Patent ID: 8590279
Filing Date: 2013-11-26
Classification: B65B

Abstract:
1. A method for packaging products, such as candies, in an array of removable enclosures, comprising the steps of: positioning the products on a bottom, planar first sheet which is continuously moved in a transport direction, the products have an elongated form and are positioned transversely on the first moving sheet such that the distance between the products is less than the height of the products; covering the products by an upper second sheet which is separate from the first sheet and continuously moved in the same transport direction and which is aligned substantially plane-parallel to the first sheet, the second sheet being a film; ultrasonic sealing the first and second sheets together near the outer edges of the individual products or grouped products by a sealing device; folding longitudinal sides of the sealed first and second sheets upwards; and separating the products into arrays of multiple, connected products, whereby the folded longitudinal sides enhance rigidity of the arrays, wherein the sealing device comprises sealing ribs extending radially from a rotating drum and extending substantially transversely to the transport direction on one side of the moving sheets, wherein said sealing ribs are being moved at the same speed as the sheets and the sealing ribs extend between the products to seal the first and second sheets together in between the moving products or grouped products, and wherein said second sheet is pre-shaped to fit at least partially around the products or grouped products before the sheet comes into contact with the products or grouped products, wherein at least one suction device is located on said drum between said sealing ribs, wherein said second sheet is pre-shaped by engaging said second sheet with said at least one suction device between said sealing ribs while contacting said second sheet with said sealing ribs, wherein said suction device includes a flexible cup.