Device and method for furnishing containers

Abstract

The invention relates to, inter alia, a device (10) for furnishing containers (12), preferably with labels, printed matter and / or laser markings. The device (10) has a planar motor drive system (18) with a control device (32), a base element (20) and multiple movement devices (22, 24) which can be driven individually by means of magnetic interaction with the base element (20) and can be moved independently of one another in relation to the base element (20). The multiple movement devices (22, 24) have multiple container movement devices (22), which are designed to transport the containers (12), and / or multiple furnishing movement devices (24), which are designed to furnish the containers (12), preferably with labels, printed matter and / or laser markings.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] Device and method for equipping containers

[0003] Technical field

[0004] The invention relates to a device and a method for equipping, preferably labeling, printing and / or laser marking, containers.

[0005] Technical background

[0006] In container treatment plants, containers can be equipped with labels, for example. Traditionally, the containers can be transported by a rotary conveyor and labeled while standing on individually driven turntables of the conveyor in the application area. The labels can be applied to the containers by at least one stationary labeling unit located around the circumference of the rotary conveyor.

[0007] The invention is based on the objective of creating an improved device for equipping containers. Preferably, the improved device should be particularly flexible and, for example, eliminate the need for conventional components.

[0008] Summary of the invention

[0009] The problem is solved by the features of the independent apparatus claim and the features of the independent method claim. Advantageous further developments are specified in the dependent claims and the description.

[0010] One aspect concerns a device for equipping, preferably labeling, printing, and / or laser marking, containers. The device comprises a planar motor drive system with a control unit, a base element, and several motion devices that can be individually driven by means of magnetic interaction with the base element and are movable independently of one another with respect to the base element. The multiple motion devices include at least one of the following: several container motion devices designed for transporting the containers, and several equipment motion devices designed for equipping, preferably labeling, printing, and / or laser marking, the containers. Advantageously, the device enables particularly flexible container equipping in every respect.The paths and number of movement devices can be easily and flexibly adapted to the respective requirements, in particular a desired performance, a current container format and a current label type.

[0011] A particularly desirable feature is the ability to make simple adjustments "at the push of a button," which the control unit can automatically translate into corresponding operating commands for the planar motor drive system. This also allows for easy changes in container format and / or label type, preferably "at the push of a button."

[0012] In one embodiment, the base element is oriented horizontally or substantially horizontally. Advantageously, the paths of the movement devices can thus be flexibly adapted in a horizontal plane, making container format changes and label type changes relatively easy to implement. Preferably, in such a design, container transport also takes place in a horizontal plane if only the option of "multiple equipment movement devices designed for equipping the containers" applies.

[0013] In another embodiment, the multiple equipment movement devices are designed to transport labels for labeling the containers. Alternatively or additionally, the multiple equipment movement devices can each have at least one label holder (e.g., designed as a gripper finger or receiving pad) for holding a label. Advantageously, the equipment movement devices can thus flexibly label the containers. Furthermore, a flexible changeover of the label type during operation is advantageously possible.

[0014] In addition to the aforementioned options of labeling, printing, and laser marking, the term "equipment" can also include, alternatively or additionally, the application of an adhesive to the container. This adhesive can either be used to bond containers together to create bundles, or to apply a coating to the container for subsequent labeling, preferably at the point where the label will later be affixed.

[0015] An equipment moving device can, for example, replenish an adhesive from a stationary source before each fitting operation, or even have a tank containing an adhesive. Generally speaking, an equipment moving device can have a tank for any type of media used for fitting.

[0016] For example, a device for moving equipment can have an ink tank and a printhead (in particular an inkjet printhead) for supplying one or preferably at least two containers. For example, a device for moving equipment can have multiple ink tanks, for instance, for multiple colors. Alternatively, the different colors could be distributed across multiple devices for moving equipment, e.g., one device for moving equipment with a tank exclusively for cyan, one device for moving equipment with a tank exclusively for magenta, and so on.

[0017] As an alternative to the tank, the equipment movement devices can be connected to a stationary storage unit for the media via a flexible supply hose.

[0018] Electrical energy for operating printheads or adhesive nozzles, or for moving elements (e.g., label holders) on or at the equipment movement devices, can be transferred inductively to the equipment movement devices via the base element, for example.

[0019] In one embodiment, the device is free of individually driven rotary tables for rotating the containers. Alternatively or additionally, the containers can be rotated about their own vertical axis by a common drive during the loading process. Advantageously, this significantly simplifies the conventional design (e.g., eliminating the need for conventional rotary table motors) while still enabling the desired rotation of the containers during loading.

[0020] In a further embodiment, the device also includes a container conveyor, preferably a rotary or linear container conveyor, for conveying the containers. Preferably, the container conveyor can have a mechanical control system, preferably comprising a stationary control cam, configured to rotate the containers about their own vertical axis during the loading process. Preferably, the container conveyor is free of individually driven rotary tables for individual container rotation. Alternatively or additionally, the control system can, for example, be configured to operate the multiple loading motion devices by means of magnetic interaction with the base element, enabling them to move along with the containers being loaded by the container conveyor during the loading process.This also has the advantage of significantly simplifying the conventional setup while still allowing for a desirable rotation of the containers during the fitting-out process.

[0021] In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to operate the multiple container motion devices by means of magnetic interaction with the base element, rotating them preferably about their own vertical axis, preferably during at least one of the following: equipping the containers; receiving the containers (e.g., from an infeed conveyor); transferring the containers (e.g., to an outfeed conveyor); inspecting the containers (e.g., using a camera device); and marking the containers (e.g., using a marking device). Advantageously, the mobility of the motion devices made possible by the planar drive system can thus be used to improve the handling and equipping of the containers.

[0022] In another embodiment, the control unit is configured to operate the multiple equipment motion devices by means of magnetic interaction with the base element, preferably rotating them about their own vertical axis, preferably during at least one of the following processes: equipping the containers; picking up labels (e.g., from a label magazine or a cutting device); and picking up adhesive (e.g., from a glue roller or, more generally, from an adhesive application device). Advantageously, the mobility of the motion devices made possible by the planar drive system can thus be used to improve label handling and container labeling.

[0023] It is possible that the movement paths of equipment moving devices and container moving devices may intersect or partially overlap on the same base element. From a control engineering perspective, this can be implemented, for example, in such a way that collisions do not occur.

[0024] The basic element can, for example, include coils which, through the use of an electric current, can move or accelerate the equipment-moving devices and / or container-moving devices, preferably comprising permanent magnets, or generally exert a force on them. It is possible that the same coil of the basic element can successively exert a force on both the equipment-moving devices and the container-moving devices.

[0025] In one embodiment, the basic element extends continuously from a label receiving area, in which labels can be received from the equipment movement devices (e.g., from at least one label magazine or from a cutting station), to a label application area, in which the received labels can be applied to the containers by the equipment movement devices.

[0026] Alternatively or additionally, the basic element may extend along at least one of: a cutting station for cutting labels from a label tape; at least one label magazine for supplying labels; an adhesive application station for applying an adhesive (e.g., glue or adhesive) to labels and / or label holders (e.g., the multiple equipment moving devices); a marking station, preferably a printing station and / or laser marking station, for marking (e.g., printing and / or laser marking) labels and / or containers; a support bar for laterally supporting the container moving devices during the fitting, preferably labeling, process; and a brushing device for brushing labels onto the containers.Advantageously, additional functions can be combined to improve the equipment with the planar drive system, thus enabling flexible integration of these functions.

[0027] In a further embodiment, the multiple equipment movement devices each have a height adjustment device for adjusting the height of a label holder or a marking or equipment device, preferably a printing device or laser marking device or an adhesive application device, or a brush element of the respective equipment movement device relative to a base element of the respective equipment movement device. Alternatively or additionally, the device can, for example, have a height adjustment device that is connected to the base element for adjusting the height position of at least a part of the base element. Advantageously, this allows for flexible adaptation to container formats with different heights.

[0028] In one embodiment, the multiple equipment movement devices each have a first label holder for holding a first label and / or a second label holder for holding a second label. Preferably, at least one of the following can also be fulfilled: the first label holder and / or the second label holder is / are each designed as a gripping finger or receiving pad; the first label holder and the second label holder are arranged one above the other; the first label holder and the second label holder are oriented differently to hold the first and second labels in different orientations; and the first label holder and the second label holder are arranged on opposite sides of the respective equipment movement device. Advantageously, this enables the safe and simultaneous handling of multiple labels for labeling different areas of a container.

[0029] In a further embodiment, the device also comprises a first label magazine for providing first labels and a second label magazine for providing second labels that differ from the first labels. Preferably, the control unit can be configured to operate a first equipment movement device for moving to the first label magazine to pick up a first label and, preferably in the same operation, a second equipment movement device for moving to the second label magazine to pick up a second label (e.g., for mixed labeling of a container with the first label by means of the first equipment movement device and the second label by means of the second equipment movement device).

[0030] In one embodiment, the basic element has at least one traction element, preferably a roller, wheel, or track, for moving it over a surface. This advantageously allows for a flexible arrangement of the basic element, e.g., as part of a modular system.

[0031] In a further embodiment, the device also includes a marking station, preferably stationary, preferably a printing station and / or laser marking station. Preferably, the marking station can be arranged such that the containers transported by the multiple container moving devices can be marked, preferably printed and / or laser marked, by the marking station while the containers are held by the respective container moving device. Alternatively or additionally, the marking station can, for example, be arranged such that labels held by the multiple equipment moving devices can be marked, preferably printed and / or laser marked, by the marking station while the labels are held by the respective equipment moving device. Advantageously, this allows for improved marking of the containers / labels.

[0032] In principle, it is also possible that at least one piece of equipment / movement device has a laser with which it can equip containers.

[0033] In one embodiment, the equipment movement devices include at least one brush movement device, which has at least one brush element for brushing a label (e.g., loosely) applied to a container onto the respective container. Alternatively or additionally, the equipment movement devices can, for example, include at least one marking movement device, which has a marking device, preferably a printing device or laser marking device, for marking containers or labels. Advantageously, this allows for flexible brushing of the labels and / or flexible marking of the containers / labels.

[0034] In a further embodiment, the multiple container handling devices each have a receiving pocket, preferably on the top, for one of the containers. Preferably, the receiving pocket can have a partial or complete circumferential rim for lateral support of the respective container. This advantageously enables secure support of the containers during loading.

[0035] Another aspect concerns a container handling system (e.g., for tempering, manufacturing, cleaning, coating, testing, filling, sealing, pasteurizing, decorating, labeling, printing, marking, laser marking, packaging, and / or palletizing containers for liquid or pasty media, preferably beverages, liquid food products, or products from the pharmaceutical or healthcare industries). The container handling system may include the device as disclosed herein. The container handling system may, for example, be a beverage bottling plant.

[0036] For example, the containers can be designed as bottles, cans, canisters, cartons, vials, tubes, etc.

[0037] Preferably, the term "control unit" can refer to electronics (e.g., implemented as a driver circuit or with microprocessor(s) and data storage) that, depending on its design, can perform control tasks, regulation tasks, and / or processing tasks. Although the term "control" is used here, it can also appropriately encompass or refer to "regulation," "control with feedback," and / or "processing." The control unit can, for example, be a central control unit or comprise several decentralized or distributed control units.

[0038] Another aspect is directed towards a method for equipping, preferably labeling, printing and / or laser marking, containers, preferably by means of the device as disclosed herein. The method comprises: individually controlled and independent movement of several motion devices by means of magnetic interaction with a basic element of a planar motor drive system; and

[0039] Transporting the containers with multiple container moving devices and / or equipping the containers with multiple equipment moving devices.

[0040] The procedure may further include one, several, or all of the following steps:

[0041] Manufacturing the containers using stretched bladders;

[0042] Filling the containers with a beverage;

[0043] Inspecting the containers, preferably with regard to correctly applied equipment;

[0044] Packaging several containers into one unit using packaging material, e.g. shrink film or cardboard; and

[0045] Bonding several containers together to form one package.

[0046] The basic idea is to use the technology revealed herein not only for containers but also for other objects (cars, e.g., for painting them).

[0047] The previously described preferred embodiments and features of the invention, in particular of the method and the device, can be combined with one another as desired.

[0048]

[0049] the characters

[0050] Further details and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. These show:

[0051] Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a device for equipping containers according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0052] Figures 2 to 21 are schematic representations of exemplary container movement devices and exemplary equipment movement devices of a planar motor drive system;

[0053] Figure 22 shows a schematic representation of a device for equipping containers according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0054] Figure 23 is a side view of a section of the exemplary device of Figure 22 in a first height setting; Figure 24 is a side view of a section of the exemplary device of Figure 22 in a second height setting; and

[0055] Figures 25 to 32 show a schematic representation of exemplary devices for equipping containers.

[0056] The embodiments shown in the figures are at least partially identical, so that similar or identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals and, to avoid repetition, reference is also made to the description of the other embodiments or figures for their explanation.

[0057] Detailed description of exemplary embodiments

[0058] Figure 1 shows a device 10 for equipping containers 12. For the sake of clarity, not all containers 12 in Figure 1 are provided with their own reference numeral.

[0059] Preferably, the device 10 can be configured for labeling the containers 12, as described in detail below. However, it is also possible that the device 10 is configured alternatively or additionally for printing on the containers 12 and / or for laser marking the containers 12.

[0060] The device 10 can, for example, be included in a container treatment plant. In the container treatment plant, the containers 10 can, for example, be manufactured, filled, sealed, and / or packaged.

[0061] The device 10 comprises a planar motor drive system 18 with a base element 20, container movement devices 22, equipment movement devices 24, and a control unit 32. Preferably, the device 10 may also comprise at least one inlet conveyor 14, one outlet conveyor 16, at least one camera device 34, 36, at least one label magazine 38, 40, 42, at least one binder application station 44, 46, one marking station 48, and a support bar 50.

[0062] The infeed conveyor 14 is preferably arranged to transport the containers 12 to the planar motor drive system 18. Preferably, the infeed conveyor 14 can transport the containers 12 to the container handling devices 22 and transfer them to these devices. For example, the infeed conveyor 14 can transport the containers 12 singly or individually. The infeed conveyor 14 can support the containers 12 during transport, for example, at the bottom, at the container circumference, at the container neck, and / or at the container neck ring. For example, the infeed conveyor 14 can be designed as a star conveyor (rotary conveyor), as shown schematically in Figure 1. Alternatively, the infeed conveyor 14 could be designed, for example, as a so-called long-stator linear motor conveyor or a short-stator linear motor conveyor.

[0063] As an alternative to the inlet conveyor 14, it is possible, for example, for the planar motor drive system 18 to be directly connected to a further device for treating the containers 12, arranged upstream of the device 10, preferably to transfer the containers 12 directly from the further device by means of the container movement devices 22. It is also possible for the device 10 with its planar motor drive system 18 to be integrated with a further device for treating the containers 12, arranged upstream of the device 10.

[0064] The discharge conveyor 16 is preferably arranged to transport the (equipped) containers 12 away from the planar motor drive system 18. Preferably, the discharge conveyor 16 can take the containers 12 from the container movement devices 22 and transport them away. For example, the discharge conveyor 16 can transport the containers 12 individually. During transport, the discharge conveyor 16 can support the containers 12, for example, at the bottom, at the container circumference, at the container neck, and / or at the container neck ring. For example, the discharge conveyor 16 can be designed as a star conveyor (rotary conveyor), as shown schematically in Figure 1.

[0065] As an alternative to the discharge conveyor 16, the planar motor drive system 18 is, for example, directly connected to an additional device for treating the containers 12, arranged downstream of the device 10, preferably to transfer the containers 12 directly to the additional device by means of the container movement devices 22. It is also possible for the device 10, with its planar motor drive system 18, to be integrated with an additional device for treating the containers 12, arranged downstream of the device 10.

[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, the planar motor drive system 18 is configured for transporting the containers 12 by means of the container movement devices 22 and for equipping the containers 12 by means of the equipment movement devices 24. Alternatively, it is possible, for example, that the planar motor drive system 18 is configured only for transporting the containers 12 by means of the container movement devices 22 or without equipment movement devices 24.

[0067] The basic element 20 can also be referred to as a platform or stator. The motion devices 22, 24 can also be referred to as movers, shuttles, or runners. The number of container motion devices 22 and / or equipment motion devices 24 can be freely selected depending on the application.

[0068] The base element 20 can support the motion devices 22, 24, preferably without contact. The motion devices 22, 24 can be individually driven by means of magnetic interaction with the base element 20 and can be moved independently of each other with respect to the base element 20.

[0069] The base element 20 can, for example, be electromagnetically based or coil-based. The base element 20 can, for example, have several distributed electromagnets, e.g., electrical coils. The motion devices 22, 24 can have permanent magnets, e.g., in a base element or in several spaced-apart base elements of a respective motion device 22, 24. The electromagnets of the base element 20 are preferably arranged in a matrix that extends in a plane of the base element 20. The control device 32 can adjust the current supply to the electromagnets of the base element 20 in order to generate electromagnetic fields at a desired position of the base element 20 with a desired field strength. A thrust, rotation, tilt, and / or stroke of the motion devices 22, 24 can be effected by correspondingly generating electromagnetic fields of the electromagnets of the base element 20.

[0070] Alternatively, the base element 20 can, for example, be permanent magnet-based. The base element 20 can have several permanent magnets. The permanent magnets of the base element 20 can generate a magnetic levitation field for the motion devices 22, 24. The motion devices 22, 24 can have permanent magnets, e.g., in a base element or in several base elements spaced apart from each other within a respective motion device 22, 24. The levitation field can be changed by altering the angular position of the permanent magnets of the base element 20 in order to move the motion devices 22, 24 relative to the base element 20. The change in angular position can preferably be effected by electric motors, such as rotating electric machines, of the base element 20. The electric motors can, for example, each move at least one permanent magnet, preferably rotate it. The permanent magnets orThe electric motors of the base element 20 are preferably arranged in a matrix that extends in a plane of the base element 20. The control device 32 can adjust the current supply to the electric motors of the base element 20 to move the permanent magnets as desired. A forward motion, rotation, tilt, and / or stroke of the motion devices 22, 24 can be effected by corresponding movement, preferably rotation, of the permanent magnets of the base element 20.

[0071] As explained above, the container movement devices 22 can be rotated relative to the base element 20. This allows the containers 12 to be individually rotated about their own vertical axis by means of the container movement devices 22, driven by a common drive, namely the planar motor drive system 18. This eliminates the need for individually driven container turntables of a rotary container conveyor.

[0072] Preferably, the base element 20 is aligned in a horizontal plane or at least substantially horizontally. For example, a drive surface of the base element 20 facing the motion devices 22, 24 can be planar and horizontally oriented. The base element 20 can have various features and shapes, e.g., strip-shaped, rectangular, square, polygonal, round, circular, etc.

[0073] Preferably, the basic element 20 has several segments, preferably plate- or tile-shaped. The segments can be arranged in a common (e.g., horizontal) plane. The segments can be adjacent to one another. Electromagnets / electric coils or electric motors and the permanent magnets movable by the electric motors can be arranged, for example, in the segments.

[0074] Preferably, the basic element 20 can extend continuously from a label receiving area to a label application area.

[0075] In the label handling area, the equipment / movement devices 24 can handle the labels. For example, the equipment / movement devices 24 can handle the labels from at least one label magazine 38, 40, 42 or a cutting device for cutting labels from a label tape (not shown in Figure 1). In the label application area, the equipment / movement devices 24 can handle the application to the containers 12, which are preferably supported by the container / movement devices 22. For example, the label application area can be located at the support bar 50.

[0076] Preferably, the base element 20 can also extend along the binder application station 44, 46, the marking station 48 and / or the support strip 50, if present. The equipment movement devices 24 can thus be moved to the binder application station 44, 46, the marking station 48 and / or the support strip 50.

[0077] The motion devices 22, 24 can preferably have up to six degrees of freedom with respect to the base element 20. For example, the motion devices 22, 24 can each be moved translationally with respect to the base element 20 by means of magnetic interaction (in the x-direction and in the y-direction). The motion devices 22, 24 can each be rotated with respect to the base element 20 by means of magnetic interaction (e.g., yaw). The motion devices 22, 24 can each be tilted with respect to the base element 20 by means of magnetic interaction (e.g., pitch and / or roll). The motion devices 22, 24 can each perform a lifting movement with respect to the base element 20 by means of magnetic interaction.

[0078] The container movement devices 22 are designed for transporting the containers 12. For the sake of clarity, not all container movement devices 22 are provided with their own reference numeral in Figure 1.

[0079] For example, the container moving devices 22 can each transport one or more containers 12. It is also possible that, for example, two or more container moving devices 22 can jointly transport one container 12, e.g., clamped between them.

[0080] Preferably, the container movement devices 22 each have a container holder 26 (only a few of which are marked with a reference numeral in Figure 1). The container holder 26 can hold at least one container 12. For example, the container holder 26 can support at least one container 12 at its base, at its body, at its neck, and / or at its neck ring. The equipment movement devices 24 are designed for equipping the containers 12. For clarity, not all equipment movement devices 24 are shown with their own reference numeral in Figure 1.

[0081] Preferably, the equipment / movement devices 24 are designed for transporting labels for labeling the containers 12 or for applying the transported labels to the containers 12. Preferably, the containers 12 can be transported by the container movement devices 22 during the application of the labels.

[0082] When changing container formats, it is possible for the container movement devices 22 and / or the equipment movement devices 24 to be moved along a path adapted to the respective container format, e.g., controlled by the control unit 32. The path can, for example, be adapted to a specific container diameter. Preferably, this ensures the safe transfer and handling of the containers 12 and the reliable application of the labels.

[0083] Preferably, the equipment movement devices 24 each have at least one label holder 28 (only occasionally marked with a reference numeral in Figure 1) for holding at least one label. It is possible that the equipment movement devices 24 each have two or more label holders 28 for holding two or more labels. Preferably, the label holders 28 can hold the labels, for example, at one or more edges of the respective label, e.g., by gripping or clamping. Alternatively or additionally, the label holders 28 can hold the labels, for example, by means of suction or electrostatically.

[0084] Alternatively or in addition to holding and labeling the containers 12 by means of the equipment-movement devices 24, it is possible for the equipment-movement devices 24 to equip the containers 12 in other ways. For example, the equipment-movement devices 24 can be configured, at least partially, for printing and / or laser marking the containers 12 and / or the labels. For example, at least one equipment-movement device 24 can have a printhead for printing on the containers 12 and / or the labels, or at least one equipment-movement device 24 can have a laser marking system for applying a laser mark to a container 12 and / or a label (not shown in Figure 1).Preferably, the container movement devices 22 and the equipment movement devices 24 can interact with each other in such a way that labels held by the equipment movement devices 24 can be applied to the containers 12 held by the container movement devices 22. For example, the control unit 32 can operate the container movement devices 22 and the equipment movement devices 24 in a coordinated manner. For example, the container movement devices 22 can be rotated about their own vertical axis by means of magnetic interaction with the base element 20 when equipping the respective container 12. For example, the equipment movement devices 24 can be rotated about their own vertical axis by means of magnetic interaction with the base element 20 when equipping the containers 12.

[0085] It is possible that the planar motor drive system 18 has a parking station 30 for motion devices 22, 24 that are not currently in use. Motion devices 22, 24 configured for transporting a different container format or a different label type can be stored in the parking station 30. In this way, a quick changeover to the different container format or label type is possible by exchanging the motion devices 22, 24. It is also possible to service motion devices 22, 24 stored in the parking station 30. Preferably, the base element 20 extends into the parking station 30 so that the motion devices 22, 24 can be moved into and out of the parking station 30 automatically.

[0086] The control unit 32 is configured to operate the planar drive system 18. Specifically, the control unit 32 can operate the planar drive system 18 such that the motion devices 22, 24 move as desired.

[0087] The camera device 34 can preferably be configured to detect the orientation of the containers 12. For example, the camera device 34 can enable container orientation by detecting embossing, a closure position, or other markings on the containers 12. These markings can be detected, for example, by image recognition in images taken by the camera device 34.

[0088] Preferably, the camera device 34 can detect the orientation of each container 12 held by one of the container movement devices 22. Preferably, the detection area of ​​the camera device 34 can be positioned adjacent to the inlet conveyor 14 and / or directed towards the base element 20. Depending on the detected orientation of a respective container 12, the movement of the respective container movement device 22 and / or the equipment movement device 24 that equips the respective container 12 can be adjusted, e.g., by the control device 32. For example, the adjustment can be such that the respective container 12 is equipped at the desired location on the container 12 and / or in the desired orientation.

[0089] The camera device 36 can preferably be configured to detect the equipment of the containers 12. For example, the camera device 36 can detect whether the detected equipment corresponds to a desired equipment (e.g., type, size, position, and / or orientation). The equipment can be detected in images taken by the camera device 36, for example, using image recognition. If, for example, the camera device 36 detects that the equipment of a container 12 does not correspond to a desired equipment, the corresponding container 12 can be discharged, for example, by the respective container movement device 22 or the discharge conveyor 16, or downstream of it.

[0090] Preferably, the camera device 36 can individually detect the equipment of a container 12 held by one of the container movement devices 22. Preferably, a detection area of ​​the camera device 36 can be positioned adjacent to the discharge conveyor 16 and / or directed towards the base element 20.

[0091] The at least one label magazine 38, 40, 42 is designed to dispense (e.g., individual) labels.

[0092] Preferably, the equipment movement devices 24 can take the labels from the label magazines 38, 40, 42. Preferably, the equipment movement devices 24 with their respective label holder 28 can unwind or rotate in front of a label magazine 38, 40 or 42 and thereby take a respective label.

[0093] The labels can be, for example, self-adhesive labels or can be affixed to the containers 12 later using an adhesive such as glue. The adhesive can, for example, already be applied to the label holder 28 (e.g., by the adhesive application unit 44) or be applied later to the label held by the label holder 28 (e.g., by the adhesive application station 46). The label magazines 38, 40, and 42 can provide identical or different labels. For example, a first label magazine 38 can provide the first set of labels, and a second label magazine 40 can provide the second set of labels. The second set of labels can differ from the first set of labels in shape, size, and / or decoration.

[0094] For example, the equipment movement devices 24 can each have two label holders 28. A first label holder 28 can hold a first label, and a second label holder 28 can hold a second label. For example, the first and second labels can be placed on the same container 12 or on different containers 12.

[0095] For example, first equipment moving devices 24 can take the first labels from the first label magazine 38, and second equipment moving devices 24 can take the second labels from the second label magazine 40. For example, the first and second labels can be applied to the same container 12 or to different containers 12.

[0096] The at least one binder application station 44, 46 can be configured to apply a binder. The binder can be, for example, an adhesive / glue. The at least one binder application station 44, 46 can, for example, have a glue roller or a spray head. It is possible that the equipment movement devices 24 with their respective label holders 28 roll or rotate in front of a glue roller and thereby pick up binder, e.g., onto the label holder 28 at binder application station 44 or onto the label at binder application station 46.

[0097] For example, the binder application station 44 can apply a binder to the label holders 28 of the equipment / movement devices 24. Using the applied binder, the respective equipment / movement device 24 can pick up a label from a label magazine 38, 40, or 42. The label picked up in this way can then be transferred, for example, to a label holder 28 of another equipment / movement device 24, so that the adhesive side is facing outwards and the label can be applied to a container 12.

[0098] For example, the binder application station 46 can apply a binder to the labels held by the label holders 28 of the equipment movement devices 24. The adhesive side of the held label is thus already facing outwards, and the label can be applied to a container 12. The marking station 48 can be configured to mark the labels and / or the containers 12. For example, the marking station 48 can include a printing station and / or a laser marking station. For example, a best-before date can be marked on the containers 12 or the labels using the marking station 48. Preferably, the container movement devices 22 move the containers 12 to the marking station 48 after they have been equipped, so that the containers 12 can be marked by the marking station 48, e.g.directly onto the container 12, onto a closure of the container 12 or onto a label attached to the container 12.

[0099] The support bar 50 can be configured to laterally support the container handling devices 22 during label application. For example, the container handling devices 22 can be statically supported against the support bar 50 while a label is applied to the respective container 12 being held. Alternatively, the container handling devices 22 can slide or roll along the support bar 50 while a label is applied to the respective container 12 being held.

[0100] It is possible that the container movement devices 22 have a contact element for contacting the support strip 50 (not shown in Figure 1). The contact element can be, for example, a strip, a sliding shoe, or a roller.

[0101] Preferably, the support strip 50 can be arranged in or on a label application area of ​​the device 10.

[0102] The features shown in Figures 2 to 32 represent modifications and additions. These modifications and additions are preferably combinable with the device 10, as shown, for example, in Figure 1. However, these modifications and additions are also disclosed independently of the device 10, as shown, for example, in Figure 1, and can be combined with each other arbitrarily, individually or in any combination of features.

[0103] Figure 2 shows an exemplary container movement device 22 and an exemplary equipment movement device 24.

[0104] The exemplary container movement device 22 can have a container holder 26 designed as a receiving pocket. The receiving pocket is preferably arranged on the upper side of the container movement device 22. The receiving pocket can, for example, have a partial or complete circumferential flange for laterally supporting a container 12. The exemplary equipment movement device 24 has a label holder 28. The label holder 28 is positioned relative to the container 12 such that it can apply the label to a body area of ​​the container 12. The label holder 28 functions as a body label applicator.

[0105] The exemplary equipment movement device 24 preferably includes an optional height adjustment device 52. The height adjustment device 52 allows the height position of the label holder 28 relative to a base element 54 of the equipment movement device 24 to be adjusted. The base element 54 can, for example, have at least one (e.g., permanent) magnet for magnetic interaction with the base element 20.

[0106] It is also possible that a device 24, instead of the label holder 28, may have, for example, a printing device, a laser marking device, or at least one brushing element. In such a case, the height adjustment device 52 can adjust the height position of the printing device, the laser marking device, or the at least one brushing element relative to the base element 54.

[0107] Preferably, the height adjustment device 52 can include an actuator, e.g., an electric motor. It is possible that electrical energy for driving the actuator of the height adjustment device 52 is provided by means of an electrical energy storage device of the respective equipment / movement device 24 and / or by means of electromagnetic induction, e.g., effected by the base element 20.

[0108] Figure 3 shows an exemplary container movement device 22 and an exemplary equipment movement device 24.

[0109] The exemplary equipment / movement device 24 includes a label holder 28. The label holder 28 is positioned relative to the container 12 such that it can apply the label to a chest / upper area of ​​the container 12. The label holder 28 functions as a chest label applicator.

[0110] It is understood that equipment movement devices 24, whose label holders 28 function as body label transmitters for tall containers 12, can function as chest label transmitters for small containers 12. No modification of the planar motor drive system 18 is necessary for this. When equipping a container 12, the container movement device 22 and / or the equipment movement device 24 can be tilted relative to the base element 20 by means of magnetic interaction with the base element 20. This tilting can be used, for example, to equip non-vertically oriented (e.g., conical) surfaces of the container 12, for example, with a label as shown.

[0111] Figure 4 shows an exemplary equipment-movement device 24.

[0112] The exemplary equipment / movement device 24 may preferably have two label holders 28. Depending on the application, the two label holders 28 may be identical or different.

[0113] The two label holders 28 can be arranged at the same height, as shown in Figure 1. Alternatively, the label holders 28 could be arranged at different heights.

[0114] Preferably, the two label holders 28 are arranged on opposite sides of the equipment movement device 24. Alternatively, the two label holders 28 could, for example, be arranged one above the other.

[0115] For example, the equipment movement device 24, when rotating about its own vertical axis, can first apply a first label (e.g., body label) from one of the two label holders 28 onto the container 12 and subsequently apply a second label (e.g., back label / body label) from a second of the two label holders 28 onto the container 12. The container 12 is preferably also rotated about its own vertical axis during the application process.

[0116] It is possible for the two label holders to hold 28 different labels. Preferably, this allows a container 12 to be equipped with two different labels. Alternatively, the equipment movement device 24 can select only one of the two label holders 28 for the label type or container format currently in use.

[0117] It is also possible that the two label holders can hold 28 identical labels. Using the equipment / movement device 24, two containers 12 can then be successively equipped with one label each.

[0118] Figure 5 shows an exemplary equipment-movement device 24. The exemplary equipment-movement device 24 can have a label holder 28 designed to hold and apply a wraparound label to the container 12. For example, the label holder 28 can have a length that is greater than or equal to the diameter of the container 12 in the application area (e.g., body area).

[0119] Figure 6 shows an exemplary equipment-movement device 24.

[0120] The exemplary equipment / movement device 24 can have two label holders 28. The two label holders 28 are, for example, arranged one above the other. The two label holders 28 can preferably hold different labels and apply them to the container 12. For example, the upper label holder 28 can hold a chest label and apply it to a chest area of ​​the container 12. The lower label holder can hold a body label and apply it to a body area of ​​the container 12.

[0121] Figure 7 shows an exemplary equipment-movement device 24.

[0122] The exemplary equipment motion device 24 can have a pivotable label holder 28. For example, the label holder 28 can be pivotable relative to a base element 54 of the equipment motion device 24 via an actuator. The pivot axis can be, for example, parallel to a horizontal plane or parallel to an alignment plane of the base element 54.

[0123] Preferably, the actuator may have an electric motor. It is possible that electrical energy for driving the actuator is provided by means of an electrical energy storage device of the respective equipment / movement device 24 and / or by means of electromagnetic induction, e.g., effected by the base element 20.

[0124] Figures 8 to 21 show further exemplary equipment-movement devices 24.

[0125] The exemplary equipment movement device 24 shown in Figure 8 has a label holder 28, preferably round, e.g., for a particularly long label. For example, the label holder 28 can have a cylindrical shape. The base element 54 of the equipment movement device 24 can be arranged inside the label holder 28. The base element 54 can, for example, be cuboid. The exemplary equipment movement device 24 shown in Figure 9 has a label holder 28, preferably round. For example, the label holder 28 can have a cylindrical segment shape, e.g., of a half-cylinder. The base element 54 of the equipment movement device 24 can be arranged inside the label holder 28. The base element 54 can, for example, be cuboid.

[0126] The exemplary equipment movement device 24 shown in Figure 10 has a label holder 28, preferably round. For example, the label holder 28 can have a cylindrical shell segment shape, e.g., a quarter cylinder. The label holder 28 can be arranged projecting from the base element 54 of the equipment movement device 24. The base element 54 can, for example, be cuboid in shape.

[0127] The exemplary equipment movement device 24 shown in Figure 11 has a label holder 28, preferably round, e.g., for a particularly long label. For example, the label holder 28 can have a cylindrical shape. The label holder 28 can be arranged projecting from the base element 54 of the equipment movement device 24. The base element 54 can, for example, be cuboid in shape.

[0128] The exemplary equipment movement device 24 shown in Figure 12 has a label holder 28, preferably round. For example, the label holder 28 can have a cylindrical shell segment shape, e.g., that of a half-cylinder. The label holder 28 can be arranged projecting from the base element 54 of the equipment movement device 24. The base element 54 can, for example, be cuboid in shape.

[0129] The exemplary equipment movement device 24 shown in Figure 13 has a label holder 28, preferably round, e.g., for a particularly long label. For example, the label holder 28 can have a cylindrical shape. The base element 54 of the equipment movement device 24 can be arranged inside the label holder 28. The base element 54 can, for example, be round, e.g., cylindrical.

[0130] The exemplary equipment movement device 24 shown in Figure 14 has two, preferably round, label holders 28. For example, the label holders 28 can be arranged on opposite sides of the equipment movement device 24, e.g., at the same or different heights. Preferably, the label holders 28 can have different shapes. For example, the label holders 28 can have a cylindrical shell segment shape. The base element 54 of the equipment movement device 24 can be arranged between the two label holders 28. The base element 54 can, for example, be cuboid in shape.

[0131] For example, the equipment / movement device 24 with the label holders 28 can hold two different labels, e.g., in the same cycle. The equipment / movement device 24 can then, for example, first apply a body label and then a back label. Alternatively, the second label holder can be used, for example, to apply a (different) label after a production changeover (e.g., a different label type or a different container format).

[0132] The exemplary equipment movement device 24 shown in Figure 15 has two, preferably round, label holders 28. For example, the label holders 28 can be arranged on opposite sides of the equipment movement device 24, e.g., at the same or different heights. Preferably, the label holders 28 can be identical. For example, the label holders 28 can have a cylindrical shell segment shape. The base element 54 of the equipment movement device 24 can be arranged between the two label holders 28. The base element 54 can, for example, be cuboid in shape.

[0133] For example, the equipment / movement device 24 with the label holders 28 can hold two identical labels, e.g., in the same cycle. The equipment / movement device 24 can then, for example, label two containers 12 one after the other. Preferably, the equipment / movement device 24 can move to two adhesive application devices for the adhesive for the labels one after the other.

[0134] The exemplary equipment movement device 24 shown in Figure 16 has a brush element 56. The equipment movement device 24 can also be referred to as a brush movement device. The brush element 56 can be used to brush a label loosely applied to a container 12 onto the container 12.

[0135] For example, the brush movement device and the container 12 can move together in one direction during brushing. Alternatively or additionally, the movement device and / or the container 12 can each rotate about their own vertical axis during brushing.

[0136] For example, the brush element 56 can partially or completely surround the equipment movement device 24. The base element 54 of the equipment movement device 24 can be arranged inside the brush element 56, as shown in Figure 16. Alternatively, the brush element 56 can be arranged to project from the base element 54.

[0137] The exemplary equipment movement device (brush movement device) 24 shown in Figure 17 has two brush elements 56. The two brush elements 56 are, for example, arranged one above the other. The two brush elements 56 can preferably brush different labels onto the container 12. For example, the upper brush element 56 can brush a chest label onto a chest area of ​​the container 12. The lower brush element 56 can brush a body label onto a body area of ​​the container 12.

[0138] The exemplary equipment-movement device 24 shown in Figure 18 has a marking device 58. The equipment-movement device 24 can also be referred to as a marking-movement device. The marking device 58 can be used to mark a container 12 or a label with desired information (e.g., a code such as a QR code, or a best-before date or batch number, etc.).

[0139] It is possible that the marking movement device has an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the marking device 58. For example, the adjustment mechanism can adjust the height position and / or orientation of the marking device 58.

[0140] Preferably, the marking device 58 and optionally the adjustment device can be supplied with electrical energy by means of an electrical energy storage device of the respective equipment-movement device 24, by means of a cable connection and / or by means of electromagnetic induction, e.g. effected by the base element 20.

[0141] For example, the marking device 58 can be a laser marking device. Using the laser marking device, information can be burned / engraved into the containers 12 or the labels. For glass bottles, the laser marking device can, for example, create an internal laser engraving. For pre-printed cans or similar items, the laser marking device can, for example, be used to selectively remove ink / material, thus creating an engraving recessed from the printed design.

[0142] Alternatively, the marking device 58 can, for example, be a printing device. The printing device can, for example, be an inkjet printer or a laser printer. The exemplary equipment / movement device 24 shown in Figure 19 has a label holder 28. The label holder 28 can, for example, have a gripping finger 60, a rotary axis 62, a compression spring 64, and a control roller 66.

[0143] The gripper finger 60 can clamp a label (shown with a dashed line), for example, to a holding surface of the label holder 28. The gripper finger 60 can be pre-tensioned into the clamping position by means of the compression spring 64. The gripper finger 60 can be rotatable about a pivot axis 62 for clamping and releasing the label. The control roller 66 can be operatively connected to the gripper finger 60 for pivoting the gripper finger 60 about the pivot axis 62. To open the gripper finger 60, the control roller 66 can be moved, for example, by means of the accessory movement device 24 along a control cam, e.g., when picking up or transferring a label.

[0144] It is possible that the equipment movement device 24 has at least one additional gripping finger 60 to hold the label in several places (not shown in Figure 19).

[0145] The exemplary equipment-movement device 24 shown in Figure 20 has a label holder 28. The label holder 28 can, for example, have a gripping finger 60, a rotary axis 62, a compression spring 64 and an actuator 68.

[0146] The actuator 68 can be operatively connected to the gripper finger 60 for pivoting the gripper finger 60 about the axis of rotation 62. For example, the actuator 68 can be designed as an electromagnet. When the electromagnet is switched on, it can, for example, attract or repel a magnet 70 attached to the gripper finger 60, e.g., to open the gripper finger 60 for picking up or passing on a label.

[0147] It is possible that electrical energy for driving the actuator 68 is provided by means of an electrical energy storage device of the respective equipment-movement device 24 and / or by means of electromagnetic induction, e.g. caused by the basic element 20.

[0148] It is again possible that the equipment movement device 24 has at least one further gripping finger 60 to hold the label in several places (not shown in Figure 20).

[0149] The exemplary equipment movement devices 24 shown in Figure 21 each have a label holder 28. The label holders 28 can be configured, for example, as explained with reference to Figure 19 or Figure 20. Both equipment movement devices 24, or both label holders 28, can jointly hold a label. Figures 22 to 24 show an exemplary device 10.

[0150] The device 10 can have a two-part base element 20. The container movement devices 22 can be moved via a first part of the base element 20 and driven by the first part of the base element 20. The equipment movement devices 24 can be moved via a second part of the base element 20 and driven by the second part of the base element 20. The first and second parts can be arranged side by side so that the containers 12 held by the container movement devices 22 can interact with the equipment movement devices 24.

[0151] Preferably, the device 10 can have a height adjustment device 72. The height adjustment device 72 is connected to the base element 20 for automatic / motorized adjustment of the height position of the second part of the base element 20.

[0152] For example, the height adjustment device 72 can be integrated into the legs or a stand of the base element 20.

[0153] For example, the height adjustment device 72 can be used to adjust the height position of the label holders 28 of all equipment movement devices 24 simultaneously. This makes it possible, for example, to switch from the equipment for tall containers 12 (see Figure 23) to the equipment for short containers 12 (see Figure 24).

[0154] Figure 25 shows an exemplary device 10.

[0155] The device 10 can have at least one brushing device 74, 76, 78.

[0156] The brushing device 74 can, for example, be arranged on one side of the base element 20. The brushing device 76, 78 can be arranged above the base element 20.

[0157] The brushing device 74, 76 can be stationary. The brushing device 78 can be rotatable or stationary.

[0158] The brushing device 74, 76 can, for example, have an elongated brush head. The brushing device 78 can, for example, have a round brush head.

[0159] Preferably, the containers 12, held by the container movement devices 22 and already bearing the applied labels, can be moved along the at least one brushing device 74, 76, 78 in order to brush the labels onto the held containers 12. It is possible that the container movement devices 22 rotate about their own vertical axis as they move along the at least one brushing device 74, 76, 78, in order to rotate the respective held container 12 during brushing.

[0160] Figure 26 shows an exemplary device 10.

[0161] The device 10 can include a container conveyor 80. Preferably, the container conveyor 80 can be a rotary container conveyor, as shown in Figure 26. Alternatively, the container conveyor 80 can, for example, be designed as a linear container conveyor.

[0162] Preferably, the equipment movement devices 24 can be operated by means of magnetic interaction with the base element 20 to move along with the containers 12 conveyed by the container conveyor 80 during the equipping of the containers 12.

[0163] Preferably, the outer edge of the base element 20 in the equipment area, where the containers 12 conveyed by the container conveyor 80 are equipped by the equipment movement devices 24, can be adapted to a shape of the container conveyor 80. For example, the outer edge of the base element 20 in the equipment area can be rounded and follow a rounded shape of the container conveyor 80, which is designed as a rotary conveyor.

[0164] Figure 27 shows a technique for rotating the containers 12 using a container conveyor 80.

[0165] The container conveyor 80 can have a mechanical control 82. The mechanical control 82 can have a stationary control cam 84, several container turntables 86, and at least one control roller 88 per container turntable 86. A container 12 can be held on each container turntable 86. The at least one control roller 88 per container turntable 86 can establish an operative connection between the control cam 84 and the respective container turntable 86 for rotating the container turntable 86 depending on the path of the control cam 84. For example, in the equipment area, rotation of the containers 12 can thus be enabled by means of the mechanical control 82. Accordingly, the rotation of the container turntables 86 can be individually controlled but driven by a common drive. In this case, the common drive can be a main drive of the container conveyor 80.

[0166] Figure 28 shows that extremely long labels can also be applied to the containers 12 transported by the container conveyor 80 using the device 10 and appropriately adapted equipment and movement devices 24. Figure 29 shows an exemplary device 10.

[0167] Preferably, the device 10 can be constructed in a modular design.

[0168] For example, the planar motor drive system 18 can have several module interfaces 90 for flexible connection to treatment modules 92. The treatment modules 92 can, in turn, each have their own module interface 94 for flexible connection to the planar motor drive system 18 or its module interfaces 90. For the sake of clarity, not all module interfaces 90, 94 are labeled with a separate reference numeral in Figure 29.

[0169] The treatment modules 92 can, for example, include one or more cutting station modules, label magazine modules, binder application station modules, marking station modules, support bar modules, parking station modules, control unit modules, camera unit modules and / or brush unit modules.

[0170] Module interfaces 90 and 94 are adapted for direct connection to each other. For example, module interfaces 90 can each have two adjacent holes (e.g., through holes). Module interfaces 94 can preferably each have two adjacent cones that fit into the holes of module interfaces 90 and are preferably oriented downwards. This can be particularly advantageous for hygienic reasons, for example. It is also possible, for example, that module interfaces 94 each have the two adjacent holes and module interfaces 90 each have the two adjacent cones.

[0171] Preferably, the module interfaces 94 can be arranged on an end face of the respective treatment module 92. Preferably, the module interfaces 92 can be arranged distributed around a circumference of the base element 20 of the planar motor drive system 18.

[0172] Preferably, the treatment modules 92 can be automatically moved to a respective module interface 90 by means of an automated guided vehicle (AGV) for automatic coupling to the respective module interface 90. It is also conceivable that coupled treatment modules 92 can be automatically uncoupled from a respective module interface 90 and transported away by means of an automated guided vehicle.

[0173] For example, it is also possible that the container conveyor 80 has at least one module interface 96 for connecting to at least one module interface 90 of the planar motor drive system 18. Preferably, the at least one module interface 96 can have two adjacent cones that fit into the holes of the module interfaces 90 and are preferably oriented downwards. Preferably, the container conveyor 80 has several module interfaces 96 that are spaced apart from one another and are connected to several module interfaces 90 of the planar motor drive system 18.

[0174] Alternatively or additionally to the modular design of the device 10, the base element 20 can preferably be movable over a surface. Preferably, the base element 20 can be moved over the surface by sliding or rolling. For example, the base element 20 can have several traction elements 98 for moving over the surface. The traction elements 98 can be designed, for example, as rollers, wheels, or tracks.

[0175] Figure 30 shows an exemplary device 10.

[0176] The device 10 can include a container conveyor 80 designed as a linear conveyor. The container conveyor 80 is preferably single-track.

[0177] Containers 12 conveyed on the container conveyor 80 can be guided laterally by at least one lateral guide rail 100, preferably on both longitudinal outer sides of the container conveyor 80 and / or at several height positions.

[0178] The containers 12 conveyed by the container conveyor 80 can be separated from each other by spacers 102.

[0179] The container conveyor 80 can, for example, have a circulating conveying element, such as a conveyor belt, conveyor belt, conveyor chain, etc. This conveying element can, for example, support the containers 12 at their base. The spacers 102 can be connected to the conveying element. The spacers 102 allow the containers 12 to be securely supported and, for example, clamped in place. It is also possible for the spacers 102 to be in the form of bottom-mounted receiving pockets for the containers 12.

[0180] As an alternative to the circulating conveying element, it is possible, for example, that the container conveyor 80 is designed as a long stator linear motor conveyor or as a short stator linear motor conveyor.

[0181] The basic element 20 of the planar motor drive system 18 can be arranged on one side along a longitudinal outer side of the container conveyor 80 or on both sides along both longitudinal outer sides of the container conveyor 80.

[0182] Figure 31 shows an exemplary device 10. Preferably, the container conveyor 80 can again be designed as a linear conveyor. The planar motor drive system 18 can be arranged on both sides of the container conveyor 80.

[0183] A brushing device 104 can preferably be arranged on one side along a longitudinal outer edge of the container conveyor 80 or on both sides along both longitudinal outer edges of the container conveyor 80. The brushing device 104 can preferably be a linear brushing device. The brushing device 104 is preferably stationary. For example, the brushing device 104 can have at least one elongated brush head. The brushing device 104 can brush labels onto the containers 12 transported by the container conveyor 80.

[0184] Figure 32 shows an exemplary device 10.

[0185] Preferably, the container conveyor 80 can again be designed as a linear conveyor. The planar motor drive system 18 can be arranged on both sides of the container conveyor 80.

[0186] Preferably, the container conveyor 80 can be configured with a gradient, at least in sections. Due to this gradient, the container conveyor 80 can preferably extend through a recess 106 in the base element 20 from a bottom surface of the base element 20 to a top surface of the base element 106.

[0187] It is also possible that the device has a receptacle 108 for a label roll. The label roll positioned in the receptacle 108 can be unwound as a label strip and fed to a cutting station 110. The cutting station 110 can cut labels from the unwound label strip. For example, the cutting station can have at least one cutting roller. The cut labels can each be picked up by, for example, one or two equipment / movement devices 24.

[0188] The invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Rather, a multitude of variants and modifications are possible, which also make use of the inventive concept and therefore fall within the scope of protection. In particular, the invention also claims protection for the subject matter and the features of the dependent claims independently of the referenced claims. In particular, the individual features of independent claim 1 are each disclosed independently of one another. In addition, the features of the dependent claims are also disclosed independently of all features of independent claim 1 and, for example, independently of the features relating to the presence and / or configuration of the planar drive system, the control device, the base element, and / or the motion devices of independent claim 1.All range specifications herein are to be understood as disclosed in such a way that all values ​​falling within the respective range are individually disclosed, e.g., also as preferred narrower outer limits of the respective range. List of reference symbols.

[0189] 10 Device for equipping Be62 rotary axis

[0190] Holder 64 compression spring

[0191] 12 containers 66 control rollers

[0192] 14 inlet conveyors 68 actuators

[0193] 16 discharge conveyors 70 magnet

[0194] 18 Planar motor drive system 72 Height adjustment device 20 Base element 74 Brushing device 22 Container movement device 76 Brushing device 24 Equipment movement device 78 Brushing device 26 Container holder 80 Container conveyor

[0195] 28 Label holders 82 Mechanical control 30 Parking station 84 Control cam

[0196] 32 Control unit 86 Container turntable 34 Camera unit 88 Control roller

[0197] 36 Camera unit 90 Module interface 38 Label magazine 92 Treatment module 40 Label magazine 94 Module interface 42 Label magazine 96 Module interface 44 Binder application station 98 Traction element

[0198] 46 Binder application station 100 Guide rails 48 Marking station 102 Spacers

[0199] 50 Support strip 104 Brush attachment 52 Height adjustment device 106 Recess

[0200] 54 Base element 108 Holder for label roll 56 Brush element 110 Cutting station

[0201] 58 Marking device

[0202] 60 gripping fingers

Claims

REQUIREMENTS 1. Device (10) for equipping, preferably labeling, printing and / or laser marking, containers (12), wherein the device (10) comprises: a planar motor drive system (18) with a control device (32), a base element (20) and several motion devices (22, 24) which can be driven individually by means of magnetic interaction with the base element (20) and can be moved independently of each other with respect to the base element (20), wherein the multiple motion devices (22, 24) have at least one of: several container moving devices (22) designed for transporting the containers (12); and several equipment-movement devices (24) designed for equipping, preferably labeling, printing and / or laser marking, the containers (12).

2. Device (10) according to claim 1, wherein: the basic element (20) is oriented horizontally or substantially horizontally.

3. Device (10) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein at least one of the following is satisfied: The multiple equipment movement devices (24) are designed for transporting labels for labeling the containers (12); and The multiple equipment movement devices (24) each have at least one label holder (28) for holding a label.

4. Device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the following is satisfied: The device (10) is free of individually driven container turntables for individually rotating the containers (12); and The containers (12) are rotatable about their own vertical axis when equipped with a common drive.

5. Device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: the device (10) further comprises a container conveyor (80), preferably a rotary container conveyor or a linear container conveyor, for conveying the containers (12), wherein at least one of the following is fulfilled: The container conveyor (80) has a mechanical control (82), preferably having a stationary control cam (84), which is configured to rotate the containers (12) about their own vertical axis during loading; and The control device (32) is configured to operate the multiple equipment movement devices (24) by means of magnetic interaction with the base element (20) to move along with the containers (12) conveyed by the container conveyor (80) during the equipping of the containers (12).

6. Device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: the control device (32) is configured to operate the multiple container motion devices (22) by means of magnetic interaction with the base element (20) to rotate, preferably about each of its own vertical axis of motion device, at least one of: Equipping the containers (12); Taking over the containers (12); Handing over the containers (12); Inspecting the containers (12); and Marking the containers (12).

7. Device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: the control device (32) is configured to operate the multiple equipment motion devices (24) by means of magnetic interaction with the base element (20) to rotate, preferably about their own vertical axis, at least one of: Equipping the containers; Taking over labels; and Absorption of binders.

8. Device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the following is satisfied: The basic element (20) extends continuously from a label receiving area, in which labels can be received from the equipment movement devices (24), to a label application area, in which the received labels can be applied from the equipment movement devices (24) to the containers (12); and the basic element (20) extends along at least one of: a cutting station (110) for cutting labels from a label tape; at least one label magazine (38, 40, 42) for providing labels; one binder application station (44, 46) for applying a binder to labels and / or label holders (28); a marking station (48), preferably a printing station and / or laser marking station, for marking labels and / or containers (12); a support bar (50) for laterally supporting the container movement devices (22) during the fitting, preferably labeling; and a brushing device (74, 76, 78) for brushing labels onto the containers (12).

9. Device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the following is satisfied: The multiple equipment movement devices (24) each have a height adjustment device (52) for adjusting the height of a label holder (28) or a marking device (58), preferably a printing device or laser marking device, or a brush element (56) of the respective equipment movement device (24) relative to a base element (54) of the respective equipment movement device (24); and The device (10) has a height adjustment device (72) which is connected to the base element (20) for adjusting a height position of at least one part of the base element (20).

10. Device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: the multiple equipment movement devices (24) each have a first label holder (28) for holding a first label and a second label holder (28) for holding a second label, preferably at least one of the following is fulfilled: the first label holder (28) and the second label holder (28) are each designed as a gripping finger or receiving pad; the first label holder (28) and the second label holder (28) are arranged one above the other; The first label holder (28) and the second label holder (28) are oriented differently to hold the first and second labels in different orientations; and the first label holder (28) and the second label holder (28) are arranged on opposite sides of the respective equipment movement device (24).

11. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a first label magazine (38) for providing first labels and a second label magazine (40) for providing second labels that differ from the first labels, where: the control device (32) is configured to operate a first equipment movement device (24) to move to the first label magazine (38) to pick up a first label and, preferably in the same work cycle, to operate a second equipment movement device (24) to move to the second label magazine (40) to pick up a second label.

12. Device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: the basic element (20) has at least one traction element (98), preferably roller, wheel or track, for moving over a surface.

13. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a marking station (48), preferably stationary, preferably a printing station and / or laser marking station, arranged such that Containers (12) transported by the multiple container movement devices (22) are identifiable by the marking station (48), preferably printable and / or laser-markable, while the containers (12) are held by the respective container movement device (22); and / or labels held by the multiple equipment movement devices (24) are identifiable by the marking station (48), preferably printable and / or laser-markable, while the labels are held by the respective equipment movement device (24).

14. Device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the following is satisfied: The equipment movement devices (24) comprise at least one brush movement device which has at least one brush element (56) for brushing a label applied to a container (12) onto the respective container (12); and the equipment movement devices (24) comprise at least one marking movement device which has a marking device (58), preferably a printing device or laser marking device, for marking containers (12) or the labels.

15. Device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: the multiple container movement devices (22) each have a receiving pocket, preferably on the top, for one of the containers (12), preferably: the receiving pocket has a partially or fully circumferential band for lateral support of the respective container (12).

16. Method for equipping, preferably labeling, printing and / or laser marking, containers (12), wherein the method comprises: by means of magnetic interaction with a basic element (20) of a planar motor drive system (18), individually controlled and independent movement of several motion devices (22, 24); and Transporting the containers (12) with multiple container moving devices (22) of the multiple moving devices (22, 24) and / or equipping the containers (12) with multiple equipment moving devices (24) of the multiple moving devices (22, 24).

Images