GB2640398A

GB2640398A - Forming set

Info

Publication number: GB2640398A
Application number: GB2405302.7A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Loxley Phillip
Original assignee: Kenray Holding Ltd
Current assignee: Kenray Holding Ltd
Priority date: 2024-04-15
Filing date: 2024-04-15
Publication date: 2025-10-22
Also published as: WO2025219424A1; GB202405302D0

Abstract

A forming set (10) for a vertical form, fill and seal (VFFS) arrangement (100). The forming set (10) comprises a forming tool (12) and an interface plate (14). The interface plate (14) is mountable to a base plate (16) of the VFFS arrangement (100). The forming tool (12) comprises a connecting plate (18). The connecting plate (18) is reversibly connectable to the interface plate (14).

Description

FORMING SET

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to a forming set, and more particularly to a forming set for a vertical form, fill and seal (VFFS) arrangement.

Technical Background

Flow wrapping is a process of loosely containing a product in a sealed flexible container packaging, such as a bag or pouch. As described below, during the flow wrapping process, seals are created at two ends of the container with another seal along the middle of the back of the container.

Flow-wrap packaging is typically manufactured by a vertical form, fill and seal (VFFS) arrangement or a horizontal form, fill and seal (HFFS) arrangement.

In a typical VFFS arrangement, a flexible packaging material, in the form of a continuous length of film, is drawn from a roll over a forming section configured to fold the packaging material from an initially flat configuration into a tubular package structure conforming to the shape of the forming section.

Overlapping longitudinally extending edges of the tubular package structure are then sealed longitudinally by sealing apparatus, creating a seal along the middle of the back of the container. Horizontal seals are subsequently made at regular intervals as each package is cut to separate it from the length of film to form individual containers, for instance, in the form of packets, bags, or pouches.

A measured quantity of product to be packaged is dropped into each container before a top horizontal seal is formed.

A VFFS arrangement typically comprises a removeable forming tool mounted in use to a base plate. A typical forming tool comprises the forming section and the sealing apparatus as described above.

Forming tools are typically tailored for a particular VFFS arrangement. For instance, a forming tool may be configured for use with only VFFS arrangements of one particular manufacturer. Furthermore, forming tools are typically configured for only one application on a particular VFFS arrangement. A user may therefore require a number of different forming tools for each particular VFFS arrangement and/or application.

There is, therefore, a need to mitigate these drawbacks.

Summary of the Disclosure

According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a forming set for a VFFS arrangement, wherein the forming set comprises a forming tool and an interface plate, wherein the interface plate is mountable to a base plate of the VFFS arrangement, wherein the forming tool comprises a connecting plate, wherein the connecting plate is reversibly connectable to the interface plate.

The connecting plate of the forming tool can be readily disconnected from the interface plate, the interface plate having been mounted to a base plate of a particular VFFS arrangement. The connecting plate of the forming tool can then be connected to another interface plate mounted to a base plate of a different VFFS arrangement. Forming tools according to examples of the disclosure can therefore be used in conjunction with a variety of different VFFS arrangements.

The connecting plate may be reversibly connectable to the interface plate by a non-permanent fixing. The non-permanent fixing may comprise a magnetic assembly. The magnetic assembly may comprise corresponding permanent magnets respectively associated with the connecting plate and the interface plate. The non-permanent fixing may comprise a lip associated with the interface plate under which a section of the connecting plate is locatable in a connected condition of the connecting plate and the interface plate.

The interface plate may comprise a recess configured to receive the connecting plate. The interface plate may comprise a shelf on which the connecting plate can sit in the recess in a connected condition. The lip may overlie a portion of the recess.

The forming tool may comprise an inlet tube having an inlet opening for receiving product to be packaged by the VFFS arrangement. Possibly, the forming tool is configured such that the inlet tube is moveable relative to the connecting plate to adjust the in-use position of the inlet opening. The inlet tube may be moveable relative to the connecting plate in a direction parallel to a central longitudinal axis of the forming tool.

Possibly, the forming tool comprises a forming section configured to fold packaging material useable with the VFFS arrangement from an initially flat configuration into a tubular package structure conforming to the shape of the forming section. The forming section may comprise a forming shoulder.

Possibly, the forming tool comprises a sealing tube, wherein the sealing tube comprises sealing apparatus configured to longitudinally seal overlapping longitudinally extending edges of a tubular package structure. The sealing tube may be moveable relative to the connecting plate in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the forming tool.

The sealing apparatus may comprise a sealing strip. The forming tool may be configured such that the position of the sealing strip is adjustable relative to the connecting plate. The forming tool may be configured such that the longitudinal position of the sealing strip is adjustable relative to the connecting plate.

Possibly, the sealing tube has an outlet opening, wherein the forming tool is configured such that the sealing tube is moveable relative to the connecting plate to adjust the in-use position of the outlet opening.

If required for a particular application, the relative positions of the inlet tube and/or sealing tube can therefore be readily adjusted. By adjusting the relative positions of the inlet tube and/or sealing tube, the respective in-use positions of the inlet opening, sealing strip and outlet opening can be changed to suit a particular application or a set of constraints imposed by a particular VFFS arrangement. Forming tools according to examples of the disclosure can therefore be used for a variety of different applications.

Possibly, the forming tool comprises at least one elongate member extending from the connecting plate, wherein the at least one elongate member provides a handling portion. The at least one elongate member may extend from the connecting plate in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the forming tool.

Possibly, the forming tool comprises a clamping ring associated with the inlet tube, wherein the clamping ring is operable to apply a clamping force to fix the position of the inlet tube relative to the connecting plate.

Possibly, the forming tool comprises a clamping arrangement associated with the sealing tube, wherein the clamping arrangement is operable to apply a clamping force to fix the position of the sealing tube relative to the connecting plate.

The interface plate may be formed of stainless steel. The connecting plate may be formed of stainless steel.

According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a forming tool for a forming set, wherein the forming tool comprises a connecting plate, wherein the connecting plate is reversibly connectable to an interface plate of the forming set, the interface plate being mountable to a base plate of a VFFS arrangement.

According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an interface plate for a forming set, wherein the interface plate is mountable to a base plate of a VFFS arrangement, wherein the interface plate is reversibly connectable to a connecting plate of a forming tool.

According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a VFFS arrangement, wherein the VFFS arrangement comprises a forming set, wherein the forming set comprises a forming tool and an interface plate, wherein the interface plate is mounted to a base plate of the VFFS arrangement, wherein the forming tool comprises a connecting plate, wherein the connecting plate is reversibly connected to the interface plate.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Some examples will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a diagrammatic perspective view from slightly above of a forming set according to examples of the disclosure comprising a forming tool and an interface plate; Figure 2 is a diagrammatic perspective view from slightly below of the forming set of Figure 1; Figure 3 is a diagrammatic view of a VFFS arrangement according to examples of the

disclosure;

Figure 4 is a diagrammatic perspective view from slightly below of the forming tool of Figure 1; Figure 5 is a diagrammatic perspective front view of the forming tool of Figure 4; Figure 6 is a diagrammatic perspective side view of the forming tool of Figure 4; Figure 7 is a diagrammatic perspective view from below of the forming tool of Figure 4; Figure 8 is a diagrammatic perspective view from slightly above of the interface plate of Figure 1; Figure 9 is a diagrammatic view from above of the interface plate of Figure 8; and Figure 10 is a diagrammatic perspective view from one side of the interface plate of Figure 8.

Detailed Description

The present disclosure will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Referring initially to Figures 1, 2 and 3 there is shown diagrammatically a forming set 10 for a vertical form, fill and seal (VFFS) arrangement 100. The forming set 10 comprises a forming tool 12 and an interface plate 14. The central longitudinal axis 15 of the forming tool 12 is shown in the Figures for reference.

Referring to Figure 3, the interface plate 14 is mountable to a base plate 16 of the VFFS arrangement 100. The interface plate 14 is mountable to the base plate 16, for example, by a bolted joint. Bolted Joints are defined as separable joints which are used to hold parts together by means of a threaded fastening, i.e. a bolt and nut. Since these joints are of the non-permanent variety, parts can be disassembled for maintenance, inspection, and replacement.

In other examples, the interface plate 14 may be mountable to the base plate 16 by permanent joints or fixings such as welds and/or rivets.

In some examples, the VFFS arrangement 100 is configured for packaging food and/or pharmaceutical products.

Figures 4, 5, 6 and 7 show the forming tool 12 (without the interface plate 14). Figures 8, 9 and 10 show the interface plate 14 (without the forming tool 12).

Referring to all the Figures, the forming tool 12 comprises a connecting plate 18. The connecting plate 18 is reversibly connectable to the interface plate 14. The connecting plate 18 and interface plate 14 are therefore configured to reversibly connect to one another. The interface plate 14 provides a docking station for the connecting plate 18. The connecting plate 18 can therefore dock with, or into, the interface plate 14. The forming set 10 therefore comprises a separable interface plate 14.

The connecting plate 18 is substantially planar. The interface plate 14 is substantially planar.

In the illustrated example, the connecting plate 18 is reversibly connectable to the interface plate 14 by a non-permanent fixing 20. The non-permanent fixing 20 comprises a magnetic assembly 22. The magnetic assembly 22 comprises corresponding permanent magnets 24, 26 respectively associated with the connecting plate 18 and the interface plate 14. The corresponding permanent magnets 24, 26 are respectively arranged in the connecting plate 18 and the interface plate 14. Accordingly, the connecting plate 18 comprises at least one permanent magnet 24 and the interface plate 14 comprises at least one permanent magnet 26.

In a connected condition of the connecting plate 18 and the interface plate 14 (as shown in Figures 1 and 2), opposite poles of the permanent magnets 24, 26 are in a facing arrangement such that the permanent magnets 24, 26 are attracted to one another.

In the illustrated example, the connecting plate 18 comprises two spaced apart permanent magnets 24. The interface plate 14 comprises two corresponding spaced apart permanent magnets 26.

The non-permanent fixing 20 further comprises a lip 28 (best shown in Figures 8 to 10) associated with the interface plate 14. The lip 28 is arranged on the interface plate 14. Accordingly, the interface plate 14 comprises a lip 28. A section of the connecting plate 18 is locatable under the lip 28 in a connected condition of the connecting plate 18 and the interface plate 14 (as shown in Figures 1 and 2). In the illustrated example, the section 74 of the connecting plate 18 locatable under the lip 28 in a connected condition is an in-use rear edge section 76 (as best shown in Figures 4, 6 and 8). The in-use rear edge 76 section extends perpendicularly relative to the central longitudinal axis 15 of the forming tool 12. The in-use rear edge section 76 is an elongate laterally extending edge.

The interface plate 14 further comprises a recess 30 dimensioned to receive the connecting plate 18. The recess 30 is dimensioned to receive the profile of the connecting plate 18. The recess 30 is configured to receive the connecting plate 18. The recess 30 defines an internal area 32, i.e. internal dimensions, of the interface plate 14. The lip 28 overlies a portion of the recess 30.

The interface plate 14 comprises a shelf 34 on which the connecting plate 18 can sit in the recess 30 in a connected condition.

In use, to connect the forming tool 12 to the interface plate 14, the forming tool 12 is handled so that the connecting plate 18 is aligned with the shelf 34 and orientated so that a section 74 locates under the lip 28. The connecting plate 18 is then lowered into the recess 30 to sit on the shelf 34. In this connected condition, the corresponding permanent magnets 24, 26 are in a facing arrangement and are thus attracted to one another to provide a secure fixing. To remove the forming tool 12, the connecting plate 18 is tilted slightly against the underside of the lip 28 to dissociate the corresponding permanent magnets 24, 26 and permit lifting of the connecting plate 18 from recess 30.

The connecting plate 18 of the forming tool 12 can therefore be readily disconnected from the interface plate 14, the interface plate 14 having been mounted to a base plate of a particular VFFS arrangement 100, for instance, by the application of minimal manual effort to overcome the non-permanent fixing 20. The connecting plate 18 of the forming tool 12 can then be connected to another interface plate 14 mounted to a base plate 16 of a different VFFS arrangement 100. Forming tools 12 according to examples of the disclosure can therefore be used in conjunction with a variety of different VFFS arrangements. In other words, a single forming tool 12 can be used on different VFFS arrangements.

A typical user of the forming set 10 may have several interface plates 14 mounted to base plates of a number of different VFFS arrangements 100. A single forming tool 12 can then be used on each of the different VFFS arrangement 100 as described above. In some instances, each interface plate 14 may have a different footprint in terms of its dimensions, i.e., overall size and shape and mounting point positions. In such cases, the footprint and mounting point positions of the interface plate 14 are configured to correspond to a base plate of a particular VFFS arrangements 100. Base plates of VFFS arrangements 100 from different manufacturers can differ, for example, in terms of dimensions and/or positions of mounting points. The dimensions of the recess 30 for each such interface plate 14 can though be conserved to correspond to the connecting plate 18 of a particular forming tool 12. Accordingly, a connecting plate 18 of a particular forming tool 12 can be reversibly connected to each interface plate 14. A single forming tool 12 can therefore be used across a range of different VFFS arrangements 100.

In examples of the disclosure, co-packers with different VFFS arrangements 100 can therefore readily move the forming tool 12 to maximize production demands, and/or to counter machine breakdowns.

In the illustrated example, the forming tool 12 further comprises an inlet tube 36 having an inlet opening 38 for receiving product to be packaged by the VFFS arrangement 100. The inlet tube 36 provides an inlet into the forming tool 12. The inlet tube 36 has a funnel shaped portion 40 associated with the inlet opening 38.

The forming tool 12 is configured such that the inlet tube 36 is moveable relative to the connecting plate 18 to adjust the in-use position of the inlet opening 38. The inlet tube 36 is longitudinally moveable.

The inlet tube 36 is moveable relative to the connecting plate 18 in a direction substantially parallel to the central longitudinal axis 15 of the forming tool 12. The inlet tube 36 may be moveable relative to the connecting plate 18 in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis 15 of the forming tool 12. The length of the inlet tube 36 is therefore adjustable. The in-use elevation of the inlet opening 38 relative to the connecting plate 18 can therefore be adjusted. The inlet tube 36 is therefore hight adjustable, i.e., the overall height of the inlet tube 36 can be adjusted or changed.

In the illustrated example, the forming tool 12 further comprises a forming section 42 in the guise of a forming shoulder 44. In use, a flexible packaging material useable with the VFFS arrangement 100, in the form of a continuous length of film, is drawn from a roll (not shown) by a drive assembly (not shown) in a film unwinding process over the forming shoulder 44. The forming shoulder 44 is configured to fold the packaging material from an initially flat configuration into a tubular package structure (or tubular formation) conforming to the shape of the forming shoulder 44. Packaging material is conveyed in a machine direction over the forming shoulder 44.

In the illustrated example, the forming tool 12 further comprises a sealing tube 46 defining an in-use vertical shaft. The sealing tube 46 comprises sealing apparatus 48.

The forming tool 12 is configured such that the sealing tube 46 is moveable relative to the connecting plate 18 to adjust the in-use position of the sealing tube 46. The sealing tube 46 is longitudinally moveable.

The sealing tube 46 is moveable relative to the connecting plate 18 in a direction substantially parallel to the central longitudinal axis 15 of the forming tool 12. The sealing tube 46 may be moveable relative to the connecting plate 18 in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis 15 of the forming tool 12.

The sealing apparatus 48 comprises a sealing strip 50, e.g., a heater bar assembly 51. The forming tool 12 may comprise a plurality of sealing strips 50.

The position of the sealing strip 50 can therefore be adjusted by moving the sealing tube 46 relative to the connecting plate 18. The forming tool 12 is configured such that the position of the sealing strip 50 is adjustable relative to the connecting plate 18. In the illustrated example, the forming tool 12 is configured such that the longitudinal position of the sealing strip 50 is adjustable relative to the connecting plate 18.

In use, overlapping longitudinally extending edges of the tubular package structure are sealed longitudinally by the sealing strip 50, creating a seal along the middle of the back of the container. The sealing strip 50 is therefore configured to longitudinally seal overlapping longitudinally extending edges of the tubular package structure. In the illustrated example, the sealing strip 50 for creating a seal along the middle of the back of a container is provided on the sealing tube 46 at the in-use front of the forming tool 12. The in-use front of the forming tool 12 is the perspective shown in Figure 5. In use, the longitudinally extending edges of the tubular package structure overlap the sealing strip 50 on the sealing tube 46 as the film traverses in a machine direction thereby creating a seal along the middle of the back of the container.

The length of the sealing tube 46 is therefore adjustable. The sealing tube 46 is therefore hight adjustable, i.e., the overall height of the sealing tube 46 can be adjusted or changed. The sealing tube 46 has an outlet opening 52.

The forming tool 12 is configured such that the sealing tube 46 is moveable relative to the connecting plate 18 to adjust the in-use position of the outlet opening 52. The sealing tube 46 is moveable relative to the connecting plate 18 in a direction substantially parallel to the central longitudinal axis 15 of the forming tool 12. The sealing tube 46 may be moveable relative to the connecting plate 18 in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis 15 of the forming tool 12.

Horizontal seals, i.e., transverse seals, are subsequently made at regular intervals as each package is cut by a pair of horizontally opposing jaws (not shown) comprised in a film takeoff unit (not shown) to separate the package from the length of film to form individual containers, for instance, in the form of packets, bags, or pouches.

In use, a measured quantity of product (or items) to be packaged is dropped through the inlet opening 38 of inlet tube 36 and subsequently exits the forming tool 12 through the outlet opening 52 of the sealing tube 46 into each container before the top horizontal seal is formed. The transverse seal of a full container simultaneously forms the first transverse seal of the next container. This transverse seal can be divided in the same pass by a blade integrated in the horizontally opposing jaws. The container filling process may be continuous of intermittent.

In some examples, the film take-off unit comprises belt straps (not shown) which in use are pressed against the sides of the film causing the film to be pulled downwards in a machine direction. In the illustrated example, the belt straps act on the film at contact strips 72 on the sealing tube 46. A pair of diametrically opposed contact strips 72 is provided. In the illustrated example, the contact strips 72 are disposed adjacent to the sealing strip 50 on the inlet tube 36. The respective contact strips 72 and sealing strip 50 are disposed at different arc points around the circumference of the inlet tube 36.

The inlet tube 36 and the sealing tube 46 are arranged coaxially with respect to the central longitudinal axis 15 of the forming tool 12.

The inlet tube 36 and the sealing tube 46 are telescopic. The inlet tube 36 and the sealing tube 46 are concentric tubular sections configured to slide relative to one another. In some examples, the forming tool 12 is configured such that the inlet tube 36 can slide into, and out of, the sealing tube 46. In other examples, the forming tool 12 is configured such that the sealing tube 46 can slide into, and out of, inlet tube 36.

In the illustrated example, the forming tool 12 comprises a clamping arrangement 60 associated with the sealing tube 46. The clamping arrangement 60 comprises a sleeve clamp 62 and a linkage element 78. The sleeve clamp 62 comprises a plurality of adjustable fasteners 68 along corresponding flanged longitudinal edges 70 of the sleeve clamp 62.

Actuating the clamping arrangement 60 to apply a clamping force restricts movement of the sealing tube 46 relative to the connecting plate 18, i.e., fixes the position of the sealing tube 46 relative to the connecting plate 18. The application of a clamping force, (i.e., by tightening the fasteners 68 of the sleeve clamp 62), compresses the linkage element 78 onto the sealing tube 46 causing a mating engagement. Actuating the clamping arrangement 60 to remove the clamping force (i.e., by loosening the fasteners 68) causes the linkage element 78 to expand and so disengage the sealing tube 46. The sealing tube 46 can thus be moved relative to the connecting plate 18.

Accordingly, the clamping arrangement 60 is operable to apply a clamping force to fix the position of the sealing tube 46 relative to the connecting plate 18.

In the illustrated example, the forming tool 12 further comprises a clamping ring 64 associated with the inlet tube 36. The clamping ring 64 comprises a pair of diametrically opposed grub screws 66 (as best shown in in Figure 5).

Actuating the clamping ring 64 to apply a clamping force (i.e., by tightening the grub screws 66) restricts movement of the inlet tube 36 relative to the connecting plate 18, i.e., fixes the position of the inlet tube 36 relative to the connecting plate 18. Actuating the clamping ring 64 to remove the clamping force (i.e., by loosening the grub screws 66) permits movement of the inlet tube 36 relative to the connecting plate 18.

Accordingly, the clamping ring 64 is operable to apply a clamping force to fix the position of the inlet tube 36 relative to the connecting plate 18.

The provision of a clamping arrangement 60 associated with the sealing tube 46, and separately, a clamping ring 64 associated with the inlet tube 36, permits the sealing tube 46 and the inlet tube 36 to be independently moveable relative to the connecting plate 18.

In the illustrated example, the clamping ring 64 is provided on an in-use upper part of the sealing tube 46. Accordingly, an in-use upper part of the sealing tube 46 comprises the clamping ring 64. In some examples, the clamping ring 64 may comprise a reinforcing ring, which may be welded to the in-use upper part of the sealing tube 46.

In other examples, the inlet tube 36 may instead be associated with a clamping arrangement 60 as described above. The sealing tube 46 may instead be associated with a clamping ring 64 as described above. In other examples, the inlet tube 36 and the sealing tube 46 may both be associated with a single fixing means, for instance, a clamping arrangement 60 or a clamping ring 64 as described above. In other examples, the inlet tube 36 and the sealing tube 46 may each be separately associated with a respective clamping arrangement 60 or a respective clamping ring 64 as described above.

If required for a particular application, the relative positions of the inlet tube 36 and/or sealing tube 46 can therefore be readily adjusted. By adjusting the relative positions of the inlet tube 36 and/or sealing tube 46, the respective in-use positions of the inlet opening 38, sealing strip 50 and outlet opening 52 can be changed to suit a particular application or a set of constraints imposed by a particular VFFS arrangement 100. Furthermore, the in-use positions of the contact strips 72 can be adjusted. The in-use position of the inlet opening 38 is adjustable independently of the sealing strip 50, outlet opening 52 and contact strips 72. Forming tools 12 according to examples of the disclosure can therefore be used for a variety of different applications.

In some examples, the inlet tube 36 and the sealing tube 46 may instead be a unitary arrangement or unitary casting, i.e., a one-piece arrangement or a static tube arrangement. In such examples, the forming set 10 is adapted to an application or to VFFS arrangements 100 where movement of the inlet tube 36 and/or the sealing tube 46 is not required. Such adaptations may reduce overall cost and complexity.

In some examples, the forming tool 12 comprises at least one elongate member 54 extending from the connecting plate 18. In the illustrated example, the forming tool 12 comprises two spaced apart parallel elongate members 54 extending from the connecting plate 18. In other examples, the forming tool 12 comprises a single elongate member 54 extending from the connecting plate 18.

The elongate member(s) provide a handling portion 56 permitting the forming tool to be handled. The handling portion 56 comprises a plurality of ridges 58 to improve grip. In some examples, the at least one elongate member 54 is a post.

The at least one elongate member 54 extends from the connecting plate 18 in a direction substantially parallel to the central longitudinal axis 15 of the forming tool 12. In some examples, the at least one elongate member 54 extends from the connecting plate 18 in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis 15 of the forming tool 12.

In some examples, the interface plate 14 is formed of stainless steel. In some examples, the connecting plate 18 is formed of stainless steel. In some examples, all metallic parts of the forming set 10 are formed of stainless steel. In some examples, all metallic parts of the forming tool 12 are formed of stainless steel.

Typically, forming tools for packaging food, e.g., salads, are cleaned with a caustic solution.

Parts of forming sets which contact food (i.e., which are in the product flow) are generally formed of stainless steel, which is resistant to corrosion, and thus can be cleaned with caustic solution. However, parts of forming sets which do not contact food (i.e., which are not in the product flow) are typically formed of a more lightweight material, such as aluminium, to reduce the overall weight of the forming set so that it does not exceed the lifting weight limited, which is about 15 kilos. In practice, aluminium parts are often anyway cleaned with caustic solution.

Despite such parts not coming into contacting with food, corrosion products may inadvertently contaminate the parts which do contact food.

In examples of the disclosure, in use, the interface plate 14 is mounted to the base plate 16 of the VFFS arrangement 100. In a separate step, the connecting plate 18 of the forming tool 12 is then reversibly connected to the mounted interface plate 14. The overall weight of the forming tool 12 is therefore reduced compared to known forming tools which have connecting plates adapted to connect directly to corresponding base plates of VFFS arrangements. Connecting plates of known forming tools are therefore significantly larger (and therefore heavier) given the adaptations required for a direct connection, such as fixings and an increased footprint to correspond to a mating area on a base plate.

In examples of the disclosure, given that a separate interface plate 14 is provided, the connecting plate 18 is smaller in size (and therefore contributes less weight). The connecting plate 18 can therefore be formed of stainless steel without the overall weight of the forming tool 12 exceeding the lifting weight limit. The interface plate 14 can be formed of stainless steel given that it is not handled together with the forming tool 12.

As described above, stainless steel is resistant to corrosion and therefore can be cleaned using caustic solution without the risk of corrosion products being formed.

Examples of the disclosure therefore provide a corrosion resistant e., caustic resistant) forming set 10 of a handleable weight.

Examples of the disclosure separately provide a forming tool 12 for the forming set 10. As described above, the forming tool 12 comprises the connecting plate 18. The connecting plate 18 is reversibly connectable to the interface plate 14. The interface plate 14 is mountable to the base plate 16 of the VFFS arrangement 100.

Examples of the disclosure separately provide an interface plate 14 for the forming set 10. As described above, the interface plate 14 is mountable to the base plate 16 of the VFFS arrangement 100. The interface plate 14 is reversibly connectable to the connecting plate 18 of the forming tool 12.

Examples of the disclosure separately provide a VFFS arrangement 100. As described above, the VFFS arrangement 100 comprises the forming set 10. The forming set 10 comprises the forming tool 12 and the interface plate 14. The interface plate 14 is mounted to the base plate 16 of the VFFS arrangement 100. The forming tool 12 further comprises the connecting plate 18. The connecting plate 18 is reversibly connected to the interface plate 14.

The Figures also illustrate a method of manufacturing a forming set 10 according to examples of the disclosure, and separately a method of manufacturing a forming tool 12 and an interface plate 14 according to examples of the disclosure. The Figures also illustrate a method of providing an VFFS arrangement 100 comprising a forming set 10 according to examples of the disclosure.

There is thus described a forming set 10, a forming tool 12, an interface plate 14, and a VFFS arrangement 100 with a number of advantages as described above and below.

As described above, forming tools 12 according to examples of the disclosure can be used in conjunction with a variety of different VFFS arrangements 100 and/or for a variety of different applications providing a cost-effective solution.

In some examples, the forming set 10 may be referred to as a cartridge system reflecting the substantially rectangular profile of the connecting plate 18 and correspondingly shaped recess 30 of the interface plate 14 which is dimensioned to receive the connecting plate 18.

The term 'comprise' is used in this document with an inclusive not an exclusive meaning. That is any reference to X comprising Y indicates that X may comprise only one Y or may comprise more than one Y. If it is intended to use 'comprise' with an exclusive meaning then it will be made clear in the context by referring to "comprising only one.." or by using "consisting".

In this description, reference has been made to various examples. The description of features or functions in relation to an example indicates that those features or functions are present in that example. The use of the term 'example' or 'for example' or 'can' or 'may' in the text denotes, whether explicitly stated or not, that such features or functions are present in at least the described example, whether described as an example or not, and that they can be, but are not necessarily, present in some of or all other examples. Thus 'example', 'for example', 'can' or 'may' refers to a particular instance in a class of examples. A property of the instance can be a property of only that instance or a property of the class or a property of a sub-class of the class that includes some but not all of the instances in the class. It is therefore implicitly disclosed that a feature described with reference to one example but not with reference to another example, can where possible be used in that other example as part of a working combination but does not necessarily have to be used in that other example.

Although examples have been described in the preceding paragraphs with reference to various examples, it should be appreciated that modifications to the examples given can be made without departing from the scope of the claims. For example, the dimensions and/or shape of the connecting plate 18 and/or interface plate 14 may be varied according to a particular VFFS arrangement or application. The forming set 10 may comprise a plurality of different interface plates 14 according to examples of the disclosure.

Features described in the preceding description may be used in combinations other than the combinations explicitly described above.

Although functions have been described with reference to certain features, those functions may be performable by other features whether described or not.

Although features have been described with reference to certain examples, those features may also be present in other examples whether described or not.

The term 'a' or 'the' is used in this document with an inclusive not an exclusive meaning. That is any reference to X comprising a/the Y indicates that X may comprise only one Y or may comprise more than one Y unless the context clearly indicates the contrary. If it is intended to use 'a' or 'the' with an exclusive meaning then it will be made clear in the context. In some circumstances the use of 'at least one' or 'one or more' may be used to emphasis an inclusive meaning but the absence of these terms should not be taken to infer any exclusive meaning.

The presence of a feature (or combination of features) in a claim is a reference to that feature or (combination of features) itself and also to features that achieve substantially the same technical effect (equivalent features). The equivalent features include, for example, features that are variants and achieve substantially the same result in substantially the same way. The equivalent features include, for example, features that perform substantially the same function, in substantially the same way to achieve substantially the same result.

In this description, reference has been made to various examples using adjectives or adjectival phrases to describe characteristics of the examples. Such a description of a characteristic in relation to an example indicates that the characteristic is present in some examples exactly as described and is present in other examples substantially as described.

Whilst endeavoring in the foregoing specification to draw attention to those features believed to be of importance it should be understood that the Applicant may seek protection via the claims in respect of any patentable feature or combination of features hereinbefore referred to and/or shown in the drawings whether or not emphasis has been placed thereon.

Uwe claim:

Claims

Claims 1. A forming set (10) for a vertical form, fill and seal (VFFS) arrangement (100), wherein the forming set (10) comprises a forming tool (12) and an interface plate (14), wherein the interface plate (14) is mountable to a base plate (16) of the VFFS arrangement (100), wherein the forming tool (12) comprises a connecting plate (18), wherein the connecting plate (18) is reversibly connectable to the interface plate (14).
2. A forming set (10) according to claim 1, wherein the connecting plate (18) is reversibly connectable to the interface plate (14) by a non-permanent fixing (20).
3. A forming set (10) according to claim 2, wherein the non-permanent fixing (20) comprises a magnetic assembly (22).
4. A forming set (10) according to claim 3, wherein the magnetic assembly (22) comprises corresponding permanent magnets (24, 26) respectively associated with the connecting plate (18) and the interface plate (14).
5. A forming set (10) according to any of claims 2 to 4, wherein the non-permanent fixing (20) comprises a lip (28) associated with the interface plate (14) under which a section (74) of the connecting plate (18) is locatable in a connected condition of the connecting plate (18) and the interface plate (14).
6. A forming set (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the interface plate (14) comprises a recess (30) configured to receive the connecting plate (18).
7. A forming set (10) according to claim 6, wherein the interface plate (14) comprises a shelf (34) on which the connecting plate (18) can sit in the recess (30) in a connected condition.
8. A forming set (10) according to claims 6 or 7 when dependent on claim 5, wherein the lip (28) overlies a portion of the recess (30).
9. A forming set (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the forming tool (12) comprises an inlet tube (36) having an inlet opening (38) for receiving product to be packaged by the VFFS arrangement (100).
10. A forming set (10) according to claim 9, wherein the forming tool (12) is configured such that the inlet tube (36) is moveable relative to the connecting plate (18) to adjust the in-use position of the inlet opening (38).
11. A forming set (10) according to claim 10, wherein the inlet tube (36) is moveable relative to the connecting plate (18) in a direction parallel to a central longitudinal axis (15) of the forming tool (12).
12. A forming set (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the forming tool (12) comprises a forming section (42) configured to fold packaging material useable with the VFFS arrangement (100) from an initially flat configuration into a tubular package structure conforming to the shape of the forming section (42).
13. A forming set (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the forming tool (12) comprises a sealing tube (46), wherein the sealing tube (46) comprises sealing apparatus (48) configured to longitudinally seal overlapping longitudinally extending edges of a tubular package structure.
14. A forming set (10) according to claim 13, wherein the sealing tube (46) is moveable relative to the connecting plate (18) in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis (15) of the forming tool (12).
15. A forming set (10) according to claims 13 or 14, wherein the sealing apparatus (48) comprises a sealing strip (50).
16. A forming set (10) according to claim 15, wherein the forming tool (12) is configured such that the position of the sealing strip (50) is adjustable relative to the connecting plate (18).
17. A forming set (10) according to claim 15, wherein the forming tool (12) is configured such that the longitudinal position of the sealing strip (50) is adjustable relative to the connecting plate (18).
18. A forming set (10) according to any of claims 13 to 17, wherein the sealing tube (46) has an outlet opening (52), wherein the forming tool (12) is configured such that the sealing tube (46) is moveable relative to the connecting plate (18) to adjust the in-use position of the outlet opening (52).
19. A forming set (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the forming tool (12) comprises at least one elongate member (54) extending from the connecting plate (18), wherein the at least one elongate member (54) provides a handling portion (56)
20. A forming set (10) according to claim 19, wherein the at least one elongate member (54) extends from the connecting plate (18) in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis (15) of the forming tool (12).
21. A forming set (10) according to any of claims 9 to 11, wherein the forming tool (12) comprises a clamping ring (64) associated with the inlet tube (36), wherein the clamping ring (64) is operable to apply a clamping force to fix the position of the inlet tube (36) relative to the connecting plate (18).
22. A forming set (10) according to any of claims 13 to 18, wherein the forming tool (12) comprises a clamping arrangement (60) associated with the sealing tube (46), wherein the clamping arrangement (60) is operable to apply a clamping force to fix the position of the sealing tube (46) relative to the connecting plate (18).
23. A forming set (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the interface plate (14) is formed of stainless steel.
24. A forming set (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting plate (18) is formed of stainless steel.
25. A VFFS arrangement (100), wherein the VFFS arrangement (100) comprises a forming set (10), wherein the forming set (10) comprises a forming tool (12) and an interface plate (14), wherein the interface plate (14) is mounted to a base plate (16) of the VFFS arrangement (100), wherein the forming tool (12) comprises a connecting plate (18), wherein the connecting plate (18) is reversibly connected to the interface plate (14).