WO1990004541A1 - Apparatus for sealing a web of film in a packaging machine - Google Patents

Apparatus for sealing a web of film in a packaging machine Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO1990004541A1
WO1990004541A1 PCT/US1989/004528 US8904528W WO9004541A1 WO 1990004541 A1 WO1990004541 A1 WO 1990004541A1 US 8904528 W US8904528 W US 8904528W WO 9004541 A1 WO9004541 A1 WO 9004541A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
film
sealing bar
web
sealing
thermocouple
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US1989/004528
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Woo Lecon
Michael T. K. Ling
Original Assignee
Baxter International Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Baxter International Inc. filed Critical Baxter International Inc.
Priority to DE68911521T priority Critical patent/DE68911521T2/en
Publication of WO1990004541A1 publication Critical patent/WO1990004541A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
    • B29C65/02—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure
    • B29C65/18—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using heated tools
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
    • B29C65/74—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by welding and severing, or by joining and severing, the severing being performed in the area to be joined, next to the area to be joined, in the joint area or next to the joint area
    • B29C65/743—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by welding and severing, or by joining and severing, the severing being performed in the area to be joined, next to the area to be joined, in the joint area or next to the joint area using the same tool for both joining and severing, said tool being monobloc or formed by several parts mounted together and forming a monobloc
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/004—Preventing sticking together, e.g. of some areas of the parts to be joined
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/01—General aspects dealing with the joint area or with the area to be joined
    • B29C66/349—Cooling the welding zone on the welding spot
    • B29C66/3494—Cooling the welding zone on the welding spot while keeping the welding zone under pressure
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/40—General aspects of joining substantially flat articles, e.g. plates, sheets or web-like materials; Making flat seams in tubular or hollow articles; Joining single elements to substantially flat surfaces
    • B29C66/41—Joining substantially flat articles ; Making flat seams in tubular or hollow articles
    • B29C66/43—Joining a relatively small portion of the surface of said articles
    • B29C66/431—Joining the articles to themselves
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/70—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material
    • B29C66/73—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the intensive physical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the optical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the extensive physical properties of the parts to be joined, by the state of the material of the parts to be joined or by the material of the parts to be joined being a thermoplastic or a thermoset
    • B29C66/739—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the intensive physical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the optical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the extensive physical properties of the parts to be joined, by the state of the material of the parts to be joined or by the material of the parts to be joined being a thermoplastic or a thermoset characterised by the material of the parts to be joined being a thermoplastic or a thermoset
    • B29C66/7392—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the intensive physical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the optical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the extensive physical properties of the parts to be joined, by the state of the material of the parts to be joined or by the material of the parts to be joined being a thermoplastic or a thermoset characterised by the material of the parts to be joined being a thermoplastic or a thermoset characterised by the material of at least one of the parts being a thermoplastic
    • B29C66/73921—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the intensive physical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the optical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the extensive physical properties of the parts to be joined, by the state of the material of the parts to be joined or by the material of the parts to be joined being a thermoplastic or a thermoset characterised by the material of the parts to be joined being a thermoplastic or a thermoset characterised by the material of at least one of the parts being a thermoplastic characterised by the materials of both parts being thermoplastics
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
    • B29C66/81—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps
    • B29C66/814—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps
    • B29C66/8141—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the surface geometry of the part of the pressing elements, e.g. welding jaws or clamps, coming into contact with the parts to be joined
    • B29C66/81427—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the surface geometry of the part of the pressing elements, e.g. welding jaws or clamps, coming into contact with the parts to be joined comprising a single ridge, e.g. for making a weakening line; comprising a single tooth
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
    • B29C66/81—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps
    • B29C66/814—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps
    • B29C66/8145—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the constructional aspects of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps
    • B29C66/81457—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the constructional aspects of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps comprising a block or layer of deformable material, e.g. sponge, foam, rubber
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
    • B29C66/81—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps
    • B29C66/818—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the cooling constructional aspects, or by the thermal or electrical insulating or conducting constructional aspects of the welding jaws or of the clamps ; comprising means for compensating for the thermal expansion of the welding jaws or of the clamps
    • B29C66/8181—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the cooling constructional aspects, or by the thermal or electrical insulating or conducting constructional aspects of the welding jaws or of the clamps ; comprising means for compensating for the thermal expansion of the welding jaws or of the clamps characterised by the cooling constructional aspects
    • B29C66/81811—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the cooling constructional aspects, or by the thermal or electrical insulating or conducting constructional aspects of the welding jaws or of the clamps ; comprising means for compensating for the thermal expansion of the welding jaws or of the clamps characterised by the cooling constructional aspects of the welding jaws
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
    • B29C66/83—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof characterised by the movement of the joining or pressing tools
    • B29C66/832—Reciprocating joining or pressing tools
    • B29C66/8322—Joining or pressing tools reciprocating along one axis
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/90—Measuring or controlling the joining process
    • B29C66/91—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
    • B29C66/912—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by measuring the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
    • B29C66/9121—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by measuring the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by measuring the temperature
    • B29C66/91211—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by measuring the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by measuring the temperature with special temperature measurement means or methods
    • B29C66/91212—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by measuring the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by measuring the temperature with special temperature measurement means or methods involving measurement means being part of the welding jaws, e.g. integrated in the welding jaws
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/90—Measuring or controlling the joining process
    • B29C66/91—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
    • B29C66/912—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by measuring the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
    • B29C66/9121—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by measuring the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by measuring the temperature
    • B29C66/91221—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by measuring the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by measuring the temperature of the parts to be joined
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/90—Measuring or controlling the joining process
    • B29C66/91—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
    • B29C66/914—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
    • B29C66/9141—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature
    • B29C66/91421—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature of the joining tools
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/90—Measuring or controlling the joining process
    • B29C66/91—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
    • B29C66/914—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
    • B29C66/9141—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature
    • B29C66/91441—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature the temperature being non-constant over time
    • B29C66/91443—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature the temperature being non-constant over time following a temperature-time profile
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/90—Measuring or controlling the joining process
    • B29C66/91—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
    • B29C66/914—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
    • B29C66/9161—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the heat or the thermal flux, i.e. the heat flux
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/90—Measuring or controlling the joining process
    • B29C66/96—Measuring or controlling the joining process characterised by the method for implementing the controlling of the joining process
    • B29C66/961—Measuring or controlling the joining process characterised by the method for implementing the controlling of the joining process involving a feedback loop mechanism, e.g. comparison with a desired value
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B51/00—Devices for, or methods of, sealing or securing package folds or closures; Devices for gathering or twisting wrappers, or necks of bags
    • B65B51/10—Applying or generating heat or pressure or combinations thereof
    • B65B51/26—Devices specially adapted for producing transverse or longitudinal seams in webs or tubes
    • B65B51/30—Devices, e.g. jaws, for applying pressure and heat, e.g. for subdividing filled tubes
    • B65B51/303—Devices, e.g. jaws, for applying pressure and heat, e.g. for subdividing filled tubes reciprocating along only one axis
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
    • B29C65/02—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure
    • B29C65/18—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using heated tools
    • B29C65/22—Heated wire resistive ribbon, resistive band or resistive strip
    • B29C65/221—Heated wire resistive ribbon, resistive band or resistive strip characterised by the type of heated wire, resistive ribbon, band or strip
    • B29C65/226—Heated wire resistive ribbon, resistive band or resistive strip characterised by the type of heated wire, resistive ribbon, band or strip characterised by the cross-section of said heated wire, resistive ribbon, resistive band or resistive strip, e.g. being triangular
    • B29C65/227—Heated wire resistive ribbon, resistive band or resistive strip characterised by the type of heated wire, resistive ribbon, band or strip characterised by the cross-section of said heated wire, resistive ribbon, resistive band or resistive strip, e.g. being triangular said cross-section being hollow
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
    • B29C65/02—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure
    • B29C65/38—Impulse heating
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/01—General aspects dealing with the joint area or with the area to be joined
    • B29C66/05—Particular design of joint configurations
    • B29C66/10—Particular design of joint configurations particular design of the joint cross-sections
    • B29C66/11—Joint cross-sections comprising a single joint-segment, i.e. one of the parts to be joined comprising a single joint-segment in the joint cross-section
    • B29C66/112—Single lapped joints
    • B29C66/1122—Single lap to lap joints, i.e. overlap joints
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
    • B29C66/81—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps
    • B29C66/812—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the composition, by the structure, by the intensive physical properties or by the optical properties of the material constituting the pressing elements, e.g. constituting the welding jaws or clamps
    • B29C66/8126—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the composition, by the structure, by the intensive physical properties or by the optical properties of the material constituting the pressing elements, e.g. constituting the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the intensive physical properties or by the optical properties of the material constituting the pressing elements, e.g. constituting the welding jaws or clamps
    • B29C66/81261—Thermal properties, e.g. thermal conductivity, thermal expansion coefficient
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
    • B29C66/81—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps
    • B29C66/814—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps
    • B29C66/8141—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the surface geometry of the part of the pressing elements, e.g. welding jaws or clamps, coming into contact with the parts to be joined
    • B29C66/81411—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the surface geometry of the part of the pressing elements, e.g. welding jaws or clamps, coming into contact with the parts to be joined characterised by its cross-section, e.g. transversal or longitudinal, being non-flat
    • B29C66/81415—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the surface geometry of the part of the pressing elements, e.g. welding jaws or clamps, coming into contact with the parts to be joined characterised by its cross-section, e.g. transversal or longitudinal, being non-flat being bevelled
    • B29C66/81417—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the surface geometry of the part of the pressing elements, e.g. welding jaws or clamps, coming into contact with the parts to be joined characterised by its cross-section, e.g. transversal or longitudinal, being non-flat being bevelled being V-shaped
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
    • B29C66/82—Pressure application arrangements, e.g. transmission or actuating mechanisms for joining tools or clamps
    • B29C66/824—Actuating mechanisms
    • B29C66/8242—Pneumatic or hydraulic drives
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/90—Measuring or controlling the joining process
    • B29C66/91—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
    • B29C66/914—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
    • B29C66/9141—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature
    • B29C66/91411—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature of the parts to be joined, e.g. the joining process taking the temperature of the parts to be joined into account
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B51/00—Devices for, or methods of, sealing or securing package folds or closures; Devices for gathering or twisting wrappers, or necks of bags
    • B65B51/10—Applying or generating heat or pressure or combinations thereof
    • B65B2051/105—Heat seal temperature control

Definitions

  • the present invention relates generally to an apparatus for sealing a web of film. More specifically, the present invention relates to an apparatus for sealing a web of film in a form, fill, seal packaging machine.
  • form, fill, seal packaging machines are utilized to package a product in a flexible container.
  • form, fill, seal packaging machines are used to seal pharmaceuticals, dairy products, wine, food stuffs, cosmetics, and other products in flexible containers.
  • the form, fill, seal packaging machine provides an apparatus for packaging these products in an expedient manner.
  • a web of heat-sealable film is passed over a former or mandrel that forms the film into a tubular shape.
  • the film is folded longitudinally and heat-sealed along abutting longitudinal edges.
  • the tubular-shaped film is then passed around a tubular fill system that deposits the product to be packaged into the tubular-shaped film.
  • bags the web of film must be sealed across its width to form side seals. These side seals are usually created by a sealer that creates the second seal for one bag while making the first seal for the next bag.
  • the web of film can then be severed between the seals to create individual bags.
  • One method is to utilize a sealing member.
  • the sealing member In a typical form, fill, seal packaging machine, the sealing member is secured to a set of jaws that are h draulically actuated to grip the web of film.
  • the sealing member is urged against the film welding a portion of the web of film onto itself.
  • a knife is actuated and severs the web of film between the seals to create a flexible bag.
  • one of the problems inherent therein is heating the web of film to a sufficient temperature so that it is melted and sealed onto itself and cooling same before the packaging machine is cycled to the next step in the process, so that the seals do not come apart or weaken.
  • the cycle time of the machine is approximately 3 seconds. Accordingly, during this 3-second period, the jaws must come together, the web of film must be melted, and then the web of film must be cooled sufficiently so that the film can be advanced to the next stage of the process.
  • the strength of the seals is more critical than in others.
  • flexible bags for housing parenteral or enteral products are typically subjected to drop tests to test their strength.
  • One test that is sometimes utilized is a six foot drop test. Obviously, if the seals are not strong, the flexible bag will not survive a six foot drop.
  • Controlling the temperature to which the film is heated is difficult.
  • processing uncertainties that have made it difficult to heat the web of film to a specific temperature.
  • process variables include: power line fluctuations to the heater; heater resistance change over time; heater resistance change with respect to ambient temperatures; ambient temperature and humidity change; the effect of the filling medium on the heat transfer from the sealing member to the film; power transmission conversion equipment accuracy; power contact resistance changes; and uncertainties and inconsistencies due to the release layer.
  • the release layer must be changed every 6-8 hours due to its degradation.
  • the present invention provides an improved apparatus for sealing a web of film in a packaging machine.
  • the apparatus includes a sealing bar for heating a web of film to a temperature sufficient to melt at least a portion of the web of film.
  • the sealing bar includes a surface that directly contacts the web of film and does not include a release layer.
  • the apparatus further includes means for heating the sealing bar and means for cooling the sealing bar.
  • the means for heating the sealing bar and the means for cooling the sealing bar function to heat and cool the sealing bar during a cycle of the packaging machine.
  • the apparatus includes means for measuring the temperature of a portion of the web of film, the means for measuring being located on the surface of the sealing bar.
  • the sealing bar includes a channel and the means for cooling includes fluid that is fed into the channel of the sealing bar.
  • the apparatus includes means for regulating the temperature of the sealing bar, the means for measuring the temperature of the film cooperating with the means for regulating.
  • the sealing bar includes means for severing the web of film.
  • an advantage of the present invention is that it provides an apparatus for sealing a web of film that includes a sealing bar that directly contacts the web of film and does not include a release layer.
  • a still further advantage of the present invention is that it provides an apparatus for sealing a web of film that includes means for sufficiently heating and then sufficiently cooling the web of film during a cycle time of a form, fill, seal packaging machine.
  • Another advantage of the present invention is that it provides an apparatus for sealing and contemporaneously severing a web of film in a form, fill, seal packaging machine.
  • an advantage of the present invention is that it provides an apparatus that allows one to control and/or eliminate many process variables found in typical sealing apparatus.
  • a further advantage of the present invention is that it provides a means for sealing a web of film wherein at the completion of the sealing process, a fully solidified seal having good mechanical strength at near ambient temperatures is created. Additional features and advantages are described in, and will be apparent from, the detailed description of the presently preferred embodiments and from the drawings.
  • Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of the apparatus for sealing a web of film of the present invention.
  • Figure 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the apparatus for sealing taken along lines II-II of Figure 1.
  • Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of the sealing bar of the present invention.
  • Figure 4 illustrates a portion of the sealing bar of Figure 3 and the thermocouple in detail.
  • Figure 5 illustrates a schematic representation of the cycling of the sealing bar of the present invention.
  • the present invention provides an apparatus for sealing a web of film, preferably for use in a form, fill, seal packaging machine.
  • form, fill, seal packaging machine means a • packaging machine for creating from a web of film a bag or pouch filled with a product.
  • fill, seal packaging machine the web of film is folded along abutting longitudinal edges and sealed onto itself. The film is then filled with a product and side seals are created. The web of film is then severed between the side seals to create individual bags.
  • the embodiment of the present invention as specifically described in the present patent application is directed to creating the side seals in the web of film. Accordingly, the embodiment of the present invention discussed herein provides an apparatus for sealing and severing a web of film.
  • the sealing apparatus of the present invention can be used at a different stage of the packaging machine, i.e., to create the longitudinal seal edge, as well as can be used in other packaging machines or with other apparatus to seal and/or sever a web of film.
  • the present invention relates to an apparatus for creating seals in a web of film through the use of heat seals.
  • heat seal refers to an interfacial molecular mixing of the film to achieve a tensile and shear strength approaching that of the base film.
  • the present invention provides an improved apparatus for sealing a web of film in that it provides a sealing bar that directly contacts the web of film and includes means for measuring the temperature of the web of film so that the film is sufficiently heated during the sealing process. Furthermore, the present invention provides a means for cooling the sealing bar so that the web of film can be cooled to approximately its crystallization or solidification temperature allowing the film to be released from the jaws and cycled to the next step in the packaging machine without weakening or destroying the side seals.
  • the apparatus includes a first jaw 12 and a second jaw 14.
  • the jaws 12 and 14 are located on opposide sides of the web of film 16 diametrically opposed to each other.
  • the jaws 12 and 14 function to grip the web of film 16 during the sealing and severing process of the form, fill, seal packaging machine.
  • a sealing bar 18 for sealing and severing the web of film.
  • the sealing bar 18 functions to create side seals in the web of film 16 as well as sever the web of film to create individual bags or pouches containing a product.
  • Located diametric to the sealing bar 18 within the jaw 14 is a back-up member 20.
  • the back-up member 20 includes a resilient face 22 that functions to urge at least a portion of the web of film 16 against the sealing bar 18 so that the web of film can be sealed and severed.
  • the sealing bar 18 in accordance with the present invention, can be any apparatus for sealing a web of film in a packaging machine.
  • the sealing bar 18 is an impulse sealing apparatus.
  • the sealing bar 18 is so constructed and arranged that it does not require a release coating on the surface thereof. Accordingly, a surface 19 of the sealing bar directly contacts the web of film 16.
  • the sealing bar 18 has a construction substantially similar to those disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 07/258,945, entitled: "IMPROVED APPARATUS FOR SEALING AND SEVERING A WEB OF FILM", filed in the name of Lecon Woo et. al.
  • the sealing bar 18 includes two plateau regions 24 and 26 and a projecting triangular region 28.
  • the triangular region 28 functions to sever the web of film 16 while the plateau regions 24 and 26 function, along with the triangular region 28, to create the side seals in the web of film 16.
  • the sealing bar 18 directly contacts the web of film 16 and does not include a release layer, such as a Teflon tape.
  • the sealing member is covered or coated by a release layer.
  • a release layer is used on a sealing bar, due to the slow heat transfer, it is difficult to cool the sealing bar sufficiently and therefore the web of film. Furthermore, the release layer makes it difficult to measure the temperature of the web of film. Because the sealing bar 18 directly contacts the web of film 16, the present invention allows the means for measuring the temperature of the molten area of the film to be located on a surface 19 of the sealing bar.
  • the temperature sensor 30 includes a platform 29 that is bonded to the surface 19 of the sealing bar 18 by an adhesive layer 31.
  • An adhesive that has been found to function satisfactorily is a high temperature ceramic adhesive.
  • the platform 29 is constructed from a nonconducting material, for example, a ceramic.
  • a thermocouple 34 located on a top of the platform 29 is a thermocouple 34.
  • An iron constantan as well as a copper constantan thermocouple have been found to function satisfactorily.
  • the thermocouple 34 is a foil thermocouple having a thickness of approximately 0.005 of an inch to about 0.0001 of an inch.
  • a thermocouple foil purchased from Omega has been found to function satisfactorily.
  • the thermocouple 34 is encapsulated in a protective sleeve 36.
  • the protective sleeve can be constructed from a ceramic or glass material.
  • the thermocouple 34 includes leads 37 and 38 that allow the thermocouple to be coupled to control means 41 for regulating the temperature of the sealing bar 18.
  • the protective sleeve 36 covers the leads 37 and 38.
  • extending from an end of protective sleeve 36 is a butt bonded juncture 39 of the thermocouple 34 for measuring the temperature of the molten area of the film 16. Because the thermocouple 34 is located directly on the surface 19 of the sealing bar 18 and the sealing bar 18 directly contacts the web of film 16, the temperature of the molten area of the web of film 16 can be directly measured. Therefore, numerous disadvantages of some prior art apparatus wherein the temperature of the molten area of the film could not be measured are overcomed or controlled.
  • processing uncertainties and resultant variations in product seal qualities can be controlled or eliminated such as: powerline fluctuations to the heater; heater resistance change over time; heater resistance change with respect to temperature; ambient temperature and humidity changes; filling medium temperature effects on the heat transfer from the sealing bar to the film; power transmission conversion equipment accuracy; power switch contact resistance changes; and uncertainty due to the wearing and age of the release layer.
  • the temperature sensor including the thermocouple 34, is preferably located at a position where it will not substantially interfere with the seal to be created. For example, if the seal to be created includes chevrons, the thermocouple can be located where the outer area of the chevron will be created.
  • the sealing bar 18 functions to heat the web of film 16 to a sufficient temperature to cause an interfacial molecular mixing of the molecules of a portion of the web of film 16.
  • the sealing bar 18 is preferably heated to a temperature approximately 50°C above the melting point of the web of film 16.
  • a control means 41 is provided to heat the sealing bar 18.
  • the control means functions to fire, or heat, the sealing bar at certain times as set forth below.
  • the amount of energy supplied to the sealing bar 18 is determined, in part, by the thermocouple 34.
  • Any control means for controlling an impulse system known in the art can be utilized for the control means 41.
  • An example of a control means that has been found to function satisfactorily is a controller manufactured by the Robicon Company of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
  • the sealing bar 18 is coupled to the controlling means by conducting members 51 and 53 secured to near each end of the sealing bar. Not only is it necessary for the sealing bar 18 to heat the web of film 16 and create seals therein, but it is also necessary for the sealing bar to cool the web of film before the jaws 12 and 14 release the web of film so that the film can be processed to the next step in the form, fill, seal packaging process.
  • the hot bar 18 of the present invention cools the molten area of the web of film 16 to at least its crystallization temperature, which for polyethylene is approximately 120°C and for polypropylene, polyethylene copolymers is approximately 90°C, within the 3-second time window for cycling the packaging machine.
  • the sealing bar 18 includes walls 40 that define therein a channel 42.
  • the walls 40 of the sealing bar 18 are thin in order to allow them to be heated and cooled in an expedient manner.
  • the sealing bar 18 has walls 40 having a thickness of approximately 0.02 of an inch to about 0.003 of an inch. Most preferably, the walls have a thickness of 0.005 to about 0.006.
  • the sealing bar 18 is constructed from a nichrome tube.
  • a fluid preferably, water at ambient temperatures
  • a second channel 44 is connected to and in fluid communication with the channel 42 and water at ambient temperatures is caused to flow through the second channel 44 into the channel 42.
  • the water then exits the channel 42 through a third channel 46.
  • the sealing bar 18 is constructed as set forth above, and further because the sealing bar does not include a release layer such as Teflon tape or cloth, it is possible to cool the sealing bar, and therefore the molten area of the film, to near ambient temperatures within the 3-second window of the form, fill, seal packaging machine.
  • the sealing bar 18 is sufficiently cooled, the film 16 does not stick to the sealing bar 18.
  • sealing bar 18 is cooled to near ambient temperatures sufficiently rapidly to cool the molten area of the film to near ambient temperatures, therefore the film does not stick to the sealing bar and the film is crystallized or solidified at the seal layer. This is achieved, in part, due to the active cooling to near ambient temperatures of the sealing bar 18.
  • FIG. 5 a schematic representation of the cycling of the sealing bar is illustrated.
  • the sealing bar is fired after the jaws 12 and 14 have clamped the web of film 16 therebetween.
  • the channel 42 of the sealing bar 18 contains therein a gas, such as air.
  • the power to the heating element of the sealing bar is turned off.
  • a fluid preferably water at ambient temperature, is introduced into the channel 42. This results in the sealing bar 18, due to its construction, being cooled to near ambient temperatures within the time frame illustrated in the schematic and accordingly, the web of film 16 is crystallized at the seal area.
  • Air is then introduced into the channel 42 causing the water to be pushed out of the channel 42.
  • the jaws 12 and 14 can then be opened and the film 16 can then be cycled to the next step in the form, fill, seal process.
  • the heating and cooling of the film can be accomplished within approximately 2.5 seconds. Accordingly, this is well within the 3-second window required in a typical form, fill, seal packaging machine.

Abstract

An apparatus (10) for sealing a web of film (16) in a packaging machine. The apparatus includes a sealing bar (18) for heating a web of film (16) to a temperature sufficient to melt at least a portion of the web of film. The sealing bar (18) includes a surface (19) that directly contacts the web of film and does not include a release layer. The surface includes thereon a measuring member (30) for measuring the temperature of the molten area of the film. The apparatus further includes a cooling member (42) for cooling the melted portion of the film to its crystallization point during a cycle time of the packaging machine.

Description

APPARATUS FOR SEALING A WEB OF FILM IN A PACKAGING MACHINE BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to an apparatus for sealing a web of film. More specifically, the present invention relates to an apparatus for sealing a web of film in a form, fill, seal packaging machine.
Typically, form, fill, seal packaging machines are utilized to package a product in a flexible container. To this end, form, fill, seal packaging machines are used to seal pharmaceuticals, dairy products, wine, food stuffs, cosmetics, and other products in flexible containers. The form, fill, seal packaging machine provides an apparatus for packaging these products in an expedient manner.
In one type of form, fill, seal packaging machine, a web of heat-sealable film is passed over a former or mandrel that forms the film into a tubular shape. To effect the tubular shape, the film is folded longitudinally and heat-sealed along abutting longitudinal edges. The tubular-shaped film is then passed around a tubular fill system that deposits the product to be packaged into the tubular-shaped film. To create individual packages (hereinafter "bags") , the web of film must be sealed across its width to form side seals. These side seals are usually created by a sealer that creates the second seal for one bag while making the first seal for the next bag. Typically, after the side seals are created, the web of film can then be severed between the seals to create individual bags. There are a variety of different methods for sealing the web of film to create a seal in the web of film. One method is to utilize a sealing member. In a typical form, fill, seal packaging machine, the sealing member is secured to a set of jaws that are h draulically actuated to grip the web of film. For example, in creating the side seals, as the jaws grip the web of film, the sealing member is urged against the film welding a portion of the web of film onto itself. Typically, after the hot bar has melted the web of film, a knife is actuated and severs the web of film between the seals to create a flexible bag.
In creating, specifically, the side seals in a web of film, one of the problems inherent therein is heating the web of film to a sufficient temperature so that it is melted and sealed onto itself and cooling same before the packaging machine is cycled to the next step in the process, so that the seals do not come apart or weaken. In a typical form, fill, seal production packaging machine, the cycle time of the machine is approximately 3 seconds. Accordingly, during this 3-second period, the jaws must come together, the web of film must be melted, and then the web of film must be cooled sufficiently so that the film can be advanced to the next stage of the process. Some of the previous form, fill, seal packaging machines have not sufficiently cooled the web of film during the cycle time and accordingly, resultant bags created by these machines have had an unacceptable number of seal failures. One of the difficulties in cooling the sealing member or bar is that typically, it is covered or coated by a release layer such as a Teflon tape. This release layer prevents film from sticking to the sealing member, but, also makes it difficult to sufficiently cool the sealing member. The failure to cool the film sufficiently fast typically results in two types of defects. One defect is that the molten material is drawn into a fibrous form resulting in a weaker seal. A second defect is that under internal pressure, the molten seal upon opening the jaw can separate resulting in leaks and/or a weak seal.
In certain industries, the strength of the seals is more critical than in others. For example, in the pharmaceutical industry, flexible bags for housing parenteral or enteral products are typically subjected to drop tests to test their strength. One test that is sometimes utilized is a six foot drop test. Obviously, if the seals are not strong, the flexible bag will not survive a six foot drop.
Another disadvantage with some of the prior form, fill, seal packaging machines is that the web of film is not sufficiently heated or is heated to too great of temperature during the sealing process. Of course, if the web of film is not sufficiently heated, there will not be a sufficient interfacial mixing of the molecules of the film and accordingly, a strong seal will not be created. If the film is heated to too great of temperature, there is a danger that the film will stick to the surface of the sealing member. There is also a danger of film degradation if the film is heated to too great a temperature.
Controlling the temperature to which the film is heated is difficult. In sealing the film there are certain processing uncertainties that have made it difficult to heat the web of film to a specific temperature. These process variables include: power line fluctuations to the heater; heater resistance change over time; heater resistance change with respect to ambient temperatures; ambient temperature and humidity change; the effect of the filling medium on the heat transfer from the sealing member to the film; power transmission conversion equipment accuracy; power contact resistance changes; and uncertainties and inconsistencies due to the release layer. Furthermore, the release layer must be changed every 6-8 hours due to its degradation.
Although a number of these variables could be eliminated and the remaining ones controlled, if it were possible to measure the temperature on the film, heretofore, it has been difficult to measure the temperature of the web of film as it is being heated. One of the difficulties stems from the fact that the sealing member, which heats the web of film, is either coated with a release layer to prevent the web of film from sticking to the sealing bar, or includes a protective covering, such as a Teflon tape. Thus, it is not possible to measure the temperature of the film and regulate the sealing bar accordingly, because the sealing bar does not directly contact the web of film.
Accordingly, there is a need for an improved apparatus for sealing a web of film in a packaging machine. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides an improved apparatus for sealing a web of film in a packaging machine. The apparatus includes a sealing bar for heating a web of film to a temperature sufficient to melt at least a portion of the web of film. The sealing bar includes a surface that directly contacts the web of film and does not include a release layer. The apparatus further includes means for heating the sealing bar and means for cooling the sealing bar. The means for heating the sealing bar and the means for cooling the sealing bar function to heat and cool the sealing bar during a cycle of the packaging machine. Further, the apparatus includes means for measuring the temperature of a portion of the web of film, the means for measuring being located on the surface of the sealing bar. In an embodiment, the sealing bar includes a channel and the means for cooling includes fluid that is fed into the channel of the sealing bar.
In an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus includes means for regulating the temperature of the sealing bar, the means for measuring the temperature of the film cooperating with the means for regulating.
In an embodiment of the present invention, the sealing bar includes means for severing the web of film.
Accordingly, it is an advantage of the present invention to provide an apparatus for sealing a web of film in a packaging machine.
A further advantage of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for sealing a web of film that includes means for measuring the temperature of a molten area of the web of film. Still an advantage of the present invention is that it provides an apparatus for sealing a web of film that includes means for measuring the temperature of a molten area of the web of film and for regulating the temperature of the sealing bar.
Moreover, an advantage of the present invention is that it provides an apparatus for sealing a web of film that includes a sealing bar that directly contacts the web of film and does not include a release layer.
A still further advantage of the present invention is that it provides an apparatus for sealing a web of film that includes means for sufficiently heating and then sufficiently cooling the web of film during a cycle time of a form, fill, seal packaging machine.
Another advantage of the present invention is that it provides an apparatus for sealing and contemporaneously severing a web of film in a form, fill, seal packaging machine.
Furthermore, an advantage of the present invention is that it provides an apparatus that allows one to control and/or eliminate many process variables found in typical sealing apparatus. A further advantage of the present invention is that it provides a means for sealing a web of film wherein at the completion of the sealing process, a fully solidified seal having good mechanical strength at near ambient temperatures is created. Additional features and advantages are described in, and will be apparent from, the detailed description of the presently preferred embodiments and from the drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of the apparatus for sealing a web of film of the present invention.
Figure 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the apparatus for sealing taken along lines II-II of Figure 1.
Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of the sealing bar of the present invention.
Figure 4 illustrates a portion of the sealing bar of Figure 3 and the thermocouple in detail.
Figure 5 illustrates a schematic representation of the cycling of the sealing bar of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENTLY PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENT INVENTION The present invention provides an apparatus for sealing a web of film, preferably for use in a form, fill, seal packaging machine. As used herein, the term "form, fill, seal packaging machine" means a • packaging machine for creating from a web of film a bag or pouch filled with a product. In a typical form, fill, seal packaging machine, the web of film is folded along abutting longitudinal edges and sealed onto itself. The film is then filled with a product and side seals are created. The web of film is then severed between the side seals to create individual bags. The embodiment of the present invention as specifically described in the present patent application is directed to creating the side seals in the web of film. Accordingly, the embodiment of the present invention discussed herein provides an apparatus for sealing and severing a web of film. Of course, the sealing apparatus of the present invention can be used at a different stage of the packaging machine, i.e., to create the longitudinal seal edge, as well as can be used in other packaging machines or with other apparatus to seal and/or sever a web of film. As stated above, the present invention relates to an apparatus for creating seals in a web of film through the use of heat seals. The term "heat seal" refers to an interfacial molecular mixing of the film to achieve a tensile and shear strength approaching that of the base film. To achieve this heat seal, and therefore interfacial molecular mixing, it is necessary to heat the film to a sufficient temperature. However, as set forth in the background of the invention, this must be tempered by the fact that the film must be cooled to a sufficient temperature so that the film can be cycled to the next step of the form, fill, seal packaging machine process.
The present invention provides an improved apparatus for sealing a web of film in that it provides a sealing bar that directly contacts the web of film and includes means for measuring the temperature of the web of film so that the film is sufficiently heated during the sealing process. Furthermore, the present invention provides a means for cooling the sealing bar so that the web of film can be cooled to approximately its crystallization or solidification temperature allowing the film to be released from the jaws and cycled to the next step in the packaging machine without weakening or destroying the side seals. Referring now to Figures 1 and 2, the apparatus
10 for sealing and severing the web of film 16 is illustrated. As illustrated, the apparatus includes a first jaw 12 and a second jaw 14. The jaws 12 and 14 are located on opposide sides of the web of film 16 diametrically opposed to each other. The jaws 12 and 14 function to grip the web of film 16 during the sealing and severing process of the form, fill, seal packaging machine.
Located within the jaw 12 is a sealing bar 18 for sealing and severing the web of film. As discussed in more detail hereinafter, the sealing bar 18 functions to create side seals in the web of film 16 as well as sever the web of film to create individual bags or pouches containing a product. Located diametric to the sealing bar 18 within the jaw 14 is a back-up member 20. The back-up member 20 includes a resilient face 22 that functions to urge at least a portion of the web of film 16 against the sealing bar 18 so that the web of film can be sealed and severed.
Referring now to Figure 3, the sealing bar 18 is illustrated. The sealing bar 18, in accordance with the present invention, can be any apparatus for sealing a web of film in a packaging machine. Preferably, the sealing bar 18 is an impulse sealing apparatus. However, due to the novel construction of the sealing bar 18 of the present invention, the sealing bar 18 is so constructed and arranged that it does not require a release coating on the surface thereof. Accordingly, a surface 19 of the sealing bar directly contacts the web of film 16. Preferably, the sealing bar 18 has a construction substantially similar to those disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 07/258,945, entitled: "IMPROVED APPARATUS FOR SEALING AND SEVERING A WEB OF FILM", filed in the name of Lecon Woo et. al. and filed herewith. As illustrated, the sealing bar 18 includes two plateau regions 24 and 26 and a projecting triangular region 28. The triangular region 28 functions to sever the web of film 16 while the plateau regions 24 and 26 function, along with the triangular region 28, to create the side seals in the web of film 16. Due to the novel construction of the present invention, the sealing bar 18 directly contacts the web of film 16 and does not include a release layer, such as a Teflon tape. As set forth in the background of the invention, in some prior sealing devices, the sealing member is covered or coated by a release layer. When a release layer is used on a sealing bar, due to the slow heat transfer, it is difficult to cool the sealing bar sufficiently and therefore the web of film. Furthermore, the release layer makes it difficult to measure the temperature of the web of film. Because the sealing bar 18 directly contacts the web of film 16, the present invention allows the means for measuring the temperature of the molten area of the film to be located on a surface 19 of the sealing bar.
Accordingly, as illustrated in Figure 3, located on a surface 19 of the plateau region 26 is a temperature sensor 30. Figure 4 illustrates a more detailed view of the temperature sensor 30. Preferably, the temperature sensor 30 includes a platform 29 that is bonded to the surface 19 of the sealing bar 18 by an adhesive layer 31. An adhesive that has been found to function satisfactorily is a high temperature ceramic adhesive. The platform 29 is constructed from a nonconducting material, for example, a ceramic. Preferably, located on a top of the platform 29 is a thermocouple 34. An iron constantan as well as a copper constantan thermocouple have been found to function satisfactorily. Preferably, the thermocouple 34 is a foil thermocouple having a thickness of approximately 0.005 of an inch to about 0.0001 of an inch. A thermocouple foil purchased from Omega has been found to function satisfactorily.
Preferably, the thermocouple 34 is encapsulated in a protective sleeve 36. The protective sleeve can be constructed from a ceramic or glass material. As illustrated, the thermocouple 34 includes leads 37 and 38 that allow the thermocouple to be coupled to control means 41 for regulating the temperature of the sealing bar 18. The protective sleeve 36 covers the leads 37 and 38. However, extending from an end of protective sleeve 36 is a butt bonded juncture 39 of the thermocouple 34 for measuring the temperature of the molten area of the film 16. Because the thermocouple 34 is located directly on the surface 19 of the sealing bar 18 and the sealing bar 18 directly contacts the web of film 16, the temperature of the molten area of the web of film 16 can be directly measured. Therefore, numerous disadvantages of some prior art apparatus wherein the temperature of the molten area of the film could not be measured are overcomed or controlled.
Specifically, processing uncertainties and resultant variations in product seal qualities can be controlled or eliminated such as: powerline fluctuations to the heater; heater resistance change over time; heater resistance change with respect to temperature; ambient temperature and humidity changes; filling medium temperature effects on the heat transfer from the sealing bar to the film; power transmission conversion equipment accuracy; power switch contact resistance changes; and uncertainty due to the wearing and age of the release layer. Because the temperature is directly measured from the film itself, these variables can either be eliminated or their impact reduced. The temperature sensor, including the thermocouple 34, is preferably located at a position where it will not substantially interfere with the seal to be created. For example, if the seal to be created includes chevrons, the thermocouple can be located where the outer area of the chevron will be created.
As previously stated, the sealing bar 18 functions to heat the web of film 16 to a sufficient temperature to cause an interfacial molecular mixing of the molecules of a portion of the web of film 16. To this end, the sealing bar 18 is preferably heated to a temperature approximately 50°C above the melting point of the web of film 16. To heat the sealing bar 18, a control means 41 is provided. The control means functions to fire, or heat, the sealing bar at certain times as set forth below. The amount of energy supplied to the sealing bar 18 is determined, in part, by the thermocouple 34. Any control means for controlling an impulse system known in the art can be utilized for the control means 41. An example of a control means that has been found to function satisfactorily is a controller manufactured by the Robicon Company of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The sealing bar 18 is coupled to the controlling means by conducting members 51 and 53 secured to near each end of the sealing bar. Not only is it necessary for the sealing bar 18 to heat the web of film 16 and create seals therein, but it is also necessary for the sealing bar to cool the web of film before the jaws 12 and 14 release the web of film so that the film can be processed to the next step in the form, fill, seal packaging process. As set forth in detail below, the hot bar 18 of the present invention cools the molten area of the web of film 16 to at least its crystallization temperature, which for polyethylene is approximately 120°C and for polypropylene, polyethylene copolymers is approximately 90°C, within the 3-second time window for cycling the packaging machine.
To this end, as illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the sealing bar 18 includes walls 40 that define therein a channel 42. The walls 40 of the sealing bar 18 are thin in order to allow them to be heated and cooled in an expedient manner. Preferably, the sealing bar 18 has walls 40 having a thickness of approximately 0.02 of an inch to about 0.003 of an inch. Most preferably, the walls have a thickness of 0.005 to about 0.006. Preferably, the sealing bar 18 is constructed from a nichrome tube.
Referring now specifically to Figure 1, to cool the sealing bar 18, a fluid, preferably, water at ambient temperatures, is caused to flow through the channel 42 of the sealing bar 18. To accomplish this, a second channel 44 is connected to and in fluid communication with the channel 42 and water at ambient temperatures is caused to flow through the second channel 44 into the channel 42. The water then exits the channel 42 through a third channel 46. Because the sealing bar 18 is constructed as set forth above, and further because the sealing bar does not include a release layer such as Teflon tape or cloth, it is possible to cool the sealing bar, and therefore the molten area of the film, to near ambient temperatures within the 3-second window of the form, fill, seal packaging machine. Moreover, because the sealing bar 18 is sufficiently cooled, the film 16 does not stick to the sealing bar 18. This is due to the fact that the sealing bar 18 is cooled to near ambient temperatures sufficiently rapidly to cool the molten area of the film to near ambient temperatures, therefore the film does not stick to the sealing bar and the film is crystallized or solidified at the seal layer. This is achieved, in part, due to the active cooling to near ambient temperatures of the sealing bar 18.
Referring now to Figure 5, a schematic representation of the cycling of the sealing bar is illustrated. As illustrated, at time A, the sealing bar is fired after the jaws 12 and 14 have clamped the web of film 16 therebetween. During this time, the channel 42 of the sealing bar 18 contains therein a gas, such as air. At time B, the power to the heating element of the sealing bar is turned off. After the sealing bar 18 has been fired to a temperature of approximately 350°C, at time C, a fluid, preferably water at ambient temperature, is introduced into the channel 42. This results in the sealing bar 18, due to its construction, being cooled to near ambient temperatures within the time frame illustrated in the schematic and accordingly, the web of film 16 is crystallized at the seal area. Air is then introduced into the channel 42 causing the water to be pushed out of the channel 42. The jaws 12 and 14 can then be opened and the film 16 can then be cycled to the next step in the form, fill, seal process. As illustrated, the heating and cooling of the film can be accomplished within approximately 2.5 seconds. Accordingly, this is well within the 3-second window required in a typical form, fill, seal packaging machine. It should be understood that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention and without diminishing its attendant advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and modifications be covered by the appended claims.

Claims

WE CLAIM AS OUR INVENTION:
1. An apparatus for sealing a web of film in a packaging machine comprising: a sealing bar for heating a web of film to a temperature sufficient to melt at least a portion of the web of film, the sealing bar including a surface that directly contacts the web of film and does not include a release layer; means for heating the sealing bar; means for cooling the sealing bar; the means for heating and the means for cooling functioning to heat and cool the sealing bar during a cycle of the packaging machine; and means for measuring the temperature of a portion of the web of film located on the surface Of the sealing bar.
2. The apparatus of Claim 1 wherein the sealing bar includes a channel and the means for cooling includes fluid that is fed into the channel.
3. The apparatus of Claim 1 wherein the means for measuring is a thermocouple.
4. The apparatus of Claim 1 including means for regulating the temperature of the sealing bar, the means for measuring cooperating with the means for regulating.
5. The apparatus of Claim 1 wherein the sealing bar includes means for severing the web of film.
6. An apparatus for sealing a web of film in a form, fill, seal packaging machine comprising: a sealing bar for heating a web of film to a temperature sufficient to melt at least a portion of the web of film, the sealing bar including a surface that directly contacts the portion of the web of film, the sealing bar being coupled to means for heating the sealing bar, the sealing bar further including a channel for receiving a fluid for cooling the sealing bar to a temperature sufficient to prevent the portion of the film from sticking to the sealing bar after the sealing bar melts the portion of the web of film; and means for measuring the temperature of the portion of the film and regulating the temperature of the sealing bar located on the surface of the sealing bar.
7. The apparatus of Claim 6 wherein the means for heating and fluid for cooling cooperate to heat the sealing bar to a temperature sufficient to melt the portion of the film and cool the sealing bar to a temperature sufficient to cause the melted portion of the film to crystallize during a cycle of the form, fill, seal packaging machine.
8. The apparatus of Claim 6 wherein the means for measuring is a thermocouple.
9. The apparatus of Claim 8 wherein the thermocouple has a cross-sectional thickness of approximately 0.005 to about 0.0001 of an inch.
10. The apparatus of Claim 6 wherein the sealing bar is substantially hollow.
11. The apparatus of Claim 10 wherein the sealing bar has walls having a cross-sectional thickness of approximately 0.02 to about 0.003 of an inch.
12. The apparatus of Claim 6 wherein the sealing bar includes means for severing the web of film.
13. The apparatus of Claim 6 wherein the apparatus seals a web of film in less than approximately three seconds.
14. The apparatus of Claim 12 wherein the means for severing includes a raised portion on the sealing bar.
15. The apparatus of Claim 8 wherein the thermocouple is secured to the sealing bar by a ceramic adhesive.
16. The apparatus of Claim 8 wherein the thermocouple is an iron constantan or copper constantan thermocouple.
17. An apparatus for sealing and severing a web of film in a form, fill, seal packaging machine comprising: an impulse sealing bar for heating a web of film to a temperature sufficient to melt at least a portion of the web of film, the sealing bar including a surface that directly contacts the portion of the web of film, the sealing bar is coupled to an electrical source for heating the sealing bar, the sealing bar further including a channel for receiving a fluid for cooling the sealing bar to a temperature sufficient to prevent the portion of the film from sticking to the sealing bar after the sealing bar melts the portion of the web of film and means for severing the web of film; and a thermocouple for measuring the temperature of the portion of the film and through feedback control means regulating the temperature of the sealing bar secured to a surface of the sealing bar.
18. The apparatus of Claim 17 wherein the thermocouple has a thickness of approximately 0.005 to about 0.0001 of an inch.
19. The apparatus of Claim 17 wherein the sealing bar is substantially hollow.
20. The apparatus of Claim 19 wherein the sealing bar has walls having a cross-sectional thickness of approximately 0.02 to about 0.003 of an inch.
21. The apparatus of Claim 17 wherein the apparatus seals a web of film in less than approximately three seconds.
22. The apparatus of Claim 17 wherein the means for severing includes a raised portion on the sealing bar.
23. The apparatus of Claim 17 wherein the thermocouple is secured to the sealing bar by a ceramic adhesive.
24. The apparatus of Claim 16 wherein the thermocouple is an iron constantan or copper constantan thermocouple.
PCT/US1989/004528 1988-10-17 1989-10-10 Apparatus for sealing a web of film in a packaging machine WO1990004541A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE68911521T DE68911521T2 (en) 1988-10-17 1989-10-10 DEVICE FOR SEALING A TAPE OR FILM IN A PACKING MACHINE.

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US07/258,943 US4856260A (en) 1988-10-17 1988-10-17 Apparatus for sealing a web of film in a packaging
US258,943 1988-10-17

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO1990004541A1 true WO1990004541A1 (en) 1990-05-03

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Country Status (7)

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US (1) US4856260A (en)
EP (1) EP0407500B1 (en)
JP (1) JPH03502679A (en)
AU (1) AU614445B2 (en)
CA (1) CA1315666C (en)
DE (1) DE68911521T2 (en)
WO (1) WO1990004541A1 (en)

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE68911521D1 (en) 1994-01-27
AU614445B2 (en) 1991-08-29
US4856260A (en) 1989-08-15
EP0407500A1 (en) 1991-01-16
JPH03502679A (en) 1991-06-20
EP0407500A4 (en) 1991-05-22
EP0407500B1 (en) 1993-12-15
AU4492289A (en) 1990-05-14
DE68911521T2 (en) 1994-07-28
CA1315666C (en) 1993-04-06

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