JP7677906B2 - Packaging machine for forming sealed packaging containers - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a packaging machine for forming a sealed package, in particular for forming a sealed package filled with a pourable product.

As is well known, many liquid or pourable foods, such as fruit juice, UHT (ultra-high temperature treated) milk, wine, tomato sauce, etc., are sold in packaging containers made of sterile packaging material.

A typical example is the parallelepiped-shaped packaging container for liquids or pourable foods known as Tetra Brik Aseptic®, which is made by sealing and folding a laminated strip packaging material. The packaging material has a multi-layer structure comprising a base layer, e.g. paper, covered on both sides with a layer of heat-sealable plastic material, e.g. polyethylene. In the case of aseptic packaging containers for long-term storage products such as UHT milk, the packaging material also comprises a layer of oxygen barrier material, e.g. aluminium foil, which is superimposed on a layer of heat-sealable plastic material and then covered with another layer of heat-sealable plastic material that forms the inner surface of the packaging container that ultimately contacts the food product.

Typically, packaging containers of this kind are produced in a fully automatic packaging machine, which advances the web of packaging material by a conveying device through a sterilization unit to sterilize the web of packaging material, for example by chemical sterilization (e.g. by applying a chemical sterilant such as a hydrogen peroxide solution) or physical sterilization (e.g. by electron beam). The sterilized web of packaging material is then maintained and advanced within an isolation chamber defining an internal environment, within which it is folded and sealed longitudinally to form a tube, which is further fed along a vertical advance direction.

To complete the forming operation, the tube is filled with pourable food product through a filling pipe, transversely sealed and then cut along equally spaced transverse sections in the packaging container forming unit of the packaging machine while advancing along the vertical advance direction.

Pillow-shaped packaging containers are thus obtained in the packaging machine, each of which has a vertical seal strip, a transverse seal strip on the top surface, and a transverse seal strip on the bottom surface.

Some packaging machines are
a separator element, which in use is arranged within the tube and divides the tube into a first space in fluid communication with the internal environment and a second space arranged downstream of the first space;
a sterilization gas supply configured to direct sterilization gas into the second space and to control the pressure of the sterilization gas to be higher than the pressure in the isolation chamber;
Equipped with.

The separator element has a passage through which the fill tube extends and maintains an annular space between the fill tube and a rim that separates the passage.

The sterilizing gas supply device further comprises a gas supply pipe coaxial with the filling pipe. In particular, the filling pipe extends partially into the gas supply pipe, exits the gas supply pipe and extends through the passage, so that during use, the sterilizing gas supplied to the second space flows through a ring-shaped channel bounded by the filling pipe and the gas supply pipe.

To accommodate inherent variations that occur during the packaging process, the separator element is movable along a first direction and a second direction opposite the first direction, both of which are parallel to the vertical advance direction.

During use, the separator element is lifted by the sterilizing gas present in the second space, and the separator element is movable along a first direction until a first engagement portion of the separator element abuts against a first abutment portion of the gas supply pipe, and is movable along a second direction until a second engagement portion of the separator element abuts against a second abutment portion of a support element disposed below the separator element.

It has been observed that when the first engagement portion is separated from the first abutment portion, leakage flow of gas from the second space to the internal environment occurs through the ring-shaped channel and the space existing between the separator element and the gas supply pipe, whereas when the first engagement portion abuts against the first abutment portion, no leakage flow occurs.

Furthermore, such behavior has been observed to lead to the presence of instabilities, increasing the complexity of controlling the entire packaging process.

Therefore, there is a felt need in this field to improve packaging machines, particularly to overcome at least one of the above-mentioned shortcomings.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an improved packaging machine in a simple and low-cost manner.

According to the present invention, a packaging machine as described in claim 1 is provided.

Further advantageous embodiments of the packaging machine according to the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

Non-limiting embodiments of the present invention are described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

1 is a schematic diagram of a packaging machine according to the present invention, with parts removed for clarity; FIG. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a detail of the packaging machine of FIG. 1 with parts removed for clarity; 2 is an enlarged, fragmentary, cross-sectional view of a portion of the packaging machine of FIG. 1 with parts removed for clarity; FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a detail of a portion of FIG. 3 with parts removed for clarity; FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of FIG. 3 with parts removed for clarity.

Number 1 generally indicates a packaging machine for producing sealed packaging containers 2 of pourable food products, in particular sterilized and/or pasteurized pourable food products such as pasteurized milk or fruit juice, from a tube 3 of a web 4 of packaging material. In particular, in use, the tube 3 extends along a longitudinal axis L, in particular an axis L having a vertical direction.

The web of packaging material 4 has a multi-layer structure (not shown) and comprises at least one layer of fibrous material, e.g. a layer of paper or cardboard, and at least two layers of heat-sealable plastic material, e.g. polyethylene, sandwiching the layer of fibrous material therebetween. One of these two layers of heat-sealable plastic material, which defines the inner surface of the packaging container 2, will ultimately be in contact with the pourable product.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the web 4 also comprises a layer of gas- and light-barrier material, e.g. aluminum foil or ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) film, in particular arranged between one of the layers of heat-sealing plastic material and the layer of textile material. Preferentially, but not necessarily, the web 4 also comprises a further layer of heat-sealing plastic material sandwiched between the layer of gas- and light-barrier material and the layer of textile material.

A typical packaging container 2 obtained by the packaging machine 1 comprises a sealed longitudinal seam portion 5 and a pair of transverse seal portions 6, in particular a top transverse seal portion and a bottom transverse seal portion (i.e., one transverse seal portion 6 at the top of the packaging container 2 and another transverse seal portion 6 at the bottom of the packaging container 2).

With particular reference to Figures 1 and 2, the packaging machine 1 comprises:
a conveying device 7 configured to advance the web 4 (in a manner known as such) along a web advancement path P from a delivery station 8 to a tube forming station 9 (wherein, in use, the web 4 is formed into a tube 3);
an isolation chamber 10 having an internal environment 11, in particular an internal sterile environment, containing (comprising) a sterile gas, in particular sterile air, and separated from an external environment 12;
a tube forming and sealing device 13 arranged at least partially within the isolation chamber 10 and adapted to form and longitudinally seal, in use, a tube 3 from the advancing web 4 within the internal environment 11, in particular at the tube forming station 9;
- a filling device 14 for filling the tube 3 with the pourable product, and - a packaging forming unit 15 adapted in particular to form, transversely seal and preferably, but not necessarily, transversely cut the advancing tube 3 in use to form the packaging container 2.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the packaging machine 1 also comprises a sterilization unit (not shown, but known as such) adapted to sterilize the advancing web 4 during use, in particular by chemical and/or physical sterilization, at a sterilization station, in particular a sterilization station arranged upstream of the tube forming station 9 along the web advancement path P.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the conveying device 7 is configured to advance the tube 3, and in particular any intermediate portions of the tube 3, at least partially through it along the tube advancement path Q, in a manner known as such, in particular from the tube forming station 9 to the packaging container forming unit 15.

In particular, by the term intermediate tube 3, it is meant either the configuration of the web 4 before obtaining the tube structure and after the folding of the web 4 by the tube forming device 13 has begun. In other words, the intermediate tube 3 is the result of the gradual folding of the web 4 to obtain the tube 3, in particular by overlapping the lateral edges of the web 4 with each other.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the tube forming and sealing device 13 comprises a tube forming unit 22 arranged at least partially, preferably completely, in the isolation chamber 10, in particular in the tube forming station 9, which is adapted (configured) to gradually fold the advancing web 4 into the tube 3, in particular by overlapping the transverse edges with each other, in order to form a longitudinal seam portion 23 of the tube 3. In particular, the tube forming unit 22 extends along a longitudinal axis M and has in particular a vertical orientation.

In particular, the seam portion 23 extends downwardly along the tube advancement path Q from an initial level (not specifically shown). In other words, the initial level is at the location where the lateral edges begin to overlap one another to form the seam portion 23.

In particular, at least a portion of the tube advance path Q is within the isolation chamber 10 (in particular within the internal environment 11), and even more particularly, another portion of the tube advance path Q is within the packaging container forming unit 15.

More specifically, axis L and axis M are parallel to each other. Even more specifically, the tube forming unit 22 defines the axis L of the tube 3 during use.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the tube forming unit 22 comprises at least two forming ring assemblies 24 and 25 arranged in the isolation chamber 10 (in particular in the internal environment 11) which are adapted to cooperate with each other to gradually fold the web 4 into a tube 3, in particular by overlapping the lateral edges of the web 4 with each other.

Even more specifically, the forming ring assemblies 24 and 25 are spaced apart from one another and parallel to one another.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the tube forming and sealing apparatus 13 also comprises a sealing unit adapted (configured) to longitudinally seal the tube 3 along the seam portion 23. In other words, during use, the seam portion 23 formed by the tube forming unit 22 is sealed by operation of the sealing unit.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the sealing unit is at least partially disposed within the isolation chamber 10.

Note that each longitudinally sealed seam portion 5 of the single package 2 results from cutting the tube 3. In other words, each seam portion 5 of the single package 2 is a respective section of the seam portion 23 of the tube 3.

Furthermore, the sealing unit comprises a sealing head 29 arranged in the isolation chamber 10 and adapted (configured) to transfer thermal energy to the tube 3, in particular to the seam portion 23, in order to longitudinally seal the tube 3, in particular to the seam portion 23. The sealing head 29 may be of any type. In particular, the sealing head 29 may be of the kind that operates by induction heating, and/or by a flow of heated gas, and/or by ultrasound, and/or by laser heating, and/or by any other means.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the sealing unit also comprises a press assembly (only partially shown) adapted to exert a mechanical force on the tube 3, in particular on the seam portion 23, to ensure a longitudinal seal of the tube 3 along the seam portion 23.

With particular reference to Figures 1 to 3 and 5, the filling device 14 comprises a filling pipe 31 for directing the pourable product into the tube 3 during use. In particular, the filling pipe 31 is in fluid communication with, or controllable to be in fluid communication with, a pourable product storage tank (not shown, but known as such) adapted to store/provide the pourable product to be packaged, in particular a sterile and/or sterilized pourable product.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the filling pipe 31 is at least partially disposed within the tube 3 during use.

In particular, the filling pipe 31 comprises a straight main pipe section 32 which extends parallel to the tube 3, i.e. parallel to the axis M and/or the axis L.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the main pipe section 32 comprises an upper section 33 and a lower section 34 removably joined to each other. More particularly, the lower section 34 comprises an outlet opening through which the pourable product is delivered to the tube 3 during use.

According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment as shown in FIG. 2, the package forming unit 15 comprises a plurality of pairs of at least one respective motion assembly 35 (only one shown) and at least one opposing motion assembly 36 (only one shown), and
- in particular comprising a transport device (not shown, but known as such) adapted to advance a respective motion assembly 35 and a respective counter motion assembly 36 of a pair along a respective transport path;

More specifically, each operating assembly 35 is adapted to cooperate with a respective opposing operating assembly 36 of a respective pair to form a respective packaging container 2 from the tube 3 during use. In particular, each operating assembly 35 and each opposing operating assembly 36 is configured to shape, transversely seal and preferably, but not necessarily, transversely cut the tube 3 to form the packaging container 2.

More particularly, each motion assembly 35 and each counter motion assembly 36 are adapted to cooperate with one another to form a respective package 2 from the tube 3 as they advance along their respective motion portions of the respective conveying paths. In particular, while advancing along their respective motion portions, each motion assembly 35 and each counter motion assembly 36 advances parallel to and in the same direction as the tube 3.

Even more specifically, each moving assembly 35 and each opposing moving assembly 36 is configured to contact the tube 3 as it advances along its respective moving portion of the respective conveying path.

More specifically, each motion assembly 35 and counter motion assembly 36 comprises:
a half shell 37 adapted to contact the tube 3 and to at least partially define the shape of the packaging container 2;
- one of a sealing element 38 or a counter-sealing element 39 adapted to seal the tube 3 transversely in a known manner between adjacent packaging containers 2 in order to obtain a transverse seal portion 6, and - preferably, but not necessarily, one of a cutting element (not shown, but known as such) or a counter-cutting element (not shown, but known as such) for cutting the tube 3 transversely in such known manner between adjacent packaging containers 2, in particular between the respective transverse seal portions 6.

In particular, each half shell 37 is adapted to be controlled between a working position and a rest position by a drive assembly (not shown). In particular, each half shell 37 is adapted to be controlled to a working position with the respective motion assembly 35 or the respective counter motion assembly 36 advancing along the respective motion portion during use.

With particular reference to Figures 1 and 2, the isolation chamber 10 comprises an exit opening for allowing the tube 3 to exit the isolation chamber 10 during advancement along path Q. In particular, the exit opening is located downstream of the tube forming station 9 along path Q.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the outlet opening is located in the region of the downstream (end) portion of the isolation chamber 10.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the isolation chamber 10 also comprises an inlet opening opposite the outlet opening, configured to allow the (sterile) web 4 to enter the isolation chamber 10. In particular, the inlet opening is located upstream of the isolation chamber 10.

According to the disclosed preferred non-limiting embodiment, the internal environment 11 comprises (i.e. contains) a sterile gas, in particular sterile air, at a given pressure. Preferentially, but not necessarily, the given pressure is (slightly) higher than ambient pressure to reduce the risk of contaminants and/or pollutants entering the internal environment 11. In particular, the given pressure is about 100 Pa to 500 Pa (0.001 bar to 0.005 bar) higher than ambient pressure.

According to the invention, and with particular reference to Figures 1 to 5, the packaging machine 1 also comprises a separator element 45 which, during use, is movably arranged within the tube 3 and which is designed to divide the tube 3 into a first space 46 and a second space 47 during use.

According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the separator element 45 is disposed within the isolation chamber 10, in particular upstream of the outlet opening along the tube advancement path Q.

More specifically, the first space 46 is delimited by the tube 3, in particular the wall of the tube 3, and by the separator element 45. Furthermore, the first space 46 is open upwardly to the internal environment 11. More specifically, the separator element 45 separates the first space 46 at a downstream part of the first space 46 itself (with respect to the tube advance path Q), in particular at the bottom.

More specifically, the second space 47 is delimited, in use, by the tube 3, in particular the wall of the tube 3, the separator element 45 and the transverse seal portion 6 of one respective packaging container 2 (to be formed).

In other words, the second space 47 extends from the separator element 45 to the transverse seal portion 6 in a direction parallel to the tube advancement path Q (i.e., parallel to the axis L).

In further terms, the separator element 45 separates the second space 47 at an upstream portion of the second space 47 itself (with respect to the tube advance path Q), in particular at the top, and the transverse seal portion 6 separates the second space 47 at a downstream portion of the second space 47 itself (with respect to the tube advance path Q), in particular at the bottom.

More specifically, the first space 46 is disposed upstream of the second space 47 along the tube advancement path Q. Even more specifically, the first space 46 is disposed upstream of the separator element 45 along the tube advancement path Q, and the second space 47 is disposed downstream of the separator element 45 along the tube advancement path Q. In the particular example shown, the second space 47 is disposed below the first space 46.

Advantageously, and with particular reference to Figures 1 and 2, the packaging machine 1 comprises a sterilizing gas supply device 48 (only partially shown to the extent necessary for an understanding of the disclosed invention) configured to direct at least a main flow of sterilizing gas into the second space 47 in such a way that the gas pressure of the sterilizing gas in the second space 47 is higher than the gas pressure of the sterilizing gas present in the isolation chamber 10 and/or the internal environment 11 and/or the first space 46.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the sterilization gas supply 48 is also adapted (configured) to direct a further flow of sterilization gas (not specifically shown) into the isolation chamber 10 and/or the internal environment 11 during use.

In particular, the second space 47 defines a high pressure zone within the tube 3, and the first space 46 defines a low pressure zone within the tube 3.

In the context of the present application, a high pressure zone is understood as one in which the internal pressure is in the range of about 5 kPa to 40 kPa (0.05 bar to 0.40 bar), in particular about 10 kPa to 30 kPa (0.10 bar to 0.30 bar) higher than the ambient pressure (i.e. the pressure in the second space 47 is in the range of about 5 kPa to 40 kPa (0.05 bar to 0.40 bar), in particular about 10 kPa to 30 kPa (0.10 bar to 0.30 bar) higher than the ambient pressure). In other words, the second space 47 is at an overpressure with respect to the first space 46.

A low pressure zone is understood as one in which the pressure is slightly higher than the ambient pressure. In particular, slightly higher than the ambient pressure means that the pressure is preferably in the range of 100 Pa to 500 Pa (0.001 bar to 0.005 bar) higher than the ambient pressure.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the first space 46 is fluidly connected (directly) to the internal environment 11. Thus, sterilizing gas present in the first space 46 can flow to the internal environment 11.

In particular, the tube 3 (and its intermediates) is at least partially within the isolation chamber 10 (in particular, within the internal environment 11).

Preferentially, the pressure in the first space 46 is (substantially) equal to a given pressure present in the isolation chamber 10, in particular in the internal environment 11.

According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the separator element 45 is, in use, positioned downstream of the initial level along the tube advance path Q. In other words, the separator element 45 is positioned below the point from which the seam portion 23 extends in a downstream direction (with respect to the tube advance path Q). In yet other words, the separator element 45 is positioned below the location at which the lateral edges of the web 4 are overlapped to form the seam portion 23.

Furthermore, in use, the filling device 14, in particular the filling pipe 31, is adapted (configured) to direct the pourable product into the second space 47. Thus, in use, the second space 47 contains the pourable product and pressurized sterilizing gas that is directed into the second space 47. The pressurized sterilizing gas provides the required hydrostatic pressure necessary for the correct formation of the packaging container 2.

Advantageously, but not necessarily, and with particular reference to Figures 1 to 5, the sterilization gas supply device 48 comprises a gas supply pipe 49 configured to direct a main flow of sterilization gas into the second space 47, in other words, during use, the main flow of sterilization gas enters the second space 47 via the gas supply pipe 49.

In particular, the gas supply pipe 49 comprises an outlet 50 configured to allow a main flow of sterilizing gas out of the gas supply pipe 49, in particular into the second space 47.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the gas supply pipe 49 also includes a collar portion 51 surrounding and/or delimiting the outlet 50.

In particular, the gas supply pipe 49, in particular the outlet 50 and/or the collar portion 51, is positioned upstream of the separation element 45 along the tube advancement path Q.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the gas supply pipe 49 comprises at least a main section 52 which, in use, extends within the tube 3. In particular, the main section 52 extends parallel to the main pipe section 32 and preferentially, but not necessarily, coaxial therewith.

According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the main portion 52 supports and/or comprises the outlet 50 and/or the collar portion 51.

In the particular example shown, the fill pipe 31 extends at least partially into the gas supply pipe 49. Alternatively, the gas supply pipe 49 can extend at least partially into the fill pipe 31.

More specifically, at least the main pipe section 32 extends at least partially within the main section 52.

In particular, the cross-sectional diameter of the main pipe section 32 is smaller than the cross-sectional diameter of the main section 52.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the gas supply pipe 49 and the filling pipe 31 define/delimit an annular conduit 53 for the main flow of sterilizing gas supplied to the second space 47. In particular, the annular conduit 53 is delimited by the inner circumferential surface of the gas supply pipe 49 and the outer circumferential surface of the filling pipe 31.

According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the separator element 45 comprises a passage 57, in particular having a circular cross-sectional shape, configured to allow the main flow to enter the second space 47 via the passage 57. In particular, the passage 57 is arranged, in use, substantially coaxially with the filling pipe 31 and/or the gas supply pipe 49, in particular with the outlet 50, and/or with the longitudinal axis M and/or with the longitudinal axis L.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the filling pipe 31, and in particular the main pipe section 32, extends through the passage 57 into the second space 47.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, a central rim portion 58 of the separator element 45 separates the passageway 57, which together with the filling pipe 31, and in particular the main pipe portion 32, defines and/or separates a ring-shaped channel 59 through which, during use, the main flow of sterilizing gas enters the second space 47.

In particular, during use, the main flow of gas leaves the gas supply pipe 49 through the outlet 50 and enters the second space 47 through the ring-shaped channel 59.

Advantageously, the separator element 45 is arranged such that the separator element 45 is adapted to move along a first direction D1 and a second direction D2 opposite to the first direction D1. The first direction D1 and the second direction D2 are (substantially) parallel to the longitudinal axis L and/or the tube 3 and/or the longitudinal axis M. Furthermore, the separator element 45 is adapted (configured) to move at least between a first position and a second position, in particular between a first end position and a second end position. In particular, in use, when moving along the first direction D1 and the second direction D2, the separator element 45 moves towards and away from the gas supply pipe 49, respectively.

According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the first location is upstream of the second location along the tube advancement path Q. In the particular, non-limiting embodiment shown, the separator element 45 is configured to move downward from the first location to the second location and upward from the second location to the first location.

As particularly disclosed below, the first and second positions of the separator element 45 are separated and/or defined by respective portions of the packaging machine 1.

According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the separator element 45 is also adapted to move along a third direction D3 and a fourth direction D4 opposite to the third direction D3. The third direction D3 and the fourth direction D4 are transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the longitudinal axis L and/or the longitudinal axis M and/or the first direction D1 and/or the second direction D2.

Advantageously, the separator element 45 comprises a main engagement portion 60 configured to abut against a main abutment portion 61 of the gas supply pipe 49 or the filling pipe 31 (of the gas supply pipe 49 in the particular case shown in Figures 1 to 5) when the separator element 45 is in the first position.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the primary abutment portion 61 and/or the primary engagement portion 60 have an annular shape.

Advantageously, the primary abutment portion 61 and/or the primary engagement portion 60 are designed such that, when the separator element 45 is in the first position, there are one or more openings 62 and/or one or more channels between the primary abutment portion 61 and the primary engagement portion 60.

Advantageously, the openings 62 and/or the channels are configured to establish a fluid connection between the internal environment 11 and the gas supply pipe 49 and/or the second space 47 via the channels and/or openings 62, in particular such that an auxiliary flow of gas can be generated between the main abutment 61 and the main engagement 60 with the separator element 45 in the first position during use. In this way, the presence of the auxiliary flow is guaranteed independent of the position of the separator element 45. Moreover, this means that there is no variation between the presence of the auxiliary flow and its complete interruption, as is the case for state-of-the-art packaging container devices as described in the introduction. It should be noted that the effective auxiliary flow depends on the distance of the separator element 45 from the main abutment 61, but these variations introduce significantly less instability than when there is an auxiliary flow sometimes and sometimes not.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the collar portion 51 has a primary abutment portion 61, which faces the separator element 45, in particular the primary engagement portion 60.

According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the separator element 45 comprises a main part 63 facing the gas supply pipe 49, in particular the outlet 50 and/or the collar part 51. In particular, the main part 63 bears and/or comprises and/or supports the main engagement part 60.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the main portion 63 comprises and/or is provided with a passage 57.

According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, and with particular reference to FIG. 4, the separator element 45 comprises one or more spacer elements 64 projecting facing the main abutment 61 and/or the gas supply pipe 49. In particular, the spacer elements 64 support and/or comprise and/or define the main engagement portion 60, in particular during the joint operation.

In particular, the spacer element 64 protrudes from the main portion 62.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, each spacer element 64 has an arcuate profile.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the spacer elements 64 are spaced apart from one another about the passage 58 so as to surround the passage 58 and form the opening 62. In particular, adjacent spacer elements 64 do not contact one another to form the opening 62.

According to an alternative embodiment not shown, adjacent elements 64 may be connected to one another by bridge portions that also partially delimit their respective openings 62.

In use, with the separator element 45 in the first position, the spacer element 64 ensures that there is a space between the main portion 63 and the collar portion 51, and the opening 62 ensures that an auxiliary flow of sterilizing gas can flow with the separator element 45 also in the first position.

Alternatively or additionally, the primary engagement portion 60 and/or the primary abutment portion 61 include one or more grooves that define one or more channels.

According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, and with particular reference to Figures 3 and 5, the packaging machine 1 further comprises a support element 65 having an auxiliary abutment 66, and the separator element 45 comprises, in particular on the side opposite the main engagement portion 60, an auxiliary engagement portion 67 configured to abut against the auxiliary abutment 66 when the separator element 45 is in the second position.

In particular, the separator element 45 is interposed between the primary abutment 61 and the auxiliary abutment 66. Even more specifically, during use, as the separator element 45 moves along the first direction D1 and the second direction D2, the separator element 45 moves toward the primary abutment 61 and the auxiliary abutment 66, respectively.

According to the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the separator element 45 is interposed between the gas supply pipe 49 and the support element 65. Thus, the movement of the separator element 45 along the first direction D1 and the second direction D2 is bounded therebetween by the gas supply pipe 49 and the support element 65, respectively.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the support element 65 is connected to the filling pipe 31 and/or the gas supply pipe 49. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the filling pipe 31 is connected to the filling pipe 31, in particular to the main pipe section 32, and projects towards the gas supply pipe 49.

According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, a first end 68 of the support element 65 is connected to the filling pipe 31, and a second end 69 of the support element 65 opposite the first end 68 is provided with an auxiliary abutment 66.

In particular, when the sterilizing gas supply 48 is deactivated and the second space 47 does not contain pressurized sterilizing gas, the separator element 45 is supported by and/or "sits" on the support element 65.

According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the support element 65 has a frusto-conical shape and is hollow. In particular, the support element 65 also comprises a number of apertures 70 for the main flow of sterilizing gas.

According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, and with particular reference to Figs. 2 and 5, the separator element 45 is designed to provide, in use, at least one fluid channel 71, in particular having an annular shape, for fluidly connecting the second space 47 and the first space 46 in cooperation with the tube 3, allowing, in use, a direct leakage flow of sterilizing gas from the second space 47 to the first space 46. In particular, in use, sterilizing gas leaks from the second space 47 (high pressure zone) to the first space 46 (low pressure zone) via the fluid channel 71. By providing the fluid channel 71, it is possible to control the gas pressure in the second space 47 with improved precision.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the separator element 45 is designed such that, in use, a fluid channel 71 is provided by a gap between the inner surface of the tube 3 and the separator element 45, particularly the peripheral portion of the separator element 45.

According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the separator element 45 has a radial extension that is smaller than the inner diameter of the tube 3.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the sterilizing gas supply 48 is configured to allow a variable main flow of sterilizing gas (i.e., adapted to control a variable flow rate) by maintaining a substantially constant gas pressure in the second space 47 at various flow rates.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the sterilization gas supply device 48 is adapted to vary the main flow of sterilization gas depending on the volume of sterilization gas flowing from the second space 47 to the first space 46, in particular via at least the fluid channel 71.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the sterilizing gas supply 48 is adapted (configured) to control the gas pressure in the second space 47 to a range of 5 kPa to 40 kPa (0.05 bar to 0.40 bar), in particular 10 kPa to 30 kPa (0.10 bar to 0.30 bar) higher than ambient pressure.

Advantageously, but not necessarily, and with particular reference to Figures 1 and 2, the sterilization gas supply 48 comprises a closed sterilization gas circuit that runs from the internal environment 11 into the second space 47 and back to the internal environment 11. This allows the overall structure of the packaging machine 1 to be simplified, particularly with regard to the control and supply of sterilization gas.

According to the disclosed preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the sterilization gas supply 48 is adapted to draw sterilization gas from the internal environment 11, pressurize (compress) the sterilization gas, and direct the pressurized (compressed) sterilization gas into the second space 47.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the sterilization gas supply device 48 comprises at least one pump device 74 configured to draw sterilization gas from the internal environment 11, pressurize (compress) the sterilization gas, and direct the pressurized sterilization gas into the second space 47.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the pump device 74 is a rotating machine, and more specifically a compressor.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, the sterilizing gas supply 48 also includes:
a gas conduit 75 in direct fluid communication with the pumping device 74 and with the gas supply pipe 49, and a gas conduit 76 in direct fluid communication with the internal environment 11 and with the pumping device 74;
Equipped with.

Thus, during use, sterilizing gas is drawn from the internal environment 11 via gas conduit 76, pressurized (compressed) by pump device 74, and then directed to the second space 47 via gas conduit 75 and gas supply pipe 49.

In use, the packaging machine 1 forms a packaging container 2 filled with a pourable product. In particular, the packaging machine 1 forms the packaging container 2 from a tube 3 formed from a web 4, the tube 3 being continuously filled with the pourable product.

In more detail, the operation of the packaging machine 1 includes:
a first advancement step for advancing the web 4 along a path P,
a tube forming and sealing step, during which the web 4 is formed into a tube 3 and the tube 3 is longitudinally sealed, in particular along the seam portion 23;
a second advancement step in which the tube 3 advances along a path Q,
- a filling step, during which the tube 3 is filled with a pourable product, and - a packaging forming step, during which the packaging 2 is formed from the tube 3, in particular by shaping (the respective (lower) part) of the tube 3, sealing and cutting the tube 3 transversely.

More specifically, the tube forming and sealing step includes the sub-steps of gradually overlapping the lateral edges of the tube 3 to form the seam portion 23, and sealing the tube 3 longitudinally.

The filling step includes the sub-step of directing the pourable product through the filling pipe 31 into the second space 47.

During the package forming step, the package 2 is formed by the operation of the package forming unit 15, which receives the tube 3 after the tube forming and sealing step. In particular, during the package forming step, the motion assembly 35 and the counter motion assembly 36 advance along their respective conveying paths. As the motion assembly 35 and their respective counter motion assembly 36 advance along their respective motion parts, the motion assembly 35 and their respective counter motion assembly 36 cooperate with each other to shape, transversely seal and preferably, but not necessarily, transversely cut the advancing tube 3 to form the package 2. During the package forming step, the pourable product is directed to the second space 47 to obtain the filled package 2.

The operation of the packaging machine 1 also includes a pressurization step in which sterilizing gas, in particular pressurized (compressed) sterilizing gas, is directed into the second space 47.

More specifically, during the pressurization step, the sterilizing gas is directed, in particular continuously, into the second space 47 so as to obtain a gas pressure in the second space 47 in the range of 5 kPa to 40 kPa (0.05 bar to 0.40 bar), in particular 10 kPa to 30 kPa (0.10 bar to 0.30 bar) higher than ambient pressure.

In particular, the second space 47 contains the pourable product and pressurized sterilizing gas.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, during the pressurization step, the secondary flow of sterilizing gas flows between the primary abutment portion 61 and the primary engagement portion 60, regardless of the position of the separator element 45 between the first portion and the second position.

Preferentially, but not necessarily, a leakage flow of sterilizing gas is established from the second space 47 to the first space 46 via the fluid channel 71.

According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, during the pressurization step, sterilizing gas is drawn from the isolation chamber 10, in particular from the internal environment 11, pressurized (compressed), and then directed, in particular continuously, into the second space 47.

In even more detail, during the pressurization step, the pump device 74 draws sterilizing gas from the isolation chamber 10, in particular from the internal environment 11, pressurizes (compresses) the sterilizing gas, and directs the pressurized (compressed) gas through the gas supply pipe 49 to the second space 47.

The advantages of the packaging machine 1 according to the present invention will become clear from the above description.

In particular, the provision of the openings 62 and/or channels ensures that there is always an auxiliary gas flow between the main abutment 61 and the main engagement 60, even when the separator element 45 is in the first position. This improves the stability of the entire system, since a complete blockage of the auxiliary flow (as in state-of-the-art packaging machines) would reduce stability. Thus, control of the packaging machine 1 is made easier relative to state-of-the-art packaging machines.

Obviously, modifications may be made to the packaging machine 1 described herein without departing from the scope of protection defined in the appended claims.

According to alternative embodiments not shown, the gas supply pipe 49 can replace the fill pipe 31 and the fill pipe 31 can replace the gas supply pipe 49.

Claims (14)

A packaging machine (1) for forming a plurality of sealed packages (2) filled with a pourable product, comprising:
a conveying device (7) adapted to advance the web of packaging material (4) along an advancement path (P);
- an isolation chamber (10) that separates an internal environment (11) containing a sterilizing gas from an external environment (12);
- a tube forming and sealing device (13) arranged at least partially within said isolation chamber (10) and adapted to form and longitudinally seal, in use, a tube (3) extending along a longitudinal axis (L) from said web (4) of advancing packaging material, said conveying device (7) also being adapted to advance said tube (3) along a tube advancement path (Q);
a separator element (45) movably arranged within said tube (3) and designed to divide, in use, said tube (3) into a first space (46) in fluid connection with said internal environment (11) and a second space (47) arranged downstream of said first space (46) along said tube advancement path (Q);
a filling device (14) having a filling pipe (31) that, in use, is arranged within said tube (3) and adapted to, in use, direct a pourable product via said filling pipe (31) into said second space (47);
a sterilizing gas supply device (48) having a gas supply pipe (49) arranged in use within said tube (3), configured to direct a main flow of sterilizing gas via said gas supply pipe (49) into said second space ( 47 ) in such a way that the gas pressure in said second space (47) is higher than the gas pressure in said isolation chamber (10);
- said separator element (45) is arranged so as to be adapted to move in a first direction (D1) and in a second direction (D2) opposite to said first direction (D1), said first direction (D1) and said second direction (D2) being parallel to said longitudinal axis (L) of said tube (3), at least between a first position and a second position, said first position being upstream of said second position along said tube advancement path (Q);
- said gas supply pipe (49) or said filling pipe (31) comprises a main abutment (61);
- said separator element (45) comprises a primary engagement portion (60) adapted to abut against said primary abutment portion (61) when said separator element (45) is in said first position;
- said primary abutment portion (61) and/or said primary engagement portion (60) are designed such that, with said separator element (45) in said first position, there is at least one opening (62) and/or at least one channel between said primary abutment portion (61) and said primary engagement portion (60);
- in use, with the separator element (45) in the first position, said at least one opening (62) and/or said at least one channel is configured to establish a fluid connection between said internal environment (11) and said gas supply pipe (49) via said at least one opening (62) and/or said at least one channel in order to generate a secondary flow of gas between said primary abutment part (61) and said primary engagement part (60);
Packaging machine (1). the separator element (45) comprises at least one spacer element (64) protruding towards the main abutment portion (61) and a main portion (63) facing the main abutment portion (61), and when the separator element (45) is in the first position, the spacer element (64) ensures that there is a space between the main portion (63) and the main abutment portion (61),
2. The packaging machine of claim 1.
The packaging machine of claim 2, wherein the spacer element (64) has an arcuate profile. 4. The packaging machine according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the separator element (45) comprises a passage (57) configured to allow the main flow to enter the second space (47), and the separator element (45) comprises a plurality of spacer elements (64) arranged to surround the passage (57) and to form at least one opening (62). 5. The packaging machine according to claim 4 , wherein the passage (57) is coaxial with the gas supply pipe (49) and/or the filling pipe (31). The packaging machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the primary engagement portion (60) and/or the primary abutment portion (61) comprises one or more grooves defining one or more channels. The packaging machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the primary abutment portion (61) and/or the primary engagement portion (6 0 ) have an annular shape. 8. The packaging machine according to claim 1, further comprising a support element (65) having an auxiliary abutment portion (66), the separator element (45) comprising an auxiliary engagement portion (67) configured to abut against the auxiliary abutment portion (66) when the separator element (45) is in the second position. The packaging machine according to claim 8, wherein the support element (65) is connected to the filling pipe (31) and/or the gas supply pipe (49). The packaging machine according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the separator element (45) is arranged in the isolation chamber (10). the tube forming and sealing device (13) comprising a tube forming unit (22) configured to gradually fold the web of packaging material (4) into the tube (3) by overlapping transverse edges of the web of packaging material (4) with one another to form a longitudinal seam portion (23);
the longitudinal seam portion (23) extends downstream along the tube advance path (Q) from an initial level;
the separation element (45) is arranged in the region of the initial level and/or in a region downstream of the initial level along the tube advancement path (Q);
A packaging machine according to any one of claims 1 to 10. The packaging machine according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the separator element (45) is designed to provide, in use, at least one fluid channel (71) bounded by the periphery of the separator element (45) and the inner surface of the tube (3) that advances in use, for fluidly connecting the second space (47) with the first space (46) and for allowing leakage flow of sterilizing gas from the second space (47) to the first space (46) in use. A packaging machine as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the separator element (45) is adapted to move along a direction perpendicular to the advancing tube (3) during use. The packaging machine according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein at least a portion of the gas supply pipe (49) and at least a portion of the filling pipe (30) are parallel to each other.

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