealing step is performed to seal the film to the trays.

The press plate 32 deflects as the actuator 60 pushes it and the first press tool towards a sealing position and the deflection allows correct alignment of the electromagnets 80 and armatures 90. With the electromagnets 80 turned on and applying a sealing force the actuator can be wound back slightly to reduce deflection of the press plate 32 and relieve stresses on the apparatus 10.

On completion of the sealing step the film between trays is cut, the electromagnets 80 cease to be operated and the actuator 60 is operated in reverse to return the first press tool 31 to the retracted position.

As the first press tool reaches the retracted position the tray 1 bases are rested on the support surface 70 and the trays 1 are then slid from the sealing station 20. Simultaneously new trays and film are introduced into the sealing station ready for the process to be repeated.

Figures 4 and 5 show an alternative embodiment of a packaging apparatus 210 having a sealing station 220. Figure 4 shows the apparatus 210 in a retracted configuration and Figure shows it in a sealing configuration.

The packaging apparatus shares much of the construction as that of Figures 1 to 3 but electromagnets 280 are mounted to the first press tool 231 and armatures 290 are mounted to the second press tool 241.

The packaging apparatus 210 comprises a sealing station 220 having a first press means 230 and a second press means 240. The first press means comprises a first press tool 231 and a press plate 232 connected to one another by support bars 233. The second press means 240 comprises a second press tool 241.

The apparatus 210 comprises a frame of which the machine plate 250 is shown. The machine plate 250 is adapted to remain in a fixed position in use. The second press means 240 is adapted to remain in a substantially fixed position relative to the machine plate 250 and the first press means 230 is adapted to move relative to the machine plate 250 and the second press means 240.

The apparatus further comprises an actuator 260 adapted to move the press means 230, 240 from a retracted position to a sealing position by moving the first press means 230 towards the second press means 240.

In this arrangement the electromagnets 280 exert a sealing force directly on the press tools 231, 241 rather than via a press plate and support bars. This may have the benefit that forces are applied where they are required during the sealing step and so undue stresses on other parts of the apparatus may be minim ised.

Figures 7 and 8 show an alternative embodiment of a packaging apparatus 310 having a sealing station 320. Figure 6 shows the apparatus 310 in a retracted configuration and Figure 7 shows it in a sealing configuration.

The packaging apparatus 310 has the same general principle of operation as that of Figures 1 to 3 but the second press tool 341 is the lower press tool and the first press tool 331 is the upper press tool.

The packaging apparatus 310 comprises a sealing station 320 having a first press means 330 and a second press means 340. The first press means 330 comprises a first press tool 331 and a press plate 332 connected to one another by support bars 333. The second press means 340 comprises a second press tool 341.

The apparatus comprises a frame of which the machine plate 350 is shown. The machine plate 350 is adapted to remain in a fixed position in use. The second press means 340 is adapted to remain in a substantially fixed position relative to the machine plate 350 and the first press means 330 is adapted to move relative to the machine plate 350 and the second press means 40.

The apparatus 310 further comprises an actuator 360 adapted to move the press means 330, 340 from a retracted position to a sealing position by moving the first press means 330 towards the second press means 340.

In this case the actuator 360 operates to move the press plate 332 and thus the support bars 333 and first press tool 331 downwards towards the second press tool 341 to move the press means 330, 340 to a sealing position.

Rather than being mounted between the press plate and machine plate as in the embodiment of Figure 1 in this embodiment the apparatus has an actuator plate 351 mounted to the machine plate 350 by support rods 352 and the actuator is mounted to move a press plate 332 relative to the actuator plate 351.

The press means 330, 340 is smaller than that of the embodiment of Figure 1 and so there is a single electromagnet 380 centrally mounted to the machine plate 350 and a single armature 390 centrally mounted to the press plate 332.

It will be appreciated that the use of electromagnet(s) in preferred embodiments of the present invention may greatly reduce the overall energy consumption, the maximum force needed on the actuator and/or the stress on the apparatus frame.

Attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.

Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims

CLAIMS-A packaging apparatus comprising a soaling station adapted, in usc, to seal a containor and whcroin tho soaling station comprises: (i) first and second pross moans; (H) actuator moans adapted to mayo said press means relative to one another; and (iii) one or more electromagnets adapted to selectively apply a force directing said pross means towards ono anothor.
2. A packaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the apparatus is adapted such that, in use, a sealing force can be applied by said electromagnet(s) during a container sealing step.
3. A packaging apparatus according to claim I or 2, wherein the sealing station comprises a sealing station for heat sealing containers.
4. A packaging apparatus according to any preceding claim, whoroin tho apparatus is adapted such that, in usc, a containor and a closurc mombor can be locatod botwoon the first 0 20 and socond pross moans and a scaling force can be applied by said oloctromagnot(s) during a c containcr scaling step in order to direct said first and second press means towards ono another with the container and closure member lying there between such that the container and closure member are pressed against one another.
5. A packaging apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus is adaptod such that, in use, tho actuator moans providos substantially nonc of the scaling force during a container scaling stop.
6. A packaging apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus is adaptod such that, in use, tho olcctromagnot(s) provido at least 90% of tho scaling force during a container scaling stop.
7. A packaging apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus is adapted such that, in use, the electromagnet(s) provide 100% of the sealing force during a container soaling stop.
8. A packaging apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the actuator is adapted to move the press means from a non sealing position to a sealing position.
9. A packaging apparatus according to any preceding claim, whorein the actuator is adaptod to movo tho press means from a retracted position to a sealing position.
10. A packaging apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the actuator means is adapted to move said press means both toward and away from one another as required.
11. A packaging apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus is adapted such that, in use, to perform a container sealing step the actuator means is operated to move the press means towards one another until they lie in contact or close proximity to one another and then the electromagnet(s) are operated to apply a force directing said press means towards one another such that a sealing force is applied by said electromagnet(s).
12. A packaging apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus is adapted such that the electromagnet(s) can apply a force greater than the seal force required to seal a container.
13. A packaging apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the actuator comprises an electric actuator. r
14. A packaging apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus is C adapted such that the use of electromagnet(s) to apply a sealing force allows the use of an electric motor actuator having 10% to 40% of the power than would be required if the electric r motor actuator were required to apply a sealing force in the absence of said electromagnet(s).
15. A packaging apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus is adapted such that the use of electromagnet(s) to apply a sealing force allows the use of an electric motor actuator having approximately 5% to 20% of the energy consumption during a sealing step than would be required if the electric motor actuator were required to apply a sealing force during a sealing step in the absence of said electromagnet(s).
16. A packaging apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus comprises a support surface and is adapted such that when the press means is in a retracted position containers may be slid through the sealing station.
17. A packaging apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the packaging apparatus is adapted to seal a container which comprises a tray by sealing a closure member to it.
18. A packaging apparatus according to any procoding claim, whoroin tho apparatus is adaptod such that tho actuator moans can movo tho pross moans to a soaling position but doos not provido all tho forco for tho final part of tho movomont to tho soaling position and tho oloctromagnot(s) suitably provido somo of tho forco roquirod for tho final part of tho movomont to tho soaling position.
19. A packaging apparatus according to any procoding claim, whoroin tho apparatus comprises a sealing station having a plurality of electromagnets adapted to selectively apply a forco dirocting said pross moans towards ono anothor.
20. A packaging apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the electromagnets are mounted with a resiliently deformable material interposing an electromagnet and the part of the apparatus it is mounted to.
21. A packaging apparatus according to any procoding claim, whoroin tho apparatus comprisos ono or moro armaturos adaptod to cooporato with said oloctromagnot(s).
22. A packaging apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the armatures are mounted with a rosiliontly doformablo matorial intorposing an armaturo and tho part of tho apparatus it is O 20 mounted to.

C. . . .
23. A packaging apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the first press means comprisos a first pross tool and tho socond pross moans comprisos a socond pross tool.
24. A packaging apparatus according to any procoding claim, whoroin tho apparatus comprisos a framo and tho apparatus is adaptod such that tho first pross moans movos relative to said frame and that the second press means substantially does not move relative to tho framo.
25. A packaging apparatus according to any procoding claim, whoroin tho framo comprisos a machine plate adapted to remain in a substantially fixed position in use.
26. A packaging apparatus according to any procoding claim, whoroin tho first pross moans comprisos a first press tool and a pross plato.
27. A packaging apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the first press means comprisos a pross tool and a pross plato connoctod by support bars.
28. A packaging apparatus according to claim 26 or 27, wherein the actuator is adapted to apply a forco to a central region of the press plate.
29. A packaging apparatus according to any of claims 26 to 28, wherein the press plate comprises deflection means to allow it to deflect.
30. A packaging apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the electromagnet(s) are located as near as possible to force points such that stress on the structure of the apparatus may be minimised and/or such that alignment and/or force distribution may be improved.
31. An apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 23, wherein the apparatus comprises an actuator plate and the actuator is adapted to move a press plate relative to the actuator plate.
32. An apparatus according to any of claim 23, wherein the apparatus is adapted such that one or more electromagnets directly apply a force directing said first press tool towards said second press tool.
33. A method of sealing a container, wherein the method comprises sequentially: (a) locating a container between first and second press means; c (b) using an actuator means to move the press means towards a sealing position; and (c) using one or more electromagnets to apply a sealing force to hold the press means in a sealing position.
34. A method according to claim 33 wherein the method comprises using the one or more electromagnets to apply a force to aid the final movement of the press means towards said sealing position and then to apply a sealing force to hold the press means in a sealing position.
35. A method according to claim 33 or 34, wherein step (c) comprises a heat sealing step.
36. A method according to any of claims 33 to 35, wherein the method comprises sequentially: (a) locating a container and closure member between first and second press means; (b) using an actuator means to move the press means towards a sealing position; and (c) using one or more electromagnets to apply a sealing force to hold the press means in a sealing position such that the container and closure member are pressed together.
37. A method according to any of claims 33 to 36, wherein the method comprises sealing a container in a packaging apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 32.
38. A packaged product wherein said product is formed using a packaging apparatus according to any of claims ito 32 and/or a method according to any of claims 33 to 37.
39. A packaging apparatus substantially as heroin described with reference to any of the accompanying drawings.
40. A method of sealing a container substantially as herein described.i0

4i. A packaged product substantially as herein described. r r