DE202012013306U1 - Vakuumskinverpackung - Google Patents

Abstract

A package (700) comprising a tray (701) having a bottom wall (702) and a side wall (703) extending upwardly from the bottom wall (702), the side wall (703) rising upwardly in an outboard horizontal brim (704) terminates, the sidewall (703) has one or more horizontal shoulders (707) located in the upper half of the region of the sidewall (703), and the sidewall (703) has a protective protrusion which extends located at the inner edge of each horizontal ledge (707), each horizontal ledge (707) being positioned vertically at a lower height compared to the outwardly projecting horizontal rim (704) and extending between the ledge and another side wall portion, extending from the horizontal shoulder (707) and terminating at the horizontal brim (704).

Description

Technical area

The present invention generally relates to a skin-packaged product.

Technical background

Vacuum packaging is a well known process for packaging a wide range of products, especially food products. Vacuum box packaging is commonly used by the known vacuum packaging methods for packaging food products such as fresh and frozen meat and fish, cheese, processed meats, ready meals and the like. Vacuum skin packaging is used, for example, in FR 1 258 357 . FR 1 286 018 . AU 3 491 504 . US RE 30 009 . US 3,574,642 . US 3,681,092 . US 3,713,849 . US 4,055,672 and US 5,346,735 described.

Vacuum skin packaging is basically a thermoforming process. The product is typically placed on a rigid or semi-rigid carrier (such as a tray, bowl, or cup). The carrier with the product placed thereon is placed in a vacuum chamber in which a sheet of thermoplastic material held by vacuum in a position above the product placed on the carrier is heated to soften it. The space between the carrier and the film is then evacuated and finally the vacuum is broken above the film to cause the film to drape down all the way around the product and seal against the surface of the non-product covered carrier , whereby a firm skin ("Skin") is formed around the product and on the carrier.

US 2007/0022717 discloses a machine for gas-tight packaging of an object using a sheet material. The machine has a lower tool to carry two trays and an upper tool which has cutting devices and faces the lower tool. A foil is placed between the upper tool and the lower tool. The film is first cut to the size of the peripheral rims of the trays and is then applied and / or simultaneously gas-tight to the peripheral brim. Vacuum is applied in the surrounding region of the tray to induce thermoforming of the film in response to the formation of a pressure drop.

US 2005/0257501 discloses a machine for packaging a product placed in a tray. The machine has a lower tool to carry the tray and an upper tool with a cutter. The film is clamped during operation along an edge surrounding the tray and deformed by the upper tool in a direction extending away from the product. Then, the space surrounding the product is evacuated, the film and the edge of the tray are sealed, and the film is then cut by the cutter.

US 3 481 101 discloses a method for producing skin packages using a carrier whose lip is provided with a plurality of passages. According to this method, after the tray has been filled, a heated cover sheet is draped over the tray and vacuum applied so that the air within the package is pulled out of the package and the film is pulled into a heat seal condition with the tray to provide hermetic sealing Cover to form on the lip of the tray. Additional passages may be provided in the upper side walls of the tray, whereupon the heated sheet is pulled not only into sealing contact with the lip of the tray but also partially downwardly into the cavity.

EP 320294 discloses a skin packaging method in which a product-loaded tray provided with a vent passage in its side wall is placed on a vacuum plate, thermoplastic film is excessively held by a frame over the tray and heated until it begins to sag over the product then vacuum is applied to the tray from below to pull the film to conform to the surface of the product and over and around the rim of the tray in a thermally bonded crimp seal. The excess film is then cut off.

In most of the above solutions, the removal of air from the interior of the carrier tray is possible only as long as the foil is held over the carrier tray and the product. As soon as the foil contacts and seals the upper edge of the tray, no further air can be removed from the inside of the tray. In particular, when using a deep tray as a carrier for the product may therefore disadvantageously remain air pockets which are trapped between the film and the underside of the carrier. These air pockets can adversely affect the shelf life of the product as well as the consumer's impression of the package.

In the skin packaging process of US 3,481,101 and EP 0320294 The passages provided in the carrier tray allow the removal of air within the carrier, even after the film has contacted the carrier tray, thereby reducing the risk that air pockets will remain in the package. Although these solutions have improved the ability to remove air from the interior of the tablet, the in US 3,481,101 and EP 0320294 described packaging method, the use of suitably designed trays. This places some strain on the production chain. Also, the location or size of the holes or venting channels present in the tray may not always be optimized for the particular packaging machine. The presence of holes in the tray walls also leads to an undesirable aesthetic impression of the overall packaging.

Trays with prefabricated holes are out US 4919955 . WO 9714313 and US 2005074531 known. The in the in US 4919955 and US 2005074531 disclosed trays existing holes are provided with a valve means.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a new package having a design that allows efficient air removal and enhances the aesthetic impression of the package.

Summary

At least one of the above objects is substantially achieved by a package according to one or more of the appended claims.

Aspects of the invention will be described hereinafter.

A first aspect concerns an apparatus ( 1 ) for packaging a carrier ( 7 ) arranged product ( 8th ), the carrier ( 7 ) has a base wall and side wall, the apparatus ( 1 ) comprises:
a frame ( 10 )
one on the frame ( 10 ) arranged transport assembly ( 2 ) for transferring one or more vehicles ( 7 ) is configured along a predefined path,
one of the frame ( 10 ) carried packaging assembly ( 5 ) located at a packaging station (along the path) ( 201 ), the packaging assembly ( 5 ) for tightening a film layer ( 61 ) on the one or more carriers ( 7 ) is configured
at least one perforation unit ( 100 ) with a perforation tool ( 101 ) between a rest position in which the tool ( 101 ) from the side wall of the carrier ( 7 ) and an operating position can be operated, in which the tool ( 101 ) on the carrier ( 7 ) and at least one through hole ( 70 ) in the sidewall, and
a vacuum arrangement ( 102 ) comprising for example one or more pumps and for removing air within the carrier ( 7 ) below the film layer ( 61 ) at least partially through the at least one hole ( 70 ) is configured.

• – einen Halter (103), der so konfiguriert ist, dass der Träger (7) mindestens während der Perforation in einer vorbestimmten Position gehalten wird,
• – mindestens einen Aktuator (104), der mit mindestens einem jeweiligen Perforationswerkzeug (101) verbunden ist und so konfiguriert ist, dass das Perforationswerkzeug (101) gemäß einer vorab festgelegten Perforationsrichtung (DP) versetzt wird, die die Seitenwand des Trägers (7) kreuzt, wenn letzterer in der vorbestimmten Position platziert wird.

In a second aspect according to the first aspect, the apparatus further comprises:

• - a holder ( 103 ), which is configured so that the carrier ( 7 ) is held in a predetermined position at least during the perforation,
• At least one actuator ( 104 ), which with at least one respective perforation tool ( 101 ) and is configured so that the perforation tool ( 101 ) is displaced in accordance with a predetermined perforation direction (DP), which is the side wall of the carrier ( 7 ) crosses when the latter is placed in the predetermined position.

In a third aspect according to one of the preceding aspects, the perforation tool ( 101 ) a tapered tip ( 105 ) for progressively contacting the side wall of the support ( 7 ) when moving the perforation tool ( 101 ) is configured from the rest position to the operating position.

In a fourth aspect according to the preceding aspect, the tapered tip ( 105 ) one or more cutting edges ( 106 ), wherein each of the cutting edges ( 106 ) on the tapered tip ( 105 ) is positioned so as to define a side profile which is inclined with respect to a predetermined perforation direction (DP), the cutting edges 106 ) are positioned and configured such that the tapered tip ( 105 ) in perforation of the side wall of the carrier ( 7 ) cuts a flap element into the side wall.

In a fifth aspect according to one of the preceding aspects, the perforation tool ( 101 ) an elongated design along a longitudinal axis ( 101 ) of the prevailing structure, and the side profile of the cutting edge is inclined at an acute angle (α) with respect to the longitudinal axis of the perforating tool.

In a sixth aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the tapered tip (10) comprises 105 ) of the perforation tool ( 101 ) two cutting edges ( 106 ) with distal sections ( 106a forming a V-shaped geometry at a distal end of the tip (FIG. 105 ), wherein the two distal sections ( 106a ) by an angle (α) with respect to a longitudinal axis ( 110a ) of the perforation tool ( 101 ) are inclined.

In a seventh aspect according to the preceding aspect, the cutting edges close two further sections ( 106b ) adjacent to and in continuation of the distal sections (FIG. 106a ), the other sections ( 106b ) in non-cutting surfaces ( 107 ) extending towards a proximal end of the tip ( 105 ) and an opening ( 105b ), the other sections ( 106b ) of the cutting edges ( 106 ) converge so that non-intersecting surfaces ( 107 ) To be defined.

In an eighth aspect according to the preceding aspect, the further sections ( 106b ) of the cutting edges ( 106 ) arcuate.

In a ninth aspect according to the seventh or eighth aspect, the non-intersecting surfaces extend (FIG. 107 ) at a distance (d) from each other which is smaller than the maximum distance (w) between the cutting edges ( 106 ), so that when perforation of the side wall of the carrier ( 7 ) the tapered tip ( 105 ) a flap element ( 70a ) cuts into the sidewall and the non-cutting surfaces ( 107 ) urge the flap element into an open position, wherein portions of the surfaces ( 107 ) an opening ( 105b ) of sufficient size to allow the intake of air / gas from the inside of the carrier ( 7 ) comes.

In a tenth aspect according to one of the preceding aspects, the perforation tool ( 101 ) of each perforation unit ( 100 ) a tip opening ( 109 ), which with a suction opening ( 101 . 105b ) spaced from the tip opening and in fluid communication with the vacuum assembly (Figs. 102 ) is to allow air within the carrier ( 7 ) when the tip ( 105 ) of the perforation tool into the at least one hole ( 70 ) is introduced.

In an eleventh aspect according to one of the preceding aspects, the framework defines ( 10 ) a sliding plane ( 20 ) for the wearer ( 7 ), and wherein the transport assembly ( 2 ) a grant ( 21 ), wherein at least a portion above the slip plane ( 20 ) is positioned and configured so that the carrier ( 7 ) above the slip plane ( 20 ) and along the path from a loading station ( 200 ), where one or more carriers are received by the conveyor, to the packaging station ( 201 ) where at least one carrier ( 7 ) can be positioned.

In a twelfth aspect according to one of the preceding aspects, the perforation unit ( 100 ) carried by the frame and works in conjunction with the packaging station, the perforation unit ( 100 ) is configured so that at least one hole is formed in the side wall of the at least one carrier present in the packaging station.

In a thirteenth aspect according to one of the preceding aspects, the perforation unit ( 100 ) in connection with a tote holding station used to hold a number of empty carriers ( 7 ) is configured in predetermined positions, wherein the tray holding station can be operated on or upstream of the loading station, wherein the perforation unit ( 100 ) is configured so that at least one hole is formed in the side wall of the at least one carrier, which is located in the tray holding station.

In a fourteenth aspect according to one of the preceding claims, the slip plane ( 20 ) an opening ( 20a ), which is arranged according to the packaging station, and the packaging assembly ( 5 ) comprises a base unit ( 53 ) for receiving and holding the carrier ( 7 ) and an upper unit located above the base unit ( 53 ) and for positioning the film layer ( 61 ) above the base unit ( 53 ) is configured.

In a fifteenth aspect according to the preceding aspect, the base unit and the upper unit are relatively movable so as to form a brim of the carrier (FIG. 7 ) and a corresponding section of the film layer ( 61 ) in contact between a heated surface of the upper unit and a bearing surface of the base unit ( 53 ) to place.

In a sixteenth aspect according to one of the preceding two aspects, the base unit defines ( 53 ) a chamber for receiving the at least one support ( 7 ) and passages ( 530a . 530b ; 530a ' . 530b ' ) on either its side wall or its bottom wall, which are designed to hold the vacuum arrangement ( 102 ) and a volume ( 300 . 300 ' ), which is at least between an outer surface of the carrier ( 7 ) and an inner surface of the base unit ( 53 ) is placed in fluid communication.

In a seventeenth aspect according to one of the preceding aspects, the apparatus comprises a control unit ( 120 ) connected to the transport assembly ( 2 ), the packaging assembly ( 5 ), the perforation unit ( 100 ) and the vacuum arrangement ( 101 ), wherein the control unit is configured to
the transport assembly ( 2 ), the carrier ( 7 ) along the predefined path,
the packaging assembly ( 5 ), the film layer ( 61 ) taut on the support ( 7 ) when the latter has reached the packaging station,
the perforation unit ( 100 ), the perforation tool ( 101 ) from the rest position to the operating position, whereby at least one through hole ( 70 ) is generated on the carrier side wall, and
the vacuum arrangement ( 102 ), air within the carrier ( 7 ) below the film layer ( 61 ) through the at least one hole ( 70 ) through.

In an eighteenth aspect according to the present aspect, the control unit ( 120 ) further configured so that
determined when the wearer ( 7 ) in the base unit ( 53 ) of the packaging assembly ( 5 ), and
the displacement of the perforation tool ( 101 ) is commanded from the rest position to the operating positions only after the wearer ( 7 ) correctly in the base unit ( 53 ) has been positioned.

In a nineteenth aspect according to one of the preceding two aspects, the control unit ( 120 ) further configured so that
is determined when the perforation tool ( 101 ) has reached the operating position, and
the vacuum arrangement ( 102 ), air within the carrier ( 7 ) while the perforating tool ( 101 ) is held in the operating position.

In a twentieth aspect according to the seventeenth or the eighteenth aspect, the control unit is ( 120 ) further configured so that
the vacuum arrangement ( 102 ), air from volume ( 300 . 300 ' ) to be removed between the base unit ( 53 ) and the outer surface of the carrier ( 7 ) is defined before the perforation tool ( 101 ) has started generating the at least one hole, so that a pressure difference between the inside of the carrier or tray ( 7 ) and the volume ( 300 . 300 ' ), and then or simultaneously
Offset of the perforation tool ( 101 ) is commanded to the operating position whereby the sidewall of the carrier is progressively perforated,
furthermore the vacuum arrangement ( 102 ), air within the carrier ( 7 ) while the perforating tool ( 101 ) is held in the operating position.

A twenty-first aspect relates to a process for vacuum skin packaging of at least one on a carrier ( 7 ) arranged product ( 8th ) using the apparatus according to any one of the preceding aspects.

A twenty-second aspect relates to a method for vacuum skin packaging of at least one product placed on a carrier ( 8th ), which includes the following steps:
Providing a film layer ( 61 ) above the at least one carrier ( 7 ), where the product ( 8th ) between the carrier and the film layer ( 61 ) is arranged
airtight fastening of the film layer ( 61 ) on the carrier ( 7 )
Perforate a wall of the carrier to at least one through hole ( 70 ) to build,
Removing at least part of the air within the carrier ( 7 ) below the film layer ( 61 ) through the at least one hole ( 70 ) through.

In a twenty-third aspect according to the preceding aspect, the method steps are carried out sequentially.

In a twenty-fourth aspect according to one of the preceding aspects from the twenty-first to the twenty-third, the method comprises displacing the carrier ( 7 ) above a sliding plane ( 20 ) and along a predefined path from a carrier loading station ( 200 ) to a packaging station ( 201 ), wherein the carrier which receives the product, with the airtight film layer ( 61 ).

In a twenty-fifth aspect according to one of the preceding aspects, from the twenty-first to the twenty-fourth, the perforating step takes place when the carrier is at a station selected from the group consisting of
the packing station,
a tray holder station located upstream of the loading station,
a tray holder station located at the loading station,
a tray forming station located upstream of the packaging station.

In a twenty-sixth aspect according to one of the preceding aspects, from the twenty-first to the twenty-fifth, the perforating step comprises the following sub-steps:
Moving a perforation tool ( 101 ) according to a predetermined direction, which is the side wall of the carrier ( 7 ), and
progressively contacting the outer surface of the side wall with the perforation tool ( 101 ) and forming a flap element ( 70a ) connected to the side wall of the carrier ( 7 ) connected is.

In a twenty-seventh aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects from the twenty-first to the twenty-sixth, the air-removing step comprises:
Removing air from a volume ( 300 . 300 ' ) between a base unit ( 53 ), the carriers ( 7 ) and the outer surface of the support ( 7 ) is defined before a perforation tool ( 101 ) has started generating the at least one hole, so that a pressure difference between the inside of the carrier ( 7 ) and the volume ( 300 . 300 ' ), and then or simultaneously
Commands to move the perforation tool ( 101 ) into the operative position to progressively perforate the sidewall of the wearer,
Continue air inside the vehicle ( 7 ) while the perforating tool ( 101 ) is held in the operating position.

In a twenty-eighth aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects from the twenty-first to the twenty-seventh, the step of airtight fastening the film layer comprises ( 61 ) on the carrier ( 7 ):
Locking a brim of the wearer ( 7 ) and a corresponding section of the film layer ( 61 ) between a heated surface of an upper unit ( 51 ; 51a . 51b ) and a contact surface of a base unit ( 53 )
Holding the carrier ( 7 ), so that the brim of the wearer ( 7 ) and the corresponding section of the film layer ( 61 ) are in mutual contact,
wherein the perforation step takes place before, during or after the locking step.

Further, in a twenty-ninth aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, from the twenty-first to the twenty-eighth, the air-removing step includes waiting until a predetermined period of time has elapsed from the initiation of the air-removing step or a predetermined pressure within the carrier ( 7 ) below the film layer ( 61 ) has been achieved.

In a thirtieth aspect according to one of the preceding aspects from the twenty-first to the twenty-ninth, the method comprises the further steps:
Removing the perforation tool ( 101 ) out of the hole ( 70 ) and
Aligning the flap element ( 70a ) with the side wall so as to substantially close the hole, wherein the film layer ( 61 ) is draped over the product and welded to the carrier so that the flap element ( 70a ) is held in the closed position and the at least one hole ( 70 ) is tightly sealed in the side wall.

In a thirty-first aspect according to the preceding aspect, the removal of the perforating tool takes place either when the desired final vacuum level within the carrier ( 7 ) or when the vacuum has reached a level between the desired vacuum level and the pressure level that existed before the start of the air removal.

In a thirty-second aspect according to one of the preceding aspects from the twenty-first to the thirty-first, the progressive perforation of the sidewall of the carrier comprises forming a cutting line ( 70b ) in the sidewall, possibly starting from a single tear point.

In a thirty-third aspect according to the preceding aspect, the cutting line has an open configuration, so that the flap element (FIG. 70a ) is integrated in the side wall and is delimited by the open cutting line, wherein the flap element ( 70a ) with the side wall by a hinge line ( 70c ) connected between ends of the cutting line ( 70b ).

In a thirty-fourth aspect according to one of the preceding aspects, from the twenty-first to the thirty-third, the side wall of the carrier ends ( 7 ) in an outwardly projecting horizontal brim, the step of airtight fastening the film layer (11) 61 ) on the carrier ( 7 ) Welding the film layer ( 61 ) on at least the top of the horizontal brim.

In a thirty-fifth aspect according to one of the preceding aspects, from the twenty-first to the thirty-fourth, the carrier ( 7 ) a tray having a bottom wall of polygonal, optionally rectangular, shape, and wherein the perforating step comprises forming the hole (s) correspondingly in a corner (s) of the side wall.

In a thirty-sixth aspect according to one of the preceding aspects from the twenty-first to the thirty-fifth, the carrier ( 7 ) a tray having one or more horizontal shoulders provided in the upper half of the sidewall area, each of the horizontal heights being correspondingly located in one of the corners.

In a thirty-seventh aspect according to the preceding aspect, each of the horizontal paragraphs has substantially the shape of a right triangle.

In a thirty-eighth aspect according to the previous aspect, vertical and mutually perpendicular facets emerge from converging orthogonal edges of each of the horizontal paragraphs.

In a thirty-ninth aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, from the thirty-sixth to the thirty-eighth, the perforating step comprises forming the hole (s) correspondingly in a respective corner in the form of an opening through the side wall portion.

A fortieth aspect relates to a vacuum skin package ( 700 ) of the type obtained by the method according to one of the preceding aspects from the twenty-first to the thirty-ninth.

A forty-first aspect relates to a vacuum skin package ( 700 ), z. Of the type obtainable by the method according to any one of the preceding aspects from the twenty-first to the thirty-ninth, which vacuum skin package ( 700 ) comprises:
a tablet ( 701 ), which has a bottom wall ( 702 ) and a side wall ( 703 ) extending upwards from the bottom wall ( 702 ), wherein the side wall at least one hole ( 70 ) in the side wall ( 703 ) having,
a flap element ( 70a ) with the tray side panel ( 703 ), wherein the flap element ( 70a ) according to the hole ( 70 ) is positioned
a product ( 706 ) placed on the tray ( 701 ) is loaded, and
a foil ( 705 ) draped over the product and to the inner surface of the tray ( 701 ) is welded, wherein at least a portion of the film ( 705 ) the flap element ( 70a ) in a fixed position relative to the side wall ( 703 ) and the at least one hole ( 70 ) tightly closes.

In a forty-second aspect according to one of the preceding two aspects, the vacuum skin package comprises the flap element ( 70a ) with the tray side wall ( 703 ) and the hole ( 70 ) substantially closes, wherein the film ( 705 ) on the flap element ( 70a ) adhering to the dimensions of the hole ( 70 ) and with respect to an area of the side wall ( 703 ) remains flush.

In a forty-third aspect according to one of the preceding aspects from the fortieth to the forty-second, the flap element ( 70a ) in the side wall ( 703 ) and through the open cutting line ( 70b ), wherein the flap element ( 70a ) with the side wall ( 703 ) by a hinge line ( 70c ) connected between ends of the cutting line ( 70b ).

In a forty-fourth aspect according to the preceding aspect, the hinge line ( 70c ) has a length (l) which is not greater than the maximum width (w) of the flap element, measured parallel to the hinge line ( 70c ).

In a forty-fifth aspect according to the preceding aspect, the hinge line ( 70c ) has a length (l) greater than 0.2 (1/5) of the maximum width (w) of the flap member.

In a forty-sixth aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects from the forty-third to the forty-fifth, the height (h) of the flap member measured perpendicular to the hinge line is greater than 0.2 of the length (1) of the hinge line.

In a forty-seventh aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects from the forty-third to the forty-sixth, the height (h) of the flap member measured perpendicular to the hinge line is greater than 0.5 of the length (1) of the hinge line.

In a forty-eighth aspect according to one of the preceding aspects, from the forty-third to the forty-seventh, the height (h) of the flap element measured perpendicular to the hinge line is less than 3 times the length of the same hinge line.

In a forty-ninth aspect according to one of the preceding aspects from the fortieth to the forty-eighth, the side wall of the carrier ends ( 7 ) upward in an outwardly projecting horizontal brim ( 704 ).

In a fiftieth aspect according to the preceding aspect, the film ( 705 ) also welded to the top of the horizontal brim.

In a fifty-first aspect according to one of the preceding aspects from the fortieth to the fiftieth, the bottom wall ( 702 ) of the tray of polygonal, possibly rectangular, shape.

In a fifty-second aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects from the fortieth to the fifty-first, the hole or holes are located (FIG. 70 ) corresponding in a corner / corners of the side wall ( 703 ).

In a fifty-third aspect according to one of the preceding aspects from the fortieth to the fifty-second, the sidewall comprises 703 ) one or more horizontal shoulders located in the upper half of the area of the side wall ( 703 ) are provided, each of the horizontal paragraphs being arranged correspondingly in one of the corners.

In a fifty-fourth aspect according to the preceding aspect, each of the horizontal paragraphs has substantially the shape of a right-angled triangle.

In a fifty-fifth aspect according to the preceding aspect, vertical and mutually perpendicular facets emerge from converging orthogonal edges of each of the horizontal paragraphs.

In a fifty-sixth aspect according to one of the preceding aspects from the fortieth to the fifty-fifth, each hole ( 70 ) corresponding to in a respective corner of the carrier or tray in the form of an opening through the portion of the side wall ( 703 ) educated.

In a fifty-seventh aspect according to one of the preceding aspects from the fortieth to the fifty-sixth, the side wall ends ( 703 ) in an outwardly projecting horizontal brim and comprises horizontal shoulders at corner regions, the sidewall (FIG. 703 2) has a protective protrusion, each horizontal step is vertically positioned at a lower height compared to the outwardly projecting horizontal brim, and each horizontal step between the protrusion and another sidewall section (FIG. 703 ) extending from the horizontal shoulder and terminating at the horizontal brim.

Brief description of the drawings

The present invention will become more apparent by reading the following detailed description, given by way of non-limiting example and read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

1 FIG. 3 is a side view of an apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention, with certain components shown only schematically; FIG.

2 a more detailed side view of a portion of the machine of 1 is

3 an enlarged view of a section of 2 is

4 a perspective view of a portion of the apparatus of 1 in operation,

5a to 5h show various steps of Vakuumskinverpackens according to a variant of the invention,

5i an enlarged view of a section of 5d shows,

5y an enlarged view of a variant of the details shown in 5d are disclosed

5k an enlarged view of a further variant of the details shown in 5d are disclosed

6a to 6h show different steps of vacuum skin packaging according to a second variant,

7 3 is a perspective view of another apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention, with certain components shown only schematically;

8a . 9a . 9a ' . 10a . 11a . 12a represent perspective views of the tip sections of various possible variants of the perforation units according to aspects of the invention,

8b . 9b . 9b ' . 10b . 11b . 12b each cross sections of the tip sections of 8a . 9a . 9a ' . 10a . 11a . 12a represent

8c . 9c . 9c ' . 10c . 11c . 12c respectively longitudinal sections of the top of 8a . 9a . 10a . 11a . 12a represent

13 - 15 are schematic and partially broken sections of trays or carriers after perforation in accordance with aspects of the invention,

16 is a perspective view of a tray or a carrier before the perforation takes place,

17a a top view of the tray of 16 is

17b is a cross section of the corner region of the tray or carrier according to a sectional plane, the in 17a is represented,

18a a top view of another example of a tray or carrier is before perforation takes place

18b is a cross section of the corner portion of the tray or carrier according to the sectional plane, which in 18a is shown

19a is a plan view of yet another example of a tray or carrier before perforation takes place,

19b is a cross section of the corner portion of the tray or carrier according to the sectional plane, which in 19a is shown

20 and 20a broken cross-sections of a package according to another aspect of the invention,

21a to 21d are enlarged and schematic views of the area of the side wall of a tray having a hole and a flap member according to aspects of the invention,

22a . 22b . 22c each is a top, side and front view of another embodiment of a tip portion of the perforation unit according to another aspect of the invention;

22d a perspective view of the tip portion of 22a - 22c is and

23 a perspective view of the tip portion of 22a - 22c in an operating condition in which the tip portion perforates the side wall of a tray.

Detailed description

It should be noted that in the present detailed description corresponding parts shown in the various figures are identified by the same reference numeral within the figures. It should be noted that the figures are not to scale.

First embodiment of the apparatus 1

1 . 2 . 3 and 4 show an apparatus 1 for packaging a product placed on a carrier or tray according to an embodiment of the present invention. The apparatus 1 For example, it is configured to vacuum skin wrap the product, draping a thin sheet of plastic material down onto the product and adhering tightly to an upper brim and the inner surface of the carrier or tray, as well as to the product surface, thereby minimizing air, if any, inside the packaging remains.

The apparatus 1 includes a frame 10 , a transport assembly 2 for putting on the carrier or tablet 7 is configured, a roll support assembly 3 , a foil cutting assembly 4 , a packaging assembly 5 and a vacuum arrangement 102 (visible in the schematics of the 5a . 5b ), such as a vacuum pump or the like. Of course, the presence of a foil cutting assembly is not necessarily necessary in view of the claimed invention: alternatively, the foil may be fed directly from the roll to the carrier or tray without being precut; In this case, foil cutting can take place - if necessary - after the foil has been applied to the carrier 7 attached and / or air inside the vehicle 7 was deducted. The carrier transport assembly 2 includes a slip plane 20 and a conveyor belt 21 in sliding contact with the slip plane 20 is arranged. The carrier transport assembly 2 is z. B. attached to the frame 10 so worn that the slip plane 20 is essentially horizontal and the conveyor belt 21 in contact with the glide plane 20 slides in the horizontal direction, represented by the in 1 shown arrow A1. The on the frame 10 arranged transport assembly 2 is for displacing the carrier or tablet 7 along a predefined path from a loading station 200 where carriers or trays that may already be filled with the particular product (s) to a packaging station 201 configured where the packaging assembly 5 works to a foil layer 61 Taut on any carrier or tray 7 to attach, as described in detail below. It should be noted that the products are either upstream of the loading station 200 or at any position between the loading station and the packaging station 201 on the carrier or tray 7 can be positioned.

Next to the frame 10 and in conjunction with the packaging station 201 indicates the slip plane 20 an opening 20a on (visible eg in 5a to 5h ) for engagement by the packaging assembly 5 is suitable, as will be described in more detail below. The carrier transport assembly 2 further comprises an engine, e.g. B. a stepper motor unit 22 , for operating the conveyor belt 21 with a gradual movement. The roll support assembly 3 can have two rotating cylinders 31 . 32 include horizontally from an upper part of the frame 10 protrude and to carry a roll of film 6 are suitable. The roll support assembly 3 Optionally, one may further attach to the frame 10 attached arm 33 include, which is adapted to axial movement of the film roll 6 to prevent. The roll support assembly 3 (please refer 2 ) may further foil punching facilities 34 essentially configured to impart the correct profile to the film edges when transversal in the cutter assembly 4 is cut to correspond to the shape of the tray opening with rounded corners. The punching equipment 34 can also help to unroll a section of the film 60 that of the film roll 6 was pulled, essentially aligned vertically hold. Alternatively, the film from the film roll 6 unwound and moved horizontally instead of vertically, as shown in the figures, to a first pull roll. The punching equipment 34 can in such a case closer to the roll of film 6 in the space between the film roll 6 and the first pull roll to be positioned and rotated 90 degrees to punch the film while it is horizontal.

The on the film roll 6 Rolled film may be made of a flexible multilayer material comprising at least a first outer heat sealable layer, an optional gas barrier layer and a second outer heat resistant layer. The outer heat-sealable layer may comprise a polymer that can be welded to the inner surface of the substrates bearing the products to be packaged, such as ethylene homo- or copolymers such as LDPE, ethylene / α-olefin copolymers, ethylene / acrylic acid copolymers Ethylene / methacrylic acid copolymers and ethylene / vinyl acetate copolymers, ionomers, copolyesters, e.g. Eg PETG. The optional gas barrier layer preferably comprises oxygen impermeable resins such as PVDC, EVOH, polyamides, and mixtures of EVOH and polyamides. The outer heat-resistant layer may be made of ethylene homo- or copolymers, ethylene / cyclic olefin copolymers such as ethylene / norbornene copolymers, propylene homo- or copolymers, ionomers, (co) polyesters, (co) polyamides. The film may also include other layers, such as subbing layers or bulk layers, to increase the thickness of the film and improve its mechanical properties. In one embodiment, one or more layers of the film are crosslinked to improve the strength of the film and / or its heat resistance. Crosslinking can be accomplished using chemical additives, or by subjecting the film layers to high energy radiation treatment. The film preferably has a thickness which is between 50 μm and 200 μm, in particular between 60 and 180 μm and particularly preferably between 70 μm and 150 μm. The film preferably has a width which is substantially equal to or a few mm smaller than the width of the carrier carrying the product to be packaged.

The foil cutting assembly 4 preferably comprises a cutting device 40 with a cutting blade 401 and a first piston 41 , The first piston 41 can be replaced by any other type of electric, pneumatic or hydraulic linear actuator. The first piston 41 is preferably on the frame 10 below the roll support assembly 3 attached and with the cutting device 40 connected so as to push and pull them in the horizontal direction, as by the in 3 shown double arrow A2 is shown. The foil cutting assembly 4 further comprises a backside block 42 and a second piston 43 , The second piston 43 can be replaced by any other type of electric, pneumatic or hydraulic linear actuator. The second piston 43 is preferably on the frame 10 attached and with the back block 42 connected so as to push and pull it in the vertical direction, as by the in 3 shown double arrow A3 is shown. The backside block 42 preferably comprises a back plate 421 with a number of holes and a backside element 422 with a slot 423 , The cutting device 40 and the backside block 42 are preferably arranged so that the unrolled portion of the film 60 , which is deducted from the film roll, lies between them.

The in the 1 - 4 shown packaging assembly 5 includes a rotating cylinder 50 standing on the frame 10 is mounted and adapted to rotate about its X-axis, as indicated by the double arrow A4 shown in FIG 3 , The X-axis preferably forms an angle of about 45 ° with the vertical direction. The rotating cylinder 50 can be replaced by any other type of electric, pneumatic or hydraulic rotary actuator. The packaging assembly 5 further comprises two film transfer plates 51a . 51b and two third pistons 52a . 52b , The third pistons 52a . 52b can be replaced by any other type of electric, pneumatic or hydraulic linear actuator. The third pistons 52a . 52b are with the rotating cylinder 50 connected so that a substantially right angle is formed between them, ie that the axis of one of the two third piston (eg. 52a ) is oriented vertically and the axis of the other (eg. 52b ) oriented horizontally, as in 3 is shown. Each of the third pistons 52a . 52b is with a respective foil transfer plate 51a . 51b connected so as to push and pull along the direction represented by the double arrows A5 and A6, respectively. The position of the two pistons 52a . 52b and the respective foil transfer plates 51a . 51b can by rotation of the rotating cylinder 50 180 degrees (either clockwise or counterclockwise) about the X axis. Each foil transfer plate 51a . 51b can with a heatable surface 510 and with at least one opening 520 (visible in 5a to 5h ), which opening with the above-mentioned vacuum arrangement 2 connected is. The transfer plates 51a and 51b are illustrated in the drawings as flat surfaces according to a possible embodiment of the present invention. However, it is contemplated that molded transfer plates may be used having an inner concave portion with surrounding planar edges corresponding to the brim of the wearer carrying the product to be packaged. This would have the advantage that it would also be possible to package products that tower above the carrier.

The packaging assembly 5 further comprises a base unit 53 and a fourth piston 54 , The fourth piston 54 can be replaced by any other type of electric, pneumatic or hydraulic linear actuator. The fourth piston 54 is on the frame 10 below the slip plane 20 attached and with the base unit 53 connected so as to at least a part thereof in the vertical direction, represented by the in 3 shown double arrow A7, through the opening 20a the slipway 20 to push and pull. Each of the transfer plates 51a . 51b forms (alternatively) an upper unit associated with the base unit 53 interacts, leaving a holder 103 is defined, which is configured such that a predetermined position of the carrier 7 during perforation of the side wall of the carrier or tray 7 is held. According to one aspect of the invention, the carrier or the tray 7 actually to the packaging station 201 moved through a holder 103 that by base unit 53 and upper unit 51a . 51b is formed, held in place and then perforated to one or more holes 70 to produce on the side wall. In practice, the base unit 53 and the upper unit (formed by plate 51a or plate 51b ) relatively movable, so a brim 7a of the carrier 7 and a corresponding section 61a the film layer 61 in contact between a heated surface of the upper unit and a bearing surface of the base unit 53 to place (see section in 5i ). The apparatus 1 comprises at least one perforating unit 100 with a perforation tool 101 that between a resting position in which the tool 101 from the side wall of the carrier or tray 7 is spaced, and an operating position in which the tool 101 on the carrier 7 acts and at least one through hole 70 forms in the side wall, can be operated. The or each perforation unit 100 (in the 5a to 5i if two perforation units are shown, but of course more than two perforation units can be provided) more precisely comprises an actuator 104 (which may be a pneumatic piston, a hydraulic piston or an electric actuator or other type of actuator), with the perforation tool 101 connected and offset the perforation tool 101 configured according to a predetermined direction of perforation DP, which is the side wall of the carrier 7 crosses when the latter is placed in the predetermined position.

Although z. B. 5c a horizontally moving perforation tool shows, it should be noted that each perforation unit can also be configured so that the perforation tool z. B. is moved vertically, as in 5y It should be noted that in this case, the perforation tool can puncture a horizontal heel passing through the side wall of the tray or carrier 7 under the vertical upper brim 7a can be formed.

Possible configurations of the perforation tool according to aspects of the invention are described in FIGS 8a - 8c . 9a - 9c . 9a ' - 9c ' . 10a - 10c . 11a - 11c and 12a - 12c shown. The perforation tool 101 has, as shown in these figures, a tapered tip 105 which is responsible for progressively contacting the sidewall of the wearer 7 when moving the perforation tool 101 is configured from the rest position to the operating position: In practice, the tapered tip moves in the direction of the tray or carrier 7 and is shaped to initially pierce the sidewall in a very limited area, for example correspondingly in a single point, and then progressively create a cutting line. In this context, the tapered tip 105 one or more cutting edges 106 on: Each cutting edge is defined by a sharp surface corresponding to the limits of the tip 105 is positioned.

The examples of 8a - 8c . 9a - 9c and 9a ' - 9c ' have a continuous cutting edge that extends along a closed line and has a polygonal shape, e.g. As a square or rectangular or diamond-shaped (see sections in the 9b and 9b ' ) or a rounded shape (see section in 8b ). The cutting edge lies on a plane which is at an angle α with respect to a longitudinal axis 110a of the tool 110 is inclined. The foremost portion of the edge may have a cutting line (as in FIG 9a ) or a cutting point (as in 9a ' ) define.

In the example of 10a - 10c The tip includes two cutting edges 106 which converge to form a V-shaped geometry (see 10a ). The two converging cutting edges lie on a plane which is at an angle α with respect to a longitudinal axis 110a of the tool 110 inclined ( 10c ). The foremost portion of the tip, where the two cutting edges converge, defines a cutting point (FIG. 10a . 10c ). The converging cutting edges 106 end in areas 107 That when the tip is in the sidewall of the wearer or tablet 7 is introduced, help to shut the door 70a keep open ( 10d ). The two surfaces 107 can, as in 10a can be seen, parallel to each other and to the axis 110a extend. As in 10d can be seen, the tip may not define a hollow passage, and thus can air through windows 105b be evacuated by surfaces 107 and through the outer surface of the side wall of the carrier 7 is defined.

The examples of 11a . 11c . 12a - 12c have two cutting edges, each symmetrically on one side of the tip 105 is arranged so that the tip with respect to a plane of symmetry, which is the longitudinal axis 110a of tools 110 passes through, has perfect symmetry. Each of the cutting edges 106 is at an angle α with respect to a longitudinal axis 110a of the tool 110 inclined ( 12c ).

Another embodiment of a tip 105 is in the 22a - 22d and 23 shown. In this embodiment, the tip comprises two cutting edges 106 with distal sections 106a , which form a V-shaped geometry (see 22a ) at the distal end of the tip 105 converge. The two distal sections 106a the cutting edges 106 can through side boundaries of a flat base 105a the top 105 can be defined and can at an angle α with respect to a longitudinal axis 110a be inclined (again in relation to 22a ). The cutting edges also close two more sections 106b one adjacent to and in continuation of the distal sections 106a from the base 105 go out; according to one aspect, the two further sections become 106b continuously to sections 106a attached and can progressively based 105a exit to form a substantially arcuate profile, as shown in FIG 106b is visible. The sections 106 ends in non-cutting surfaces 107 extending towards the proximal end of the tip 105 extend and an opening 105b delimit that to base 105a has. The non-cutting surfaces 107 can be essentially parallel to the floor surface 105a and axis 110a extend. As in 23 is further shown, which extends through surfaces 107 axially delimited opening 105b parallel to axis 110a so that when the top passes through the side panel of the carrier or tray 7 penetrates, flap 70a through front sections of the surfaces 107 is held open while the rear portions of the surfaces 107 an opening or a window 105b of sufficient size to allow the aspiration of air / gas coming from the inside of the tray. As in the view of 22b shown can be the sections 106b the cutting edges 106 be arcuate and thus converge, so that parallel surfaces are defined, which extend at a distance 'd' to each other, which is smaller than the maximum distance 'w' between cutting edges 106 is: This offers, as in 23 you can see the advantage of having surfaces 107 effectively push the flap into the open position and hold there when the tip 105 the carrier sidewall perforated.

In the examples shown represents the perforation tool 101 an elongated, z. B. straight design and extends along the longitudinal axis 101 of the prevailing structure which is substantially aligned with the perforation direction DP. In all the above examples, the tapered tip 105 Cutting edges on, relative to axis 110a are inclined and thus inclined relative to the predetermined direction of perforation DP, so that the tapered tip 105 in perforation of the sidewall of the wearer 7 Progressively cuts a flap element in the side wall, as in 5i is shown: the section can (at least together with the embodiments of the 9a ' . 10a . 22a ) begin substantially correspondingly in a single point and then continue to run so that the perforation force can be minimized.

The flap member may be a lower portion of the side wall of the carrier 7 or an upper portion of the side wall of the carrier 7 be appropriate (see 13 and 14 ). Alternatively, if in 11a . 11c . 12a - 12c shown perforating tools, two opposite flap elements can be produced, as in 15 you can see.

According to another aspect, as in the example of 10a - 10c and in the example of 22a - 22d shown is the top 105 non-cutting surfaces 107 on, resulting in continuation of the cutting edges 106 extend parallel to each other, leaving an opening 105b which is used for this air / gas, when the tip is inserted into the tray wall (see 10d and 23 ). The non-cutting surfaces 107 become axial with respect to the distal end of the tapered tip 105 offset so that when perforated the side wall of the carrier 7 the tapering tip 105 the flap member cuts into the sidewall and the non-cutting surface helps to urge the flap member into an open position. In the examples of 8a - 8c . 9a - 9c . 9a ' - 9c ' . 11a - 11c and 12a - 12c it is the outside wall of the top 105 that the flap element 70a pushes in the open position.

According to a further aspect of the invention, the perforation tool 101 each perforation unit in the form of a tubular needle with at least one inner lumen 108 Normally, a needle with a lumen is the simplest solution, although in 12a - 12c an embodiment of a multi-blade needle is shown). The lumen and outer surface of the needle may have a round, elliptical or polygonal cross-section. Of course, other designs may equally be suitable. The needle lumen 108 communicates with the top opening 109 that at least partially by cutting edges 106 is delimited and with the vacuum arrangement 101 is connected to air from the top opening 109 to pull when the perforation tool is in the operating position.

Depending on whether the perforation tool is in the form of a hollow needle or not, various alternatives are conceivable.

As in 5i is shown schematically, the perforation tool 101 if it is in the form of a hollow needle, a suction port 110 on that in relation to the top opening 109 axially spaced so as to form a tubular tract 111 to define, which extends between the suction port and the tip opening, the passage 532 and the thickness of the side wall of the carrier 7 passes through when the perforation tool is in the operating position. It should be noted that in the case where the actuator 104 through an outer fastened element 530 possibly no passage 532 Thus, the needle can be fully contained within the volume within the element 530 lies.

If the perforating tool is not a hollow needle (for example, in the case where a tip is used, as in Figs 22a - 22d or 10d shown), is alternatively instead of the suction port 110 window 105b on the side wall of the top 105 used for drawing in air, as in 5k and 23 you can see. This solution is particularly advantageous because air can be efficiently withdrawn since pressure drops are minimized. top 105 is in any case axially with the shaft of the actuator 104 connected.

The aspiration of the air may be initiated under operational aspects when the perforating tool passes 532 (if present), but the side wall of the carrier or tray 7 not yet perforated. Suction is by vacuum arrangement 102 generated, the z. B. comprises a vacuum pump, which vacuum arrangement with channels 530a and or 530b is conveniently connected to the side wall and / or bottom wall of element 530 are arranged (see 5i . 5y . 5k ): This creates a pressure difference between the inside of the carrier or tablet 7 and the volume 300 that between the base unit 53 and the outer surface of the tray or carrier 7 is defined, wherein the pressure difference expedient the entire carrier 7 pushes against the / the perforation tool (s) and therefore supports the perforation process. In these embodiments, in which the actuator (s) 104 yourself outside of element 532 is the sliding coupling of the perforating units over the respective passages 532 preferably a press-fit sliding.

In the attached figures, the perforation unit becomes 100 worn through the frame and works in conjunction with the packaging station 201 so that one or more holes in the sidewall of the wearer / wearer or trays 7 is formed, which are respectively present in the packaging station. The perforation unit 100 may alternatively in conjunction with a tablet holding station 400 (in 1 only schematically), configured to have a number of empty carriers in predetermined positions 7 is held; the tote holding station may be located on or upstream of the loading station: in this case, the perforation unit 100 be configured so that at least one hole in the side wall of the one or more carriers 7 is formed, located in the tablet holding station 400 (in this case, the perforation unit can pass through the frame 4 or an independent own frame 401 the tablet holding station 400 be worn).

The perforation unit 100 According to another alternative, it may work in conjunction with a tray forming station (not shown) for forming trays or carriers 7 from z. B. a slide is configured; the tray forming station may be located on or upstream of the loading station.

The base unit 53 according to a first variant is with respect to 5a to 5k described in more detail. The perforation unit 100 is located according to the first preferred variant at the packaging station, and the base unit 53 preferably comprises an outer fastened element 530 and an inner lubricious element 531 , The outer fastened element 530 has a base and sidewall defining a central cavity. The outer fastened element 530 is preferably with one or more continuous passes 532 for slidingly receiving the perforation tool 101 from each perforation unit 100 fitted. The passages 532 are especially configured to match the position at the holes 70 to be placed on sidewalls of a tablet, that of the inner lubricious element 531 is worn on the basis of the outer fastened element 530 rests; as mentioned above, there may not be any passages 532 required if the actuator or the actuators 104 from the element 530 be worn in a way in which the perforation tool directly into volume 300 penetrates. Luftansaugdurchgänge 530a and or 530b can z. B. on the side wall or the bottom wall of the outer fastened element 530 be positioned as in the 5i to 5k is illustrated. The Inner surface of the side wall of the outer fastened element 530 is preferably adjusted so that it corresponds to the dimensions of the carrier on which the product to be packaged is arranged. The base of the outer fastened element 530 has a central hole. The outer fastened element 530 is possibly attached to the frame 10 below the slip plane 20 attached. The inner lubricious element 531 may comprise a base plate and a stem with the fourth piston 54 is connected (in 5a to 5k not shown) and into the central hole of the base of the outer fastened element 530 intervenes. The inner lubricious element 531 is in the central cavity of the outer fastened element 530 by means of the fourth piston 54 between a first position (in 5a . 5b and 5h shown), in which its base plate in the opening 20a the slipway 20 engages and essentially with the slip plane 20 is aligned, and a second position (in 5c to 5g shown) in which its base plate is based on the outer fastened element 530 rests. The operation of the apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment with the base unit 53 according to the first variant described above will now be described in detail.

The heatable surface 510 the foil transfer plates 51a . 51b is first heated to a predefined temperature. The predefined temperature is preferably between 190 ° C and 230 ° C. It is believed that the third piston 52a . 52b with the foil transfer plates 51a . 51b initially in the 3 shown configuration, ie the axis of the third piston 52a is vertically oriented and the axis of the third piston 52b is horizontally oriented.

The foil cutting assembly 4 then preferably begins with the cutting of the film layers 61 from the unrolled portion of the film 60 that is between the cutting device 40 and the backside block 42 is vertically aligned. Before each cut pushes in particular the second piston 43 the backside block 42 in the vertical direction, in 3 shown by the double arrow A3, until the rear side element 422 to the cutter 40 has. Then, the unrolled portion of the film 60 pulled until it has a predefined length, preferably the length of the tray or the carrier 7 equivalent. This can be done by any conventional method, such as by means of a transducer that controls the angular position of the rotating cylinder 31 and controls its movement appropriately to provide the predefined length of the unrolled film. When the unrolled section of the film 60 has the predefined length, pushes the first piston 41 preferably the cutting device 40 in the horizontal direction, indicated by the double arrow A2 of 3 is shown until the cutter 40 against the backside element 422 to rest and the cutting blade 401 in the slot 423 engages, creating a foil layer 61 is cut, whose width and length equal to the width or the length of the carrier 7 are. After the foil layer 61 has been cut, the first piston pulls 41 preferably the cutting device 40 in the by the double arrow A2 of 3 illustrated horizontal direction, whereby the cutting device 40 from the film layer 61 and the backside element 422 is moved away. The second piston 43 preferably at least at the same time pulls the back block 42 down in the vertical direction, the in 3 shown by the double arrow A3, until the back plate 421 the film transfer plate 51b opposite (as in 3 shown). At substantially the same time, vacuum will be through the holes of the back plate 421 drawn.

While the backside block 42 is pulled down, the film layer 61 also pulled down, as through the holes of the back plate 421 drawn vacuum the film layer 61 keeps connected with this. While the backside block 42 pulled down, also pushes the third piston 52b the film transfer plate 51b in the horizontal direction, which is represented by the double arrow A6, until the film transfer plate 51b on the back panel 421 rests, with the film layer 61 is arranged between them.

Then vacuum through the vacuum pump through the at least one opening 520 the film transfer plate 51b between the heatable surface 510 the film transfer plate 51b and the film layer 61 applied while vacuum through the holes of the back panel 421 is broken. In this way, the film transfer plate stops 51b the film layer 61 by adhesion, ie the film layer 61 adheres to the heatable surface 510 the film transfer plate 51b , If the film layer 61 in contact with the heatable surface 510 (which, as already mentioned, is heated to the predefined temperature), it advantageously begins to heat up and soften.

While continuing to vacuum between the heated surface 510 and the film layer 61 is applied, pulls the third piston 52b with horizontally oriented axis then preferably the film transfer plate 51b along the direction in 3 represented by the double arrows A6, leaving them from the back panel 421 is moved away. The film layer 61 adheres due to the vacuum advantageous still on the heatable surface 510 ,

In the meantime, products to be packaged become 8th on respective carriers 7 arranged, such as trays. This can, for example, at the loading station 200 respectively. Every carrier 7 preferably has a base, a side wall and an upper brim 7a which protrudes outwards from the upper edge of the side wall. In the in the 5a to 5i example shown have the trays or the carrier 7 no holes until they reach the packing station 201 to reach.

The trays or carriers 7 are preferably made of single-layered or multi-layered thermoplastic material having gas barrier properties. Exemplary single layer thermoplastic gas barrier materials are (co) polyesters, (co) polyamides, and the like. If a multilayer thermoplastic material is used, the multilayer thermoplastic material preferably comprises at least one gas barrier layer and at least one heat-sealable layer to weld the film layer 61 to the surface of the carrier 7 to enable. Exemplary gas barrier polymers that can be used for the gas barrier layer are PVDC, EVOH, (co) polyamides, (co) polyesters, and mixtures thereof. The heat-sealable layer is preferably made of a polyolefin, such as ethylene homo- or copolymers, e.g. B. in particular polyethylene, ethylene-α-olefin copolymers and ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers, propylene homo- or copolymers, such as ethylene-propylene copolymers and ethylene-propylene-α-olefin terpolymers and ionomers, or from homo- or copolyesters, e.g. B. PETG (a glycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate). The multilayer thermoplastic material may also include adhesive layers to better adhere the gas barrier layer to the adjacent layers. It may also include bulk layers to provide the structure with sufficient thickness and / or mechanical properties. Chemically or physically foamed layers may be present in the carrier 7 be present, in particular for use as a mass layers. As is known in the art, other layers may also be present to the carrier 7 to be provided with certain desired properties, for. B. layers that are suitable to make the final package easier to open or reclosable. The total thickness of the single-layered or multi-layered thermoplastic material is preferably less than 2 mm, and may be, for example, between 0.2 mm and 1.2 mm, and more preferably between 0.3 mm and 1.0 mm.

The carriers 7 with the products placed on it then are on the slip plane 20 supported, so that the conveyor belt 21 she brings to glide, z. B. gradually along the slip plane 20 at the loading station 200 in the direction of the packaging station 201 , which direction by the arrow A1 of 1 is specified. One of the carriers 7 with a product arranged thereon 8th slides, as in 5a can be seen, gradually along the sliding plane 20 under the effect of the conveyor belt 21 (in 5a not shown) until it opens 20a reached, in which the base unit 53 engages, and is therefore on the base plate of the inner lubricious element 531 arranged.

While the conveyor belt 21 the carrier 7 on the base plate of the inner lubricious element 531 brings, the rotating cylinder rotates 50 preferably 180 ° about its X-axis, so that the positions of the film transfer plates 51a . 51b be reversed. The axis of the third piston 52b is therefore now oriented vertically, and the film transfer plate 51b that the film layer 61 holds, is now above the carrier 7 and the product 8th (please refer 5b ). Between the heatable surface 510 the film transfer plate 51b and the film layer 61 applied vacuum is symbolically represented by the arrow A8.

The inner lubricious element 531 is then through the fourth piston 54 moved downwards in the vertical direction, represented by the arrow A7 in FIG 3 until its base is based on the outer fastened element 530 (please refer 5c ) rest.

While continuing to vacuum between the heated surface 510 and the film layer 61 is applied, pushes the third piston 52 then the film transfer plate 51b (which in this case is the upper element of the holder 103 embodied) along the vertical direction downwards, represented by the arrow A5 of FIG 3 until the heated area 510 in the brim of the wearer 7 engages through the outer fastened element 530 the base unit 53 is worn, and the film layer 61 the opening of the carrier 7 covered, as in 5d is shown. The edges of the film layer 61 are preferably in airtight manner by the pressure of the film transfer plate 51b at the brim of the wearer 7 attached.

Vacuum or a state of low pressure will then be in the volume 300 between the inner surface of element 53 and the outer surface of the carrier or tray 7 by actuation of suction pump 102 generated - via openings 530a . 530b , Substantially simultaneously or subsequently becomes the perforation unit 100 (or units) activates the perforation tool 101 from the rest position to the operating position, whereby at least one through hole 70 is formed on the carrier side wall, wherein a passage is formed, which is the interior of the carrier or tray 7 in fluid communication with volume 300 and thereby with the vacuum pump 102 brings; It should be noted that when the tip is in the form of a needle, suction from inside the tray or carrier 7 through the needle cavity via suction port 110 and pump 102 he follows; if the tip is not hollow ( 10d and 23 ), the suction from the inside of the tray or carrier takes place through the window 105b the top. Air intake through passages 530a and or 530b may, as mentioned, be initiated when the perforating tool is the side wall of the carrier or tray 7 (please refer 5i ) has not yet perforated: this condition creates a pressure differential between the interior of the carrier or tray 7 and the volume 300 that between the base unit 53 and the outer surface of the tray or carrier 7 is defined; the pressure difference acts as a contrast pushing the entire carrier against the inner surface of the base unit and against the perforating tool (s), thus supporting the perforation process. The perforating tool progressively perforates the sidewall of the tray or carrier in a second phase to form a flap member, as in Figs 13 - 15 is shown. It should be noted that in the case of a plurality of perforation units, these units may be synchronously controlled to simultaneously cover the sidewall of the carrier or tray 7 to penetrate in respective distinguishable positions. A single actuator 104 can be used to make a variety, eg. B. all, the perforation units 101 to move.

After the perforation tool hole or holes 70 is generated and has reached its operating position, air from the inside of the carrier or tablet 7 using the vacuum pump 102 through the holes just created 70 and the lumens 108 and opening 110 or over windows 105b away, as indicated by the arrows A9 in FIG 5e is shown. This expediently generates vacuum within the carrier 7 below the film layer 61 (ie the pressure is reduced). It stands out that the foil layer 61 still on the heatable surface 510 can stick even if vacuum under the film layer 61 is produced. This is due to the fact that the between the heatable surface 510 and the film layer 61 produced low pressure is below the low pressure, which is below the film layer 61 was generated.

After a predefined low pressure inside the vehicle 7 below the film layer 61 has been reached (typically in the range of up to 50 mbar, preferably between 3 and 40 mbar, in particular between 5 and 30 mbar and particularly preferably in the range of 10-20 mbar), air is again between the heated surface 510 and the film layer 61 through the at least one opening 520 the film transfer plate 51b introduced as indicated by the arrow A8 of 5f is pictured. Air can be returned either immediately after reaching the predefined low pressure or after a predefined extra time. Alternatively, air is reintroduced when a predefined time elapses (typically between 0.5 and 2.5 seconds and preferably between 1 and 2 seconds). The film layer 61 then stop, on the heatable surface 510 to stick, and is due to the vacuum inside the carrier 7 pulled down. While the film layer 61 is pulled down, the vacuum pump preferably continues to remove air through the holes 70 from the carrier 7 , The film layer 61 that is in the carrier 7 moved downwards, helps to make sure that air through the holes 70 from the carrier 7 can escape. Because the film layer 61 heated (and thus softened), it deforms under the influence of the vacuum within the carrier 7 so to the product 8th and the inner surface of the carrier 7 to stick, as in 5f is shown. The removal of air from inside the wearer 7 can be continued advantageously until the holes 70 through the film layer 61 be closed. It should be noted that the perforation tool, so that the film layer can close the holes, in the in 5f retracted position in which the tapered tip in the passages 532 is received or at least in a position in which the tapered tip is not from the inner surface of the carrier or tray 7 protrudes. Once the foil layer 61 the holes 70 closes by attaching to the inner surface of the carrier 7 the flap elements are also brought to close the respective holes, whereby the removal of air from the interior of the carrier 7 is prevented. When the removal of air from the inside of the carrier 7 prevented, the evacuation of the packaging ends.

The foil transfer plate 51b is then through the third piston 52b in the direction indicated by the arrow A5 of 3 drawn vertical direction, whereby it from the base unit 53 (please refer 5g ) is moved away.

Vacuum is coming from under the carrier 7 broken, and then pushes the fourth piston 54 preferably the inner lubricious element 531 the base unit 53 in the by the arrow A7 the 3 shown vertical direction until the inner lubricious element 531 again essentially with the slip plane 20 (please refer 5h ) is aligned. That way, the wearer can 7 gradually further along the slip plane 20 under the influence of the conveyor belt 21 slide in the horizontal direction, as shown by the arrow A1.

The operation of a single film transfer plate 51b has been taken into account in the above description since the apparatus 1 may include a single transfer plate. In one possible variant, the apparatus 1 of the 1 - 4 indeed include a single transfer plate. In this case, the performance of the apparatus would be slightly worse than a solution according to one of the 1 - 4 as the single transfer plate during a first period with the unrolled section the foil 60 would have to cooperate to separate a pre-attached film section and for a second period with the base unit 53 to seal the film and allow evacuation of air. Apart from that, the structure and operation of the apparatus would change 1 do not change significantly.

In the apparatus 1 of the 1 - 4 However, two film transfer plates 51a . 51b operated simultaneously. Your operation is preferably synchronized as follows.

While the film transfer plate 51b at the steps of the 5d to 5f involved (ie in contact with the base unit 53 is) cuts the foil cutter assembly 4 another film layer as described above (the back block 42 is pushed upwards until the backside element 422 to the cutter 40 points, the cutting device 40 becomes horizontal against the backside element 422 pushed, whereby the further film layer is cut, the cutter 40 is from the backside element 422 moved away and the back block 42 is pulled down until the back plate 421 to the film transfer plate 51a points, the film transfer plate 51a is against the back panel 421 pushed, with the more film layer is placed between them, vacuum is between the heatable surface of the film transfer plate 51a and the further film layer applied, so that the film transfer plate 51a the further foil layer stops, and the further foil layer holding foil transfer plate 51a is from the back panel 421 away). Successively, the film transfer plate 51b preferably from the base unit 53 ( 5g ) and the carrier 7 is at the height of the slip plane 20 ( 5h ) raised. With z. B. a single step of the stepping motor unit 22 then remove the conveyor belt 21 the carrier 7 from the base unit 53 and brings another carrier with another product on the inner lubricious element 531 the base unit 53 , The further carrier is applied to the inner lubricious element 531 brought and the element 531 is lowered while the rotating cylinder 50 preferably rotated through an angle of about 180 ° about its X-axis, whereby the positions of the film transfer plates 51a . 51b be reversed. The heating surface 510 is then lowered to the brim of the wearer 7 to intervene by the outer fastened element 530 the base unit 53 will be carried. The foil transfer plate 51a , which holds the further film layer, is therefore now above the other carrier or tray 7 and acts as the supreme unit of the holder 103 , In the 5d to 5h The operations shown are then repeated to provide another product packaged according to the vacuum skin packaging technique.

The operation of the apparatus 1 repeats cyclically in accordance with the above synchronism, thereby vacuum packing on a number of carriers 7 each with loaded products 8th is implemented sequentially on the slip plane 20 are provided.

The machine described above has many advantages.

First, the provision of holes allows 70 in the carrier 7 Advantageously, the removal of air within the carrier 7 below the film layer 61 even after the film 61 in airtight contact with the brims of the wearer 7 has been brought. This advantageously allows the removal of additional air within the carrier 7 , which reduces the amount of residual air in the carrier 7 at the end of the vacuum skin packaging process, minimizes and thus minimizes the risk of air bag formation. Suction of air through holes 70 and either window 105b or suction openings 110 also leads to a very efficient evacuation process, since the hole just created fits perfectly to the shape of the perforation tool and the aspiration can be performed directly or in close proximity to the internal volume of the carrier or tray as needed. The described apparatus also enables the generation of an optimal vacuum state in volume 300 even before the actual formation of the holes 70 , and also air removal from the carrier 7 allows, even after the film layer 61 from the heatable surface 510 the film transfer plate 51b has been solved. This advantageously allows for the efficient performance of the perforating step and reducing the residual amount of air in the package at the end of the vacuum skin packaging process. At the end of the process, the flap members are also brought back into alignment with the respective side wall, whereby the package on the outer surface of the tray or carrier 7 is provided with a desirable uniformity. In addition, the use of a flap which remains an integral part of the tray will not result in any risk of plastic within the package, thereby minimizing the risk of contamination. The perforation unit may also be easily implemented on an existing apparatus, thereby avoiding the need for pre-punched trays.

According to a second variant of the first embodiment, the base unit comprises 53 ' preferably an outer element 530 ' , a fortified base plate 531 ' and an adapter 534 ' with z. B. four leveling feet 533 ' , The attached base plate 531 ' is with a fastened shaft 540 of the third piston 54 connected and has four through holes (not visible in the drawings). The adapter 534 ' Leans on the attached base plate 531 ' . the four leveling feet 533 ' engage in the through holes and on the lower side of the attached base plate 531 ' protrude. In an alternative variant, not shown in the drawings, the adapter 534 ' be configured so that the four leveling feet 533 ' when attached to the attached base plate 531 ' leans, outside the paved base plate 531 ' lie and on the lower side of the attached base plate 531 ' protrude. The attached base plate 531 ' and the adapter 534 ' grab in the opening 20a the slipway 20 one, leaving the top of the adapter 534 ' with the slip plane 20 is aligned. The outer element 530 ' has a base and sidewall defining a central cavity. The base may, as in the previously described embodiment, depending on the position of the actuator (s) 104 have one or more passages, which for receiving Perforationswerkzeuge of perforation units 100 are suitable or not. As for the variant of 5a - 5k is described, each perforation unit has a perforation tool 101 on that between a resting position in which the tool 101 from the side wall of the carrier or tray 7 is spaced, and an operating position in which the tool 101 on the carrier 7 acts and at least one through hole 70 forms in the side wall, can be operated. The or each perforation unit 100 includes in more detail an actuator 104 (which may be a pneumatic piston, a hydraulic piston or an electric actuator or other type of actuator), with the perforation tool 101 connected and offset the perforation tool 101 configured according to a predetermined direction of perforation DP, which is the side wall of the carrier 7 crosses when the latter by base unit 53 ' and plate 51a . 51b is locked in position. Alternatively, a single actuator may be used to move a plurality of perforation units.

Although z. B. 6e 2 shows a horizontally moving perforating tool, it should be noted that each perforating unit may also be configured to vertically displace the perforating tool, as in FIG 5y It should be noted that in this case, the perforation tool can puncture a horizontal heel passing through the side wall of the tray or carrier 7 is formed vertically below the upper brim of the carrier or tray.

When the actuator / actuators 104 outside the outer element 530 ' may be the latter with one or more continuous passes 532 ' be equipped to the perforation tool 101 each perforation unit 100 to absorb slippery. You can z. On the ground (not shown in the figures) of the outer fastened element 530 ' or, as in 6e illustrated, in the thickness of the side wall of the outer element 530 ' correspondingly in an upper zone of the lateral wall of the carrier or tray 7 be positioned. The passages 532 ' in particular, are configured to match the position at the holes 70 must be placed on the side walls of a tablet. Possible configurations of the perforation tool according to aspects of the invention are described in FIGS 8a - 8c . 9a - 9c . 9a ' - 9c ' . 10a - 10d . 11a - 11c . 12a - 12c and 22a - 22d are shown and are not explained in more detail, since a corresponding detailed description has already been provided above with respect to the first variant.

The central cavity of the outer element 530 ' is preferably dimensioned so that the attached base plate 531 ' and the adapter 534 ' can slide into the central cavity. The base of the outer element 530 ' is preferably with a movable cylinder 541 of the third piston 54 connected.

The operation of the apparatus 1 with the base unit 53 ' according to the second variant will now be described in detail. Because the operations involving the base unit 53 ' are not involved, are essentially the same as the corresponding operations that the machine with the base unit 53 according to the first variant, these operations are summarized here only briefly, while no detailed description thereof is repeated.

The heatable surface 510 the foil transfer plates 51a . 51b is first heated to a predefined temperature. The foil cutting assembly 4 then preferably begins with the cutting of the film layers 61 from the unrolled portion of the film 60 as described above (before each cut the backside block 42 pushed upwards until the backside element 422 to the cutter 40 points, the cutting device 40 becomes horizontal against the backside element 422 pushed, creating a film layer 61 is cut, the cutting device 40 is from the backside element 422 moved away and the back block 42 is pulled down until the back plate 421 on the foil carrier plate 51b has). Then the film transfer plate 51b against the back panel 421 pushed, with the film layer 61 placed between them, vacuum is placed between the heatable surface of the film transfer plate 51b and the film layer 61 created so that the film transfer plate 51b the film layer 61 stops, and the foil layer 61 holding foil transfer plate 51a is from the back panel 421 moved away.

In the meantime, products to be packaged become 8th on respective carriers 7 arranged. The carriers 7 with the products arranged on it 8th then be on the slip plane 20 supported, so that the conveyor belt 21 she brings to glide, z. B. gradually along the slip plane 20 in the direction indicated by the arrow A1 of 1 is specified.

One of the carriers 7 with a product (not in 6a to see) as in 6a can be seen, gradually along the sliding plane 20 under the effect of the conveyor belt 21 (in 6a not shown) until it opens 20a reached, in which the base unit 53 engages, and is therefore on the adapter 534 ' arranged.

While the conveyor belt 21 the carrier 7 on the adapter 534 ' brings, the rotating cylinder rotates 50 preferably 180 ° about its X-axis, so that the positions of the film transfer plates 51a . 51b be reversed. The axis of the third piston 52b is therefore now oriented vertically, and the film transfer plate 51b that the film layer 61 holds, is now above the carrier 7 and the product 8th (please refer 6b ). The outer element 530 ' is then in the vertical direction, represented by the arrow A7 of 3 , by the moving cylinder 541 of the fourth piston 54 moves upwards until the outer element 530 ' the brim of the wearer 7 touched, and the leveling feet 533 ' of the adapter 534 ' rest on the base of the outer element 530 ' (please refer 6c ).

The outer element 530 ' is then through the moving cylinder 541 of the fourth piston 54 Continue upwards through the arrow A7 in 3 shown vertical direction moves, causing the adapter 534 ' (and the carrier resting on it 7 ) and lifted from the attached base plate 531 ' is solved. The stroke of the outer element 530 ' ends when the paved base plate 531 ' against the base of the outer element 530 ' rejects (see 6d ).

Then the film layer 61 holding foil transfer plate 51b pushed down until the film layer 61 the opening of the carrier 7 covered (as in 6e can be seen), with the edges of the film layer 61 airtight at the brim of the wearer 7 be attached.

Then, vacuum or a state of low pressure in the volume 300 ' between the inner surface of element 53 ' and the outer surface of the carrier or tray 7 over openings 530a ' . 530b ' generated by suction pump 102 is pressed. Substantially simultaneously or subsequently becomes the perforation unit 100 (or units) activates the perforation tool 101 from the rest position to the operating position, whereby at least one through hole 70 is produced on the carrier side wall, whereby a passage is formed, which is the inside of the carrier or tray 7 in fluid communication with volume 300 ' and thereby with the vacuum pump 102 brings; It should be noted that, when the tip is in the form of a needle, the suction from the inside of the tray or carrier 7 through the needle cavity via suction port 110 and pump 102 he follows; if the tip is not hollow ( 10d and 23 ), the suction takes place from the inside of the tray or carrier 7 through the window 105b the top. Air intake through passages 530a ' and or 530b ' can be initiated, as mentioned, when the perforation tool the side wall of the carrier or tray 7 not yet perforated: This condition creates a pressure difference between the inside of the carrier or tray 7 and the volume 300 ' that between the base unit 53 and the outer surface of the tray or carrier 7 is defined; the pressure difference acts as a contrast pushing the entire carrier against the inner surface of the base unit and against the perforating tool (s), thus supporting the perforation process. The perforating tool progressively perforates the sidewall of the tray or carrier in a second phase to form a flap member, as in Figs 13 - 15 is shown. It should be noted that in the case of a plurality of perforation units, these units may be synchronously controlled to simultaneously cover the sidewall of the carrier or tray 7 to penetrate in respective distinguishable positions. A single actuator 104 can be used to make a variety, eg. B. all, the perforation units 101 to move.

After the perforation tool hole or holes 70 is generated and has reached its operating position, air from the inside of the carrier or tablet 7 using the vacuum pump 102 through the holes just created 70 and the lumens 108 and opening 110 or over windows 105b away.

After re-aerating through the film transfer plate 51b becomes the film transfer plate 51b through the third piston 52b in the direction indicated by the arrow A5 of 3 drawn vertical direction, whereby it from the base unit 53 (please refer 6f ) and the vacuum in the outer element 530 ' is broken.

The outer element 530 ' is then through the moving cylinder 541 of the fourth piston 54 down in the direction indicated by the arrow A7 in 3 shown vertical direction moves, causing the adapter 534 ' (and the carrier resting on it 7 ) lowered and back in contact with the attached base plate 531 ' is brought (see 6g ).

The outer element 530 ' is then further in the vertical direction, represented by the arrow A7 of 3 , by the moving cylinder 541 of the fourth piston 54 moved down until the outer element 530 ' out of the opening 20a the slipway 20 and from the carrier 7 triggers (see 6h ). That way, the wearer can 7 continue along the slipway 20 under the influence of the conveyor belt 21 slide in the horizontal direction, as shown by the arrow A1.

According to this second variant, the two film transfer plates 51a . 51b operated according to the synchronism described above, or the apparatus may alternatively comprise a single transfer plate 51a lock in.

As a further variant of the first embodiment, instead of an endless film of the appropriate width cut into film layers to the predefined length that match the tray opening, precut film layers of suitable dimensions (width and length and shape) may be used. The precut film layers can be stacked and individually through the film transfer plate or plates 51a and 51b and used in the packaging process described above. In such case, a suitable configuration of the packaging assembly 5 (not shown in the drawings) provide that the foil transfer plate or plates 51a . 51b parallel to the base unit 53 are arranged and by respective pistons, the raising and lowering of the film transfer plate or plates 51a . 51b allow as needed to be moved vertically. If the apparatus includes two plates, the pistons may be connected to a cylinder which rotates about a vertical axis so as to drive the pistons with the foil transfer plates 51a . 51b move horizontally. This alternative packaging assembly can perform the following steps: lowering a first film transfer plate (as described above 51a above the stack of precut film layers, applying vacuum through the first film transfer plate 51a through to pick up the top film layer of the stack, lifting the first film transfer plate 51a with the precut film layer adhered thereto, rotating the cylinder at a suitable angle about the first film transfer plate 51a via a base unit 53 to bring and at the same time a second film transfer plate 51b above the stack of precut film layers, and lowering the first film transfer plate 51a to perform a vacuum skin packaging process as described above. The perforation units would be arranged as described above and operate as described above.

Second embodiment of the apparatus 1

According to a further variant of the invention, the apparatus 1 from the in 7 be described type. 7 shows schematically an apparatus 1 with a frame 601 , Material in the form of a plastic sheet (thermoformable film) is taken from the coil 602 passing through the frame 601 or one with the frame 601 associated structure is unwound and transformed into a forming tool 603 emotional. The plastic material is heated in the forming tool and into trays 7 shaped. The shaped trays 7 are loaded manually or automatically with a product and are then transported through a transport assembly 604 to a packaging station 605 transferred where a packaging assembly 606 Carried by the frame, a foil layer 61 (Lid film) tightly attached, which of the film supply roll 607 unrolling: The film layer 61 covers the filled trays 7 , It should be noted that the transport assembly 604 a subsidy and a slip level as for the example of 1 - 4 may include described. At the packing station holds a holder 103 the packaging station 606 the tablet 7 in the correct position. The holder 103 can be a base unit 53 in the 5a - 5i shown type and an upper unit 51 comprising a heating plate. The base unit and the upper unit may be relatively displaceable in a vertical direction to form a horizontal rim of the tray and a portion of the film layer as in FIG 5i can be seen, sandwiched and locked. The packaging assembly holds the tray 7 in position and allows the application of the coil 602 unrolled film layer. At least one perforating unit 100 has a perforation tool 101 on that between a resting position in which the tool 101 from the side wall of the carrier 7 is spaced, and an operating position in which the tool 101 on the carrier 7 acts and at least one through hole 70 in the sidewall, while the tray is held in position in the packaging station. The perforation unit may be different from the one above 5a - 5i be described type and according to its description. The air is evacuated from the tray, z. By means of a lumen provided in each of the perforation tool (s). Then or at the same time the package is sealed. Subordinate to the packaging station, a cutting unit can 608 located, which separates the trays from each other.

Control unit of apparatus 1

The apparatus according to the invention has at least one control unit.

The control unit 120 (in 1 shown schematically) is at least with the transport assembly 2 , the packaging assembly 5 , the perforation unit 100 and the vacuum arrangement 101 connected and is configured so that the transport assembly 2 the displacement of the carrier 7 is commanded along the predefined path, e.g. B. by controlling the engine 22 according to a gradual movement; the control unit also commands the packaging assembly 5 and thus all the actuators described above, the film layer 61 Taut on the carrier 7 to fix when the latter has reached the packing station; the control unit also commands the perforation unit or perforation units 100 , the perforation tool 101 from the rest position to the operating position (and vice versa after the desired vacuum level has been reached), thereby creating at least one through hole 70 is generated on the carrier side wall; Furthermore, the control unit is connected to the vacuum arrangement and controls this (vacuum pump 102 ) to air inside the vehicle 7 below the film layer 61 through the at least one hole 70 to remove. The above actions are performed by the control unit using sensors that are known per se and therefore not further described. Using the position sensors, the control unit 120 For example, determine when the wearer 7 in the base unit 53 the packaging assembly 5 is positioned, and only then the displacement of the perforation tool 101 command from the rest position to the operating position after the wearer 7 in the base unit 53 has been correctly positioned. The control unit may also be configured to determine when the perforation tool 101 has reached the operating position, and thus the command with the vacuum arrangement 102 is synchronized to air inside the vehicle 7 according to the sequence described above for the various alternative embodiments. As explained in the above description, the vacuum pump becomes 102 preferably also activated before the perforation units have actually penetrated the support wall.

The control unit may include a digital processor (CPU) having memory (or memories), an analog circuit, or a combination of one or more digital processing units with one or more analog processing circuitry. In the present description and in the claims, it is stated that the control unit is "configured" or "programmed" to carry out certain steps: this can be achieved in practice by any means that allows configuration or programming of the control unit. In the case of a control unit comprising one or more CPUs, for example, one or more programs are stored in a suitable memory: the program or programs contain instructions which, when executed by the control unit, cause the control unit to perform the described steps and / or Related to the control unit claimed steps. Alternatively, when the control unit is of the analog type, the circuit of the control unit is designed to include circuitry (s) that in operation process electrical signals so as to carry out the steps of the control unit disclosed herein.

The vacuumskin packaging

The apparatuses and methods described above may be suitable for making a vacuum skin package that accommodates at least one product as described in this section and claimed in any of the appended claims related to vacuum skin packaging. An example of this type of packaging is in 20 shown. This package may be obtained by using any of the trays or carriers of the type described above, for example the trays disclosed in U.S. Pat 13 to 20 you can see.

The innovative vacuum skin packaging 700 includes a tray 701 that has a bottom wall 702 , which may be of round, oval or polygonal, possibly rectangular, shape, and a side wall 703 having upwardly extending from the bottom wall and an upper brim 704 which is directed outwards and as a support for a sealing film 705 serves. The side wall has at least one cutout 70 which fundamentally defines a passage or a hole in the side wall of the tray, with a correspondingly associated flap element 70a connected to the tray sidewall: before applying the foil 705 is the flap element 70a in particular positionable in at least one open position, wherein the flap element is inclined with respect to the tray wall (see dashed line in FIG 20 ) and a hole 70 in the sidewall (either in horizontal or vertical or inclined portions of the sidewall) to allow passage of fluid therethrough. The flap member may also be positioned in the closed position in which the flap member is aligned with the tray sidewall and substantially closes the hole. One or more products 706 are loaded on the tray, and the slide 705 is draped over the product (s) and attached to the top brim 704 and welded to the inner surface portion of the tray. A section of the foil stops, as in 20 you can see the flap element 70a in the closed position and closes the at least one hole in the side wall tight; in the closed position is the flap element 70a perfectly flush with respect to the outer surface of the sidewall, whereby the aesthetic appearance of the packaging is improved. In the example of 20 is the flap element 70a integrated into the side wall and through an open cutting line 70b demarcated, for example, using the perforation unit described above 100 of the apparatus 1 is obtained; the flap element 70a is over a hinge line 70c (Shown in the figures as a dashed line) extending between ends of the cutting line connected to the side wall: In practice, the flap element 70a a cutout section of the sidewall 703 , with the sidewall over the hinge line 70c which hinge line defines a bend line about which the flap element can rotate and move between the open and closed positions. The open cutting line 70b typically assumes a regular shape, such as that of a traverse or arc, e.g. A circular arc or elliptical arc, or a combination of segments and arcs. For the flap member to function optimally, the flap member should meet certain geometric requirements: the hinge line length 'l' is not greater than the maximum width 'w' of the flap member, measured parallel to the hinge line (see, for example 21a and 21b showing enlarged views of areas of the sidewall that are touched by the flap member). In the 21b . 21c . 21d 'l' and 'w' are fundamentally of the same length. In any case, hinge line 'l', which is always shorter or equal to 'w', can not be too small, compared to 'w': 'l' should, for example, not be smaller than 0.2 (1/5) of 'w' be. The height 'h' of the flap element - measured perpendicular to the hinge line (see again figures, e.g. 21a and 21b ) is also preferably greater than 0.2 (1/5), optionally greater than 0.5 (1/2), of length '1', but preferably less than 3 times '1'. The above relative proportions can avoid excessive and uncontrolled wobble of the flap member while ensuring the ability of the flap member to return to a closed position.

The side wall ends, as mentioned, upwards in an outwardly projecting horizontal brim 704 , wherein the film layer 61 at the top of the horizontal brim and at least a portion of the inner surface of the sidewall (see again 20 ), so as to stably hold the flap member in the closed position and perfectly seal around the holes 70 to guarantee.

Further, according to another aspect, the hole (s) are / are correspondingly located in a corner (s) of the sidewall when the latter has a polygonal base. The side wall 703 can have one or more horizontal paragraphs 707 include, which are preferably present in the upper half of the side wall portion: in this case, each horizontal paragraph 707 be arranged accordingly in one of the respective corners. In the examples of 16 - 19b Everyone has horizontal heels 707 essentially the shape of a right triangle, as seen from a plan view; In addition, the sidewall has vertical and mutually perpendicular facets emanating from converging orthogonal edges of each of the horizontal paragraphs, thus forming a region 3 to define mutually converging vertical surfaces which are located in the corner regions, in which one or more of the holes and corresponding flap elements may be arranged appropriately. In particular, each hole may be correspondingly disposed in a respective corner in the form of an opening through the sidewall portion defining the horizontal shoulder or one of the vertical facets.

On an inner edge of each horizontal shoulder, ie on the side of the horizontal shoulder facing the inside of the tray, the tray side panel may also have a protective projection in one embodiment 709 such as a substantially upwardly directed brim; like for example 19b is apparent, every horizontal paragraph is 707 positioned vertically at a lower height compared to the outwardly projecting horizontal brim 704 (which is the upper rim of the tray) and extends horizontally between the projection 709 and another sidewall portion extending from the horizontal shoulder. and ends at the horizontal brim. In this way, the horizontal shoulders can be positioned in a relatively low area of the sidewall, while the heels are kept free of contamination from the product thanks to the protective projection. It should be noted that the aspect described immediately above, the protective edge 709 and the corresponding horizontal paragraph 707 regardless of the shape of the horizontal paragraph may be present (in top view) and also in cases where the corner does not form three facets, as described above, and / or no triangular paragraph 707 Are defined.

As in the 17a . 17b . 18a . 18b . 19a . 19b shown can be the horizontal paragraphs 707 further vertically positioned at either the same height or closer to the tray bottom as compared to the position of further horizontal features 708 (which are also preferably located in corner regions) which serve as supports during stacking of the trays (also referred to as destacking features).

While the invention has been described in conjunction with what is presently considered to be the most practicable and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments but, on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements recited in U.S. Pat the spirit and scope of the appended claims are included.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• FR 1258357 [0002]
• FR 1286018 [0002]
• AU 3491504 [0002]
• US 30009 [0002]
• US 3574642 [0002]
• US 3681092 [0002]
• US 3713849 [0002]
• US 4055672 [0002]
• US 5346735 [0002]
• US 2007/0022717 [0004]
• US 2005/0257501 [0005]
• US 3,481,101 [0006, 0009, 0009]
• EP 320294 [0007]
• EP 0320294 [0009, 0009]
• US 4919955 [0010, 0010]
• WO 9714313 [0010]
• US 2005074531 [0010, 0010]

Claims (44)

Packaging ( 700 ), which is a tray ( 701 ) comprising a bottom wall ( 702 ) and a side wall ( 703 ) extending from the bottom wall ( 702 ) extends upward, wherein the side wall ( 703 ) upward in an outwardly projecting horizontal brim ( 704 ) ends, the side wall ( 703 ) one or more horizontal paragraphs ( 707 ) located in the upper half of the area of the side wall ( 703 ), and the side wall ( 703 ) has a protective projection located on the inner edge of each horizontal shoulder ( 707 ), each horizontal paragraph ( 707 ) is positioned vertically at a lower height compared to the outwardly projecting horizontal brim (FIG. 704 ), and extends between the projection and another side wall portion extending from the horizontal shoulder (FIG. 707 ) and at the horizontal brim ( 704 ) ends. Packaging according to claim 1, in which each horizontal shoulder ( 707 ) is positioned at a lower height compared to an upper portion of the protective projection. A package according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the bottom wall is of polygonal shape and the side wall has a number of comers, and wherein each of the horizontal heels ( 707 ) is arranged correspondingly in one of the corners. Packaging according to one of the preceding claims, in which each of the horizontal paragraphs ( 707 ) has substantially the shape of a right triangle, and wherein vertical and mutually perpendicular facets exit from converging orthogonal edges of each of the horizontal steps. Packaging according to one of the preceding claims, in which the side wall has at least one hole ( 70 ) in the side wall ( 703 ) and one with the tray side wall ( 703 ) connected flap element ( 70a ), wherein the flap element ( 70a ) according to the hole ( 70 ) is positioned. Packaging according to Claim 5, in which the flap element ( 70a ) is configured so that it is at least partially open between an open position in which the corresponding hole is left open, and a closed position in which the flap is aligned with the tray side wall and the hole (Fig. 70 ) is substantially movable, with 'configured to be able to move', meaning that the flap member is capable of movement between the open and closed positions per se, unless the flap member is replaced by a flap is prevented to the tray bound plastic film. Packaging according to Claim 6, in which the flap element ( 70a ) in the side wall ( 703 ) is integrated and by an open cutting line ( 70b ) is delimited, wherein the flap element ( 70a ) with the side wall ( 703 ) via a hinge line ( 70c ) connected between ends of the cutting line ( 70b ), wherein the flap member is configured to move between the open and closed positions by pivoting about the hinge line. Packaging according to Claim 7, in which the hinge line ( 70c ) has a length (l) not greater than a maximum width (w) of the flap element, measured parallel to the hinge line ( 70c ), wherein the hinge line length (l) is greater than 0.2 (1/5) of the maximum width (w). A package according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the height (h) of the flap element - measured perpendicular to the hinge line - is one or more of the following: greater than 0.2 of the length (l) of the hinge line, greater than 0.5 of the length (l) of the hinge line, less than 3 times the length (l) of the hinge line. A package according to any one of the preceding claims 5 to 9, wherein the bottom wall is of polygonal shape and the side walls have a number of corners, and each of the horizontal shoulders ( 707 ) is arranged correspondingly in one of the corners, wherein each of the holes has the shape of an opening through the side wall portion defining the horizontal shoulder. Packaging according to one of the preceding claims 5 to 10, further comprising: a product ( 706 ) placed on the tray ( 701 ), a plastic film draped over the product ( 705 ) against at least a portion of an inner surface of the tablet ( 701 ), which section is not in contact with the product. Packaging according to claim 11, wherein at least a portion of the film ( 705 ) adheres to the flap element and the flap element ( 70a ) in fixed closed position relative to the side wall ( 703 ), whereby the flap element ( 70a ) in the fastened closed position, the dimensions of the hole ( 70 ) and flush with respect to an area of the sidewall ( 703 ), wherein the film has the at least one hole ( 70 ) tightly closes. Packaging according to claim 11 or 12, in which the film ( 705 ) is also welded to the top of the horizontal brim. A package according to claim 11 or 12 or 13, wherein the film comprises a skin in contact with the product and the portion of an inner surface of the tray ( 701 ), which section is not in contact with the product. Packaging comprising: a tray ( 701 ), which has a bottom wall ( 702 ) and a side wall ( 703 ) extending from the bottom wall ( 702 ), wherein the side wall has at least one hole ( 70 ) in the side wall ( 703 ), a flap element ( 70a ) with the tray side panel ( 703 ), wherein the flap element ( 70a ) according to the hole ( 70 ), wherein the flap element ( 70a ) is configured to move from an open position leaving the hole at least partially open to a closed position where the flap member is in contact with the tray sidewall (Fig. 703 ) and the hole ( 70 ) substantially closes, can be moved. A package according to claim 15, wherein, when configured to be movable, it is meant that the flap member is capable of movement between the open and closed positions per se, unless the flap member is prevented by a plastic film which is tied to the tray. Packaging according to Claim 16, in which the flap element ( 70a ) in the side wall ( 703 ) is integrated and by an open cutting line ( 70b ) is delimited, wherein the flap element ( 70a ) with the side wall ( 703 ) via a hinge line ( 70c ) connected between ends of the cutting line ( 70b ), wherein the flap member is configured to be moved between open and closed positions by pivoting about the hinge line. Packaging according to Claim 17, in which the hinge line ( 70c ) has a length (l) not greater than the maximum width (w) of the flap element, measured parallel to the hinge line ( 70c ). Packaging according to Claim 18, in which the hinge line ( 70c ) has a length (l) greater than 0.2 (1/5) of the maximum width (w). A package according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the height (h) of the flap element - measured perpendicular to the hinge line - is one or more of the following: greater than 0.2 of the length (l) of the hinge line, greater than 0.5 of the length (l) of the hinge line, less than 3 times the length (l) of the hinge line. A package according to any one of the preceding claims 15 to 20, wherein the flap member is secured to an upper portion of the side wall of the carrier (10). 7 ) is attached. Packaging according to one of the preceding claims 15 to 21, wherein the tray bottom wall ( 702 ) is of polygonal shape, the side wall has a number of corners, and wherein the hole or holes ( 70 ) corresponding in the corner / corners of the side wall ( 703 ) is / are arranged. Packaging according to Claim 22, in which the side wall ( 703 ) one or more horizontal paragraphs ( 707 ) in the upper half of the area of the side wall ( 703 ), each of the horizontal paragraphs ( 707 ) is arranged correspondingly in one of the corners. A package according to claim 23, wherein each of the horizontal paragraphs ( 707 ) has substantially the shape of a right triangle, and wherein vertical and mutually perpendicular facets exit from converging orthogonal edges of each of the horizontal steps. Packaging according to claim 23 or 24, wherein each hole ( 70 ) is correspondingly formed in a respective corner and has the shape of an opening through the side wall portion defining the horizontal shoulder. Packaging according to claim 24 or 25, wherein each hole ( 70 ) is correspondingly formed in a respective corner and has the shape of an opening through the side wall portion defining one of the vertical facets. Packaging according to one of the preceding claims 23 to 26, wherein the side wall ( 703 ) upward in an outwardly projecting horizontal brim ( 704 ) ends, the side wall ( 703 ) the one or more horizontal paragraphs ( 707 ) in the upper half of the area of the side wall ( 703 ), and wherein the side wall ( 703 ) - on an inner edge of each horizontal shoulder ( 707 ) - has a protective projection, each horizontal step ( 707 ) is positioned vertically at a lower height compared to the outwardly projecting horizontal brim ( 704 ), and extends between the projection and another side wall portion extending from the horizontal shoulder (FIG. 707 ) and at the horizontal brim ( 704 ) ends. Packaging according to one of the preceding claims 15 to 27, further comprising: a product ( 706 ) placed on the tray ( 701 ) is loaded, a plastic film draped over the product ( 705 ) against at least a portion of an inner surface of the tablet ( 701 ), which section is not in contact with the product. A package according to claim 28, wherein at least a portion of the film ( 705 ) adheres to the flap element and the flap element ( 70a ) fastened in closed position relative to the side wall ( 703 ), wherein the flap element ( 70a ) the dimensions of the hole ( 70 ) and flush with respect to an area of the sidewall ( 703 ), wherein the film has the at least one hole ( 70 ) tightly closes. Packaging according to Claim 28 or 29, in which the film ( 705 ) is also welded to the top of the horizontal brim. A package according to claim 28 or 29 or 30, wherein the film has a skin in contact with the product and the portion of an inner surface of the tray ( 701 ), which section is not in contact with the product. Vacuum skin packaging ( 700 ), comprising: a tray ( 701 ), which has a bottom wall ( 702 ) and a side wall ( 703 ) extending from the bottom wall ( 702 ), wherein the side wall has at least one hole ( 70 ) in the side wall ( 703 ), a flap element ( 70a ) with the tray side panel ( 703 ), wherein the flap element ( 70a ) according to the hole ( 70 ), a product ( 706 ) placed on the tray ( 701 ), a film ( 705 ) draped over the product and attached to an inner surface of the tray ( 701 ) is welded, wherein at least a portion of the film ( 705 ) the flap element ( 70a ) in a fixed position relative to the side wall ( 703 ) and the at least one hole ( 70 ) tightly closes. A vacuum skin package according to claim 32, wherein the flap element ( 70a ) with the tray side wall ( 703 ) and the hole ( 70 ) substantially closes, wherein the film ( 705 ) on the flap element ( 70a ) adhering to the dimensions of the hole ( 70 ) and with respect to an area of the side wall ( 703 ) remains flush. A vacuum skin package according to claim 32 or 33, wherein the flap element ( 70a ) in the side wall ( 703 ) is integrated and is delimited by an open cutting line, wherein the flap element ( 70a ) by a hinge line ( 70c ) extending between ends of the cutting line ( 70b ), with the side wall ( 703 ) connected is. A vacuum skin package according to claim 34, wherein the hinge line ( 70c ) has a length (l) not greater than the maximum width (w) of the flap element, measured parallel to the hinge line ( 70c ). A vacuum skin package according to claim 35, wherein the hinge line ( 70c ) has a length (l) greater than 0.2 (1/5) of the maximum width (w), the height (h) of the flap element - measured perpendicular to the hinge line - greater than 0.2, optionally greater than 0.5, is the length (1) of the hinge line but less than 3 times the length of the same hinge line. A vacuum skin package according to any one of the preceding claims 32 to 36, wherein the flap member is secured to an upper portion of the side wall of the carrier (10). 7 ) is attached. Vacuum skin package according to one of the preceding claims 32 to 37, in which the side wall of the carrier ( 7 ) upward in an outwardly projecting horizontal brim ( 704 ), the film ( 705 ) is also welded to the top of the horizontal brim. A vacuum skin package according to any of the preceding claims 32 to 38, wherein the tray bottom wall (10 702 ) of polygonal, optionally rectangular shape, and wherein the hole or holes ( 70 ) corresponding in the corner / corners of the side wall ( 703 ) is / are arranged. A vacuum skin package according to claim 39, wherein the sidewall ( 703 ) one or more horizontal paragraphs ( 707 ) in the upper half of the area of the side wall ( 703 ), each of the horizontal paragraphs ( 707 ) is arranged correspondingly in one of the corners. A vacuum skin package according to claim 40, wherein each of the horizontal paragraphs ( 707 ) has substantially the shape of a right triangle, and wherein vertical and mutually perpendicular facets exit from converging orthogonal edges of each of the horizontal steps. A vacuum skin package according to any one of the preceding claims 39 to 41, wherein each hole ( 70 ) is formed correspondingly in a respective corner. A vacuum skin package according to claim 41 or 42, wherein each hole is correspondingly disposed in a respective corner in the form of an opening through the side wall portion defining the horizontal shoulder or one of the vertical facets. Vacuum skin package according to one of the preceding claims 32 to 43, wherein the side wall ( 703 ) upwards in an outward direction projecting horizontal brim ( 704 ) ends, the side wall ( 703 ) one or more horizontal paragraphs ( 707 ), which in the upper half of the area of the side wall ( 703 ) are present, and wherein the side wall ( 703 ) - on an inner edge of each horizontal shoulder ( 707 ) - has a protective projection, each horizontal step ( 707 ) is positioned vertically at a lower height compared to the outwardly projecting horizontal brim (FIG. 704 ), and extends between the projection and another side wall portion extending from the horizontal shoulder (FIG. 707 ) and at the horizontal brim ( 704 ) ends.

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