MX2014015527A

MX2014015527A - Improvements to continuous motion rotatable forming of soluble pouches.

Info

Publication number: MX2014015527A
Application number: MX2014015527A
Authority: MX
Inventors: James Fowler; Boris Makutonin
Original assignee: Rideau Machinery Inc
Priority date: 2012-06-23
Filing date: 2013-06-21
Publication date: 2015-06-03
Also published as: JP2015521570A; CN104582936A; CA2876991A1; JP6178848B2; EP2864106A2; BR112014032130A2; WO2013190517A3; WO2013190517A2; US20150336691A1

Abstract

A machine and method of forming multi-compartment pouches is disclosed in which two pouches formed on separate adjacent formers (1, 3) are brought together in register and the lidding webs (9, 15) of the pouches joined to form a combined pouch (33). The pouches may be held on the formers (1, 3) by vacuum until the pouches are joined whereupon the vacuum holding one of the pouches on its former (1) is released while maintaining the vacuum holding the other pouch on its former (3) so that the combined pouches (33) are held on that former by the vacuum until the vacuum is released.

Description

IMPROVEMENTS FOR ROTATING TRAINING WITH CONTINUOUS MOVEMENT OF SOLUBLE BAGS This invention relates to improvements in, or relating to, the rotating formation with continuous movement of soluble pouches. More specifically, the invention relates to machines and methods for producing bags with multiple compartments of four soluble substrates.

In WO 2002/085736, a process for producing a water soluble container comprising at least two compartments has been described, sealing together two bags with unique compartments. The compartments may be formed by any method that produces an open container, for example, by vacuum forming, thermoforming, blow molding or injection molding, and are adjacent to one another having been formed concurrently. The compartments are then filled with a composition and closed with a lid, so that the compartments are joined by a bending portion. The folding portion is then folded so that the lids of each of the compartments adhere to each other. Any method can be used to seal the compartments together, including pressure as a snap fit, an adhesive such as an aqueous solution of PVOH, or sealed with heat. Other sealing methods are described that include infrared, radiofrequency, ultrasonic, laser, solvent, vibration and rotation welding. The adhesive can be applied to the caps by spraying, transfer coating, roller coating or otherwise coating, or the caps can be passed through a vapor of the adhesive. The bending portion can be removed later, in order to provide an even more attractive appearance.

The previous process has disadvantages. The presence of a bending portion means that at least two compartments must be adjacent to one another in order to allow subsequent folding. The process is difficult to scale, in order to achieve economies of scale, since the bending and trimming process is problematic, particularly where at least two compartments contain different products, and it is difficult to consider how a bending mechanism can allow a number of compartments greater than two.

In one aspect, the present invention provides a continuously moving machine for producing water soluble pouches comprising two or more compartments of four water soluble polymer networks, wherein two pouches are formed, filled and sealed in adjacent donor and receptor formers, each bag is formed of two networks polymeric water soluble, and wherein the two such bags are held by vacuum in their formers, until they are brought together in register to form a combined bag, after which the vacuum in the donor former is removed, releasing its bag to the receiver former, and the combined bag still held by vacuum in the receiver former is separated from the combined network.

The water-soluble substrates can comprise any suitable polymeric material, such as those substantially based on polyvinyl alcohol. The polymeric material can be extruded or emptied into solution to form a network. The network can be a single layer or multilayer water soluble film. The polymeric material can be approved for ingestion by humans and / or animals.

It may be that the bags are formed by two networks, a base network and a sealing network. The trainers can have recesses to create open compartments or bags in the base network by any suitable training operation, such as vacuum forming or thermoforming. The open compartments or bags can be filled with one or more products before being closed by the sealing networks, and then sealed or joined together to form a combined network of closed and filled sealed bags. The base networks preferably comprise a polymeric material which is sufficiently elastic, and of sufficient thickness to allow it to be formed with vacuum or thermoform in the cavities of the respective former without being punctured.

It may be that the sealing net of a closed bag in a former is only sealed or partially joined to the sealing net of a closed bag in the other former to form a combined bag. As a result, an aqueous medium in which the combined bag is placed may be able to penetrate between the sealing nets of the closed bags more rapidly, and thereby accelerate the dissolution.

It may be that a perimetric seal is formed between the sealing nets of two bags. The perimeter seal may be a partial seal or a complete seal.

It may be that the contents of each compartment are released in an aqueous medium at different times. Alternatively, the contents of each compartment can be released in an aqueous medium at substantially the same time.

It may be that a solid article is placed between the sealing nets of the closed bags before the sealing nets are sealed together, thereby creating an additional compartment.

It may be that a device is provided to drill one or more of the base networks.

It may be that one or more of the base networks is drill before forming open compartments or bags.

It may be that one or more base networks are drilled while the open compartments or bags are being formed.

It may be that one or more base networks are drilled after the formation of the open compartments or bags.

It may be that different levels of vacuum can be applied in different positions around one or both trainers. For example, when the bags are combined and held in a former, the level of vacuum holding the combined bag can be increased.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for producing water soluble pouches comprising two or more compartments by forming, filling and sealing two bags in separate formers, each of two water-soluble substrates and attaching two such bags. together to form a combined bag comprising two or more compartments.

The water-soluble substrates can comprise any suitable polymeric material, such as those substantially based on polyvinyl alcohol. The polymeric material may be in the form of a network. The network can be a single layer or multilayer water soluble film. The polymeric material can be approved for ingestion by humans and / or animals.

It may be that the method uses a machine according to the previous aspect of the invention.

It may be that one or more compartments contain a combination of at least two components comprising a granular or powdered product, a thickened liquid or gel, and a solid three-dimensional article, so that all components retain their identity and none of the components Become mutually antagonistic It may be that the base webs of the bags comprise a polymeric material that is sufficiently elastic and of sufficient thickness to allow it to be formed with vacuum and thermoform in the cavities of the respective former without being perforated.

It may be that the bag sealing nets are only sealed or partially joined together. In this way, an aqueous medium in which a bag is placed, may be able to penetrate between the bag sealing nets more quickly, and thus improve dissolution.

It may be that a perimeter seal is formed between the sealing nets of two bags. The perimeter seal may be a partial seal or a complete seal.

It may be that one of the bags is transferred from its rotating former to a second rotating former, the sealing nets of both bags are sealed or joined together for form a united bag, and the joined bags are separated from the network.

It may be that the method includes forming a first network of bags in a rotary donor former, forming a second network of bags in a rotating receiver former, bringing together the first and second bag networks with the bags in the first network in register with the bags in the second network, joining the bags in the first network with the bags in the second network, and removing the vacuum holding the bags in the donor former to release the combined network of combined bags from the donor former, while the combined network of combined bags is still held by vacuum in the receiving former, separating the combined bags from the combined net, and subsequently removing the vacuum holding the separate combined bags in the receiving former.

Each network of bags may comprise a base network and a sealing network. The base network can be formed to provide open compartments or bags to receive one or more components, before closing the open compartments or bags with the sealing network to form the closed bags. The sealing nets of the closed bags in one former can be attached to the sealing nets of the closed bags in the other former. The sealing nets can be joined by a perimeter seal. The stamp perimetric can be a partial seal or a complete seal.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a water soluble pouch comprising two or more compartments made by a machine or method in accordance with the above aspects of the invention.

It may be that the bags are sealed or joined together only partially in order to improve dissolution.

It may be that a solid component is inserted between the two bags before the two bags are sealed or joined together.

In the present invention, the aforementioned disadvantages of WO 2002/085736 are overcome by a process in which the compartments are provided by independently forming, filling and sealing the bags in separate formers, and then presenting the bags one at a time. the other for sealing to form a bag with multiple compartments. In this way, the filled and sealed bags that provide the compartments, can be placed exactly on top of each other, and then sealed together to form the bag with multiple compartments. The rotary formers can be of the type described in our earlier patent application WO 2011/061628. In certain of the simpler embodiments of the present invention, the appearance of the finished product is not different from that produced by means of WO 2002/085736, but the process by which it has been made is different.

The machine and method of the above aspects of the invention produce pouches comprising two or more compartments of four water-soluble substrates. Two such substrates are needed to produce each independently formed compartment and an additional compartment can be created between the two independently formed compartments, immediately before sealing together the two compartments formed independently. One or more of the four substrates can be punctured. Each substrate can be dissolved at the same temperature or pH. Alternatively, each substrate can, for example, be dissolved at a different temperature or at a different pH in order to allow sequential release of the contents of each compartment. The water-soluble substrates can comprise any suitable polymeric material, such as those substantially based on polyvinyl alcohol. The polymeric material may be in the form of a network. The network can be a single layer or multilayer water soluble film. The polymeric material may be approved for ingestion by humans and / or animals.

The thickness of each water soluble substrate can vary according to: 1. The depth of formation of each base network and the volume of each compartment 2. The type of filler, whether by way of example, a solid article, powder, granules, liquid, thickened liquid, gel, hot melt or other types of filing 3. The desired dissolution time of each bag 4. The quantity and / or pattern of the solvent applied to each sealing network before sealing each compartment The application of the solvent to a sealing network before sealing reduces the strength of this network due to partial dissolution and replastification or softening of the network. However, the sealing networks may, however, typically be thinner than the base networks since the sealing networks are not subjected to the forming operation. In this invention, the sealing networks of each compartment are subsequently sealed together to form a combined network, which may have a thickness more or less equal to the sum of the thicknesses of the two sealing networks. The thickness of the sealing networks combined can increase the dissolution time. Where the rate of dissolution is important, it may be desirable to minimize the thickness of each sealing network in order to minimize an increase in dissolution time. The double thickness of the seal or joint between the two bags can be detrimental to the dissolution rate of the attached bag. In order to reduce any increase in the dissolution time, the sealing networks may not be completely sealed together, but only partially sealed together. This can be achieved by applying a solvent only to part of the sealing networks and / or applying heat and pressure to only a part of the flange surrounding the compartment. By this means, the dissolution time may not necessarily increase, since the aqueous medium in which the bag is placed, will be able to penetrate more easily into the space between the two sealing networks. Subject always to the considerations of the previous dissolution speed, as much as possible of the periphery of the seal or union between the two bags, it can be sealed in order to improve the attraction of the joined bags.

It may be that the sealing nets of each compartment are superimposed on one another before sealing the two compartments together. It may be that the sealing nets of each compartment are held together such way, that a compartment is placed in a required position in the second compartment. The first compartment can be placed symmetrically in the second compartment, but in some embodiments of the present invention, the first compartment can be placed asymmetrically in the second compartment, but nevertheless, still in register. The process of bringing the two bags together in a required position one in relation to the other, refers in the technique as carrying the two bags together in register. The carrying of the two bags in register is desirable in order that the subsequent process of separating the bags with two or more compartments from one another, by cutting in the machine direction and then in the transverse direction, can be carried out effectively. The exact registration of the two bags before sealing them together can also be beneficial for the commercial appeal of a bag with two or more compartments. Accurate recording can be achieved by using a separate servo drive in each trainer, one being the principal and the other being auxiliary.

The time taken for each compartment to release its contents in the aqueous medium in which a bag with two or more compartments according to this invention has been placed may vary so that the release time of the contents of each compartment is different. Such sequential release may be of commercial value in applications where the contents of a bag are required for immediate release, and the contents of a second bag are required for a later time.

A tablet or other solid object can be placed between the two bags after each has been closed with a sealing net, but before the two bags are joined together. The content of each compartment can be solid, granular or powder, liquid of any viscosity or gel. In the case where one of the compartments contains a solid material, the placement of a tablet between two sealed pouches can be facilitated by providing the sealed pouch containing a solid material with a perforated base web that allows excess air to be extracted by Empty the sealed bag before placing a tablet in the largest space created between the two sealed bags.

The sealing or joining of two bags to form a combined bag comprising two or more compartments, is typically effected by a combination of pressure and partial or complete wetting, leading to adhesiveness of the outer (top) surface of any of the sealing networks . The selection of which sealing network is partially or completely wetted before sealing or joining together the two bags, will depend on the thickness of the sealing networks respective and their dissolution properties. Any sealing network can be selected for the application of the wetting agent. Typically, the least easily soluble of the respective sealing networks will be selected to partially or completely wet before sealing or joining the two bags together. Where the sealing nets are made of the same water soluble polymer formulation, the sealing film that is selected for wetting is typically thicker than the non-moistened sealing film. For example, the wet seal film can be up to 50% thicker than the non-wetted sealing film.

During the process by which the two bags are combined together in a bag with multiple compartments, the vacuum that holds each bag in its respective receptacle is regulated and controlled. The vacuum in the receptacles of the donor former is maintained, for example, by means of a vacuum shoe designed and placed in a precise manner, until two bags have been combined together, a precise point at which the vacuum of the donor former is released. Conversely, the vacuum in the receptacles of the receiver former is maintained until the two bags are combined together, and therefore, until the bags with multiple compartments attached, now joined together in a combined network, are transported to a station. from cutting in the receiving former, where they are separated from each other, for example, by blades mounted in the machine direction and the transverse direction, and the vacuum is subsequently released, allowing the bags with multiple compartments attached, to fall or to move away from the receiver former towards a moving conveyor, which transports the network of bags with multiple compartments to a downstream packaging operation. Once the bags with multiple compartments have been separated from each other, the cut side of the net is removed by vacuum or otherwise to a collection system for disposal or recycling.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a water-soluble pouch with multiple compartments produced from four water-soluble networks, comprising a first water-soluble pouch and a second water-soluble pouch, wherein a compartment is created between the two pouches .

It may be that a solid object such as a tablet or a water soluble pouch or capsule made out of line, is inserted into the compartment between the two pouches.

It may be that the two bags are sealed or joined together by means of a partial perimetric seal.

It may be that the two bags are sealed or joined together by means of a complete perimeter seal.

It may be that at least one of the compartments of the first or second water-soluble bag is perimetric.

It may be that the seal pressure exerted between the first and second water-soluble pouches is adjustable.

The features of any of the above aspects of the invention may be employed separately or in combination with the same or different aspects of the invention.

The invention will now be described in more detail by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a machine according to a first embodiment of the invention; Figure 2 shows a machine according to a second embodiment of the invention; Figure 3 shows a machine according to a third embodiment of the invention; Figures 4a and 4b are plan and sectional views of a multi-compartment bag produced by the machines of Figures 1 to 3; Figure 5 shows a machine for producing bags with multiple compartments according to a fourth embodiment of the invention; Figures 6a and 6b are plan views and in section of a bag with multiple compartments produced by the machine of Figure 5; Figures 7a, 7b show plan and sectional views of an alternate, multi-compartment bag according to the invention; Figures 8a, 8b show plan and sectional views of a multi-compartment, alternating bag according to the invention; Figures 9a, 9b show plan and sectional views of an alternate, multi-compartment bag according to the invention; Figures 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d show plan, perspective and sectional views of an alternate, multi-compartment bag according to the invention; Figures 11, 11b show plan and sectional views of a multi-compartment, alternating bag according to the invention; Figures 12a, 12b show plan and sectional views of a multi-compartment, alternating bag, according to the invention; Figures 13a, 13b show plan and sectional views of a multi-compartment, alternating bag, according to the invention; Figures 14a, 14b, 14c show views in plant, in perspective and in section of a bag with multiple compartments, alternates, according to the invention; Figures 15a, 15b show plan and sectional views of a multi-compartment, alternating bag according to the invention; Figures 16a, 16b, 16c show plan, perspective and sectional views of a multi-compartment, alternating bag according to the invention; Figures 17a, 17b, 17c show an alternate method of wetting the sealing networks; Figures 18a, 18b show an alternate method of wetting the sealing networks; Figures 19a, 19b show an alternate method of wetting the sealing networks; Y Figures 20a and 20b show a method for inserting a solid object between the sealing networks and a bag thus formed.

In the following description of the exemplembodiments, the terms such as upper, lower, upper, lower, horizontal part are used with reference to the orientation of the modalities described in the drawings, and are not limiting of the scope of the modalities.

In the exemplembodiment of Figure 1, bags with multiple compartments are produced by forming two closed bag networks and joining the networks together, so that the bags in one network overlap in register with the bags in the other network, using two rotating formers 1, 3. Each former 1, 3 is similar and has a forming surface 3a that is circular, for example, a continuously rotating drum containing receptacles Ib, 3b. Additional details of the construction and operation of each former 1, 3, can be obtained by referring to the description in our previous application W02011 / 061628, to which the reader is directed, and only the features necessfor an understanding of the present invention are describe in the following description.

As shown in Figure 1, a plurality of open compartments or pouches are formed in the receptacles or recesses Ib in the circular forming surface of the former 1, by a first polymeric water-soluble network 5. The open pouches are filled via a feed of the product 7, and then closed by a second water-soluble polymer network 9, to form a first network of closed bags. A plurality of open compartments or pockets are formed in the receptacles or recesses 3b in the forming surface circular 3a of former 3 by a third water-soluble polymer network 11. Open pouches are filled via a feed of product 13, and then closed by a fourth water-soluble polymer network 15, to form a second network of closed pouches. The first and third polymer networks 5, 11, are base networks, and the second and fourth polymer networks 9, 15, are sealing networks for the open bags formed by the first and third base networks 5, 11. The networks of Seal 9, 15 are wetted via wetting rollers 17, 19 to provide adhesion to the first and third base networks 5, 11, to produce the first and second closed bag networks in the former 1, 3. The sealing rollers 21, 23 is provided for sealing the sealing networks 9, 15 for the first and third base networks 5, 11. The bags can be formed with vacuum or thermoforming. The bags can be held in the former 1, 3 by a vacuum applied through the receptacles in the former 1, 3, as described in document O 2011/061628.

An additional wetting roller 25 is provided to wet the outer (upper) surface of the sealing network 9 of the first network of closed bags in the former 1 to be wetted before being brought into contact with the external (upper) surface of the sealing network 15 of the second network of bags closed in the former 3 in 27.

The sealing network 9 can be wetted partially or completely in order to produce adhesiveness when the sealing networks 9, 15 of the two closed bag networks are brought together in 27. In 27, the sealing networks 9, 15 are sealed or sealed. they join together by a combination of pressure exerted between the two rotating formers 1, 3, and the adhesiveness of the external (upper) surface of the sealing network 9, produced by the action of the wetting roller 25. As a result, the first and second second closed bag networks are combined together with the closed bags in the first bag network aligned with, and in register with the bags closed in the second bag network, to produce pockets combined with multiple compartments of the bags in both networks. In an alternating arrangement (not shown), the outer (top) surface of the sealing network 15 of the second network of closed bags can be partially or completely wetted before being brought into contact with the external (upper) surface of the sealing network 9 of the first network of bags closed at 27, to provide adhesion to the second network of closed bags. Alternatively, the outer (top) surface of both polymeric sealing networks 9, 15 can be wetted before being brought into contact to provide adhesion between the combined bags of closed bags.

During the process by which pockets with multiple compartments are formed, the vacuum that holds Each bag in its respective receptacles is regulated and controlled. The vacuum is maintained, until the two bags have been joined together, at which point the vacuum in the receptacles of one of the formers (the donor former) is released, while the vacuum in the other former's receptacles (the former receiver) is maintained. In this way, the combined network of bags with multiple compartments formed by combining the bag networks in both trainers is retained by the receiving trainer. In this embodiment, the former 1 is the donor former and the former 3 is the receiving former, but this could be reversed with the former 3 with the donor former and the former 1 being the receiving former.

The bags with multiple compartments thus formed can be separated from the combined networks in a cutting station in the receiver former 3, where they are separated from each other by any suitable device 29, for example, by cutting the combined networks in the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction, with a blade or blade or laser, as will be familiar to those with experience in the art, and the vacuum holding the bags in the receptacles 3b is subsequently released, allowing the bags with multiple compartments attached to fall out of the receiver former 3 to a moving conveyor 31, which carries the bags with multiple compartments 33 to a packing operation. Once the bags with multiple compartments 33 have been separated from each other, the cut-out side of the net can be removed by vacuum or otherwise to a collection system for disposal or recycling. The transfer of the bags can be helped by applying fluid pressure through the holes in the base of the receptacles, to expel the bags from the receptacles. The fluid may be air or any other inert fluid to the water-soluble substrates of the bags.

The pressure exerted between the two rotating formers 1, 3 and / or the adhesiveness of the outer (top) surface of the polymeric sealing networks can be adjusted according to the required quality of the seal or joint between the two bags networks. If a seal or partial union is required in order to improve the dissolution speed of the combined bag, this can be obtained by means of an engraved dampening roller, so that the external (top) surface of the sealing networks is not cover completely but only partially covered, resulting in a seal or partial union between the sealing networks in 27.

The thickness and dissolution or other characteristics of the four polymer networks 5, 9, 11, 15 may be identical or different according to any one or more of the following list of characteristics given as a non-limiting example only: • the size of the compartments • the material contained within each compartment • the time of release of each compartment, so we mean the time for each compartment (to avoid doubt, the release time of each compartment does not necessarily need to be the same), have their content released in an aqueous medium in which is placed the bag with multiple compartments. • the time for complete dissolution of each compartment.

In Figure 1, the former 1 is shown above and biased towards one side of the former 3, allowing the open bag networks in both formers to fill and close at the top of the former 1, 3, thereby increasing the Available volume that can be filled without spillage, especially when a product that can flow in open bags is introduced. It will be understood, however, that other arrangements of the trainers may be employed, whereby, for example, the trainers may be placed one above and diverted to the other side, as well as the deviant arrangement shown in Figure 1. By the term deviated in this context, we mean any arrangement in which the sealing or joining of the combined bag takes place (with reference to Figure 1), between 9 o'clock and 11 o'clock, with the condition that sufficient space remains between 11 o'clock and 1 o'clock for a filling station to be placed.

In Figure 1, the diameter of the drums of each former 1, 3, is shown as identical. However, it will be understood that it is not essential that the diameters of the drum of each former be identical. Actually, there may be advantages to making the drum diameters different. For example, by making the diameter of the lower former larger than that of the upper former, a greater distance may be available around the circumference of the lower former, in which to adjust one or more filling stations and one or more cutting stations.

In the exemplary embodiment of Figure 2, the same principle as that described above for Figure 1 applies to a different configuration of rotating formers in a continuous manner. For convenience, similar reference numbers in the series 100 are used to indicate the same or similar parts.

In Figure 2, the first former 101 has a forming surface 101a that is circular, for example, a continuously rotating drum containing receptacles 101b, and the second former 103 has a forming surface 103a that is flat, typically horizontal, e.g., a continuously rotating endless chain or band, which contains receptacles 103b. Additional details of the construction and operation of each former 101, 103, can be obtained with reference to the description in our previous application W02011 / 061628, to which the reader is directed, and only the features necessary for an understanding of the present invention they are described in the following description.

As shown in Figure 2, a plurality of open compartments or pouches are formed in the receptacles 101b on the circular forming surface 101a of the former 101 by a water-soluble base network 105. The open pouches are filled via the feed of the product 107, and then closed by the second water-soluble network 109 to form a first network of closed bags. A plurality of open compartments or pouches are formed in the receptacles 103b in the horizontally forming surface 103a by a third water-soluble network 111. The open pouches are filled via a feed of the product 113 and then closed by a fourth network soluble in water. water 115 to form a second network of closed bags. The first and third networks 105, 111 are base networks and the second and fourth networks 109, 115 are networks of sealing for the open bags formed by the first and third base networks 105, 111. The sealing networks 109, 115 are wetted via the wetting rollers 117, 119 to provide adhesion to the first and third base networks 105, 111, to produce the first and second closed bag networks in the former 101, 103. Sealing rolls 121, 123 are provided to seal the sealing networks 109, 115 for the first and third base networks 105, 111. the first and third Second closed bag webs thus formed are held in place in the former 101, 103, by applying vacuum in the receptacles on the forming surfaces of the former, as described in WO 2011/061628.

An additional moistening roller 125 is provided to wet the outer (top) surface of the sealing net 109 of the first network of closed bags in the former 101 to be wetted before being brought into contact with the outer (top) surface of the sealing network 115 of the second network of closed bags in the former 103 at 127. The sealing polymer network 109 may be partially or completely wetted in order to produce adhesiveness when the sealing polymer networks 109, 115 of the two networks of Closed bags are held together at 127. At 127, sealing networks 109, 115 are sealed or joined together by a combination of pressure exerted between the two rotating formers 101, 103, and the adhesiveness of the outer (top) surface of the sealing net 109 produced by the action of the wetting roller 125. As a result, the first and second closed bag networks are combined together with the closed bags in the first network of bags aligned with, and in register with the bags closed in the second bag network, to produce the combined bags with multiple compartments 133 of the bags in both networks. In an alternating arrangement (not shown), the external (upper) surface of the sealing network 115 of the second network of closed bags can be partially or completely wetted before being brought into contact with the external (upper) surface of the network of sealing 109 of the first network of bags closed at 127, to provide adhesion to the second network of closed bags. Alternatively, the outer (top) surface of both sealing networks 109, 115 can be wetted before being put together, to provide adhesion between the combined bags of closed bags.

As previously described, the vacuum that holds the first network of bags in the donor former 101 is released during the sealing process, while maintaining the vacuum holding the second network of bags in the receiver former 103, way that the bags with multiple compartments formed by the combined networks they are retained in the receiver former 103, and can be separated from the combined networks by any combined device 129, for example, by cutting with a blade or knife or laser, as will be familiar to those with experience in the art, and to be freed from the receiver former. to a conveyor (not shown) or similar arrangement to supply the combined bags with multiple individual compartments 133 to a collection point (not shown), for a packing operation or other processing as required. In one modification, the former 101 can be the recipient former and the former 103 can be the donor former. In this arrangement, the vacuum holding the second network of bags in the donor former 103 can be released while maintaining the vacuum holding the first network of bags in the receiving former 101, so that the combined networks are retained in the former receiver 101 and can be separated and delivered to a collection point as previously described.

The pressure exerted between the two rotating formers 101, 103 and / or the adhesiveness of the outer (upper) surface of the sealing networks, can be adjusted according to the required quality of the seal or union between the two bags networks. If a seal or partial union is required in order to improve the rate of dissolution of the combined bag, this can be obtained by means of a engraved dampening roller, so that the outer (top) surface of the sealing networks is not completely covered, but only partially covered, resulting in a seal or partial union between the sealing networks at 127. In Figure 2, the circular forming surface 101a of the donor former 101, is placed above the horizontal forming surface 103a of the receiving former 103 and the first and second closed bags networks are brought together, so that the bags closed in the network in the former donor 101 are placed above and in register with the bags closed in the net in the receiver former 103. As a result, the first and second closed bags networks are combined together, to produce combined bags with multiple compartments of the bags in both networks .

The thicknesses and dissolution or other characteristics of the four polymer networks 105, 109, 111, 115 may be identical or different according to any one or more of the following list of characteristics, given by way of non-limiting example only: • the size of the compartments • the material contained within each compartment • the time of release of each compartment, by which we mean the time so that each compartment (to avoid doubt, the release time of each compartment does not necessarily have to be the same), has its contents released in an aqueous medium in which the bag with multiple compartments is placed. • the time for complete dissolution of each compartment.

In the exemplary embodiment of Figure 3, the same principle as that described above for Figures 1 and 2, applies to a different configuration of the rotating formers in a continuous manner. For convenience, similar reference numbers in the 200 series are used to indicate the same or similar parts.

In Figure 3, both the first former 201 and the second former 203 have forming surfaces 201a, 203a that are flat, typically horizontal, for example, a continuously rotating endless chain or band, containing receptacles 201, 203b. Additional details of the construction and operation of each trainer 201, 203, can be obtained with reference to the description in our previous application W02011 / 061628, to which the reader is directed, and only the features necessary for an understanding of the present invention. they are described in the following description.

As shown in Figure 3, a plurality of open compartments or bags is formed in the receptacles 201b on the circular forming surface 201a of the former 201 by the water-soluble base network 205. The open bags are filled via the feed of the product 207, and then closed by the second network 209 soluble in water to form a first network of closed bags. A plurality of open compartments or pouches is formed in the receptacles 203b on the horizontally forming surface 203a, by a third water-soluble network 211. The open pouches are filled via a feed of the product 213 and then closed by a fourth soluble network in water 215 to form a second network of closed bags. The first and third networks 205, 211 are base networks and the second and fourth networks 209, 215 are sealing networks for the open bags formed by the first and third base networks 205, 211. The sealing networks 209, 215 are they wet via the wetting rollers 217, 219 to provide adhesion to the first and third base networks 205, 211, to produce the first and second closed bag networks in the former 201, 203. Sealing rolls 221, 223 are provided for sealing the sealing networks 209, 215 for the first and third base networks 205, 211. The first and second closed bag networks thus formed, are held in place in the former 201, 203, by applying vacuum through the receptacles on the surfaces of training of the trainers, as described in WO 2011/061628.

An additional moistening roller 225 is provided to wet the outer (top) surface of the sealing net 209 of the first network of closed bags in the former 201 to be wetted before being brought into contact with the outer (top) surface of the sealing network 215 of the second network of bags closed in the former 203 at 227. The polymeric sealing network 209 may be partially or completely wetted in order to produce adhesiveness when the sealing polymer networks 209, 215 of the two networks of closed bags are worn together at 227. At 227, the sealing nets 209, 215 are sealed or joined together by a combination of pressure exerted between the two rotating formers 201, 203, and the adhesiveness of the outer (top) surface of the sealing net 209 produced by the action of the wetting roller 225. As a result, the first and second closed bag networks are combined together with the closed bags in the first bag network s aligned with, and in register with the bags closed in the second network of bags, to produce the bags combined with multiple compartments of the bags in both networks. In an alternating arrangement (not shown), the external (upper) surface of the sealing network 215 of the second network of closed bags, may be partially wetted or completely before being brought into contact with the outer (top) surface of the sealing network 209 of the first network of bags closed at 227, to provide adhesion to the second network of closed bags. Alternatively, the outer (top) surface of both sealing networks 209, 215 can be wetted before being put together, to provide adhesion between the combined bags of closed bags.

As previously described, the vacuum that holds the first network of bags in the donor former 201 is released during the sealing process, while maintaining the vacuum that holds the second network of bags in the receiver former 203, of so that the combined multi-compartment bags 233 thus formed by the combined networks are retained in the receiving former 203, and can be separated from the combined networks by any suitable device 229, eg, cut with a blade or knife or laser, as will be familiar to those with experience in the art, and be freed from the receiver former 203 toward a conveyor (not shown) or similar arrangement to supply the bags with multiple individual compartments to a collection point (not shown), for a packaging operation or other processing as required. In one modification, the former 201 may be the receiving former and the former 203 may be the former donor In this arrangement, the vacuum holding the second network of bags in the donor former 203 can be released while maintaining the vacuum holding the first network of bags in the receiving former 201, so that the combined networks are retained in the receiver formator 201 and can be separated and delivered to a collection point as previously described.

The pressure exerted between the two rotating formers 201, 203 and / or the adhesiveness of the outer (upper) surface of the sealing networks, can be adjusted according to the required quality of the seal or joint between the two bags networks. If a seal or partial union is required in order to improve the dissolution speed of the combined bag, this can be obtained by means of an engraved dampening roller, so that the external (top) surface of the sealing networks is not completely covered, but only partially covered, resulting in a seal or partial union between the sealing networks at 227. In Figure 3, the horizontal forming surface 201a of the donor former 201 is placed above the horizontally forming surface 203a of the receiver former 203 and the first and second closed bag networks are brought together, so that the bags closed in the net in the donor former 201 are placed above and in register with the bags closed in the net in the receiver former 203 .

As a result, the first and second closed bag networks are combined together, to produce pockets combined with multiple compartments of the bags in both networks.

The thicknesses and dissolution or other characteristics of the four polymer networks 205, 209, 211, 215 may be identical or different according to any one or more of the following list of characteristics, given by way of non-limiting example only: • the size of the compartments • the material contained within each compartment • the time of release of each compartment, by which we mean the time for each compartment (to avoid doubt, the release time of each compartment does not necessarily need to be the same), have their content released in an aqueous medium in which is placed the bag with multiple compartments. • the time for complete dissolution of each compartment.

In an exemplary embodiment, the sealing pressure exerted by the former 1, 3 (Figure 1) or 101, 103 (Figure 2) or 201, 203 (Figure 3) can be adjusted to obtain a desired seal strength between the two bags .

Different films or different bag designs may require different sealing pressures.

The machine preferably has a main frame to which the two formers 1, 3 (Figure 1) or 101, 103 (Figure 2) or 201, 203 (Figure 3) can be assembled in order to achieve the initial adjustment of the sealing pressure between the two bags. To achieve variable sealing pressures, the upper former is preferably mounted in a separate sub-frame that is movable in a vertical direction, in order to provide adjustment of the seal pressure. The weight of the sub-frame is preferably supported by springs, pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders, air springs or servo-controlled actuators or other similar means. Adjustment of the seal pressure can be achieved by tightening one or more adjusters, such as microtubes, against the force of the spring, allowing a precise and repeatable adjustment. The pressure of the seal can be controlled remotely by an operator, for example, by means of a reading in a main control panel. The adjusters, for example, microtornillos, can be operated, for example, by means of a small servo-drive or gradual-speed motors. The seal pressure exerted during the sealing process of the two bags can be verified, for example, by one or more load sensors on the sealing surface, and a digital signal Representative of the sealing pressure may be provided, for example, in the main control panel, allowing the operator to adjust the seal pressure by the aforementioned adjusters, for example, microtuncles.

When the subframe of the upper former is installed, the pressure on the sealing surface can be measured and used to calibrate the sensors of the pressure load for repeatability. Next, by means of a series of test runs with different combinations of settings, the sample bag assemblies can be produced and evaluated for the quality and integrity of the seal, establishing a baseline against which future production can be verified. The data sets of the series of test runs can then be used to determine the best combination of parameters for the production of the bag. In addition, the drum can be mounted so that an angle of inclination of the drum with respect to the chain can be microadjusted - to compensate (or in some cases, create) a misalignment for an effect of appearance.

The sealing of the two bags can be achieved by several different methods, depending on the design / appearance requirement of the bag. For example, an incomplete or partial circumferential seal (sealed by points) Between the two bags, it can be produced by different methods. Such a method may include placing a series of drops of liquid on the matching surface of one or the other of the bags. The volume of each drop can be measured accurately by using precision nozzles. The number of drops of liquid and the location and synchronization of the drops of liquid on the matching surface of one or the other bag, can be selected depending on the speed of the machine, and the pressure and temperature selected to make a seal with the optimum force . A dedicated screen can be provided for this task, to take into account the temperature, humidity and other parameters of the middle of the production room, where manufacturing takes place. In this way, the seal quality between the two bags can be repeated even when the environmental factors change, for example, due to a change in the middle of the production room or due to a relocation of the machine to an installation different.

The same nozzles can be used if a complete circumferential seal between the bags is desired. A complete circumferential seal can be provided by changing the pattern and volume of the drops. In the case where an integral seal is desired, by which we mean that the entire matching surface of one of the bags is wetted before the two bags are brought together to be sealed, a wetting roller can be provided for this purpose. However, the use of nozzles is preferable since it can be used to provide "dotted" or complete circumferential seals, while the use of a moistening roller requires a change in the adjustment of the machine and the consequent loss of productivity and flexibility .

A seal of Silicon or natural rubber placed around the open receptacles of one or both of the rotating formers can facilitate greater control of the sealing pressure.

An example of a bag with multiple compartments 151, formed by the machines shown in Figures 1, 2 and 3, is shown in Figures 4a and 4b. The materials contained within the compartments are not shown for convenience and clarity. In this embodiment, there are two compartments A and B, comprised within the combined bag, where the two closed bag networks are brought together and joined.

In Figure 5, a modification of the machine of Figure 2 is shown, whereby the machine is converted to form bags with multiple compartments by a different mode of operation. For convenience and clarity, similar reference numbers are used to indicate the same or similar parts and some parts of the machine shown in Figure 2 are omitted or described schematically.

As shown in Figure 5, a plurality of open compartments or pockets are formed in the receptacles 103b on the horizontally forming surface 103a of the former 103 by the water-soluble polymer network 111 as previously described for Figure 2. The sachets The open bags are filled via the feed of the product 113 but, unlike the mode of operation previously described for Figure 2, the open bags are closed by a network of already closed bags formed in the receptacles (not shown) on the circular forming surface 101a of the former 101. The open and closed bag webs are brought together at 127 and combined by wetting (not shown) the outer (top) surface of the sealing net 109 of the closed bag network, to provide adhesiveness to the 111 base network of open filled bags around the perimeter of the open bags, to close the open bags. Depending on the content of the open bags, the polymeric sealing network 109 may be wetted to provide selective adhesion to the polymeric network 111, by which term we mean complete or partial closure (for example, by means of a "dotted" seal). ) the open bags. As a result, the open bag network and the closed bag network are they combine together in register at 127, to produce bags with multiple compartments comprising three water-soluble substrates of the bags in both networks. An additional water-soluble polymer network 115 is then sealed or bonded to the combined networks at 135 to provide an additional compartment aligned with, and in register with the compartments formed at 127 by the bags in the combined networks, before separating. the bags with multiple compartments resulting from the combined networks, as previously described for Figure 2. A similar modification can be employed in the machine shown in Figure 3.

An example of a multi-compartment bag formed by the machine shown in Figure 5 is illustrated in Figures 6a and 6b. In this embodiment, there are three compartments A, B and C. The compartments A and B are produced by the overlapping bags when the two networks are brought together and joined at 127. The compartment C is produced when the polymeric network 115 joins the networks combined at 135. The compartment C formed by the polymer network 115 may be empty in order to improve the appearance of the bag with multiple compartments.

As will be appreciated, four water-soluble substrates are used to produce the multi-compartment bags formed by the mode of operation of the machines shown in Figures 1, 2 and 3, and by the mode of operation of the machine shown in Figure 5. The reconfiguration of the machine shown in Figure 2 to provide the mode of operation shown in Figure 5, is performed simply by moving the unwinding for the water-soluble polymer network 115 from its position upstream of the circular forming surface 101a in Figure 2 to a position below the circular forming surface 101a in Figure 5.

Additional examples of bags with multiple novel compartments that can be made using the machine and the method described herein are shown in Figures 7a, 7b to Figures 16a, 16b. Each bag has been made by combining two bags, each made of two water-soluble polymeric networks and therefore comprising four separate water-soluble substrates. The first and second pouches may contain a single compartment containing, for example, a powder formulation, a granular formulation, a liquid formulation, a gel formulation or a fused formulation. Alternatively, one or the other or both of the first and second pouches may comprise more than one compartment, each containing either a single formulation as described above, or a plurality of different formulations, eg, a first fused formulation able to become solid fast enough for a second formulation to be inserted therein without a mutual antagonism developing between the first and second formulations. These examples should not be taken as limiting, since many combinations of the principles illustrated in these examples can be made.

In Figures 7a, 7b, a first bag comprising a single compartment A is sealed to a second bag comprising a single compartment B, but immediately before sealing, a third compartment H is created between the first and second bags by insertion of component E which, for example, can be a solid object such as a tablet or a water-soluble bag or capsule that has been made out of line and inserted between the first and second bags by the machine of the present invention. Note that compartment H is empty, except for the presence of component E, and that the two bags are similar in profile, providing a symmetrical appearance to the combined bag comprising three compartments.

In Figures 8a, 8b, the construction of the first and second bags is similar to that illustrated in Figures 7a, 7b, but here, component E is inserted into compartment A of the first bag, and component F is inserted. in compartment B of the second bag, respectively, before each bag is sealed with a second network of water soluble film. Unlike the example illustrated in Figures 7a, 7b, a third compartment is no longer created between the two bags, when the first and second bags are sealed together, to form a combined bag. Note that the two bags are similar in profile, providing a symmetrical appearance to the combined bag comprising two compartments, with each compartment (A and B) containing two components.

In Figures 9a, 9b, the construction of the combined bag is similar to that illustrated in Figures 7a, 7b, but here, the first and second bags comprise two compartments each, instead of the single compartments shown in Figures 7a , 7b. The first bag comprises the compartments A and B, and the second bag comprises the compartments C and D. The component E is inserted between the first and second bags, creating an additional compartment H, according to the same method described above for the Figure 7a, 7b. It should be noted that in Figures 9a, 9b, the compartments B and D are perimetric compartments surrounding the central compartments A and C. Note that the two bags are again similar in profile, providing a symmetrical appearance to the combined bag which, in this example, comprises five compartments A, B, C, D and H.

In Figures 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, a modification of the bag illustrated in Figures 9a, 9b is shown, in which the central compartment of each bag has been removed, in order to allow the presence of component E it is clearly visible inside the compartment H through the windows W1 and W2 of the water-soluble film, which replace the central compartments A and C. In this example, the compartments B and D are perimetric compartments surrounding the central windows Wl, W2, through which the component E becomes visible. Note that the two bags are similar in profile, providing a symmetrical appearance to the combined bag which, in this example, comprises three compartments, B, D, and H.

By the term "perimetric compartment" in Figures 9a, 9b and Figures 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, we mean a compartment located around the perimeter of, and thus surrounding, preferably without interruption, a central compartment, shown in Figures 9b as the compartments A and C or a central window, shown in Figure 10b as the windows Wl and W2. The perimetric compartments could be described as annular, where they are circular in a plan view. Note that the two bags are again similar in profile, providing a symmetrical appearance to the combined bag comprising five compartments in the case of the combined bag shown in Figures 9a, 9b and three compartments in the case of the combined bag shown in Figures 10a, 10b, 10c, lOd.

In Figs. 11b, the construction of the combined bag is similar to that illustrated in Figs. 9a, 9b, but here the component E is not inserted between the bags, allowing the first and second bags to touch each other. Through the matching surfaces, term by which is meant the area of each bag in contact with the other during the sealing process. Note that the two bags are similar in profile, providing a symmetrical appearance to the combined bag which, in this example, comprises four compartments, A, B, C and D with compartments B and D, being peripheral compartments surrounding the compartments A and C central.

In Figures 12a, 12b, the construction of the first bag (the upper bag as seen in the drawing), is similar to that shown in Figure 11b with a perimetric compartment D surrounding the central compartment C but, in this example , the second bag (the lower bag as seen in the drawing), is no longer a mirror image of the first bag. The second bag comprises a single compartment A extending to the perimeter seal. Note that the two bags are different in profile, providing an asymmetrical appearance to the combined bag comprising three compartments, A, C and D.

In Figures 13a, 13b, the construction of the first bag (the upper bag as seen in the drawing), is again similar to that shown in Figure 11b, with a perimetric compartment D surrounding the central compartment C but, in In this example, the second bag (the lower bag as seen in the drawing), again is no longer a mirror image of the first bag. The second bag comprises a single perimetric compartment B surrounding a central window W, allowing visible access to compartment C of the first bag. Note that the two bags are different in profile, providing an asymmetrical appearance to the combined bag, which comprises three compartments B, C and D.

In Figures 7a, 7b to Figures 13a, 13b, the first and second bags are generally circular or elliptical in a plan view. This is not essential.

In Figures 14a, 14b, 14c, the first and second bags are similar to those shown in Figures 12a, 12b, but in this example, the bags are rectangular in plan view, allowing each of the three compartments A , C and D adopt a rectangular shape. This has the benefit that each compartment fills a larger percentage of the surface area of the available network, thereby reducing the area of the flange that surrounds compartments A and C, and avoiding the need to eliminate waste from the flange area. Note that the two bags are different in profile, providing an asymmetrical appearance to the combined bag, which comprises three compartments, A, C and D.

In Figures 15a, 15b, the first and second bags are similar to those shown in Figures 9a, 9b but, in this example, the bags are triangular in a plan view. Note that the two bags are similar in profile, providing a symmetrical appearance to the combined bag, which comprises four compartments, A, B, C and D.

Other forms of bags can be used. For example, the perimetric compartments comprising two halves of circles joined by straight lines, thus forming a "race track" in the plan view.

In Figures 9a, 9b to Figures 15a, 15b, the perimetric compartments comprise a single compartment completely surrounding a central compartment or a window. This is not essential.

In Figures 16a, 16b, 16c, the construction of the second bag is similar to that shown in Figures 8a, 8b but, in this example, the perimeter compartment of the first bag is divided into two semi-perimetric compartments, B and D. In Figures 16a, 16b, 16c, we show an example where compartments B and D are equal in size, although this is not necessary, since the two compartments B and D may be of unequal size. Note that the two bags are different in profile, providing an asymmetrical appearance to the combined bag comprising four compartments, A, B, C and D.

Other configurations of perimetric compartments may be employed. For example, the unique perimeter compartments shown in Figures 9a, 9b through Figures 15a, 15b can be divided into two or more partially perimeter compartments in the same or different manner.

The following table provides a summary of the characteristics of the bags described in this document.

Referring now to Figures 17a, 17b, 17c, Figures 18a, 18b and Figures 19a, 19b, different methods are illustrated for wetting the outer (top) surface of the sealing net of sealed bags in a former, prior to sealing or bonding to the sealing network of the sealed bags in the other former, to produce combined water soluble bags containing two or more compartments. These illustrations are in no way limiting the wetting methods of the external (upper) surface of the sealing network, to obtain the desired adhesiveness at the point where the nets are brought together with the bags in register.

In Figures 17a, 17b, 17c, wetting is effected by means of nozzles 53. The nozzles 53 can be configured to apply drops of water 53a to the external (upper) surface of the sealing network 54 of the sealed pouches in a former . The nozzles 53 can be calibrated to apply a controlled amount of water or other aqueous medium in a controlled pattern. The nozzles 53 can apply drops of water to that part of the outer surface surrounding the sealed bags. By this means, the risk of softening the part of the sealing network 54 comprising part of the sealed bags is reduced. If that part of the sealing network 54 comprising part of the sealed bags is over-wetted, there could be the risk of partial dissolution, leading to rupture of the bag and partial or complete release of the contents. The wet seal network 54 is sealed to the sealing network 55 from the sealed bags in the other former at the sealing point 56, to form the combined water soluble pouches 57.

The nozzles 53 can be adjusted to alter the separation of the water droplets. In this way, the seal between the sealing networks 54, 55 may be complete or partial. In use, a partial seal allows the entry of an aqueous medium between the two sealing networks 54, 55 of the combined bag 57, to accelerate the rate of dissolution of the combined bag in the aqueous medium.

In Figures 18a, 18b, wetting is effected by means of a servo-controlled roller 58. The roller 58 can be configured to apply a controlled amount of water or other aqueous medium to the external (upper) surface of the sealing network 55 in a controlled pattern. The roller 58 can apply water to only a part of the outer surface surrounding the sealed bags. By this means, the risk of softening the part of the sealing network 55 that It comprises part of the sealed bags is reduced. If that part of the sealing network 55 comprising part of the sealed bags is over-wetted, there could be the risk of partial dissolution, leading to the breaking of the bag and the partial or complete release of the contents. The degree of adhesiveness can be controlled by moving the roller 58 closer, or further away from the outer (upper) surface of the sealing network 55 of the sealed bags held in the former by a vacuum contained therein.

In Figures 19a, 19b, wetting is effected by means of a plate 59. The plate 59 is provided with openings 60 for applying a controlled amount of water or other aqueous medium from a supply 61 to the external (upper) surface of the sealing network 54 in a controlled pattern. The plate 59 can apply water to only that part of the outer surface surrounding the sealed bags. Hereby, the risk of softening that part of the sealing network 54 comprising part of the sealed bags is reduced. If that part of the sealing network 54 comprising part of the sealed bags is over-wetted, there could be the risk of partial dissolution, which leads to the rupture of the bag and the partial or complete release of the contents. The degree of adhesiveness can be controlled by moving the plate 59 up and down, as the sealing network 54 moves continuously towards the sealing point 56, thus ensuring so much that the desired level of adhesiveness is obtained.

Referring now to Figures 20a, 20b, there is shown a method and device for inserting a solid object 66, such as a tablet between the sealing networks 54, 55 of the bags held by vacuum in the former, before sealing or joining together the nets, thereby forming a compartment 67 containing the solid object 66 between the sealing networks 54, 55. In the Figure 20a, a tablet 66 is placed in the sealing network 54 by a tablet feeder 68, which allows the tablet 66 to be subsequently sealed in the compartment 67 formed between the two sealing networks 54, 55 in the combined bag 57. combined bag 57 is shown in Figure 20b.

An exemplary embodiment provides a machine and method for forming bags with multiple compartments, in which two bags can be formed simultaneously in separate adjacent formers, and will bring together in register, so that the bags can be joined to form a combined bag. The bags can be held in the formers by vacuum until the bags are joined, after which the vacuum that holds one of the bags in its former is released, while maintaining the vacuum that holds the other bag in its former, so that the combined bags are held in the former by empty, until the vacuum is released.

Although the exemplary embodiments have been described, it will be understood that the invention is not limited thereto, and that modifications may be made within the scope of the invention, as defined in the claims.

Claims

1. A machine with continuous movement to produce water-soluble pouches, comprising two or more compartments of four water-soluble polymer networks, wherein two pouches are formed, filled and sealed in adjacent, separate donor and recipient formers, each bag being formed two water-soluble polymer networks, and wherein two such bags are held by vacuum in their formers, until they are joined together in register to form a combined bag, after which the vacuum in the donor former is removed, releasing its bag to the receiver former, and the combined bag still held by vacuum in the receiver former, is separated from the combined network.

2. The machine according to claim 1, wherein the machine is configured to provide a partial perimetric seal between the sealing networks of the two bags.

3. The machine according to claim 1, wherein the machine is configured to provide a complete perimetric seal between the sealing networks of the two bags.

4. The machine according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the machine is configured to place a solid article between the networks of sealing the two bags before the sealing networks are sealed together, thus creating a compartment between the sealing networks.

5. The machine according to claim 4, wherein the machine is configured so that the solid article is visible through at least one window within both networks of either or both of the bags.

6. The machine according to any preceding claim, wherein the machine is configured to pierce a base network of at least one of the bags.

7. The machine according to claim 6, wherein the machine is configured to drill the base network before a forming operation.

8. The machine according to claim 6, wherein the machine is configured to drill the base network during a forming operation.

9. The machine according to claim 6, wherein the machine is configured to drill the base network after a forming operation.

10. A method for producing water-soluble bags, comprising two or more compartments by forming, filling and sealing two bags in adjacent, separate formers, each of two water-soluble polymer networks, and attaching two such bags together for forming a combined bag comprising two or more compartments.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein a machine according to claim 1 is used.

12. The method according to claim 10 or 11, wherein one or more compartments contain a combination of at least two components comprising a granular or powdery product, a thickened liquid or a gel, and a solid three-dimensional article, so that all components retain their identity, and none of the components becomes mutually antagonistic.

13. The method according to any of claims 10 to 12, wherein a partial perimetric seal is formed between the sealing nets of the two bags.

14. The method according to any of claims 10 to 12, wherein a complete perimetric seal is formed between the sealing nets of the two bags.

15. The method according to claim 11 or claim 12, wherein a solid component is inserted between the sealing nets of the two bags, before the two bags are sealed or joined together, thereby creating a compartment between the two bags. sealing networks.

16. The method in accordance with the claim 15, wherein the solid component is visible through at least one window within both networks of either or both of the bags.

17. The method according to any of claims 10 to 16, wherein a base network of at least one of the bags is punched before, during or after the forming operation.

18. The method according to any of claims 11 to 16, which includes forming a first network of filled and sealed bags in a rotating donor former, forming a second network of filled and sealed bags in an adjacent rotating receiver former, supporting both bags in your trainers by vacuum, bring the first and second bag networks together in register, join the bags in the first network to the bags in the second network to produce a combined network of bags combined, remove the vacuum that holds the bags in the trainer donor, to release the combined network of combined bags from the donor former, while the combined network of combined bags is still held by vacuum in the receiving former, separating the combined bags from the combined net and subsequently removing the vacuum holding the combined bags separated in the receiving trainer.

19. The method in accordance with the claim 18, wherein a sealing pressure between the sealing films of the bags held by vacuum in the donor and receiver formers is adjustable.

20. A water soluble pouch comprising two or more compartments made by the method according to any of claims 11 to 19.

21. The water soluble bag according to claim 20, wherein, in use, the contents of each compartment are released in the aqueous medium at substantially the same time.

22. The water-soluble bag according to claim 20, wherein, in use, the contents of each compartment are released in the aqueous medium at different times.