ES2972400T3 - Improvements in and related to a packaging apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

An apparatus and packaging method are provided. The packaging apparatus comprises: a support platform for supporting packaging containers placed thereon, the support platform comprising a support portion movable between a first position and a second position; and a belt transport arrangement for transporting packaging containers away from the support platform in a first transport direction; the belt transport arrangement comprising a belt arrangement comprising a pair of belts, the pair of belts defining opposite contact surfaces for contacting the packaging containers. The apparatus is operable between: a first configuration in which the support portion is in the first position to support one or more packaging containers placed thereon; and a second configuration in which the support portion is in the second position and the contact surfaces of the straps engage one or more packaging containers. (Automatic translation with Google Translate, without legal value)

Description

DESCRIPTION

Improvements in and related to a packaging apparatus

field of invention

The present invention relates to a packaging apparatus and packaging methods.

Background of the invention

One type of known packaging apparatus that can be used to produce sealed packaging containers comprises a sealing station for sealing a film to packaging containers. In such apparatus, it is known to use transfer arms to transport the packaging containers into, through and from the sealing station. Conventionally, conveyor belts are used to separate packaging containers so that transfer arms can be attached to them. The need to separate packaging containers in this way has a limiting effect on the speed at which the packaging apparatus can be operated and ultimately on processing capacity.

Packaging containers are available in various shapes and sizes. The sealing tools included in the sealing stations also vary in configuration. Typically, the transfer arms are replaceable so that they can be interchanged with each other to accommodate a change in the packaging container or sealing tool. Replacing transfer arms may result in considerable periods of time during which the appliance is not operational. Document US2011072764A1 relates to a method and apparatus for sealing containers.

Accordingly, the present invention aims to address at least one disadvantage associated with a known packaging apparatus, regardless of whether or not it is described herein.

Summary of the invention

According to the present invention, there is provided an apparatus and a method as set forth in the appended claims. Other features of the invention will be apparent from the dependent claims and the following description.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a packaging apparatus comprising:

a support platform for supporting packaging containers positioned thereon; and

a packaging container positioning apparatus for positioning packaging containers on the support platform,

comprising the packaging container positioning apparatus:

one or more rails, each of which forms a path for the transport devices; multiple individually controllable transport devices comprising at least a first transport device and a second transport device, wherein each transport device is mounted on a rail to move along the path; and

a control system configured to control the transport devices,

wherein the control system is configured to control each transport device to: engage a packaging container, move along the path in a first transport direction and release the packaging container, to position the packaging container on the support platform.

In this way, a packaging apparatus is provided that can facilitate the positioning and separation of packaging containers using individual transport devices. This can be advantageous as the packaging containers can be moved and accelerated smoothly, thereby reducing the instantaneous force applied to the packaging container that may otherwise cause the contents of the packaging container to spill or shift.

Furthermore, although the maximum operating speed of prior art conveyor separation systems may be limited by friction forces between the containers and the conveyor, similar problems may not arise when conveying devices are used. Therefore, the present construction can enable high positioning speed and high processing capacity of packaging containers.

Furthermore, by providing a control system configured to control the transport devices to engage the packaging containers, safe pick-up and movement of the packaging containers can be provided. The fact that the transport devices are controlled to release the packaging containers can facilitate precise positioning. That is, releasing the packaging container can be an active movement of disengaging the packaging container, to provide highly precise positioning on the support platform.

Suitably, the packaging apparatus comprises an inlet feeding assembly, the control system being configured to control each transport device to engage a container in the feeding assembly.

In this way, the packaging containers can be moved from the infeed to their position on the support platform using only the transport devices. As explained above, the use of conveying devices can significantly increase the speed at which containers can be positioned, thereby significantly reducing the time from initial engagement of the container in the infeed to positioning. end on the support platform.

Suitably, the control system is configured to control the transport devices to engage the moving containers. Suitably, the control system is configured to control a transport device so that its speed matches the speed of a container with which it is to be coupled in the feeding assembly.

The packaging containers in the feeding assembly may be in motion and, in this way, coupling in the feeding assembly using transport devices can facilitate a construction that mitigates the need to change the speed of the packaging containers in the assembly. of feeding and which can avoid the need to stop the containers in the feeding assembly.

Suitably, the packaging apparatus comprises a feeding assembly comprising a feeding belt. The control system may be configured to control each transport device to engage a container on the feed belt. The feed assembly may comprise a first feed belt and a second feed belt. The second feed belt may be arranged to receive packaging containers from the first feed belt. The control system may be configured to control each transport device to engage a container on the second feed belt. The packaging container positioning apparatus may be configured to receive a continuous input feed of packaging containers from the feed assembly. The feeding assembly may be configured to provide a continuous infeed or supply of packaging containers to the packaging container positioning apparatus. That is, the packaging apparatus may comprise a continuously operating feeding belt. In conventional packaging apparatus, step movement is required and thus, in known systems, the feeding belt is not operated continuously, but is operated as a step movement belt. The packaging apparatus is configured so that a stepper belt may not be required.

Feed belts can provide a robust and reliable feed to the packaging apparatus. Engaging the packaging containers on the infeed belt can avoid the need for the packaging containers to be transferred to another surface from which they can be picked up. Furthermore, the feed belts can be operated at a high travel speed. This high travel speed, combined with the ability of the transport devices to engage the container in the inlet feed assembly, can allow rapid movement and positioning of the packaging container.

Suitably, the packaging apparatus comprises a control system configured to control the conveying devices so that their speed and/or acceleration matches that of the feeding belt.

Matching the speed and/or acceleration to that of the feed belt can minimize instantaneous forces on packaging containers and their contents. This can reduce the likelihood of spills, shifting, or damage to the contents of the packaging container. Furthermore, this may improve the processing capacity of the apparatus, as the packaging containers may not need to be accelerated (or, in particular, decelerated) to be engaged by the transport devices. As noted above, this deceleration can cause the packaging container to slide. The present construction can avoid this problem and is therefore highly advantageous. Furthermore, the need to stop the feeding belt can be avoided.

Suitably, each transport device comprises an engagement member that is movable between a first retracted position and a second extended position, which facilitates engagement and release of a packaging container.

In this way, the transport devices may not impede the progress of the packaging containers along the feeding belt, but may then be moved from the retracted position to the extended position to engage the packaging container. . Following movement of the packaging container into position, the coupling member may then be retracted to allow further movement of the packaging container. Furthermore, the fact that the coupling member can be moved back to the retracted position may allow the transport device to be moved in a direction opposite to the first transport direction. That is, after retraction of the coupling member, the transport device can be moved back to a position where it can be coupled to an additional upstream container.

The coupling member may comprise a pair of jaws. The coupling member may be height adjustable, that is, adjustable in the vertical direction. In this way, it can adapt to packaging containers of different heights. The transport device may comprise an arm. The coupling member may be mounted on the arm.

The conveying devices may be configured to accommodate a number of packaging containers of different shapes and sizes. The transport devices may be configured so that a single coupling member can be coupled to packaging containers of different sizes, for example by adjusting its height. The transport devices may have interchangeable coupling members so that the coupling members can be changed to accommodate different shapes and sizes.

Suitably, the packaging container positioning apparatus comprises two rails, one of which forms a path for transport devices.

Suitably, the one or more rails are a pair of separate rails on which the transport devices are mounted. Suitably, at least one transport device is mounted on each rail.

In this way, by not mounting all the transport devices on a single rail, the transport devices on one of the rails can move in the first transport direction and, at the same time, the transport devices mounted on the other of the Rails can move in a direction opposite to the first direction of transport. That is, while the transport devices mounted on one of the rails move the containers into position on the support platform, the transport devices mounted on the other of the rails can return upstream to be ready to attach to the containers. subsequent packaging.

Suitably, a first transport device is mounted on a first rail and a second transport device is mounted on a second rail.

In this way, the first transport device can move in the first transport direction while the second transport device can simultaneously move in a direction opposite to the first transport direction.

Conveniently, multiple transport devices are mounted on each rail.

Such a construction may allow multiple packaging containers to be transported in the first transport direction and positioned on the support platform using transport devices mounted on a first rail between the rails before the transport devices mounted on a second rail. between the rails are used to move the subsequent containers in the first direction of transport. After positioning the containers, then the transport devices mounted on the first rail between the rails can move in the direction opposite to the first transport direction, while the transport devices mounted on the second rail transport the containers in the first direction, in preparation for docking subsequent containers. In this way, the provision of multiple containers on each rail can increase the processing capacity of the apparatus and the operating speed.

Suitably, the apparatus is configured such that the transport devices move cyclically with a transport device on the first rail moved in a first direction while a transport device on the second rail moves in a second opposite direction and vice versa.

Advantageously, cyclical movement in this manner can increase the processing capacity of the apparatus and the speed at which the packaging containers can be positioned.

Suitably, the control system is configured to:

control a first transport device to:

engaging a packaging container, moving in the first direction along the path and releasing the packaging container; and, at least partially simultaneously,

control a second transport device to:

releasing a packaging container, moving in a second direction along the path, opposite to the first direction, and engaging a packaging container.

By means of this construction, a high processing capacity of the device can be achieved.

Suitably, a first set of transport devices is mounted on a first rail and a second set of transport devices is mounted on a second rail. The first set of transport devices may comprise one, two, three or more transport devices. The second set of transport devices may comprise one, two, three or more transport devices.

By this construction, the first set of transport devices can be controlled to position a first set of packaging containers on the support platform and the second set of transport devices can be controlled to position a second set of packaging containers on the support platform. medium. The second set of packaging containers may be positioned after the first set.

Suitably, the control system is configured to control the transport devices so that there is always a transport device positioned upstream of the support platform ready to be attached to a packaging container.

Suitably, the control system is configured to:

(i) controlling a first set of transport devices so that each engages a packaging container, moves in the first direction along the path and releases the packaging container; and,

(ii) controlling a second set of transport devices so that each engages a packaging container, moves in the first direction along the path and releases the packaging container; and

(iii) controlling the first set of transport devices to move in a second direction along the trajectory, opposite to the first direction, after completing operation (i) while the second set of transport devices is performing the operation (ii); and

(iv) controlling the second set of transport devices to move in a second direction along the trajectory, opposite to the first direction, after completing operation (ii) while the first set of transport devices is performing the operation (i).

This is advantageous for reasons that will be evident from what is stated above and can achieve a high processing capacity of the apparatus.

Suitably, the control system is configured to control a transport device to adjust its position advancing in a first transport direction after releasing a packaging container. Adjusting the position may move the transport device out of the way of an incoming transport device. In this way, close-range positioning of the packaging containers can be facilitated.

Suitably, the control system is configured to control the transport devices so that the packaging containers are transported and positioned on the support platform one at a time. Suitably, the feeding assembly is configured to provide continuous feeding of packaging containers to the packaging container positioning apparatus, and the control system is configured to control the conveying devices so that there is always a conveying device ready to pick up a packaging container and transport the same to the support platform.

In this way, the positioning and spacing of the packaging containers on the support platform can be precisely controlled, while a continuous flow of packaging containers can be collected from a feeding assembly, which can allow for efficient operation.

Suitably, the packaging apparatus is configured so that the packaging containers are transported away from the support platform as a batch of two or more.

Suitably, the packaging apparatus further comprises a belt transport arrangement for transporting packaging containers away from the support platform in a first transport direction.

Advantageously, the belt transport arrangement can replace prior art transfer arms. The belt conveying arrangement can be used to transport packaging containers of various shapes and sizes. Unlike transfer arms, it is not necessary to position the packaging containers in specific compartments with which to mate the packaging containers. Conversely, any part of the length of the belt can be used to contact and transport packaging containers. Additionally, it is not necessary to change the tapes to accommodate a change in shape or size in the packaging container, which can minimize the time during which the apparatus is not operational.

The positioning of the packaging containers, relative to each other, which may be important for subsequent processing, for example sealing at a sealing station, may be determined by their positioning and spacing on the support platform which are determined by the transport devices controlled by the control system. The belt transport arrangement may be configured to attach to the containers and transport them from the support platform in a manner that maintains the separation between the containers as they were on the support platform.

Suitably, the belt transport arrangement is configured to transport containers from the support platform as a batch maintaining separation between containers.

Suitably, the belt conveying arrangement comprises a pair of belts, wherein the pair of belts defines opposing contact surfaces, optionally comprising an adjustable tilt angle, for contacting the packaging containers.

The pair of tapes defining opposing contact surfaces may allow the packaging containers to contact any length of the tapes. Therefore, the tapes can fit a range of packaging container shapes and sizes. The adjustable tilt angle can allow the tilt angle to be adjusted to match the tilt angle of the packaging containers. This can ensure safe contact with such containers and stable transportation.

Suitably, the belt transport arrangement comprises: (i) a first belt region for contacting the packaging containers to transport the packaging containers away from the support platform; and (ii) a second belt region, downstream of the first belt region, for transporting the packaging containers away from the first belt region. The first tape region and the second tape region can be controlled independently. The second tape region may be controllable to align with the first tape region.

Such a construction may be advantageous in transporting packaging containers positioned away from the support platform, and to a subsequent part of the packaging apparatus, such as, for example, a sealing station.

Suitably, the belt transport arrangement comprises a pair of belts extending across both the first belt region and the second belt region, and wherein: (i) the spacing of the belts is adjustable in the first tape region; and (ii) the spacing of the ribbons is adjustable in the second ribbon region; and the adjustment of the separation of the ribbons in any region is independent of the adjustment of the separation in the other region.

Alternatively, the belt transport arrangement may comprise a first belt region comprising a first pair of belts, wherein the first pair of belts define opposing contact surfaces, optionally comprising an adjustable tilt angle, for contacting with packaging containers. Suitably, the belt conveying arrangement comprises a second belt region comprising a second pair of belts, wherein the second pair of belts define opposite contact surfaces for contacting the packaging containers, optionally comprising an angle adjustable tilt, wherein the second pair of belts is provided downstream of the first pair of belts along the first transport direction, and is controllable to align with the first pair of belts.

Suitably, the belt conveying arrangement may be configured such that, in one arrangement, the spacing of the belts in the first belt region is such as to allow packaging containers to pass freely between the belts, while the spacing the tapes in the second tape region is such that the tapes are free from other moving parts of the packaging apparatus, for example, the tools of a sealing station.

Suitably, the belt conveying arrangement may be configured such that, in another arrangement, the spacing of the belts in the first and second belt regions is such as to allow the belts to be coupled to the packaging containers in such a manner. that the belts can transport the containers.

Suitably, the belt transport arrangement is adjustable to adjust the spacing between the contact surfaces of the belts in the second belt region, and wherein the belt transport arrangement is configurable, for example, repeatedly , in: a first configuration in which the separation between the contact surfaces of the tapes in the second tape region is substantially the same as the separation between the contact surfaces of the tapes in the first tape region; and a second configuration in which the separation between the contact surfaces of the tapes in the second tape region is greater than the separation between the contact surfaces of the tapes in the first tape region.

Suitably, the packaging apparatus comprises a processing station downstream of a first belt region. Suitably, the processing station is a sealing station.

Suitably, the packaging apparatus comprises a sealing station. Suitably, the sealing station comprises one sealing tool which is interchangeable with another to suit the containers to be sealed.

Advantageously, although the sealing tool provided in the sealing station can be interchanged to seal packaging containers of different sizes, it is not necessary to change the belt transport arrangement, and the transport devices can be configured to adapt to a series of packaging containers of different sizes. Therefore, the conveying devices and belt conveying arrangement may be advantageous when used in a packaging apparatus comprising a sealing station.

Suitably, the belt transport arrangement is configurable to transport containers to the sealing station.

Suitably, the support platform comprises a height-adjustable portion.

In this way, the support platform can be moved to a position that facilitates the positioned packaging containers to be transported away from the support platform.

Suitably, the support platform comprises multiple support parts of individually adjustable height. Suitably, the support platform comprises at least two individually height-adjustable support parts, for example, between three and eight parts. Suitably, each is adjustable with a first height corresponding to the height of a feed assembly and a lower second height.

In this way, the parts can be individually moved to a position to allow the packaging containers to be supported thereon, while other parts are in a position that allows the packaging containers to be transported away from the support platform. As a result, this can improve the processing capacity and efficiency of the device.

Suitably, the belt transport arrangement is configured to transport containers to the sealing station in a batch which may have a batch size corresponding to the number of support parts.

Suitably, the belt conveying arrangement is configured to transport containers to the sealing station in a batch having a batch size corresponding to the number of containers that the sealing station can accommodate.

Suitably, the control system is configured to control the conveying devices to position the packaging containers on the support platform with a spacing corresponding to the required spacing between the containers at the sealing station.

Suitably, the belt conveying arrangement is configured to transport the packaging containers from the support platform to the sealing station while maintaining a spacing that corresponds to the required spacing between the containers at the sealing station.

Suitably, the packaging apparatus comprises an apparatus for packaging food.

Suitably, the packaging containers comprise trays.

Suitably, the control system is configured to control the operation of at least one of: a support platform; the belt conveying arrangement; and sealing station; as well as transport devices. Suitably, the control system is configured to control the operation of at least one support platform and a belt transport arrangement, as well as the transport devices.

The apparatus may be configured to perform the method of the second aspect. The apparatus may comprise an apparatus according to the third aspect and may be configured to perform the method of the fourth aspect.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of positioning packaging containers on a support platform using multiple individually controllable transport devices comprising at least a first transport device and a second transport device, in wherein each transport device is mounted on a rail to move along a path formed by the rail, the method comprising the steps of:

attaching a packaging container using a transport device;

moving the transport device along the path in a first transport direction; and

releasing the packaging container, thereby positioning the packaging container on the support platform.

In this way, a packaging container positioning method is provided that can facilitate a positioning and separation of packaging containers using conveying devices. Positioning and separating packaging containers using conveying devices can be advantageous, as the packaging containers can be moved and accelerated smoothly, thereby reducing the instantaneous force applied to the packaging container that may otherwise cause contents of the packaging container from spilling or shifting.

Furthermore, although the maximum operating speed of prior art methods may be limited by friction forces between containers and conveyor belts, no such problem may arise when conveying devices are used. Therefore, the present method can enable high positioning speed and high processing capacity of packaging containers.

Furthermore, the docking step before moving the packaging container can ensure safe pick-up and movement of the packaging container. The packaging container release stage can facilitate precise positioning. That is, the release of the packaging container may be an active disengagement movement with the packaging container, to provide highly precise positioning on the support platform.

The method may comprise any characteristic, as described in relation to the first aspect.

Suitably, the method comprises positioning the packaging containers ready for transport to a sealing station.

Suitably, the method comprises positioning packaging containers containing products, for example, food.

Suitably, the method comprises positioning the packaging containers on the support platform with a spacing corresponding to the required spacing between the containers at the sealing station.

Suitably, the method comprises using an apparatus according to the first aspect. The method may comprise using an apparatus according to the third aspect. The method may comprise performing the method of the fourth aspect. The method may use an apparatus according to the fifth aspect.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a packaging apparatus comprising:

a support platform for supporting packaging containers positioned thereon, the support platform comprising a support portion movable between a first position and a second position;

a belt transport arrangement for transporting packaging containers away from the support platform in a first transport direction;

the belt transport arrangement comprising a first belt arrangement comprising a pair of belts,

the pair of tapes defining opposite contact surfaces for contacting the packaging containers;

in which the apparatus can be operated between:

a first configuration, in which the support part is in the first position to support one or more packaging containers positioned thereon; and

a second configuration, in which the support part is in the second position and the contact surfaces of the tapes engage the one or more packaging containers.

In this way, a packaging apparatus is provided that can facilitate the transport of packaging containers using a belt transport arrangement, instead of transfer arms, as is common in the prior art. Conveying packaging containers using a belt conveying arrangement is advantageous, as the belts can accommodate packaging containers of different shapes and sizes, without the need to replace or modify the belt construction. It is frequently necessary to process containers of different sizes in the packaging apparatus and thus the belt conveying arrangement can save considerable amounts of time during which the apparatus would not be operational. Belt conveying can also be more robust and simpler than conveying using transfer arms. Additionally, the belts may have a smaller profile than the transfer arms, thus facilitating a more compact construction of the apparatus. A belt conveying arrangement may also not require high energy input.

Suitably, the opposing contact surfaces of the tape may be adapted to contact the side surfaces of the packaging containers.

Advantageously, this can accommodate packaging containers of various shapes and sizes. The length and width of the packaging containers may vary substantially, but this may not be a limiting factor for a belt conveying arrangement configured to contact the side surfaces of the packaging containers.

Suitably, the belt transport arrangement comprises: (i) a first belt region for contacting the packaging containers to transport the packaging containers away from the support platform; and (ii) a second belt region, downstream of the first belt region, for transporting the packaging containers away from the first belt region.

Suitably, the belt transport arrangement comprises a pair of belts extending across both the first belt region and the second belt region, and wherein: (i) the spacing of the belts is adjustable in the first tape region; and (ii) the spacing of the ribbons is adjustable in the second ribbon region; and the adjustment of the separation of the ribbons in any region is independent of the adjustment of the separation in the other region.

Advantageously, the independently adjustable belt regions may allow the first belt region to be configured to facilitate a first task, for example, to allow packaging containers to be positioned on the support platform, while The second tape region is configured to facilitate a second task, for example, to allow packaging containers to be sealed at a sealing station. The fact that the two regions are individually adjustable may allow the regions to be adjusted to an optimal position, which may not be the same position for both regions, and may instead depend on the construction of the apparatus. As a single ribbon that extends across both regions, the ribbon moves at the same speed in both regions. Therefore, there is no difference in speed when a packaging container passes from the first belt region to the second belt region, which can be beneficial in ensuring stable transportation.

Suitably, the belt transport arrangement is adjustable to adjust the spacing between the contact surfaces of the belts in the second belt region, and wherein the belt transport arrangement is configurable, for example, repeatedly , in: a first configuration, in which the separation between the contact surfaces of the tapes in the second tape region is substantially the same as the separation between the contact surfaces of the tapes in the first tape region; and a second configuration in which the separation between the contact surfaces of the tapes in the second tape region is greater than the separation between the contact surfaces of the tapes in the first tape region.

Thus, in the first configuration, the regions of the belt can be aligned to allow packaging containers to pass from one region to another. Furthermore, in the second configuration, the tapes in the second tape region can be moved away from other components of the apparatus to allow subsequent packaging operations to be performed.

Alternatively, the belt transport arrangement may comprise an arrangement in which:

(i) the first tape region comprises a first pair of tapes, the first pair of tapes defining opposite contact surfaces for contacting the packaging containers and having an adjustable spacing; and (ii) the second tape region comprises a second pair of tapes, the second pair of tapes defining opposite contact surfaces for contacting the packaging containers and having an adjustable spacing.

Each region having its own pair of tapes can provide a construction in which the spacing is easily adjustable individually.

Suitably, the belt conveying arrangement is adjustable to adjust the spacing between the contact surfaces of the second pair of belts, and wherein the belt arrangement is configurable, for example repeatedly, in: a first configuration, wherein the spacing between the contact surfaces of the second pair of tapes is substantially the same as the spacing between the contact surfaces of the first pair of tapes; and a second configuration, in which the separation between the contact surfaces of the second pair of tapes is greater than the separation between the contact surfaces of the first pair of tapes.

Thus, in the first configuration, the first and second pairs of belts can be aligned to allow packaging containers to pass from one pair of belts to the other. Furthermore, in the second configuration, the second pair of tapes can be moved away from other components of the apparatus to allow subsequent packaging operations to be performed.

Suitably, the belt conveying arrangement comprises a first belt region for transporting packaging containers away from the support platform to a sealing station and a second belt region for transporting packaging containers through a sealing station. .

Suitably, the support platform comprises multiple support parts, each support part being movable between a first position and a second position, the packaging apparatus being operable between: a first configuration, in which the support parts are located in the first position to support one or more packaging containers positioned thereon; and a second configuration, in which the support parts are in the second position and the contact surfaces of the belts engage the one or more packaging containers.

In this way, the support platform can be movable to allow the belt transport arrangement to engage the packaging containers, by contact using the contact surfaces, and transport the containers away from the support platform. The fact that the support platform can move between a first position and a second position can mitigate the need for the belt transport arrangement to perform an equivalent movement that can simplify the construction of the belt transport arrangement.

Suitably, the support parts are configured to move from the first position to the second position simultaneously.

This can be beneficial to allow packaging containers to be transported away from the support platform in a batch.

Suitably, the support parts can be moved from the second position to the first position gradually.

Suitably, the support parts are configured to start moving from the second position to the first position consecutively starting with the most upstream one.

This can be beneficial in increasing the processing capacity of the apparatus, as it can allow one set of packaging containers to begin being transported to the support platform while a previous set is still being transported away from it.

Suitably, the belt transport arrangement is adjustable to adjust the angle of inclination of the contact surfaces of the belts.

This can be advantageous to accommodate packaging containers of different shapes and sizes. By providing an adjustable inclination angle of the contact surfaces of the belts, variable inclination angles of the container can be accommodated. As a result, stable transportation of the packaging containers can be achieved. Suitably, the packaging apparatus comprises a control system configured to control the operation of the support platform and the belt conveying arrangement.

Suitably, the packaging apparatus further comprises a packaging container positioning apparatus for positioning packaging containers on the support platform.

Suitably, the apparatus is configured such that the packaging containers are transported on the support platform, one at a time, and are transported from the support platform, suitably, to a sealing station as a batch of two or more.

Suitably, the packaging container positioning apparatus comprises: one or more rails, each of which forms a path for transport devices; multiple individually controllable transport devices comprising at least a first transport device and a second transport device, each transport device being mounted on a rail to move along the path.

Suitably, the packaging apparatus further comprises a control system configured to control the transport devices, wherein the control system is configured to control each transport device to: engage a packaging container, move along the trajectory in a first transport direction, and releasing the packaging container, to position the packaging container on the support platform.

The control system configured to control the transport devices may comprise part of the packaging container positioning apparatus. The control system may further control the operation of the support platform and the conveyor arrangement.

Such a construction combining a belt conveying arrangement together with a packaging container positioning apparatus comprising conveying devices can provide high processing capacity of the apparatus, since container positioning and container transportation can be fast. Additionally, packaging containers of different shapes and sizes can be positioned and transported with the same apparatus, without the need for downtime for modifications or alterations.

Suitably, the packaging apparatus further comprises a sealing station for sealing packaging containers.

Suitably, the packaging apparatus comprises a control system that controls the operation of a packaging container positioning apparatus, a support platform, a belt conveying arrangement and a sealing station.

Suitably, a packaging apparatus is provided comprising:

a support platform for supporting packaging containers positioned thereon, the support platform comprising a first support portion movable between a first position and a second position; a belt transport arrangement for transporting packaging containers away from the support platform in a first transport direction;

the belt transport arrangement comprising a first belt arrangement comprising a first pair of belts, the first pair of belts defining opposite contact surfaces for contacting the packaging containers,

the support platform being configurable, for example, repeatedly, in:

a first configuration, in which the first support part is in the first position to support one or more packaging containers positioned thereon; and

a second configuration, in which the first support part is in the second position to allow the belt transport arrangement to transport the packaging containers,

wherein the first support portion is movable from the first position to the second position to engage the packaging containers with the contact surfaces of the first pair of belts.

Suitably, a packaging apparatus is provided comprising:

(I) a support platform for supporting packaging containers positioned thereon, the support platform comprising a first support portion movable between a first position and a second position;

(II) a packaging container positioning apparatus for positioning packaging containers on the support platform, the packaging container positioning apparatus comprising:

one or more rails, each of which forms a path for the transport devices; multiple individually controllable transport devices comprising at least a first transport device and a second transport device, each transport device being mounted on one of the rails to move along the path; and

a control system configured to control the transport devices;

wherein the control system is configured to control each transport device to: engage a packaging container, move along the path in a first transport direction and release the packaging container, to position the packaging container on the support platform; and

(III) a belt transport arrangement for transporting packaging containers away from the support platform in a first transport direction;

the belt transport arrangement comprising a first belt arrangement comprising a pair of belts, the pair of belts defining opposite contact surfaces for contacting the packaging containers; in which the apparatus can be operated between:

a first configuration, in which the support part is in the first position to support one or more packaging containers positioned thereon; and

a second configuration, in which the support part is in the second position and the contact surfaces of the tapes engage the one or more packaging containers.

The belt transport arrangement may comprise any feature, as described in relation to the belt transport arrangement of the packaging apparatus of the first aspect.

The support platform may comprise any feature, as described in relation to the support platform of the packaging apparatus of the first aspect.

The packaging container positioning apparatus may comprise any features, as described in relation to the packaging container positioning apparatus of the first aspect of the packaging apparatus. The apparatus may be configured to perform the method of the fourth aspect. The apparatus may comprise an apparatus according to the first aspect and may be configured to perform the method of the second aspect.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a packaging method using a packaging apparatus according to the third aspect, the method comprising placing the packaging containers in contact with the contact surfaces of the belts; and transporting the packaging containers away from the support platform in the first transport direction.

In this way, a packaging method can be provided that facilitates the transport of packaging containers using a belt transport arrangement, instead of transfer arms, advantageously, this can easily accommodate packaging containers of different shapes and sizes and provide high processing capacity.

Suitably, the method comprises the packaging containers being transported on the support platform, one at a time, and transported from the support platform, suitably, to a sealing station as a batch of two or more. .

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, a packaging container positioning apparatus is provided for positioning packaging containers on a support platform, the packaging container positioning apparatus comprising:

one or more rails, each of which forms a path for the transport devices; and

multiple individually controllable transport devices comprising at least a first transport device and a second transport device, each transport device being mounted on a rail to move along the path.

Suitably, the packaging container positioning apparatus further comprises a control system configured to control the transport devices, wherein the control system is configured to control each transport device to: engage a packaging container, move along the path in a first transport direction, and releasing the packaging container, to position the packaging container on the support platform.

Suitably, the packaging container positioning apparatus comprises:

two rails, each of which forms a path for transport devices; and

multiple individually controllable transport devices comprising at least a first transport device and a second transport device, each transport device being mounted on one of the rails to move along the path.

The packaging container positioning apparatus may comprise any feature, as described in relation to the packaging container positioning apparatus of the packaging apparatus of the first aspect.

Brief description of the drawings

For a better understanding of the invention and to show how embodiments thereof may be put into practice, reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the attached schematic drawings, in which:

Figure 1.1 shows a packaging apparatus;

Figure 1.2 shows an enlarged view of a region of the packaging apparatus of Figure 1.1;

Figure 1.3 shows an enlarged view of a region of the packaging apparatus of Figure 1.1;

Figure 1.4 shows an alternative belt conveying arrangement for a packaging apparatus;

Figure 1.5 shows the belt conveying arrangement of Figure 1.4 in a packaging apparatus;

Figure 1.6 shows a top view of a support platform in a packaging apparatus;

Figures 2.1 to 2.13 show the operation of the packaging apparatus of Figure 1;

Figure 3 shows a method of positioning packaging containers; and

Figure 4 shows a packaging method.

Detailed description of the preferred embodiments

Referring to Figures 1.1 and 1.2, a packaging apparatus 1 comprises a support platform 100 for supporting packaging containers 10 positioned thereon. The packaging apparatus 1 further comprises a packaging container positioning apparatus 200 for positioning packaging containers on the support platform 100.

The packaging container positioning apparatus 200 comprises a first rail 202 and a second rail 204. The packaging container positioning apparatus 200 further comprises multiple individually controllable transport devices 300. As best shown in Figure 1.2, in this exemplary embodiment, the multiple transport devices 300 comprise a first set of transport devices 302 having a first, a second and a third transport device 302a, 302b, 302c, and a second set 304 of transport devices having a first, a second and a third transport device 304a, 304b, 304c.

The first rail 202 and the second rail 204 each form a path for the transport devices 300. The first set 302 of transport devices is mounted on the first rail 202, to move along the path formed by the first rail 202. The second set 304 of transport devices is mounted on the second rail 204, to move along along the path formed by the second rail 204.

The packaging apparatus 1 further comprises an input feed assembly 500 comprising a first input feed belt 502a and a second input feed belt 502b. The second infeed belt 502b is arranged in use to receive packaging containers 10 from the first infeed belt 502a. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the feed assembly comprises a single feed belt.

The packaging container positioning apparatus 200 further comprises a control system 400. The control system 400 is configured to control the transport devices 300. As will be described in more detail below in relation to Figures 2.1 to 2.13, the control system 400 is configured to control each of the multiple transport devices 300 to: engage a packaging container 10, move along the trajectory in a first transport direction and releasing the packaging container 10, to position the packaging container 10 on the support platform 100. The control system 400 incorporates a sensor arrangement in the input power assembly 500 and a computer system. The sensor array is arranged to detect the presence of packaging containers and, thus, allow the control system 400 to establish the presence of packaging containers for collection in the inlet feed assembly 500.

The first transport direction is indicated in Figure 1.1 by arrow 50. The first transport direction is the direction in which the transport devices 300 are configured to transport packaging containers 10. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in the figures, the first transport direction 50 is from left to right, parallel to the central line A-A, from upstream to downstream.

The packaging apparatus 1 further comprises a sealing station 600 in which the packaging containers are adapted to be held for a period of time while being sealed. The sealing station comprises a sealing tool 602.

The packaging apparatus 1 further comprises an output assembly comprising an output belt 700.

The first input feed belt 502a, the second input feed belt 502b, the support platform 100, the sealing tool 602 of the sealing station 600 and the output belt 700 are all linearly aligned so that the line A - central A is a central line of all the components indicated above of the packaging apparatus 1.

In this exemplary embodiment, the first rail 202 and the second rail 204 are both linear and parallel to each other. The first rail 202 and the second rail 204 are spaced on each side of the inlet feed assembly 500 and the support platform 100, equidistant from the center line A-A. The first rail 202 and the second rail 204 extend along the length of the second infeed belt 502b and the support platform 100. In this way, the packaging container positioning apparatus 200 is configured so that the transport devices 300 can be moved into position to engage a packaging container 10 on the second inlet feeding belt 502 of the container feeding assembly 500. inlet, move along the path to transport the packaging container 10 from the inlet feed assembly 500 to the support platform 100, and release the packaging container 10 into position on the support platform 100.

The packaging apparatus 1 further comprises a belt transport arrangement 800 for transporting the packaging containers 10 away from the support platform 100 in a first transport direction. The first transport direction is indicated in Figure 1.1 by arrow 52. The first transport direction is the direction in which the belt transport arrangement 800 is configured to transport packaging containers. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in the figures, the first transport direction 52 is from left to right, parallel to the central line A-A, from upstream to downstream, and is parallel to the first transport direction 50.

The belt transport arrangement 800 comprises a first belt region 802 comprising a first pair of belts 802a, 802b. The first pair of tapes define opposing contact surfaces for contacting the packaging containers. The first pair of tapes are spaced on each side of the support platform, equidistant from the center A - A line. The first pair of ribbons 802a, 802b extend along the support platform. The first pair of belts 802a, 802b are positioned vertically so that, when the transport devices transport packaging containers 10 from the inlet feeding assembly 500 to the support platform 100, the transport devices pass over (i.e. that is, unobstructed and not obstructed by) the top of the first pair of tapes 802a, 802b.

The first pair of tapes 802a, 802b are adjustable to adjust the spacing between the contact surfaces of the first pair of tapes 802a, 802b. The first pair of tapes 802a, 802b may move in tandem so that the first pair of tapes 802a, 802b remains equidistant from the center A-A line during adjustment.

The support platform 100 is configured to support the packaging containers 10 at a first height when they are received from the transport devices 300 and to lower to a second height so that the packaging containers 10 are taken by the transport arrangement 800 by tape. The support platform 100 comprises height-adjustable support parts 102, each movable between a first position and a second position. The first position is a position in which the supporting part is raised, and the second position is a position in which the supporting part is lowered.

As shown in more detail in the side view of the support platform 100 of Figure 1.3, in this exemplary embodiment, the support platform 100 comprises multiple support parts 102a - 102h. The height of each support part is individually adjustable. In this exemplary embodiment, eight support parts are provided. In an alternative embodiment (not illustrated), the support platform 100 comprises a single support portion. In additional embodiments (not illustrated), the support platform contains an alternative number of parts, for example, two parts, three parts, etc.

Each of the multiple support parts 102a - 102h is movable between the first position and the second position. The support platform is configurable in a first configuration, in which the support parts 102a - 102h are in the first position to support one or more packaging containers positioned thereon. The support platform is further configurable in a second configuration, in which the support parts 102a - 102h are in the second position to allow the belt transport arrangement 800 to transport the packaging containers. The support parts 102a - 102h can be moved from the first position to the second position to bring the packaging containers 10 into contact with the contact surfaces of the first pair of belts 802a, 802b. That is, when the support parts are lowered, the packaging containers 10 supported thereon contact the contact surfaces of the first pair of belts 802a, 802b. When the supporting parts reach the second position, the packaging containers 10 are no longer supported by the supporting parts, since the packaging containers have been picked up by the belts 802a, 802b. In other words, in such a configuration, the packaging containers 10 are supported by the first pair of belts 802a, 802b and are no longer supported by the first support portion 102, which has lowered below the packaging containers 10.

The supporting parts 102a - 102h can be moved from the second position to the first position (i.e., can be raised) gradually. In an exemplary embodiment, the support portion 102h closest to the second input feed belt 502b may be raised first from the second position to the first position, followed by the adjacent support portion 102g, and so on. In this way, the entire support region can shift from the second position to the first position in a gradual or "wave-like" manner. As will be evident from the following description of operation, this has advantages in the processing capacity of the apparatus.

The support platform 100 is configured to cycle between: a first configuration, in which each of the support parts is in the first, elevated position to support one or more packaging containers 10 positioned thereon; and a second configuration in which each of the support parts is in the second, lowered position to allow the belt transport arrangement 800 to transport the packaging containers.

In the cycle of the illustrated embodiment, the support parts move simultaneously from the first configuration to the second configuration and return from the first configuration to the first configuration, one at a time.

In this way, the support platform 100 is repeatedly configurable in the first and second configurations with a series of intermediate configurations.

The belt transport arrangement 800 further comprises a second belt region 804 comprising a second pair of belts 804a, 804b. The second belt region 804 is arranged to receive packaging containers 10 from the first belt region 802. The second pair of tapes 804a, 804b define opposing contact surfaces for contacting the packaging containers. The second tape region 804 is provided downstream of the first tape region 802 along the first transport direction 52.

The second pair of tapes 804a, 804b are spaced on each side of the sealing station 600, on each side of the center A-A line. The second pair of tapes 804a, 804b extend along the sealing station 600 and project beyond the start of the exit tape 700. The second pair of tapes 804a, 804b are vertically aligned with the first pair of tapes 802a, 802b.

The second pair of tapes 804a, 804b are adjustable to adjust the spacing between the contact surfaces of the second pair of tapes 804a, 804b. The second pair of tapes 804a, 804b can move in tandem so that the second pair of tapes remain equidistant from the center A-A line during adjustment.

The second tape region 804 is configurable in a first configuration, in which the separation between the contact surfaces of the second pair of tapes 804a, 804b is substantially the same as the separation between the contact surfaces of the first pair of tapes 802a, 802b. In this way, the second belt region 804 can smoothly receive the packaging containers 10 from the first belt region 802 and can transport the packaging containers to the sealing station 600.

The second tape region 804 is further configurable in a second configuration, in which the separation between the contact surfaces of the second pair of tapes 804a, 804b is greater than the separation between the contact surfaces of the first pair of tapes. In this way, the second tape region can release, or release, the packaging containers 10 on the sealing tool 602 of the sealing station 600 by increasing the separation between the second pair of tapes 804a, 804b so that the containers of packaging are released into the sealing tool 602.

The belts of the first and second belt regions 802, 804 have an adjustable tilt angle, which can be adjusted to correspond to the tilt angle of the packaging containers 10 to be positioned and transported. In this way, the contact surfaces are flush with the sides of the packaging containers 10 to be transported, which provides safe and stable transport.

In another exemplary embodiment, an alternative belt transport arrangement 850 may be provided, as shown in Figure 1.4. The belt transport arrangement 850 may replace the belt transport arrangement 800 described above. The belt transport arrangement 850 comprises a belt arrangement comprising a first belt region 852 and a second belt region 854. A single ribbon 856 extends across the first ribbon region 852 and the second ribbon region 854. The first and second belt regions are movable to adjust the spacing between the contact surfaces, in a manner similar to that described in relation to the adjustable spacing between the belts 804a, 804b of the belt transport arrangement 500. However, in this embodiment, the tape is a single, continuous tape.

In Figure 1.5, the alternative belt transport arrangement 850 is shown installed in the packaging apparatus 100. The alternative belt transport arrangement 850 comprises a first belt 856a and a second belt 856b. As shown, each of the tapes 856a, 856b extends along the support platform 100, the length of the sealing tool 602 and projects beyond the start of the exit tape 700.

Figure 1.6 shows the first set of transport devices 302 in more detail. The first set 302 of transport devices and the second set 304 of transport devices are structurally identical. As shown in Figure 1.2, and also in more detail in Figure 1.6, each transport device 300 comprises a coupling member 306, an arm 308 and a housing 310. The coupling member 306 comprises a pair of jaws. The coupling member 306 is mounted on the arm 308 so that the jaws extend away from the arm. When the transport devices 300 are mounted on the respective rail, the jaws open towards the center line A-A. The vertical position of the jaws can be adjusted by adjusting the vertical position in which the coupling member 306 is mounted on the arm 308. In this way, the packaging apparatus 1 can accommodate packaging containers 10 of different heights.

The housing 310 of each transport device 300 houses two electromechanical linear actuators. The first actuator is arranged to drive the transport device 300 along the path formed by the respective rail 202, 204. The second actuator is arranged to actuate the arm 308, thereby moving the coupling member 306 toward or away from the center line A-A, as necessary. In this way, the coupling member 306 can move between a first retracted position, in which the coupling member 306 is located proximal to the housing and away from the center A-A line, and a second extended position, in which The coupling member 306 extends away from the housing 310 and toward the center line A-A.

In the first retracted position, the coupling member is retracted to allow the packaging containers 10 to pass along the second infeed belt 502b between the transport devices 300, and in the second extended position, the member 306 coupling may extend to engage a packaging container 10 on the second infeed belt 502b. Subsequently, the coupling member can be retracted back to the first position to release the packaging container 10. During use, movement between the first position and the second position facilitates attachment and release of a packaging container.

The operation of the packaging apparatus 1 is best illustrated by Figures 2.1 to 2.13 which show the sequential operation of the packaging apparatus 1 as the packaging containers 10 are positioned on the support platform 100 and transported away from it.

As shown in Figure 2.1, packaging containers 10 (labeled 10a to 10d) are present in the feed assembly. The packaging containers 10 are approximately separated by the differential operating speed of the first infeed belt 502a and the second infeed belt 502b. The second infeed belt 502b transports the packaging containers along it. The output belt 700 rotates to prepare to transport the packaging containers away from the packaging apparatus 1.

As shown in Figure 2.2, when the first packaging container 10a reaches the first transport device 302a of the first set of transport devices 302, the control system 400 controls the first transport device 302a to engage the first container 10a packaging. The coupling member 306 moves from the retracted position to the extended position to engage the first packaging container 10a.

As shown in Figure 2.3, next, the control system 400 controls the first transport device to move along the trajectory in the first transport direction 50, thereby transporting the first packaging container 10a in said address. In doing so, the first packaging container 10a slides along the support platform. The first transport device moves to position the first packaging container 10a on the support platform. In this exemplary embodiment, the first transport device moves to position the first packaging container 10a on the supporting portion furthest from the second feeding belt, i.e., the supporting portion 102a.

As shown in Figure 2.4, the control system 400 then controls the first transport device to release the first packaging container 10a. The first packaging container 10a is thus left in position on the support portion 102a. In order to facilitate close positioning of the packaging containers 10 (which may be necessary for particular sealing tools 602), after the release of the first packaging container 10a, the control system 400 controls the first sealing device. transport to adjust its position to make room for a second incoming transport device, which involves a small additional movement in the first transport direction 50.

As shown in Figures 2.3 and 2.4, the second transport device 302b is controlled to engage and move the second packaging container 10b to position the container on the last available support part, that is, the support part 102b. The second transport device 302b is controlled to engage, move and release in the same manner as described in relation to the control of the first transport device 302a.

As shown in Figure 2.5, after releasing the second packaging container 10b on the support part 102b, the second transport device 302b performs a similar small additional movement in the first transport direction 50 to make room for a third device 302c inbound transportation.

As shown in Figure 2.6, all of the transport devices of the first set 302 are used to position the packaging containers 10a, 10b, 10c, before the second set of transport devices 304 is used.

As shown in Figures 2.6 to 2.9, the second set 304 of transport devices is controlled to engage, move and position the packaging containers 10d, 10e, 10f in a manner identical to that described in relation to the first set 302 of transport devices.

As also shown in Figures 2.6 to 2.8, while the second set of transport devices 304 transports the packaging containers 10d, 10e, 10f, the control system 400 controls the first set of transport devices 302 to return to their original position, ready to be attached to the subsequent 10g, 10h packaging containers on the second feeding belt.

As shown in Figures 2.9 to 2.11, once the second set of transport devices has positioned the packaging containers 10d, 10e, 10f, the first set of transport devices is used again to position the containers 10g, 10h of packaging on the last parts 102g, 102h of support available. The control system 400 controls the second set of transport devices 304 to return to its original position, in preparation for attaching subsequent containers, in a subsequent repetition of the process. Eight packaging containers 10a - 10h are now positioned on the eight support parts 102a - 102h.

As also shown in Figure 2.11, once the final container 10h is positioned, the separation between the first pair of belts 802a, 802b is slightly reduced, as indicated by arrows 54, to bring the contact surfaces closer to the containers of packing. The gap between the second pair of belts 804a, 804b is also reduced, as indicated by arrows 56. In this described and illustrated example, multiple packaging containers 12 (previously transported to the sealing station) have been sealed at the sealing station. sealed while the packaging containers 10a - 10h were positioned on the support platform.

Next, the positioned packaging containers 10a - 10h must be transported to the sealing station 600. Simultaneously, the sealed containers 12 must be transported away from the sealing station 600.

The support parts 102a - 102h move simultaneously from the first position to the second position. That is, all supporting parts are lowered to the lowered position. In doing so, the packaging containers 10a - 10h are brought into contact with the contact surfaces of the first pair of belts 802a, 802b. Next, the first pair of belts 802a, 802b transport the packaging containers away from the support platform in the first transport direction 52 and pass the packaging containers 10 to the second pair of belts 804a, 804b. The second pair of belts 804a, 804b transport the packaging containers 10a - 10h to the sealing station 600.

Once the packaging containers 10a - 10h are away from a support portion 102a - 102h, they can be moved from the second position back to the first position. As shown in Figures 2.12 and 2.13, this allows an additional set of packaging containers to slide across the surface of the support platform in a substantial repetition of the process described above. In that case, however, it is the second set of transport devices 304 that moves the first of the containers in that set while the first transport devices 302 return to their original position.

As indicated above, the support parts 102a - 102h can be moved from the second position to the first position gradually. The support part 102h closest to the second input feed tape 502b is the first to return to the first position, followed by the next closest support part 102g, and so on. In this way, the control system 400 does not need to wait for the entire first set of packaging containers 10 to separate from the support platform 100 before returning the support parts to the first position. Instead, in this way, the control system 400 can control the transport devices 300 to engage and slide a packaging container of a second set along the elevated support parts before the downstream support parts are moved. elevate, thereby allowing transport of the second set of packaging containers before the first set of packaging containers is completely separated from the downstream supporting parts.

Although the description of the operation of the packaging apparatus 1 provided above refers to the belt transport arrangement 800, in another exemplary embodiment an alternative belt transport arrangement 850 is used. In this embodiment, the operation of the transport devices 300 is identical to that described above. The operation of the alternative belt transport arrangement 850 is functionally similar to that of the belt transport arrangement 800.

In an operating step corresponding to that shown in Figure 2.11, once the final container 10h is positioned, the spacing between the tapes 856 in the first tape region 852 is reduced to bring the opposite contact surfaces of the tapes 856 in the first closer together. tape region 852 to packaging containers. The spacing between the ribbons 856 in the second ribbon region 854 is also reduced, to reduce the separation between the opposing contact surfaces of the ribbons 856 in the second ribbon region 854.

In an identical manner as described above, the positioned packaging containers must be transported to sealing station 600. Lowering the support portions 102a - 102h brings the packaging container 10a - 10h into contact with the contact surfaces of the belts 856 in the first belt region 852. Continuous individual belts 856 are driven to transport packaging containers 102a - 102h to sealing station 600. The tapes in the second tape region 854 move away from each other (not shown) to position them out of the way during a sealing operation at the sealing station.

Figure 3 describes a method of positioning packaging containers on a support platform using multiple individually controllable transport devices comprising at least a first transport device and a second transport device, each transport device being mounted on a rail to move along a path formed by the rail. Step 3001 comprises coupling a packaging container using a transport device. Step 3002 comprises moving the transport device along the path in a first transport direction. Step 3003 comprises releasing the packaging container, thereby positioning the packaging container on the support platform.

Figure 4 describes a packaging method using a packaging apparatus having a supporting platform and a belt conveying arrangement. Step 4001 comprises bringing the packaging containers into contact with the contact surfaces of the belts. Step 4002 comprises transporting the packaging containers away from the support platform in the first transport direction.

In the illustrated embodiments, the packaging apparatus comprises: (a) a packaging container positioning apparatus comprising multiple individually controllable transport devices; (b) a support platform comprising a support portion moveable between a first position and a second position; and (c) a belt transport arrangement for transporting packaging containers away from the support platform. In additional alternative embodiments (not illustrated) packaging apparatus is provided comprising: feature (a) without features (b) or (c); features (a) and (b) without feature (c); and features (b) and (c) without feature (a). Such alternative embodiments may still exhibit many advantages, although the combination of features (a), (b) and (c) may be more advantageous.

Although a few preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various changes or modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims.

Attention is directed to all articles and documents that are filed concurrently with or that predate this specification in connection with this application and that are open to public inspection with this specification.

All features disclosed herein (including the claims, summary and accompanying drawings), and/or all steps of any disclosed method or process, may be combined in any combination, except combinations in which at least some of said characteristics and/or stages are mutually exclusive.

Each feature disclosed herein (including the claims, summary and accompanying drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same or an equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each disclosed feature is only one example of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

Claims (15)

1. Packaging apparatus (1) comprising: a support platform (100) for supporting packaging containers positioned thereon, the support platform comprising a height-adjustable support portion movable between a first position and a second position; and a belt transport arrangement (800) for transporting packaging containers away from the support platform in a first transport direction; the belt transport arrangement comprising a belt arrangement comprising a pair of belts, (802a, 802b) the pair of belts defining opposite contact surfaces for contacting the packaging containers, in which the appliance can be operated between: a first configuration, in which the support part is in the first position to support one or more packaging containers positioned thereon; and a second configuration, in which the support part is in the second position and the contact surfaces of the tapes engage the one or more packaging containers. 2. Packaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the belt transport arrangement comprises: (i) a first belt region (802) for contacting the packaging containers to transport the packaging containers away from the pallet. medium; and (ii) a second belt region (804) downstream of the first belt region, for transporting the packaging containers away from the first belt region. 3. Packaging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein: The belt transport arrangement (800) comprises a pair of belts extending through both the first belt region (802) and the second belt region (804) and wherein: (i) the spacing of the ribbons is adjustable in the first ribbon region; and (ii) the spacing of the ribbons is adjustable in the second ribbon region; and the adjustment of the separation of the ribbons in any of the regions is independent of the adjustment of the separation in the other region. 4. Packaging apparatus according to claim 3, wherein: the belt transport arrangement is adjustable to adjust the spacing between the contact surfaces of the belts (804a, 804b) in the second belt region (804) and wherein the belt transport arrangement is configurable, e.g. repeatedly, in: a first configuration, wherein the spacing between the contact surfaces of the tapes in the second tape region is substantially the same as the spacing between the contact surfaces of the tapes in the first tape region; and a second configuration, in which the separation between the contact surfaces of the tapes in the second tape region is greater than the separation between the contact surfaces of the tapes in the first tape region. 5. Packaging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein: (i) the first tape region (802) comprises a first pair of tapes (802a, 802b), wherein the first pair of tapes define opposing contact surfaces for contacting the packaging containers and have an adjustable spacing; and (ii) The second tape region (804) comprises a second pair of tapes (804a, 804b), wherein the second pair of tapes define opposite contact surfaces for contacting the packaging containers and have an adjustable spacing. 6. Packaging apparatus (1) according to claim 5, wherein the belt conveying arrangement is adjustable to adjust the spacing between the contact surfaces of the second pair of belts, and wherein the belt arrangement is configurable, for example, repeatedly, in: a first configuration, in which the separation between the contact surfaces of the second pair of tapes is substantially the same as the separation between the contact surfaces of the first pair of tapes; and a second configuration, in which the separation between the contact surfaces of the second pair of tapes is greater than the separation between the contact surfaces of the first pair of tapes. 7. Packaging apparatus (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the support platform (100) comprises multiple support parts (102), each support part being movable between a first position and a second position, being the packaging apparatus operable between: a first configuration, in which the support parts are in the first position to support one or more packaging containers positioned thereon; and a second configuration, in which the support parts are in the second position and the contact surfaces of the belts engage the one or more packaging containers. 8. Packaging apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the support parts (102) can be moved from the second position to the first position in a gradual manner. 9. Packaging apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the apparatus is configured so that the packaging containers are transported on the support platform (100), one at a time. 10. Packaging apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the belt transport arrangement is configured to transport containers from the support platform (100) as a batch while maintaining separation between them. 11. Packaging apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the belt transport arrangement (800) is adjustable to adjust the angle of inclination of the contact surfaces of the belts. 12. Packaging apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising: a packaging container positioning apparatus (200) for positioning packaging containers on the support platform, the packaging container positioning apparatus comprising: one or more rails (202, 204), each of which forms a path for the transport devices; multiple individually controllable transport devices (300) comprising at least a first transport device and a second transport device, each transport device being mounted on a rail to move along the path; a control system (400) configured to control the transport devices, wherein the control system is configured to control each transport device to: engage a packaging container (10), move along the path in a first transport direction and release the packaging container, to position the container packaging on the support platform (100). 13. Packaging apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a sealing station (600) for sealing the packaging containers. 14. Packaging method using a packaging apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 13, the method comprising: placing the packaging containers (10) in contact with the contact surfaces of the belts; and transporting the packaging containers away from the support platform (100) in the first transport direction. 15. Packaging method according to claim 14, wherein the method comprises packaging the containers that are transported on the support platform (100), one at a time, and that are transported from the support platform, optionally to a station (600) sealing, as a lot of two or more.