Method for operating a dosing device

Abstract

Method for operating a dosing device (10) for dosing liquid and / or pasty products, in particular foodstuffs, which has at least one dosing unit (12) with at least one dosing pump (14) and with at least one switching valve (16) for switching between suction and discharge, and at least one computing unit (18) for controlling and / or regulating the dosing unit (12), characterized in that in at least one measuring step (20) the dosing unit (12) is controlled by means of the computing unit (18) to determine the consistency of the product, wherein in at least one dosing initialization step (22) a parameter set for controlling the switching valve (16) and / or the dosing pump (14) during dosing of the product by means of the computing unit (18) is loaded or generated depending on the data of the measuring step (20).

Description

State of the art

[0001] For example, a method for operating a dosing device for dosing liquid and / or pasty products, in particular foodstuffs, which has at least one dosing unit with at least one dosing pump and at least one switching valve for switching between suction and discharge, and at least one computing unit for controlling and / or regulating the dosing unit, has already been proposed in US 6 450 215 B1 or WO 2011 / 039122 A1.

[0002] Current dosing technology for filling machines typically uses servo drives, which allow for the optimization of filling parameters necessary for an optimal filling process. This optimization is achieved through visual observation of the dosing process by the operator, who then saves the observed parameters in a recipe management system.

[0003] The product range in the food industry is extremely high, with numerous different products being processed on the same filling line, sometimes in very different fill quantities. The products also vary from batch to batch (partly depending on the season) and often even within a single batch. This forces the operator to not only manage a virtually unmanageable number of recipes but also to continuously monitor the production process and make adjustments as needed. Problems frequently arise when starting up a line or changing product types, manifesting as variations in filling accuracy, dripping, spitting from the doser, and consequently, reduced line productivity.

[0004] The object of the invention is, in particular, to provide a generic method for operating a dosing device and a generic dosing device with improved properties with regard to process reliability and ease of use. This object is achieved according to the invention by the features of claim 1 and claims 13 and 14, respectively, while advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention can be found in the dependent claims. Disclosure of the invention

[0005] The invention relates to a method for operating a dosing device for dosing liquid and / or pasty products, in particular foodstuffs, which has at least one dosing unit with at least one dosing pump and with at least one switching valve for switching between suction and discharge, and at least one computing unit for controlling and / or regulating the dosing unit.

[0006] It is proposed that in at least one measurement step, the dosing unit is controlled by the processing unit to determine the product's consistency. In at least one dosing initialization step, a parameter set for controlling the switching valve and / or the dosing pump is loaded or generated by the processing unit, depending on the data from the measurement step. The inventive design of the method enables, in particular, reliable dosing of liquid and / or pasty products. Automated consistency determination can be achieved. Furthermore, a parameter set suitable for the product or its consistency can be advantageously generated for controlling the switching valve and / or the dosing pump. This allows for a significant reduction in the manual setup effort required by the operator.Preferably, the method can, in the first step, provide the operator with simplified options for finding production-reliable settings and / or fully automate the monitoring and determination of the best dosing settings. Furthermore, inline process control at the filling point can be enabled. In addition, inline viscosity measurement without additional measuring devices can be achieved. The method is generally applicable to various servo-controlled dosing devices.

[0007] The dosing device is used in particular for dosing liquid and / or pasty products, and is specifically designed to dispense the product in a defined quantity, especially into a designated sales container. The dosing device may, in particular, comprise one or more dosing units. The at least one dosing unit is, in particular, formed by a metering pump. The dosing unit is used, in particular, for directly dispensing the product into a designated container. The dosing unit preferably comprises at least one metering pump for conveying the liquid or pasty products.

[0008] The metering pump and / or the switching valve is / are servo-controlled. Alternatively, drives without servo drives that deliver a constant force, such as pneumatic drives, would also be conceivable, whereby the acquisition of the motion data can then be implemented using separate measuring systems.

[0009] The metering pump is preferably connected to a tank unit of the metering device via a feed line, in particular an individual feed line. The tank unit comprises, in particular, at least one tank element in which the liquid or pasty product(s) can be arranged. It is also conceivable that the tank unit comprises a plurality of tank elements, with different products being arranged in the individual tank elements, which can be conveyed into containers by means of the metering pump, in order to enable, in particular, so-called sorted filling (ABAB or ABCD). Alternatively or additionally, for multi-layered products or products with different components, a plurality of tank elements and / or a series connection of several metering devices is also conceivable, for example, to enable a pudding with whipped cream topping, which is filled into a cup, or the like.It is also conceivable that each metering pump is assigned a single tank element of the tank unit. Further configurations and / or divisions of the tank unit and the pump units that would appear sensible to a person skilled in the art are also conceivable. Furthermore, at least one metering unit has at least one switching valve for switching between suction and discharge. The switching valve allows, in particular, the pumping direction of the metering pump to be changed. Suction can, for example, serve to temporarily stop discharge, such as when changing containers. It can also prevent dripping.

[0010] A "computing unit" is understood to be, in particular, a unit with an information input, information processing, and information output. Advantageously, the computing unit comprises at least a processor, memory, input and output means, other electrical components, an operating program, control routines, and / or calculation routines. Preferably, the components of the computing unit are arranged on a common circuit board and / or advantageously in a common housing. The computing unit also serves, in particular, to control and / or regulate the switching valve and / or the metering pump. The computing unit serves, in particular, as a servo controller. The computing unit is specifically designed to modify stored parameters in recipe software.Alternatively, in a semi-automated solution, it would also be conceivable to suggest the loaded or generated parameters to the operator for input.

[0011] Preferably, the product's consistency is determined via the dosing unit, and a parameter set for operating the dosing unit with the product is loaded or generated using the data acquired, particularly the servo data. In the measurement step, the control unit preferably directs the dosing unit to execute a measurement sequence, with the dosing pump and / or the switching valve preferably being used to carry out defined processes. The dosing initialization step is performed particularly before or during a dosing process, and in this step, a parameter set for controlling the switching valve and / or the dosing pump is loaded. The dosing initialization step is performed particularly when changing products and / or when a change in the product's viscosity is detected.The parameter set for controlling the switching valve and / or the metering pump is loaded or generated based on the data, particularly measurement data, of the measurement step. This parameter set can either be generated anew each time or selected and loaded from a large number of predefined parameter sets.

[0012] Alternatively or additionally, it would also be conceivable to analyze data from an entire production run and derive optimal parameters for a recipe from this analysis. For example, a parameter could be continuously adjusted depending on environmental and / or process conditions.

[0013] Furthermore, it is proposed that in at least one measurement step, at least one piston stroke of the metering pump is performed, wherein operating parameters, in particular servo data, of the metering pump are recorded by the processing unit to determine the consistency of the filling product. Preferably, the operating parameters are acquired via electronics of the metering pump and / or by means of the processing unit. The metering pump is, in particular, free of additional sensors for direct acquisition of the operating parameters. Preferably, the recording of the operating parameters and / or the entire determination of consistency is carried out without additional sensors for direct acquisition of the consistency. With the piston stroke, the product, in particular new product, is pumped forward or backward, with the operating parameters allowing conclusions to be drawn about the product consistency.As an alternative to servo data, a time / displacement dynamic can also be recorded when a piston drive is subjected to a constant torque. This allows for a simple and advantageous conclusion regarding consistency. Furthermore, it eliminates the need for complex and / or expensive sensors. Additionally, air inclusions can be detected.

[0014] Furthermore, it is proposed that in at least one measuring step, the product is pumped back towards the feed tank. Preferably, the product is pumped back towards the feed tank during at least one piston stroke of the measuring step. It would also be conceivable, in particular, that the product is pumped forward towards an outlet in at least one state, especially during at least one piston stroke of the measuring step. Alternatively, the product can also be pumped via a partially open metering valve of the metering unit into a rinsing plate of the metering device or into a product container to determine the parameters. This can be particularly useful if the product is very sensitive to negative pressure and would be damaged by it. The metering valve is coupled to the switching valve. However, a separate configuration between the metering valve and the switching valve would also be conceivable.It would also be conceivable, in particular, that the metering valve and the changeover valve are coupled with separate actuators. The metering valve and the changeover valve are coupled, in particular, via a common valve stem. The metering valve, in particular, forms part of the changeover valve. Preferably, the metering valve can only be opened when a suction channel of the changeover valve is completely closed. When the changeover valve and the metering valve move together, the metering valve must, in particular, have sufficient sealing overlap. The changeover valve and / or the metering valve, in particular the changeover and metering valve, can be designed, in particular, in various fluid-technical configurations that would appear useful to a person skilled in the art, such as a linear slide valve, in particular horizontal or vertical, a rotary slide valve, in particular vertical or horizontal, or a poppet valve with a control cone.

[0015] This helps to avoid unnecessary product waste. As a result, waste can be kept to a minimum, leading to a significantly higher level of efficiency.

[0016] It is further proposed that, in at least one measurement step, the switching valve is moved to a first measurement position in which a suction channel of the metering unit is maximally open. In this open state, the metering pump is connected, in particular, to the tank unit, specifically to a tank element of the tank unit, with a piston stroke resulting in the product being drawn from the tank unit. With the suction channel open, an outlet, in particular an outlet of the metering valve, is completely closed. A maximally open suction channel corresponds, in particular, to a 100% opening of the suction channel. Alternatively, it would also be conceivable to move the switching valve of the metering unit to a defined position with a reduced intake cross-section. This would provide, in particular, a clear measurement position in which consistency can be determined for all products.Furthermore, with a maximally open suction channel, advantageously large values ​​for the measurement data of the operating parameters can be generated, which can be advantageously differentiated.

[0017] It is further proposed that, in at least one measurement step, a piston of the metering pump completes a full piston stroke at least twice, and in particular at least three times. Preferably, in at least one measurement step, the piston of the metering pump completes a full piston stroke at least twice, and in particular at least three times, while the switching valve is in the first measurement position, in which a suction channel of the metering unit is maximally open. The piston strokes are preferably performed identically. This allows, in particular, several comparable measurement sequences to be carried out. Furthermore, an average value can be calculated using the multiple measurement sequences.

[0018] Furthermore, it is proposed that in at least one test step, the data of the measurement step be checked, and if there is insufficient differentiation, an alternative measurement step be performed. In the alternative measurement step, the switching valve is preferably in a further measurement position in which the suction channel of the dosing unit is not fully open. Preferably, in the at least one alternative measurement step, the piston of the dosing pump completes a full piston stroke at least twice, and in particular at least three times, while the switching valve is in the alternative measurement position in which a suction channel of the dosing unit is only partially open. This allows for a particularly reliable determination of consistency. Furthermore, incorrect parameterization can be advantageously avoided.In particular, an advantageously reliable method for operating a dosing device for dosing liquid and / or pasty products can be provided.

[0019] Furthermore, it is proposed that in at least one dosing initialization step, the measurement step data is compared with stored test data, in particular a lookup table, and a parameter set matching the measurement step data is loaded from the test data for controlling the switching valve and / or the dosing pump. Preferably, the processing unit includes a storage unit, wherein a plurality of parameter sets for controlling the switching valve and / or the dosing pump are stored on the storage unit. The plurality of parameter sets are preferably each linked to test data sets corresponding to the measurement data.In the dosing initialization step, it is specifically checked which test data set the measurement step data matches most closely. The parameter set for controlling the switching valve and / or the dosing pump is then loaded accordingly, and this parameter set is linked to the test data set with the highest match. It would also be conceivable to determine a consistency value from the measurement step data, comparable to a test consistency value of the test data, thus requiring verification of maximum match for a single value. Preferably, in a suitable design of the dosing initialization step, the parameter set is not generated but selected and loaded from existing parameter sets, for example, from a lookup table. This allows for a particularly simple and rapid determination of a suitable parameter set.Furthermore, it is particularly important to avoid generating unsuitable parameter sets for the dosing device. Specifically, a plausibility check of a set parameter set can be dispensed with. In particular, a reliably advantageous method for operating a dosing device for dosing liquid and / or pasty products can be provided.

[0020] It is further proposed that at least one dosing initialization step directly follows the measurement or testing step. Consistency measurement is performed immediately before setting the parameter set and thus before production begins. However, it would also be conceivable to perform further steps between the dosing initialization step and the measurement or testing step, which are specifically directly related to the measurement, testing, or dosing initialization step. This would reliably prevent production with an incorrect parameter set. In particular, a reliably advantageous method for operating a dosing device for dosing liquid and / or pasty products can be provided.

[0021] It is further proposed that the dosing initialization step be followed by a production dosing step in which the switching valve and / or the dosing pump are operated to dose the product during production using the parameter set. The production dosing step is, in particular, a part of the production process. Preferably, in the production dosing step, the product is dispensed, in particular metered, into a designated product container. Dispensing and metering of the product is carried out via the dosing unit, in particular the switching valve and the dosing pump. Specifically, depending on the position of the switching valve, the product is drawn from the tank unit by piston strokes of the dosing pump and dispensed via an outlet of the dosing valve.This allows, in particular, a particularly advantageous and reliable method for operating a dosing device for dosing liquid and / or pasty products to be provided.

[0022] Furthermore, it is proposed that the dosing initialization step be triggered automatically during a production start-up. This initialization step is performed specifically before the actual production process, particularly before the production dosing step. The initialization step, and especially the measurement step, are performed automatically at the start of production, particularly with a new product. This allows for advantageous operation with an optimal set of parameters.

[0023] It is further proposed that standard operating parameters be monitored in at least one production step, particularly continuously, whereby a change in the operating parameters is detected, indicating a product change, and the dosing initialization step is automatically triggered. Preferably, standard operating parameters are monitored in the production dosing step, particularly continuously. The dosing initialization step is therefore triggered automatically during production by monitoring the standard operating parameters and detecting a change. The change in the standard operating parameters occurs particularly due to a change in the product, such as during a tank changeover. This allows, in particular, consistent dosing quality to be maintained throughout the entire production run.In particular, a reliably advantageous method for operating a dosing device for dispensing liquid and / or pasty products can be provided. Furthermore, product changes due to shear can also potentially be detected.

[0024] It is further proposed that the processing unit automatically adjusts the cycle time in the production dosing step depending on the loaded or generated parameter set, in particular the dosing cycle time of the loaded or generated parameter set. The dosing cycle time is specifically dependent on the loaded or generated parameter set, and can be determined anew at each dosing initialization step or already stored as part of the loaded or generated parameter set. The cycle time is specifically determined by the cycle time of the dosing device, and preferably the processing unit can adjust the cycle time of the entire production plant. In particular, by appropriately shortening the dosing cycle time through the selection of a suitable parameter set by the processing unit, the cycle time, and especially the output of the line, can be automatically increased.In contrast, extending the dosing cycle time automatically reduces the cycle rate. This allows for a particularly high level of production efficiency. In particular, manual adjustment of the cycle time is no longer necessary.

[0025] Furthermore, the invention relates to a dosing device with at least one dosing unit for dosing liquid and / or pasty products, in particular foodstuffs, which has at least one dosing pump and at least one switching valve for switching between suction and discharge, and with at least one computing unit for carrying out the method.

[0026] Furthermore, the invention relates to a production plant, in particular a filling plant, with at least one dosing device as described above. The production plant may include further devices and / or units that would appear useful to a person skilled in the art, which can be used for handling products, in particular foodstuffs. The production plant is preferably intended for the manufacture, filling, packaging, and / or repackaging of foodstuffs. In addition to the dosing device, the production plant may have a multitude of further devices and / or units that a person skilled in the art would consider useful, such as a forming device for packaging, a cutting device, a filling device, a sterilization device, a closing device, a repackaging device, a container feeding device, or the like.By means of the design according to the invention, a production plant with an advantageously reliable and easy-to-use dosing device can be advantageously realized.

[0027] The method, dosing device, and production plant according to the invention are not to be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the method, dosing device, and production plant according to the invention may, to achieve a functionality described herein, comprise a different number of individual elements, components, units, and process steps than those specified herein. Furthermore, values ​​within the specified limits of the value ranges stated in this disclosure are also to be considered disclosed and freely usable. Drawings

[0028] Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate an embodiment of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. A person skilled in the art will expediently consider the features individually and combine them into meaningful further combinations.

[0029] They show: Fig. 1 A production plant with at least one dosing device according to the invention in a schematic representation, Fig. 2 a detailed view of the dosing device according to the invention in a schematic representation, Fig. 3 dosing units of the dosing device according to the invention in a schematic representation, Fig. 4 one of the dosing units comprising a switching valve and a dosing pump in a schematic sectional view and Fig. 5 a flowchart of a method according to the invention for operating a dosing device for dosing liquid and / or pasty products. Description of the exemplary embodiment

[0030] Fig. Figure 1 shows a production plant 38 with at least one metering device 10 for metering liquid or pasty products, in particular foodstuffs. The production plant 38 is formed by a filling plant. The production plant 38 is preferably intended for the manufacture and / or processing of products, in particular foodstuffs. The production plant 38 can, for example, be configured as a food packaging machine, a food filling machine, a food production machine, a combination of the aforementioned machines, or the like.

[0031] The production plant 38 may include further devices and / or units that appear useful to a person skilled in the art and which are used for the manufacture and / or processing of products, in particular foodstuffs, such as a sterilization device, a filling device, a closure device, a repacking device, a container feeding device or the like.

[0032] Fig. Figure 2 shows a detailed view of the dosing device 10 for dosing liquid or pasty products, in particular foodstuffs, into containers (not shown in detail here), especially cup-shaped containers. The dosing device 10 comprises at least one dosing unit 12, preferably a plurality of dosing units 12. Each dosing unit 12 has a dosing pump 14 for conveying the liquid or pasty products and each has a switching valve 16 for switching between suction and discharge. The dosing device 10 also includes a processing unit 18. The processing unit 18 is provided for controlling and / or regulating the dosing unit 12.

[0033] In the exemplary embodiment described here, the dosing device 10 comprises, by way of example, eight dosing units 12. However, it is also conceivable that the dosing device 10 comprises a different number of dosing units 12 that would appear sensible to a person skilled in the art, in particular a number that is sensible for a specific application area of ​​the dosing device 10. Preferably, the dosing units 12 are arranged, in particular aligned with one another, in a row on a base element 40 of the dosing device 10 (see Figure 1). Fig. 3) The metering units 12 are preferably fixed to the base element 40 by means of a positive and / or non-positive connection, such as a screw connection, a clamping connection, a snap-fit ​​connection, or the like, and in particular individually fixed to the base element 40. Preferably, the base element 40 comprises at least one opening for a passage of pump discharge nozzles 44 of the metering unit 12 (see Figure 3). Fig. 3) The pump discharge nozzles 44 of the metering unit 12 are preferably individually replaceable and fixed to the metering unit 12. In the embodiment shown here, the base element 40 has a plurality of individual openings, each opening being assigned to a single pump discharge nozzle 44 of a single metering unit 12. However, it is also conceivable that the base element 40 has one opening, in particular a central one, to which several, in particular all, pump discharge nozzles 44 of the metering unit 12 are assigned, and in particular through which all pump discharge nozzles 44 of the metering unit 12 extend. The pump discharge nozzles 44 of the metering unit 12 can all have an identical design or be designed differently. Preferably, the pump discharge nozzles 44 are individually replaceable.The pump discharge nozzles 44 can be designed as a flat valve nozzle, a screw slide nozzle, a rotary slide nozzle, or as any other pump discharge nozzle 44 that would be considered suitable by a person skilled in the art. The base element 40 is preferably arranged on the metering units 12 on a side facing the pump discharge nozzles 44 of the metering unit 12, and in particular fixed thereto.

[0034] The dosing device 10 preferably comprises at least one tank unit 46, which has at least one tank element 48 in which the liquid or pasty product(s) can be arranged. A mixing unit is preferably arranged on the tank unit 46 in a manner known to those skilled in the art. The dosing units 12 are preferably individually connected to the tank element 48 via, in particular, individual feed lines of the dosing device 10. It is also conceivable that the tank unit 46 comprises a plurality of tank elements 48, wherein different products can be arranged in the individual tank elements 48 and conveyed into containers by means of the dosing units 12 to enable multi-layered products or products with different components, such as a pudding with whipped cream in a cup, or the like.In a configuration of the tank unit 46 with a plurality of tank elements 48, each dosing unit 12 is preferably assigned a single tank element 48 of the tank unit 46. Furthermore, it is also conceivable that the dosing unit 12 can be supplied with products individually or collectively via a piping system of the production plant 38, and that the products are stored in remote silos or the like. Other configurations and / or divisions of the tank unit 46 and the dosing units 12 that would appear useful to a person skilled in the art are also conceivable.

[0035] Furthermore, the metering device 10 has a drive unit 50. The drive unit 50 preferably comprises a plurality of drives 52, 54, 56 for driving the metering units 12. The drives 52, 54, 56 can be designed as electric drives, hydraulic drives, pneumatic drives, or other drives that would be considered appropriate by a person skilled in the art. The drives 52, 54, 56 are servo drives. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the drive unit 50 comprises four drives 52, 54, 56, wherein two drives 52, 54 are provided for a piston drive of the metering units 12, in particular the metering pumps 14 of the metering units 12, and two drives 56 are provided for a valve drive of the metering units 12, in particular the switching valves 16 of the metering units 12. However, it is also conceivable that the drive unit comprises 50 individual drives per piston (28) and per switching valve (16).The drive unit 50 preferably comprises one coupling element per drive 52, 54, 56, wherein the respective coupling element connects four drive elements, in particular drive shafts, of the metering units 12 to one another. Preferably, four piston drive shafts of the metering units 12 per drive 52, 54 and four valve drive shafts of the metering units 12 per drive 56 are connected to one another via one of the coupling elements (see figure). Fig. 2) However, it is also conceivable that a separate drive unit 50 is provided for each piston drive shaft and each valve drive shaft in order to implement a separate drive for the respective piston drive shaft and the respective valve drive shaft. The valve drive shafts are each intended to move a valve stem 58 of one of the switching valves 16, in particular axially. The piston drive shafts are each intended to move a piston rod 60 of one of the metering pumps 14 axially. The metering pump 14 and the switching valve 16 therefore have linear drives, such as spindle drives or linear motors.

[0036] The metering units 12 each have a valve housing 64 and a pump housing 62 connected to the valve housing 64. The valve housing 64 defines a valve chamber 66 of the changeover valve 16, in which the valve stem 58 is movably mounted. Furthermore, the valve housing 64 has a product inlet 68, which is connected to the valve chamber 66. A valve outlet 72 is arranged in the valve housing 64 at a lower end of the valve chamber 66. The valve chamber 66 has a constriction which, in at least one operating position of the changeover valve 16, in particular a suction position, overlaps a suction channel 26 in the valve stem 58. In a dispensing position of the changeover valve 16, the constriction is closed. The changeover valve 16 forms, in particular, a metering valve 74, in particular an outlet valve, at one end facing the valve outlet 72.Preferably, the metering valve 74 can only be opened when the suction channel 26 of the changeover valve 16 is completely closed. The suction channel opening has a relatively long opening path that opens linearly over its entire length. The metering valve 74 is designed to close or at least partially open the valve outlet 72, depending on the operating position of the changeover valve 16. The pump housing 62 defines a pump chamber 70 of the metering pump 14, in which the piston 28 and the piston rod 60 are guided and housed. The pump chamber 70, together with the piston 28, defines a variable pumping volume, which is connected to the valve chamber 66 via a channel.

[0037] Fig.Figure 5 shows a flowchart of a process for operating the dosing device 10 for dosing liquid and / or pasty products. The process includes a dosing initialization sequence 78, which is performed particularly at the start of production 76 or when a product change is detected. The dosing initialization sequence 78 is triggered automatically during a production start. A dosing initialization step 22 is also triggered automatically during a production start. This dosing initialization step 22 is performed before actual production, in particular before a production dosing step 34. Both the dosing initialization step 22 and a measuring step 20 are performed automatically at a production start, especially with a new product.Furthermore, in at least one production step 36, particularly during production, standard operating parameters are continuously monitored. Upon detection of a change in these parameters, a product change is inferred, and the dosing initialization sequence 78, specifically dosing initialization step 22, is automatically triggered. During the production dosing step 34, standard operating parameters are continuously monitored. The dosing initialization sequence 78, particularly dosing initialization step 22, is therefore triggered automatically, particularly during production, by monitoring the standard operating parameters and detecting any changes. These changes to the standard operating parameters are caused, in particular, by a product change, such as during a tank changeover.If a change in the standard operating parameters and / or a change in the product is detected, production is stopped in a first process step 80. Subsequently, in a further process step 82, a function is started to determine a parameter set for controlling the switching valve 16 and / or the metering pump 14. This function can be started automatically by a PLC after an automatic intermediate rinse 83, automatically by an inline process monitor, or manually by an operator.

[0038] The procedure includes measuring step 20. Measuring step 20 follows, in particular, the subsequent procedure step 82. Measuring step 20 forms part of the function for determining a parameter set for controlling the switching valve 16 and / or the metering pump 14. In measuring step 20, the metering unit 12 is controlled by the processing unit 18 to determine the consistency of the product.

[0039] In measuring step 20, the switching valve 16 is moved to a first measuring position in which the suction channel 26 of the metering unit 12 is maximally open. In a first sub-step 84 of measuring step 20, the switching valve 16 is moved to a first measuring position in which the suction channel 26 of the metering unit 12 is maximally open. When the suction channel 26 is open, the metering pump 14 is connected to the tank unit 46, in particular to the tank element 48 of the tank unit 46, whereby a piston stroke leads, in particular, to the suction of the product from the tank element 48 or to the pumping back of product already located in the valve chamber 66. When the suction channel 26 is open, the valve outlet 72 is completely closed. A maximally open suction channel 26 corresponds, in particular, to a 100% opening of the suction channel 26. The suction channel 26 is fully open in the maximally open state.The suction channel 26 is located, in particular, at least partially in the valve stem 58.

[0040] Furthermore, in measurement step 20, at least one piston stroke of the metering pump 14 is performed, whereby operating parameters, in particular servo data, of the metering pump 14 are recorded by the processing unit 18 to determine the consistency of the filling product. In a second sub-step 86 of measurement step 20, at least one piston stroke of the metering pump 14 is performed, wherein operating parameters, in particular servo data, of the metering pump 14 are recorded by the processing unit 18 in a third sub-step 88 of measurement step 20 to determine the consistency of the filling product. In measurement step 20, the piston 28 of the metering pump 14 completes a full piston stroke at least twice, and in particular at least three times.In the second sub-step 86 of measurement step 20, the piston 28 of the metering pump 14 completes a full piston stroke at least twice, and in particular at least three times, while the switching valve 16 is in the first measurement position, in which a suction channel 26 of the metering unit 12 is maximally open. The operating parameters are recorded via the electronics of the metering pump 14 and / or by means of the processing unit 18. The metering pump 14 is free of additional sensors for direct acquisition of the operating parameters. Recording of the operating parameters and the entire determination of consistency are performed without additional sensors for direct consistency acquisition. In measurement step 20, the product is pumped back towards a feed tank 24, in particular towards the tank element 48.In the second sub-step 86 of measuring step 20, the product is pumped back towards a feed tank 24, specifically towards the tank element 48, by means of the metering pump 14. The product is pumped back towards the feed tank 24 during at least one piston stroke of measuring step 20. It would also be conceivable that the product is pumped forward towards the valve outlet 72 in at least one state, particularly during at least one piston stroke of measuring step 20. Alternatively, the product can also be pumped via a partially open metering valve 74 of the metering unit 12 into a rinsing plate of the metering device 10 (not shown) or into a product container to determine the parameters. This can be particularly useful if the product is very sensitive to negative pressure and would be damaged by it.

[0041] This is followed by a test step 30. In test step 30, the data from measurement step 20 are checked, and if differentiation is insufficient, an alternative measurement step 32 is performed. If differentiation is possible, the dosing initialization step 22 follows test step 30. In the alternative measurement step 32, the switching valve 16 is in a further measuring position in which the suction channel 26 of the dosing unit 12 is not fully open. Preferably, in the alternative measurement step 32, the piston 28 of the dosing pump 16 completes a full piston stroke at least twice, and in particular at least three times, while the switching valve 16 is in the alternative measuring position in which the suction channel 26 of the dosing unit 12 is only partially open.In the alternative measuring step 32, in particular the second sub-step 86 and the third sub-step 88 of measuring step 20 are repeated, with the switching valve 16 in an alternative position. Test step 30 is then performed again.

[0042] In the dosing initialization step 22, a parameter set for controlling the switching valve 16 and the dosing pump 14 during product dosing by the processing unit 18 is loaded or generated based on the data from measurement step 20. This parameter set is loaded or generated based on the data, particularly measurement data, from measurement step 20 or the alternative measurement step 32. The parameter set can either be regenerated repeatedly or selected and loaded from a multitude of predefined parameter sets.In the dosing initialization step 22, the data from measurement step 20 can be compared with stored test data, in particular a lookup table, and a parameter set matching the data from measurement step 20 for controlling the switching valve 16 and the dosing pump 14 can be loaded from the test data. The processing unit 18 has a storage unit for this purpose, in which a multitude of parameter sets for controlling the switching valve 16 and the dosing pump 14 are stored. Each of these parameter sets is linked to test data sets corresponding to the measurement data. In the dosing initialization step 22, it can be checked which test data set the data from measurement step 20 matches most closely. The parameter set for controlling the switching valve 16 and the dosing pump 14 that is linked to the test data set with the highest match is then loaded accordingly.It would also be conceivable, in particular, to determine a consistency value from the data of measurement step 20, which is comparable to a test consistency value of the test data, so that maximum agreement of a value must be checked. Preferably, in a corresponding design of the dosing initialization step 22, the parameter set is not generated, but selected and loaded from existing parameter sets, for example from a lookup table. The dosing initialization step 22 follows directly after measurement step 20 or test step 30. The loaded or generated parameter set is set as the operating parameter set.

[0043] After the dosing initialization step 22, a further manual inspection step 90 can be performed by the operator to verify the set parameter set by visual inspection and / or weight check. Production can then be started or continued in a start step 92.

[0044] The dosing initialization step 22 and / or the further manual test step 90 is followed by the production dosing step 34, in which the switching valve 16 and the dosing pump 14 are operated to dose the product during production using the parameter set. The production dosing step 34 is, in particular, a part of a production process. Preferably, in the production dosing step 34, the product is dispensed, in particular dosed, into a product container provided for this purpose. Dispensing and dosing of the product is carried out via the dosing unit 12, in particular the switching valve 16 and the dosing pump 14. Depending on the position of the switching valve 16, the product is drawn from the tank unit 46 by piston strokes of the dosing pump 14 and dispensed via an outlet of the dosing valve 74.In production dosing step 34, particularly at the beginning of this step, the processing unit 18 automatically adjusts the cycle time depending on the loaded or generated parameter set, specifically the dosing cycle time of that parameter set. This adjustment primarily affects the cycle time of the entire production plant 38. If the dosing cycle time is shortened by selecting a corresponding parameter set, the processing unit 18 automatically increases the cycle time, and thus the output of the line. Conversely, if the dosing cycle time is lengthened, the cycle time is automatically reduced. It is also conceivable that the cycle time could be adjusted as early as the dosing initialization step 22.

[0045] Production step 36 is carried out during production dosing step 34.

Claims

Method for operating a dosing device (10) for dosing liquid and / or pasty products, in particular foodstuffs, which has at least one dosing unit (12) with at least one dosing pump (14) and with at least one switching valve (16) for switching between suction and discharge, and at least one computing unit (18) for controlling and / or regulating the dosing unit (12), characterized in that in at least one measuring step (20) the dosing unit (12) is controlled by means of the computing unit (18) to determine the consistency of the product, wherein in at least one dosing initialization step (22) a parameter set for controlling the switching valve (16) and / or the dosing pump (14) during dosing of the product by means of the computing unit (18) is loaded or generated depending on the data of the measuring step (20). Method according to claim 1, characterized in that in the at least one measuring step (20) at least one piston stroke of the metering pump (14) is performed, wherein operating parameters, in particular servo data, of the metering pump (14) are recorded by the computing unit (18) to determine the consistency of the filling product. Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that in at least one measuring step (20) the product is pumped back towards a feed tank (24). Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in at least one measuring step (20) the switching valve (16) is moved into a first measuring position in which a suction channel (26) of the metering unit (12) is maximally open. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the at least one measuring step (20) a piston (28) of the metering pump (14) travels at least two times, in particular at least three times, a complete piston stroke. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in at least one test step (30) the data of the measurement step (20) are checked and, in the event of a lack of differentiation, an alternative measurement step (32) is carried out. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the at least one dosing initialization step (22) the data of the measuring step (20) are compared with stored test data, in particular a lookup table, and a parameter set matching the data of the measuring step (20) is loaded from the test data for the control of the switching valve (16) and / or the dosing pump (14). Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one dosing initialization step (22) directly follows the measuring step (20) or the testing step (30). Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dosing initialization step (22) is followed by a production dosing step (34) in which the switching valve (16) and / or the dosing pump (14) are operated to dose the product during production by means of the parameter set. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dosing initialization step (22) is automatically triggered during a production start. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in at least one production step (36), in particular continuously, standard operating parameters are monitored, wherein, upon registration of a change in the operating parameters, a product change is inferred and the dosing initialization step (22) is automatically triggered. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the computing unit (18) in the production dosing step (34) automatically adjusts a cycle number depending on the loaded or generated parameter set, in particular a dosing cycle time of the loaded or generated parameter set. Dosing device with at least one dosing unit (12) for dosing liquid and / or pasty products, in particular foodstuffs, which has at least one dosing pump (14) and at least one switching valve (16) for switching between suction and discharge, and with at least one computing unit (18) for carrying out the method according to one of the preceding claims. Production plant, in particular filling plant, with at least one dosing device (10) according to claim 13.

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