ES3043257T3 - Method for packaging articles - Google Patents

Abstract

A packaging device (1) for items such as beverage containers or the like is described. The packaging device (1) comprises at least one conveying device (3) for items and at least one manipulator. The items can be moved to a working area of the manipulator by means of the conveying device. It is provided that, as part of a first packaging process, the manipulator can apply an outer packaging from above onto the items being moved to its working area and/or, as part of the first packaging process, place the items onto an outer packaging from above. Furthermore, a second packaging process is provided for the packaging device (1), comprising the lateral insertion of the items into an outer packaging, a process not provided for in the first packaging process.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0003] Method of packaging items

[0005] The present invention relates to a method for packaging articles.

[0007] A wide variety of packaging types exist for processing, assembling, grouping, and packaging items such as beverage containers or cans. PET containers, widely used today as beverage containers, have relatively thin walls and are not completely dimensionally stable, even when filled. For this reason, and to optimize logistics management, a wide variety of packaging is used to group individual containers. For example, containers can be grouped together on a sheet of cardboard with the edges folded upward. These sheets of cardboard are called trays. Together with their respective trays, the individual containers can form a packaging unit. To simplify the transport of individual packaging units, these units are often combined to form a larger packaging unit.

[0009] For example, beverage containers can be placed on a tray inside a cardboard box, the box closed, and then transported to their destination. Alternatively, the beverage containers can be placed directly into the cardboard box without first placing them on a tray. Some packaging methods involve removing the beverage containers from the top. Other methods involve placing multiple beverage containers on top of each other, holding them securely in place. The containers must then be pulled out of the outer packaging. In short, there are numerous ways to combine multiple beverage containers using outer packaging.

[0011] To handle beverage containers with outer packaging in a way that meets customer requirements, outer packaging with a side opening for removing the beverage containers is also available. Creating packaging units with such outer packaging requires special packaging devices, which may need to be purchased in addition to an existing packaging device. Besides the financial outlay associated with acquiring these additional packaging devices, they also require installation space or an area that is often unavailable in practice.

[0013] US Patent 5660 026 A describes a method and apparatus for providing a container display case. This display case, for one or more series of beverage containers, consists of a housing, a base tray, and a fastening system, such as shrink film.

[0015] Document DE 102014201 967 A1 describes a device and a method for extracting containers from a tray. The device comprises the following elements: a transport means that allows the movement of a tray or at least one tablet. The containers are arranged in the tray. At least one fastening means is provided for securing the containers. Relative movement occurs between the containers and the tray. At least one means is provided for generating relative movement between the tray and the fixed containers, in particular a transfer unit.

[0017] Document DE 102009026220 A1 describes a method and device for grouping and combining articles. Two or more articles are combined into a packaging unit by applying a first packaging material, such as a cardboard staple, a plastic staple, a band, or preformed pieces. Subsequently, several packaging units are combined into a larger unit with a second additional packaging material during a continuous transport movement, with or without repositioning of the respective unit. The second packaging material can be cardboard transport packaging, shrink film, or a preformed piece.

[0018] A machine for packing articles with cardboard boxes is known from document US 2012/0096808 A1. Articles previously packed in primary packaging are subsequently wrapped in secondary or final packaging. Optionally, the orientation of the primary packaging can be changed before or during its insertion into the secondary or final packaging.

[0020] Given the limited variability of prior art methods and machines for certain packaging tasks, a primary objective of the invention is to provide a way to supply items with various outer packagings as required, easily and flexibly, reducing costs and effort. Furthermore, this should also be possible in confined spaces.

[0022] These objectives are achieved by a method having the characteristics of independent claim 1.

[0024] In this way, the at least one manipulator responsible for applying a corresponding outer packaging from above onto the items that have been moved into its detection zone or for placing items onto a corresponding outer packaging from above in the first packaging process may remain in the packaging device as a structurally integrated component of the packaging device during a corresponding reconversion from the first packaging process to the second packaging process and/or during a corresponding reconversion to carry out the second packaging process.

[0026] In the first packaging process, at least one manipulator, designed as a structurally integrated component of the packaging device, may be configured to place items onto the corresponding outer packaging from above. Furthermore, at least one manipulator, designed as a structurally integrated component of the packaging device, may be configured to insert items laterally into the corresponding outer packaging during the second packaging process. During the conversion, the second working tool may be arranged on or provided by the at least one manipulator, so that the at least one manipulator can insert items laterally into the corresponding outer packaging using the second working tool during the second packaging process. In possible embodiments, the first working tool may remain on the at least one manipulator and, if necessary, be adapted or modified for the temporary reception of items for the second packaging process. In other feasible embodiments, the first working tool may be removed from the manipulator during the conversion and replaced by the second working tool. The second working tool may also have clamping or gripping elements for the temporary reception of multiple items. It is also possible that, during the conversion, at least one manipulator independently moves the first working tool to a standby position and/or a storage area and receives the second working tool from a standby position and/or the storage area. Therefore, the packaging device may be converted, at least partially, automatically.

[0028] There have also been successful embodiments in which at least one transport device remains in the packaging device as a structurally integrated component of the packaging device during a corresponding change from the first packaging process to the second packaging process and/or during a respective reconversion to carry out the second packaging process.

[0030] The at least one transport device may be designed such that, as a structurally integrated component of the packaging device, it can move items to the working area of the at least one manipulator during both the first and second packaging processes. Therefore, this specific at least one transport device may be designed as a structurally integrated component of the packaging device during both the first and second packaging processes. Thus, the at least one transport device, or this at least one transport device, may be provided in the first and second packaging processes for the respective movement of items to the working area of a manipulator intended for the first and second packaging processes. Therefore, it is conceivable that the at least one transport device, or this at least one transport device, is not affected by any modifications to the packaging device.

[0032] It is also conceivable that the packaging device includes at least one horizontal conveyor, designed to move the outer packaging during both the first and second packaging processes, this at least one horizontal conveyor remaining in the packaging device as a structurally integrated component during the changeover from the first to the second packaging process and/or during the reconversion to carry out the second packaging process. The transport direction of the at least one conveyor and the transport direction of the at least one horizontal conveyor may be parallel.

[0034] Therefore, this at least one specific horizontal conveyor can be configured as a structurally integrated component of the packaging device, both during the first and second packaging processes. Thus, the at least one horizontal conveyor, or this at least one horizontal conveyor, can be configured to move outer packagings in both the first and second packaging processes.

[0036] Since, in practice, the outer packagings intended for the first and second packaging processes may differ in their dimensions, embodiments have proven useful in which the at least one horizontal conveyor is preferably designed so that the track width, perpendicular to its transport direction, can be flexibly adapted to the outer packaging being moved in the respective packaging process. For this purpose, the at least one horizontal conveyor may have at least two adjacent conveyor units, each driven by an actuator, and whose relative distance, perpendicular to the transport direction of the at least one horizontal conveyor, can be adjusted according to the respective packaging process. In particular, embodiments have proven useful in which the at least one horizontal conveyor comprises at least one actuator and/or in which the at least one horizontal conveyor is assigned at least one actuator that can adjust the track width or the relative distance between the at least two adjacent conveyor units. The actuator may be connected to a control unit. At the request of the control unit and, if necessary, by means of a user instruction containing information about the respective packaging process to be carried out, the actuator can, if necessary, independently adjust the track width of at least one horizontal conveyor or the relative separation of at least two adjacent conveyor units from each other.

[0038] Furthermore, the at least one horizontal conveyor can be configured to receive and releasably move various fastening means, provided in the second packaging process, for holding the tabs and/or sides of the outer packaging in an upright position. In particular, the at least one horizontal conveyor can be configured so that the fastening means, provided for holding the tabs and/or sides of the outer packaging in an upright position, can be releasably attached to the at least one horizontal conveyor at different positions or relative distances.

[0040] In addition, the packaging device may include a first storage compartment designed to hold several outer packagings adapted to or prepared for the first packaging process. The packaging device may also include a second storage compartment designed to hold several additional outer packagings adapted to or prepared for the second packaging process. Furthermore, the packaging device may include at least one integrated handling device that remains structurally integrated into the packaging device during the changeover from the first packaging process to the second packaging process and/or during the conversion to perform the second packaging process.

[0042] It is possible that at least one handling device structurally integrated into the packaging device as a fixed component is designed to assemble the plurality of outer packagings adapted to the first packaging process or prepared for the first packaging process and to assemble the plurality of outer packagings adapted to the second packaging process or prepared for the second packaging process and/or can be converted to assemble the plurality of outer packagings adapted to the first packaging process or prepared for the first packaging process and to assemble the plurality of outer packagings adapted to the second packaging process or prepared for the second packaging process.

[0043] The packaging device may also include a driverless conveyor system that automatically provides at least one handling device integrated as a structural component of the packaging device with a first or second storage compartment containing a plurality of outer packagings adapted to the respective packaging process or prepared for the corresponding packaging process, depending on whether the first or second packaging process is to be performed. The driverless conveyor system may be designed so that it replaces the corresponding first or second storage compartment with a new corresponding first or second storage compartment when the number of outer packagings contained in that compartment is exhausted.

[0045] In addition, the packaging device may include a gripping unit designed to fold the top flaps of several outer packagings and deposit the outer packagings, along with the items inserted into another outer packaging. The gripping unit may be designed to be arranged on an integrated manipulator as an integral part of the packaging device during the conversion process. Alternatively, the packaging device may be designed to be supplemented by a manipulator with a gripping unit to perform the second packaging process, the gripping unit being designed to fold the top flaps of several outer packagings and deposit the outer packagings, along with the items inserted into another outer packaging.

[0047] It is also possible that the packaging device is designed to be supplemented by several folding rails for folding and/or securing tabs, or that it has attachment positions for several folding rails intended for folding and/or securing tabs. In particular, these folding rails for folding and/or securing tabs may be positioned along the at least one horizontal conveyor described above. This at least one horizontal conveyor may be intended or configured to move the corresponding outer packaging in both the first and second packaging processes.

[0049] Furthermore, the packaging device can be configured so that, during the conversion to the second packaging process, it is supplemented by a transfer table on which the items are placed for lateral insertion into the corresponding outer packaging. In particular, the packaging device can provide a working position for arranging or supplementing the transfer table, which is positioned laterally alongside at least one horizontal conveyor. An item placement plane, formed by the transfer table, and a transport plane for the outer packaging, provided by the at least one horizontal conveyor, can be located at virtually the same vertical height.

[0050] The invention relates to a method for packaging articles such as beverage containers or the like. The features already described for various embodiments of the packaging device can also be included in the method described below and will not be repeated.

[0052] In the method according to the invention, a first packaging process is carried out in or by means of a packaging device, in which first packaging process a respective outer packaging is applied to the articles from above and/or the articles are placed on a respective outer packaging from above.

[0054] According to the invention, in this packaging device, following the first packaging process, a second packaging process is carried out, the second packaging process providing a side insertion of articles into an outer packaging that is not provided for in the first packaging process.

[0056] In particular, it may be the case that the packaging device is instructed to switch from the first packaging process to the second packaging process in order to carry out the second packaging process. To carry out the second packaging process, a conversion of the packaging device adapted to the second packaging process is provided. In various embodiments, the first packaging process may be completed first, then the conversion adapted to the second packaging process is carried out on the packaging device in a timely manner, and once the conversion is completed, the packaging device carries out the second packaging process.

[0058] It is conceivable that a handling device may independently perform the reconversion of the packaging device, adapted to the second packaging process. In particular, the handling device may independently perform the reconversion adapted to the second packaging process, following instructions from a user.

[0060] It may also be the case that at least one transport device is provided, the at least one transport device remaining in the packaging device during a corresponding reconversion from the first packaging process to the second packaging process and/or during the respective reconversion work to carry out the second packaging process and provides items for packaging in both the first packaging process and the second packaging process.

[0062] It is anticipated that, in the first packaging process, the corresponding outer packaging is applied to the article from above by at least one manipulator, or that the articles are placed onto the corresponding outer packaging from above by at least one manipulator. In this case, said at least one manipulator may insert the articles laterally into the outer packaging during the second packaging process. Therefore, said at least one manipulator may remain in the packaging device during the conversion or when moving from the first packaging process to the second packaging process.

[0064] It is further provided that, in the first packaging process, the outer packaging is applied to the items from above by at least one first working tool of at least one manipulator, and/or that the items are placed onto the corresponding outer packaging from above by at least one first working tool of at least one manipulator. Following the first packaging process, a second working tool is installed on, or provided by, the at least one manipulator, and in the second packaging process, the at least one manipulator inserts the items laterally into the outer packaging using said second working tool. This at least one manipulator may remain at the packaging device during the conversion or remain at the packaging device during the changeover from the first packaging process to the second packaging process.

[0065] In the first and second packing processes, the outer packagings may also be moved by the same at least one horizontal conveyor. In this case, the track width of the at least one horizontal conveyor formed in the first packing process may preferably be adapted to the outer packagings to be moved in the second packing process. In particular, it is possible that, during the conversion, several securing means may be arranged on the at least one horizontal conveyor, holding the front and rear sides and/or the front and rear flaps of the outer packagings in a vertical position during their movement by the at least one horizontal conveyor in the second packing process. Securing means may also be arranged on the at least one horizontal conveyor during the first packing process. In this case, the securing means may be fixed at different positions or relative distances on the at least one horizontal conveyor during the second packing process, compared to the first packing process.

[0067] It is possible that, following the first packing process and before the second packing process, the track width of at least one horizontal conveyor may be adjusted to accommodate the outer packaging that will be moved during the second packing process.

[0068] In various embodiments, the packaging device can be provided with an outer packaging adapted to the first packaging process and an outer packaging adapted to the second packaging process as required via a driverless transport system.

[0070] It is also possible for the packaging device to receive an instruction to switch from the first packaging process to the second packaging process during the first packaging process and for the packaging device to switch from the first packaging process to the second packaging process during a continuous packaging operation.

[0072] The following are examples of embodiments that will explain the invention and its advantages in more detail, with reference to the accompanying figures. The size relationships of the individual elements in the figures do not always correspond to the actual size relationships, as some shapes are simplified and others are enlarged relative to other elements for better illustration.

[0074] Fig. 1 shows a schematic view of a packaging device, which in itself does not constitute an object protected by the patent and which performs a first packaging process.

[0075] Fig. 2 shows the packaging device of Fig. 1, which performs an additional first packaging process.

[0076] Fig. 3 shows the packaging device of Figures 1 and 2, which performs an additional first packaging process.

[0077] Fig. 4 shows the packaging device of Figures 1 to 3, which performs an additional first packaging process.

[0078] Fig. 5 shows the packaging device of Figures 1 to 4, which has already been converted to perform a second packaging process.

[0079] Fig. 6 shows the packaging device of Figures 1 to 5, which performs a second packaging process.

[0080] Figures 7 show views from opposite sides of the packing device of Figures 1 to 6, with the packing device carrying out the second packing process of Fig. 6.

[0081] Figures 8 to 10 each show individual components and individual steps of a packaging device which, after suitable reconditioning work, carries out a second packaging process.

[0082] Fig. 11 shows a flow diagram of the individual steps as they can be provided in one embodiment of the method according to the invention.

[0084] The same reference symbols are used for elements of the invention with identical or equivalent function. Furthermore, for clarity, only the reference symbols necessary for the description of each figure are shown in the individual figures. The illustrated embodiments are merely examples of how the invention may be configured and do not constitute a conclusive limitation.

[0086] Fig. 1 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a packaging device 1, which in Fig. 1 performs a first packaging process or is prepared to perform a first packaging process. Using the packaging device 1 of the embodiment in Fig. 1, beverage containers 8 (see Figures 8 to 10), which may be made of, for example, PET or glass bottles, can be packaged. For this purpose, the packaging device 1 includes a transport device 3 that moves the beverage containers along a horizontal transport direction TR. The beverage containers are placed on the transport device 3 or are transported vertically. In various embodiments, the beverage containers 8 can be arranged side by side in the transport device 3 in groups of beverage containers 8, the groups being separated from each other in the transport TR direction and moving in the horizontal transport TR direction, each group of beverage containers 8 having its respective outer packaging 9 (see Figures 8 to 10), as described below.

[0088] The schematic plan view in Fig. 1 also shows a horizontal conveyor 5, integrated into the packaging device 1, and a first storage area 11. A plurality of outer packagings, intended for packaging beverage containers in the first packaging process, are stored in the first storage area 11. By means of a handling device (not shown), certain outer packagings, intended for packaging beverage containers 8 in the first packaging process, are removed from the storage area 11 folded, assembled or unfolded, and placed on the horizontal conveyor 5, so that the horizontal conveyor 5 can move the assembled outer packagings, intended for the first packaging process, in the transport direction FR indicated by the arrow.

[0090] Fig. 1 shows that the FR transport direction, along which the assembled outer packagings move and is predetermined for the first packaging process, and the TR transport direction, along which the transport device 3 moves the beverage containers, run in opposite directions to each other and are oriented parallel or substantially parallel to each other.

[0091] The assembled outer packagings, intended for the first packaging process, are moved by the horizontal conveyor 5 to an additional storage area 12. This additional storage area 12 stores inserts that can be inserted into the assembled outer packagings intended for the first packaging process, thereby forming several chambers within the corresponding outer packaging, one of which is designed or provided to accommodate the corresponding beverage container. These inserts, used in the first packaging process as shown in Fig. 1 or inserted into outer packagings, are called compartments. Due to the large number of folded outer packagings stored in the first storage area 11, the inserts or compartments in the additional storage area 12 can also be folded and assembled during or after removal from the additional storage area 12. A handling device (not shown in the figures of this patent application), the working area of which can extend above the additional storage area 12, can be provided for removing the corresponding insert or compartment and for inserting it into a corresponding outer packaging.

[0093] Reference symbols 16 in Fig. 1 refer to a means integrated into the packaging device 1, enabling the application of adhesive and/or bonding agent to a flap of a predetermined outer packaging for the first packaging process. Thus, before the outer packaging is placed on the horizontal conveyor 5, one or more applications of adhesive and/or bonding agent can be made to one or more flaps, with these flaps being folded and subsequently held folded by the applied adhesive and/or bonding agent. Since the outer packaging placed on the horizontal conveyor 5 moves in the FR transport direction before the beverage containers are inserted, the adhesive and/or bonding agent application can at least partially dry or harden, thereby minimizing the risk of accidental detachment during or after the beverage containers are inserted into the outer packaging.

[0095] In the additional storage area 12, there is also a means 16 for applying an adhesive and/or bonding agent to the corresponding outer packaging and/or a corresponding insert or compartment. The adhesive and/or bonding agent applied by means 16, located in the additional storage area 12, secures the corresponding insert or compartment to the corresponding outer packaging by bonding the materials.

[0097] An additional transport device 7, integrated into the packaging device 1, is located between the horizontal conveyor 5 and the transport device 3. After inserting the corresponding insert or compartment into the corresponding outer packaging, the outer packaging, together with the inserted insert or compartment, is transferred to the transport device 7. A manipulator can be installed for this purpose, which transfers the outer packaging, along with the inserted insert or compartment, to the transport device 7.

[0099] After transferring the corresponding outer packaging with the insert or compartment it contains, the corresponding outer packaging with the insert or compartment it contains is transported by the additional transport device 7 in the BR direction of movement indicated by the arrow. The BR direction of movement of the additional transport device 7 and the TR direction of movement of the transport device 3 are parallel and run in the same direction. The BR direction of movement of the additional transport device 7 and the FR direction of movement of the horizontal conveyor 5 are parallel and run in opposite directions.

[0101] Reference symbol 18 refers to a working tool designed as a component of a manipulator not shown. Beverage containers are received from the transport device 3 via the working tool 18. The working tool 18 may include several clamping or gripping elements to simultaneously receive several beverage containers, intended for insertion into the corresponding outer packaging from the transport device 3. After reception, the working tool 18 moves to the position shown in Fig. 1 and deposits the beverage containers received from the transport device 3 into the corresponding outer packaging from above. In this case, the beverage container is inserted from above into the corresponding chamber formed by an insert or compartment. The working tool 18 may be equipped with centering devices to precisely insert the beverage containers into the chamber formed by the corresponding insert or compartment in the corresponding outer packaging.

[0103] A means 16 can then be used to apply an adhesive and/or bonding agent to the top flap of the corresponding outer packaging, into which the beverage containers have already been inserted. Shortly after the beverage containers are inserted, this top flap is folded down, and the applied adhesive and/or bonding agent holds this folded top flap in position. The outer packaging is then closed. The outer packaging, with its respective insert or compartment, as well as the inserted beverage containers, forms a complete and finished packaging unit, which is moved by the additional transport device 7 in the BR direction of movement for further handling or palletizing.

[0104] The schematic representation in Fig. 2 shows the packaging device 1 of Fig. 1, which performs another first packaging process. This first packaging process, carried out by the packaging device 1 of Fig. 2, differs in the design of the inserts, which are inserted into the respective outer packagings, previously assembled and placed on the horizontal conveyor 5.

[0106] In Fig. 1, the packaging device 1 has an additional storage compartment 12, comprising several inserts or compartments that form several chambers for inserting beverage containers into a respective outer packaging. Conversely, the packaging device 1 in Fig. 2 has an additional storage compartment 13, comprising several inserts that allow combining several, in particular six, beverage containers, each insert forming a handle for carrying the combined beverage containers by means of the corresponding insert. This insert, housed within the storage compartment 13 in Fig. 2, is referred to in practice as a basket holder.

[0108] Packaging device 1 according to Fig. 1 and packaging device 1 according to Fig. 2 may include or be connected to a driverless conveyor system. If the outer packagings or inserts of a storage unit 11, 12, or 13 are depleted, packaging device 1 may receive a new storage unit 11, 12, or 13 and the corresponding outer packaging or inserts via the driverless conveyor system.

[0110] In both Figure 1 and Figure 2, the beverage containers are inserted into their respective outer packaging from above or placed on top of the respective outer packaging from above. A handling operation in the packaging process described in Figures 1 and 2, where the beverage containers are inserted into their respective outer packaging from above, is referred to in practice as "top loading." Lateral insertion of the beverage containers into the corresponding outer packaging is not provided for in the first packaging process. However, packaging device 1 can perform a second process, as described in Figures 5 to 11, where the beverage containers are inserted laterally into the outer packaging.

[0112] The schematic representation in Fig. 3 shows the packaging device 1 of Figs. 1 and 2, which performs a first additional packaging process. In the first packaging process, as shown in Fig. 3, the beverage containers are also placed onto the outer packaging from above. The lateral insertion of the beverage containers into the corresponding outer packaging is not provided for in the first packaging process, as shown in Fig. 3. Instead, the lateral insertion is performed in a second packaging process using packaging device 1, as described in Figs. 5 to 11.

[0114] A comparison of Fig. 3 with Figures 1 and 2 clearly shows that the additional warehouse 12 or 13, provided for in Figures 1 and 2 for packaging device 1, is not found in Fig. 3. The outer packagings received by the first warehouse 11 during the first packaging process according to Fig. 3 may correspond to the outer packagings received by the first warehouse 11 during the first packaging process, according to Figures 1 and 2. Therefore, the outer packagings may consist of cardboard boxes with a top flap that closes after the insertion of the respective articles or beverage containers.

[0115] Since the additional storage area 11 or 12 provided for in the first packaging process according to Figures 1 and 2 is not included in Figure 3, in said packaging process according to Figure 3, no inserts, compartments, or basket holders are provided that are inserted into the corresponding outer packaging before the corresponding outer packaging is transferred to the transport device 7. As described for the first packaging process carried out by the packaging device 1 in Figures 1 and 2, the beverage containers are inserted into the outer packaging already disposed of in the transport device 7 by means of the working tool 18. In comparison with the first packaging process of Figures 1 and 2, no chambers are formed in the outer packaging, nor are any inserts provided therein, so that the beverage containers are inserted into an outer packaging or carton without subdivisions. According to the first packaging process shown in Figures 1 and 2, after inserting the beverage containers into the corresponding outer packaging (without subdivision in Figure 3), an adhesive and/or bonding agent is applied to a top flap using means 16. The top flap is then folded, and the outer packaging (without subdivision) is sealed. The closed, unsubdivisioned outer packaging forms a single packaging unit with the inserted beverage containers, which can be moved using the additional transport device 7 for further handling or palletizing.

[0117] In the first packing process, according to Fig. 3, the beverage containers are also inserted into the corresponding outer packaging from above, or placed on top of the corresponding outer packaging from above, according to the first packing process, according to Figures 1 and 2. The handling procedure described in the first packing process, according to Figures 1 to 3, in which the beverage containers are inserted into the corresponding outer packaging from above, is referred to in practice as "top loading".

[0119] The schematic representation in Fig. 4 shows the packaging device 1 of Figures 1 to 3, which performs a further first packaging process. The horizontal conveyor 5, provided for the first packaging process according to Figures 1 to 3, on which the outer packaging extracted from the first storage 11 is placed, is not included in the first packaging process according to Fig. 4 or is not part of the packaging device 1. In the first packaging process according to Fig. 4, a plurality of trays are arranged in the first storage 11. In the additional storage 14, a plurality of outer packagings are arranged, which can hold several beverage containers, these outer packagings being fully or almost fully enclosed on all sides. At the top, the outer packagings arranged in the additional storage 14 can form a handle or handle area, allowing the corresponding outer packaging to be carried along with the beverage containers inside.

[0121] In the first packaging process, as shown in Fig. 4, the outer packaging stored in the additional storage unit 14 is removed from the additional storage unit 14, assembled, and placed on the additional transport device 7. The manipulator's working tool 18, not shown, simultaneously receives several beverage containers from the transport device 3 and places them, from above, onto the outer packaging from the additional storage unit 14, which is already positioned on the additional transport device 7. The beverage containers placed on the outer packaging are transported together with the outer packaging through the additional transport device 7 in the BR direction of movement. An outer packaging or tray is also removed from the first storage unit 11 and placed on the additional transport device 7. The beverage containers placed on the outer packaging of the additional warehouse 14 are lifted onto the tray together with the outer packaging, from above, and several packaging units formed by a corresponding outer packaging of the combined beverage containers from the additional warehouse 14 on a corresponding tray are combined into a corresponding tray to form a larger packaging unit.

[0123] In comparison with the first packing process of Figures 1 to 3, the packing process of Fig. 4 can be implemented by a packing device that has a compact structure compared with the first packing process of Figures 1 to 3.

[0125] In the first packaging process, as shown in Fig. 4, the beverage containers are also inserted into the corresponding outer packaging from above or placed on top of the corresponding outer packaging from above, as described in Figures 1 to 3. The handling described in the first packaging process, as shown in Figures 1 to 4, where the beverage containers are inserted into the corresponding outer packaging from above or placed on top of the corresponding outer packaging from above, is in practice referred to, as already mentioned, as "top loading". Side insertion of the beverage containers into the outer packaging is also not provided for in the first packaging process described in Fig. 4.

[0126] The schematic representation in Fig. 5 shows the packaging device 1 of Figures 1 to 4, already adapted for a second packaging process. As shown in Fig. 5, the transport device 3 remains part of the packaging device 1 and was not removed during the reconversion of the packaging device 1. The articles or beverage containers to be packaged continue to move in the transport direction TR through the transport device 3. The additional transport device 7 was also not removed from the packaging device 1 during the reconversion and therefore remains part of the packaging device 1 after the reconversion is completed. The horizontal conveyor 5, already designed as a component of the packaging device 1 in the first packaging process, according to Figures 1 to 4, was also not removed from the packaging device 1 during the reconversion and is used in the second packaging process.

[0128] A comparison of Figures 1 to 4 with Figure 5 shows that a transfer table 20 was added to the packaging device 1 during the retooling or retooling. Compared to the first packaging process shown in Figures 1 to 4, the TR transport direction of the transport device 3, the B<r> movement direction of the additional transport device 7, and the FR transport direction of the horizontal conveyor 5 run parallel and in identical directions.

[0130] The additional storage areas 12, 13, and 14, removed for the first packaging process in Figures 1, 2, and 4, are no longer intended for the second packaging process. However, as part of the conversion, a second storage area 15 was added to packaging unit 1, where several outer packagings are stored, these outer packagings being adapted for the second packaging process. The outer packagings stored in or received by the second storage area 15 have a side access opening through which several items or several beverage containers can be inserted laterally into their respective outer packaging.

[0132] During the second packing process, the outer packaging located in the second storage 15 or additional storage is removed from the second storage 15, assembled, and placed on the horizontal conveyor 5. This horizontal conveyor 5 moves the outer packaging removed from the second storage 15 and placed in the FR direction, thus bringing the outer packaging removed from the second storage 15 and placed on the horizontal conveyor 5 to a position where it is positioned laterally adjacent to the transfer table 20.

[0133] A manipulator, not shown, simultaneously receives several beverage containers or items from the transport device 3 by means of a working tool, which may be designed similarly to the working tool 18 shown and described in Figures 1 to 4, and places these beverage containers or items onto the transfer table 20. The manipulator, already available in the first packaging process and designed to place the beverage containers from above onto the corresponding outer packaging in the first packaging process, may also be used in the second packaging process. Furthermore, this manipulator, available in the first packaging process, may be functionally redesigned to perform the second packaging process, such that this manipulator places the beverage containers onto the transfer table 20 instead of placing the beverage containers from above onto the corresponding outer packaging.

[0135] Using a transfer tool 19 (see Figures 8 to 10), which can be installed during the conversion, if necessary, on the manipulator designed during the first packaging process to place beverage containers onto the outer packaging or on another manipulator, the beverage containers or items placed on the transfer table 20 are moved perpendicular to the FR transport direction of the horizontal conveyor 5. In this way, these beverage containers, moved perpendicular to the FR transport direction of the horizontal conveyor 5, are inserted laterally into the corresponding outer packaging, which is still on the horizontal conveyor 5. This lateral insertion is not provided for in the first packaging process, already described in Figures 1 to 4, and is only carried out via the packaging device 1 in the second packaging process.

[0137] After inserting the articles or beverage containers laterally into the corresponding outer packaging, a side flap 43 (see Fig. 7), which was not previously closed for the insertion of the articles or beverage containers, is folded down, and an adhesive and/or bonding agent is applied to the lower flap 45 (see Fig. 7). This lower flap is folded upwards and, by applying the adhesive and/or bonding agent, holds the side flaps in their folded position. The adhesive and/or bonding agent can also be applied using the means 16 already provided for the first packaging process.

[0139] The first warehouse 11 contains outer packaging designed as trays, where several packaging units, already formed by inserting them laterally into a respective outer packaging, can be combined to form a larger packaging unit. Embodiments where packaging units are combined to form a larger packaging unit by means of additional outer packaging have proven effective in practice for further improving logistics management.

[0141] The outer packaging arranged in the first storage unit 11 and configured as trays is removed from the first storage unit 11 and placed in the additional transport device 7. The additional transport device 7 then moves the outer packaging in the BR direction of movement.

[0143] A manipulator, not shown in Fig. 5, is used to place the beverage containers, already inserted into the outer packaging of the second storage unit 15, onto the trays that the additional transport device 7 moves in the BR direction of movement. The manipulator has a gripping unit 30, visible in Figures 6 and 7. Using the gripping unit 30 shown in Figures 6 and 7, the manipulator receives the beverage containers along with their outer packaging and, upon receiving them, folds down a top flap of the corresponding outer packaging so that the outer packaging is at least almost completely closed. The top flap is held in its folded position by an adhesive and/or bonding agent previously applied to the top flap.

[0145] The direction of transfer movement of the manipulator or gripping unit 30, shown in Figures 6 and 7, is oblique and, in particular, perpendicular to the FR transport direction of the horizontal conveyor 5 and to the movement direction of the additional transport device 7. Once the gripping unit 30, together with the received outer packaging and the beverage containers arranged therein, reaches a position where the gripping unit 30 and the outer packaging with the beverage containers arranged therein, transported by the gripping unit 30, are above a tray arranged on the additional transport device 7, the gripping unit 30 descends and places the received outer packaging with the beverage containers arranged therein onto the tray. Next, the gripping unit 30 releases the outer packaging with the respective beverage containers arranged in it, whereby the tray, as well as the outer packaging that is on or placed on the tray with the beverage containers arranged in it, are transported by means of the additional transport device 7 in the BR direction of movement for subsequent handling and/or palletizing.

[0147] The schematic representation in Fig. 6 shows packaging device 1 from Figures 1 to 5 performing a second packaging process. This top view shows packaging device 1 from Figures 1 to 5, already converted for the second packaging process.

[0149] Fig. 6 shows the outer packagings 9 placed on the horizontal conveyor 5, each with two upper flaps 42 arranged on opposite sides that do not fold until received by the gripping unit 30. The front and rear flaps of each outer packaging 9 are placed in a vertical position as soon as the outer packaging moves from the second storage 15 (see Fig. 5) onto the horizontal conveyor 7 and, after placing the corresponding outer packaging 9 on the horizontal conveyor 7, are held in a vertical position by the clamping mechanism 36 during a continuous movement in the FR transport direction.

[0151] The outer packaging 9 placed on the horizontal conveyor 5 for the first packaging process, as shown in Figures 1 to 4, lacks the front and rear flaps, which must be held in a vertical position during the movement of the corresponding outer packaging 9 in the FR transport direction. Therefore, the securing means 36 are added as part of the retrofitting of the horizontal conveyor 7 or the packaging device 1 for the second packaging process. The manipulator, which can be used to place the outer packaging on the horizontal conveyor 5 during the first packaging process, has also been adapted for the second packaging process, so that the manipulator can lift the front and rear flaps of the corresponding outer packaging for placement on the horizontal conveyor 5 during the second packaging process.

[0153] The schematic representation in Fig. 6 also illustrates that several beverage containers can be simultaneously inserted from the transfer table 20 into several outer packagings 9 perpendicular to the FR transport direction of the horizontal conveyor 5. The front and rear flaps of a respective outer packaging, which are already in a vertical position, are held in this vertical position by the clamping means 36 during the insertion of the beverage containers into the respective outer packaging 9.

[0155] Embodiments may also be conceived in which the outer packagings 9 do not have the described front and rear flaps. In these outer packagings 9, the fastening means 36 may nevertheless be incorporated during the second packaging process to secure the front and rear sides or the side walls of the respective outer packagings 9, which are moved by the horizontal conveyor 5 during movement, or to hold them in a vertical position.

[0157] Fig. 6 also illustrates that the gripping unit 30, which picks up the outer packagings 9 with the beverage containers inserted in them from the horizontal conveyor 5 and places them on a tray located in the additional transport device 7 or in another outer packaging 9 also located in said additional transport device 7, is designed so that the gripping unit 30 can fold down the upper flaps 42 of said outer packaging 9. The gripping unit 30 can be installed on a manipulator already included in the first packaging process, as part of the retrofitting of the packaging device 1 for the second packaging process. It is also possible to add a manipulator to the packaging device 1 during the retrofitting, which includes the gripping unit 30 (shown in Fig. 6) to receive the outer packaging 9 with the items inserted in it and fold down the corresponding upper flaps 42 of the outer packaging 9.

[0158] Figures 7A and 7B show views from opposite sides of packaging device 1 of Figures 1 to 6, with packaging device 1 performing the second packaging process of Figures 5 and 6. As part of the retrofit, a first folding rail 32, a second folding rail 32', a third folding rail 33, and a fourth folding rail 33' were added to packaging device 1. The first folding rail 32 and the second folding rail 32' run along the horizontal conveyor 5 and are arranged on one side of the horizontal conveyor 5. The third folding rail 33 and the fourth folding rail 33' also run along the horizontal conveyor 5 and are arranged on one opposite side of the horizontal conveyor 5.

[0159] When a corresponding outer packaging 9 is placed on the horizontal conveyor 5, the side flaps 43 and 44 of each corresponding outer packaging 9 are already folded and are held folded by the first folding rail 32 during the continuous movement of the horizontal conveyor 5 in the FR transport direction. The lower flaps 45 and the upper flaps 42 of each corresponding outer packaging 9 are not yet folded and have not been folded immediately after the corresponding outer packaging 9 is placed on the horizontal conveyor 5. Number 20 also refers to the transfer table mentioned above. In the area of the transfer table 20, several beverage containers 8 (see Figures 8 to 10) are inserted into each outer packaging 9.

[0161] Fig. 7B shows that, after each beverage container 8 is inserted into its respective outer packaging 9, the side flaps of the outer packaging 9 are closed or folded, these side flaps being designated 43' and 44' in Fig. 7B. To maintain their folded orientation, these side flaps 43 and 44 come into contact with the third folding rail 33, which holds them folded. During a subsequent movement of the corresponding outer packaging 9, along with the beverage containers 8 already inserted, in the FR transport direction, the lower flaps 45 of the corresponding outer packaging 9 are successively lifted. This is accomplished by the second folding rail 32', located on the first side of the horizontal conveyor 5, which is angled with respect to the horizontal. On the opposite side of the horizontal conveyor 5, the fourth folding rail 33' lifts the lower flaps 45, which are also angled relative to the horizontal. The lower flaps 45 are aligned vertically by the lifting action of the respective folding rail 32' or 33' and remain attached to the folded side flaps 43 and 44 by an adhesive and/or bonding agent previously applied to the lower flaps.

[0163] Even after the lower flaps 45 are fully folded, the upper flaps 42 of each outer package 9 are still not folded. The folding of the upper flaps 42 is performed by the gripping unit 30, which receives several outer packages 9 with their flaps fully folded from the horizontal conveyor 5 and deposits these several outer packages 9 simultaneously onto a common additional outer package or onto a common tray.

[0165] A combined view of Figures 1 to 4, where packaging device 1 performs the first packaging process described, and Figures 5 to 7, where packaging device 1 performs the second packaging process described, clearly illustrates the retrofit work carried out on packaging device 1. Therefore, the retrofit of packaging machine 1 includes the following steps or aspects, which are merely illustrative and not exhaustive:

[0167] - equipping a manipulator with a gripping unit 30 that is designed to fold the top flaps of a plurality of outer packagings 9 and can deposit the outer packagings 9 together with the beverage containers inserted or placed on top of an additional outer packaging and/or providing a manipulator with a gripping unit 30 that is designed to fold the top flaps 42 of a plurality of outer packagings 9 and can deposit the outer packagings 9 together with the beverage containers inserted or placed on top of an additional outer packaging 9;

[0168] - fixing a plurality of folding rails 32, 32', 33 and 33' provided for folding and/or securing tabs on opposite sides of a horizontal conveyor 5, wherein the horizontal conveyor is already provided for transporting the outer packagings 9 in the first packaging process and also displaces the outer packagings in the second packaging process;

[0170] - place a transfer table 20 next to the horizontal conveyor 5, transfer table 20 from which the beverage containers are inserted into the outer packaging 9;

[0172] - attach a plurality of fastening means 36 to the horizontal carrier 5, allowing the plurality of fastening means 36 to maintain in a vertical orientation the front and rear sides and/or the front and rear flaps of a respective outer packaging 9;

[0174] - adjust the track width of the horizontal conveyor 5 to transport the outer packagings 9 intended for the second packaging process;

[0176] - provide a second storage 15 for the packaging device 1, the second storage 15 housing 9 outer packagings which have a side opening for inserting a plurality of beverage containers.

[0178] Figures 8A, 8B, 9, and 10 show the individual components and individual steps of a packaging device 1 which, after the corresponding conversion, performs a second packaging process. For example, Fig. 8A shows a second working tool 31, provided by the manipulator which, in the first packaging process, places the items from above onto the outer packaging 9, or is arranged on the manipulator which, in the first packaging process, places the items from above onto the outer packaging 9 to insert the beverage containers 8 into outer packagings 9, as shown in Figures 8A and 8B together. The second working tool 31 is designed as a transfer bar or tool 19, which makes surface contact with the beverage containers 8 to insert the beverage containers 8 into the outer packaging 9 and then pushes the beverage containers 8 perpendicular to the FR transport direction, indicated by the arrows in Figures 6 and 7. A longitudinal direction of the second working tool 31 or transfer tool 19 extends parallel to the FR transport direction of the horizontal conveyor 5 (see Figures 5 to 7).

[0180] A combined view of Figures 8A and 8B illustrates the surface contact between the second working tool 31 and the beverage containers 8, as well as the insertion of the corresponding beverage containers 8 into the outer packaging 9, which stands upright on the horizontal conveyor 5. Figures 8A and 8B also show that the corresponding outer packaging 9 is in contact with the support medium 36 during the insertion of the beverage containers 8. In addition, the beverage containers 8 are moved between the guide elements 22 during insertion to prevent disorientation of the beverage containers 8. The guide elements 22 can be carried by the manipulator or placed on it.

[0182] Fig. 9 again shows the possibility of inserting beverage containers 8 into the outer packaging 9 during the second packaging process. In Fig. 9, the front face of each outer packaging 9 rests against the rear face of an immediately adjacent outer packaging 9. The number of clamping means 36 required to maintain the vertical position is reduced in Fig. 9 compared to Fig. 8. A corresponding arrangement of the clamping means 36, as shown in Fig. 8 or Fig. 9, can be implemented as part of the retrofitting of the packaging device 1 for adaptation to the second packaging process to be carried out.

[0184] The insertion of Fig. 10 corresponds essentially to the insertion of Figures 8 and differs from the insertion of Figures 8 in the respective relative arrangement of the beverage containers 8 with each other during and after the insertion.

[0186] Fig. 11 shows a flowchart of the individual steps that can be provided in one embodiment of method 10 according to the invention. Thus, in a first step S1, a first packaging process is carried out in a packaging device. This first packaging process, or first step S1, consists of placing the articles onto a corresponding outer packaging from above.

[0188] Once the first packaging process (step S1) is completed, in a second step S2 a conversion work is carried out on this packaging device or packaging machine, adapting the conversion work to a second packaging process.

[0190] Once the conversion work is completed, in a third step S3 a second packaging process is carried out on this converted packaging device or packaging machine, the second packaging process providing for a side insertion of items into an outer packaging that is not provided for in the first packaging process.

[0192] List of reference signs

[0194] I packaging device

[0195] 3 transport device

[0196] 5 horizontal conveyor

[0197] 7 additional conveyor

[0198] 8 beverage container

[0199] 9 outer packaging

[0200] 10 process

[0201] I I first warehouse

[0202] 12 additional warehouse

[0203] 13 additional warehouse

[0204] 14 additional warehouse

[0205] 15 second warehouse

[0206] 16 means for applying adhesive and/or folding agent

[0207] 18 work tool

[0208] 19 transfer tool

[0209] 20 transfer table

[0210] 22 guide element

[0211] 30 grip unit

[0212] 31 second work tool

[0213] 32 first folding rail

[0214] 32' second folding rail

[0215] 33 third folding rail

[0216] 33' quarter folding rail

[0217] 35 clamping devices

[0218] 36 clamping devices

[0219] 42 top flap

[0220] 43 side flap

[0221] 43' Side flap

[0222] 44 side flap

[0223] 44' Side flap

[0224] 45 lower flap

[0225] BR Direction of movement

[0226] FR Transport Directorate

[0227] TR Transport Directorate

[0229] 51 first step, first packaging process, first step of the process

[0230] 52 second step, conversion work, second step of the process

[0231] 53 third step, second packaging process, third step of the process

Claims (8)

1. CLAIMS 1. Method (10) for packaging articles, such as beverage containers (8) or the like, comprising the following steps: - performing a first packaging process in a packaging device (1), applying in the first packaging process a corresponding outer packaging over the articles from above through at least one first working tool (18) of at least one manipulator, and/or applying the articles over a corresponding outer packaging (9) from above through at least one first working tool (19) of the at least one manipulator, - after the first packaging process, a second packaging process is carried out in this packaging device (1), this second packaging process providing a side insertion of articles into outer packagings (9) which is not provided in the first packaging process, the method (10) being characterized in that To carry out the second packaging process, the packaging device is reconverted and adapted to the second packaging process. after the first packing process, a second working tool (31) is provided by at least one manipulator or supplied by the same manipulator, inserting articles laterally into outer packings through the second working tool (31) in the second packing process, and providing the method that The at least one manipulator in the context of the conversion autonomously moves at least one first working tool (18) to a storage location and removes at least one second working tool (31) from a waiting position and/or a storage location. 2. Method according to claim 1, wherein at least one transport device (3) is provided, at least one transport device (3) remaining in the packaging device during certain reconversions to perform the second packaging process and supplying, both in the first packaging process and in the second packaging process, articles for packaging. 3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the outer packagings (9) are moved along the same at least one horizontal conveyor (5) in the first packaging process and in the second packaging process, and wherein a track width of the at least one horizontal conveyor formed or fitted in the first packaging process is preferably adapted in accordance with or corresponding to the outer packagings (9) to be moved in the second packaging process. 4. Method according to claim 3, wherein, within the framework of the conversions, several fastening means are arranged on the at least one horizontal conveyor (5), the fastening means holding the front and rear sides and/or the front and rear flaps of these outer packagings (9) in a vertical orientation during a movement of the outer packagings (9) caused by the at least one horizontal conveyor (5) in the second packaging process. 5. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the outer packagings (9) adapted to the first packaging process and the outer packagings (9) adapted to the second packaging process are supplied to the packaging device (1) via a driverless conveyor system, as required. 6. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein an instruction is specified to the packaging device (1) temporarily during the first packaging process to switch from the first packaging process to the second packaging process, and wherein the packaging device (1) switches from the first packaging process to the second packaging process during a continuous packaging operation. 7. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the at least one manipulator is a multi-axis robot and/or a gantry system and/or a delta kinematic robot. 8. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein during the reconversions there remains in the packaging device (1) at least one manipulator who applies a corresponding outer packaging (9) from above onto the articles and/or who places articles onto a corresponding outer packaging (9) from above in the first packaging process, and who inserts articles laterally into outer packagings (9) in the second packaging process.