CN106256696A - Heat-sealing cooler for packaging machine - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to the heat-sealing cooler for packaging machine, more particularly relate to provide the heat-sealing machine of cooler, system, device, the method and computer program product with the reservoir body keeping acyclic liquid；Described acyclic liquid provides/makes moistening coating pad, and this coating pad contacts with the heat-sealing in the downstream of the heat-sealing on product horn thus utilizes the coating pad applying liquid that liquid can be stoped to collect to make heat-sealing cool down simultaneously.

Description

Heat seal coolers for packaging machines

related application

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/182,006, filed June 19, 2015, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/234,994, filed September 30, 2015, the contents of which are References are incorporated herein as if set forth in their entirety.

technical field

The invention relates to a packaging machine with a heat sealing device.

Background technique

Typically, in the production of consumer products such as meat or other food products, the food product is injected (usually pumped) or stuffed into the cannula in a manner that allows the cannula to be filled with the desired amount of product. As is well known, these sleeves may be slug-type natural or man-made sleeves that unravel, travel, stretch and/or pull to form an elongated sleeve over the desired product. Another type of sleeve is a heat-sealed tubular sleeve formed by bonding together the long edges of a thin layer of flexible material (usually elastomeric and/or polymeric) with adhesive. US Patents 5,085,036 and 5,203,760 describe examples of substantially continuous automatic feeders suitable for forming sheets or flat rolls into tubular film sleeves.

Rotary multi-cutter platform systems, such as the Rota-Clip ^® high-speed packaging system from Tipper Tie, Apex, NC, have been used in heat-sealing units to produce a range of salmon (chub) or Cut product packaging. See, eg, US Patents 4,821,485, 5,020,298, 5,259,168, 5,471,815, 5,644,896, and 8,006,463. The contents of the aforementioned patents are hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth in their entirety herein.

As is well known, the heat-sealed seam is usually allowed to cool so that when the heated product fills the pipe (which can be closed in time to form the heat seal) the seam will remain intact. In the past, this problem has been solved by blowing cold air over the seams, but cold air systems may not be sufficient to reliably solve this problem. Heat is also dissipated and the seams are cooled by spraying water over the seams. However, spraying water introduces the potential for water to enter operating components such as the membrane drive motor and/or vacuum membrane drive and/or for water to collect or pool undesirably on the ground below and/or around the packaging machine.

Contents of the invention

Embodiments of the present invention provide a heat-seal cooler having a liquid-applied pad (typically fixed) provided by a reservoir of liquid (e.g., water) that is in contact with the heat-seal for application of a liquid (e.g., water) , water) film while minimizing dripping.

In some embodiments, a heat seal cooler may be used in a packaging system having a rotating table that holds a plurality of circumferentially spaced clippers.

Some embodiments relate to heat-sealed cooler assemblies. These assemblies include a reservoir body including at least one liquid inlet in fluid communication with at least one liquid chamber, and at least one holding chamber including an open space with an outwardly facing open perimeter. The reservoir body also includes a partition extending between the at least one liquid chamber and the holding chamber. The partition is configured to distribute liquid from the liquid chamber over the longitudinal extension of the holding chamber. The cooler assembly also includes a valve in fluid communication with at least one liquid inlet of the reservoir body.

The heat seal cooler assembly may include a coated pad retained in the holding chamber such that its outer surface extends a distance below the holding chamber beyond the boundaries of the reservoir body.

A valve can be attached to the reservoir body.

The reservoir body may have a length between 3-10 inches.

The heat seal cooler assembly may include a liquid flow conduit attached to a valve and a liquid supply.

The coating pad may have an elongated shape and have a planar exposed surface in contact with the heat-sealing film.

The coated pad may be rectangular and have a length dimension that is greater than the height and width dimensions.

The reservoir body may have an elongated shape. The partition may include a plurality of longitudinally spaced apertures.

The applicator pad may have an elongated polygonal shape and may comprise felt and/or sponge material.

The holding chamber may have sidewalls that taper outwardly below the partition, and longitudinally extending spaced apart shoulders sized and configured to removably retain the compressible coating pad therein.

The heat seal cooler assembly may include a mounting assembly configured to mount the reservoir body to the frame of the packaging system above the product rod such that the reservoir body is closely spaced above the product rod and optionally Optionally be able to float in the vertical direction, thereby accommodating uneven product guide bars.

Other embodiments relate to packaging systems. These packaging systems may include a rotating platform having columns, and a plurality of circumferentially spaced clippers mounted to the rotating platform. The rotating platform is configured to simultaneously mount a plurality of clippers in respective circumferentially spaced clipper stations. These packaging systems also include a heat seal cooler that holds the coated pad, with the exposed surface positioned adjacent to and over the product bar such that the exposed surface of the coated pad is in contact with the heat-seal film, whereby when the heat-seal film faces Liquid is applied as the cutter travels to cool the heat-sealed film.

The heat seal cooler may include a reservoir body having at least one liquid inlet in fluid communication with an external valve. The reservoir body can have at least one liquid cavity configured to hold a liquid, and at least one holding chamber with an open space to hold the coated pad. The reservoir body may also include a partition extending between the at least one liquid chamber and the holding chamber. The partition may be configured to distribute liquid from the liquid chamber over a longitudinally extending length of the holding chamber.

The valve may be attached to the reservoir body.

The coating pad may be an elongated body and have a length between 3-10 inches.

The packaging system may include a liquid flow valve attached to a reservoir body of the heat-sealed cooler, and a liquid flow conduit extending to a liquid supply.

The coated pad may be rectangular and have a length dimension that is greater than the height and width dimensions. Applicator pads include felt and/or sponge materials.

The reservoir body may have an elongated shape and a partition extending between the holding chamber and the at least one liquid chamber. The partition may include a plurality of longitudinally spaced apertures.

The holding chamber may have sidewalls that taper outwardly below the partition, and may further include mutually spaced shoulders sized and configured to compress the coating pad extending longitudinally therein.

The packaging system may include a mounting assembly configured to mount the reservoir body to the frame of the packaging system above the product rod such that the reservoir body is closely spaced above the product rod and optionally The ability to float in the vertical direction thereby accommodates uneven product guide bars.

The packaging system may include an adhesive heat-sealing module having a permanently mounted extruder in communication with a feed hopper for bulk adhesive and an adhesive runner that provides heated adhesive to an adhesive dispensing applicator, and then The adhesive dispensing applicator dispenses heated adhesive to a film that is formed into a tubular shape using a forming ring present at a location upstream of the adhesive dispensing applicator. The applicator pad may be present at a distance between 0.1 inches and 6 inches of the location downstream of the adhesive applicator.

The packaging system may include a liquid supply conduit attached to a valve in fluid communication with the heat seal cooler and to a liquid supply source. The packaging system may include a controller that closes the valve when the film is being produced.

Other embodiments relate to retrofit kits for multi-cutter rotary packaging systems. These kits include a reservoir body including at least one liquid inlet in fluid communication with at least one liquid cavity. The reservoir body also includes a partition extending between the at least one liquid chamber and the holding chamber. The partition may include at least one orifice configured to dispense liquid from the liquid cavity over the longitudinal extension of the holding chamber. The kits also include at least one compressible coated pad configured to be removably retained by the reservoir body in the holding chamber such that its outer surface extends a distance below the holding chamber beyond the boundaries of the reservoir body.

These kits may include a valve attached to the reservoir body in fluid communication with at least one liquid inlet of the reservoir body.

The coated pad can be porous and can have a length between 3-10 inches.

The kit may include tubing suitable for attachment to a valve and a liquid supply.

The applicator pad may have an elongated shape and have an exposed face that is in contact with the heat-sealing film when held in the reservoir body.

The coated pad may be rectangular and have a length dimension that is greater than the height and width dimensions.

The reservoir body may have an elongated shape. The partition may include a plurality of longitudinally spaced apertures.

The applicator pad may have an elongated shape and comprise felt or sponge material.

The holding chamber may have sidewalls that taper outwardly below the bulkhead and longitudinally extending spaced shoulders that are sized and configured to removably compress laterally and longitudinally therein And keep the coated pad.

The kit may include a mounting assembly configured to mount the reservoir body to the frame of the packaging system and above the product rod such that the reservoir body is spaced proximately above the product rod.

The mounting assembly and/or applicator pad may be configured to float in a vertical direction, thereby accommodating uneven product bars.

Other aspects of the invention relate to a computer program product for manipulating a packaging system having a turntable having a plurality of circumferentially spaced clippers thereon that interface with forming rings and product guide bars connected to form the flat stock into a generally tubular film using a heat sealing module. A computer program product includes a non-transitory computer readable storage medium having computer readable program code embodied in the medium. The computer readable program code includes computer readable program code configured to open and close at least one meter-in flow valve in fluid communication with a liquid reservoir that retains the coating pad below the diaphragm, the diaphragm Plates dispense liquid over the length of the coated pad while heat seal film production is in progress.

Other aspects of the packaging system relate to packaging systems. These packaging systems include a product bar having a forming ring thereon and a roll of flat sheet material in communication with the forming ring and the product bar. These systems are configured to form the sheet in situ into a tubular shape with open overlapping long edges adjacent the product bar. These systems also include a supply of hot adhesive in communication with the adhesive applicator. An adhesive applicator applies heated adhesive to seal the film held on the product bar into a tubular shape. These systems also include a heat seal cooler having a reservoir body that holds the applicator pad in a position proximate to but downstream from the adhesive applicator. The reservoir body includes at least one liquid inlet and at least one holding chamber having a coated pad retained therein. The reservoir body also includes a partition extending between the at least one liquid chamber and the holding chamber. The partition is configured to dispense liquid from a liquid chamber in the holding chamber over the longitudinal extent of the coated pad, thereby dampening the pad so that the pad can contact the seam of the heat-seal film and apply moisture or liquid thereto. These systems also include a valve in fluid communication with at least one liquid inlet of the reservoir body, and a liquid flow path including tubing attached to the valve and extending to a liquid supply.

Other embodiments relate to methods of cooling a heat seal of a container material. These methods include: forming a length of flat web packaging material into a tubular shape; heat sealing the seams of the tubular shaped packaging material; The seam is in contact with a coated pad comprising a liquid; and, in response to the contacting step, liquid is applied from the coated pad to the heat-sealed seam, whereby when the heat-sealed seam is in a direction away from the coated pad Allow the seams to cool as you travel.

The flat web can be a film.

The heat sealing may be performed at a temperature between 200°C and 300°C with a hot melt adhesive applied to the seam.

The coated pad can be held in the reservoir body below the divider with the spaced aperture and coated pad facing down for contact with the heat-sealed seam of the packaging material.

The method may also include flowing the liquid into the reservoir body at a rate sufficient to apply pressure that allows the coating pad to be coated in a non-drip manner at a film drive velocity of between about 100-330 ft/min. covered with liquid.

An applicator pad may be positioned over at least one film drive belt axially aligned with the product bar.

In some embodiments, a liquid (eg, water) supply may be attached to a dispensing block having an applicator material (eg, an absorbent or wet material such as felt and/or a sponge). The liquid can wick, move or flow through the applicator material in contact with the top of the membrane. This new device causes a thin layer of water to flow over the top of the seam and move in a direction away from the glue sealing module towards the cutter. The contact cooler can be configured such that no water drops fall around or near the membrane drive motor or vacuum belt. The coating mat can be configured to "float" or have some flexibility to accommodate different sized bars and/or so that it can conform to the film and bars as the bars may not be perfectly level and allow the cooler to float a little can be useful.

A heat seal cooler can be located above the product bar.

A heat seal cooler may be located adjacent to the adhesive applicator and above the film drive belt.

In some embodiments, at least one valve can be used to control the delivery of liquid to the distribution block so that the liquid only flows when the membrane is being produced. When the valve is closed to stop the flow of liquid, the coated pad can retain liquid therein without dripping to provide a non-drip contact cooler for the seal formed by the heat seal module.

Some embodiments relate to packaging machines comprising a plurality of cutters held on a rotary table, an adhesive or glue dispenser present at a position upstream of the rotary table, and a nozzle having a nozzle held adjacent to the adhesive or glue dispenser. Position the drum of the drum module.

The drum module may include a bracket to hold the drum.

The drum module may include an actuator cylinder having legs that extend and retract the drum.

The roller module may include first and second frame members having actuator legs attached to the second member and a roller attached to the first member below the actuator legs.

The drum module may include a spring held between first and second members adjacent to the drum.

The drum module may include a third support member present above the first and second support members, and a rod attached to the second and third support members parallel to the actuator legs.

The drum module may include a mounting assembly having an upper frame member present above the first and second lower frame members. The upper bracket member may hold the cylinder such that the actuator legs extend downwardly to attach to the second bracket member, wherein the drum is held by the first bracket member to be closely spaced above the product bar.

The packaging machine may include an automatic film lifter that can be extended and retracted to lift film present at locations adjacent and upstream from the dispenser.

The packaging machine may include a heat seal cooler assembly residing between the rotary table and the drum module. The heat seal cooler assembly may include a reservoir body which may have at least one liquid inlet and at least one holding chamber having walls surrounding an outwardly facing open space. The heat-sealed cooler assembly may further comprise a mat held in the holding chamber such that its outer surface extends a distance outside of the walls surrounding the holding chamber.

Other embodiments relate to packaging machines having a plurality of clippers held on a rotary table, and a heat seal cooler assembly present at a location upstream of the rotary table. The heat seal cooler assembly may include a reservoir body including at least one liquid inlet and at least one holding chamber having walls and having an open space facing outward and a pad retained in the holding chamber Such that its outer surface extends a certain distance outside the walls surrounding the holding chamber.

The wall may enclose or partially enclose the outwardly facing open space.

The packaging machine may include a valve in fluid communication with the reservoir body. The valve can optionally be attached to the reservoir body.

The reservoir body may be rectangular and have a length between 3-10 inches.

The reservoir body may have a height greater than its lateral width and may have a length greater than its height.

The packaging machine may include a liquid flow conduit attached to a valve and a liquid supply.

The pad may have an elongated horizontal orientation and have an outer surface adapted to contact the heat-sealable film.

The pad may be a felt pad or include felt forming its outer surface.

The reservoir body and/or pad may be rectangular and have a length dimension that is greater than a width dimension.

The pad may have a Shore A durometer hardness between 20-40.

The pad may be retained by its upper body portion compressed inwardly within the reservoir body holding chamber.

The pad may comprise felt and may have a felt grade of F3, F5 or F7.

The pad may exist adjacent (and downstream) to the roller such that the roller exists within 0.25 inches and 3 inches of the end of the (applicator) pad.

Although the methods of the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that these features may also be embodied as systems, subsystems, modules and/or computer program products. It should be noted that aspects of the invention described in one embodiment may be incorporated in a different embodiment, although not specifically described therein. That is, all embodiments and/or features of any embodiment may be combined in any manner and/or combination. Accordingly, applicants for this patent reserve the right to vary any originally filed claim or to file any new claim, including the right to be able to amend any originally filed claim to rely on and/or include any feature of any other claim, notwithstanding It was not initially requested in this way. These and other objects and/or aspects of the invention are explained in detail in the specification set forth below.

Description of drawings

Figure 1A is a front view of an exemplary heat sealing module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure IB is an enlarged view of a portion of the module shown in Figure IA.

Figure 1C is a front view of another exemplary heat sealing module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure ID is a front perspective view of a machine similar to that shown in Figure 1C having a heat sealing module, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure IE is a partial top, front perspective view of the machine shown in Figure ID, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

2 is a side perspective view of an exemplary heat-sealed cooler over a heat-sealed seam of a film and product guide bars according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3A is a front perspective view of a packaging system having a multi-clipper rotary platform with a heat seal module as shown in FIG. 1A that may include a heat seal cooler, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

3B is a side perspective view of an exemplary heat-seal module, which may include a heat-seal cooler such as that shown in FIG. 1A , in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

4A is a side perspective view of a reservoir body (eg, applicator holder) according to an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 4B is a front view of the reservoir body shown in Figure 4A.

Figure 4C is a bottom view of the reservoir body shown in Figure 4A.

Figure 4D is an end view of the reservoir body shown in Figure 4A.

Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 5-5 in 4B.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 in FIG. 4D.

Figure 7A is a greatly enlarged partial end perspective view of the reservoir body shown in Figure 4A.

7B is a greatly enlarged partial end perspective view of the reservoir body shown in FIG. 7A showing an exemplary applicator before and after assembly to the reservoir body, according to some embodiments of the present invention .

8 is an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a mounting assembly for a heat seal cooler in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

9 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of a reservoir body for a heat-sealed cooler in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10A is a front view of the reservoir body shown in FIG. 9 .

Figure 10B is a bottom view of the reservoir body shown in Figure 10A.

Figure 10C is an end view of the reservoir body shown in Figure 10A.

Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 in Fig. 10A.

Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 12-12 in Fig. 10C.

13A is a side perspective cross-sectional view of a reservoir body with a pad for heat-seal cooling, according to some embodiments of the invention.

13B is a front perspective view of the reservoir body shown in FIG. 13A mounted to a mounting bracket, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

13C is a side perspective view of a reservoir body and mounting brackets aligned with a bar and heat seal module in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

14A is a side perspective view of another embodiment of a heat-sealed seam cooler in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 14B is a partially exploded view of the assembly shown in Figure 14A.

Figure 14C is a partially exploded view of an exemplary glue nozzle assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 14D is another partial exploded view of the glue nozzle assembly shown in Figure 14C.

15 is a schematic diagram of a heat seal cooler system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 16 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a heat seal cooler system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

17A is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a heat seal cooler system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 17B is a schematic diagram of yet another embodiment of a heat seal cooler system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

18 is a front view of a heat seal module with a heat seal cooler in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram of a data processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

detailed description

The invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the invention are shown. However, this invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the drawings. Features described in one embodiment may be used alone or in another embodiment even though not specifically described in other embodiments.

In the drawings, certain layers, components or features may be exaggerated for clarity, and dashed lines illustrate optional features or operations unless stated otherwise. The terms "figures" and "figures" are used interchangeably with the term "figures" in this application and/or illustrations. In addition, the order of operations (or steps) is not limited to the order presented in the claims, unless specifically stated otherwise. Where used, the terms "attached", "connected", "contacted", "coupled" etc. may mean directly or indirectly unless stated otherwise. The term "concurrently" means that operations are performed substantially simultaneously.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It should also be understood that terms (such as defined in commonly used dictionaries) should be interpreted to have a meaning consistent with their meaning in the relevant art context and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal manner, except in is expressly defined herein.

The term "frame" means an overall skeletal structure for supporting one or more components, modules and/or components. The frame may be a ground mounted frame.

The term "automatic" means that operations can be performed substantially without human assistance, typically using programmed control systems and electrical and/or mechanical devices. The term "semi-automatic" means that operator input or assistance may be employed but the majority of operations are performed automatically by a control system directed by electromechanical devices and programming.

The term "about" indicates that the value may vary by +/- 20%.

In the following description of the embodiments of the present invention, certain terms refer to the positional relationship of certain structures relative to other structures. As used herein, the terms "forward" or "forward" and their derivatives refer to the general or principal direction in which the filling or product travels in the production line to form the packaged product; this term is intended to be synonymous with the term "downstream", "Downstream" is often used in manufacturing or material flow contexts to mean that some material is traveling or being acted on further in the process than other materials. Conversely, the terms "rearward" and "upstream" and their derivatives refer to directions opposite to the forward and downstream directions, respectively.

The term "adhesive" or "glue" means a material which, when applied to a seam or overlapping edge portion of covering or casing material, can adhere to the edge to seal a product (usually in a generally tubular or elongated shape) Material. These seals are generally strong and able to withstand the desired pressure. For food, the adhesive may be food grade, eg biocompatible. Examples of suitable adhesives include, but are not limited to, polymers such as fused HDPE (high density polyethylene).

Embodiments of the invention are particularly suitable for cooperating with a device for producing packaged products, and a cutter applies a cut to seal the product held in the sleeve. The product may be a connected chain of elongate extruded products held in a sleeve. The sleeve or covering may be of any suitable material (edible or inedible, natural or synthetic), such as, but not limited to, collagen, cellulose, elastic, polymer and/or plastic sleeves. The term "film" refers to a thin, flexible sheet of cover material. Films may comprise foils or foil laminates. When used with food, the film, sleeve or covering should be food compatible.

Referring now to the drawings, an exemplary heat sealing module 100 is shown in FIGS. 1A , 1B, 1C, 1D and 1E. As shown, the heat seal module 100 may include an adhesive system 30 having an associated (heated) adhesive flow channel 30f that provides hot melt or other heated adhesive to an adhesive applicator 39 (such as a nozzle or other dispensing member (FIG. 3A)), the cannula (ie, membrane) drive assembly 40 (omitted from FIGS. 1A and 1B, shown in FIGS. 1C-1E, 3A and 3B), and the Heat seal cooler 125 at a position downstream from forming ring 50 near end 52e of product bar 52. The heat-sealing module 100 may include a human-machine interface (HMI) having a controller 10c and a display 1Od, allowing a user to select certain operating parameters and/or check operating status, etc. It must be clarified that the term "module" when used with the phrase "heat seal" refers to the physical subassembly of a packaging system that seals flat stock to package a product, typically a heat seal module that seals film or other sleeve material into a tube shape. The term "module" when used in reference to a data processing system (see FIG. 19, for example) refers to computer-executable program code operable to perform specified logical functions.

As shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, 13C, 14C, and 14D, a heat seal cooler 125 may be present at a location downstream of the membrane drive assembly 40 and spaced from the drive belts 221b, 222b by about 0.1 inches to about 6 inches. within the distance D between inches (Figure 3B). In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1C and 1E , a heat seal cooler 125 may exist above the drive belts 221b, 222b, in line with the bar 52 and a short distance downstream of the adhesive applicator 39 position (FIG. 3B), typically within about 0.10 inches to about 6 inches from applicator 39, more typically between about 0.25 inches and 3 inches.

In the embodiments shown in Figures 1C, 1D, 1E, 13C, 14C, and 14D, for example, the seam cooler 125 may be located further upstream, closer to where the film overlap is sealed, That is, it is adjacent to the nozzle 39 . This arrangement would not be suitable for a "jet" type seam cooler as excess water would enter the vacuum belts 221b, 222b. Preferably, the new seam cooler 125 may be a "no-drip" contact cooler and no liquid coolant enters the vacuum drive system 40 (none or a trace).

It should be noted that while the adhesive heat seal module 100 is shown, the heat seal cooler 125 can be used in other packaging systems, including those that utilize heat, such as heat, such as a heat band 140 ( FIG. 18 ), to seal flat films without adhesive application. packaging system.

As shown in FIGS. 1A-1E , 2 and 13C, the heat seal cooler 125 may include a coated pad 130 that, when advanced (pulled) over the product bar 52, communicates with the The heat seal 62 of the formed film 60 is in contact. The heat seal cooler 125 may include a reservoir body 132 having at least one cavity 132c containing a liquid coolant such as water. Cavity 132c is in fluid communication with coating pad 130 . At least one cavity 132c provides liquid to the coating pad 130 . The applicator pad 130 has an outer exposed surface 130e ( FIG. 2 ) that contacts the heat-sealed seam or region of the film 62 . In use, the applicator pad 130 can be in contact with the film and wipe liquid onto the heat seal 62 . This contact may apply a thin layer of liquid to avoid dripping of liquid from the coating pad onto the ground below the coating pad 130 or onto the membrane drive 40 or its motor. Therefore, the heat seal cooler 125 need not be configured as a closed loop coolant system.

In some embodiments, the liquid (eg, water) reservoir body 132 is in fluid communication with a meter-in valve 135 and a supply flow line 137 ( FIG. 2 ) that communicates with a liquid supply/source 200 ( FIG. 15 ).

The heat seal module 100 is shown in FIG. 1E and/or the associated packaging machine may include an air pilot control valve 1135 for controlling the supply of liquid to the applicator pad 130 . Valve 135 may be continuously or substantially continuously "open" while coating pad 130 is applying cooling fluid to seam 62 (eg, 90% of the time film production is running). In some embodiments, air pilot control valve 1135 controls valve 135 . The air pilot control valve 1135 , where used, can be cycled on/off a specified number of times to establish the flow of liquid supplied to the cavity 132c and then to the applicator pad 130 held by the reservoir body 132 . The cycle can have an "on" longer than an "off" period, equal to an "on/off" period or have an "off" longer than an "on" time. This cycle can be used to reduce liquid flow for slower membrane production. A controller 10c (eg, a PLC) may activate a pneumatic valve in the packaging machine (eg, in a pneumatic box/control box that may pilot control valve 135). A small liquid (eg, water) supply line may be separated from the liquid used to cool the rubber extruder jacket or other components, features, and/or areas of the packaging device.

Applicator pad 130 may be held by reservoir body 132 . Applicator pad 130 may comprise an absorbent or wet material, such as felt and/or a sponge material, as further described below. Thus, the (coolant) liquid used for heat sealing can be imbibed, moved or flowed past the applicator material in contact with/against the film. The heat seal cooler 125 may dispense, wipe or lay down a thin layer of liquid (e.g., water) onto the top of the seam as the film travels past the heat seal cooler 125, and the thin layer of liquid moves away from the heat seal (e.g., , glue seal) is carried away in the direction of the module 100 and can be evaporated before the film reaches the cutter or other closing device. In some embodiments, the liquid cooled heat seal is advanced toward one or more clippers 22 (FIG. 3A). The contact cooler 125 may be configured such that no water drops fall around and near the membrane drive system 40, such as the membrane drive motor and/or vacuum belt.

A controlled volume of liquid may be maintained in the reservoir cavity 132c. This volume can vary over time or remain substantially constant. The at least one reservoir cavity 132c may be sized and configured to maintain sufficient flow and/or movement of liquid coolant (eg, water) through the coated pad 130 . The density/porosity of the coating pad 130 and flow control valve 135 can control the coating of liquid to the heat seal film as long as there is sufficient liquid volume. In some embodiments, a dense but porous material is used for the coated pad 130 due to long-term wear resistance and/or satisfactory performance characteristics.

The coating pad 130 and/or the reservoir body 132 can be configured to "float" or have some flexibility to accommodate different sized bars and/or so that it can conform to the contact film against the bar as the bar 52 may not be completely level.

Mounting assembly 150 may be utilized to attach heat seal cooler 125 to frame 10f of the heat seal module or other support member of the packaging system. Mounting assembly 150 and associated components (heat seal cooler 125 ) may be provided as a retrofit kit and include features of the OEM thermal module system.

As shown in FIGS. 1B , 1C and 2 , for example, at least one cavity 132c of the reservoir body 132 may be in fluid communication with a meter-in flow valve 135 to regulate flow and/or to open the flow of liquid from the supply line 137 and off.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A , 3A and 3B, the flow channel 30f has a generally horizontal first portion combined with a (horizontal) extruder 33 that merges with the conduit , the curve where a pipe, or hose 36 joins, which runs up and then down to an adhesive applicator 39 . Extruder 33 may be stationary and horizontally oriented in fluid communication with feed hopper 31 . The pipe, pipe or hose 36 may have a lower end immediately adjacent an adhesive applicator 39 capable of moving generally vertically between about 3-6 inches, typically between about 4-5 inches distance (downwards for adhesive application or dispensing and upwards when stopped). Heat seal module 100 with fluid adhesive delivery system 30 may optionally include at least four individually controllable thermal zones, illustrated as "A, B, C, D" in FIG. 3B. Individual controls allow the system 10 to electronically monitor and set different (or the same) temperatures in each zone A-D. Other extruder/adhesive systems and different runners can be used. The adhesive applicator 39 may be configured to release multiple strips of adhesive, typically three, to the surface of the film/covering.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1C and 13C , the adhesive system 30 may include a feed hopper 31 located above a horizontal extruder 33 having a flow channel 30f extending to an applicator 39 . The horizontally extending extruder 33 may be oriented to extend in a direction perpendicular to the bar bar 52, as shown. The riser 41 may be located at an upstream location adjacent to the applicator 39 (eg, a dispensing nozzle).

As shown in Figures 1A, 1D, 3A, 3B, and 13C, the system 10 includes a heat-sealing module 100 having a vertically oriented feed hopper 31 that holds bulk adhesive material, typically in solid pellets , in the form of crystals or particles. The adhesive particles may comprise polymers such as HDPE. A feed hopper 31 provides raw material to a horizontally extending screw extruder 33 comprising a barrel in communication with a screw distributor. As shown in the figure, the extruder 33 is stationary and fixed in position. The barrel includes at least one heater, usually two internal heaters, for melting the pellets or other source adhesive material into a flowable form.

As shown in FIGS. 13B , 13C and 14A-14D , a roller module 44 , for example with a downwardly extending roller 43 (typically a spring-loaded roller 43 ), may be located adjacent to the dispenser 39 in its downstream position, In order to squeeze the seam 62 after the adhesive has been applied. Typically, as shown in the figures, the roller 43 is located in front of the heat seal cooler 125, for example between the dispensing nozzle 39 and the heat seal cooler 125, such as 0.25-2 inches from the dispenser 39 and at the edge of the coating pad 130. Between 0.25" and 3" of the nearest end. The roller 43 may apply pressure to the seam 62 ( FIG. 2 ) immediately after the adhesive (glue) is applied to facilitate the formation of a secure flat seal. The drum module 44 may include a fluidic (typically pneumatic) cylinder 47 having an actuator leg 471 to move the cylinder into an operative position. The drum module 44 may include at least one downwardly extending spring 46 which may be present at a location downstream of the drum 43 and which may exert a force independent of air pressure which is generally less than the force exerted by the drum 47 .

The drum module 44 may include first and second bracket members 144b, 144u, with the actuator leg 471 attached to the second member 144u and the drum 43 attached to the first member 144b only below the actuator leg 471.

The drum module 44 (ie, drum assembly) may have a mounting assembly 144 which may include first, second and third brackets 144b, 144u, 47m. The lower or first bracket 144b may hold the roller 43 . The coil spring 46 may be held adjacent to the drum 43 between the first and second bracket members 144b, 144u. An upper or third support member 47m may exist above the first and second support members 144b, 144u. A rod 247 may be attached to the second and third bracket members 144u, 47m and extend in a direction parallel to the actuator leg 471. The lower or first bracket member 144b can hold the drum 43 closely spaced above the product bar 52 .

The fluid flow system may include a pressure sensor that senses pressure in the extruder barrel. The limit pressure can be configured to ensure that the downstream piping or hoses are subjected to excessive pressure; typically set at about 1500 psi, the limit pressure can automatically shut down the system 10 and/or the adhesive system 30 if exceeded. A suitable commercially available extruder is a 3/4 inch screw extruder available from Killion Extruders, Cedar Grove, NJ. Keyways or grooves can be drilled or formed into the inside diameter of the extruder feed section (at approximately the 6 o'clock position opposite the inlet of the feed hopper) to facilitate particle flow into the extrusion in the event of overdriving the motor machine33. Further details of packaging systems and exemplary hot melt sealing systems can be found in US Patent 8,006,463, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference as if set forth in its entirety herein.

As shown in Figures 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D2, 3A and 3B, and as is well known to those skilled in the art, the packaging system 10 and/or heat-sealing module 100 may include a forming ring 50 which The forming ring 50 is configured to form a sealed (bonded) generally tubular sleeve from elastic and/or polymeric sheets and/or planar webs, which is then plugged or filled with a flowable product. More typically, the web is a relatively thin elastic and/or polymeric sheet. The web may be a flat sheet of flexible film that may be formed in situ into a continuous length of heat-sealed and/or connected or joined tubular sleeve. The forming can be performed substantially automatically and continuously for a desired time interval (typically between at least about 45-60 minutes, depending on the length dimension of the web).

Heat sealing can be performed using a hot melt flowable material such as a polymer such as an adhesive that seals the two layers together to form a seam that joins the two long edges/edge sections from the flat web A tubular body is formed. Seam joining may employ additional and/or other suitable sealing methods including, for example, heat sealing tape, ultrasonic, light (ultraviolet or other desired wavelengths of light), chemical, mechanical, and/or other sealing methods. The seams may be butt seams, wing seams, or other overlapping and/or butting configurations, but typically have one long edge 62 of the sleeve 60 that overlaps the other, such as shown in FIG. 2 . The adhesive may be heated to or above its melting point (typically between about 200-300°C) to facilitate flow of the adhesive. The adhesive may be released from the adhesive applicator 30 onto the film at a temperature between about 200-300°C.

The elongated or tubular product to be packaged may be an elongated food product, such as a meat product. Exemplary meat products include, but are not limited to: meat skewers (which may include pepperoni, poultry, and/or beef or other desired meats), and processed meat products (including whole or partial meat mixtures, including sausage , hot dogs, etc.). Other embodiments of the invention may involve sealing other types of food products, such as cheese, or other products in films or other sleeve materials. Examples of other products include powders, such as granular materials, including grain, sugar, sand, explosives, etc., or other flowable materials, including wet pet food (similar to those typically kept in cans) or other powdered, granular , solid, semi-solid or gel-like materials. The packaging product may be used in any suitable industry, including food, farming, agriculture, environmental, chemical, explosives, or other uses.

Figures 1A and 3A show a tension feedback member 70 connected to a filled tensioned sleeve/product (not shown). One member is configured to apply a force to the respective member in response to excess outwardly transferred tension from the pivot arm, resulting in an increase in film velocity, adhesive extrusion rate, and/or adhesive delivery. In operation, members downstream of member 70 are configured to communicate with position sensors to provide feedback to the controller to allow the controller to adjust operating parameters. FIGS. 1A and 3A show that a tension feedback member 70 may be present above the end of the discharge feed support surface 55 .

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate an exemplary packaging system 10 having a rotating platform or table 20 holding a plurality of clippers, which may include heat seal modules 100 . Although illustrated as including (typically two) clippers 22, not all are operational during packaging operations (for example, alternate clippers may be deactivated), or the rotary table 20 may include other numbers (typically between 10 -14 between) the cutting machine 22. The Rota- ^Clip® packaging system is commercially available from TipperTie, Apex, NC. As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B , the rotating platform 20 may have a table top 21 with circumferentially spaced clippers 22 (typically double clippers). The number of peripheral cutters 22 used in conjunction with the rotary table 20, and/or the radially adjustable position of the cutters 22 on the rotary table 20 may allow the production of end products of different lengths. For example, at the same radial position of the guillotines, a single operation using all twelve (12) guillotines 22 can produce a 6-inch product, and if every other guillotine 22 is deactivated, can produce Produce products up to 36 inches. Larger dimensions can be achieved with alternative configurations.

As shown in Figure 3A, the system 10 may include miniature ball valves 22v, typically one for each clipper 22 in communication with a pneumatic control that automatically Activation and deactivation of individual clippers 22 are controlled. As with conventional rotary platform cutters, in operation the sealed filled tubular covering is cut below the deck deck. System 10 may be configured to perform touch screen input on an HMI (human/machine interface) display 10d. This user selectable input can tell the rear and front vacuum belt drives 221, 222 of the membrane drive assembly 40 to be turned on or off, and can automate various control functions. After the membrane 60 is in place, the machine/system 10 is in the ready-to-operate position, where the vacuum belt drives 221, 222 should be closed so that the vacuum belts 221b, 222b are up against the membrane 60, thereby clamping the membrane 60 against the bar 52 and the belts 221b, 222b. This can be done pneumatically using air cylinders which are associated with the vacuum belt drives 221 , 222 . The belts driven by the motors can drive the vacuum belt drives 221 , 222 at the same time. The membrane drive assembly 40 can have an adjustment wheel 225 that can move both vacuum belt drives 221 , 222 (together) towards the front and rear of the machine. This operation allows for substantially equidistant alignment of the front and rear vacuum belt drives with the bar 52 . Once they are equidistant from the bar 52, the vacuum drives 221, 222 can be turned on or off electronically using inputs on the touch screen 10d (FIG. 1A). Turning on and off usually happens simultaneously. It should be noted that while a vacuum film drive is shown by way of example for moving the film through or through the heat sealing module 100, other film drives may be used.

Referring to Figure 3A, two air lines 22a may extend down the central column 12 for each clipper station 22s. One line is the main air line which is used to activate the valves under the sprockets. The second air line allows the clipper door of each clipper 22 to be closed. The second air line may also have an in-line shut-off valve 22v installed in the pipe. If this shutoff valve 22v is used, the air flow to the door cylinders on the individual clippers is shut off. If the door is not closed, the cutter will not "start" (drop the punch or activate the cutter). The reason for turning off the clippers is to obtain a longer product than the typical length of product (eg salmon) that each clipper can handle. For example, if clipper #1 is on, clipper #2 is off, and clipper #3 is on, the product length becomes the distance from clipper #1 to clipper #3.

The system 10 may operate at a rate of a maximum of about 300 pieces/minute or about 300 feet of film/minute, whichever comes first. To further explain the term "whichever comes first": The speed of the overall machine can be measured in feet of film per minute. Smaller length and smaller diameter products can sometimes be pumped faster than larger products. For example, an item or product "salmon" that is 8 inches long by 1 inch in diameter can be pumped and produced faster than a salmon that is 18 inches long by 3 inches in diameter. Embodiments of the present invention can be produced at a rate of 300 pieces per minute as long as the products are 12 inches and smaller. For each device, the pump speed can vary. In some embodiments, system 10 may produce at a rate of between about 100 feet to about 400 feet of film/minute, such as about 300 feet of film/minute.

The rotary platform 20 has a vertical support 12 (which may also be described as a column or leg) which is coupled to a main drive system 20d which rotates the platform and cutter at a desired speed (and may be based on production requirements/ input to automatically change the speed). Air supply lines connected to the various clippers can run down column 12 to the air supply. System 10 may include a single common air supply that may be split to provide air to all clippers. Alternatively, each or group of clippers may have a dedicated separate air supply. Each clipper 22 may include an on-board air supply duct/line with a valve removably connected to the air supply line on column 12 .

System 10 may include a Siemens variable frequency drive and an integrated security system, including, for example, a Siemens Step 7300 processor with an integrated security system, including a Siemens touch screen, motor drive, and security module. The touch screen may include a series of icons and/or image displays that are user activated, or indicate the status of features of various components, such as adhesive nozzle down, pump "on or off," and the like. The motor can be an explosion proof TECO motor that can be mounted outside the electrical box in order to reduce or eliminate cooling problems. The system may include automatic positioning of the vacuum belt drive. The system 10 can be Ethernet for remote access via VPN, and also a field bus (PROFIBUS) for foreign language support.

In some embodiments, the system 10 can be configured to cooperate with an automatic synchronous drive control system that can use a single virtual shaft in order to ramp up to a maximum operating speed, thereby allowing the covering (e.g., membrane) drive , adhesive extruder drive and rotary table drive (using Siemens or similar variable frequency drive system) synchronization. Each drive system can operate at a selected (variable or constant) speed. The membrane and extrusion drive can be operated at any desired speed, including between about 10-400 feet per minute, typically between about 150-300 feet per minute, to provide a sealed tubular covering; more typically, The machine can be operated at an operating speed of approximately 300 feet per minute.

Referring now to FIGS. 4A-4C , 5 , 6 , 7A and 7B , an example of the reservoir body 132 of the heat seal cooler 125 is shown. In this embodiment, the reservoir body 132 has an outer wall surrounding at least one elongated inner liquid cavity 132c that is in fluid communication with a liquid inlet 132i. The liquid inlet 132i is shown in the middle and through the top wall, but could be located elsewhere. The liquid inlet 132i may be provided as a single inlet or as a plurality of inlets.

The reservoir body 132 may also include an interior longitudinally extending partition or wall 132w between the liquid chamber 132c and the holding chamber 133 of the applicator pad 130 . Internal partitions or walls 132w may be configured to provide distribution of liquid over at least a substantial portion of the length of pad 130, and in cases longer than direct flow to the pad from the typically single inlet 132i. These liquid delivery paths are provided by the distribution pattern of the orifices in the reservoir cavity 132 to the coated pad in the holding chamber 133 . As shown in the figure, the partition 132w has at least one aperture 132a extending therethrough so as to define an opening for providing the liquid held in the at least one cavity 132c to the open area 133 holding the coated pad 130. The liquid coating pad 130 exits the pathway.

Applicator pad 130 may be a consumable component that may be replaced at desired intervals by an operator/user. The applicator pad 130 may be removably retained in the holding chamber 133 of the reservoir body 132 .

As shown in the Figures, the reservoir body 132 has a unitary/single-piece construction that provides a reservoir liquid cavity 132c, a partition 132w and a holding chamber 133. However, the reservoir body 132 may alternatively be configured as a separate cooperating member, such as a stackable cooperating member providing the components described above.

Figure 5 shows that the side walls 133w of the holding chamber 133 may be inclined outwardly by an angle β of between about 10-20 degrees, typically between about 12-14 degrees. In some embodiments, angle β can be, for example, about 10 degrees, about 11 degrees, about 12 degrees, about 13 degrees, about 14 degrees, about 15 degrees, about 16 degrees, about 17 degrees, about 18 degrees, about 19 degrees and about 20 degrees. In some embodiments, the upper shoulder of the holding chamber 133s can be sloped downwardly from the sidewall 133w by an angle α, which can be between about 50 and about 80 degrees, typically between about 60 and 80 degrees, More typically between about 65 and 75 degrees (such as about 68-70 degrees).

The applicator pad 130 may have a shape that is compressed when held in the reservoir body 132 as compared to its natural self-supporting shape (without any applied force) outside the reservoir body. FIG. 7B shows the coated pad 130 adopting a natural self-supporting three-dimensional "block-like" shape 130n outside the reservoir body 132 and a compressed shape 130c inside the reservoir body 132. FIG. Coated pad 130 may occupy most or all of the volume of open chamber 133 such that liquid coolant (eg, water) may exit reservoir body 132 only through coated pad 130 . Coating pad 130 may extend a distance "d" outside holding chamber 133 . The holding chamber 133 may have a tapered sidewall 133w extending longitudinally, and a shoulder 133s that may simultaneously apply a compressive force Fc to the coating pad 130 .

The reservoir body 132 can have an open chamber 133 that removably holds the coated pad 130 while allowing one side of the coated pad 130 (e.g., the bottom in the orientation shown in FIGS. Reservoir body 132 extends outwardly a distance "d" to form outer pad contact surface 130e. Distance "d" may be between 10-80%, typically between 10-50%, of the height of coating pad 130 . Distance "d" may be between 0.1 inches and about 1 inch, about 1 inch, but other distance values may be used. In some embodiments, the coating pad 130 may have a height between about 1 inch and 2 inches, and less than the height (typically by about 20% to 60% or less, such as about 25%, about 30%, about 30% %, about 40%, about 45%, and about 50% or less). In some embodiments, the width is about 0.5 inches. In some embodiments, the height of the applicator pad 130 can be about 1 inch, with about 5/8 inch in the holding chamber 133 and about 3/8 in.

As shown in Figures 4C and 6, the at least one aperture 132a may be a plurality of longitudinally spaced apertures 132a in a single laterally centered row. However, the orifices 132a may be provided in other arrangements, such as in multiple conduits, in adjacent conduits with adjacent orifices offset from each other, in different conduits. The orifices 132a are shown as being regularly spaced, typically between about 0.3 and about 0.75 inches, but may be irregularly spaced (not shown).

At least one orifice 132a may be smaller than at least one liquid inlet 132i. For example, liquid inlet 132i may have a diameter between 0.20 and 0.16 inches, and at least one orifice 132a may have a diameter or maximum width dimension between 0.10 and 0.13 inches. At least one aperture 132a can have a maximum width/length dimension (eg, diameter) between 0.10 inches and 0.13 inches, in some embodiments. Although illustrated as circular in FIG. 4C , aperture 132a may have other shapes, including cutouts 132s in one or more of lateral, oblique, or longitudinally extending orientations ( FIG. 7A ).

The number of orifices 132a can vary, typically between 1-100, more typically between 5-50. In the embodiment shown in Figures 4C and 13A, the reservoir body 132' includes 11 orifices 132a, shown arranged in a straight line (although offset designs may be used).

Referring to FIG. 5 , the reservoir body 132 may maintain an internal liquid chamber 132 c above the holding chamber 133 . The holding chamber 133 may have side walls that widen towards the lower end, typically at an angle of between 10-20 degrees to the vertical. The holding chamber 133 may have an upper portion with a shoulder 133s that may have an outer edge that may grip the coating pad 130 when the coating pad 130 is held therein in a compressed shape.

As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B , for example, shoulders 133s may extend inwardly and taper upwardly and face each other in the holding chamber to define a sharp pinch point/surface for coating pad 130 . Coating pad 130 may be retained in holding chamber 133 to have a wider top and bottom configuration relative to the upward/downward extending shape of the compression pad between exposed lower surface 130e and top 130t.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B , applicator pad 130 may protrude from reservoir body 132 facing downward. However, in other embodiments, the reservoir body 132 may be held upside down or sideways from this orientation, thereby positioning the applicator pad 130 at other locations, generally corresponding to the locations of the heat-seal welds/seams.

The reservoir body 132, 132' can be an elongated body, or have a length between 3-10 inches, such as about 3 inches, about 3.5 inches, about 4 inches, about 4.5 inches, about 5 inches, about 5.5 inches, about 6 inches, about 6.5 inches, about 7 inches, about 7.5 inches, about 8 inches, about 8.5 inches, about 9 inches, about 9.5 inches, and about 10 inches.

Applicator pad 130 may have a generally block-like shape, and in some embodiments may be configured as an elongated rectangular body, as shown in the exploded view in FIG. 8 . Coating pad 130 may have a height dimension that is greater than its width dimension. In some embodiments, the applicator pad 130 can have a width (outside the reservoir body 132) of between about 0.3 inches and 1 inch, such as about 0.4 inches, about 0.5 inches, about 0.6 inches, about 0.7 inches, and About 0.9 inches. Coating pad 130 may have a height between about 0.4 and about 0.7 inches. Coating pad 130 may have a length between about 3-10 inches, such as about 3 inches, about 3.5 inches, about 4 inches, about 4.5 inches, about 5 inches, about 5.5 inches, about 6 inches, about 6.5 inches, About 7 inches, about 7.5 inches, about 8 inches, about 8.5 inches, about 9 inches, about 9.5 inches, and about 10 inches.

Coating pad 130 may have other shapes, typically but optionally having a planar membrane contacting surface 130e. The film contacting face 130e may alternatively have a curved shape with a radius of curvature corresponding to the underlying product bar. The coating pad 130 may have a cross-sectional shape of a 'T' shape, a triangular shape, or a polygonal shape such as a pentagon or an octagon.

Applicator pad 130 may comprise a deformable porous material such as felt, foam and/or sponge material. Where applicator pad 130 comprises a sponge material, the sponge may be synthetic or natural and should be able to withstand temperatures of about 200-250°C (or even as high as about 320°C in some embodiments) and at No excessive degradation for a suitable period of operation such as at least one transition (6-8 hours).

The applicator pad 130 may include felt. Felt can be synthetic or natural. Felt can have a high percentage of wool, usually between about 95%-100%. Wool fibers have an elastic cortex packed in a rigid jacket with tiny barbs or scales. Due to heat, moisture, and beating, the fibers relax, curl, and interlock in all directions. With increased tapping and flapping, the fibers are compressed or hardened into a tight, dense mass. The resulting product will be strong and compact while still retaining a degree of elasticity. 100% wool felt is divided into two categories: SAE felt and technical felt (Technical Felt). Density in relation to hardness determines the main performance difference. Methods conventional and known to those skilled in the art can be provided to determine the density of the felt. For example, felt density can be determined by weighing a 36" x 36" x 1" sample, and if a 36" x 36" x 1" sheet of felt weighs 20 lbs, call it "20 lb felt ".

In some embodiments, applicator pad 130 may comprise felt that may have a density between 10-40 lbs/square yard. In some embodiments, coated pad 130 may have a batt density between 10-20 lbs/square yard.

In some embodiments, coating pad 130 may comprise felt having a density of about 10 psi to about 20 psi and having a density of about 80%, 85%, 90%, or 95% or more Great wool content.

The felt can be synthetic and/or natural felt. The felt may be a sheet-like felt which is a dense pressed wool product. Felt may include needle felt, which means that a felt is made by vertically needling fibers together to achieve a desired thickness and density. Needle felts are usually made from wool, synthetic and other reprocessed fibers. When looking at a cross-section of a needle felt, the fibers are arranged vertically, as opposed to a pressed felt where the fibers are arranged horizontally. Needle punched wool felts generally contain a lower percentage of wool compared to SAE wool felts.

The coated pad 130 may have a durometer between 20-40 Shore A, more typically between 20-35 Shore A durometer, such as about 20, about 25, about 30 or about 35 Shore A hardness.

In some embodiments, applicator pad 130 may have a durometer of between 70-86 Shore 00, typically between about 76-83 Shore 00 for sponge/foam materials.

The coated pad 130 may have a tensile strength between about 100-600 (minimum) psi, such as about 150 psi, about 200 psi, about 250 psi, about 300 psi, about 350 psi, about 400 psi, about 450 psi, (minimum) tensile strengths of approximately 500 psi, approximately 550 psi, and approximately 600 psi.

In some embodiments, applicator pad 130 may include felt having a felt grade of F3 (felt grade), F5, or F7.

In some embodiments, the felt may be F3 having a density of approximately 15.6 psi at a thickness of 1", a Shore A durometer hardness of 35, and a nominal (minimum) tensile strength of 400 psi. In In some embodiments, the felt may be F5 having a density of approximately 12.2 psi at 1" thickness, a Shore A durometer of 25, and a nominal (minimum) tensile strength of 400 psi. In some embodiments, the felt may be F7 having a density of approximately 12.2 psi at 1" thickness, a Shore A durometer of 25, and a nominal (minimum) tensile strength of 250 psi.

The coating pad 130 may be wetted by the liquid in the reservoir cavity 132c to an extent that allows the coating pad 130 to apply the liquid to the heat seal of the membrane in a drip-free manner. The term "drip-free" means that after at least 1 hour of operation of a heat-sealed cooler with a heat-sealed module 100 (FIG. No accumulation or pooling of liquid from the heat seal cooler 125 was found in adjacent components. During normal operation, the liquid (eg, water) can be seen visually as a water film or luminescent layer of water that is entrained as the film moves downstream toward the heat seal cooler 125 . The term "non-dripping" also means that when the liquid pressure from the flowing liquid supply source of the reservoir body 132, 132' is relieved, the liquid does not continue to flow or drip from the coating pad 130, even when the reservoir body is removed. Oriented so that the pad 130 is vertical and exposed above the bar 52 .

FIG. 8 shows an exemplary mounting assembly 150 for mounting the heat seal cooler 125 to the heat seal module 100 of the packaging machine 10 . The mounting assembly 150 includes a reservoir body retaining bracket 155 that retains the reservoir body 132 in a vertically adjustable manner. As shown, bracket 155 may be attached to slide plate 156 held by bracket 158 having track 159 . The frame support 158 with rails may be stationary and attached to the frame of the heat sealing module 100 and/or the packaging system 10 . Plunger lock pin 152 may extend through mounting bracket 155 to engage frame bracket 158 to lock mounting bracket 155 at the proper height. Other mounting configurations are also possible.

Mounting bracket 150 may float relative to product bar 52 for a length such that coating pad 130 may conform to the film and bar 52 since bar 52 may not be perfectly level.

The meter-in flow control valve 135 may be held by the reservoir body 132 . A “T” fitting 136 may be sealingly attached to the inlet 132 i , providing connection of the flow conduit 137 ( FIG. 2 ) to the meter-in flow valve 135 .

9 , 10A-10C , 11 and 12 illustrate another embodiment of the reservoir body 132 ′ of the heat seal cooler 125 . In this embodiment, the reservoir body 132 ′ has mounting ears 160 with slots 161 for vertical height adjustment when mounted to the packaging system/heat seal module 100 . Shoulder bolt 170 ( FIG. 9 ) may extend through slot 161 to allow the bolt to float.

Figures 13A-13C show an embodiment similar to that shown in Figures 9, 10A-10C, 11 and 12. The reservoir body 132 may be held by a mounting bracket 150 ′ attached to the frame or housing of the packaging machine 10 . Mounting bracket 150 ′ can hold cylinder 147 that can cause actuator leg 1471 to move up and down on vertical slide arm 149 to position pad 130 held by reservoir body 132 . The reservoir body 132 may include at least one inlet flow valve 135 .

Figures 14A and 14B show an embodiment similar to that shown in Figures 9 and 13C. In this embodiment, the reservoir body 132 (i.e., a holder for a coated pad which may optionally be or include a felt pad) may be held by a mounting bracket 150" having a first interface. The slit cooler holder portion 125b and may also include an adjacent roller support portion 44b. The mounting bracket 150' may be a unitary plate having a first planar wall 150w ₁ that merges into _an adjacent concave planar wall _{150w 2 that} exists in the The centerline of the bar 50 is recessed or at a lateral distance inward.

Bracket 150'' may hold pneumatic valve 135' and valve flow control gauge 135f in fluid communication with connection 136' for inlet port 132i of reservoir 132'. The heat seal cooler assembly may include a water supply diverter member 200c connected to valve 135' and to a water supply line/flow path from a water source 200 (FIG. 15), such as from an extruder water jacket or from Feed water for the extruder water jacket which also supplies the water jacket of the extruder (not shown).

Figures 14C and 14C illustrate an exemplary glue nozzle assembly 100a, which may optionally be provided in retrofit kit form and/or may be attached during new manufacture of the packaging machine. Assembly 100a may include nozzle and roller bracket 126 . Bracket 150 ″ may be attached to bracket 126 to hold drum assembly 44 and hot seam cooler 125 in a position downstream of applicator nozzle 39 and film hook/lifter 41 .

The nozzle 39 may be held by the heating block assembly 139 and may be present between the hook/lifter 41 and the roller assembly 44 with the roller 43 .

The drum assembly 44 may include upper and lower blocks 144u, 144b attached to a drum drum support 47m which also holds the drum 47 . The lower block 144b may retain the wheel 43 with a pin (eg, a laterally extending shaft) 178 .

The nozzles 39 may extend inwardly (across/on the opposite side of the longitudinally extending centerline of the product bar) to face the seal cooler 125 (FIG. 14D).

The assembly 100a can include a glue nozzle positioning assembly 246 having a laterally extending rod 246r that can pass laterally through the lifter/hook 41 in front of the nozzle 30, generally aligned with the lifter 41 or longitudinally offset from the lifter 41 Move to a distance between 0.1 inch and 1 inch. During operation, the lifter 41 and the glue nozzle 39 may be aligned vertically, eg in a normal height position.

In some embodiments, there may be an offset between the adjustment rod 246r and the plate 126 of between about 3 inches and about 4 inches due to the space for the link at the end of the adjustment rod 246r.

In some embodiments, the adjustment rod 246r may have a length of between about 1 foot and about 2 feet, such as about 18 inches. The rod 246r may be sufficiently long to touch the outer edge of the frame where the operator has easy access to make adjustments.

Glue nozzle positioning assembly 246 may allow for lateral adjustment by rotating knob 246k. The glue nozzle positioning assembly 246 can include upper and lower glue nozzle guides 341u, 341b that can slide on the track/shaft 342. The vertically oriented cylinder 241 allows the glue nozzle positioning assembly 246 to be raised and lowered.

The nozzles may be held by a nozzle subassembly 239 having a glue nozzle guard 239g. The glue nozzle 39 may be held by a glue nozzle block 139, which may include a heater element. The nozzle subassembly includes a port/connector 239f for connection to a conduit associated with an extruder 33 (eg, FIG. 13C ) for supplying glue. A glue nozzle block 139 may be attached to the nozzle and roller bracket 126 .

The hook actuation cylinder 141 can pivot the hook/lifter 41 to lift a seam edge to allow the nozzle 39 to apply glue/adhesive. Actuation cylinder 141 may be oriented horizontally, as shown in the figures. The hook 41 may include an aperture 41a to which a shoulder bolt 159 can be attached to a fixed threaded nut 103 which may cooperate with and/or be a hook (membrane lifter) 41 provides a pivot.

Glue nozzle assembly 100a may include U-shaped joint 111 attached to bracket 122 held by cross bracket 126 to cooperate with cylinder 241 (in the configuration/orientation shown in FIG. above and coincident with the cylinder 241) allows the glue nozzle assembly 100a to travel up and down, thereby raising and lowering the glue nozzle 39 vertically.

It should be noted that while FIGS. 8 , 9 and 13A show the exemplary reservoir body 132 as a single (unitary) body, the reservoir body may be presented as a set of attached or spaced reservoir bodies. Form provided, as coated pad 130.

Coating pad 130 may be a single unitary pad or may be provided in the form of a plurality of pads that are vertically stacked and/or longitudinally arranged in contact with each other or closely spaced by, for example, 1-10 mm.

Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of one example of a heat seal cooler control circuit 100c. The circuit 100c may be configured to control on/off or flow of liquid from the liquid supply 200 into the reservoir body 132, 132'. Liquid supply 200 may be any suitable liquid, such as water. The liquid can be non-volatile and/or non-hazardous. In terms of food-based production, the water can be clean and suitable for use in food production facilities.

The flow rate from liquid supply 200 into reservoirs 132, 132' may vary for a respective heat seal cooler 125, typically based at least in part on the film production rate. The film velocity can be used to select an appropriate flow rate to provide an amount of liquid supply that can sufficiently cool the heat-sealed seam. A predetermined correlation (eg, computer database lookup chart) of membrane speed based on glue usage and/or membrane performance may be provided to automatically provide liquid flow suitable for reliable cooling during operation.

The liquid in the reservoirs 132, 132' may be at ambient temperature and need not be cooled. For example, the controller 10c may be configured to automatically close the valve 135 in fluid communication with the liquid supply to the reservoir 200 to "closed" based on a triggering event or user input to initiate production mode on the display 10d when no film is being produced. ", and can be configured to automatically turn the valve to "open" when the membrane is being produced. A user may also manually close valve 135 . For example, this automation prevents pooling or dripping of liquid when membrane production stops.

In some embodiments, the flow rate of liquid into the reservoir body 132, 132' during production can be between about 1 ml/min and about 3500 ml/min, and in some embodiments can be at about 100 ml /min and about 3000 ml/min. The flow may be a continuous "drip" or slow rate and/or may be a continuous short on/off cycle, or may be forced to pass an excess amount of liquid through the coating pad 130 without overfilling to maintain the desired pressure. And/or faster flow into the holding chamber 133 with the coated pad 130 at a rate/replenishment rate sufficient to maintain the reservoir at the desired liquid capacity.

At the start of each batch, for example, the controller 10c may command the flow of liquid into the reservoir body 132, 132' to pre-fill to a specified level or volume so that once the film is produced, the heat seal cooler 125 can be activated, And the application pad 130 is sufficiently wetted to be able to apply the liquid to the heat-sealing film. The controller 10d may be configured to prevent the membrane seal until the heat seal cooler is ready to operate effectively and there is sufficient liquid in the reservoir cavity and/or pre-fill/contact the coated pad with sufficient liquid to provide heat seal cooling.

The sensor may be used to confirm that the liquid level in the reservoir body is correct and/or to confirm that the applicator pad 130 is in the correct position or is sufficiently wet. For example, a "blank" substrate with a liquid sensor can be placed on the bar 52 below the coating pad 130, and the controller 10c can monitor the sensor and then allow/start film production or start a heat seal module, for example. In other embodiments, the liquid sensor may be placed in the coated pad itself, above the exposed face 130e , or in the sidewall 133s of the holding chamber 133 .

While not wishing to be bound by a particular membrane velocity or liquid flow, an example of flow calculations for an approximately 300 ft/min mode of operation is described below.

Thermal properties of Nova Sclair 2714:

Softening point: 119°C;

Melting temperature: 170-280°C (average glue coating temperature 200°C)

Constant cooling drop temperature: 150°C.

Cooling temperature ∆T=200-150=50℃

Sclair Glue Temperature Use: p/n 99-0936 2 Hole Nozzle Hole Size: 0.036” x 2

Sectional area A=0.657 mm²

Membrane Velocity = (300 ft/min in this case)

Glue use speed (unit ml/min) = 0.657/100×30.48

If membrane velocity equals 300 ft/min, glue usage = 60 ml/min (single well)

Total glue usage = 60 x 2 = 120 ml/min or 4 x (ft/min)

Cp reference water Cp=1 Kcal/kg ℃

HDPE Cp=0.55 Kcal/kg

Water flow calculation:

When water Cp=HDPE Cp, thermal equilibrium is reached

Therefore, water flow = ∆T x HDPE Cp x mass of 2714 = 50 x 0.55 x 120 = 3300 ml/min or approximately 3.3 liters/min.

Figure 15 also shows a timing diagram that may be used by the controller 10c to synchronize the timing of operation of various components of the heat seal cooler system (eg opening/closing of valve 135 based on film production on/off or start/stop).

Figure 16 shows that the control circuit 100c can have a common or common liquid supply 200 that can be used to provide liquid to the reservoirs 132, 132' and to the glue extruder (housing) 33 For cooling using the T channel from the liquid supply source 200 . The liquid flow path may include a control valve 235 for automatic on/off and/or flow control operation.

Figures 17A and 17B illustrate a series of reservoir bodies 132 that may be used in place of the unitary bodies 132, 132' described above. FIG. 17A shows that a single inlet control valve can be used for each inlet 132 . FIG. 17B shows that each inlet can have a separate flow control valve 135 . For example, Figure 17B also shows that the individual reservoir bodies can be mounted together using slide bars 333 or other attachment structures. Although not shown, a plurality of adjacent coated pads 130 may be retained by respective reservoir bodies 132, 132'.

FIG. 18 illustrates a heat seal cooler 125 used with a different packaging system 10' having a heat seal assembly 140 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. For more details on this type of system, see US Patent Application Publication Serial No. 2015/0119218, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference as if set forth in its entirety herein.

19 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a data processing system, illustrating systems, methods and computer program products according to embodiments of the invention. Processor 410 is in communication with memory 414 via address/data bus 448 . Processor 410 may be any commercially available or custom microprocessor. Memory 414 is representative of the general hierarchy of storage devices that include software and data for performing the functions of the data processing system. Memory 414 may include, but is not limited to, the following types of devices: cache, ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, flash memory, SRAM, and DRAM.

As shown in FIG. 19, memory 414 may include: several types of software and data for use with data processing system 405; operating system 452; application programs 454; (I/O) device drivers 458; automatic fluid on/off a control module 450 that can synchronize liquid flow into the reservoir with membrane production; and data 456 .

Data 456 may include lookup tables for different "recipes" and associated drive speed, cutter and table position setting information, etc., corresponding to specific or targeted products for one or more manufacturers. Data 456 may be a synchronous drive module for synchronizing drive speeds of different cooperating systems (eg, membrane drive systems, table rotation on drive systems, extrusion speed, pump speed, etc.). The speed of the film/cover 60 or the rotation speed of the turntable 20 etc. can be adjusted based on real-time feedback of machine operating status, eg based on tension/force feedback from the dancer arm described above in FIG. 3A . The selection of all, groups, and/or individual clippers 22 can be automated on a "scenario" basis to activate or deactivate at different (often alternating) clipper stations (e.g., stations 1-12) certain cutting machines.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, operating system 452 may be any operating system suitable for use with a data processing system, such as OS/2, AIX, DOS, OS/390, or System 390; Windows CE, Windows NT, Windows 95, Windows 98, or Windows 2000 from Microsoft Corporation; Redmond, WA, Unix or Linux or Free BSD, Palm OS from Palm Limited; Mac OS from Apple Computer Inc.; system. Input/output device drivers 458 typically include software routines accessed by applications 454 communicating with devices such as I/O data ports, data storage 456 and certain memory 414 components via operating system 452 . Application programs 454 are illustrative of programs that execute various features of data processing system 405, and preferably include at least one application program that supports operation in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. Finally, data 456 represents static and dynamic data used by application programs 454 , operating system 452 , input/output device drivers 458 , and other software programs that may reside in memory 414 .

While the invention has been described, for example, with reference to module 450, which is an application in FIG. 19, forms thereof may also be employed that would benefit from the teachings of the invention, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. For example, module 450 may also be incorporated into operating system 452 , input/output device drivers 458 , or other such logical classification of data processing system 405 . Accordingly, the present invention should not be construed as limited to the configuration of FIG. 19, and the invention is intended to include any configuration capable of performing the operations described herein.

I/O data ports may be used to communicate information between data processing system 405 and a downstream cutter or another computer system or network (eg, the Internet or Ethernet) or other device controlled by the processor. These components may be conventional components, such as those used in many conventional data processing systems, which in accordance with the present invention may be configured to operate in the manner described herein.

Although the invention has been described, for example, with reference to specific program categories, functions and memory, the invention should not be construed as limited to such logical categories. Thus, the present invention should not be construed as limited to the configuration of Figure 19, but the invention is intended to encompass any configuration capable of performing the operations described herein.

The operation and sequence of events can be controlled by a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). Modes of operation and certain input parameters or machine controls may be selected or controlled by operator input using a Human Machine Interface (HMI) in communication with the controller, as is well known to those skilled in the art.

The block diagrams illustrate the structure, function, and operation of possible embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in a flowchart or block diagram represents a module, section, or portion of code that includes one or more executable instructions for performing the specified logical functions. It should also be noted that, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may in fact be executed substantially concurrently or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, based on the related functionality.

The foregoing is illustrative of the invention and should not be construed as limiting the invention. Although a few exemplary embodiments of this invention have been described, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the exemplary embodiments without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of this invention. . Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this invention as defined in the claims. In the claims, function-limiting clauses, if used, are intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures. Therefore, it is to be understood that the foregoing is an illustration of the invention and should not be construed as limited to the particular embodiments disclosed and that modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as other embodiments, are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims . It is intended that the invention be defined by the appended claims and the invention shall include equivalents of the claims.

Claims (14)

1. a packaging machine；Including

It is kept multiple guillotines on a spinstand；With

Being positioned at the heat-sealing chiller assembly of the upstream position of described turntable, described heat-sealing chiller assembly includes:

Reservoir body；With

Pad, described pad is kept in described reservoir body and the outer surface of described pad is positioned at outside described reservoir body Side.

2. packaging machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein, described reservoir body includes at least one liquid inlet and has At least partly at least one of the wall of the open space that enveloping surface is outside keeps room, and wherein, the outer surface of described pad is at bag The outside of described wall enclosing described holding room extends certain distance, thus to contact the cylinder along product horn tractive It is positioned at the seam of the heat-sealing film of lower section.

3. packaging machine as claimed in claim 1, also includes the valve being in fluid communication with described reservoir body, optionally, and its Described in valve be attached to described reservoir body.

4. packaging machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein, described reservoir body is rectangle, and has at 3-10 inch Between length.

5. packaging machine as claimed in claim 3, also includes being attached to described valve and the liquid flow conduits of liquid source of supply.

6. packaging machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein, described pad has the orientation of elongated level, and has applicable In the described outer surface contacted with heat-sealing film.

7. packaging machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein, described pad is felt mattress.

8. packaging machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein, described reservoir body is rectangle, and has more than broad-ruler Very little length dimension.

9. packaging machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein, described pad has the Shore A durometer hardness between 20-40.

10. packaging machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein, described pad is maintained at described by the upper main part of its inward compression Reservoir body keeps in room.

11. packaging machines as claimed in claim 1, wherein, described pad is felt and the felt etc. with F3, F5 or F7 Level.

12. packaging machines as claimed in claim 1, also include having heat-sealing band and the heat-sealing module of vacuum diaphragm driving means, And the described reservoir body of wherein said heat-sealing cooler is in the position adjacent with the downstream of described film driving means, The described film driving means distance reached between 0.1 inch and 6 inches with interval.

13. packaging machines as claimed in claim 1, also include the support being attached to described heat-sealing chiller assembly, and its Described in support also keep the drum assembly that includes cylinder, described cylinder is adjacent with described pad but longitudinally spaced with described pad, because of The bottom of this each several part is mutually aligned.

14. packaging machines as claimed in claim 1, also include that cylinder, described cylinder are positioned at and the position of described heat-sealing cooler Putting adjacent, the most described cylinder is positioned at and adjacent 0.25 inch and 3 inches of the end of described coating pad.