EP3724083A2

EP3724083A2 - Tool system for a packaging device, and method and shaping unit for shaping shaped articles made of film

Info

Publication number: EP3724083A2
Application number: EP18827011.0A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Michael Sdahl
Original assignee: Stampac GmbH
Current assignee: Stampac GmbH
Priority date: 2017-12-14
Filing date: 2018-12-14
Publication date: 2020-10-21
Anticipated expiration: 2038-12-14
Also published as: WO2019115766A2; EP3724083B1; PL3724083T3; US20210002012A1; WO2019115766A3

Abstract

The invention relates to a tool system for use in a packaging device (10; 110; 210; 310) for packaging food products, particularly hollow chocolate articles, with film packaging, wherein said packaging device comprises a plurality of processing units for processing the film packaging, having at least three tool parts, specifically a tool middle part as well as a tool bottom part (70, 170) and a tool top part (64; 164), which can interact during operation such that processing may take place. The function of the tool middle part is to receive at least one film semi-finished product (FH) of the film packaging being processed and convey it between individual processing units of said packaging device (10; 110; 210; 310), wherein the tool middle part is capable of interacting with at least one further tool part (64, 164; 70, 170) of the tool system respectively, and each of said further tool parts (64, 164; 70, 170) is a tool part (64, 164; 70, 170) of one of the processing units serving to process the film semi-finished product (FH) from reception thereof on the tool middle part to completion thereof as film packaging. The tool middle part has at least one interface which allows it to be compatible with at least one tool part (64, 164; 70, 170) of each of said processing units.

Description

Tooling system for a packaging machine and method and mold unit for molding

Foil moldings

The invention relates to a tool system for use in a packaging device for Verpa ckung of food products, in particular chocolate hollow bodies, by means of a Folienverpa ckung, and a corresponding packaging device. Furthermore, the invention relates to a Ver drive and a molding unit for molding foil moldings of a film packaging of food products, in particular chocolate hollow bodies, by means of a molding unit having a support surface for a film to be deformed, at least one stamp with a shaping outer contour, and at least one die comprising an inner recess.

Packaging devices generally have several processing units for processing the packaging Ver. For example, WO 2017/144664 A1 describes a method and an apparatus for packaging a chocolate hollow figure with a plurality of processing units.

At the beginning of the processing path, the machine has a film supply unit in which a film coil is rotatably suspended and can be discontinuously driven by a controlled drive to assist in the removal of a film strip from the film coil. As the next processing unit a precutting station is described, in which the film strip is cut by a controlled raising and lowering precutting knives per stroke in four pieces of film.

The pieces of film are then moved by means of a horizontally in the direction of processing path back and forth movable transfer carriage with vacuum film grippers under a stamp device, which is provided in the direction of the processing path of Vorschneidestation downstream as the next processing unit. In the stamping device, the film pieces are formed to Foli enhalbschalen, fixed and cut in a further machining operation. In this way he hold the film half shells next to their half-shell-shaped body connected thereto an annular film flange.

By means of a 3D suction mold, which is suspended on a movable carriage device, each of the film shells is taken out of the forming die of the stamping device, moved to a War tevorrichtung and stored on this. The waiting device is arranged in the direction of the processing path of the stamp device directly followed and has the number of film halves corresponding film half-shell recordings.

Furthermore, the packaging device described in the publication WO 2017/144664 A1 ei ne food processing unit comprising a timing table, are arranged on the film holding devices. In addition, the food processing unit comprises an equipping device, a flap unit and a joining device. The clock table rotates discontinuously in operation in the clockwise direction and has several pairs of two of each of the foldable film holding devices. To equip the clock table, a gripping device is provided, which can take the molded film half-shells from the waiting device by means of convex 3D molded suction and in a specific fishing position of the clock table (starting position) is able to store in the film holding devices. By rotating the clock table by a quarter turn, these film half-shells are then brought into a loading position in which the placement device populates one of the half-shells with a food product. In a downstream folding position of the clock table is then by means of a swivel arm of the flap unit, the holding device, which carries the blank half sheet folded, so after this folding operation by the flap unit, the flanges of the two Fo lienhalbschalen flush and aligned rest on each other. And then after turning the table to turn a quarter turn in the joining position, the film flanges are joined together by means of Fügeein.

In the initial position of the clock table, the joined film half shells are finally taken by convex grippers, so that they can be transported to the product removal device and a new assignment of the film holding devices with shaped film half shells takes place.

The described packaging device has proven to be a well-functioning solution in practice. However, a disadvantage of this solution is the fact that between the individual machining processing units Vorschneidestation, punching device and clock table again and again Transportvorrichtun conditions or conveyor units are provided, which allows transport between the processing units. This significantly increases the complexity of the entire system. This also adds to the cost of the packaging device.

Furthermore, in each of these transport operations by improper uptake or unscrupulous depositing the film intermediates (also referred to as semi-finished film) at the individual processing units processing impaired process stability and the Committee can be increased. Finally, the described packaging method of WO 2017/144664 A1 is a discontinuous method that is disadvantageous in terms of cycle time and efficiency. In addition, the longevity of a machine in a discontinuous operation compared to a continuous loading operation is significantly shortened, since the deceleration and acceleration brings increased wear with it.

The document DE 10 2015 220 738 A1 also describes the structure of a pre-cutting unit for the separation and providing of parts of a food packaging film tape, while the document EP 2 765 081 A1 describes a processing unit, the molding, cutting and joining conditions of two film half-shells to a stocked Overall packaging in a processing unit be writes. The patent DE 10 2015 101 417 B4 treated in turn a specific folding and Bör del process for reliable joining of two film half-shells to a total film packaging, while the NL 279067 A discloses a device for folding and joining two films half-shells. In general, the forming of thin films (with or without coating), for example, Alumi nium, paper or plastic with a thickness of, for example, 8mih to about 40 mih no deep drawing process, as it is known for example from sheet metal forming in the automotive industry. Instead, it is a folding process in which the film is pressed by a punch into a die. At the same time it is folded and thus forms its final form. Consequently, only slight flow processes up to about 10% take place, but no flow processes, as are known, for example, from sheet metal forming.

From the prior art, in particular the document DE 24 20 680 A1, a method for making Her cup-shaped containers of thin metal strip is known in which by means of a device corresponding to a container with a bottom of the sidewall to the container edge increasing resistance moment generated becomes. This is achieved by providing an upwardly increasing folding embossment in the region of the side walls of the loading container.

The molding process and the cutting operation are effected with the same device, which in addition to a die on the lower tool part and a punch on the upper tool part also has a cutting blade on the upper tool part and an elastically mounted cutting ring on the lower tool part. First, in a single stroke, the desired piece of film is cut out of the metal strip and then formed. The stamp is multi-level with a Patrizenvorlaufstempel and a compression ring ausgebil det. The Matrizenhohlform, in which the plunger dips to deform the metal strip is also provided with a stepped recess. In this, a first conical recess area, which corresponds with its inner contour of the outer contour of the Patrizenvorlaufstempels, with a step in egg nen second annular recessed area over, which corresponds with its inner contour of the outer contour of the compression ring.

WO2017 / 144664 A1 also describes a stamping device with two juxtaposed molding units and trimming units for trimming the molded film half-shells. In this solution, as well as in DE 24 20 680 A1, in a single stroke geschnit th and reshaped, but in reverse order. For this purpose, the punch is mounted elastically on the upper tool, while the cutting device is rigidly connected thereto.

Furthermore, EP 2 765 081 A1 describes an apparatus and a method for producing a film packaging for food products.

During the forming process, such high forces can occur between the molds that the film to be formed can break. To prevent this from happening, sufficiently thick foils are selected in practice in order to minimize waste in production. As a consequence, the material costs increase. In addition, higher forming forces are required for forming thicker films, which can have a negative effect on the service life of the machines ne. Furthermore, the machines must be purely have a higher stability in order to apply higher forces, which also drives the Maschi nenkosten in the air.

From DE 10 2007 030 008 A1 a forming station for producing nursing pads is known, which has a molding tool, which cooperates for forming the molded body of a material web with a conveying device for the material web, wherein the mold at least during a required for molding of the molded article Contact time with the material web is moved.

DE 10 2008 034 996 A1 describes a device for thermoforming and press hardening of a steel half-stuff with a die and a punch with a shaping section, which are movable against each other. The punch is mounted on the press ram and movable relative to the same press ram and the die is mounted on the press table.

A drawing press for drawing packaging containers of thin sheets or plastic films is described in DE 19 59 573 A.

From CH 691 445 A5 a method for producing cold-formed moldings with at least one recess, made of a metal-plastic composite is known, wherein the composite between a hold-down and a die is held and the die has at least one die opening and in the die openings of the die are driven a punch and thereby the composite is deformed to the mold package with one or more recesses.

It is an object of the present invention to further develop known prior art solutions, in particular to provide a packaging apparatus as well as a method and mold unit for forming lower-profile film moldings.

Accordingly, the present invention proposes a tool system having the features of claim 1 and a packaging device having the features of claim 9.

The tool system according to the invention according to claim 1 is intended for use in a Verpackungsvor direction for packaging food products, in particular chocolate hollow bodies, by means of a foil packaging. The packaging device comprises, as in WO 2017/144664 A1, several processing stations, of which in particular some processing stations are provided for processing the film packaging. The latter are thus such Bearbeitungssein units that directly on the film packaging or their intermediates (semi-finished film) to grab, that is processing units for cutting, molding and joining the film semi-finished products.

The tool system according to the invention comprises at least three tool parts, namely a middle tool part and a lower tool part and a tool upper part, which are able to work together working in operation. The Werkzeugmitteilteil serves to accommodate and promote at least a semi-finished foil to be processed, the film packaging between the individual Bearbeitungssein units of the packaging device. Furthermore, the invention provides that the Werkzeugmit telteil with at least one other tool part (ie the tool base or the work convincing upper part) of the tool system is able to cooperate, wherein the other tool part is a tool part of the machining units, the processing of the semi-finished film from the recording on serve the tool middle part until its completion as a foil packaging. For this purpose, the middle part of the tool has at least one interface, by means of which it is compatible with at least one tool part of each of these machining units.

The advantage of the invention according to claim 1 is thus that the lower tool part and the upper tool part are each assigned to a processing unit, for example, form tool parts of a cutting unit, a joining unit or a mold unit, while the middle part of the tool passes through all the se processing units with a recorded semi-finished film and thus a Implementing the semi-finished film between the individual processing units with additional Transportvorrich lines, as is known from the prior art, unnecessary.

Due to the fact that the middle part of the tool is compatible with at least one tool part of each of these machining units, it can pass through all these processing units for processing the semi-finished film from the receptacle on the middle part of the tool until the completion of the film wrapping, without the need for additional transfer. At the same time, the middle part of the tool itself radio tion carrier be and with one of the tool parts for processing the film semi-finished zusammenwir ken.

Each processing unit of the packaging device, which serves for the purposes of the present invention for loading processing of the film packaging, thus represents an inventive tool system according to the invention, with at least one lower tool part and a tool shell, which are assigned to the processing unit, as well as a tool middle part, which is used for processing the recorded Semifinished product can be spent in the processing unit and subsequently promoted out of this addition.

In the context of the present invention, the term film packaging is used throughout. The film can be made of plastic materials, such as PVC, metallic Materia materials, such as aluminum, or composites. The film must also be in the initial state, i. at room temperature, not be flexible, but may have a certain rigidity, and be heated continuously or once for better processing.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the middle part of the tool can be driven by means of a conveyor unit, wherein the tool center part may in particular comprise a film carrier, which we least one semifinished product is assigned. It may be particularly advantageous if the conveyor unit is formed at least in sections thereof as a continuously operating conveyor unit.

By driving the middle part of the tool by means of a continuous conveyor unit, a continu ous operation of a corresponding packaging device, the processing units are formed as tooling systems according to the invention can be provided. Flierdurch a verbes serte cycle time is achieved, which in addition to the advantage of a smaller committee in particular a höhe ren output possible.

An additional or alternative embodiment of the invention may consist in that the För dereinheit is formed at least in sections thereof as a discontinuous conveyor unit. In this way, in particular the molding of the semi-finished film can be simplified, since the moving relative to each other tool parts during forming need not be moved, whereas gene less critical loading of the film carrier can be done during a transport process.

If in this case the conveyor unit has a linear drive device for the tool middle part, so a particularly dynamic movement of the film carrier is possible and there is a very high flexibility Flexi with respect to the operation of the conveyor unit.

Furthermore, it can be provided that at least one tool part of the tool system, in particular the lower tool part and / or the upper tool part, is mounted floating in at least one direction transversely to the machining direction. In particular, the at least one tool part of the tooling system can also be mounted floating in a plane transversely, for example vertically, to the machining direction.

Due to the multi-part tool system, it is necessary to perform the tool parts for a clean and safe processing very accurately together in the individual processing units. To compensate for a slight misalignment of the tool parts to each other, a floating position tion can be provided at one or more of the tool parts of the tool system. In particular, it may be provided, for example, that the tool middle part represents the leading system, i. the reference, and that the lower tool part and the upper tool part are aligned with the middle part of the tool. In this embodiment, the floating bearing may be provided on the lower tool part and / or the upper tool part.

This can be achieved, for example, with the aid of an adapter plate which is connected to the tool lower part or the upper tool part such that it permits a relative movement transversely to the machining direction of the tool. The machining direction designates the direction in which the tool parts, ie in particular the cooperating tool parts of the tool system are moved in a processing step to allow processing of the film semi-finished product. In the case of a forming unit or a cutting unit, this may in particular be a lifting movement. In order to facilitate a merging of the tool parts of the tool system during a machining step, it may further be provided that at least one tool part, in particular the tool lower part and / or the tool upper part, has joining margins, or have. Furthermore, it can be provided that, alternatively or in addition to the joining bevels, guide aids, for example in the form of a projecting structure on one of the tool parts, which is able to dive into a corresponding receiving structure on another of the tool parts, are provided in order to ensure a reliable alignment of the Ensure tool parts during a machining step.

According to one embodiment of the invention can be provided that the lower tool part and / or the upper tool part of a processing unit are at least partially movable along the conveying direction of the tool center part back and forth. This measure is also used in particular to enable egg nen continuous operation of such a packaging device, which uses processing units as tooling tool systems according to the invention. Thus, the processing steps for men, cutting and joining usually take place within a certain time window within which a relative movement between the middle part of the tool and the lower and upper parts of the tool would be disadvantageous. Thus, at least for the duration of the respective processing step, the tool middle part must be stationary relative to the tool lower part and upper tool part of the processing unit.

In the prior art, a discontinuous operation is proposed in which, for example, the clock table (WO 2017/144664 A1) is stationary during the respective processing step. As a result, the standstill of the clock table is also after the longest processing time which causes an additional loss of time.

According to the embodiment of the invention can be achieved by the mobility of the tool parts of a machining processing unit along the conveying direction of the Werkzeugmitteilteils (at least over a predetermined length) continuous operation without unwanted downtime.

The drive of the tool middle part can run, for example, at a speed of 20 m / min up to 30 m / min. Of course, however, devices are conceivable in which the drive to a higher speed than 30m / min or at a lower speed than 20m / min running.

Depending on the processing time in a processing unit can be measured at the speed with which the drive of the tool center part, the zurücklegbare distance length for each mitzubewegende tool part of the machining unit, ie the lower tool part and / or the upper tool. The reclamation of the moving in the conveying direction of the tool center part with this or sen during the machining process moving tool part (s) of the processing unit can be done by means of a separate drive or for example via a restoring device, the in particular uses an elastic mechanism for recycling. Conceivable for this are beispielswei se coil springs or the like.

As already mentioned above, the invention also relates to a packaging device for packaging food products, in particular chocolate hollow bodies, by means of a film package comprising at least two film moldings, according to the features of claim 9.

In this case, the packaging device has a number of processing units for processing the Fo lienhalbzeuge the film packaging, which are constructed as tool systems according to the features of claim 1. An, namely: a cutting unit for cutting the semi-finished film, a mold unit for forming the film semi-finished products and a closing unit for connecting the Folienhalb witness to a closed housing for the recorded food product. In addition, the packaging device comprises a conveyor unit for conveying the to be processed Folienhalb witnesses the film packaging between the individual processing units of Verpackungsvorrich device. According to the invention, the conveyor unit has a number of driven film carriers for receiving the semifinished products to be processed foil packaging, wherein each film carrier has at least one interface by means of which it is compatible with at least one tool part of each of the processing units, the processing of the semi-finished film from the Recording on the film carrier to serve until its completion as a foil packaging.

As already described in connection with the tool system according to the invention, the processing units which serve directly for processing the film semi-finished products of the film package are all constructed as a tool system according to claim 1, so that the film carriers of the conveyor unit corresponding to the tool center part of the tool system with each of the processing units is compatible.

If further processing units are provided, which do not serve the immediate processing of Foli semis, for example, a loading unit for selectively loading the molded films moldings or flap unit for selectively folding the unassembled foil moldings on each one populated foil mold part, the film carrier so far compatible with this Bearbeitungsseinhei be that the film carrier can pass through these processing units and the aufgenom mene foil semi-finished can be processed accordingly.

Thus, for example, be provided that each two adjacent film carrier are connected to each other via a folding mechanism, and the one film carrier, each of which carries a blank Foli enformteil is folded in a flap unit to fold this unpopulated film molding on the pieced sheet molding, and is folded back in the aftermath. It can also be provided that each second film carrier is provided with a whatsoever kind of marking that indicates that this film carrier should be equipped or not equipped. In this way, especially A robot-supported assembly, for example, with the help of a delta robot, can be meaningfully supported.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the conveyor unit is designed as a continuous conveyor unit and in particular a circulating conveyor belt, a rotating conveyor chain or a rotating För derplatte comprises. As a result, a continuous promotion of the film carrier between the machining areas is achieved. Generally speaking, the conveyor unit thus has a circulating Trägys system for the film carrier and thus the semi-finished products received therein. The film carrier Kings nen be attached in various ways to the associated continuously rotating support system. For example, it is conceivable to attach in pairs connected via a folding mechanism film carriers only those film carrier, which is populated in the loading unit with a Lebensmit telprodukt and thus is not folded by the flap unit.

The carrier system can furthermore be made of a wide variety of materials. Thus, it is conceivable for example to provide a conveyor belt or conveyor chain made of plastic. Also, the choice of metal chains or bands may be useful. In the case of a rotating conveyor plate may further be provided that the film carrier are net angeord only in an outer circumferential region and the rest of the conveyor plate is provided to save weight with recesses. Of course, a wide variety of materials can also be used here.

To the folding film carrier in its initial position, i. in a position in which he can be loaded with a piece of film to secure to the carrier system, a positive or non-positive connection can be provided. Thus, it is conceivable, for example, to provide a releasable latching connection via a releasable latching connection, which can be achieved in the flap unit by corresponding the application of force and can be restored after flipping over when folding back. Alternatively, it is also conceivable to provide a magnetic connection or Velcro connection as a frictional connec tion between the film carrier and the associated carrier system of the conveyor unit, which in turn is easily solvable and at the same time secures the film carrier in its initial position.

In an alternative embodiment of the packaging device can be provided that the För dereinheit as a discontinuous conveyor unit, in particular as a linear drive device, is formed and at least partially allows discontinuous promotion of the film carrier between the machining processing units. In this way, the advantages already explained above of a discontinuous operation can be used above all during the forming process of the semifinished film, while the transport and the loading thereof can be carried out in continuous operation. In this case, a central drive provided in a continuously operating delivery unit would be dispensed with.

According to one development of the invention, it can be provided for both the tool system and the packaging device that the at least one interface of the tool center part or film carrier comprises a receiving area, and that at least one tool part is one of the processing stations. In some cases, the receiving area of the tool middle part or film carrier has an inner contour which corresponds to a corresponding outer contour of the respective tool part of the respective processing unit.

The provided at least one interface serves to enable the compatibility of the tool center part or film carrier with tool parts of the processing units. The interface may include, inter alia, a recording area in which case by case, d h. when the tool middle part or the film carrier has arrived in the region of a specific processing unit, a tool part of the associated processing unit in the receiving area is at least partially taken. For example, a die may be driven in and out of such a receiving area to cooperate with a die of the forming unit.

In order to ensure a defined and secure recording, a vote of the inner contour of the receiving area may be provided on the corresponding outer contour of the respective tool part. In this way it can also be ensured that only in a desired position of the tool parts to each other or of the film carrier to the tool parts of a processing unit can be done a machining device. As a result, a misalignment can lead to an interruption of the Bearbeitungsprozes ses, without that first committee must be produced and detected.

In addition, of course, other interfaces can be seen easily in different form, which are adapted to different tool parts of different processing units.

In a specific embodiment it can be provided that the tool center part or the Fo lienträger is formed substantially plate-shaped with a substantially central through hole as a receiving area, wherein in particular in the region of the central passage opening, a circumferential mold area can be provided with a phase of about 45 degrees which opens into the passage opening.

The plate-like design of a tool center part or film carrier allows the provision of a flat support portion on one of the end faces of the plate-like structure, on which a Foli can be stored enzuschnitt. Furthermore, a Chen based on the support section in Wesentli central through hole serve to machine tool parts of a Bearbeitungssein, z. B. a punch and a die from both sides of the film blank (eg through the central passage opening of the plate-like structure through) can act directly or indirectly on the film blank to edit this. In this case, in the central passage opening example, only a tool part can be added. Alternatively, during the processing step, both tool parts, ie tool upper part and lower tool part together may be accommodated therein at least from section. A conceivable development may consist in that in addition to the central through-opening a molding area in the manner of a chamfer of about 45 degrees angle may be provided, which opens into the passage opening. Of course, a deviating in their inclination de chamfer may be useful; For example, a circumferential chamfer of about 30 degrees angle, 60 degrees angle or any number of degrees between be provided. The molding area with such a chamfer facilitates the merging of the tool parts of the tooling system in the manner of a joining bevel and, on the other hand, in combination with, for example, a corresponding die, can be used to apply or fold over the semi-finished film product in this area. Thus, for example, as will be explained in more detail below, forming in the joining planes of the two foli moldings edge depending on the choice of packaging geometry optically disturbing. In order to reduce this effect, the remaining edge can be applied in a marginal application method in a separate processing step, for example after joining the molded parts and a final blank. For this purpose, in a simple manner, a corresponding circumferential molding area can be hen vorgese, which opens, for example, in the passage opening. Of course, it is also conceivable that such a molding area is provided at a predetermined distance from the passage opening at the tool center part or film carrier.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the at least one interface of the tool center part or Fo lienträgers has a circumferential cutting groove and / or at least two clamping recesses. The advantage of a corresponding cutting groove is that it can cooperate with a corresponding cutting blade of a cutting unit in such a way that a clean edge section can be made before or after joining the semi-finished foil products.

With the help of at least two clamping recesses, however, it is possible to allow a particularly simple and secure fixation of a film blank or a semi-finished film on the film carriers or work tool center parts. Thus, it is known that the low weight of a film blank in United bond with the relatively large area of a packaging film makes them particularly susceptible to slipping Ver during transport. Known methods therefore use, for example, negative pressure in order to transport the foil blanks via vacuum conveyor belts or the like. However, these solutions have the disadvantage that they require extensive, additional machine equipment, which in turn increases complexity and costs.

In contrast to this, it is proposed that the film blank be caulked in an otherwise unused section, ie not in the region of the mold section which is to receive the food product later, during transport with the tool center part or film carrier. For this purpose, the further interface of the tool center part or film carrier has at least two clamping recesses into which corresponding form punches can enter. The resting between the forming die and the corresponding clamping recess on the tool center part or film carrier film is pressed in this way in the associated clamping recess and caulked with the film blank the middle part of the tool. This creates a form fit, in which the two connection partners Fo lie and clamping recess intermesh and prevent loosening.

The clamping recesses may in particular be set to the film plane, i. her Längser extension is inclined for this purpose at an angle of 30 to 60 degrees, so that it comes to embracing the film with the middle part of the tool. In a particularly simple embodiment, the clamping recesses are formed by holes with a circular cross-section, the longitudinal axis opti painter manner is inclined at an angle of 30 degrees to 60 degrees to the film plane. In this case, the clamping recesses or their longitudinal axes can in particular enclose an angle of about 60 to 120 degrees angle degrees between them. Alternative design variants, for example, one or more clamping recesses with a cross section with a more complex contour and a shape stamp with a corresponding mating contour are of course also conceivable as Spannaus recess, employed at a different angle, less than 30 degrees or greater than 60 degrees, to the film plane are.

An alternative or additional solution may consist in that the packaging device further comprises a securing arrangement for fixing the film semi-finished film packaging during transport between the processing units, wherein the securing arrangement is arranged above the För dereinheit to the semi-finished film of the film packaging between them and the films to secure the carriers of the conveyor unit. The securing arrangement may comprise different components for clamping, such as thin sheets or belt bands, which run above the Folienträ ger of the conveyor unit at the speed of the conveyor unit, in order to avoid friction between Foli enhalbzeug and the fuse arrangement. In the field of processing units, a backup of the film semi-finished products is not required, which is why the fuse arrangement in the area of loading processing units can be interrupted

It can further be provided that the at least one interface of the tool center part or Fo lienträgers has a separately formed functional ring, which may have in particular the circumferential shape region and / or the circumferential cutting groove and / or the clamping recesses. It is also conceivable that the functional ring is provided in addition to a voltage designed as a central Durchgangsöff receiving area. In this case it can be provided that the functional ring is arranged substantially concentric to the central passage opening. It is also conceivable that the functional ring is adapted in its inner contour to the outer contour of the passage opening.

By providing a separately formed functional ring, it is possible to easily and quickly adapt the tool center part or film carrier to different conditions of the packaging device and in the case of a detachable attachment to the tool center part or film carrier also easy to convert. Furthermore, by an appropriate choice of material of the functional ring denser- sem further functions are assigned, for example, a reduction or increase in Rei environment, adjustment of the required stiffness or elasticity and the like.

As already mentioned above, it can also be provided that the packaging device further comprises at least one forming die having a corresponding shape contour which corresponds to a contour of the peripheral mold area or to a contour of the clamping cavities, so that the at least one mold cavity at least partially into the circumferential mold area o- is able to immerse in one of the clamping recesses.

It may also be provided that the conveyor unit of a packaging device according to the prior invention in particular has a drive system with a sensor for detecting the position of the driven film carrier and / or for determining the distance traveled by the driven film carrier. This is a second measure to enable the individual tool parts to be accurately combined during the processing steps. With the help of a corresponding sensor as accurate as possible pre-positioning of the tool parts to each other is possible.

In particular, when the conveyor unit further comprises a drive unit for reciprocating we least one tool part of a processing unit at least partially along the conveying direction of the film carrier, with the aid of this drive unit, the corresponding gear ne tool part of a processing unit based on the position data from the sensor be aligned with high positional accuracy to the driven film carrier.

Finally, it can be provided that the molding unit of the packaging device has a punch with a shaping outer contour and a die with an inner recess which has an inner contour corresponding to the shaping outer contour of the punch, wherein the punch and / or the die at least partially has an elastic insert or have.

In particular, when the stamp has an area or region containing a difficult-to-form geometry, such as small projections, corners and edges, there is a high risk that a (relatively thin) film could tear in these areas. This is due to the fact that usually the stamp comes first with such protruding contours in contact with the film and is carried out by the above contour, a locally limited high pressurization of the film. Especially in such areas undergoes the film during forming the highest elongation. Typical examples of such difficult-to-mold geometries are, for example, the faces of figures which contain a plurality of partially strong contour transitions.

By providing a corresponding elastic insert in such a region, the pressure acting on the film in this region is reduced and thus the risk of tearing of the film is reduced. A conceivable embodiment of such an insert may include, for example, an insert made of an elastic plastic or elastomer. An embodiment with foam, example, foam rubber, or silicone is conceivable.

Furthermore, it is conceivable that the elastic insert protrudes slightly with respect to the remaining shape contour of the punch and / or the die, so that it is ensured that the insert first comes into contact with the film to be reshaped and the corresponding forming counterpart. In this way, in particular when using an insert made of an elastomer or silicone in addition to the effect of a reduced hardness and thus pressure load also a significant increase in friction (increased te stiction) can be achieved in this area. The increased friction prevents the foil from being stretched excessively in this area with the geometries which are difficult to form. This also reduces the risk of tearing the film in this area.

The insert may continue to be particularly interchangeable attached to the punch and / or the die is introduced. The interchangeability ensures that even in the case of wear, in particular due to embrittlement in the case of a used elastomer or silicone, the mold unit can be quickly repaired by a simple replacement. In this case, the elastic insert may be mounted, for example, a form-fitting manner on the die or the stamp. Conceivable from design variants include a knob-shaped structure on the insert and corresponding recesses on the punch or the die. Also, the insert, in particular in the case of Ver use of an elastomer or silicone as a material, are pressed into a corresponding recess and non-positively (due to the increased friction at the adjacent areas of the punch or the die) to be held therein.

A simple and reliable embodiment of the fuse arrangement is obtained if, in an advantageous development of the invention, this has at least one clamping element and at least one clamping element in the direction of the film carrier pressing spring element. Another advantage of this solu tion is that damage to the film or the film semi-finished by such Ausfüh tion of the fuse arrangement can be avoided.

In order to effect a secure opening of the clamping element and thus a release of the film carrier, may further be provided that the securing arrangement has at least one slotted guide, which is in operative connection with the at least one clamping element such that by means of the slotted guide opening of the clamping element against the Force of the spring element is effected.

Another way of securing the film semi-finished product is to form the securing arrangement so that the film semi-finished products of the film packaging are secured during transport on the film carrier by folding the film edges on the film carrier. The film edges are in such a manner applied to the film carrier, for example at an angle of 90 °, that this can not slip during transport on the film carrier.

Furthermore, the invention proposes a method with the features of claim 24.

Accordingly, in a first forming step, the at least one punch and the at least one die for forming the film are moved relative to each other, wherein the first minimum distance between the punch outer contour and the die inner contour in the moved-apart state is greater than the thickness of the film to be formed, and in at least a further forming step, the at least ei ne or a second punch and the at least one or a second die for forming the pre-shaped film section further brought together, wherein the second minimum distance between the punch outer contour and the Matrizeninnenkontur is smaller than the first minimum distance.

The first minimum distance may be selected depending on the forming properties and friction properties of the material to be transferred and, for example, twice the thickness of the film to be formed.

In the process of the invention, the film to be formed, whether pre-cut or not, is subjected to a multi-stage process, i. in several, so at least two, strokes, deformed. In the first step, in which the essential part of the forming is carried out, the friction between the film and the forming tool parts is significantly reduced by the provided minimum distance between punch and die. Accordingly, the risk of tearing the film during this operation can be significantly reduced. In at least one further step, the preformed film is then reshaped or brought into the desired final shape. The molds are moved in the usual way relative to each other, i. it can only rize the ridge relative to the mat, the die relative to the punch or both tool parts are moved to each other.

Due to the fact that the film is already substantially preformed, in the next step, only a ring deformation or folding must be carried out, so that the frictional forces normally occurring here do not entail a high risk of tearing the film.

In principle, it is of course also conceivable to use more than two shaping steps, i. for example, three or four molding steps to perform. However, several forming steps require a longer processing time, which in turn can have a negative effect on the production costs and the production volume. In addition, the additional advantage over a method with two steps is possibly no longer so great that this brings a significant benefit over the longer processing times processing with it.

When referring to forming steps or working strokes, this does not mean that the forming tools are returned to their original position between the first and further forming steps have to. Instead, the molds used of the first forming step after a short Un interruption or pause can be spent in their position with a first minimum distance from each other from this position to their second position with a second smaller minimum distance from each other. Only in the case of a conceivable change of the molds used may a reset set ting to the starting position may be required.

According to a further development of the present invention it can be provided that in the first forming step a first punch is used and in the second forming step a second punch, wherein the first punch and the second punch have substantially the same outer contour, but the first punch around one given factor is smaller than the second stamp.

Furthermore, it can additionally or alternatively be provided that in the first forming step, a first die is used and in the second forming step, a second die, wherein the first die and the second die have substantially the same outer contour, but the first die to egg nen predetermined Factor is greater than the second template.

It is therefore conceivable that in the process different stamps with one and the same die ver used, or that in the process different matrices are used with one and the same stamp, or that in the process a plurality of different die-punch pairs ver used ,

In addition, it may be provided that the molding unit further comprises a hold-down, the Nie derhalter in the first molding step has a minimum distance from the support surface of the mold unit has, which is greater than the thickness of the film blank to be deformed, and wherein the hold-down in a further molding step in Appendix to a preformed film section surrounding the flange portion of the film is brought, so that this flange portion of the film between the hold-down and the bearing surface of the mold unit is frictionally held.

The hold-down takes over in the further, in particular the last, forming step, the usual function of a hold-down, namely the fixation of the film to be deformed in an edge region which is not to be transformed by punch and die of the mold unit. In the first molding step, however, the fact that the hold-down is kept at a distance to the support surface and thus also to the film to be deformed, in turn, the friction occurring between the film and the tool parts during forming of the film can be further reduced. In this case, during the first forming step, the holding-down device can be kept, for example, at a minimum distance from the support surface, which has a multiple of the thickness of the film to be deformed, for example twice, three times or five times the thickness of the film to be formed. Again, the minimum distance may be selected depending on the forming properties and friction properties of the material to be formed.

According to a further aspect of the invention, a method having the features of claim 28 may also contribute to a reduction of the disadvantages known from the prior art.

In order to hold the hold-down in a simple manner at a predetermined distance from the support surface and thus to the film to be deformed spacers or spacer projections or the like may be provided, which are arranged in the first forming step between the hold-down and the support surface of the mold unit. For example, axial (based on the axial Flubbewegung the tool parts of the mold unit) distance projections on the hold-down or on the support surface be arranged and be supported in the first molding step on the support surface or the hold-down. Furthermore, the support surface or the hold-down can each have recesses in which the Dis dance projections are able to immerse in a further molding step. For this purpose, in a further molding step, the hold-down device can be displaced or rotated relative to the support surface. The distance projections can intervene in the shifted or twisted position in the corresponding recess in the manner, so that the desired investment of the blank holder can be achieved.

In the case of more than two forming steps, intermediate positions of the hold-down can be achieved in the intermediate steps between the first and the last forming step, for example, by a plurality of radially offset recesses of different immersion depth, depending on the relative Verdre hung the hold-down to the support surface, the distance projections in different depths Recesses are able to intervene.

Furthermore, it may additionally or alternatively be provided that at least one die and / or we at least one stamp at least partially has or have an elastic insert.

In particular, when the stamp has an area or region containing a difficult-to-form geometry, such as small projections, corners and / or edges, there is a high risk that a (relatively thin) foil will tear in these areas could. This is due to the fact that usually the stamp first comes into contact with the film with such protruding contours and the contour shown above results in a locally limited high pressurization of the film. Especially in such areas undergoes the film during forming the highest Krafteinwir effect, in particular elongation. Typical examples of such hard-to-mold geometries are, for example, the faces of figures that include a plurality of partially distinct contour transitions. By providing a corresponding elastic insert in such a region, the pressure acting on the film in this region is reduced and thus the risk of tearing of the film is reduced.

A conceivable embodiment of such an insert may include, for example, an insert made of an elastic plastic or elastomer. In particular, a configuration with foam, for example, sponge rubber, rubber or silicone is conceivable.

The insert may continue to be particularly interchangeable attached to the punch and / or the die is introduced. The interchangeability ensures that even in the case of wear, in particular due to embrittlement in the case of a used elastomer or silicone, the shape beauty can be quickly repaired by a simple replacement.

In this case, the elastic insert, for example, be form-fitting to the die or the punch be introduced. In this case, holding structures may be provided on the insert or on the receptacle, which enables a form-fitting engagement of a corresponding holding structure on the receptacle or insert. Conceivable design variants include, for example, a knob-shaped or mushroom-shaped structure on the insert and corresponding recesses on the punch or the die.

Also, the insert, in particular when using an elastomer or silicone as the material, can be pressed into a corresponding recess and held in a non-positive manner (as a result of the increased friction at the adjacent regions of the punch or die).

In addition, the present invention also relates to a molding unit for molding film moldings of a film packaging of food products, in particular chocolate hollow bodies, with the features of claim 31.

Furthermore, the invention also relates to a method for molding foil moldings of a Folienver pack of food products according to claim 36. Characterized in that in the molding process both the punch in the direction of the die and the die are moved in the direction of the punch and the die is moved in the direction of the punch that the die already before reaching a lower reversal point of the punch in contact with the film comes is at an earlier time than usual, namely before reaching the lower point of return to achieve a deformation of the film, which is much lower holding forces he give and a simpler design of the entire tool is possible. Among others, thereby the film carrier with a very simple, describing the figure to be packaged zweidimen sional contour instead of a three-dimensional contour are performed for each film carrier, which due to the fact that the film carrier is used several times in the mold unit, to erhebli chen cost savings leads. Another advantage of the solution according to the invention is that due to the lower hold-down forces and the resulting reduced load on the film damage to the same can be substantially reduced or excluded.

In an advantageous development of this method can be provided that, after the die has come into contact with the film, the punch and the die moves in the same direction who the, wherein the film between the punch and the die is fixed. As a result, particularly critical areas of the film can be reliably shaped. Further, in this method it is possible to control the punch so that it is moved back after dipping in the film carrier with the die back to support a preforming of the film by the die.

The present invention also relates to a packaging device having the features of claim 38. Such comprises: a cutting unit for cutting the semi-finished film products, a forming unit for forming the semi-finished film products and a closing unit for connecting the Folienhalb witnesses to a closed housing for the received food product. In addition, the packaging device comprises a conveyor unit for conveying the to be processed Folienhalb witnesses the film packaging between the individual processing units of Verpackungsvorrich device.

Furthermore, such a packaging device may comprise a number of processing units for processing the film semi-finished products of the film packaging, which are designed as tool systems with at least three tool parts, namely with at least one tool center part and a tool lower part (for example, a die) and a tool upper part (for example, a stamp), who are able to work together in the company.

Furthermore, in such a packaging device, the conveyor unit can use the middle part of the tool in the form of a film carrier for receiving and conveying at least one to be processed films semi-finished the film packaging between the individual processing units of Verpackungsvorrich device. In addition, it can be provided that the tool middle part with in each case at least one further tool part (ie the lower tool part or the upper tool part) of the tool system can cooperate, wherein the other tool part is a tool part of the machining processing units, which serve the processing of the semi-finished film from the recording on the tool means part until its completion as a film package. For this purpose, the tool middle part has at least one interface, by means of which it is compatible with at least one tool part of each of these machining units.

The advantage of this embodiment is therefore that the lower part of the tool and the upper part are each assigned to a processing unit, for example, tool parts of a cutting unit, form a joining unit or a forming unit, while the middle part of the tool processing units with a recorded semi-finished film passes through and thus implement the Foli semi-finished between the individual processing units with additional transport devices, as is known from the prior art, unnecessary.

The processing units of the packaging device, which serve un indirectly for processing the film semi-finished products of the film packaging in the sense of this embodiment variant, can all as a tooling system with at least one lower tool part and a tool shell, which are associated with the machining processing unit, and a middle part of the tool for processing the recorded semi-finished film spent in the processing unit and subsequently out of this geför can be changed, be constructed. In this case, the film carrier of the conveyor unit, which correspond to the tool middle part of the tool system, be compatible with each of the processing units.

If further processing units are provided, which do not serve the immediate processing of Foli semi-finished products, such as a loading unit for selectively loading the molded film moldings or a flap unit for selectively folding the unassembled foil moldings on each case a populated foil molding, so the film carrier so far compatible with Be this processing units processing that the film carrier can pass through these processing units and recorded therein semi-finished foil can be processed accordingly.

Thus, for example, be provided that each two adjacent film carrier are connected to each other via a folding mechanism, and the one film carrier, each of which carries a blank Foli enformteil is folded in a flap unit to fold this unpopulated film molding on the pieced sheet molding, and is folded back in the aftermath. It can also be provided that every second film carrier is provided with a marking of whatever kind, which indicates that this film carrier is to be populated or not populated. In this way, in particular a robotic assembly, for example with the help of a delta robot, can be meaningfully supported.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the conveyor unit is designed as a continuous conveyor unit and in particular a circulating conveyor belt, a rotating conveyor chain or a rotating För derplatte comprises. As a result, a continuous promotion of the film carrier between the machining processing areas and thus an improved cycle time is achieved, which in addition to the advantage of a smaller committee in particular allows a higher output.

Generally speaking, the conveyor unit thus has a circulating carrier system for the film carrier and thus the semi-finished products received therein. The film carrier can be attached to under different ways on the associated continuously rotating carrier system. For example, it is conceivable to attach in pairs connected via a folding mechanism film carriers only those film carrier, which is equipped in the loading unit with a food product and thus is not folded by the flap unit.

Furthermore, it can be provided that at least one tool part of the tool system, in particular the lower tool part and / or the upper tool part, is mounted floating in at least one direction transversely to the machining direction.

Due to the multi-part tool system, it is necessary to perform the tool parts for a clean and safe processing very accurately together in the individual processing units. To compensate for a slight misalignment of the tool parts to each other, a floating position tion be provided at one or more of the tool parts of the tool system. In particular, it can be provided, for example, that the middle part of the tool represents the leading system, ie the reference, and that the lower part of the tool and the upper part of the tool are aligned with the middle part of the tool. In this embodiment, the floating bearing may be provided on the lower tool part and / or the upper tool part.

This can be achieved, for example, with the aid of an adapter plate which is connected to the tool lower part or the upper tool part such that it permits a relative movement transversely to the machining direction of the tool. The machining direction indicates the direction in which the tool parts, i. In particular, the cooperating tool parts of the tool system are moved in a processing step to allow processing of the film semi-finished product. In the case of a forming unit or a cutting unit, this may in particular be a lifting movement.

In order to facilitate a merging of the tool parts of the tool system during a machining step, it may further be provided that at least one tool part, in particular the tool lower part and / or the tool upper part, has joining margins, or have. Furthermore, it can be provided that, alternatively or in addition to the joining bevels, guide aids, for example in the form of a projecting structure on one of the tool parts, which is able to dive into a corresponding receiving structure on another of the tool parts, are provided in order to ensure a reliable alignment of the Ensure tool parts during a machining step.

According to a development of this variant, provision may be made for the tool lower part and / or the upper tool part of a machining unit to be movable at least in sections along the conveying direction of the middle part of the tool. This measure is also used in particular to enable egg nen continuous operation of such a packaging device, which uses processing units as tooling tool systems according to the invention. Thus, the processing steps for men, cutting and joining usually take place within a certain time window within which a relative movement between the middle part of the tool and the lower and upper parts of the tool would be disadvantageous. Thus, at least for the duration of the respective processing step, the tool middle part must be stationary relative to the tool lower part and upper tool part of the processing unit.

In the prior art, a discontinuous operation is proposed in which, for example, the clock table (WO 2017/144664 A1) is stationary during the respective processing step. As a result, the standstill of the clock table is also after the longest processing time, whereby a addi cher lost time.

According to this development can be achieved by the mobility of the tool parts of a processing unit along the conveying direction of the Werkzeugmitteilteils (at least over a predetermined distance) continuous operation without unwanted downtime. The drive of the tool middle part can run, for example, at a speed of 20m / min up to 30m / min. Of course, however, devices are conceivable in which the drive runs at a speed higher than 30m / min or at a speed lower than 20m / min.

Depending on the processing time in a processing unit can be at the speed at which the drive of the tool center part runs, the zurücklegbare distance length for each mitzubewegende tool part of the processing unit, i. the lower tool part and / or the upper part of the tool, be measured. The recovery of the moving in the conveying direction of the tool center part with this or sen during the machining process moving tool part (s) of the processing unit can be done by means of a separate drive or for example via a restoring device, which in particular uses an elastic mechanism for feedback. Conceivable for this are beispielswei se coil springs or the like.

According to a further development, provision can be made both for the tool system and the packaging device that the at least one interface of the tool center part or film carrier comprises a receiving area, and that at least one tool part of one of the processing units of the packaging device be accommodated in the receiving area of the tool center part or film carrier can, in particular, the receiving portion of the tool center part or film carrier has an inner contour which corresponds to a corresponding outer contour of the respective tool part of the respective processing unit.

In addition, of course, other interfaces can be seen easily in different form, which are adapted to different tool parts of different processing units. In a specific embodiment it can be provided that the tool center part or the Fo lienträger is formed substantially plate-shaped with a substantially central through hole as a receiving area, wherein in particular in the region of the central passage opening, a circumferential mold area can be provided with a phase of about 45 degrees which opens into the passage opening.

The plate-like design of a tool center part or film carrier allows the provision of a flat support portion on one of the end faces of the plate-like structure, on which a Foli can be stored enzuschnitt. Furthermore, a Chen based on the support section in Wesentli central through hole serve to machine tool parts of a Bearbeitungssein, z. For example, a punch and a die may act directly or indirectly on the foil blank from both sides of the foil blank (e.g., through the central passageway opening of the plate-like assembly) to process it. In this case, in the central passage opening example, only a tool part can be added. Alternatively, during the processing step, both tool parts, i. Tool upper part and lower tool part together are at least taken from it in sections.

A conceivable development may consist in that in addition to the central through-opening a molding area in the manner of a chamfer of about 45 degrees angle may be provided, which opens into the passage opening. Of course, a deviating in their inclination de chamfer may be useful; Thus, for example, a circumferential chamfer of about 30 degrees angle, 60 degrees angle or any number of degrees between them, be less than 30 degrees or greater than 60 degrees angle. The molding area with such a chamfer facilitates, on the one hand, in the manner of a joint oblique merging of the tool parts of the tool system and on the other hand in com bination with, for example, a corresponding die to be used to create the Folienhalb tool in this area or fold. Thus, for example, as will be explained in more detail below, an edge forming in the joining planes of the two film moldings, depending on the choice of packaging geometry, has a visually disturbing effect. In order to reduce this effect, the remaining edge can be applied in a marginal application method in a separate processing step, for example after joining the molded parts and a final cut. For this purpose, a corresponding circumferential mold area may be provided in a simple manner, which opens, for example, in the through-opening. Of course, it is also conceivable that such a molding area with a predetermined distance to the passage opening on the tool center part or film carrier is seen easily.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the at least one interface of the tool center part or Fo lienträgers has a circumferential cutting groove and / or at least two clamping recesses. The advantage of a corresponding cutting groove is that this with a corresponding Cutter of a cutting unit such interaction can be that a clean edge portion before or after joining the semi-finished foil can be done.

In contrast, it is proposed that the foil blank be stored in an otherwise unused section, i. not caulked in the region of the mold section, which is to receive the food product later, during transport with the tool center part or film carrier. For this purpose, the further interface of the tool center part or film carrier has at least two clamping recesses into which corresponding form punches can enter. The resting between the forming die and the associated clamping recess on the tool center part or film carrier foil is pressed in this way in the associated clamping recess and caulked the foil blank with the middle part of the tool. This creates a form fit, in which the two connection partners Fo lie and clamping recess intermesh and prevent loosening.

The clamping recesses may in particular be set to the film plane, i. her Längser extension is inclined for this purpose at an angle of 30 to 60 degrees, so that it comes to embracing the film with the middle part of the tool. In a particularly simple embodiment, the clamping recesses are formed by holes with a circular cross-section, the longitudinal axis opti painter manner is inclined at an angle of 30 degrees to 60 degrees to the film plane. In this case, the clamping recesses or their longitudinal axes can in particular enclose an angle of about 60 to 120 degrees angle degrees between them. Alternative design variants, for example, one or more clamping recesses with a cross section with a more complex contour and a shape stamp with a corresponding mating contour are of course also conceivable as Spannaus recess, which are employed at a different angle to the film plane.

An alternative or additional solution may consist in that the packaging device further comprises a securing arrangement for fixing the film semi-finished film packaging during transport between the processing units, wherein the securing arrangement is arranged above the För dereinheit to the semi-finished film of the film packaging between them and the films to secure the carriers of the conveyor unit. The securing arrangement can comprise different components for clamping, for example thin sheets or belt bands, which run above the film carrier of the conveyor unit at the speed of the conveyor unit, in order to prevent friction between films. Semi-finished and the fuse arrangement to avoid. In the field of processing units, a backup of the film semi-finished products is not required, which is why the fuse arrangement in the area of loading processing units can be interrupted

By providing a separately formed functional ring, it is possible to easily and quickly adapt the tool center part or film carrier to different conditions of the packaging device and in the case of a detachable attachment to the tool center part or film carrier also easy to convert. Furthermore, the sem further functions can be assigned by an appropriate choice of material of the functional ring, for example, a reduction or increase in Rei environment, adjustment of the required stiffness or elasticity and the like.

In particular, when the conveyor unit further comprises a drive unit for reciprocating we least one tool part of a processing unit at least partially along the conveying direction of the film carrier, with the aid of this drive unit, the corresponding gear ne tool part of a processing unit based on the position data from the sensor be aligned with high positional accuracy to the driven film carrier. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a packaging device having the features of claim 39.

Due to the planned division of the conveyor unit in discontinuously operated sections, continuously operated sections and sections, in which a synchronization of the discontinuously be exaggerated sections takes place with the continuously operated sections, not only one at each time or in each section optimal speed reached the conveyor unit, but it is also ensured by the synchronization that the continuous movement without too much acceleration, but still with high power goes into the discontinuous movement and vice versa. As a result, the above-mentioned advantages of a discontinuous operation, especially during the forming process of the semifinished sheet product, can be used, while in continuous operation the trans port and the loading of the semifinished sheet product can take place.

A particularly advantageous embodiment of this packaging device may be that the conveyor unit has pliable drive elements for forming the continuously operated sections, the discontinuously operated sections and the sections in which the synchronization of the discontinuously operated sections takes place with the continuously operated sections. These pliable drive elements, such as belts, represent a simple and reliable way to realize the described synchronization between the individual sections of the conveyor unit.

If in this case the non-rigid drive elements can be controlled by means of electronically controlled electric motors, such as servomotors, a particularly simple and reliable control of the entire method for packaging the food products that can be carried out with the packaging device results.

Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of an embodiment of the invention and from the dependent claims.

The invention is described below with reference to the accompanying figures. The figures show several features of the invention in combination. Of course, however, the skilled person is able to view them detached from one another and, if appropriate, to combine them into further useful sub-combinations without having to be inventive in their work.

The present invention is not limited to food products, but can also be used in packaging devices for packaging products of all kinds.

They show schematically: Fig. 1 A, 1 B, a packaging device according to the invention with a mold unit according to the invention in a highly schematic side view and top view in different embodiments;

2A is an exemplary tool system of the packaging device according to the invention according to Figures 1 A and 1 B for crimping and transport securing a Fo lienhalbzeugs on a film carrier.

Fig. 2B is a detail view of the detail B of Fig. 2A or 2C; FIG. 2C shows a variant of the tool system according to FIG. 2A; FIG. Fig. 3 is an isometric view of another exemplary embodiment of a

Tool system of the packaging device according to the invention according to the Figu Ren 1 A and 1 B;

4 shows a sectional view of the tool system according to FIG. 3;

FIGS. 5A, 5B show the interaction of lower tool part and upper tool part of a tool system according to FIGS. 3 and 4 during the molding process;

FIGS. 6A, 6B show a side view and a sectional view of the tool system according to the figures

5A and 5B;

7A is a sectional view of another exemplary tool system of the inventive packaging device in a sectional view;

Fig. 7B is a detail view of the detail B of Fig. 7A or 7C; FIG. 7C shows an alternative embodiment variant of the tool system according to FIG. 7A; FIG. 8A is an isometric view of another exemplary tooling system of FIG

Packaging device for illustrating the floating storage of one of the tool parts of the tool system;

FIG. 8B is a plan view of the tool system of FIG. 8A; FIG. FIG. 8C is a sectional view taken along section line C-C of FIG. 8B; FIG.

Fig. 8D is a detail view of a detail D of Fig. 8C; 9A shows another exemplary embodiment of a tool system of the inventive packaging device according to FIGS. 1A and 1B for applying an edge section of the packaging;

Fig. 9B is a detail view of the detail B of Fig. 9A or 9C;

FIG. 9C shows an alternative embodiment variant of the tool system according to FIG. 9A; FIG.

Figures 10A, 10B is a sectional view of a molding unit according to the invention in a first form step (Figure 10A) and in another final forming step (Figure 10B).

Fig. 11 shows an alternative embodiment of the tooling system of the packaging device;

FIGS. 12A, 12B show an alternative embodiment of a securing arrangement for fixing the semi-finished foil;

FIGS. 13A-13C show several steps in another method of forming foil moldings

Film packaging;

14 shows a further alternative embodiment of the tool system and the packaging device; and

15 shows a detail from FIG. 14.

FIGS. 1A and 1B show a highly schematic representation of a packaging device according to the invention with a forming unit according to the invention in side view and top view. In this case, Fig. 1 B shows an alternative embodiment variant of the packaging device according to FIG. 1 A, which is why the same features are provided with the same reference numerals, but this is preceded by the number "1".

In a conveying direction R _F first region A (shown in Fig. 1 right), the so-called Abrollbe rich A, a tape-shaped film F is unwound from a Foliencoil F _c .

As a film material, for example, an aluminum foil, an aluminum foil, which is laminated for example with a seal layer, formable paper, which is optionally also laminated with a sealing view, or plastic film can be used. In this case, the film does not have to be flexible at room temperature, but can also have the illustrated flexibility only in higher temperature ranges. In this case, be already in the rolling range A or in the conveying direction R _F adjoining area B, vorlie ing referred to as calming B, thermally by heating elements or the like on the film be acted. Alternatively, it is of course also conceivable to use plastic plates or derglei surfaces for material promotion instead of a Foliencoils. These can likewise be thermally heated in the first region A or the region B adjoining them in the conveying direction R _F and thereby made deformable.

In the illustrated embodiment, the film coil is pushed onto a mandrel. This is in particular mounted on one side, so that a quick change can be done at the end of the film. The foil coil is pushed against a stop. The roller can be fixed by a second clamping ring. After rolling a film loop (shown in the Abrollbereich A of Fig. 1), the film F in the packaging device 10 is inserted. This is necessary to keep the foil de-energized otherwise it could break. The loop size or sagging of the film F in the Abrollbereich A can be determined for example via a sensor.

In the lead-in area of the packaging device 10, i. in the calming area B, the film F should calm down in straight-line running. Flierzu it is guided laterally over a predetermined length, so that slight inclinations can be corrected at the film inlet.

Optionally, a print mark sensor may be provided at the end of the calming area B, which detects the position of the film passing through. Depending on the position, the film can then be accelerated or braked. This is done in the embodiment shown with the aid of two film rolls (shown schematically in the calming region B of FIG. 1 on the left side), between which the film F passes. The conveying speed of the film F in the region of these film rolls can be forwarded as a reference speed to a subsequent conveying unit 18 of the packaging device 10.

Alternatively, the film can also be braked or accelerated via fixing belts or belt belts 186, 188, which can run, for example, above the conveyor unit 18 (cf. also FIG. 1 B).

Subsequently, the film F is conveyed through the conveyor unit 18 by the packing device 10. The film F passes through together with the conveyor unit 18, the following units: mold unit 12, unit for loading and folding 14, and closing unit 16th

The conveyor unit 18 comprises a number of film carriers 20, which are conveyed continuously through the packaging device 10 via a revolving conveyor system, for example a conveyor belt, a conveyor chain or else a rotating conveyor plate. In the illustrated embodiment, a conveyor chain 22 is provided on which the film carriers 20 are mounted.

As shown in Fig. 1 in the region of the unit for loading and flaps 14, two be adjacent sheet carriers 20 may be connected in pairs via a hinged joint 20 a with each other. In this case, it is sufficient that the, for example, advancing film carrier 20 fixed to the circulating conveyor System, ie, for example, the conveyor chain 22 is connected, while the respective trailing film carrier 20, which can be folded over the folding joint 20 a on the leading film carrier 20 (indicated by the two folding arrows K), can be detachably attached to this. In this way, a desired folding over of one of the film carriers, as will be described in more detail below, made possible.

In order to fix the film F or the semifinished film products F _H , which are fastened on the respective film carriers 20, during transport, there are several possibilities. So it is possible to fix these beispielswei se via a generated vacuum. In this case, the individual film carriers, for example, suction holes, through which the film can be sucked. The vacuum may be generated by a vacuum blower or the like mounted under the slide carrier (not shown).

Alternatively or additionally, the pieces of film in the forming unit 12 may be stamped into the film supports 20 by cutting and / or forming, i. be positively connected with this. This solution will be further referred to below with reference to Figures 2A to 2C.

Alternatively or additionally, another possibility is to mount guides (see FIG. 1 B) above the foil or semi-finished foil products and outside the working region of the tools. The guides may include, for example, thin sheets or belt bands 186, 188 fixedly mounted to the machine frame. The belt bands 186, 188 in particular run at the same speed as the film carriers 20 Ge.

Under these guides and above the film carrier, the film runs. In the respective Bearbeitungssein units, the guide is cut out accordingly so that they can not collide with the processing tools col.

In the illustration shown in FIG. 1B, the film F passes between the respective belt bands 186, 188 and the conveyor unit 118 and is pressed against the film carriers 120 by the belt bands so that they can not slip or fly away during transport. Once the film semi-finished products F _H then populated in the area 14 with products and together zusammenge together to form a foil packaging or are joined, a separate guide is no longer essential. The molded package will be held securely by gravity (as a result of the product being picked up) on the film carrier.

In the forming unit 12, referring to FIGS. 3 to 6B and 10A, 10B? Furthermore, reference is made in detail Lich, the substantially flat film F is segmented, ie from the film web a piece of film is cut. This is achieved by means of a Segmentschneidmessers 34, which is able to move in a lifting movement Z relative to the film carrier 20. The cut piece of film or film semi-finished product F _H rests on the continuously moving film carrier 20 and moves into the processing region of the mold that consists of a forming die 30 and a corresponding die 32 composed. In order to reduce wrinkling during the molding process, a hold-down device may additionally be provided (not shown in the present case), which clamps the film F between itself and the support surface of the film carrier 20.

In principle, it is also conceivable that the molding process is carried out before the film is segmented. In this case, the segment punch 34a upstream of the forming punch 30 in the conveying direction R _F is not used for this purpose, but a cutting blade 34b connected downstream of this. Subsequent to the molding process, the preformed film, whether segmented or not, can also be cut to length, ie, the preformed semi-finished film F _H with the desired final contour is cut out of the film with the aid of a schematically illustrated end cutting knife 36. In the variant with a cutting unit described with reference to FIGS. 7A to 7C, however, the step of final cutting takes place in the region of the closing unit 16, ie after the loading and folding of the semi-finished moldings. In principle, it is also conceivable to carry out the step of segment cutting as the last processing step, ie after shaping and final cutting.

When the final cutting step is performed in the area of the forming unit 12, the final cutting can be performed in the same stroke, i. be performed with the same stroke Z, in which the shaping was performed by.

As can also clearly be seen in FIG. 1, the machining tools of the molding unit 12, ie both the combination of molding dies 30 and die 32, and the cutting blades 34 and 36 are not only movable in the stroke direction Z, but also in the direction X, ie they can move with the continuously moving film carrier 20 in the direction of the conveying direction R _F. To enable such a movement, in particular, a drive may be provided, which is provided in the exemplary Dar position of FIG. 1 with the reference numeral 24 and allows movement in the direction X. For this purpose, as shown schematically, for example in FIG. 2, the drive 24 is connected via force application points 26 and 28 with carriages of the respective processing tools.

Alternatively or additionally, in particular, the provision of the processing tools by means of an elastic return unit (not shown) take place.

The unit for loading and flaps 14 is shown in the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1 only indicated. The preformed semi-finished film products F _H can be equipped manually or automatically in this area 14 selectively after molding with food products or products of all kinds, ie that every second semi-finished film F _H is fitted in the illustrated embodiment. In a further step, then each unpacked semi-finished foil by means of folding Folienträ gers 20 are folded onto the stocked semi-finished film, the recorded product itself serves to center the folded semi-finished film F _H and the now deflated film carrier can then in a further Rückklappschritt back to the conveyor system be folded back. To this In this way, the two semi-finished foils F _{H are brought} together and form a common housing for the product accommodated therein (cf., for example, also FIG. 7A).

In the subsequent processing in the conveying direction R _F processing unit, the clamping unit 16, the two semi-finished film products are interconnected. The closing of the pre-assembled packaging in the form of the two semi-finished film products, ie, the joining together or joining, can be done both mechanically and thermally. A combination of these two methods is conceivable. With regard to the mechanical closing, inter alia, on a method according to the publication AT 221906 B verwie sen. With regard to a thermal process, reference is made, for example, to the document DE 1 21 1 913 B. A combined method is known, for example, from the publication US 2012/0204412 A1 in connection with the joining of metal components in the automotive industry.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1A, a closing mold 38 is shown by way of example as a tool upper part with a counter holder 40 as a tool lower part.

In a discharge direction E subsequent to the conveying direction R _F , the finished packaged products can finally be removed. Again, different approaches are conceivable, for example, they can fall when passing the film carrier on a slide or the like. Of course, natively they can also be taken manually or automatically.

FIGS. 2A and 2C show two variants of a tool system according to the invention for crimping and thus fixing a semifinished film product F _H on a film carrier 20. Accordingly, the same features are provided with the same reference numerals, however, in the second embodiment preceded by the number "1".

In the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 2A and 2B, a three-part tool system 42 according to the invention with a tool upper part 64, a lower tool part 70 and a film carrier 20 is shown, wherein the film carrier 20 forms the middle part of the tool. In the illustrated embodiment, the support surface of the film carrier 20 is formed by a functional ring 48, which may be occupied with unterschiedli Chen functional sections. One of these functional sections can be seen in the inclined recess 48 a from which a forming punch 46 of the upper tool part 64 is able to submerge. A circumferential film flange F _F is at least partially in the region of the recess 48. If now the forming punch 46 is inserted into the recess 48a with its shaping tip 44, then the partially resting foil flange F _{F is} inserted by the latter into the recess 48a, which leads to caulking of the foil flange F _F. Characterized in that the recess 48a ß at an angle (see Fig.. 2B) is inclined to the film support plane, and that this deformation of the Folienflanschs F _F is carried out on two gegenüberlie constricting sides of the circumferential flange F _F is a secure positive Fixie tion of Semifinished product F _H on the film carrier 20 reached. The embodiment of FIG. 2C differs only from that in FIG. 2A in that the tool lower part 170 is accommodated in another way in the tool middle part, ie the film carrier 120. This is to be shown in particular that this specific solution for crimping or caulking of the film semi-finished to the film carrier for better fixation detached from the specifi's embodiment of the film carrier and the tool center part 170 can be seen. This aspect of the invention is, of course, also conceivable detached from the remaining aspects of the invention, in particular the design of the tool system, the arrangement for forming with a hold-down and the specific molding method, and can accordingly also in other devices or in connection with a single-stage molding process come into use.

In Fig. 3 and the following Figures 4 to and in Figures 10A and 10B, the molding unit 12 of the packaging device 10 according to the invention is shown in more detail. This is also ausgebil det as dreiteili ges tool system with a tool shell in the form of the forming punch 30, with a tool lower part in the form of the die 32 and a middle part of the tool in the form of a film carrier 20. On the film carrier 20 is a film F, which is to be transformed by means of the forming die 30 and the associated gene die 32. It can also be clearly seen in FIG. 3 that the film carrier 20 has a central passage opening 50, which has a receiving area for the tool lower part, i. the die 32 forms. In order to allow an oriented recording, also Richtierungsauf 52 are provided, added to the corresponding projections 54 on the die 32 who the and can be secured against rotation of the die relative to the film carrier.

In FIGS. 5A to 6B, the illustration of the film carrier 20 has been omitted in order to simplify the illustration. In Fig. 4 it can be seen that the die 32 mausnehmung at its forming top has a For 56 whose inner contour is substantially adapted to a shaping outer contour 32 of the punch 30. In addition, it is provided on its non-forming underside a holder receptacle 58 for connection to a necessary lifting movement Z (see FIG.

In FIGS. 5A to 6B, the illustration of the film carrier 20 has been omitted in order to simplify the illustration. In Fig. 4 it can be seen that the die 32 mausnehmung at its forming top has a For 56 whose inner contour is substantially adapted to a shaping outer contour 62. At its non-forming bottom, it is also provided with a holder receptacle 58 for connec tion with a necessary lifting movement Z (see Fig. 1) initiating holder. ??

In Figures 10A and 10B, a molding method according to the invention is also shown, which can be usefully used both in connection with the packaging apparatus 10 according to the invention and the tool system according to the invention, as well as detached therefrom with any known Formei beauty.

In a first step (see Fig. 10A), the punch 30 and the die 32 for molding the film will be moved toward each other, ie, the punch 30 is particularly in the Matrix 32 retracted, wherein the minimum distance between the punch outer contour 62 and the Matrizeninneninnen 56 in the juxtaposed state is greater than the thickness of the film to be deformed. In the illustration shown, it can be seen that the film is already preformed into a semi-finished film F _H , wherein a film flange F _f , the rize 32 radially surrounds the preformed portion of the film semi-finished product F _H within the Mat, rests against the underside of a blank holder 90.

Unlike conventional in the prior art, the hold-down 90 at the first forming step a minimum distance to the support surface 92 of the forming unit 12, so that the film flange F _{F is} not clamped between the support surface 92 and the contact surface of the blank holder 90. This, as well as the minimum distance between the punch outer contour 62 and the die inner contour 56 in the mutually moved state, a reduced friction and thus reduced load on the film result, whereby the risk of tearing of the film can be reduced even when using a comparatively thin film.

Only in a further forming step (in the illustration shown a final second form step) of the hold-90 and the punch 30 are brought into the usual mold position in which the distance to the respective investment or form partners, i. the bearing surface 92 and the Formausneh tion 56, is less than the minimum distance in the first forming step, for example, substantially corresponds to the film thickness of the film to be deformed.

In the embodiment shown, the hold-down 90 is held ver storable by means of an elastic spring system 94 and can be kept, for example by means not shown spacers (spacers, Dis dance projections or the like) at the desired distance to the support surface 92.

In the embodiment shown, one and the same punch-die pair is used for the two-stage molding process. However, it is also conceivable to use a plurality of dies or dies or a plurality of different die-die pairs of different dimensions to achieve the desired effect of preforming in step 10A and final forming in step 10B.

In Figs. 5A to 6B, another detail of the present invention is shown. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the die 32 or 132 has an elastic insert 60 or 160, which is to serve for an improved forming of in particular those shaped areas (critical area CA), which have strong contour transitions.

This aspect of the invention, like the multi-stage molding process described above or the provision of a hold-down, which is not brought into contact with the film flange F _F in a first molding step, also conceivable in connection with such tool systems, which are not formed in three parts and at which in particular not the film carrier 20 forms a part of the tool system, which is why the features in Figures 5A and 5B, the same reference characters as in the übri conditions were given figures, but this was preceded by the number 1. In the figures 7A to 7C, another exemplary embodiment of a tool system according to the invention of the packaging device is shown. This relates to the final cutting of the semi-finished film F _H using a cutting blade 66 with a circumferential cutting contour. The cutting blade 66 is mounted on the upper tool part 64 and is moved with a stroke in the direction Z on the work zeugmittelteil in the form of the film carrier 20. The film carrier 20 has in the illustrated Ausfüh tion form an additional functional ring 48 which rests on the film carrier 20 and the Auflageflä surface for the semi-finished film or its circumferential film flanges F _F forms. On the functional ring 48, a circumferential cutting groove 82 is provided as a functional section into which the cutting blade 66 is able to dive. In principle, it is also conceivable to form the cutting groove 82 directly on the film carrier 20.

Next, a hold-down 68 is shown, which is able to tension the adjoining film flanges F _{F of} the successive semi-finished foil products F _H against the functional ring 48. For this purpose, the low-holder 68 is mounted in a known manner resiliently on the upper tool part 64, in such a way that it comes into span nende conditioning, preferably to the film flanges F _f , before the cutting blade 66 is able to immerse in the cutting groove 82.

The embodiment of FIG. 7C differs from that of FIG. 7A only in that the tool base 170 is received directly on the film carrier 120. Accordingly, the features in Figures 7A and 7C have been given the same reference numerals, but preceded by the numeral "1" in Figure 7C. The aspect of the invention described in connection with FIGS. 7A to 7C is, of course, also conceivable in connection with such tool systems which are not formed in three parts and in which, in particular, the film carrier does not form part of the tooling system. This aspect of the invention is of course also detached from the remaining aspects of the invention, in particular of the arrangement for molding with a hold-down and the specific molding process, conceivable and can accordingly in differently designed Vorrich lines or in connection with a single-stage molding process are used.

As can be seen in FIG. 7B, a detailed illustration of the detail B according to FIG. 7A or 7C, the flange section F _{F of} the upper semifinished film F _H and the flange section F _{F of} the lower flange semifinished product F _H lie flat on each other during the processing step of the final cutting and can be cut in this way in a common processing step. This has the advantage that not two semi-finished film must be cut. On the other hand, this also ensures that the process of final cutting only takes place when the product to be absorbed has already been taken up in the foil packaging and enclosed by it in a protective manner. In particular, in connection with food products, this is advantageous because a house of pieces of film, which can occur during the cutting process, can be reliably prevented. The step of the final cutting can take place before the mechanical and / or thermal bonding of the semi-finished film products F _H or thereafter. In particular, in a purely mechanical joining of the semi-finished sheet, for example by crimping or folding, the end cutting usefully take place before joining, while in a thermal bonding, for example by sealing, the end cutting can be done both before and after bonding.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the sealing is performed before folding or crimping. In addition, it can be provided that only on one side of a sealing layer is applied.

FIGS. 8A to 8D show, by way of example, how a floating mounting of at least one of the workpieces of a tool system according to the invention can be carried out, which makes possible a better alignment of the tool parts during a processing step. For example, in FIG. 8A, a tool system with an upper tool part 64 and a lower tool part 70 is shown. To simplify the representation, the representation of the tool middle part has been omitted here.

The tool upper part 64 is connected to a machining movement initiating push rod 84 via an adapter plate 72. The push rod 84 and the adapter plate 72 are firmly connected to each other, for example, integrally formed, welded or otherwise like firmly joined together. The upper tool part 64, however, is attached to the adapter plate 72 by means of four bolts 74. It is between tween the respective pin 74 and the associated receptacle of the adapter plate 72 a game of example 0.5 mm provided that allows a corresponding tolerance compensation for positioning errors between the upper tool part 64 and the lower tool part 70. This can be seen in particular on the detailed illustration of FIG. 8D. The floating bearing allows a tolerance compensation. in several directions transverse to the machining movement, in this case in a plane perpendicular to the machining direction.

If possible positioning errors or tolerances in a three-part tool system to be compensated, especially in such a, in which the tool center part is ge by a film support 20 forms, both the upper tool part and the lower tool part can be provided with a corre sponding floating bearing. Furthermore, it may also be useful to provide Füschrrägen that allow easier merging and positioning of the individual tool parts relative to each other. Other measures, such as guide projections, the corresponding Ausneh ments to dive each other one of the tool parts able to ensure a secure posi tioning during the machining process, are of course also conceivable.

Finally, FIGS. 9A to 9C show a further exemplary embodiment of a three-part tool system of the packaging device according to the invention. In the illustrated embodiment form is a docking device 76, by means of which a protruding edge of the already joined packaging in the form of semi-finished film products F _H can be applied by a predetermined angle in order to facilitate the handling of the joined packaging. For this purpose, at the tool Part 70 or the film carrier 20 or an associated functional ring 48, a circumferential molding area 80 or 180 is provided, in which a corresponding forming die 78 or 178 is able to dive to create the protruding edge of the film semi-finished products F _H accordingly. Flierzu an inclination angle of a at the forming die 78 and corresponding molding area 80 is provided.

FIGS. 9A and 9C show two variants of a tooling system according to the invention for application. Accordingly, the same features are provided with the same reference numerals, but in the second embodiment, these are preceded by the numeral "1".

The embodiment of Fig. 9C differs from Fig. 9A only in that the tool base 170 is otherwise located in the tool center portion, i. the film carrier 120 is added. This is to be shown in particular that this specific solution for applying the film edge detached from the specific configuration of the packaging device, the tool system and in particular of the film carrier 120 and the tool center part 170 can be seen. This aspect of the invention is, of course, also conceivable detached from the remaining aspects of the invention, in particular the design of the tool system, the arrangement for forming with a hold-down and the specific molding method, and can accordingly also in other devices or in connection with a single-stage molding process come into use.

The application device 76 for applying the protruding edge can be designed so that the from standing edge is not completely applied, but that an edge portion stops. As a result, the contact contour of the packaging would not be circular, but rather open at the point where the edge should not be applied. In other words, in the case of a tear-open aid created thereby, the investor's or the application form is interrupted and the edge or the tear-open aid projects outward. In this way, a user-friendly tear-open that results from the packaged product so that a user can grasp it well. The application device 76 may also be arranged outside the machine, from where they can be brought by suitable means, in particular handling devices, such as multi-axis robots, Linearzuführeinrichtungen or the like to the desired location. The applicator 76 may also be designed to accommodate different contours of the package or to accommodate different contours of the package. This can be achieved, for example, by means of suitable resilient or yielding elements that can adapt to different contours.

Fig. 11 shows in a very schematic way an alternative embodiment of the tooling system of the packaging device. In this case, the features corresponding to the features of Fig. 1 A are provided with the same reference numerals, which, however, the digit "2" is prefixed.

In contrast to the continuously operating conveyor unit 18 according to FIG. 1 A or the continuously operating conveyor unit 1 18 according to FIG. 1B, the conveyor unit 218 according to FIG. 1 1 is at least cut from the same as a discontinuously operating conveyor unit 218. In the present case If the conveying unit 218 is discontinuous in the area of the forming unit 212, that is, it operates discontinuously in the area of the forming unit 212 or is operated discontinuously in the area of the forming unit 212. As a result, the processing of the film semi-finished products F _{H is} simplified by means of the tool system and reduces the wear of the tool system.

In the illustrated embodiment, the conveyor unit 218 has a very schematically indicated Li nearantriebseinrichtung 223 for the individual tool center parts, which may be formed and operated in a conventional manner. By means of the linear drive device 223, very high speeds can be achieved during transport of the semi-finished film products F _H. At the same time, each tool middle part can be controlled separately, so that it is very easy to stop the tool middle parts in the area of the mold unit 212, so that the forming of the film semi-finished products F _H can be performed by a simpler than in a fully continuous operation. In the other areas of the packaging apparatus 210, for example in the loading area, the tool center parts may be moved continuously and possibly at higher speeds and / or accelerations than in the embodiments described in reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B, so that there are no delays result in the processing of the film F. Despite the separate control of the tool middle parts, these can of course be synchronized with each other, for example by means of a control device, not shown, so as to ensure a trouble-free operation. Instead of the linear drive device 223, other drives can be used, which allow at least in sections of the conveyor unit 218 discontinuous operation of the same. In example, the at least partial use of pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders is possible. In this embodiment, the vorgese in the continuously operating conveyor unit 18 and 1 18 hene central drive 24 would be omitted or replaced by the linear drive device 223.

FIGS. 12A and 12B show an alternative embodiment of a securing arrangement 300 for fi xing the semi-finished film products F _H. The securing arrangement 300 has a clamping element 301 and at least one spring element 302 which presses the clamping element 301 in the direction of the film carriers 20, 120. In the present case per se respective clamping elements 301 are provided on two opposite sides of the tool center part, which are pressed with two spring elements 302 in the direction of the Foli enträger 20, 120. In the present case, the spring elements 302 are leg springs, which are supported by one leg on the tool center part and by the other leg on the clamping element 301.

Furthermore, the fuse assembly 300 may have a gate guide, not shown, or the like, which is in operative connection with the at least one clamping element 301 or preferably with both Klemmelemen th 301, that by means of the slotted guide opening of the respective clamping element 301 against the force of the spring element 302 can be effected. As a result, a targeted opening of the fuse arrangement 300 is achieved. For example, the connection of the pens senführung can be done with the clamping elements 301 via a plunger, not shown, which acts on the clamping elements 301 and this opens against the force of the spring elements 302. In a manner not shown, however, an opening or releasing the clamping elements 301 against the force of the spring elements 302 by means of actuators or other suitable means is conceivable.

Another way to secure the film semi-finished product F _H may consist in that the films semifinished F _{H of} the film packaging during transport on the film carrier 20, 120 by Umle conditions of the film edges on the film carrier 20, 120 are secured. The film edges are thereby applied to the film carrier 20, 120, for example at an angle of 90 °, that they can not slip on the film carrier 20, 120 during transport. In contrast to the above-described enclosed crimping of the semi-finished film F _H with the film carrier 20, 120, the semi-finished film F _H is not pierced because, but only at its edges. A combination of crimping and flipping the edges is also possible.

FIGS. 13A, 13B and 13C show a further method for forming film shaped parts of the foil packaging from the film F. The tool system used for this purpose can correspond to that already described above. Therefore, the features corresponding to the features of Fig. 1A are provided with the same reference numerals but preceded by the numeral "2".

In the method illustrated in FIGS. 13A, 13B and 13C, in a first forming step, the at least one punch 230 and the at least one die 232 for forming the film F are moved relative to each other, with both the punch 230 in the direction of the die 232 and the die Die 232 are moved in the direction of the punch 230. In other words, the punch 230 and the die 232 are moved towards each other. In this case, the punch 230 and the die 232 are completely independently movable, for which purpose suitable drives can be used. The film carrier 220, however, remains stationary.

Furthermore, the die 232 can be moved in the direction of the punch 230 such that the die 232 already comes into contact with the film F before reaching a lower reversal point of the punch 230. Once the die 232 is in contact with the film F, it begins to deform so that it is preformed by contact with the die 232. Furthermore, in this way, the film F is pushed up, which leads to a further reduction of the required, held by a hold 290 hold down forces. In addition, the die 232 can be used to fix the position of the film F before it is deformed, which results in an improvement in the position and orientation of the printed image. Of course, the die 232 does not have to be contoured exactly as shown in FIGS. 13A, 13B and 13C and can also be used in smooth shapes as the illustrated shape.

In this regard, in addition, the punch 230 may be controlled to be moved back into the film carrier 220 after immersion to assist in the described preforming of the film F by the die 232. This also gives rise to the possibility of more complex to realize the film packaging, since the film F can be formed from two sides. The retraction of the punch 230 also causes the sheet material to move toward the die 232 to facilitate the described deformation by the die 232. The described movement of the punch 230 upward may also be triggered by the die 232 if the force acting on the die 232 is greater than the force acting on the punch 230.

Fig. 14 schematically shows another alternative embodiment of the tooling system of the packaging apparatus. Again, the features corresponding to the features of Fig. 1A are provided with the same reference numerals, which, however, the digit "3" is prefixed.

In contrast to the continuously operating conveyor unit 18 according to FIG. 1A or the continuously operating conveyor unit 118 according to FIG. 1B, the conveyor unit 318 according to FIG. 14, similar to the conveyor unit 218 according to FIG. 11, is discontinuous at least in sections thereof working delivery unit 318 formed. In the present case, similar to the conveyor unit 218 according to FIG. 11, the conveyor unit 318 is discontinuous in the area of the forming unit 312, ie it operates discontinuously in the area of the forming unit 312 or is operated intermittently in the area of the forming unit 312, which in turn causes the Edit the semi-finished film F _H using the tool system ver simplifies and the wear of the tool system is reduced.

Between the sections in which the conveyor unit 318 is operated discontinuously, and cut from the sections in which the conveyor unit 318 is operated continuously, the conveyor unit 318 still has sections in which a synchronization of the discontinuously operated sections takes place with the continuously operated sections ie in which a transition from the discontinuously exaggerated sections to the continuously operated sections is realized. In the upper and in the lower portion of Fig. 14 are the continuously operated portions of the conveyor unit 318 with solid lines, the sections in which the synchronization takes place, with short dashed lines and the discontinued or cyclically operated sections of the conveyor unit 318 with long gestri chelten lines shown.

In the illustrated embodiment of Fig. 14, the conveyor unit 318 a plurality of, in the present case designed as a belt 323 pliable drive elements, which form the continuously operated sections, the discontinuously operated sections and the sections in which the synchronization of the discontinuously operated sections continuously operated from sections takes place, can be used. Instead of belts 323, the pliable on drive elements could also be designed as a chain or other suitable manner. In Fig. 15, the transition of a belt 323 to another belt 323, ie the synchronization represented. Preferably, the belts 323 are passed around respective pulleys, with a formschlüssi eng engagement between the belt 323 and the pulleys is preferable. Thus, the belts 323 may be for example toothed belts, cam belts or the like. The pliable drive elements, in the present case, the belt 323, allow a particularly easy transition between the continuously and the discontinuously operated Abschnit th the conveyor unit 318, which not only very high speeds during transport of the film semifinished F _H can be achieved, but also a safe operation of the conveyor unit 318 is guaranteed. The pliable drive elements can be controlled by means of respective servomotors who the to ensure that the process performed with the conveyor unit 318 or the process performed with the same is always under control. By virtue of the servomotors, the non-rigid drive elements can in principle be activated in any desired manner, so that any synchronization, in particular the respective desired synchronization, between the movement sequences is possible. Instead Servomo gates also asynchronous motors can be used with a corresponding electronic control.

Also, in this way, each tool middle part can be controlled separately, so that the tool can be very easily stopped in the area of the mold unit 312, whereby the forming of the film semi-finished products F _H can be performed easier than in a completely continuous operation. For holding the tool middle parts, the belts 323 may be provided on their sides facing the same with appropriate elevations, depressions or the like. In the other areas of the packaging apparatus 310, for example in the loading area, the tool means parts can be moved continuously and possibly at higher speeds and / or accelerations than in the embodiments described with reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B, so that there are no delays result in the processing of the film F. In the embodiment of FIG. 14, in turn, the central drive 24, which is seen in front of the continuously operating delivery unit 18 or 1 18, could be dispensed with.

In particular, the tool system described in FIG. 14 can also be used in other areas than the packaging area.

All embodiments described herein may be combined as desired, unless obvious reasons speak against particular combinations.

Claims

Patent claims

1. Tool system for use in a packaging device (10, 1, 10, 210, 310) for packaging of food products, in particular chocolate hollow bodies, by means of a Foli enverpackung, wherein the packaging device comprises a plurality of processing units for processing the film packaging comprising at least three tool parts, namely a tool middle part and a tool lower part (70, 170) and a tool upper part (64; 164), which are capable of interacting in operation,

characterized in that the tool middle part for receiving and conveying at least one semifinished product to be processed (F _H ) of the film packaging between individual processing units of the packaging device (10; 1 10; 210; 310) is used, and that the Werkzeugmit telteil with in each case at least one further tool part (64, 164, 70, 170) of the Werkzeugsys system interacts, wherein the further tool part (64, 164; 70, 170) each a tool part (64, 164; 70, 170) is one of the processing units, the processing of Foli semifinished product (F _h ) serve from the recording on the tool center part until its completion as a film packaging, and wherein the tool center part has at least one interface, by means of which it at least one tool part (64, 164; 70, 170) compatible processing units of each of these is.

2. Tool system according to claim 1,

characterized in that the tool center part by means of a conveyor unit (18, 1 18, 218, 318) can be driven and in particular a film carrier (20, 120) comprises, we least one semi-finished film (F _H ) is assigned.

3. Tool system according to claim 2,

characterized in that the conveyor unit (18, 1 18, 218, 318) at least in sections of the same as a continuously operating conveyor unit (18, 1 18, 218, 318) is formed.

4. Tool system according to claim 2 or 3,

characterized in that the conveyor unit (218, 318) is formed at least in sections thereof as a discontinuously operating conveyor unit (218, 318).

5. Tool system according to claim 2, 3 or 4,

characterized in that the conveyor unit (218) has a linear drive means (223) for the tool middle part.

6. Tool system according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that at least one tool part (64, 164; 70, 170), in particular the lower tool part (70, 170) and / or the upper tool part (64, 164), in at least one Rich device is mounted floatingly transversely to the machining direction (z) ,

7. Tool system according to claim 6,

characterized in that at least one tool part (64, 164; 70, 170), in particular the tool lower part (70, 170) and / or the tool upper part 64, 164), comprise joining bevels, in order to bring together the tool parts of the tool system during a To facilitate the processing step.

8. Tool system according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that the lower tool part (70, 170) and / or the upper tool part (64, 164) of a processing unit at least in sections along the conveying direction (R _F ) of the tool center part back and forth are movable.

9. Packaging device (10; 1 10; 210; 310) for packaging food products, in particular special of hollow chocolate bodies, by means of a film packaging comprising at least two films molded parts, wherein the packaging device comprises a number of processing units for processing the semi-finished film products (F _H ) Has foil packaging, namely:

a cutting unit for cutting the semi-finished foil products (F _H ),

a molding unit (12, 1 12) for molding the semi-finished film products (F _H ), and

a closing unit (16, 16) for connecting the semifinished film products to a closed housing for the received food product; such as

a conveyor unit (18, 1 18, 218, 318) for conveying the semifinished film products (F _H ) of the film packaging to be processed between the individual processing units of the packaging device (10, 1, 10, 210, 310),

characterized in that the conveyor unit (18, 1 18, 218, 318) has a number of driven Fo lienträger (20, 120) for receiving the semi-finished foil products to be processed (F _H ) of Folienverpa ckung, wherein each film carrier (20, 120) at least an interface, by means of which it is compatible with at least one tool part (64, 164; 70, 170) of each of the processing units, the processing of the semi-finished film (F _H ) of the recording on the Folienträ ger (20, 120) to its Completion serve as a foil packaging.

10. Packaging device (10; 1 10; 210; 310) according to claim 9,

characterized in that the conveyor unit (18, 1 18, 218, 318) as a continuous conveyor unit, in particular as a conveyor belt, conveyor chain (22, 122) or rotating conveyor plate is formed, and a continuous promotion of the film carrier (20, 120) between the Bearbeitungseinhei th allows.

1 1. Packaging device (10; 1 10; 210; 310) according to claim 9, characterized in that the conveyor unit (18, 1 18, 218, 318) as a discontinuous För dereinheit, in particular as a linear drive device (223), is formed and at least from section to a discontinuous promotion of the film carrier (20, 120) allows processing units between the processing.

12. Tool system according to one of claims 1 to 8 or packaging device (10; 1 10; 210;

310) according to any one of claims 9 to 1 1,

characterized in that the at least one interface of the tool center part or Foli enträgers (20, 120) comprises a receiving area, and that at least one tool part (64, 164; 70, 170) one of the processing units of the packaging device case by case and from sections in the receiving area of In particular, the receiving portion of the tool center part or Fo lienträgers (20, 120) has an inner contour which with a corresponding outer contour of the respective tool part (64, 164; 70, 170 ) corresponds to the respective processing unit.

A tooling system or packaging device (10; 1 10; 210; 310) according to claim 12,

characterized in that the central part of the tool or the film carrier (20, 120) in wesentli chen plate-shaped with a substantially central passage opening (50, 150) as Aufnah mebereich is formed, in particular in the region of the central passage opening, a circumferential molding area (80, 180 ) may be provided with a bevel of about 45 degrees, which opens, for example, in the passage opening (50, 150).

14. Tool system according to one of claims 1 to 8 or packaging device (10; 1 10; 210;

310) according to any one of claims 9 to 1 1,

characterized in that the at least one interface of the tool center part or Foli enträgers (20, 120) has a circumferential cutting groove (82, 182) and / or at least two Spannaus recesses (48 a, 148 a).

15. Tool system according to one of claims 1 to 8 or packaging device (10; 1 10; 210;

310) according to any one of claims 9 to 1 1,

characterized in that the interface of the tool center part or film carrier has a separately formed functional ring (48, 148), the region in particular the circumferential shape (80, 180) and / or the circumferential cutting groove (82, 182) and / or the Spannausnehmun conditions (48a, 148a).

16. A packaging device (10; 1 10; 210; 310) according to any one of claims 9 to 15,

characterized in that the packaging device (10; 1 10; 210; 310) further comprises at least one forming punch (46, 146; 78, 178) with a corresponding shape contour, which has a shape contour of the peripheral forming region (80, 180) or the clamping recesses (48a, 148a) corresponds, so that the at least one shaping punch (46, 146; 78, 178) at least off cut into the peripheral mold area (80, 180) or into one of the clamping recesses (48a, 148a).

17. Packaging device (10; 1 10; 210; 310) according to any one of claims 9 to 16, characterized in that the conveyor unit (18, 1 18, 218, 318) in particular a drive system with a sensor system for detecting the position of the driven Having film carrier and / or to determine the distance traveled by the driven film carrier.

18. Packaging device according to one of the preceding claims 9 to 17, characterized in that the conveyor unit further comprises a drive unit (24, 124) for reciprocating at least one tool part (64, 164, 70, 170) of a processing unit at least from sections along the conveying direction (R _F ) of the film carrier (20, 120).

19. Packaging device (10; 1 10; 210; 310) according to one of the preceding claims 9 to 18, characterized in that the molding unit (12, 1 12) comprises:

a punch (30, 130) having a shaping outer contour and a die (32, 132) with an inner recess (56, 156) which has an inner contour (62) corresponding to the shaping outer contour of the punch (30, 130), and the punch (30, 130) and / or the die (32, 132) has or have an elastic insert (60, 160) at least in sections.

20. Packaging device (10; 1 10; 210; 310) according to one of the preceding claims 9 to 19, characterized in that the packaging device (10; 1 10; 210; 310) further comprises: a securing arrangement (300) for fixing the semi-finished foil products (F _H ) of the film packaging during transport between the processing units, wherein the securing arrangement above the conveyor unit (18, 1 18, 218, 318) is arranged to the semi-finished foil (F _H ) of Fo lienverpackung between them and the film supports (20, 120) of the conveyor unit (18, 1 18, 218,

318) to secure.

21. Packaging device (10; 1 10; 210; 310) according to claim 20, characterized in that the securing arrangement (300) at least one clamping element (301) and at least one clamping element (301) in the direction of the film carrier (20, 120) pressing spring element (302).

22. Packaging device (10, 1, 10, 210, 310) according to claim 21, characterized in that the securing arrangement (300) has at least one slotted guide which is in operative connection with the at least one clamping element (301) in such a way that by means of the slotted guide an opening of the clamping element (301) against the force of the spring element (302) can be effected.

23. The packaging device (10, 1, 10, 210, 310) according to claim 20, 21 or 22, characterized in that the securing arrangement (300) is designed such that the semi-finished film products (F _h ) of the film packaging are transported on the film during transport Film carrier (20, 120) by folding the film edges on the film carrier (20, 120) are secured.

24. A method for molding film moldings of a film packaging of food products, in particular of chocolate hollow bodies, by means of a molding unit (12, 1 12), the surface (92) for a film to be deformed, at least one stamp (30, 130) with a formge surface Benden outer contour (62, 162), as well as at least one die (32, 132) with a Innenausneh tion (56, 156) having a with the outer contour (62, 162) of the at least one punch (30, 130) substantially corresponding Having inner contour,

characterized in that

in a first forming step, the at least one punch (30, 130) and the at least one Matri ze (32, 132) for forming the film are moved relative to each other, wherein a first Mindestab was in the first forming step between the punch outer contour (62, 162) and the die inner contour is larger than the thickness of the film to be deformed in the mutually moved state, and that

in at least one further forming step, the at least one or a second punch (30, 130) and the at least one or a second die (32, 132) for forming the preformed film section are further brought together, wherein a second minimum distance in the further forming step between the Stamp outer contour (62, 162) and the Matrizeninnenkontur in the combined menzustrachten state is less than the first minimum distance.

25. The method according to claim 24,

characterized in that in the first forming step, a first punch is used and in the second forming step, a second punch, wherein the first punch and the second punch have substantially the same outer contour, but the first punch is smaller by a predetermined factor than that second stamp.

26. The method according to claim 23 or 24,

characterized in that in the first forming step, a first die is used and in the second forming step, a second die, wherein the first die and the second die have substantially the same outer contour, but the first die is larger by a predetermined factor than that second template.

27. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 26, characterized in that the forming unit (12, 1 12) further comprises a hold-down (90), wherein the hold-down (90) in the first forming step, a minimum distance from the support surface (92) Forming unit (12) which is greater than the thickness of the film to be deformed, and wherein the hold-down (90) in a white direct forming step in Appendix to a preformed film section surrounding Flanschab section (F _f ) of the film is brought, so that this flange portion (F _f ) of the film between the hold-down (90) and the support surface (92) of the mold unit (12, 1 12) is held frictionally.

28. A method for molding foil moldings of a film packaging of food products, in particular of chocolate hollow bodies, by means of a molding unit (12, 112), the surface (92) for a film to be deformed, at least one stamp (30, 130) with a formge Benden Outer contour (62, 162), at least one die (32, 132) having an inner recess (56, 156) which has a with the outer contour (62, 162) of the at least one punch (30, 130) substantially corresponding inner contour, and a hold-down device (90), characterized in that

the holding-down device (90) at a first forming step has a minimum distance to the support surface (92) of the forming unit (12) which is greater than the thickness of the film to be formed, and wherein the hold-down device (90) is in contact with a further forming step the preformed film section surrounding flange (F _f ) of the film is brought so that this Flanschab section (F _f ) of the film between the hold-down (90) and the support surface (92) of the mold unit (12, 112) is held frictionally.

29. The method according to claim 27 or 28, characterized in that the forming unit comprises Distanzstü bridges or spacer projections or the like, the step in a first form hold the blank in the desired distance to the support surface of the mold unit.

30. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 29, characterized in that at least one die (32) and / or at least one punch (30) at least partially an elastic insert (60).

31, forming unit (12, 112) for molding film moldings of a film packaging of food products, in particular chocolate hollow bodies, the at least two film moldings to summarizes, wherein the molding unit (12, 1 12) comprises:

at least one punch (30, 130) with a shaping outer contour (62, 162) and at least one die (32, 132) with an inner recess (56, 156) having a corresponding in nenkontur

characterized in that the punch (30, 130) and / or the die (32, 132) at least from sections an elastic insert (60, 160).

32. The method of claim 30 or forming unit (12, 112) according to claim 31, characterized in that the elastic insert (60, 160) comprises an insert made of an elastic plastic or egg nem elastomer.

33. The method of claim 30 or 32 or molding unit (12, 112) according to claim 31 or 32,

characterized in that the elastic insert (60, 160) with respect to the remaining Formkon structure of the punch on which it is received, and / or with respect to the remaining shape contour of the die (32, 132), to which it is received, slightly protruding.

34. The method of claim 30, 32 or 33 or forming unit according to one of claims 31 to 33, characterized in that the elastic insert (60, 160) removably attached to the punch (30, 130) or the die (32, 132) is.

35. A method or molding unit according to claim 34, characterized in that the elastic A set is positively and / or non-positively attached to the punch or the die.

36. A method for molding foil moldings of a film packaging of food products, in particular chocolate hollow bodies, by means of a molding unit (12, 112), the surface (92) for a film to be deformed (F), at least one stamp (230) with a formge benden outer contour (62, 162), and at least one die (232) having an inner recess (56, 156) which has a with the outer contour (62, 162) of the at least one punch (230) substantially corresponding inner contour,

characterized in that

in a first forming step, the at least one punch (230) and the at least one die (232) for forming the film (F) are moved relative to each other, wherein both the punch (230) in the direction of the die (232) and the die ( 232) in the direction of the punch (230) be moved, and wherein the die (232) is moved in the direction of the punch (230) that the die (232) before reaching a lower reversal point of the punch (230) with the Foil (F) comes into contact.

A method according to claim 36, characterized in that, after the die (232) has come into contact with the film (F), the punch (230) and the die (232) are moved in the same direction, the film ( F) between the punch (230) and the die (232) is fixed.

38. Packaging device (10; 110; 210; 310) for packaging food products, in particular of hollow chocolate bodies, by means of a film packaging comprising at least two films molded parts, wherein the packaging device a number of processing units for processing the semi-finished film products (F _H ) of the film packaging comprising, namely:

a cutting unit for cutting the semi-finished foil products (F _H ),

a molding unit (12, 112) for molding the semi-finished film products (F _H ), and

a closing unit (16, 116) for connecting the semi-finished film to a closed Ge housing for the recorded food product; such as

a conveyor unit (18, 118, 218, 318) for conveying the semifinished products (F _H ) of the film packaging to be processed between the individual processing units of the packaging device (10, 110, 210, 310), characterized in that the packaging device has a forming unit with the features of claims 31 to 35 and / or a method for molding the film moldings having the features of claims 24 to 30 or 32 to 37 uses.

39. Packaging device (10; 110; 210; 310) for packaging food products, in particular chocolate hollow bodies, by means of a foil packaging which has at least two film molded parts, wherein the packaging device has a number of processing units for processing the semi-finished film products (F _H ) of the film packaging, namely:

a cutting unit for cutting the semi-finished foil products (F _H ),

a conveyor unit (18, 118, 218, 318) for conveying the semifinished products (F _H ) to be processed of the film packaging between the individual processing units of the packaging device (10, 110),

characterized in that the conveyor unit (18, 118, 218, 318) in sections thereof as a continuously operating conveyor unit (18, 1 18, 218, 318) and in sections thereof as dis continuously operating conveyor unit (18, 118, 218, 318) is formed, wherein sections are seen provided, in which a synchronization of the discontinuously operated sections takes place with the continuously operated sections.

40. Packaging device (10; 110; 210; 310) according to claim 39, characterized in that the conveyor unit (18,1,18,218,318) has pliable drive elements for forming the continuously driven sections, the discontinuously operated sections and the sections in which the synchronization of the discontinuously operated sections takes place with the continuously be exaggerated sections.

41. Packaging device (10; 110; 210; 310) according to claim 40, characterized in that the pliable drive elements can be controlled by means of electronically controlled electric motors.