DE102019128874A1 - Packaging device and method for producing packaging units - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a packaging device (1) and a method for producing packaging units (35). The packaging units (35) comprise at least one article (30), in particular at least one beverage can (31), on which at least one packaging blank (20) that is at least regionally flat is arranged. The packaging blank (20) has at least one passage opening (23) for the at least one article (30) in the flat area. The packaging device (1) comprises at least one feed device (2) for the at least one article (30) or for combinations (40) of at least two articles (30); a pretreatment module (9) for preparing the packaging blank (20) for application to the at least one article (30) and a first packaging module (7) for applying and fixing the packaging blank (20) to the at least one article (30). The pretreatment module (9) comprises at least one device which is designed to apply a resistance force in an edge region (24) of the passage openings (23) of the packaging blank (20) during the subsequent application of the packaging blank (20) to the at least one article (30) to reduce.

Description

The present invention relates to a packaging device and a method for producing packaging units according to the features of the independent claims.

State of the art

There are different types of packaging for processing, compiling, grouping and packaging items such as beverage containers. A variant that is frequently used consists, for example, in combining several articles or containers of the same type to form portable, relatively manageable container units or packaging units. For this purpose, too, various possibilities are known for combining individual articles or containers into larger containers. For example, beverage containers are usually combined and packaged using shrink films to form packs of four, six or more containers. The production of containers is usually unavoidable, as they represent the most common variant of packaging units for beverage containers or bottles made of PET plastic. The containers are partly combined again for transport and / or put together in layers and palletized.

In the manufacture of known types of packs, specific manufacturing steps are required in order to be able to process the shrink films usually used for the packs. These production steps require a relatively high amount of energy, not least because of the shrinking process of the film under the action of heat. In addition, the film used causes costs for production, provision, handling and later disposal, since it is no longer needed after the article or container has been sold and unpacked. The machine equipment for providing the so-called film wrapping modules and other handling stations also causes high investment costs. Finally, the provision of the so-called shrink tunnel, in which the film wrapped around the container is shrunk around the container by means of the application of hot air, requires a relatively high investment of capital.

One variant in which the use of shrink film can be dispensed with are so-called strapping containers. The containers are connected to one another by means of so-called straps and combined to form a bundle. Containers, articles or bottles are grouped into formations in continuously or intermittently working strapping machines and then strapped with one or more straps with the help of strapping units. Typical formations can be, for example, 1x2 arrangements (two containers in a row), 2x2 arrangements (four containers in a square or in a diamond formation), 3x2, 4x3 or in principle also variable nxm arrangements.

The use of so-called top cardboard packaging is also known, for example, in order to combine several bottles via their neck areas. A packaging machine for placing such top cardboard packaging is in the patent EP 1075419 B1 described. Here, the articles or containers are arranged in a box and the cardboard packaging is placed from above onto the at least one article arranged in the box. In particular, a plurality of articles is arranged in the box, and by placing a smaller number of upper gripping cardboard packagings on top, sub-groups are formed which each combine a part of the articles arranged in the box.

A gripping cardboard packaging has an arrangement and number of passage openings which correspond to the arrangement and number of the articles or containers to be combined. The diameter of the passage openings is usually slightly smaller than a maximum diameter of the article in an upper area. The cardboard packaging is placed on the article and pressed on, so that a defined upper area of the article is pressed through the openings. In particular, an upper area with a maximum diameter is pushed through the passage openings and the edge areas of the passage openings are brought into engagement with the articles below this maximum diameter, so that the cardboard packaging is securely and firmly attached to the articles. In order to fix the cardboard packaging to the articles in this way, in particular to push the articles through the passage openings, relatively high application forces are necessary. Accordingly, the articles must offer a suitable resistance to this application force so that the articles are not damaged when the cardboard packaging is applied.

description

The object of the invention is to eliminate the disadvantages of the prior art of known devices.

The above object is achieved by a packaging device and a method for producing packaging units which comprise the features in the independent patent claims. Further advantageous refinements are described by the subclaims.

The method for the production of packaging units carried out by means of a packaging device described below is especially designed to reduce the application force that is necessary to fix a cardboard box to an article group. The packaging units produced in this way comprise at least one article or container on which at least one at least regionally planar packaging blank is arranged, the packaging blank having at least one passage opening for the at least one article in the planar region.

The at least one article or container is preferably a beverage container, in particular a bottle made of PET or another suitable plastic. The articles or containers can preferably also be formed by cans made of plastic and / or aluminum or another metal or the like. However, the packaging device and the method are also suitable for arranging and fixing a corresponding packaging blank to other suitable articles or containers.

A packaging device for producing such packaging units comprises at least one feed device for the at least one article) or for combinations of at least two articles, a pretreatment module for preparing the packaging blank for application to the at least one article and a first packaging module for applying and fixing the packaging blank to the at least one article. It is provided here that the pretreatment module comprises at least one device which is designed to reduce a resistance force in an edge region of the at least one passage opening of the packaging blank during the subsequent application of the packaging blank to the at least one article.

The packaging units produced according to a particularly preferred embodiment consist of at least two articles or containers which are combined by at least one first secondary packaging means in the form of a flat packaging blank. All of the features described below in relation to such packaging units are to be applied analogously or in a correspondingly adapted manner to packaging units which comprise only one article and a packaging blank arranged on it. In this case, it is in particular a packaging blank designed as a carrying handle blank, which provides a carrying handle.

Furthermore, the articles or containers of the packaging units can additionally be combined by at least one second secondary packaging means. For example, the second secondary packaging means is formed by at least one band-like or strip-like, closed strapping which is stretched horizontally around an outside of the article or container and which is optionally firmly fixed at a contact point with at least one of the articles. Thus, the strapping can be fixed at the contact point in particular by means of a material connection in the form of at least one welded connection. However, such a contact point of the strapping on one of the outer surfaces of the articles is by no means mandatory, since the strapping can already adhere firmly to the outer surfaces of the strapped articles due to the applied strapping tension. Alternatively, the articles can also be fixed to one another by means of adhesive connections. The line-like or point-like or areal delimited adhesive connections are sensibly located on contact surfaces or contact edges of the articles standing next to one another, so that overall only relatively small adhesive surfaces can ensure a firm connection of the articles to one another. Another alternative embodiment can provide that the articles combined with a packaging blank are additionally arranged on a so-called tray and / or are wrapped in a shrink film. The arrangement of the second secondary packaging means can take place in the case of at least one strapping when the articles are arranged on a tray before or at the same time or after application of the packaging blank. The application of an adhesive for the formation of adhesive connections is preferably carried out before or in connection with the assembly of the articles into an article group before the application of the packaging blank, while the application of a shrink film is preferably carried out after the application of the packaging blank, so that the shrink film in particular on the with The article summarized on the packaging blank is shrunk on.

The at least regionally planar packaging blank has at least two passage openings for the at least two articles in the planar region. Furthermore, the at least regionally planar packaging blank can have handle openings through which the user can insert his fingers in order to be able to lift and transport the entire packaging unit or the like.

The packaging blank is, in particular, what is known as an upper cardboard packaging. The packaging blank is preferably made of a cardboard material, a Plastic material, a cardboard-plastic composite material or the like.

After the packaging blank has been determined, a defined upper area of the article is preferably located above the packaging blank, while a defined lower area of the article is arranged below the packaging blank.

According to one embodiment, the through openings of the packaging blank have suitable fixing devices, which can be formed, for example, by fixing tabs. For example, the fixing tabs are formed by incisions or the like extending radially from the openings. After the packaging blank has been arranged and fastened to the articles, the packaging blank is in engagement with the articles in such a way that it is essentially fixed in place on the articles and the articles can no longer make any significant relative movements or changes in position relative to one another or to the packaging blank. Thus, the packaging blank can only be removed again from the articles of the article group with increased expenditure of force with an upward force component, the packaging blank usually being at least partially destroyed.

The packaging device comprises at least one feed device via which the at least two articles are fed. The articles are preferably already put together in a suitable number and arrangement as article groups in advance and these article groups are fed to a packaging module via the at least one feed device. In the packaging module, a packaging blank is applied to the article group and specified. For this purpose, a packaging blank is removed from a magazine and prepared in a pretreatment module for application to the at least two articles of the article group. For this purpose, the pretreatment module comprises at least one device which is designed to reduce a resistance force in an edge region of the passage openings of the packaging blank during the subsequent application of the packaging blank to the at least two articles.

According to a first embodiment, the device of the pretreatment module comprises at least one expansion die, but preferably a plurality of expansion dies which is / are suitable for expanding and / or widening the edge regions of the at least one passage opening. In this case, the pretreatment increases an average diameter of the at least one passage opening at least slightly. As a result, an upper region of the article with a maximum diameter, which maximum diameter is preferably at least slightly larger than an average diameter of the passage openings, can be passed through the respective passage opening more easily. In particular, the application force with which the packaging blank is pressed onto the article so that the upper area of the article with a maximum diameter is arranged above the packaging blank and the lower area of the article is arranged below the packaging blank, compared to an application force that would be necessary to Specifying a packaging cut without pretreatment on the articles, significantly reduced. Thus, the risk of the articles being damaged when the packaging blank is applied is reduced compared to conventional packaging devices and methods. In this case, even articles can be used that have a smaller wall thickness without being damaged when the packaging blank is applied.

According to one embodiment, the at least one expansion die is detachably arranged in the pretreatment module. For example, the expansion dies are formed by differently designed molded parts. The molded parts can essentially have the shape of the article to which the respective packaging blank is to be applied. The expansion dies are formed, for example, from a rigid solid material or are at least more stable than the respective articles. Depending on the article and the corresponding packaging blanks, the appropriate expansion dies are arranged in the corresponding number and arrangement in the pretreatment module. The packaging blank is placed on the expansion matrices and pressed down so that the expansion matrices come into engagement in areas through the passage openings and in particular with the edge areas of the passage openings. This causes an expansion or other modification of the edge regions of the passage openings and in particular the material in the edge regions of the passage openings is weakened. A mean diameter of the passage openings is preferably increased by the expansion dies.

According to one embodiment, the expansion dies are conical or frustoconical, the cone tip or the cone side with the smaller cross-sectional area pointing upwards. In this case, the expansion dies are suitable for different article sizes. Depending on the mean diameter of the passage openings, the packaging blank is pressed down correspondingly far in order to widen the passage openings in the desired manner.

The arrangement and number of expansion dies corresponds in particular to the arrangement and number of passage openings in the packaging blank. In the case of a pretreatment module with detachably arranged expansion dies, a simple, quick and inexpensive conversion to the new product is possible when changing products.

According to one embodiment of the invention, a packaging blank is removed from a magazine by a suitable gripping tool and transferred to the pretreatment module and there exposed and in particular pressed onto the device with the expansion dies, so that the expansion dies at least partially pass through the openings of the packaging blank. The packaging blanks are preferably stacked lying on top of one another in the magazine. Alternatively, an upright arrangement of the packaging blanks can be provided. In this case, the gripping tool is preferably designed to transfer the packaging blank, which is located in a vertical and inclined arrangement, into a horizontal orientation before it is pressed onto the expansion dies. Alternatively, the arrangement of the expansion dies can be designed in such a way that it is possible to press on a packaging blank that is oriented vertically or diagonally. The packaging blank, which has been pretreated by the stretching tools, is then conveyed to the packaging module by the gripping tool and applied to an assembly of articles within the packaging module and applied and fixed by pressing on it. A gripping tool can perform both transport steps. Alternatively, a first gripping tool can be provided for removing a packaging blank from the magazine and a second gripping tool for removing and transporting the pretreated packaging blank from the pretreatment module.

According to one embodiment, the passage openings are widened due to the packaging blank being pressed onto expansion tools with a diameter that widens downwards, as a result of which the material in the edge area of the passage openings is partially compressed and / or material of the edge areas is partially pushed upwards out of the plane of the passage openings .

For example, it can be provided that radial incisions extend from the passage openings within the edge regions. The areas between the radial incisions form the so-called fixing devices or fixing tabs. When the packaging blank is pressed onto the expansion tools, the fixing tabs are pressed upwards, so that the mean diameter of the passage openings is increased after the packaging blank has been removed from the pretreatment module.

According to a further embodiment it can be provided that radial perforations extend from the passage openings within the edge regions. When the packaging blank is pressed onto the stretching tools, the packaging blank tears open at the perforations and fixing tabs are formed in the edge regions delimiting the passage openings, which are pressed upwards in an analogous manner.

The expansion tools with a diameter that widens downwards have the effect, in particular, that the edge areas are bent against the direction of application within the packaging module. This reduces the application force for applying the packaging blank to the article. In addition, the packaging blank is centered and / or precisely positioned on the stretching tools and can thus be removed from the pretreatment module in a precisely positioned manner and fed to the packaging module.

According to a further embodiment, the device of the pretreatment module comprises at least one cutting device and / or perforation device. By making cuts or perforations in the edge area of the passage openings, the material of the packaging blank becomes more flexible in the edge areas, whereby a resistance force when pressed onto the article is reduced. In particular, provision can be made to combine the pretreatment by means of a cutting device and / or perforation device and the pretreatment by means of suitable expansion dies, with the cutting device and / or perforation device in particular making incisions and / or micro-perforations and / or perforations into the packaging blanks radially from the passage openings be introduced.

According to a further embodiment, the device of the pretreatment module comprises at least one humidifying device, in particular a device with which the edge areas which delimit the passage openings can be humidified. The edge areas of packaging blanks made of cardboard material are preferably treated with a fluid, the remaining areas of the packaging blank not being exposed to the fluid. For example, the humidifying device is a steaming device and water vapor is applied to the corresponding edge areas of the packaging blank. When moistened, the cardboard material softens a little in these areas and becomes more easily deformable. This facilitates the subsequent application of the packaging blank pretreated in this way to the articles of the article group. After the packaging blank has dried, it regains its original rigid material properties in the corresponding areas. One embodiment can provide an additional suitable drying device which supports the drying of the packaging blank fixed on the articles, for example by targeted inflation of warm air.

According to a further embodiment, the device of the pretreatment module comprises at least one heating device with which, in particular, edge regions which delimit the passage openings can be heated. In particular, the edge areas of the passage openings of packaging blanks made of a thermoplastic material are heated, the remaining areas of the packaging blank not being heated. The targeted heating makes the plastic material softer in the correspondingly treated areas and thus more easily deformable. This facilitates the subsequent application of the packaging blank pretreated in this way to the articles of the article group. After the packaging blank has cooled down, it regains its original rigid material properties. One embodiment can provide an additional suitable cooling device which supports the cooling of the packaging blank fixed on the articles, for example by targeted inflation of cold air.

According to a further embodiment it can be provided that the preparation of the packaging blanks can take place before they are made available in a magazine of the packaging device, which is in particular assigned to the packaging module of the packaging device. For example, appropriately prepared packaging blanks in which the fixing tabs have already been pre-broken or the like can be obtained from a supplier. The packaging blanks prepared by the supplier are made available in a magazine of the packaging device for the packaging module. The prepared packaging blanks are removed from the magazine and applied to the articles of the article group in the manner described above. Alternatively, it can be provided that a corresponding pretreatment module is assigned to the magazine and that the preparation of the packaging blanks, in which the resistance force is reduced in an edge region of the through openings of the packaging blanks, takes place within the packaging device before the prepared packaging blanks are arranged in a magazine and for the The following application can be provided on the articles.

By pretreating the packaging blanks, the application force for fixing the packaging blanks to the article groups can be reduced. This reduces the risk of damage to the article, in particular beverage cans. It is thus also possible, with the packaging device according to the invention and the method according to the invention, to combine articles with a packaging blank into packaging units which have a smaller wall thickness and are therefore more sensitive to compressive forces. This allows material to be saved, which means that the articles can be produced more cost-effectively. In addition, articles for which the primary packaging, for example a bottle or can, can be made thinner, results in less packaging waste that has to be disposed of.

It should be expressly mentioned at this point that all aspects and design variants that have been explained in connection with the device according to the invention relate to or can be partial aspects of the method according to the invention in the same way. If, therefore, at one point in the description or in the definition of claims for the device according to the invention, certain aspects and / or interrelationships and / or effects are mentioned, this applies equally to the method according to the invention. Conversely, the same applies, so that all aspects and design variants that have been explained in connection with the method according to the invention relate to or can be partial aspects of the device according to the invention in the same way. If, therefore, at one point in the description or in the definition of claims for the method according to the invention, certain aspects and / or interrelationships and / or effects are mentioned, this applies equally to the device according to the invention.

Figure list

• 1 zeigt eine erste Ausführungsform eines Verpackungszuschnitts.
• 2 zeigt einen Artikel.
• 3A und 3B zeigen schematisch das Applizieren eines Verpackungszuschnitts an einer Zusammenstellung von Artikeln gemäß 2.
• 4 zeigt einen schematischen Ablauf eines erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens zur Herstellung von Verpackungseinheiten.
• 5 zeigt eine schematische Darstellung einer ersten Ausführungsform einer Verpackungsvorrichtung zur Herstellung von Verpackungseinheiten von oben.
• 6 zeigt eine seitliche Darstellung einer Verpackungsvorrichtung gemäß 5.
• 7 zeigt eine erste Ausführungsform eines Vorbehandlungsmoduls.
• 8 zeigt eine zweite Ausführungsform eines Vorbehandlungsmoduls.
• 9A bis 9C zeigt eine erste Ausführungsform eines Verpackungszuschnitts und die entsprechende Vorbehandlung und Applikation eines solchen Verpackungszuschnitts an einer Artikelgruppe.
• 10a und 10B zeigen einen Teilbereich des Verpackungszuschnitts gemäß 9A und 9B in Querschnittsdarstellung.
• 11A bis 11C zeigen eine zweite Ausführungsform eines Verpackungszuschnitts und die entsprechende Vorbehandlung und Applikation eines solchen Verpackungszuschnitts an einer Artikelgruppe.
• 12A bis 12D zeigen eine dritte Ausführungsform eines Verpackungszuschnitts und die entsprechende Vorbehandlung und Applikation eines solchen Verpackungszuschnitts an einer Artikelgruppe.
• 13 zeigt einen schematischen Ablauf einer weiteren Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens zur Herstellung von Verpackungseinheiten.
• 14A und 14B zeigen vierte Ausführungsformen eines Verpackungszuschnitts.
• 15 zeigt eine seitliche Darstellung einer Verpackungseinheit mit einem Verpackungszuschnitt gemäß 14A oder 14B.
• 16 zeigt eine seitliche Darstellung einer Verpackungsvorrichtung zum Anbringen eines Tragegriffzuschnitts gemäß 14A oder 14B. Für gleiche oder gleich wirkende Elemente der Erfindung werden identische Bezugszeichen verwendet. Ferner werden der Übersicht halber nur Bezugszeichen in den einzelnen Figuren dargestellt, die für die Beschreibung der jeweiligen Figur erforderlich sind. Die dargestellten Ausführungsformen stellen lediglich Beispiele dar, wie die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung oder das erfindungsgemäße Verfahren ausgestaltet sein können und stellen keine abschließende Begrenzung dar.

In the following, exemplary embodiments are intended to explain the invention and its advantages in more detail with reference to the accompanying figures. The proportions of the individual elements to one another in the figures do not always correspond to the real proportions, since some forms are simplified and other forms are shown enlarged in relation to other elements for better illustration.

• 1 shows a first embodiment of a packaging blank.
• 2 shows an article.
• 3A and 3B show schematically the application of a packaging blank to an assembly of articles according to FIG 2 .
• 4th shows a schematic sequence of a method according to the invention for producing packaging units.
• 5 shows a schematic representation of a first embodiment of a packaging device for producing packaging units from above.
• 6th shows a side view of a packaging device according to FIG 5 .
• 7th shows a first embodiment of a pretreatment module.
• 8th shows a second embodiment of a pretreatment module.
• 9A to 9C shows a first embodiment of a packaging blank and the corresponding pretreatment and application of such a packaging blank to an article group.
• 10a and 10B show a part of the packaging blank according to FIG 9A and 9B in cross-section.
• 11A to 11C show a second embodiment of a packaging blank and the corresponding pretreatment and application of such a packaging blank to an article group.
• 12A to 12D show a third embodiment of a packaging blank and the corresponding pretreatment and application of such a packaging blank to an article group.
• 13th shows a schematic sequence of a further embodiment of a method according to the invention for producing packaging units.
• 14A and 14B show fourth embodiments of a packaging blank.
• 15th shows a side view of a packaging unit with a packaging blank according to FIG 14A or 14B .
• 16 shows a side view of a packaging device for attaching a handle blank according to FIG 14A or 14B . Identical reference symbols are used for identical or identically acting elements of the invention. Furthermore, for the sake of clarity, only reference symbols are shown in the individual figures which are necessary for the description of the respective figure. The illustrated embodiments merely represent examples of how the device according to the invention or the method according to the invention can be designed and do not represent a final limitation.

1 shows a first embodiment of a packaging blank 20th and 2 shows an article 30th , which with at least one other article 30th , in particular identical by a packaging blank 20th to a packaging unit 35 or container 36 can be summarized. 3A and 3B show schematically the application of a packaging blank 20th in a compilation of articles 30th according to 2 .

It is preferably the articles 30th around beverage containers in the form of bottles or cans 31 made of plastic and / or aluminum or another metal or the like. However, the packaging device and the method are also suitable for a corresponding packaging blank 20th to other suitable articles 30th to be arranged and to be determined by this.

The articles 30th preferably have a widened area in the upper area, on which the packaging blank 20th is determined. In particular, point the cans 31 a lid edge 32 on. Below this edge of the lid 32 assign the cans 31 at least a slight taper 33 on. In particular, it concerns the cans 31 to beverage cans conventionally known from the prior art. It is preferably provided that the packaging blank 20th after applying to the set of at least two cans 31 below the so-called lid edge 32 in the area of rejuvenation 33 on the cans 31 is fixed. This means that after the packaging blank has been applied 20th on the cans 31 a partial area, in particular the can lid with the closure 34 above the packaging blank 20th while the rest of the range of cans 31 below the packaging blank 20th extends. In particular, it is provided that the packaging blank 20th in this position through the cans 31 is fixed and vice versa.

Is it with the articles 30th For example, around bottles made of PET or another suitable plastic material with a screw cap, the bottle has a widened area below the screw cap in the form of the so-called neck ring. Below the neck ring, the diameter of the bottle is again designed to be smaller in some areas and, proceeding therefrom, widens downwards. In particular, it is provided that the packaging blank 20th is fixed after application to an assembly of bottles below the so-called neck ring of the closure area of the bottles. Thus, after the packaging blank has been applied to the bottles, the closure area and the neck ring of the bottles are located above the packaging blank, while the remaining area of the bottles extends below the packaging blank.

The packaging cut 20th is, for example, essentially flat and has passage openings 23 for the article 30th on. The packaging cut 20th is designed in such a way that it hits the article from above 30th Can be turned up, with the article 30th at least partially through the passage openings 23 step through it so that the article 30th after attaching the packaging blank 20th on an article group 41 in some areas above and in some areas below the packaging blank 20th are located. Preferably, after the packaging blank has been determined 20th a defined upper area of the article 30th above the packaging blank 20th , while a defined lower area of the article 30th below the packaging blank 20th is arranged. In particular, there is a passage openings 23 delimiting edge area 24 on the outer surface of the article 30th at.

According to a preferred embodiment, the passage openings 23 of the packaging cut 20th have suitable fixing devices, which can be formed, for example, by fixing tabs. For example, fixing tabs are radially separated from the passage openings 23 from extending incisions (in 1 not shown, compare 9A , 9B) o .ä. educated. After arranging and attaching the packaging blank 20th on the articles 30th is this like that with the articles 30th engaged that the packaging blank 20th essentially stationary on the articles 30th is set and the article 30th no significant relative movements or changes in position relative to one another or to the packaging blank 20th can do more. Thus, the packaging blank 20th only with increased effort with an upward force component again from the articles 30th the article group 41 be removed, with the packaging blank 20th is usually at least partially destroyed. Such packaging blanks 20th are also referred to as top cardboard packaging. The packaging cut 20th preferably consists of a cardboard material, a plastic material, a cardboard-plastic composite material or the like.

For the production of a packaging unit 35 becomes a packaging blank 20th pretreated to make the packaging blank 20th in which the passage openings 23 limiting edge areas 24 when applying the packaging blank 20th on the at least two articles 30th to reduce. The pre-treated packaging blank 20th is also used below with the reference number 20v designated. The pre-treated packaging blank 20v is based on an appropriate compilation 40 or article group 41 of at least two articles 30th placed and by an at least partially downward or parallel to the longitudinal axes of the upright article 30th directed application force F. , in particular downward pressure, at least partially on the articles 30th the compilation 40 pressed on and fixed to this. Due to the pretreatment and the resulting reduced resistance, the application force F. can be reduced compared to the known prior art. This makes it possible to cut packaging 20v also on articles 30th to attach, which for example have a smaller wall thickness and are therefore less stable against compressive forces. In this way, the material consumption for the article 30th be reduced.

4th shows a schematic sequence of a method for producing packaging units 35 or containers 36 . For example, in a dividing module or the like, at least two articles 30th to an article group 41 (compare 3A) are compiled, a packaging blank is preferably essentially at the same time or at least promptly 20th taken from a magazine assigned to the packaging module. The article group is fed to the packaging module and the packaging blank is prepared for application to the article group by a suitable device of the packaging module or by a separate device assigned to the packaging module. For example, a pretreatment module for the packaging blanks is assigned to the packaging module or such a pretreatment module is integrated into the packaging module.

The appropriately prepared packaging blank is applied to the combination of at least two articles in the packaging module from above. The prepared packaging blank is preferably brought into a form-fitting and / or non-positive connection with the articles, so that the articles are held in defined positions and in particular in a defined relative arrangement within the packaging unit formed by the packaging blank.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the articles are held together within the packaging unit by at least one further secondary packaging means, for example by additional strapping or the like that encompasses all articles Application of the packaging cut to the articles are arranged and determined. This is possible in particular when using at least one strapping as an additional secondary packaging means or when additionally arranging the articles on a tray or in a basket. If, on the other hand, the further secondary packaging means is applied in the form of shrink packaging, this takes place after the packaging blank has been applied; in particular, a shrink film is wrapped around the articles combined with a packaging blank and shrunk onto them.

5 shows a schematic representation of a first embodiment of a packaging device 1 for the production of packaging units 35 (compare also 3B) from above. The articles 30th , for example the cans filled with drinks 31 , are over a feeding transport device 2 fed. In the present embodiment, the articles 30th in single rows in through alley sheets 4th separate alleys 3 fed. The articles 30th are out of the alleys 3 removed and placed in a rotary module 5 each on turntables 6th arranged. Through the turntable 6th can the article 30th be aligned on the basis of certain equipment features. For example, it is desirable in the trade if at least one of the articles 30th marking barcode and / or other information carriers within a packaging unit 35 directed outwards and thus is / are clearly visible. The alignment of the articles 30th can in particular be monitored by sensors and controlled accordingly. On the alignment of the article 30th However, it is not relevant to the present invention, which therefore only represents an optional component of the packaging device 1 represent.

The articles 30th are then in the defined compilation 40 a first packaging module 7th for applying and fixing the packaging blank, which is at least regionally designed to be flat 20th provided secondary packaging means on the at least two articles 30th fed. The packaging module 7th is at least one magazine 8th assigned, in the flat packaging blanks 20th be held up. A first removal tool (not shown) removes at least one packaging blank 20th from the magazine 8th and takes it to a pre-treatment module 9 . For example, the removal tool is a vacuum suction device that holds the packaging blank, which is at least partially flat 20th especially in the flat area in the magazine 8th sucks, to the pre-treatment module 9 transported and deposited there by releasing the vacuum. Alternatively, the packaging blank 20th be held by means of a clamp, suitable pneumatics, etc., which is released accordingly.

In the pre-treatment module 9 are the packaging blanks 20th subjected to a pretreatment, which has the effect that the packaging blanks become resistant when they are subsequently applied to the assembly of at least two articles 30th is reduced. In particular, there is a resistance of the packaging blank 20th in an edge area 24 the passage openings 23 of the packaging cut 20th reduced (compare 1 ). In particular, it is provided that there is an average diameter of the passage openings 23 is enlarged at least slightly in each case, etc. For example, the pretreatment module comprises 9 suitable stretching tools 18th as they relate to the 7th and 8th are described in more detail.

The pre-treated packaging blank 20v is now for example by a second removal tool (not shown) from the pretreatment module 9 taken and from above on the compilation 40 of articles 30th (compare 3A) pressed on and thereby fixed to this. The second removal tool thus simultaneously takes on the function of an application device. The articles 30th are within the compilation 40 according to the arrangement of the passage openings 23 of the packaging cut 20th , 20v arranged.

In the embodiment shown, it is provided that three packaging units 35 can be generated in parallel. In this respect, the packaging module includes 7th three magazines 8th for packaging cuts 20th and the pre-treatment module 9 , which is in the packaging module 7th can be integrated or can be formed separately, has three devices for pretreating packaging blanks 20th on.

The one with the pre-treated packaging blank 20v to a packaging unit 35 or a container 36 summarized article 30th can now use a conveyor belt, for example 10 can be fed to a further packaging module (not shown) in which at least one second secondary packaging means is additionally attached to the articles 30th the packaging units 35 or container 36 is applied and set. The second packaging module can be, for example, a strapping module in which at least one strapping on the articles 30th the container 36 is attached. In particular, at least one tape-like or strip-like, closed strapping is applied horizontally around an outside of the article 30th curious; excited. One on the outside of the item 30th adjacent inside of the strapping can, if necessary, at a contact point with at least one of the articles 30th be firmly fixed. Thus, the strapping at the contact point can in particular by means of a material bond Be fixed connection in the form of at least one welded connection. Alternatively, the further packaging module can also be, for example, an adhesive module in which the articles 30th be fixed to one another by means of adhesive connections, for example via suitably placed adhesive points at contact points between two articles 30th . Another alternative embodiment can provide that with a pretreated packaging blank 20v summarized article 30th be arranged on a so-called tray or wrapped with a shrink film, the shrink film on the with the pretreated packaging blank 20v summarized article 30th is shrunk.

Alternatively, you can use the pre-treated packaging blank 20v summarized article 30th for example a palletizing module, where a plurality of packaging units 35 put together to form a palletizable layer and several of these palletizable layers are stacked on top of each other.

According to an alternative embodiment, not shown, it can be provided that a correspondingly pretreated packaging blank is attached to an article group as a second secondary packaging means 41 is attached where the article 30th are already combined by a first secondary packaging means, in particular strapping and / or adhesive connections or the like.

6th shows a schematic side view of a packaging device 1 according to 5 . On the description of the related 5 Reference numbers already mentioned are essentially omitted at this point, but the description of the additionally visible features is to be discussed in particular.

The ones across the streets 3 articles are fed in via a suitable first gripper head 11 out of the alleys 3 taken. The first gripper head 11 is for example with a corresponding number and arrangement of packing tulips 12th equipped, with the arrangement of the packing tulips 12th can be changed relative to each other. So the packing tulips 12th for removing the articles from the alleys 3 for example. In a first arrangement. During the first gripper head 11 the article in the direction of the rotary module 5 transported, the relative arrangement of the packing tulips is 12th according to the arrangement of the turntable 6th adjusted so that each item is centered on a turntable 6th is discontinued. Preferably each turntable 6th its own drive 17th , for example a servo motor assigned. In particular, the articles are put together as an article group in connection with the arrangement of the articles on the turntables 6th .

The first gripper head 11 is about a first vertical axis vA1 vertically movable, ie the height of the first gripper head 11 can in particular to remove the article from the alleys 3 and for placing the articles on the turntables 6th be set accordingly. Furthermore, the first gripper head 11 over a horizontal axis Ha laterally between the feeding transport device 2 and the rotary module 5 be moved.

The one in the magazine 8th provided packaging blanks 20th are each over a suitable second gripper head 13th , which, for example, with at least one vacuum suction device 14th is equipped, removed and the pretreatment module described above 9 fed. The second gripper head 13th is about a second vertical axis vA2 vertically movable, ie the height of the second gripper head 13th can in particular be used for the removal of packaging blanks 20th from the magazine 8th and for storing the packaging blanks 20th in the pre-treatment module 9 be set accordingly. Furthermore, the second gripper head 13th about the horizontal axis Ha laterally between the magazine 8th and the pre-treatment module 9 be moved.

7th shows a first embodiment of a pretreatment module 9 . A packaging cut 20th is made by a gripper head 13th , for example a vacuum suction device 14th , from a magazine 8th removed and to the pre-treatment module 9 transferred. This includes so-called expansion tools or expansion dies 18th , for example in the form of expansion cones 19th are trained. The expansion cones 19th are in a relative order that of the order of the articles 30th in the finished packaging unit 35 correspond. In addition, the arrangement of the expansion cones corresponds 19th the arrangement of the passage openings 23 the packaging blanks 20th . The packaging cut 20th is made by the gripper head 13th about the expansion cone 19th everted, so that each one expansion cone 19th each through a passage opening of the packaging blank 20th protrudes.

The packaging cut 20th becomes at the expansion cones 19th pressed down so far that the edge areas 24 the passage openings 23 due to the downward widening cross-section of the expansion cone 19th are stretched, whereby the diameter of the passage openings 23 at least slightly increased. The packaging blank that has been pretreated in this way is then used 20v through the gripper head 13th to the packaging module 7th promoted and on an item group 41 applied. Due to the slope of the expansion cone 19th becomes the packaging blank 20th centered and precisely positioned or aligned. It is preferably provided that the packaging blank 20th for centering at least briefly from the gripper head 13th is released. The pre-treated packaging blank 20v can then through the gripper head 13th recorded exactly and on a corresponding compilation 40 of articles 30th placed and fixed by pressing down on them.

8th shows a second embodiment of a pretreatment module 9 . This is where the packaging cut 20th within the pre-treatment module 9 through the gripper head 13th completely released and with the help of a suitable tool 50 , for example a pressure stamp 51 , on the expansion cone 19th pressed on to the edge areas 24 the passage openings 23 to expand and in this way the resistance of the packaging blank 20th in the edge areas 24 to reduce. Then the appropriately pretreated packaging cut is made 20v by a third gripper head 15th , which, for example, also as a vacuum suction device 16 is formed, received and from the pretreatment module 9 to the packaging module 7th promoted.

9A to 9C shows a first embodiment of a packaging blank 20th and the appropriate pretreatment and application of such a packaging blank 20th on an article group 41 consisting of four articles 30th , in particular consisting of four cans 31 . In particular shows 9A a packaging blank 20th before appropriate pre-treatment, 9B shows a packaging blank 20v after the appropriate pre-treatment and 9 C shows a packaging unit 35 from four articles 30th , which by means of a pretreated packaging cut 20v are summarized. 10a and 10B show a part of the packaging blank 20th , in particular a partial area comprising a passage opening 23 according to 9A and 9B in cross-section.

The packaging cut 20th has four passage openings 23 with an average diameter d23 on. In the passage openings 23 limiting edge areas 24 are each so-called fixing tabs 25th educated. The fixing tabs 25th are in particular formed by the passage openings 23 starting with radial incisions 26th are provided. When pressing the packaging blank 20th on the expansion cone 19th as they relate to the 7th and 8th are described, or by other suitable forming devices, the fixing tabs 25th at least partially pushed up and / or kinked. The fixing tabs 25th now protrude upwards over the plane in which the passage openings 23 located, beyond. By pushing up and / or kinking the fixing tabs 25th the mean diameter of a passage opening increases 23 what by using the reference symbol d23v is marked. In particular, the mean diameter d23 a passage opening 23 of a packaging cut 20th before pretreatment is less than the mean diameter d23v a passage opening 23v of a packaging cut 20th after pretreatment.

However, the mean diameter is enlarged d23v a passage opening 23v after pretreatment, preferably still at least slightly less than a maximum mean diameter of the articles 30th in an upper area, in particular in an upper area, that of the finished packaging unit 35 above that of the articles 30th specified packaging cut 20v is trained.

Preferably are in the finished packaging unit 35 the fixing tabs 25th such with the underside of the respective lid edge 32 of cans 31 engaged that the packaging blank 20th firmly on the cans 31 is fixed and cannot slide upwards (compare also 3B) .

Alternatively, the packaging blank 20th Have perforations that extend radially from the passage openings 23 extend away. When pressing the packaging blank 20th on the expansion cone 19th break up the perforations, creating corresponding fixing tabs 25th are formed, which when further pressing the packaging blank 20th on the expansion cone 19th be bent upwards.

Furthermore, a packaging blank can also be used 20th without fixing straps 25th or a packaging cut 20th without corresponding perforations for the formation of fixing tabs by pressing onto the expansion cone 19th in the area of the passage openings 23 widened and correspondingly with an at least slightly increased mean diameter d23v be provided. Here, in particular, the material from which the packaging blank is made 20th consists in the the passage openings 23 limiting edge areas 24 compressed and / or compressed.

11A to 11C show a second embodiment of a packaging blank 20th and the appropriate pretreatment and application of such a packaging blank 20th on an article group 41 . In particular shows 11A an untreated packaging blank 20th and 11B shows a pre-treated packaging blank 20v . It is provided here that in the pretreatment in the edge area 24 the passage openings 23 cuts in each case 27 and / or (micro) perforations are introduced around the To reduce resistance in this area. In particular, the incisions made in this way extend 27 radially from the passage openings 23 out. When pressing the pre-treated packaging blank 20th directly to the article 30th can the between the incisions 27 trained sub-areas 28 can be pushed upwards with little effort. In particular, it is also provided in this embodiment that the subregions 28 intervene below a maximum article diameter in certain areas, whereby the packaging blank 20v firmly attached to the articles 30th is determined. Furthermore, it can be provided that the pretreatment takes place in two stages, with incisions in a first pretreatment step 27 and / or (micro) perforations in the packaging blank 20th are introduced and, in a second process step, the packaging blank that has been pretreated in this way is pressed onto a corresponding expansion die, as used in connection with the 7th and 8th have already been described in detail.

12A to 12D show a third embodiment of a packaging blank 20th and the appropriate pretreatment and application of such a packaging blank 20th on an article group 41 . In particular shows 12A an untreated packaging blank 20th and 12B shows pre-treated packaging 20v . It is provided that the packaging blank 20th at the edge 24 the passage openings 23 is made more labile by moistening. This is especially true for packaging blanks 20th suitable from a cardboard material. By moistening, for example water vapor or another suitable fluid is applied to the corresponding areas via a steaming device, the material from which the packaging blank is made 20th exists, at least partially softens. In particular, the edge areas are targeted 24 showing the passage openings 23 for the article 30th limit, moistened. The packaging cut 20v with the softened edge areas 24v can now work on the articles with less effort 30th be applied ( 12C ). Furthermore, a drying step can subsequently be provided in which the moistened edge areas 24v of the articles 30th applied pretreated packaging blank 20v be dried again by a suitable drying device, for example by means of drying air or the like. When drying, the edge areas win 24 their stability according to the material properties of the packaging blank 20th back so that the packaging blank 20th especially attached to the articles 30th is applied.

If the packaging cut exists 20th For example, made of a thermoelastic plastic, by heating in certain areas, in particular by heating the passage openings 23 delimiting edge areas 24 , the elastic properties in these heated areas are increased. After the packaging cut 20v with appropriately pretreated, in particular heated, edge areas 24e the passage openings 23 on an article group 41 is applied, the edge areas are placed 24 the passage openings 23 when cooling, particularly advantageous on the outer surface of the article 30th at.

13th shows a schematic sequence of a further embodiment of a method according to the invention for producing packaging units. It is provided here that the packaging blanks can be prepared before they are made available in a magazine of the packaging device. The preparation of the packaging blanks can, for example, already be carried out by the supplier of the packaging blanks. Alternatively, a corresponding pretreatment module can be assigned to the magazine. I. E. in these cases, already prepared packaging blanks for the packaging module of the packaging device are provided in the magazine. The prepared packaging blanks, in which the resistance force is reduced in an edge region of the passage openings of the packaging blanks, are removed from the magazine and applied to the articles of the article group in the manner described above.

14A and 14B show fourth embodiments of a packaging blank 20th and 15th shows a side view of a packaging unit 35 with a packaging blank 20th according to 14A or 14B . Regarding the description of the item 30th particular reference is made to the description of the 1 to 3 referenced.

With the packaging cut 20th it is in particular a so-called handle cut 21 , which is designed to be flat at least in some areas and has a passage opening in this flat area 23 for the application of the handle cut 21 on the article 30th , especially can 31 , having. Furthermore, the handle blank includes 21 a so-called handle opening 29 through which the user can insert at least one finger, for example, in order to be able to hold and / or carry and / or transport the article more easily or better. Instead of the handle opening 29 another suitable support element can also be provided. According to one embodiment of the invention it can be provided that the support element extends at least on one side beyond the plane of the flat area.

As in connection with the 1 to 3 has been described, it is provided in this embodiment that the handle blank 21 in the finished packaging unit 35 below the edge of the lid 32 at the can 31 is fixed. This will ensure that the handle blank is cut 21 not from the article 30th or the can 31 triggers when the user removes the packaging unit 35 on the handle 29 or lifting element (not shown).

16 shows a schematic side view of a packaging device 1 for attaching a handle blank 21 according to 14A or 14B . On the description of the related to the 5 and 6th Reference numbers already mentioned are essentially dispensed with at this point, but the description of the additionally visible features or deviations should be discussed in particular.

The articles are transported via a transport device 2 fed. In a magazine 8th are the handle blanks 21 held up. One handle cut each 21 becomes from the magazine 8th using a suitable gripper head 13th , which, for example, with at least one vacuum suction device 14th is equipped, removed and a pretreatment module 9 fed. The gripper head 13th is about a vertical axis vA2 vertically movable, ie the height of the gripper head 13th can, in particular, carry handle blanks that are kept available for removal 21 from the magazine 8th and for storing the handle blanks 21 in the pre-treatment module 9 be set accordingly. Furthermore, the gripper head 13th over a horizontal axis Ha laterally between the magazine 8th and the pre-treatment module 9 be moved.

The pre-treatment module 9 includes a suitable stretching tool 18th . The pre-treatment of the handle cut 21 , in particular in the area of the respective passage opening, takes place in a manner analogous to that already in connection with 1 to 13th has been described in detail.

The appropriately pretreated handle cut 21v is attached to the article 30th appropriate (compare also 15th ). This can be done, for example, while the article is continuously on the transport device 2 is moved. Alternatively, it can be provided that the respective article on which a handle blank 21 is to be attached by the transport device 2 is removed and into a handling area (not shown) of the packaging module 7th , in which the attachment of the handle blank 21 takes place, is transferred. Then the with an appropriately prepared handle cut 21v provided articles on a further transport device or again on the feeding transport device 2 arranged and fed, for example, to further handling.

The embodiments, examples and variants of the preceding paragraphs, the claims or the following description and the figures, including their different views or respective individual features, can be used independently of one another or in any combination. Features that are described in connection with an embodiment are applicable to all embodiments, provided that the features are not incompatible.

Even if “schematic” representations and views are generally spoken of in connection with the figures, this in no way means that the representations of the figures and their description should be of subordinate importance with regard to the disclosure of the invention. The person skilled in the art is quite able to derive enough information from the schematically and abstractly drawn representations that facilitate his understanding of the invention without having to rely on the drawn and possibly not exactly to scale proportions of the articles and / or parts of the device or other drawn elements would be impaired in its understanding in any way. The figures enable the person skilled in the art as a reader to derive a better understanding of the inventive ideas formulated in the claims and in the general part of the description of general and / or more abstractly formulated ideas on the basis of the more specifically explained implementations of the method according to the invention and the more specifically explained functionality of the device according to the invention.

The invention has been described with reference to a preferred embodiment. However, it is conceivable for a person skilled in the art that modifications or changes can be made to the invention without departing from the scope of protection of the claims below.

List of reference symbols

1

Packaging device

2

Transport device

3

alley

4th

Alley sheet

5

Rotary module

6th

Turntable

7th

Packaging module

8th

magazine

9

Pre-treatment module

10

Conveyor belt

11

first gripper head

12th

Packing tulips

13th

second gripper head

14th

Vacuum cups

15th

third gripper head

16

Vacuum cups

17th

drive

18th

Expansion tool / expansion die

19th

Expansion cone

20th

Packaging cut

20v

pre-treated packaging cut

21

Carry handle cut

21v

pre-treated handle cut

23

Passage openings

23v

Passages after pretreatment

24

Edge area

24v

pre-treated edge area

24e

heated edge area

25th

Fixing tab

25v

Fixing tab after pretreatment

26th

radial incision

27

incision

28

Sub-area

29

Handle opening

30th

items

31

Can

32

Lid rim

33

rejuvenation

34

Clasp

35

Packaging Unit

36

Container

40

Compilation

41

Article group

50

Tool

51

Stamp

d23

mean diameter of a passage opening

d23v

mean diameter of a passage opening after appropriate pretreatment

F.

Application force

Ha

horizontal axis

vA1

first vertical axis

vA2

second vertical axis

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent literature cited

• EP 1075419 B1 [0005]

Claims (15)

Packaging device (1) for the production of packaging units (35), the packaging units (35) comprising at least one article (30), in particular comprising at least one beverage can (31), on which at least one packaging blank (20) which is at least regionally formed and which is flat is arranged The packaging blank (20) has at least one passage opening (23) for the at least one article (30) in the flat area; comprising the packaging device (1) • at least one feed device (2) for the at least one article (30) or for combinations (40) of at least two articles (30); • a pretreatment module (9) for preparing the packaging blank (20) for application to the at least one article (30); • a first packaging module (7) for applying and fixing the packaging blank (20) to the at least one article (30); • wherein the pretreatment module (9) comprises at least one device which is designed to create a resistance force in an edge region (24) of the at least one passage opening (23) of the packaging blank (20) during the subsequent application of the packaging blank (20) to the at least one article (30) reduce. Packaging device (1) according to Claim 1 , the packaging units (35) comprising at least two articles (30), in particular comprising at least two beverage cans (31) which are combined by the at least one packaging blank (20), which packaging blank (20) has passage openings (23) for the at least two articles ( 30); the packaging device (1) comprising • at least one feed device (2) for the at least two articles (30) or for combinations (40) of at least two articles (30); • a pretreatment module (9) for preparing the packaging blank (20) for application to the at least two articles (30); • a first packaging module (7) for applying and fixing the packaging blank (20) to the at least two articles (30); • wherein the pretreatment module (9) comprises at least one device which is designed to apply a resistance force in an edge region (24) of the passage openings (23) of the packaging blank (20) during the subsequent application of the packaging blank (20) to the at least two articles (30) ) to reduce. Packaging device (1) according to Claim 1 or 2 , wherein the device of the pretreatment module (9) comprises at least one expansion die (18). Packaging device (1) according to Claim 3 , the at least one expansion die (18) being detachably arranged in the pretreatment module (9). Packaging device (1) according to Claim 4 , wherein the device of the pretreatment module (9) has a plurality of expansion matrices (18), wherein the expansion matrices (18) can be arranged in different arrangements and / or numbers in the pretreatment module (9). Packaging device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device of the pretreatment module (9) comprises at least one cutting device and / or at least one perforation device. Packaging device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device of the pretreatment module (9) comprises at least one humidification device, in particular a steaming device, or wherein the device of the pretreatment module (9) comprises at least one heating device. A method for producing packaging units (35), the packaging units (35) comprising at least one article (30), in particular comprising at least one beverage can (31), on which at least one packaging blank (20), which is at least regionally flat, is arranged, which packaging blank (20 )) has at least one passage opening (23) for the at least one article (30) in the flat area; the method comprising the following steps: • pretreatment of the packaging blank (20) to reduce a resistance force in an edge region (24) of the at least one passage opening (23) of the packaging blank (20) when applying the packaging blank (20) to the at least one article (30) ; • applying and fixing the appropriately pretreated packaging blank (20) to the at least one article (30); in particular a method for producing packaging units (35) with a packaging device (1) according to one of the Claims 1 to 7th . Procedure according to Claim 8 , wherein a mean diameter (d23) of the at least one passage opening (23) is enlarged during the pretreatment. Method according to one of the Claims 8 to 9 , wherein fixing tabs (25) formed in the edge area (24) of the at least one passage opening (23) are at least partially bent over, so that the fixing tabs (25) then open a plane in which the at least one passage opening (23) are arranged protrude. Method according to one of the Claims 8 to 10 , wherein the packaging blank (20) is pressed onto a device with at least one expansion die (18). Procedure according to Claim 11 , the number and arrangement of the expansion dies (18) corresponding to the number and arrangement of the passage openings (23) of the packaging blank (20), and the packaging blank (20) being pressed onto the expansion dies (18) in such a way that the at least one expansion dies ( 18) passes through the at least one passage opening (23) at least in some areas. Method according to one of the Claims 8 to 12th During the pretreatment, incisions (27) and / or (micro) perforations are made in the edge region (24) of the at least one passage opening (23), in particular radial incisions (27) and / or radial (micro) perforations. Method according to one of the Claims 7 to 12th , the edge region of the at least one passage opening (23) being moistened during the pretreatment. Method according to one of the Claims 7 to 12th , with at least one passage opening (23) being heated during the pretreatment.

Images