EP2368835B1 - Device for handling containers with height-adjustable insulator - Google Patents

Device for handling containers with height-adjustable insulator Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2368835B1
EP2368835B1 EP11159312.5A EP11159312A EP2368835B1 EP 2368835 B1 EP2368835 B1 EP 2368835B1 EP 11159312 A EP11159312 A EP 11159312A EP 2368835 B1 EP2368835 B1 EP 2368835B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
containers
treatment chamber
wall
channel
ring shaped
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP11159312.5A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2368835A1 (en
Inventor
Hermann Klarl
Roland Laumer
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Krones AG
Original Assignee
Krones AG
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Filing date
Publication date
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Publication of EP2368835A1 publication Critical patent/EP2368835A1/en
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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67C—CLEANING, FILLING WITH LIQUIDS OR SEMILIQUIDS, OR EMPTYING, OF BOTTLES, JARS, CANS, CASKS, BARRELS, OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; FUNNELS
    • B67C3/00—Bottling liquids or semiliquids; Filling jars or cans with liquids or semiliquids using bottling or like apparatus; Filling casks or barrels with liquids or semiliquids
    • B67C3/02—Bottling liquids or semiliquids; Filling jars or cans with liquids or semiliquids using bottling or like apparatus
    • B67C3/22—Details
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67C—CLEANING, FILLING WITH LIQUIDS OR SEMILIQUIDS, OR EMPTYING, OF BOTTLES, JARS, CANS, CASKS, BARRELS, OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; FUNNELS
    • B67C3/00—Bottling liquids or semiliquids; Filling jars or cans with liquids or semiliquids using bottling or like apparatus; Filling casks or barrels with liquids or semiliquids
    • B67C3/001—Cleaning of filling devices
    • B67C3/002—Cleaning of filling devices using cups or dummies to be placed under the filling heads
    • B67C3/004—Cleaning of filling devices using cups or dummies to be placed under the filling heads permanently attached to the filling machine and movable between a rest and a working position
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67C—CLEANING, FILLING WITH LIQUIDS OR SEMILIQUIDS, OR EMPTYING, OF BOTTLES, JARS, CANS, CASKS, BARRELS, OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; FUNNELS
    • B67C7/00—Concurrent cleaning, filling, and closing of bottles; Processes or devices for at least two of these operations
    • B67C7/0073—Sterilising, aseptic filling and closing
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67C—CLEANING, FILLING WITH LIQUIDS OR SEMILIQUIDS, OR EMPTYING, OF BOTTLES, JARS, CANS, CASKS, BARRELS, OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; FUNNELS
    • B67C3/00—Bottling liquids or semiliquids; Filling jars or cans with liquids or semiliquids using bottling or like apparatus; Filling casks or barrels with liquids or semiliquids
    • B67C3/02—Bottling liquids or semiliquids; Filling jars or cans with liquids or semiliquids using bottling or like apparatus
    • B67C3/22—Details
    • B67C2003/228—Aseptic features
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67C—CLEANING, FILLING WITH LIQUIDS OR SEMILIQUIDS, OR EMPTYING, OF BOTTLES, JARS, CANS, CASKS, BARRELS, OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; FUNNELS
    • B67C3/00—Bottling liquids or semiliquids; Filling jars or cans with liquids or semiliquids using bottling or like apparatus; Filling casks or barrels with liquids or semiliquids
    • B67C3/02—Bottling liquids or semiliquids; Filling jars or cans with liquids or semiliquids using bottling or like apparatus
    • B67C3/22—Details
    • B67C3/26—Filling-heads; Means for engaging filling-heads with bottle necks
    • B67C2003/2668—Means for adapting the filling head to various sizes of containers

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an apparatus and method for treating containers according to the preambles of independent claims 1 and 10.
  • the invention will be described with reference to a device for filling containers, in particular with a beverage. It should be noted, however, that the device according to the invention can also be used in other systems for treating containers, such as, for example, sterilization machines and the like.
  • the containers are treated in a clean room or sterile room, for example, filled.
  • the containers are placed in the said clean room to be treated there under sterile conditions.
  • a problem with this treatment is the maintenance of the sterile environmental conditions, in particular when mutually movable wall areas of this treatment room are present.
  • the WO 2007/132339 A1 describes a device for treating containers filled with liquids or powdery products.
  • a carousel is provided on which treatment elements are arranged. These treatment elements are provided within a closed space.
  • the WO 2009/130656 A1 describes a mounting structure for containers, packaging machines and in particular for Be fiscalerverschplier.
  • an insulating housing is provided, which extends around a transport device.
  • the GB 628,530 also describes bottling plants.
  • rotatable holders for the bottles are also provided here, as well as facilities for filling and closing the containers.
  • this apparatus has a sealed against the external atmosphere space whose bottom is formed from a plate, wherein means for metering and distribution are mounted below this plate and the edges of an opening of the plate for the passage of an emptying device for the purpose of attachment to a Distribution device form a rotatable tight connection.
  • the DE 603 11 011 T2 describes a machine for the aseptic treatment of containers in a bottling plant.
  • sealing means are provided for separating a non-germ-free area of the machine from a germ-free conditions held area, said means comprise at least one fixed annular channel which is at least partially filled with liquid in which a concentric rotating member associated ring member slides.
  • the DE 10 2006 007 367 A1 describes a sealing arrangement for sealing a transition between a rotating and a fixed machine element, and a system or apparatus for treating bottles and the like containers with at least one such seal assembly. At least one outflow opening or nozzle for a cleaning and / or sterilizing agent for cleaning and / or sterilizing the sealing arrangement is provided on the sealing arrangement.
  • the DE 10 2006 007 481 B3 discloses a system for the cold aseptic filling of a liquid product into bottles or similar containers with a device according to the preamble of claim 1, and a method according to the preamble of claim 10.
  • the containers are moved on a transport route through at least one container treatment machine in a sterile room separated by an enclosure of at least one non-sterile room is.
  • the enclosure is formed by an at least peripheral and stationary part. At the transition between the two parts a siphon seal is provided.
  • Hydraulic sealing systems are known from the prior art, in particular from the above-mentioned DE 10 2006 007 367 such as DE 603 11 011 known. These are used in particular for container treatment machines, which preferably have a stationary and a rotating rotating machine part in which, for example, plastic containers are transported on the neck ring.
  • container treatment machines which preferably have a stationary and a rotating rotating machine part in which, for example, plastic containers are transported on the neck ring.
  • container treatment machines which preferably have a stationary and a rotating rotating machine part in which, for example, plastic containers are transported on the neck ring.
  • container treatment machines which preferably have a stationary and a rotating rotating machine part in which, for example, plastic containers are transported on the neck ring.
  • container treatment machines which preferably have a stationary and a rotating rotating machine part in which, for example, plastic containers are transported on the neck ring.
  • container treatment machines which preferably have a stationary and a rotating rotating machine part in which, for example, plastic containers are transported on the neck ring
  • a device for treating containers has a treatment space in which the containers are treated. Furthermore, the device has a transport device which transports the containers within the treatment space, wherein the treatment space is separable or separated from an environment of the treatment space by means of at least one first wall such that sterile conditions can be achieved in the treatment space. Furthermore, at least one treatment device is provided, which treats the containers within the treatment space, wherein at least one wall of the treatment space is movably arranged. Finally, a sealing device is provided in order to seal the treatment space in a region with respect to one another of movable elements and in particular walls of the device with respect to the surroundings of the treatment space.
  • the sealing device has a stationarily arranged circumferential annular channel, in which a liquid sealant can be introduced, wherein the wall is at least partially is disposed within this annular channel, and is movable relative to the annular channel in the circumferential direction of the annular channel and wherein the second wall is movable in a direction perpendicular to the circumferential direction.
  • a movement of this wall in the direction perpendicular to the circumferential direction causes a change in the size of the treatment space.
  • the treatment device can be any device which treats the containers, in particular a filling device, but also sterilization devices, rinsing devices, heating / cooling devices and the like, as well as container sealing devices or even labeling devices and other container equipment.
  • filling devices there are no restrictions with regard to filling system (volumetric, mass-dependent, height filling, etc.) or filling product (still / carbonated, etc.).
  • the treatment space has at least two walls, which are movable with respect to each other.
  • the seal is made here in that the wall in particular at any time in the said sealant, which is immersed in the channel and in this way a relative movement of the wall relative to the channel is possible, but in particular gaseous media not from the treatment room to the outside and in particular can not penetrate from outside into the treatment room.
  • the channel is an annular channel which is particularly preferably arranged concentrically with respect to an axis of rotation of the transport device.
  • Such sealing devices which are also known as water locks, are already in use in the prior art.
  • the sealant according to the invention in addition to the relative movement in the circumferential direction of the channel is also a movement perpendicular to this possible.
  • the wall and preferably with it also a part of the device is height adjustable. By this height adjustment, an adaptation of the device can be made to different container heights.
  • the transport device is advantageously designed such that it guides the containers in a region spaced from the mouth of the containers.
  • containers such as PET bottles on their support ring, which is arranged below the mouth, out.
  • the transport of the containers takes place in another area, in particular at a bottom of the containers. This means that the transport device contacts the container at least also at its bottom.
  • a support surface on the container bottom is necessary so that they can be transported by the container treatment machine.
  • the containers are supported during transport at the bottom of the container and clamped, for example, in the area below the mouth.
  • the containers it would also be possible for the containers to be guided in the region of their circumferential wall. If such a system provides for a transport of the containers at its bottom and the product is changed, the height adjustment according to the invention after this product change allows the processing of different container sizes with different heights H1, H2.
  • the device is a filling device which fills the containers with a medium, in particular with a drink.
  • the device advantageously has a multiplicity of filling elements which fill the containers with the medium.
  • other devices such as sterilizers or rinsers would be considered.
  • Applied to the treatment facilities media are preferably spent on a media distribution from the stationary machine base to the rotating machine head.
  • This media distribution device particularly preferably has at least one hollow shaft.
  • the filling elements are arranged with a large part outside the sterile room and only one opening, which is arranged at the mouths of the containers is disposed within the sterile room.
  • the device has cover means to cover the filling elements.
  • Such covering devices are also referred to in the art as CIP caps and are used in particular to cover filling elements during a rinsing process.
  • the transport device has a drive device, which is particularly preferably arranged outside the sterile room.
  • the drive device serves to drive a carrier wheel or a star, on which the containers are guided along a partially circular path.
  • the transport of the containers takes place continuously and more preferably the containers are filled with the beverage during transport.
  • the individual filling devices thus move together with the transport device or the movements are coupled to one another.
  • This carrier wheel on which the transport devices are arranged, is advantageously rotatably mounted via a shaft, in particular a central shaft, by means of a four-point bearing (ball pivot connection).
  • the channel is arranged above a plane of movement of the containers.
  • a lower edge of the channel is arranged above the plane of movement of the containers.
  • the channel is arranged stationarily and the wall disposed within the channel is movable relative to this.
  • the device has a drive device in order to move the wall in the direction perpendicular to the circumferential direction.
  • this drive device is also preferably arranged outside the treatment space.
  • This drive device may be, for example, a spindle drive.
  • a bellows is particularly preferably provided, which is part of said drive means and which serves as protection of the drive means before, for example, cleaning media.
  • the device has a cleaning device for cleaning the treatment chamber.
  • This may in particular be a cleaning device with a spray nozzle system, which in particular serves to treat the walls of the treatment room with cleaning and disinfecting media.
  • this cleaning device also serves to clean the walls of said channel.
  • the device has a fill level measuring device in order to detect a fill level of a liquid medium located in the channel.
  • Water possibly enriched with a disinfectant
  • the fill level measuring device checks the fill level of the water in order, on the one hand, to prevent the channel from spilling over and, on the other hand, to ensure that the said wall constantly dips into the water during operation , Since the wall also moves at a height of the channel, preferably no height-resistant fill level measuring device is provided, but preferably a measuring probe which not only detects a limit value of the fill level, but can actually detect the fill level.
  • the present invention is further directed to a method for treating containers, wherein the containers are guided by means of a transport device within a treatment room and this treatment room is separated by means of at least a first wall to an environment such that in the treatment room sterile conditions are achieved. Furthermore, at least one second wall of the treatment space moves relative to a further region of the treatment space, and by means of a first sealing device, at least the treatment space is sealed in a region relative to each other moving elements of the device relative to the environment of the treatment room.
  • the first sealing device has a circumferential annular channel, within which the second wall, which is arranged at least partially within this annular channel, moves relative to the annular channel in the circumferential direction of the annular channel, at least temporarily a position of this wall in a direction perpendicular to the circumferential direction of the Ring channel stationary direction is changed.
  • this height change takes place in order to adapt the device to different container heights.
  • the containers are transported or guided at their bottom.
  • Fig. 1 shows a device 1 according to the invention for treating containers 10, more precisely for filling containers 10.
  • This has a rotatably arranged liquid tank 44, in which the beverage to be filled is arranged.
  • liquid reaches the individual filling elements 46, which are likewise arranged rotatable relative to the axis of rotation X shown here.
  • a plurality of such filling elements 46 are arranged at the same distance from each other in the circumferential direction, whereby a filling of containers 10 in a continuous stream is possible.
  • Media such as the beverage to be bottled, are available via a media distribution device 7 from the stationary device base to the rotating device top.
  • Lines (not shown) for additional media can be routed through a hollow shaft.
  • the device upper part is mounted on a bearing 9 and can thereby be rotated by drives (not shown).
  • a bearing 9 is advantageously a so-called ball slewing, so a four-point storage used.
  • other types of storage which are known in the art, can be used.
  • the reference numeral 20 designates in its entirety a first sealing device in order to seal a clean room or treatment chamber 2 with respect to the surroundings U.
  • This first sealing device 20 in this case has an annular channel 22, in which a liquid is arranged. This annular channel is arranged stationary.
  • a wall 24 moves in the circumferential direction, which thus constitutes a movable wall of the treatment chamber 2.
  • the wall 8 is movable.
  • the wall 24 dips during filling operation constantly below the liquid surface of the liquid located in the channel 22 a.
  • the wall 25 represents a stationarily arranged wall, which likewise separates the treatment space 2 from the environment U.
  • the reference numeral 10 refers to a container having an orifice 10a.
  • the reference numeral 4 designates here in its entirety the transport device which moves the containers here together with the filling elements 46 on the circular path.
  • Fig. 2 shows a detailed view of the device Fig. 1 , more precisely the right part of the device Fig. 1 in her first working condition.
  • comparatively short containers 10 are filled (with a height H1).
  • a second sealing device 40 can be seen here, which likewise has a (stationary) channel 22 and a (movable) wall 24 immersed therein and which serves to seal the treatment space 2 inwards.
  • the reference numeral 72 denotes a further holding device, with which the container 10 is supported in the upper region thereof.
  • the reference numeral 38 denotes a further annular channel and the reference numeral 36 a therein in turn movable wall.
  • This channel must not be performed here in the same height as the two channels 22, since in a height adjustment of the carrier 48 is not moved. This means that the wall 36 does not move in the height direction H with respect to the channel.
  • the reference numeral 60 refers to a drive, which reaches the height adjustment here.
  • This drive has in this embodiment, a rotary spindle 64 which engages in a corresponding nut and in this way, upon rotation, the filling elements 46 and the other height-adjustable parts moves upward.
  • the reference numeral 62 refers to a bellows surrounding this spindle, which is stretched or compressed depending on the height position, while maintaining the sealing effect against the environment.
  • FIGS. 2 and 3 exemplifies how the containers can be positioned in the device.
  • the containers of a certain height stand on a plate 39.
  • a supply device (not shown), the containers of the device 1 are supplied.
  • the container is positioned via a fixing or holding device 72 under the respective filling valves 46a.
  • the drive 60 for adjusting the height additionally has one or more gear 63 with drive, to which, as mentioned above, the spindle 64 is associated with the bellows 62.
  • the containers 10 shown in the figures usually have heights in a range between 120 and 350 millimeters.
  • Fig. 4 illustrates the cleaning of the first sealing device 20.
  • a CIP cap 76 is pivoted in, so that the interior of the filling valve 46a is closed.
  • this CIP cap 76 is operated by means of a pneumatic cylinder 78, which executes the lifting and pivoting movement 21 in a housing 79.
  • one or more spray nozzles 87, 89 may be arranged on a cleaning strip 85. These spray nozzles are advantageously spray balls. In this case, these spray nozzles 87, 89 should be arranged such that their spray images or areas B cover. However, this can also by an extension and retraction of the height adjustment, as in the FIGS. 2 and 3 be ensured shown.
  • the entire surface of the frame 8 and also of the upper plate 61 can be cleaned.
  • the cleaning system is advantageously designed such that spray nozzles are arranged on the stationary part of the treatment machines and clean the rotating surfaces of the clean room and vice versa also spray nozzles on the rotating part to clean the surfaces of the stationary part of the machine, wherein the rotating cleaning system via a media distribution device 7 (see. Fig. 1 ) can be supplied.
  • a media distribution device 7 see. Fig. 1
  • alkalis or acids are preferably used.
  • a rinse with fresh or sterile water usually a rinse with fresh or sterile water.
  • a germicidal liquid such as. As peracetic acid can be used.
  • FIG. 5 illustrates by way of example the filling of the annular channel 22.
  • a gaseous sterilization it is advantageous if the hydraulic sealing means, ie the channels 22 and 38 are filled in order not to burden the environment or to not endanger operating personnel.
  • Fig. 5 illustrates by way of example the filling of the annular channel 22.
  • a timer is started and the level gauge 52 is overfilled by the predetermined height d2. If the total level d1 falls below the level of the switch or level gauge 52 (eg due to evaporation), overfilling is restarted. In this way it can be achieved that the (in particular annular) wall 24 is always immersed in the liquid 26.
  • a control by means of a level sensor 58 is provided, since the level d1 can be adjusted to the position of the height adjustment 60.
  • a level switch 52 can serve as a safeguard for overfilling or overflow, for example, if the probe 58 is defective.
  • several drains 54 are attached to the channel 22 for emptying.

Landscapes

  • Filling Of Jars Or Cans And Processes For Cleaning And Sealing Jars (AREA)

Description

Die vorliegende Erfindung bezieht sich auf eine Vorrichtung und auf ein Verfahren zum Behandeln von Behältnissen gemäß den Oberbegriffen der unabhängigen Ansprüche 1 und 10.The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for treating containers according to the preambles of independent claims 1 and 10.

Die Erfindung wird unter Bezugnahme auf eine Vorrichtung zum Befüllen von Behältnissen, insbesondere mit einem Getränk, beschrieben. Es wird jedoch darauf hingewiesen, dass die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung auch bei anderen Anlagen zum Behandeln von Behältnissen wie beispielsweise Sterilisationsmaschinen und dergleichen Anwendung finden kann.The invention will be described with reference to a device for filling containers, in particular with a beverage. It should be noted, however, that the device according to the invention can also be used in other systems for treating containers, such as, for example, sterilization machines and the like.

In vielen Bereichen ist es dabei erforderlich, dass die Behältnisse in einem Reinraum bzw. Sterilraum behandelt, beispielsweise befüllt werden. Zu diesem Zweck werden die Behältnisse in den besagten Reinraum eingebracht um dort unter sterilen Bedingungen behandelt zu werden. Ein Problem bei dieser Behandlung stellt dabei die Aufrechterhaltung der sterilen Umgebungsbedingungen dar, insbesondere wenn gegeneinander bewegliche Wandungsbereiche dieses Behandlungsraums vorliegen.In many areas, it is necessary that the containers are treated in a clean room or sterile room, for example, filled. For this purpose, the containers are placed in the said clean room to be treated there under sterile conditions. A problem with this treatment is the maintenance of the sterile environmental conditions, in particular when mutually movable wall areas of this treatment room are present.

Die WO 2007/132339 A1 beschreibt eine Vorrichtung, um Behältnisse, die mit Flüssigkeiten oder pulverartigen Produkten gefüllt werden, zu behandeln. Dabei ist ein Karussell vorgesehen, an dem Behandlungselemente angeordnet sind. Diese Behandlungselemente sind dabei innerhalb eines geschlossenen Raumes vorgesehen. Die WO 2009/130656 A1 beschreibt eine Einbaustruktur für Behälter, Verpackungsmaschinen und insbesondere für Behälterverschließer. Dabei ist auch hier ein isolierendes Gehäuse vorgesehen, welches sich um eine Transporteinrichtung erstreckt.The WO 2007/132339 A1 describes a device for treating containers filled with liquids or powdery products. In this case, a carousel is provided on which treatment elements are arranged. These treatment elements are provided within a closed space. The WO 2009/130656 A1 describes a mounting structure for containers, packaging machines and in particular for Behälterverschließer. Here, too, an insulating housing is provided, which extends around a transport device.

Die GB 628,530 beschreibt ebenfalls Abfüllanlagen. Dabei sind auch hier drehbare Halterungen für die Flaschen vorgesehen, sowie Einrichtungen zum Füllen und Verschließen der Behältnisse.The GB 628,530 also describes bottling plants. In this case, rotatable holders for the bottles are also provided here, as well as facilities for filling and closing the containers.

Aus der DE 2139 057 ist ein Apparat zur aseptischen Konditionierung beliebiger Produkte insbesondere von Nahrungsmitteln bekannt. Dabei weist dieser Apparat einen gegen die äußere Atmosphäre abgedichteten Raum auf, dessen Boden aus einer Platte gebildet wird, wobei Vorrichtungen zur Dosierung und Verteilung unterhalb dieser Platte angebracht sind und die Ränder einer Öffnung der Platte für den Durchtritt einer Entleerungsvorrichtung zum Zweck der Befestigung an einer Verteilungsvorrichtung eine drehbare dichte Verbindung bilden.From the DE 2139 057 is an apparatus for the aseptic conditioning of any products, especially food known. In this case, this apparatus has a sealed against the external atmosphere space whose bottom is formed from a plate, wherein means for metering and distribution are mounted below this plate and the edges of an opening of the plate for the passage of an emptying device for the purpose of attachment to a Distribution device form a rotatable tight connection.

Die DE 603 11 011 T2 beschreibt eine Maschine zur aseptischen Behandlung von Behältern in einer Abfüllanlage. Dabei sind auch hier Dichtmittel zur Trennung eines nicht keimfreien Bereiches der Maschine von einem unter keimfreien Bedingungen gehaltenen Bereich vorgesehen, wobei diese Mittel zumindest einen feststehenden Ringkanal umfassen, der zumindest teilweise mit Flüssigkeit gefüllt ist, in der ein konzentrisches dem drehenden Teil zugeordnetes Ringelement gleitet.The DE 603 11 011 T2 describes a machine for the aseptic treatment of containers in a bottling plant. Here, too, sealing means are provided for separating a non-germ-free area of the machine from a germ-free conditions held area, said means comprise at least one fixed annular channel which is at least partially filled with liquid in which a concentric rotating member associated ring member slides.

Die DE 10 2006 007 367 A1 beschreibt eine Dichtungsanordnung zum Abdichten eines Übergangs zwischen einem umlaufenden und einem ortsfesten Maschinenelement, sowie eine Anlage oder Vorrichtung zum Behandeln von Flaschen und dergleichen Behältern mit wenigstens einer solchen Dichtungsanordnung. Dabei ist an der Dichtungsanordnung wenigstens eine Ausflussöffnung oder Düse für ein Reinigungs- und / oder Sterilisationsmittel zum Reinigen und / oder Sterilisieren der Dichtungsanordnung vorgesehen.The DE 10 2006 007 367 A1 describes a sealing arrangement for sealing a transition between a rotating and a fixed machine element, and a system or apparatus for treating bottles and the like containers with at least one such seal assembly. At least one outflow opening or nozzle for a cleaning and / or sterilizing agent for cleaning and / or sterilizing the sealing arrangement is provided on the sealing arrangement.

Die DE 10 2006 007 481 B3 offenbart eine Anlage zum kaltaseptischen Abfüllen eines flüssigen Füllguts in Flaschen oder dergleichen Behälter mit einer Vorrichtung gemäß dem Oberbegriff des Anspruchs 1, und ein Verfahren gemäß dem Oberbegriff des Anspruchs 10. Dabei werden die Behälter auf einer Transportstrecke durch wenigstens eine Behälterbehandlungsmaschine in einem sterilen Raum bewegt, der durch eine Einhausung von wenigstens einem nicht sterilen Raum getrennt ist. Die Einhausung ist von einem wenigstens umlaufenden und ortsfesten Teil gebildet. Am Übergang zwischen den beiden Teilen ist eine Siphondichtung vorgesehen.The DE 10 2006 007 481 B3 discloses a system for the cold aseptic filling of a liquid product into bottles or similar containers with a device according to the preamble of claim 1, and a method according to the preamble of claim 10. The containers are moved on a transport route through at least one container treatment machine in a sterile room separated by an enclosure of at least one non-sterile room is. The enclosure is formed by an at least peripheral and stationary part. At the transition between the two parts a siphon seal is provided.

Hydraulische Dichtungssysteme sind aus dem Stand der Technik insbesondere aus den oben erwähnten DE 10 2006 007 367 sowie DE 603 11 011 bekannt. Diese dienen insbesondere für Behälterbehandlungsmaschinen, die vorzugsweise einen ortsfesten und einen umlaufenden rotierenden Maschinenteil aufweisen in dem beispielsweise Kunststoffbehältnisse am Halsring transportiert werden. Oftmals bereiten jedoch gerade Behältnisse mit unterschiedlichen Behältnishöhen Schwierigkeiten. Besondere Schwierigkeiten ergeben sich, wenn derartige Behältnisse an den jeweiligen Behältnisböden geführt werden, da sich dann die Behältnismündungen auf unterschiedlichen Höhen befinden und damit der Abstand beispielsweise einzelner Füllorgane bezüglich der Tragfläche der Behältnisse geändert werden muss. Dies ist beispielsweise bei Kunststoffbehältern ohne Halsring besonders problematisch, da diese eine Auflagefläche am Behälterboden benötigen, damit sie durch die Behälterbehandlungsmaschine befördert werden können.Hydraulic sealing systems are known from the prior art, in particular from the above-mentioned DE 10 2006 007 367 such as DE 603 11 011 known. These are used in particular for container treatment machines, which preferably have a stationary and a rotating rotating machine part in which, for example, plastic containers are transported on the neck ring. However, often containers with different container heights cause difficulties. Particular difficulties arise when such containers are guided to the respective container floors, since then the container mouths are at different heights and thus the distance, for example, individual Füllorgane with respect to the support surface of the containers must be changed. This is particularly problematic, for example, in plastic containers without neck ring, since they require a support surface on the container bottom, so that they can be transported through the container treatment machine.

Diese Aufgabe wird erfindungsgemäß durch eine Vorrichtung und ein Verfahren nach den unabhängigen Patentansprüchen 1 und 10 erreicht. Vorteilhafte Ausführungsformen und Weiterbildungen sind Gegenstand der Unteransprüche.This object is achieved by an apparatus and a method according to the independent claims 1 and 10. Advantageous embodiments and further developments are the subject of the dependent claims.

Eine erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung zum Behandeln von Behältnissen weist einen Behandlungsraum auf, in welchem die Behältnisse behandelt werden. Weiterhin weist die Vorrichtung eine Transporteinrichtung auf, welche die Behältnisse innerhalb des Behandlungsraums transportiert, wobei der Behandlungsraum mittels wenigstens einer ersten Wandung derart gegenüber einer Umgebung des Behandlungsraums trennbar bzw. getrennt ist, dass in dem Behandlungsraum sterile Bedingungen erreichbar sind. Weiterhin ist wenigstens eine Behandlungseinrichtung vorgesehen, welche die Behältnisse innerhalb des Behandlungsraums behandelt, wobei wenigstens eine Wandung des Behandlungsraums bewegbar angeordnet ist. Schließlich ist eine Dichtungseinrichtung vorgesehen, um den Behandlungsraum in einem Bereich bezüglich einander beweglicher Elemente und insbesondere Wände der Vorrichtung gegenüber der Umgebung des Behandlungsraums abzudichten.A device according to the invention for treating containers has a treatment space in which the containers are treated. Furthermore, the device has a transport device which transports the containers within the treatment space, wherein the treatment space is separable or separated from an environment of the treatment space by means of at least one first wall such that sterile conditions can be achieved in the treatment space. Furthermore, at least one treatment device is provided, which treats the containers within the treatment space, wherein at least one wall of the treatment space is movably arranged. Finally, a sealing device is provided in order to seal the treatment space in a region with respect to one another of movable elements and in particular walls of the device with respect to the surroundings of the treatment space.

Erfindungsgemäß weist die Dichtungseinrichtung einen Stationär angeordneten umlaufenden Ringkanal auf, in welchem ein flüssiges Dichtmittel einbringbar ist, wobei die Wandung wenigstens abschnittsweise innerhalb dieses Ringkanals angeordnet ist, und relativ bezüglich dem Ringkanal in der Umfangsrichtung des Ringkanals beweglich ist und wobei die zweite Wandung in einer zu der Umfangsrichtung senkrecht stehenden Richtung bewegbar ist. Vorzugsweise wird durch eine Bewegung dieser Wandung in der zu der Umfangsrichtung senkrecht stehenden Richtung eine Veränderung der Größe des Behandlungsraums bewirkt.According to the invention, the sealing device has a stationarily arranged circumferential annular channel, in which a liquid sealant can be introduced, wherein the wall is at least partially is disposed within this annular channel, and is movable relative to the annular channel in the circumferential direction of the annular channel and wherein the second wall is movable in a direction perpendicular to the circumferential direction. Preferably, a movement of this wall in the direction perpendicular to the circumferential direction causes a change in the size of the treatment space.

Innerhalb des Behandlungsraums herrschen damit bevorzugt sterile Bedingungen, welche dadurch aufrechterhalten werden, dass der Behandlungsraum gegenüber der Umgebung abgedichtet ist. Bei der Behandlungseinrichtung kann es sich um jedwede Einrichtung handeln, welche die Behältnisse behandelt, wie insbesondere eine Fülleinrichtung, aber auch Sterilisationseinrichtungen, Spüleinrichtungen, Heiz-/Kühleinrichtungen und dergleichen sowie Behälterverschließeinrichtungen oder gar Etikettiereinrichtunen und andere Behälterausstattungseinrichtungen. Hinsichtlich Fülleinrichtungen bestehen keine Einschränkungen hinsichtlich Füllsystem (volumetrisch, massenabhängig, Höhenfüllung, etc.) oder Abfüllprodukt (still/karbonisiert, etc.).Within the treatment room, sterile conditions prevail, which are maintained by the fact that the treatment room is sealed from the environment. The treatment device can be any device which treats the containers, in particular a filling device, but also sterilization devices, rinsing devices, heating / cooling devices and the like, as well as container sealing devices or even labeling devices and other container equipment. With regard to filling devices, there are no restrictions with regard to filling system (volumetric, mass-dependent, height filling, etc.) or filling product (still / carbonated, etc.).

Dabei bewegt sich erfindungsgemäß wenigstens eine derjenigen Wandungen, welche den Behandlungsraum von seiner Umgebung trennt. Die Dichtungseinrichtung ist vorgesehen, um in dem Bereich, in dem zwei gegeneinander bewegliche Bereiche des Behandlungsraums vorgesehen sind, eine Dichtung des Behandlungsraums gegenüber dem Außenraum aufrechtzuerhalten. Vorzugsweise weist daher der Behandlungsraum wenigstens zwei Wandungen auf, welche bezüglich einander bewegbar sind.In this case, according to the invention, at least one of those walls moves which separates the treatment space from its surroundings. The sealing device is provided in order to maintain a seal of the treatment space with respect to the exterior space in the region in which two mutually movable regions of the treatment space are provided. Preferably, therefore, the treatment space has at least two walls, which are movable with respect to each other.

Die Dichtung erfolgt hier dadurch, dass die Wandung insbesondere zu jeder Zeit in das besagte Dichtmittel, welches sich in dem Kanal befindet eintaucht und auf diese Weise zwar eine Relativbewegung der Wandung gegenüber dem Kanal möglich ist, jedoch insbesondere gasförmige Medien nicht von dem Behandlungsraum nach außen und insbesondere auch nicht von außen in den Behandlungsraum eindringen können. Erfindungsgemäß handelt es sich bei dem Kanal um einen Ringkanal der besonders bevorzugt konzentrisch bezüglich einer Drehachse der Transporteinrichtung angeordnet ist.The seal is made here in that the wall in particular at any time in the said sealant, which is immersed in the channel and in this way a relative movement of the wall relative to the channel is possible, but in particular gaseous media not from the treatment room to the outside and in particular can not penetrate from outside into the treatment room. According to the invention, the channel is an annular channel which is particularly preferably arranged concentrically with respect to an axis of rotation of the transport device.

Im Stand der Technik sind derartige Dichtungseinrichtungen, welche auch als Wasserschlösser bekannt sind, bereits im Einsatz. Bei dem erfindungsgemäßen Dichtungsmittel ist jedoch neben der Relativbewegung in Umfangsrichtung des Kanals auch eine Bewegung senkrecht hierzu möglich. Dies bedeutet, dass die Wandung und bevorzugt mit ihr auch ein Teil der Vorrichtung höhenverstellbar ist. Durch diese Höhenverstellbarkeit kann eine Anpassung der Vorrichtung auf unterschiedliche Behältnishöhen vorgenommen werden.Such sealing devices, which are also known as water locks, are already in use in the prior art. In the sealant according to the invention, however, in addition to the relative movement in the circumferential direction of the channel is also a movement perpendicular to this possible. This means that the wall and preferably with it also a part of the device is height adjustable. By this height adjustment, an adaptation of the device can be made to different container heights.

Vorteilhaft ist die Transporteinrichtung derart ausgebildet, dass sie die Behältnisse in einem von der Mündung der Behältnisse beabstandet liegenden Bereich führt. Üblicherweise werden Behältnisse, wie beispielsweise PET-Flaschen an ihrem Tragring, der unterhalb der Mündung angeordnet ist, geführt. Im Falle dieser Ausführungsform erfolgt jedoch der Transport der Behältnisse in einem anderen Bereich insbesondere an einem Boden der Behältnisse. Dies bedeutet, dass die Transporteinrichtung das Behältnis zumindest auch an seinem Boden kontaktiert. Für Behältnisse, insbesondere Kunststoffbehältnisse ohne einen derartigen Tragring ist üblicherweise eine Auflagefläche am Behälterboden nötig, damit sie durch die Behälterbehandlungsmaschine befördert werden können. So ist es beispielsweise möglich, dass die Behältnisse während des Transports am Boden des Behältnisses abgestützt werden und beispielsweise im Bereich unterhalb der Mündung eingespannt werden. Es wäre jedoch auch möglich, dass die Behältnisse im Bereich ihrer Umfangswandung geführt werden. Falls nun eine derartige Anlage einen Transport der Behältnisse an ihrem Boden vorsieht und das Produkt gewechselt wird, erlaubt die erfindungsgemäße Höhenverstellung nach diesem Produktwechsel die Verarbeitung von verschiedenen Behältergrößen mit unterschiedlichen Höhen H1, H2.The transport device is advantageously designed such that it guides the containers in a region spaced from the mouth of the containers. Usually, containers, such as PET bottles on their support ring, which is arranged below the mouth, out. In the case of this embodiment, however, the transport of the containers takes place in another area, in particular at a bottom of the containers. This means that the transport device contacts the container at least also at its bottom. For containers, especially plastic containers without such a support ring usually a support surface on the container bottom is necessary so that they can be transported by the container treatment machine. Thus, it is possible, for example, that the containers are supported during transport at the bottom of the container and clamped, for example, in the area below the mouth. However, it would also be possible for the containers to be guided in the region of their circumferential wall. If such a system provides for a transport of the containers at its bottom and the product is changed, the height adjustment according to the invention after this product change allows the processing of different container sizes with different heights H1, H2.

Vorteilhaft handelt es sich bei der Vorrichtung um eine Fülleinrichtung, welche die Behältnisse mit einem Medium insbesondere mit einem Getränk befüllt. Dabei weist die Vorrichtung vorteilhaft eine Vielzahl von Füllelementen auf, welche die Behältnisse mit dem Medium befüllen. Es kämen jedoch auch andere Vorrichtungen wie beispielsweise Sterilisationseinrichtungen oder Rinser in Betracht. An den Behandlungseinrichtungen angewendete Medien werden bevorzugt über eine Medienverteileinrichtung vom stationären Maschinenunterteil zum drehenden Maschinenoberteil verbracht. Besonders bevorzugt weist diese Medienverteileinrichtung mindestens eine Hohlwelle auf.Advantageously, the device is a filling device which fills the containers with a medium, in particular with a drink. In this case, the device advantageously has a multiplicity of filling elements which fill the containers with the medium. However, other devices such as sterilizers or rinsers would be considered. Applied to the treatment facilities media are preferably spent on a media distribution from the stationary machine base to the rotating machine head. This media distribution device particularly preferably has at least one hollow shaft.

Dabei ist es möglich, dass die Füllelemente mit einem größten Teil außerhalb des Sterilraums angeordnet sind und lediglich eine Öffnung, welche an den Mündungen der Behältnisse angeordnet wird innerhalb des Sterilraums angeordnet ist. Vorteilhaft weist die Vorrichtung Abdeckeinrichtungen auf, um die Füllelemente abzudecken. Derartige Abdeckeinrichtungen werden im Stand der Technik auch als CIP-Kappen bezeichnet und dienen insbesondere, um Füllelemente während eines Spülvorgangs abzudecken.It is possible that the filling elements are arranged with a large part outside the sterile room and only one opening, which is arranged at the mouths of the containers is disposed within the sterile room. Advantageously, the device has cover means to cover the filling elements. Such covering devices are also referred to in the art as CIP caps and are used in particular to cover filling elements during a rinsing process.

Bei einer weiterhin vorteilhaften Ausführungsform weist die Transporteinrichtung eine Antriebseinrichtung auf, welche besonders bevorzugt außerhalb des Sterilraums angeordnet ist. Vorteilhaft dient die Antriebseinrichtung zum Antrieb eines Trägerrads oder eines Sterns, an dem die Behältnisse entlang einer abschnittsweise kreisförmigen Bahn geführt werden. Vorteilhaft erfolgt dabei der Transport der Behältnisse kontinuierlich und besonders bevorzugt werden die Behältnisse während des Transports mit dem Getränk befüllt. Vorteilhaft bewegen sich damit die einzelnen Fülleinrichtungen gemeinsam mit der Transporteinrichtung bzw. die Bewegungen sind aneinander gekoppelt.In a further advantageous embodiment, the transport device has a drive device, which is particularly preferably arranged outside the sterile room. Advantageously, the drive device serves to drive a carrier wheel or a star, on which the containers are guided along a partially circular path. Advantageously, the transport of the containers takes place continuously and more preferably the containers are filled with the beverage during transport. Advantageously, the individual filling devices thus move together with the transport device or the movements are coupled to one another.

Dieses Trägerrad, an dem die Transporteinrichtungen angeordnet sind, ist vorteilhaft über eine Welle insbesondere eine Zentralwelle mittels eines Vierpunktlagers (Kugeldrehverbindung) drehbar gelagert.This carrier wheel, on which the transport devices are arranged, is advantageously rotatably mounted via a shaft, in particular a central shaft, by means of a four-point bearing (ball pivot connection).

Vorteilhaft ist der Kanal oberhalb einer Bewegungsebene der Behältnisse angeordnet. Besonders bevorzugt ist ein unterer Rand des Kanals oberhalb der Bewegungsebene der Behältnisse angeordnet. Auf diese Weise ist es möglich, dass die Behältnisse leichter der Vorrichtung bzw. dem Behandlungsraum zugeführt werden können, ohne dass sie hierbei mit dem Kanal kollidieren. Vorteilhaft ist der Kanal stationär angeordnet und die innerhalb des Kanals angeordnete Wandung diesem gegenüber beweglich.Advantageously, the channel is arranged above a plane of movement of the containers. Particularly preferably, a lower edge of the channel is arranged above the plane of movement of the containers. In this way, it is possible that the containers can be easily fed to the device or the treatment room, without them colliding with the channel. Advantageously, the channel is arranged stationarily and the wall disposed within the channel is movable relative to this.

In einer weiteren vorteilhaften Ausführungsform weist die Vorrichtung eine Antriebseinrichtung auf, um die Wandung in der zu der Umfangseinrichtung senkrecht stehenden Richtung zu bewegen. Dabei ist besonders bevorzugt auch diese Antriebseinrichtung außerhalb des Behandlungsraums angeordnet. Bei dieser Antriebseinrichtung kann es sich beispielsweise um einen Spindelantrieb handeln. Weiterhin ist besonders bevorzugt ein Faltenbalg vorgesehen, der Bestandteil dieser besagten Antriebseinrichtungen ist und der als Schutz der Antriebseinrichtung vor beispielsweise Reinigungsmedien dient.In a further advantageous embodiment, the device has a drive device in order to move the wall in the direction perpendicular to the circumferential direction. In this case, this drive device is also preferably arranged outside the treatment space. This drive device may be, for example, a spindle drive. Furthermore, a bellows is particularly preferably provided, which is part of said drive means and which serves as protection of the drive means before, for example, cleaning media.

Bei einer weiteren vorteilhaften Ausführungsform weist die Vorrichtung eine Reinigungseinrichtung zum Reinigen des Behandlungsraums auf. Dabei kann es sich insbesondere um eine Reinigungseinrichtung mit Sprühdüsensystem handeln, welche insbesondere dazu dient, um die Wandungen des Behandlungsraums mit Reinigungs- und Desinfektionsmedien zu behandeln.In a further advantageous embodiment, the device has a cleaning device for cleaning the treatment chamber. This may in particular be a cleaning device with a spray nozzle system, which in particular serves to treat the walls of the treatment room with cleaning and disinfecting media.

Vorteilhaft dient diese Reinigungseinrichtung auch dazu, um die Wandungen des besagten Kanals zu reinigen.Advantageously, this cleaning device also serves to clean the walls of said channel.

Vorteilhaft weist die Vorrichtung eine Füllstandsmesseinrichtung auf, um einen Füllstand eines in dem Kanal befindlichen flüssigen Mediums zu erfassen. Vorteilhaft kann in dem besagten Kanal Wasser (ggfs. mit einem Desinfektionsmittel angereichert) angeordnet sein und die Füllstandsmesseinrichtung überprüft den Füllstand des Wassers um einerseits ein Überschwappen des Kanals zu verhindern und andererseits auch zu gewährleisten, dass die besagte Wandung im Betrieb ständig in das Wasser eintaucht. Da sich die Wandung auch in einer Höhe des Kanals bewegt, ist bevorzugt keine höhenfeste Füllstandsmesseinrichtung vorgesehen, sondern bevorzugt eine Messsonde, welche nicht nur einen Grenzwert des Füllstands erfasst, sondern konkret die Füllhöhe erfassen kann.Advantageously, the device has a fill level measuring device in order to detect a fill level of a liquid medium located in the channel. Water (possibly enriched with a disinfectant) can advantageously be arranged in the said channel and the fill level measuring device checks the fill level of the water in order, on the one hand, to prevent the channel from spilling over and, on the other hand, to ensure that the said wall constantly dips into the water during operation , Since the wall also moves at a height of the channel, preferably no height-resistant fill level measuring device is provided, but preferably a measuring probe which not only detects a limit value of the fill level, but can actually detect the fill level.

Die vorliegende Erfindung ist weiterhin auf ein Verfahren zum Behandeln von Behältnissen gerichtet, wobei die Behältnisse mittels einer Transporteinrichtung innerhalb eines Behandlungsraums geführt werden und dieser Behandlungsraum mittels wenigstens einer ersten Wandung derart gegenüber einer Umgebung abgetrennt wird, dass in dem Behandlungsraum sterile Bedingungen erreicht werden. Weiterhin bewegt sich wenigstens eine zweite Wandung des Behandlungsraums gegenüber einem weiteren Bereich des Behandlungsraums und mittels einer ersten Dichtungseinrichtung wird wenigstens der Behandlungsraum in einem Bereich bezüglich einander beweglicher Elemente der Vorrichtung gegenüber der Umgebung des Behandlungsraums abgedichtet.The present invention is further directed to a method for treating containers, wherein the containers are guided by means of a transport device within a treatment room and this treatment room is separated by means of at least a first wall to an environment such that in the treatment room sterile conditions are achieved. Furthermore, at least one second wall of the treatment space moves relative to a further region of the treatment space, and by means of a first sealing device, at least the treatment space is sealed in a region relative to each other moving elements of the device relative to the environment of the treatment room.

Erfindungsgemäß weist die erste Dichtungseinrichtung einen umlaufenden Ringkanal auf, innerhalb dessen sich die zweite Wandung, welche wenigstens abschnittesweise innerhalb dieses Ringkanals angeordnet ist, in der Umfangsrichtung des Ringkanals relativ bezüglich dem Ringkanal bewegt wobei wenigstens zeitweise eine Position dieser Wandung in einer senkrecht zu der Umfangsrichtung des Ringkanals stehenden Richtung verändert wird. Vorteilhaft erfolgt diese Höhenveränderung, um die Vorrichtung auf unterschiedliche Behältnishöhen anzupassen. Besonders bevorzugt werden die Behältnisse an ihrem Boden transportiert bzw. geführt.According to the invention, the first sealing device has a circumferential annular channel, within which the second wall, which is arranged at least partially within this annular channel, moves relative to the annular channel in the circumferential direction of the annular channel, at least temporarily a position of this wall in a direction perpendicular to the circumferential direction of the Ring channel stationary direction is changed. Advantageously, this height change takes place in order to adapt the device to different container heights. Particularly preferably, the containers are transported or guided at their bottom.

Weitere Vorteile und Ausführungsformen ergeben sich aus den beigefügten Zeichnungen: Hierbei zeigen:

Fig. 1
eine Schnittdarstellung einer erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung zum Behandeln von Behältnissen;
Fig. 2
eine Teildarstellung der Vorrichtung aus Fig. 1 in einem ersten Arbeitszustand;
Fig. 3
die Vorrichtung aus Fig. 1 in einem zweiten Arbeitszustand;
Fig. 4
eine Detaildarstellung der Vorrichtung aus Fig. 1 zur Veranschaulichung eines Reinigungsmechanismus;
Fig. 5
eine weitere Detaildarstellung der Vorrichtung aus Fig. 1;
Fig. 6
eine weitere Detaildarstellung der Vorrichtung aus Fig. 1.
Further advantages and embodiments will be apparent from the attached drawings: Hereby show:
Fig. 1
a sectional view of a device according to the invention for treating containers;
Fig. 2
a partial view of the device Fig. 1 in a first working condition;
Fig. 3
the device off Fig. 1 in a second working condition;
Fig. 4
a detailed view of the device Fig. 1 to illustrate a cleaning mechanism;
Fig. 5
a further detail of the device Fig. 1 ;
Fig. 6
a further detail of the device Fig. 1 ,

Fig. 1 zeigt eine erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung 1 zum Behandeln von Behältnissen 10, genauer zum Befüllen von Behältnissen 10. Diese weist einen drehbar angeordneten Flüssigkeitstank 44 auf, in dem das abzufüllende Getränk angeordnet ist. Über Flüssigkeitsleitungen 42 gelangt Flüssigkeit zu den einzelnen Füllelementen 46, welche ebenfalls drehbar bezüglich der hier dargestellten Drehachse X angeordnet sind. Dabei ist eine Vielzahl derartiger Füllelemente 46 in gleichem Abstand zueinander in Umfangsrichtung angeordnet, wodurch eine Befüllung von Behältnissen 10 im kontinuierlichen Strom möglich ist. Medien, wie beispielsweise das abzufüllende Getränk, sind über eine Medienverteileinrichtung 7 vom stationären Vorrichtungsunterteil zum rotierenden Vorrichtungsoberteil lieferbar. Leitungen (nicht gezeigt) für Zusatzmedien, wie beispielsweise elektrischen Strom oder Pneumatikluft, können durch eine Hohlwelle verlegt werden. Das Vorrichtungsoberteil ist auf einer Lagerung 9 gelagert und kann dadurch durch (nicht gezeigte) Antriebe in Drehung versetzt werden. Als Lagerung 9 wird vorteilhaft eine sogenannte Kugeldrehverbindung, also eine Vierpunktlagerung, eingesetzt. Selbstverständlich sind andere Lagerungstypen, die dem Fachmann bekannt sind, einsetzbar. Fig. 1 shows a device 1 according to the invention for treating containers 10, more precisely for filling containers 10. This has a rotatably arranged liquid tank 44, in which the beverage to be filled is arranged. Via liquid lines 42, liquid reaches the individual filling elements 46, which are likewise arranged rotatable relative to the axis of rotation X shown here. In this case, a plurality of such filling elements 46 are arranged at the same distance from each other in the circumferential direction, whereby a filling of containers 10 in a continuous stream is possible. Media, such as the beverage to be bottled, are available via a media distribution device 7 from the stationary device base to the rotating device top. Lines (not shown) for additional media, such as electric power or pneumatic air, can be routed through a hollow shaft. The device upper part is mounted on a bearing 9 and can thereby be rotated by drives (not shown). As a bearing 9 is advantageously a so-called ball slewing, so a four-point storage used. Of course, other types of storage, which are known in the art, can be used.

Das Bezugszeichen 20 kennzeichnet in seiner Gesamtheit eine erste Dichtungseinrichtung, um einen Reinraum bzw. Behandlungsraum 2 gegenüber der Umgebung U abzudichten. Diese erste Dichtungseinrichtung 20 weist dabei einen Ringkanal 22 auf, in dem eine Flüssigkeit angeordnet ist. Dieser Ringkanal ist dabei stationär angeordnet.The reference numeral 20 designates in its entirety a first sealing device in order to seal a clean room or treatment chamber 2 with respect to the surroundings U. This first sealing device 20 in this case has an annular channel 22, in which a liquid is arranged. This annular channel is arranged stationary.

Bezüglich des Ringkanals 22 bewegt sich eine Wandung 24 in Umfangsrichtung, welche damit eine bewegbare Wandung des Behandlungsraums 2 darstellt. Auch die Wandung 8 ist bewegbar. Die Wandung 24 taucht dabei während Abfüllbetrieb ständig unter die Flüssigkeitsoberfläche der in dem Kanal 22 befindlichen Flüssigkeit ein. Die Wandung 25 stellt eine stationär angeordnete Wandung dar, welche ebenfalls den Behandlungsraum 2 von der Umgebung U trennt. Das Bezugszeichen 10 bezieht sich auf ein Behältnis, welches eine Mündung 10a aufweist. Das Bezugszeichen 4 kennzeichnet hier in seiner Gesamtheit die Transporteinrichtung, welche die Behältnisse hier gemeinsam mit den Füllelementen 46 auf der kreisförmigen Bahn bewegt.With respect to the annular channel 22, a wall 24 moves in the circumferential direction, which thus constitutes a movable wall of the treatment chamber 2. The wall 8 is movable. The wall 24 dips during filling operation constantly below the liquid surface of the liquid located in the channel 22 a. The wall 25 represents a stationarily arranged wall, which likewise separates the treatment space 2 from the environment U. The reference numeral 10 refers to a container having an orifice 10a. The reference numeral 4 designates here in its entirety the transport device which moves the containers here together with the filling elements 46 on the circular path.

Fig. 2 zeigt eine Detaildarstellung der Vorrichtung aus Fig. 1, genauer gesagt den rechten Teil der Vorrichtung aus Fig. 1 in ihrem ersten Arbeitszustand. In diesem Arbeitszustand werden vergleichsweise kurze Behältnisse 10 (mit einer Höhe H1) abgefüllt. Man erkennt hier eine zweite Dichtungseinrichtung 40, welche ebenfalls einen (stationären) Kanal 22 und eine darin eintauchende (bewegliche) Wandung 24 aufweist und welche zur Abdichtung des Behandlungsraums 2 nach innen hin dient. An einer Trägerplatte 48, welche Bestandteil der Transporteinrichtung 4 ist, werden die einzelnen Behältnisse 10 gehalten bzw. getragen. Das Bezugszeichen 72 kennzeichnet eine weitere Halteeinrichtung, mit der das Behältnis 10 im oberen Bereich desselben abgestützt wird. Fig. 2 shows a detailed view of the device Fig. 1 , more precisely the right part of the device Fig. 1 in her first working condition. In this working state comparatively short containers 10 are filled (with a height H1). A second sealing device 40 can be seen here, which likewise has a (stationary) channel 22 and a (movable) wall 24 immersed therein and which serves to seal the treatment space 2 inwards. On a support plate 48, which is part of the transport device 4, the individual containers 10 are held or carried. The reference numeral 72 denotes a further holding device, with which the container 10 is supported in the upper region thereof.

Das Bezugszeichen 38 kennzeichnet einen weiteren Ringkanal und das Bezugszeichen 36 eine darin eintauchende wiederum bewegliche Wandung. Dieser Kanal muss hier nicht in der gleichen Höhe ausgeführt sein, wie die beiden Kanäle 22, da bei einer Höhenverstellung der Träger 48 nicht bewegt wird. Dies bedeutet, dass sich die Wandung 36 gegenüber dem Kanal nicht in der Höhenrichtung H bewegt.The reference numeral 38 denotes a further annular channel and the reference numeral 36 a therein in turn movable wall. This channel must not be performed here in the same height as the two channels 22, since in a height adjustment of the carrier 48 is not moved. This means that the wall 36 does not move in the height direction H with respect to the channel.

Falls nun eine Umstellung auf größere bzw. höhere Behältnisse 10 (Höhe H2) erfolgt, wird der obere Bereich der Anlage nach oben gehoben, d.h. die beiden Wandungen 24 bewegen sich nach oben, sowie auch beispielsweise die Füllelemente 46 und die Zuleitungen 42. Auf diese Weise verschieben sich die Wandungen 24 weiter nach oben, jedoch nur so weit, dass sie immer noch in die Flüssigkeit in dem Ringkanal 22 eintauchen.If now a change to larger or higher containers 10 (height H2), the upper portion of the system is lifted upwards, ie, the two walls 24 move upwards, as well as, for example, the filling elements 46 and the leads 42. Auf In this way, the walls 24 continue to move upwards, but only so far that they still dive into the liquid in the annular channel 22.

Das Bezugszeichen 60 bezieht sich auf einen Antrieb, der hier die Höhenverstellung erreicht. Dieser Antrieb weist bei dieser Ausführungsform eine Drehspindel 64 auf, die in eine entsprechende Mutter eingreift und auf diese Weise bei Drehung die Füllelemente 46 und die anderen höhenverstellbaren Teile nach oben bewegt. Das Bezugszeichen 62 bezieht sich dabei auf einen diese Spindel umgebenden Faltenbalg, der je nach Höhenstellung gedehnt oder gestaucht wird, dabei jedoch die Dichtwirkung gegenüber der Umgebung beibehält.The reference numeral 60 refers to a drive, which reaches the height adjustment here. This drive has in this embodiment, a rotary spindle 64 which engages in a corresponding nut and in this way, upon rotation, the filling elements 46 and the other height-adjustable parts moves upward. The reference numeral 62 refers to a bellows surrounding this spindle, which is stretched or compressed depending on the height position, while maintaining the sealing effect against the environment.

Damit zeigen die Figuren 2 und 3 beispielhaft, wie die Behältnisse in der Vorrichtung positioniert werden können. Die Behältnisse mit einer bestimmten Höhe stehen auf einem Teller 39. Über eine Zufuhrvorrichtung (nicht gezeigt) werden die Behältnisse der Vorrichtung 1 zugeführt. Eine Möglichkeit, wie derartige Behältnisse durch mehrere Behandlungsvorrichtungen befördert werden, ergibt sich beispielsweise aus der DE 69 937 227 T2 .This shows the FIGS. 2 and 3 exemplifies how the containers can be positioned in the device. The containers of a certain height stand on a plate 39. Via a supply device (not shown), the containers of the device 1 are supplied. One way in which such containers are transported through a plurality of treatment devices, for example, results from the DE 69 937 227 T2 ,

Wie gesagt wird bei der hier gezeigten Ausführungsform das Behältnis über eine Fixierung bzw. Halteeinrichtung 72 unter den jeweiligen Füllventilen 46a positioniert. Mittels eines Bleches 47 kann zudem das Schieben über die gewünschte Position hinaus verhindert werden. Der Antrieb 60 zur Verstellung der Höhe weist zusätzlich ein oder mehrere Getriebe 63 mit Antrieb auf, denen wie oben erwähnt die Spindel 64 mit dem Faltenbalg 62 zugeordnet ist. Die in den Figuren dargestellten Behältnisse 10 weisen üblicherweise Höhen in einem Bereich zwischen 120 und 350 Millimetern auf.As mentioned, in the embodiment shown here, the container is positioned via a fixing or holding device 72 under the respective filling valves 46a. By means of a sheet 47, moreover, pushing past the desired position can be prevented. The drive 60 for adjusting the height additionally has one or more gear 63 with drive, to which, as mentioned above, the spindle 64 is associated with the bellows 62. The containers 10 shown in the figures usually have heights in a range between 120 and 350 millimeters.

Fig. 4 veranschaulicht die Reinigung der ersten Dichteinrichtung 20. Während der Reinigung ist eine CIP-Kappe 76 eingeschwenkt, sodass das Innere des Füllventils 46a verschlossen ist. Dabei wird diese CIP-Kappe 76 mittels eines Pneumatikzylinders 78 betrieben, der die Hub- und Schwenkbewegung 21 in einem Gehäuse 79 ausführt. Fig. 4 illustrates the cleaning of the first sealing device 20. During cleaning, a CIP cap 76 is pivoted in, so that the interior of the filling valve 46a is closed. In this case, this CIP cap 76 is operated by means of a pneumatic cylinder 78, which executes the lifting and pivoting movement 21 in a housing 79.

An einer Reinigungsleiste 85 können eine oder mehrere Sprühdüsen 87, 89 angeordnet sein. Bei diesen Sprühdüsen handelt es sich vorteilhaft um Sprühkugeln. Dabei sollten diese Sprühdüsen 87, 89 derart angeordnet sein, dass sich deren Sprühbilder bzw. Bereiche B überdecken. Dies kann jedoch auch durch ein Ein- und Ausfahren der Höhenverstellung, wie in den Figuren 2 und 3 gezeigt gewährleistet werden.On a cleaning strip 85, one or more spray nozzles 87, 89 may be arranged. These spray nozzles are advantageously spray balls. In this case, these spray nozzles 87, 89 should be arranged such that their spray images or areas B cover. However, this can also by an extension and retraction of the height adjustment, as in the FIGS. 2 and 3 be ensured shown.

Setzt man zusätzlich die Behandlungsvorrichtung in Rotation, so kann die gesamte Fläche der Zarge 8 und auch des oberen Bleches 61 gereinigt werden.If, in addition, the treatment device is set in rotation, then the entire surface of the frame 8 and also of the upper plate 61 can be cleaned.

Durch eine geeignete Positionierung von weiteren Sprühdüsen können so alle Flächen des Behandlungsraums 2 gereinigt werden. Das Reinigungssystem ist vorteilhaft derart ausgeführt, dass Sprühdüsen am stehenden Teil der Behandlungsmaschinen angeordnet sind und die rotierenden Flächen des Reinraums reinigen und umgekehrt auch Sprühdüsen am rotierenden Teil die Flächen des stehenden Teils der Maschine reinigen, wobei das rotierende Reinigungssystem über eine Medienverteileinrichtung 7 (vgl. Fig. 1) versorgt werden kann. Zur Reinigung werden vorzugsweise Laugen oder Säuren verwendet. In einem letzten Schritt erfolgt üblicherweise eine Spülung mit Frisch- oder Sterilwasser.By suitable positioning of further spray nozzles, all surfaces of the treatment space 2 can be cleaned. The cleaning system is advantageously designed such that spray nozzles are arranged on the stationary part of the treatment machines and clean the rotating surfaces of the clean room and vice versa also spray nozzles on the rotating part to clean the surfaces of the stationary part of the machine, wherein the rotating cleaning system via a media distribution device 7 (see. Fig. 1 ) can be supplied. For cleaning, alkalis or acids are preferably used. In a last step, usually a rinse with fresh or sterile water.

Während dieses Vorgangs wäre es möglich, dass in den Kanälen 22, 38 keine oder nur teilweise Flüssigkeit vorhanden ist. Anstelle dessen kann eine keimabtötende Flüssigkeit wie z. B. Peressigsäure verwendet werden.During this process, it would be possible that no or only partial liquid is present in the channels 22, 38. Instead, a germicidal liquid such as. As peracetic acid can be used.

Unter Bezugnahme auf die Figuren 5 und 6 wird nunmehr veranschaulicht, wie das oben beschriebene Reinigungssystem auch verwendet werden kann um eine Reinraumsterilisation durchzuführen. Über das Rohrleitungssystem kann in diesem Falle entweder flüssiges oder gasförmiges Sterilisationsmedium zugeführt werden. Bei Verwendung einer gasförmigen Sterilisation ist es vorteilhaft, wenn die hydraulischen Dichtungseinrichtungen, d.h. die Kanäle 22 und 38 gefüllt sind, um die Umgebung nicht zu belasten bzw. um Bedienungspersonal nicht zu gefährden. Fig. 5 veranschaulicht beispielhaft das Befüllen des Ringkanals 22. Über mindestens einen Zulauf 54 wird Flüssigkeit in den ringförmigen Kanal 22 befördert. Erreicht die Flüssigkeit einen Füllstandsmesser 52, so wird ein Zeitgeber gestartet und der Füllstandsmesser 52 um die vorgegebene Höhe d2 überfüllt. Fällt der Gesamtpegel d1 (z.B. durch Verdunstung) unter das Niveau des Schalters bzw. Füllstandsmessers 52, wird die Überfüllung erneut gestartet. Auf diese Weise kann erreicht werden, dass die (insbesondere ringförmige) Wandung 24 immer in die Flüssigkeit 26 eingetaucht ist.With reference to the FIGS. 5 and 6 It will now be illustrated how the cleaning system described above can also be used to perform a clean room sterilization. In this case, either liquid or gaseous sterilization medium can be supplied via the pipeline system. When using a gaseous sterilization, it is advantageous if the hydraulic sealing means, ie the channels 22 and 38 are filled in order not to burden the environment or to not endanger operating personnel. Fig. 5 illustrates by way of example the filling of the annular channel 22. Via at least one inlet 54, liquid is conveyed into the annular channel 22. When the liquid reaches a level gauge 52, a timer is started and the level gauge 52 is overfilled by the predetermined height d2. If the total level d1 falls below the level of the switch or level gauge 52 (eg due to evaporation), overfilling is restarted. In this way it can be achieved that the (in particular annular) wall 24 is always immersed in the liquid 26.

Diese dargestellte Regelung eignet sich gut für hydraulische Dichtungssysteme ohne Höhenverstellung und bedingt auch für Dichtungseinrichtungen mit Höhenverstellung. Wie sich jedoch aus Fig. 6 ergibt, muss der Füllstandsgrenzschalter 52 für relativ hohe Behälter hoch angeordnet sein, da sonst eine Unterfüllung durch den Füllstandsschalter 52 nicht mehr sicher erkannt werden kann. Dies hat zur Folge, dass bei jeder Stellung der Höhenverstellung 60 (vgl. Fig. 2 und 3) der Kanal 22 bis auf die Höhe d1 wie in Fig. 6 gefüllt werden muss.This illustrated control is well suited for hydraulic sealing systems without height adjustment and also requires sealing devices with height adjustment. As it turned out Fig. 6 results, the level limit switch 52 must be arranged high for relatively high container, otherwise underfill can no longer be reliably detected by the level switch 52. This has the consequence that at each position of the height adjustment 60 (see. FIGS. 2 and 3 ) the channel 22 up to the height d1 as in Fig. 6 has to be filled.

Auf diese Weise steigt jedoch der Verbrauch an Flüssigkeit 26 zur Füllung und die Gefahr des Überschwappens bei eingetauchter Wandung 24 steigt ebenfalls. Vorteilhaft ist daher eine Regelung mittels einer Füllstandssonde 58 vorgesehen, da der Pegel d1 auf die Lage der Höhenverstellung 60 eingestellt werden kann. Zusätzlich kann ein Füllstandschalter 52 als Absicherung für Überfüllung bzw. Überlauf dienen, falls beispielsweise die Sonde 58 defekt ist. Vorteilhaft sind an dem Kanal 22 mehrere Abläufe 54 zum Entleeren angebracht.In this way, however, the consumption of liquid 26 to the filling increases and the risk of over-sloshing when immersed wall 24 also increases. Advantageously, therefore, a control by means of a level sensor 58 is provided, since the level d1 can be adjusted to the position of the height adjustment 60. In addition, a level switch 52 can serve as a safeguard for overfilling or overflow, for example, if the probe 58 is defective. Advantageously, several drains 54 are attached to the channel 22 for emptying.

BezugszeichenlisteLIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

11
Vorrichtungcontraption
22
Behandlungsraumtreatment room
44
Transporteinrichtungtransport means
77
MedienverteileinrichtungMedia distribution facility
88th
Wandung, ZargeWall, frame
99
Lagerungstorage
1010
Behältniscontainer
10a10a
Mündungmuzzle
2020
erste Dichtungseinrichtungfirst sealing device
2121
Hub- und SchwenkbewegungLifting and pivoting movement
2222
Ringkanalannular channel
2424
Wandungwall
2525
Wandungwall
2626
Flüssigkeitliquid
3030
Hohlwellehollow shaft
3636
bewegliche Wandungmovable wall
3838
Ringkanalannular channel
3939
TellerPlate
4040
Dichtungseinrichtungseal means
4242
Flüssigkeitsleitungliquid line
4444
Flüssigkeitstankliquid tank
4646
Füllelementfiller
46a46a
Füllventilfilling valve
4747
Blechsheet
4848
Trägerplattesupport plate
5252
Füllstandsmesser, FüllstandsgrenzschalterLevel gauge, level limit switch
5454
Zulauf, AbläufeInlet, drains
5858
Füllstandssondelevel probe
6060
Antrieb, HöhenverstellungDrive, height adjustment
6161
Blechsheet
6262
Faltenbalgbellow
6363
Getriebetransmission
6464
Drehspindelspindle
7272
Halteeinrichtung, FixierungHolding device, fixation
7676
CIP-KappeCIP cap
7878
Pneumatikzylinderpneumatic cylinder
7979
Gehäusecasing
8585
Reinigungsleistecleaning strip
87,8987.89
Sprühdüsenspray nozzles
BB
Bereicheareas
d1d1
Gesamtpegeloverall level
d2d2
Höheheight
HH
Höhenrichtungheight direction
H1H1
Behältnishöhecontainer height
H2H2
Behältnishöhecontainer height
NN
Füllstandlevel
UU
UmgebungSurroundings
XX
Drehachseaxis of rotation

Claims (10)

  1. An apparatus (1) for treating containers, comprising a treatment chamber (2) in which the containers (10) are treated, including a conveyor unit (4) which transports the containers (10) within the treatment chamber (2), wherein the treatment chamber can be isolated by means of at least one first wall (8) from an environment of the treatment chamber in such a way that sterile conditions can be achieved in the treatment chamber, and by means of at least one treatment unit (46) which treats the containers (10) within the treatment chamber (2), wherein at least one second wall (24) of the treatment chamber is arranged to be movable, and including sealing means (20) in order to seal the treatment chamber (2) in an area with regard to elements of the apparatus, which are movable relative to each other, against the environment of the treatment chamber (2), characterised in that the sealing means (20) have a surrounding ring shaped channel (22), into which a liquid sealing agent can be introduced, wherein the second wall (24) which is arranged within said ring shaped channel (22) at least in sections, and is movable relative to the channel (22) in the circumferential direction of the ring shaped channel, with the wall (24) being also movable in a direction (H) that is perpendicular to the circumferential direction.
  2. The device as claimed in Claim 1, characterised in that the conveyor unit (4) is formed in such a way that it guides the containers in an area located at a distance from the mouth (10a) of the containers (10).
  3. The apparatus as claimed in at least one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the apparatus (1) is a filling unit which fills the containers (10) with a medium.
  4. The apparatus as claimed in Claim 3, characterised in that the apparatus has a plurality of filling elements which fill the containers (10) with the medium.
  5. The apparatus as claimed in at least one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the apparatus has second sealing means (40) in order to seal the treatment chamber (2) in an area of elements of the apparatus, which are movable relative to each other, against the environment (U) of the treatment chamber (2).
  6. The apparatus as claimed in at least one of the preceding claims, characterised in that a drive unit of the conveyor unit (4) is arranged outside of the treatment chamber (2).
  7. The apparatus as claimed in at least one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the ring shaped channel (22) is located above a movement level of the containers (10).
  8. The apparatus as claimed in at least one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the apparatus (1) includes a drive unit (60) in order to move the second wall in the direction that is perpendicular to the circumferential direction and that this drive unit is arranged outside of the treatment chamber.
  9. The apparatus as claimed in at least one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the apparatus includes a filling level detection device (52, 58), in order to detect a filling level (N) of a medium present in the channel.
  10. A method for treating containers (10), wherein the containers (10) are guided within a treatment chamber (2) by means of a conveyor unit (4) and this treatment chamber (2) is isolated from an environment by means of at least one first wall, in that sterile conditions can be achieved in the treatment chamber (2), wherein at least one second wall (24) of the treatment chamber (2) is moved relative to a further area of the treatment chamber (2) and at least the treatment chamber (2) is sealed by means of first sealing means (20) in an area of elements of the apparatus, which are movable relative to each other, against the environment of the treatment chamber (2), characterised in that the first sealing means (20) include a stationary arranged surrounding ring shaped channel (22), within which the second wall (24) which is at least in sections arranged in the interior of the surrounding ring shaped cahnnel (22) moves in the circumferential direction of the surrounding ring shaped channel (22) relative to the surrounding ring shaped channel (22), wherein a position of this wall (24) is modified at least temporarily in a direction (H) that is perpendicular to the circumferential direction of the channel.
EP11159312.5A 2010-03-26 2011-03-23 Device for handling containers with height-adjustable insulator Active EP2368835B1 (en)

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DE102010013132A DE102010013132A1 (en) 2010-03-26 2010-03-26 Apparatus for treating containers with height-adjustable isolator

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EP2368835B1 true EP2368835B1 (en) 2013-07-24

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EP (1) EP2368835B1 (en)
CN (1) CN102198923B (en)
DE (1) DE102010013132A1 (en)

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DE102010013132A1 (en) 2011-09-29
CN102198923A (en) 2011-09-28
US8857478B2 (en) 2014-10-14
EP2368835A1 (en) 2011-09-28
CN102198923B (en) 2014-10-29
US20110232233A1 (en) 2011-09-29

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