AN APPARATUS AND A METHOD FOR PACKAGING PIECE GOODS AND IN PARTICULAR CONTAINERS

Abstract

An apparatus for packaging piece goods compilations includes a first wrapping device for wrapping up the piece goods with a film element, and a further wrapping device for wrapping up the piece goods with a film element, wherein the piece goods can be fed to the first wrapping device so as to be wrapped up with a film element, and wherein during working operation of the apparatus, the first wrapping device and the further wrapping device can be selectively used in order to wrap the piece goods up.

Description

The present invention relates to an apparatus and a method for packaging piece goods and in particular containers. It has been known for a long time from the prior art that containers are bundled up into groups of containers, for example so-called six-packs. Various approaches are known for this purpose. In one approach known from the prior art, these containers are packed in a film, which is then in turn shrunk onto the containers for example in a shrinking tunnel.

It has recently also become known to wrap up such groups of containers using a stretchable film (also referred to below as a stretch film). To this end, the containers are moved into a wrapping device and are wrapped up there using a stretchable film. This stretchable film is then usually wound off from rolls. When such a roll is empty, a new roll of plastic film has to be mounted, so that the process can be continued. Thus, changeover times occur in the prior art, during which the machine stands still.

The present invention is therefore based on the object of providing an apparatus and a method for reducing such changeover times. In particular, in this way the entire working efficiency of such apparatus is to be enhanced. According to the invention, these objects are achieved by means of the subject matter of the independent patent claims. Advantageous embodiments and developments are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

An apparatus according to the invention for packaging compilations of piece goods includes a transport device that transports a plurality of piece goods in a specified transport direction. Further, the apparatus includes a first wrapping device that is suitable and intended for wrapping a film element around the piece goods, and this first wrapping device has a dispensing unit with a dispensing element circulating around the piece goods, and the piece goods can be fed to the first wrapping device so as to be wrapped up with the film element.

According to the invention, the apparatus includes a further wrapping device that is suitable and intended for wrapping a film element around the piece goods, which further wrapping device includes a dispensing unit with a dispensing element that circulates around the piece goods, and the piece goods can be fed to the further wrapping device so as to be wrapped up with the film element, and wherein during working operation of the apparatus, the first wrapping device and the further wrapping device may be selectively used for wrapping up the piece goods.

It is therefore proposed to provide a further wrapping device that may in particular be used in cases where the first wrapping device is idle. This may for example be the case during repair works, however in particular also for example when a new film roll has to be loaded onto the first wrapping device. Conversely, the first wrapping device may be in operation, whilst the further wrapping device is idle and for example a new film roll is loaded thereon.

This dispensing element may include for example a carrier, on which a film roll can be rotationally provided. Apart from that, this dispensing element may also include deflection rollers and the like or a dispensing edge, from which the film element can be applied to the containers in a predefined manner. It would thus be possible for a supply angle, under which the dispensing element applies the film element onto the containers, to be modified.

In principle, also a simultaneous operation of the two wrapping devices would be conceivable. It is further proposed to design the further wrapping device and the first wrapping device in such a way that during ongoing operation, one of the two wrapping devices may selectively be idle. Whilst one wrapping device works in operation, it is thus possible to load the other wrapping device. Preferably, the two wrapping devices are designed in the same way. In this way, an automatic loading of the wrapping devices can be facilitated.

It would here be conceivable for each of these wrapping devices to have two dispensing units which may for example be disposed opposite one another. In this way, changeover processes could be made to be even faster if needed.

In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one wrapping device has a rigid carrier. This rigid carrier may be a carrier, on which the piece goods or the piece goods stream are/is transported and in particular pushed on. Advantageously, this in particular rigid carrier is also wrapped up with the film element. Subsequently, the piece goods or containers that have already been wrapped up can be pushed back off from this carrier. The film element will subsequently come to lie against a side of the containers, for example to a bottom of the containers. Preferably, this carrier extends in the transport direction of the piece goods or containers and in particular this carrier extends at least partially through at least one wrapping device.

The piece goods to be wrapped may, as mentioned above, in particular be containers, and these containers in turn may for example be plastic bottles, glass bottles, cans, pouches or the like.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the wrapping device may also have lateral guide elements, which are preferably wrapped up as well. After the wrapping, the container compilations may also be pulled off from these lateral guide elements.

Advantageously, these lateral guide elements, which may for example be implemented in the shape of rods, extend in the transport direction of the piece goods. Further, it would also be conceivable for such lateral guide elements to extend continuously both through the first wrapping device and through the further wrapping device. In this context, preferably also two such lateral guide elements may be present, each of which delimit the article flow at the sides. It is again pointed out here that during normal operation, preferably only one of these two wrapping devices works or wraps the pieced good compilation up.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the apparatus includes a cutting or separating unit that is suitable and intended for separating the film element in specified regions. In this way, the initially endlessly wrapped piece goods may be portioned, so that in each case for example bundles of four, six or eight containers are separated off. Advantageously, this separation element is here designed in such a way that it separates the piece goods compilations in predefined positions, in particular between two containers.

To this end it would be possible for the cutting element to move together with the piece goods compilation. In particular, a movement of the cutting element in the transport direction of the piece goods compilations is at least at times synchronised with a movement of this piece goods compilation, so that in this way a rectilinear cut is possible even during continuous operation. However, also a cycled operation would be conceivable, during which the piece goods compilation is stationary, whilst the cutting element carries out a corresponding cut of the film element. In an advantageous embodiment, the separation element moves along a sawtooth-shaped movement path. It is conceivable here for the separation element to be initially synchronously moved together with the piece goods compilation and, once the cut has been carried out, to be quickly returned into its initial position.

Advantageously, the wrapping device wraps the piece goods compilation in a direction that extends around the transport direction of the piece good compilation. In a further advantageous embodiment, the transport direction is a rectilinear transport direction. In particular, it is a horizontal transport direction. Advantageously, the wrapping device wraps the containers or the article stream up in a helical and/or spiral way and in particular in a circulation direction around the transport direction of the piece goods. However, it would here also be conceivable for the wrapping direction to be orientated obliquely to the transport direction.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the transport device has at least one transport belt or a transport chain. In a further advantageous embodiment, the transport device may include a plurality of transport devices that transport the piece goods in sections. Thus for example, a first transport device may feed the piece goods to a first wrapping device, a further transport device may feed the piece goods from the first wrapping device to a second or further wrapping device, and a further transport device may feed the piece goods already wrapped to a separation or cutting unit. Preferably here, the transport speeds of these transport devices are at least partially synchronised with each other and/or matched to each other.

Advantageously, the at least one separation element is provided downstream in relation to both wrapping devices.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the apparatus includes a sensor device that detects an occupancy state of the film element within at least one wrapping device. In this way, for example the movement condition of a film roll can be detected. As soon as for example this film roll reaches a certain limit occupancy state, the user may be notified about an imminent change of the film roll. It would also be conceivable that, as soon as a certain occupancy state of a film roll is reached, another wrapping device, for example a further wrapping device, is put in operation. In this way, a seamless transition during ongoing operation may be possible, and once a change has been carried out, it is possible to switch back to the first wrapping device. It would also be possible, once a film roll is empty, to change initially over (automatically) to another wrapping device.

The sensor device may for example be a sensor unit that works in a contactless manner while detecting an occupancy state of the film rolls. This may also for example be a weight detection unit that detects for example the weight of a film roll and thus indirectly a filling state. Apart from that, markings may be applied to the film element itself, which indicate for example an imminent end of a film roll. Such markings may in particular be optically read out.

In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one dispensing unit includes a reception device in particular for a rotational reception of a film roll. Thus, for example, the dispenser unit may include at least one roll carrier onto which for example a film roll can be pushed. During operation, this film roll can rotate and thus wind off the film element.

In a further advantageous embodiment, this reception device of at least one dispensing unit may be accessible during ongoing operation of the apparatus, in order to replace one film roll with a further film roll. It is possible here for this reception device to be moved into a certain position for a roll change, in which a change can be easily carried out by the user. Thus for example a housing of the system may include a lateral opening. For the changeover, it may be possible to move a roll carrier to this opening so as to present a new film roll. This may here preferably be carried out automatically and in particular also during ongoing operation.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the apparatus includes a changeover device that allows an at least partially automated changeover of film carriers for loading the wrapping devices. Apart from the term film carrier, also the term film roll will be used below, and it is pointed out that the carrier does generally not necessarily have to be a roll.

In this embodiment it is therefore proposed to provide a changeover device and in particular a changeover robot, which allow a changeover in particular of film rolls. In this way, a changeover process, in particular also during ongoing operation, can be carried out at least semi-automatically, preferably also fully automatically. Preferably, this changeover device has a gripping device located on a movement device for gripping and/or moving the film carriers or the film rolls. This movement device may in particular be a robot that allows a substantially free movement in space of film carriers. This movement device may here have a plurality of arms connected together in an articulated manner, which in this way allow pivoting about a plurality of axes. Advantageously, the gripping device of the movement device can be pivoted about at least two and particularly preferably about at least three axes. Advantageously, these axes extend perpendicularly relative to each other. Further, the changeover device itself may include an in particular stationary carrier that is placed in the region of the apparatus.

The gripping device may be a gripping device that allows a film roll to be gripped from the inside. These film rolls usually have a tubular cavity on the inside thereof, into which the gripping device can engage. In a further advantageous embodiment, this gripping device has a detection device that can detect the presence of a label roll on the gripping device and/or can identify a film roll.

Advantageously, this detection device may also be suitable and intended for detecting the parameters of the film, such as for example material characteristics and the like. In addition, this detection device may also ensure that the film roll is seated on the gripping device so as to conform with the rotational direction, so as to be inserted, also as per the rotation direction, in the apparatus or in the wrapping device.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the apparatus also includes a holding device for temporarily holding and/or carrying film rolls. It is possible here for such film rolls to be placed on a support device by a robot device or a user. A detection device can in this condition detect the data of the film element and can for example also check the correct orientation in terms of a rotational direction. Subsequently, the film roll with the changeover device can be inserted into the machine.

It is thus for example possible for a robot to receive the film rolls and to place them on the carrier for inspection. In this context it is both conceivable that the rolls are directly placed in the machine or are buffered, for example on a pallet, on a further storage device. In a further advantageous embodiment, the gripping device has a spreading element that can in particular be spread apart on the inside of a film roll so as to engage in the film roll. In a further advantageous embodiment, the apparatus also has a reception container for used film rolls.

It is also possible here for a film of a further film carrier to immediately follow on from the film of a film carrier that has run empty.

In a further advantageous embodiment, a further wrapping device directly follows on from the first wrapping device in the transport direction. Thus, it is for example possible for the containers to be wrapped selectively by the first wrapping device or by the second wrapping device and to be transported by the same transport device, in particular by a push transport device, through both, i.e. both the first and the second wrapping device.

Preferably, it would also be possible here for the first and the further wrapping device to be abutting directly against each other, for example in such a way that any elements such as drives are mounted in such a way that a distance between the two wrapping devices is not increased.

It would here also be possible for the dispensing unit of the first wrapping device and the dispensing device of the further wrapping device to be placed opposite each other in relation to the transport path of the containers. In this way, the development of any imbalances may be counteracted.

In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one wrapping device has an annular carrier on which the dispensing unit is placed. Advantageously here, this annular carrier is rotationally supported. Advantageously, this annular carrier is rotationally supported with regard to a constant rotary axis. Preferably here, this carrier is rotatable in relation to a rotary axis that extends parallel to the transport direction of the piece goods. However, it would also be conceivable here for a rotary axis of this carrier to extend obliquely to the transport direction of the piece goods. Advantageously, the apparatus has a drive device that drives this rotatable carrier. Preferably here, this driving operation may be carried out via a contact with an external circumference of this annular carrier. Thus for example, the annular carrier may be supported on a plurality of wheels, with at least one of these wheels being driven by the drive unit.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the transport device has a feed device that feeds the piece goods in a working operation towards at least one of the wrapping devices. It is thus possible for the transport device to push the piece goods compilations onto the above-mentioned rigid carrier, where a continuous wrapping operation is carried out. Advantageously, as a result of a combination of this feed movement of the piece goods compilations and the wrapping operation, an altogether spirally shaped wrapping of the piece goods is carried out.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the apparatus has a second wrapping device which can be operated in a working operation of the apparatus at least temporarily at the same time as the first wrapping device. Thus for example, the piece goods compilations may be wrapped during operation by two wrapping devices following on from each other in particular in the transport direction of the piece goods compilations. As a result, the further wrapping device is preferably provided here as well and is supposed to be put into operation in particular during a changeover operation as a replacement for at least the first or the second wrapping device. It is conceivable here for the apparatus to have just one further wrapping device and for the film carriers to be preferably loaded in such a way that the film carriers of the first and the second wrapping devices will not run empty at the same time. In this way, the further wrapping device can replace, depending on the occupancy state of the film rolls, the first or the second wrapping device during ongoing operation.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the second wrapping device is designed in such a way that the piece goods are wrapped by the first wrapping device and by the second wrapping device in opposite directions. In this way, a cross winding may be produced. Advantageously here, the film elements are here wound up in a helical manner both with the first and with the second wrapping device, however, the respective film elements are here wound up by the two wrapping devices in a crosswise manner relative to each other. In this way, a higher stability of the end product can be achieved.

Advantageously, at least one wrapping device is suitable and designed in such a way that the dispensing unit is guided in two opposite wrapping devices around the piece goods compilations. It is thus for example possible for the first wrapping device to wrap the piece goods compilations in a first circulation direction and for the second wrapping device to wrap the piece goods compilations in a second (in particular opposite) circulation direction. The further wrapping device may be operated, depending on which of the first and second wrapping devices has to be reloaded, in the corresponding opposite circulation direction.

However, it would also be conceivable for both a first and a second wrapping device, which are suitable and designed to run at the same time during operation, to have associated therewith in each case a further wrapping device, which takes over their work in particular in case the film carriers run empty.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the apparatus comprises a drive device for generating the circulation movement both of the dispensing unit of the first wrapping device and the dispensing unit of the second wrapping device. This means that both the rotary movement of the dispensing unit of the first wrapping device and the circulation movement of the dispensing unit of the second wrapping device are driven by the same drive. It is conceivable here that in the case of a changeover of the film carriers, one of the two wrapping devices is decoupled so as to enable the film carrier to be replaced in an idle condition. Advantageously, the drive device for driving the wrapping devices is an electric motor.

As mentioned above, advantageously at least one of the wrapping devices can be moved in both circumferential directions. To this end, it may be required or advantageous if not only the rotary direction is changed, but also the position of a dispensing unit in relation to the product flow. Preferably here, two different positions are conceivable which are respectively optimised in relation to one wrapping direction. Advantageously, the first and the further wrapping devices are at times synchronised to each other in their movement. Preferably however, this synchronisation may be cancelled for carrying out a changeover process.

In a further preferred embodiment, the apparatus includes a gear drive for driving the wrapping devices or the dispensing units.

Further it would also be possible for at least one of the wrapping devices to be displaceable along the transport directions of the containers. Thus, for example, for changing the label carriers, the entire wrapping device may be disengaged from a drive device, so as to be able to replace the film rolls in an idle condition.

The present invention is further directed to a method for packaging piece goods compilations, wherein a transport device transports a plurality of piece goods in a specified transport direction and wherein a first wrapping device wraps the piece goods up with a film element, which first wrapping device includes a dispensing unit with a dispensing element circulating around the piece goods, and the piece goods are fed to the first wrapping device so as to be wrapped up with the film element.

According to the invention, the apparatus has a further wrapping device which also at times wraps the piece goods up with a film element, and this further wrapping device has a dispensing unit with a dispensing element circulating around, and the piece goods are fed to the first wrapping device so as to be wrapped up with the film element, and wherein during working operation of the apparatus, the first wrapping device and the second wrapping device are selectively used in order to wrap up the piece goods.

Advantageously, at least at times one wrapping device is operated, whilst the other one is idle. In particular, at least at times one wrapping device is operated whilst on the other wrapping device film elements and in particular a roll of film elements are/is replaced.

In a further preferred method, the piece goods are wrapped up by at least two wrapping devices. In particular here, the wrapping operation is carried out with both wrapping devices at the same time. Thus, during working operation, two film elements are applied to the product flow or to the containers. Advantageously here, these film elements are applied by the two wrapping devices in opposite directions. In this context, the first wrapping device may for example apply the film element in a clockwise rotation and the second wrapping device may apply it in a counter-clockwise rotation.

Advantageously, the film elements are applied by the wrapping devices to the product flow or the containers in a helical or spiral manner.

In a further preferred method, a changeover of film element carriers from the respective wrapping devices is carried out at least semi-automatically by means of a changeover device. It is thus possible for a changeover device, such as for example a changeover robot, to take empty rolls out of the wrapping device and to supply fully loaded rolls. Advantageously here, these film rolls are inserted into the respective wrapping devices with a certain rotary direction.

Further advantages and embodiments will result from the attached drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of an apparatus for wrapping up bundles;

FIG. 2 shows a further view of an apparatus for wrapping up bundles;

FIG. 3 shows a view of an apparatus for wrapping up bundles with a first and further wrapping devices;

FIG. 4 shows a further embodiment of an apparatus for wrapping up bundles;

FIG. 5 shows a further embodiment of an apparatus for wrapping up bundles;

FIG. 6 shows a schematic view of a wrapping device;

FIG. 7 shows a view of a changeover device for changing film rolls;

FIG. 8 shows a detailed view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 shows a view of a film roll on a carrier;

FIG. 10a-c show three views of a film roll resting on a carrier; and

FIG. 11 shows an overall view of an apparatus with a changeover device.

FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of a section of a packaging machine or an apparatus 50 according to the invention. Here, containers 1 are supplied as articles or a piece stream S. Reference numeral 3 relates to a transport device that transports the containers or piece goods along the transport direction T. The transport device is here preferably made up of a plurality of transport units which may also be arranged between the individual wrapping devices 2 and 6 and thereafter. In the apparatus shown in FIG. 1, the articles are supplied as a dual-lane infeed flow by means of the first conveyor device. This feeding device may for example be a conveyor belt, a mat chain conveyor or the like.

Reference numeral 2 identifies a first wrapping device that is used for wrapping up the containers with at least one layer of stretchable film, a so-called stretch film. This film element is here preferably wrapped in a helical manner per se known onto the articles or containers which are here conveyed in a pairwise manner next to each other, wherein sufficient tension of the film element ensures a firm mechanical coherence of the article or piece goods stream.

In order to ensure a trouble-free transport of the article or piece goods stream in the first wrapping device 2, for example circulating forward feed belts (not shown) may for example laterally engage on the article or piece goods stream S, which convey the containers through the first wrapping device 2, whilst the containers 1 are wrapped up at the same time.

In the first wrapping device 2, the containers may for example slide on a bottom sliding plate (not shown), which is also wrapped up.

Reference numeral 60 relates to a first forward feed module located downstream of the first wrapping device, which is used for the onward transport of the article or piece goods stream already wrapped up with at least one layer of stretch film (typically by means of upper and lower forward feed belts). These forward feed belts may here circulate endlessly over the length of the first forward feed modules on the top and bottom sides of the article or piece goods stream and may ensure the onward transport thereof to a second wrapping device 6.

In the second wrapping device 6, also a second layer of film elements may be applied in a helical manner onto the article or piece goods stream, which is preferably carried out at a different wrapping angle to the first wrapping device 2 and/or in an opposite wrapping direction (i.e. circulation direction).

Reference numeral 61 relates to a further forward feed module and is used for the onward transport of the article and piece goods stream that is now wrapped up in several layers of stretch film. To this end, too, upper and lower forward feed belts may again be used which circulate preferably endlessly over the length of the second forward feed module 61 at the top and bottom sides of the article or piece goods stream and effect the onward transport thereof. As a result of this transport, a film packaging wrapped up in a helical manner in several layers of film elements and initially moving endlessly in the conveying direction with containers 1 packaged therein is formed, and subsequently, the levels that are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and to the conveying device may be selectively provided with perforations, and/or packagings between consecutive containers or container pairs or groups of several conveyed containers are severed. Correspondingly, reference numerals 62 and 64 relate to cutting units or separation units used for separating the film elements. Here, these two cutting units 62, 64 may be redundantly present in order to effect higher throughput rates.

Reference numeral 66 identifies a discharge unit that discharges the bundles 1 thus created.

FIG. 2 shows a lateral view of a corresponding apparatus for wrapping up bundles. Here, the containers 1 as well as the sliding plate or carrier 32 are again shown, onto which the plastic containers 1 are pushed. Reference numeral 34 identifies lateral guide elements that are used for the lateral guiding of the containers or the piece goods compilations.

Reference numerals 63 and 65 identify transport devices which here withdraw the containers already wrapped up from the first wrapping device 2. Reference numeral 72 identifies in a schematic way a cutting or separating element that cuts the film element, which in the course of this moves in a vertical direction P1.

Reference numeral 6 again identifies the second wrapping device, and here again the containers already bundled may be wrapped up. Reference numerals 76 and 78 identify two further transport devices which are again intended for withdrawing the bundles from the second wrapping device 6. Reference numeral 79 identifies a second cutting element which is also used for cutting the film element.

Reference numeral 82 identifies a transport unit for carrying away the individual bundles that have now been cut.

FIG. 3 shows a further view of a wrapping device according to the invention. This shows, apart from the two first and second wrapping devices 2 and 6, also further wrapping devices 4 and 8, respectively. These two further wrapping devices 4 and 8 are used to enable the operation for example during a roll change of the first and second wrapping devices to be continued. FIG. 3 shows here two possible approaches. In the approach shown in the left-hand part of the figure, transport devices 63 and 65 are again provided between the first wrapping device 2 and the further wrapping device 4, which transport the containers forward. Also, both the first and the further wrapping devices have a sliding plate (carrier) 32 as well as lateral guide elements 34. The further wrapping device 4 may here be used alternatively with the first wrapping device 2. In the case of the second and further wrapping devices 6 and 8 shown on the right, these are arranged directly next to each other. A continuous sliding plate (carrier) 32 is also provided here, which may however also be implemented as a conveyor device. During operation, preferably one of the two wrapping devices 6 and 8 may be idle, whilst the second one applies wrappings.

Reference numerals 63 and 65 in turn identify a conveyor unit that withdraws the bundles from the wrapping devices 6 and 8.

Again, separation elements are provided which are used for separating the bundles or the film elements that wrap them up.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, again first and second wrapping devices 2 and 6 as well as further wrapping devices 4 and 8 respectively associated therewith are provided. In these views, too, the first wrapping device 2 as well as the further wrapping device 4 on the one hand and the second wrapping device 6 as well as the further wrapping device 8 are located together or one immediately behind the other.

In a further embodiment (not shown) it would also be possible for a first wrapping device 2 as well as a second wrapping device 6 as well as a further wrapping device 4 to be provided. Here, this further wrapping device 4 may be located in the transport direction T between the first wrapping device 2 and the second wrapping device 6. Once a roll is empty, this further wrapping device can selectively take over the operation of the first wrapping device 2 or of the second wrapping device 6.

FIG. 5 shows a further schematic view of an apparatus according to the invention. In this apparatus, three wrapping devices 2, 4, 6 are shown here. In addition, however, further wrapping devices may follow in particular on the right-hand side. Between these individual wrapping devices, in each case transport or conveyor devices 63, 65 are shown. These may in particular be forward feed devices that withdraw the containers for example from the wrapping devices 2, 4. Reference numeral 15 identifies a film roll. The wrapping device 4 may here be used when a film roll is to be replaced on the first wrapping device 2 or the second wrapping device 6. To this end, at least the further wrapping device 4 is suitable and intended to be operated in different circulation directions.

FIG. 6 shows a schematic view of a wrapping device. This has an annular carrier generally identified with 25, which is here rotatable along the arrow P2 in the corresponding rotational direction. On this carrier, a dispensing unit 30 is provided, which is shown schematically and only as a whole. This has a dispensing element or a reception device 31, on which a roll 15, which is only schematically shown, with a film element 12 that can be wound off therefrom is provided for example in a rotational manner. This film element 12 is used for wrapping up the piece goods compilation 10. Here again the carrier 32 is shown, which is also wrapped up, as well as the lateral guide elements 34. After the wrapping, as shown above, the piece goods compilation 10 is pulled off from the carrier 32 and the lateral guide elements 34.

Reference numerals 92 and 94 identify wheels that are used for storing the circulating carrier 25. It is possible here for just one of these wheels to be driven as well.

As mentioned, it is preferably also possible for the carrier 25 to be moved in two different directions of rotation. It is also preferably possible for the carrier roll with the film element to be mounted on its rotatable carrier 31 in two ways on the left-hand or the right-hand side, in order to control the wrapping direction correspondingly.

Advantageously, a rotary speed of the carrier 25 is synchronised with a forward feed speed of the piece goods compilations 10.

FIG. 7 shows a schematic view of a changeover device 100 for changing film rolls 15. This changeover device 100 has a gripping device 102 that can grip the film roll 15 for a changeover operation. Advantageously here, this gripping device 102 has an internal gripper that can be pushed into an opening 115 (cf. FIG. 8) of the film roll 15. This gripping device is here provided on a pivotable arm 108. This pivotable arm 108 in turn is located on a further, also pivotable arm 104 via a joint 106. Reference numeral 110 identifies a main carrier of the changeover device. As a result of the plurality of joints shown here, in particular a pivoting motion of the gripping unit about a plurality of axes is possible, here in particular about at least three axes which are in particular perpendicular to each other. In this way, the film roll 15 can be positioned in any desired way in a certain working area.

Reference numeral 120 identifies a detection device that can detect for example data of the film roll 15, such as for example a film material or an occupancy state or the like.

FIG. 8 shows a detailed view of a changeover device 100. Here again, the arm 108 can be seen, on which the gripping device 102 is provided. As a result of the degrees of freedom, the film rolls 15 can be engaged by their openings 115 and can in this way for example be lifted off from a pallet.

FIG. 9 shows a view of a film roll 15 provided on a carrier 140. This film roll has here a marking 128 that shows a wind-off direction. In addition, further markings 127, 129 may be provided, which allow an optical detection device to ensure an accurate alignment of the film roll. Reference numeral 126 schematically identifies (not shown in more detail) a further marking, from which for example properties of the label roll, such as a material, may be read. For example, a barcode, a QR code or the like may be located here. Reference numeral 122 identifies lateral guide elements, which may for example also be adapted to a width of the film roll 15.

FIGS. 10a to 10c show further views of the film roll 15 provided on the carrier 140. Here, too, lateral guides 122 can be seen. Reference numeral 142 identifies a top edge of the carrier, which ultimately limits the receptacle for receiving the label roll.

FIG. 11 shows a further overall view of an apparatus according to the invention with a changeover device 100. A user B can here carry out this changeover semi-automatically or manually, but ultimately this changeover device 100 is advantageously used for receiving the individual film rolls 15 and for feeding them to the overall apparatus 1. Reference sign A identifies an action radius of the changeover device. It is also possible here for the changeover device 100 to load film rolls onto several wrapping devices. It would also be possible here for the changeover device 100 to be displaceable in the transport direction T in order to change film rolls in different places of the apparatus 1. Reference numeral 152 identifies a reception container for empty rolls.

Reference numeral 142 identifies an optical detection device in order to identify for example film rolls 15. This optical detection device 142 may also be used for detecting a position of the changeover device or of individual film rolls. Reference numeral 144 identifies a control device, by means of which the changeover device can be controlled. Via an input device 146, a user can for example input data, such as data that is characteristic for a product change.

The applicant reserves the right to claim all of the features disclosed in the application documents as being essential to the invention, in as far as they are novel over the prior art either individually or in combination. It is further pointed out that also features were described in the individual figures which may be advantageous by themselves. A person skilled in the art will immediately recognise that a certain feature described in a figure may also be advantageous without taking over further features from this figure. A person skilled in the art will further recognise that advantages may result also from a combination of several features shown in individual or in different figures.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

• 1 Containers
• 2 First wrapping device
• 3 Transport device
• 4 Further wrapping device
• 6 Second wrapping device
• 8 Further wrapping device
• 10 Piece goods compilation
• 12 Film element
• 14 Article or piece goods stream/film element
• 15 Film roll
• 25 Circulating (annular) carrier
• 30 Dispensing unit
• 31 Dispensing element/reception device
• 32 Sliding plate/carrier
• 34 Lateral guide elements
• 50 Apparatus
• 60 First forward feed module
• 61 Further forward feed module
• 62, 64 Cutting or separating unit
• 63, 65 Transport device/conveyor unit
• 66 Discharge device
• 72, 79 Cutting or separating element
• 76, 78 Further transport device
• 82 Transport unit
• 92, 94 Wheels
• 100 Changeover device
• 102 Gripping device
• 106 Joint
• 108 Pivotable arm
• 110 Main carrier
• 115 Opening
• 120 Detection device
• 122 Lateral guide
• 128 Marking
• 126, 127, 129 Further markings
• 140 Carrier
• 144 Control device
• 146 Input device
• 152 Reception container
• P1 Vertical direction
• P2 Direction of rotation
• S Article or piece goods stream
• T Transport direction
• B User

Claims

1: An apparatus for packaging piece goods compilations with a transport device that transports a plurality of piece goods in a specified transport direction, comprising a first wrapping device that is suitable and intended for wrapping piece goods with a film element, which first wrapping device has a dispensing unit with a dispensing element circulating around the piece goods, wherein the piece goods can be fed to the first wrapping device so as to be wrapped up with the film element,

wherein

the apparatus comprises a further wrapping device that is suitable and intended for wrapping up the piece goods with a film element, wherein said further wrapping device has a dispensing unit with a dispensing element circulating around the piece goods, wherein the piece goods can be fed to the first wrapping device so as to be wrapped up with the film element, and wherein during working operation of the apparatus, the first wrapping device and the further wrapping device can be selectively used for wrapping up the piece goods.

2: The apparatus as claimed in claim 1,

wherein

at least one dispensing unit has a reception device in particular for rotationally receiving a film roll.

3: The apparatus as claimed in claim 2,

wherein

the reception device of at least one dispensing unit is accessible during on-going operation of the apparatus for replacing a film roll with a further film roll.

4: The apparatus as claimed in claim 1,

wherein

the apparatus has a changeover device that allows an at least partially automated changeover of film carriers for loading the wrapping devices.

5: The apparatus as claimed in claim 4,

wherein

the changeover device has a gripping device located on a movement device for gripping and/or moving the film carriers.

6: The apparatus as claimed in claim 1,

wherein

the further wrapping device immediately follows the first wrapping device in the transport direction.

7: The apparatus as claimed in claim 1,

wherein

at least one wrapping device has an annular carrier on which the dispensing unit is provided.

8: The apparatus as claimed in claim 1,

wherein

the transport device has a forward feed device that pushes the piece goods into a working area of at least one of the wrapping devices.

9: The apparatus as claimed in claim 1,

wherein

the apparatus has a second wrapping device that can be operated in a working operation of the apparatus at least temporarily at the same time as the first wrapping device.

10: The apparatus as claimed in claim 9,

wherein

the second wrapping device is designed in such a way that the piece goods are wrapped up by the first wrapping device and the second wrapping device in opposite directions.

11: The apparatus as claimed in claim 9,

wherein

the apparatus has a second further wrapping device, wherein during working operation of the apparatus, the second wrapping device and the second further wrapping device can be selectively used for wrapping up the piece goods.

12: The apparatus as claimed in claim 1,

wherein

the apparatus has a drive device for generating the circulation movement of both the dispensing unit of the first wrapping device and the dispensing unit of the further wrapping device.

13: A method for packaging piece goods compilations, wherein the apparatus has a further wrapping device that at times also wraps up the piece goods with a film element, wherein the first wrapping device has a dispensing unit with a dispensing element that circulates around the piece goods, wherein the piece goods are fed to the first wrapping device so as to be wrapped up with the film element, and wherein during working operation of the apparatus, the first wrapping device and a further wrapping device are selectively used for wrapping up the piece goods.

wherein a transport device transports a plurality of piece goods in a specified transport direction, and wherein a first wrapping device wraps up piece goods with a film element, wherein said first wrapping device comprises a dispensing unit with a dispensing element circulating around the piece goods, wherein the piece goods are fed to the first wrapping device so as to be wrapped up with the film element,

14: The method as claimed in claim 13,

wherein

the piece goods are wrapped up by at least two wrapping devices, wherein the wrapping operation is in particular carried out at the same time using at least these two wrapping devices.

15: The method as claimed in claim 13,

wherein

a changeover of film carriers is carried out at least partially automatically by a changeover device.

16: The method as claimed in claim 13,

wherein

at least at times one wrapping device is operated, whilst another wrapping device is idle.

17: The method as claimed in claim 16,

wherein

in the other wrapping device, at least one film roll is replaced.

18: The method as claimed in claim 16,

wherein

the film elements are applied by at least one wrapping device in a helical or spiral form onto the product stream.

19: The method as claimed in claim 16,

wherein

the piece goods are pushed by at least one forward feed device into the working region of at least one wrapping device.