Packaging machine with a grouping device and method for producing single-layer groups of partially overlapping products

A packaging machine with a grouping device comprising:

• a spreading area with a spreading table with a base body and a plurality of support bars adjustable in their transverse spacing, each having at least one row of seats extending in a longitudinal direction, each of the seats for one product,
• at least one transverse drive for adjusting the transverse spacing, for producing a single-layer group having an even or uneven number of rows of products, the products within the group partially overlapping one another as viewed in plan in a transverse direction, and for inserting the group into an outer package,
• wherein the packaging machine further comprises
• a delivery area in which the products are deliverable,
• a feeding area comprising a feeding robot for transferring a feeding set of products from the delivery area to the spreading table,
• a discharge area with a discharge robot for transferring a discharge set of products away from the spreading table directly or indirectly into the outer package,
• wherein
• the plurality of support bars comprise a plurality of double-row support bars and two single-row support bars between two of the double-row support bars, each double-row support bar having two rows of seats which cannot be moved relative to one another in the transverse direction, and each of the
• two single-row support bars being movable relative to one another in the transverse direction, and
• the at least one transverse drive is capable of bringing the two single-row support bars selectively towards one another, or away from one another towards the two of the double-row support bars.