Cell beam for a filling machine

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cell beam for the aseptic zone of a filling machine (100) for filling packages (18) with a flowable product, wherein the cell beam (1, 1′, 1″) comprises a frame structure (2, 2′, 2″) having a first longitudinal structure (4a, 4a′, 4a″) on at least one side, at least one second longitudinal structure (4b, 4b′, 4b″) on a side opposite to the first longitudinal structure (4a, 4a′, 4a″), and a plurality of structures arranged between the first and second longitudinal structures (4a, 4a′, 4a″, 4b, 4b′, 4b″). The transverse elements (6,6′,6″) connecting the longitudinal structure are provided, wherein a plurality of cells (8,8′,8″) are formed between the longitudinal structure (4a,4a′,4a″,4b,4b′,4b″) and the transverse elements (6,6′,6″) for accommodating a package (18) to be filled or already filled, arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction of the cell beam (1,1′,1″), and wherein at least a portion of the transverse elements (6,6′,6″) is connected to the longitudinal structure (4a,4a′,4a″,4b,4b′,4b″) only in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a cell beam for the aseptic area of ​​a filling machine used for filling packages with flowable products. The invention also relates to an application of the cell beam according to the invention and a filling machine. Background Technology

[0002] This type of filling machine is used to fill packaging with preferably free-flowing food products. Packaging with an open top is particularly useful, providing an opening for filling. The packaging is, for example, a cardboard composite package made of packaging material in the form of a laminate, comprising a cardboard layer and an outer, especially thermoplastic, plastic layer, such as a layer made of polyethylene (PE). The cardboard provides sufficient stability to the packaging, allowing for easy handling and, for example, stacking. The plastic layer protects the cardboard from moisture and achieves a seal on the packaging material to form a closed package. Additionally, another layer, such as an aluminum layer, can be provided to prevent the diffusion of oxygen and other gases through the packaging. However, the packaging can also be in the form of a bottle, such as a PET bottle.

[0003] Food filling is typically carried out under aseptic conditions. Here, both the food to be filled and the packaging need to be sterilized. For this purpose, the food is usually heated for a specific period of time. The packaging is usually first purged with sterile hot air. Then, a sterilizing agent, typically hydrogen peroxide or at least containing hydrogen peroxide, is introduced into the heated packaging. Because the packaging is preheated, a high reaction rate is achieved during sterilization, and condensation inside the packaging is avoided. Moisture and residual hydrogen peroxide are then removed from the packaging by drying it with preferably hot and sterile dry air. Then, the aseptic packaging is filled again under aseptic conditions with the same sterile product, which is primarily free-flowing, especially liquid. The corresponding product is typically a food, such as juice, milk, sauce, etc. Here, the food may also have solid components in addition to at least one liquid component. After filling, the packaging is sealed in an aseptic atmosphere.

[0004] During sterilization and / or filling, the packaging may be transported continuously through the filling machine at a constant speed as needed. Alternatively, however, the packaging may move through the filling machine in a rhythmic, step-by-step manner. Here, the packaging may remain successively at specific locations for specific periods of time, in which the packaging may be stationary while hot air, sterilizing agent, and / or dry air or filled with the product to be filled is applied through at least one nozzle.

[0005] To purposefully transport packages through the filling machine, a transport device is typically used, which has a row of movable, circular cell beams. Cells on a single cell beam typically undergo the same process steps of the filling machine simultaneously. Multiple cells are created by arranging several parallel extending cell beams one after the other. In the supply area, packages are successively delivered by the supply device to the cells of the arranged cell beams. The packages then move within the cells through the filling area to the delivery area, during which time they are sterilized, filled, and sealed as described above. A sterile and antimicrobial area (aseptic zone) is required from the sterilization to the sealing of the packages, and especially during the filling process. Therefore, the cell beams must, as far as possible, prevent the introduction of bacteria or other contaminants into the aseptic zone. Simultaneously, the cell beams must be able to withstand the conditions within the aseptic zone (high temperature, water, sterilizing agents such as hydrogen peroxide). Then, in the delivery area, the packages are delivered by the appropriate delivery device. The now-empty cells are then moved back to the supply area through a return area, where they can again receive packages to be filled, especially those open on one side. The filling and return areas are typically constructed as straight lines, with a turning area in between where the transport direction of the cells is reversed. Supply and delivery devices are usually located within this turning area due to space constraints.

[0006] To prevent contamination and maintain the antibacterial properties of the cell beams for as long as possible, the transport device, including the cell beams, is cooled with cooling water. To this end, the transport device sprays cooling water through nozzles in the return area. This at least partially removes contaminants adhering to the cell beams, thereby preventing the accumulation of contaminants during operation in many cases.

[0007] However, splattering of high-viscosity products, such as sauces, can cause strong adhesion contamination to the transport equipment and cell beams, which cannot be effectively removed by the cooling water in the cell cooling system. This can lead to the accumulation of impurities and promote microbial growth. Consequently, the product inside the package may become contaminated with these microorganisms. The packaging quality deteriorates as the filled product spoils faster than expected. Therefore, production needs to be interrupted at relatively short intervals for intermediate or complete cleaning.

[0008] All attempts to date that have adequately addressed existing problems, such as enhancing cell cooling for better cleaning of transport units, have been insufficient to extend production cycles to the desired timeframe. This is due, for example, to limited available structural space, and / or to contamination of secondary equipment components of the filling machine during cleaning of transport units, and / or to the continued introduction of microorganisms into the packaging. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to design and extend such cell beams to reduce or avoid the accumulation of impurities and the risk of microbial contamination of the filled products.

[0010] According to a first teaching of the invention, this objective is achieved by a type of cell beam constructed by means of a frame structure having a first longitudinal structure on at least one side, a second longitudinal structure on at least one side opposite the first longitudinal structure, and a plurality of transverse elements arranged between the first and second longitudinal structures and connecting the longitudinal structures, wherein a plurality of cells arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction of the cell beam for receiving packages to be filled or already filled are formed between the longitudinal structures and the transverse elements, and wherein at least a portion of the transverse elements is connected to the longitudinal structures only in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner.

[0011] According to the second teaching, this objective is also achieved by the application of the cell beam according to the invention to a filling machine for filling packages with flowable products.

[0012] According to the third teaching, this objective is also achieved by a filling machine for filling packages with a flowable product, having a continuously surrounding transport device for transporting the package through the filling machine, wherein the transport device has a plurality of cell beams according to the invention.

[0013] While existing technologies attempt to combat unwanted impurities and contamination, for example, through more frequent or improved cleaning, or through improved sterilizing agents, the present invention offers alternative solutions. According to the present invention, by connecting at least a portion of the transverse elements to the longitudinal structure in a cell beam having the aforementioned longitudinal structure and transverse elements, for forming the cell, the accumulation of impurities and microbial contamination of the filled product can be reduced or avoided. It has been demonstrated that by using only form-fitting and / or force-fitting connections, the transverse elements and longitudinal structure can reliably achieve particularly small gaps in the connection area, which can also withstand the conditions within the aseptic zone of the filling machine. Conversely, under material-fitting connection conditions, such as welding, warpage (within the width of the cell beam) and gaps of less than or equal to 0.7 mm occur due to incomplete process control (e.g., heat input, heat diffusion, or melt kinetics during welding) and the conditions within the aseptic zone. It has been shown that such gap sizes at the connection locations within the cell beam can lead to microbial accumulation therein, thus contaminating the aseptic zone and consequently the product filled into the package. Furthermore, warping can lead to potential positioning inaccuracies, or at least reduced processing time, and thus necessitate, for example, earlier replacement of the transport chain. In contrast, in the connection according to the invention, the defined preset values ​​of geometry and surface properties (smoothness) can be reliably maintained, thereby lessening the triggering of bacterial growth. Therefore, by connecting at least a portion of the transverse element to the longitudinal structure only in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner, the risk of impurity accumulation and microbial contamination of the filled product can be reduced.

[0014] Therefore, in the preferred frame structure of the cell beam, all transverse elements are connected to the longitudinal structure only in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner, thereby further reducing the risk of unwanted impurities and contamination.

[0015] The use of cell beams in sterile areas means that they are designed to traverse sterile areas and can withstand environmental conditions dominated by, for example, water, hot air and / or sterilizing agents.

[0016] Longitudinal and / or transverse elements are preferably made of metal, preferably steel, which achieves economical manufacturing while maintaining high stability in form-fitting and / or force-fitting connections. For hygiene reasons, it is particularly preferred to manufacture the aforementioned elements from stainless steel, especially stainless steel of material number 1.4301 or stainless steels of higher valence in this group. The steel used preferably has a PREN (Pitting Resistance Equivalent Number) greater than 15, preferably greater than 17. For example, the PREN of 1.4301 type stainless steel is 17.5-21.1. The PREN can be calculated, particularly according to the formula PREN = 1 × %Cr + 3.3 × %Mo + 16 × %N (w / w) or alternatively according to the formula PREN = 1 × %Cr + 3.3 × (%Mo + 0.5 × %W) + 16 × %N.

[0017] The first and second longitudinal structures preferably form a longitudinal side of the cell beam frame structure, respectively. The first and second longitudinal sides preferably extend parallel to each other. The transverse elements preferably extend substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal elements.

[0018] However, multiple cells arranged side-by-side along the longitudinal direction of the cell beam are not necessarily directly adjacent to each other. Rather, it is preferable to construct the cells side-by-side with intervals along the longitudinal direction. "Constructing cells for accommodating packages to be filled or already filled" is understood to mean that the cells can, for example, fully or partially accommodate the package. The upper part of the package accommodated within the cell preferably extends beyond the formed cell.

[0019] The receiving or introduction of “empty” packages is preferably carried out along the introduction direction within the cell, which is set laterally (especially vertically) relative to the longitudinal direction of the cell beam and relative to the transport direction of the cell beam.

[0020] By incorporating a plurality of cell beams according to the invention into the transport device of the filling machine, the transport device has a large number of cells for accommodating packages. Here, the continuously encircling transport device particularly has a supply area equipped with a supply device for supplying packages to be filled. Furthermore, the transport device preferably also has a delivery area equipped with a delivery device for delivering the packages. A sterile area with a filling area is particularly provided between the supply area and the delivery area. A return area is preferably provided between the delivery area and the supply area.

[0021] In a preferred design of the cell beam according to the invention, at least a portion of the transverse element is connected to the longitudinal structure by riveting. It has been proven, particularly by riveting, that cell beams with less warping and gap formation can be manufactured economically, and ultimately, the risk of impurity accumulation and microbial contamination of the filled product can be reduced. For example, rivets are used at each connection point between the transverse and longitudinal carriers. The rivets are preferably arranged coaxially with the corresponding transverse element. Riveting can be achieved, for example, by solid rivets, blind rivets, or stamped rivets. Riveting can be form-fit and selectively force-fit. Cold riveting can, for example, establish a purely form-fit connection, while hot riveting can create an additional force-fit connection through shrinkage as the rivet cools.

[0022] In a preferred design of the cell beam according to the invention, at least a portion of the transverse element is connected to the longitudinal structure by means of a threaded connection. It has been proven that alternatively using threaded connections enables the economical manufacture of cell beams with low warpage and small gap formation, and as a result, reduces the risk of impurity accumulation and microbial contamination of the filled product.

[0023] In a preferred design of the cell beam according to the invention, at least a portion of the transverse element is connected to the longitudinal structure via a plug-in connection. The plug-in connection is, for example, a form-fit connection. For instance, the plug-in connection is achieved by engaging the transverse element in a slot in the longitudinal structure and / or in a slot of a sleeve that can be pushed onto the longitudinal structure. Here, the connection can be achieved, for example, by stringing the transverse element and sleeve onto the longitudinal structure, such that the transverse element can be form-fittedly connected to the longitudinal structure at a predetermined position. For example, the sleeve and / or the longitudinal bar of the longitudinal structure have at least partially surrounding grooves or slots into which the transverse element can engage. Thus, the transverse element, together with the sleeve, can first be plugged into or pushed onto the longitudinal bar of the longitudinal structure. Then, a fixed connection (locking) between the transverse element and the longitudinal structure is achieved, for example, by a fixed connection at the end of a first longitudinal structure on one side and a second longitudinal structure on the other side. Alternatively or additionally, the longitudinal bar can be screwed in, thereby further establishing a snap-fit ​​or locking connection between the transverse element and the longitudinal structure.

[0024] In a preferred design of the cell beam according to the invention, the first longitudinal structure and / or the second longitudinal structure are constructed as substantially flat sidewalls. The substantially flat sidewalls enable stable and reliable connections, particularly in the case of riveted or threaded connections. The flat sidewalls can, for example, be constructed as thin plates. To reduce weight and lower heat capacity, notches are preferably provided within the sidewalls.

[0025] Especially in the case of interlocking transverse elements and longitudinal structures, in a preferred design of the cell beam according to the invention, the first longitudinal structure and / or the second longitudinal structure each comprise at least one, preferably at least two, longitudinal bars. Transverse elements and sleeves can advantageously be fitted onto the longitudinal bars. The longitudinal bars are, for example, constructed as tubular. In the presence of multiple longitudinal bars, the longitudinal bars of a longitudinal structure are preferably stacked on top of each other along the direction of introduction.

[0026] Especially when the longitudinal structure is flat, in a preferred design of the cell beam according to the invention, at least a portion of the transverse elements is constructed to be substantially tubular. Compared to flat transverse elements, tubular transverse elements achieve particularly efficient cleaning of the cell beam due to their lower resistance to cleaning fluid. The tubular transverse elements are particularly reliably connected by means of a riveting process. Preferably, all transverse elements are substantially tubular in construction. Preferably, the tubular transverse elements have at least segmentally a substantially circular cross-section. However, it is also conceivable to have elliptical or angular cross-sections for the tubular transverse elements. The tubular transverse elements can be particularly modified, for example, to create a designated contact area with the packaging or to install insert elements, as will be further explained below.

[0027] In a preferred design of the cell beam according to the invention, at least a portion of the transverse elements is constructed substantially flat. The flat transverse elements enable high stability, particularly when the longitudinal structure of the frame structure is not flat (e.g., in the case of a rod-like longitudinal structure, which is advantageous when transverse elements are connected in series). Preferably, all transverse elements are constructed substantially flat.

[0028] In a preferred design of the cell beam according to the invention, the frame structure, particularly the longitudinal structure and / or transverse elements of the cell beam, have contact elements extending into the cell at least within the cell area for contacting the package to be contained or already contained within the cell. The contact elements prevent the package from being contacted by other frame structures within the corresponding cell area, thus reducing the contact area between the frame structure and the package. This avoids excessive heat transfer from the heated package to the frame structure, which in turn reduces or avoids cooling and the resulting condensation within the package (e.g., condensation of sterilizing agents). This further reduces the risk of contamination of the package by foreign substances. Here, the contact elements are particularly formed by the longitudinal structure and / or the transverse elements themselves. Especially when the longitudinal structure is flat, a dent-like protrusion pointing inwards towards the cell can be provided, for example, within the flat longitudinal structure. Especially in (tubular) transverse elements, one or more circumferential thickened portions can be provided on the transverse elements. Especially in flat transverse elements, a flat, elongated shape (especially extending along the direction of introduction) pointing inwards towards the cell can be provided on the transverse elements.

[0029] In a preferred design of the cell beam according to the invention, the cell beam further includes insert elements that are connected to or capable of being connected to the frame structure, particularly at least one longitudinal structure, and / or at least one, preferably two, transverse elements, and provide contact areas for filled or unfilled packages to be contained or contained within the cell. The geometry and characteristics (e.g., thermodynamic properties) of the area of ​​the cell beam that should contact the package and / or the geometry of the containing area provided by the cell (e.g., for different package sizes) can be adjusted independently and independently of the frame structure by the insert elements. Particularly advantageously, each insert element has two connection areas for connection to the frame structure. For example, each insert element has two connection areas for connection to the longitudinal structure. For example, each insert element has two connection areas for connection to two transverse elements.

[0030] For example, the contact area between the packaging and the cell beam is provided only through insert elements. Therefore, it is preferable that the packaging does not make any other contact with the frame structure.

[0031] The insert element is constructed, for example, in an elongated shape. In the inserted state, it preferably extends transversely (especially perpendicularly) to the longitudinal direction of the frame structure (i.e., especially along the direction of introduction).

[0032] In a preferred design of the cell beam according to the invention, at least a portion (preferably all) of the insert elements are detachably connected to or can be connected to the frame structure of the cell beam, preferably tool-free, particularly by means of snap-fit, threaded connection, and / or particularly lockable plug-in connection. This detachability allows for the replacement or alteration of the insert elements with minimal effort. It is shown that such connections are sufficiently durable for the environmental conditions within the filling machine and are not negatively affected by the accumulation of contaminants.

[0033] The insert element is preferably connected to or capable of being connected to the frame structure of the cell beam without the use of other auxiliary measures (e.g., in the case of snap-fit). Snap-fit ​​is particularly understood as a locking connection between the insert element and the frame structure of the cell beam, established under conditions of overcoming a certain installation force. In the case of snap-fit, the insert element capable of being connected thereby has, for example, at least one, preferably at least two locking grooves, particularly for connection with corresponding transverse elements. The transverse element may therefore have, for example, a circumferential groove at the corresponding location, such that the transverse element has a diameter suitable for connection with the locking groove of the insert element only within the groove area.

[0034] For example, a portion of the insert element is connected or can be connected to it by means of a snap-fit ​​(especially with transverse elements) and a portion of the insert element is connected by means of a threaded connection (especially with longitudinal structures).

[0035] In a preferred design of the cell beam according to the invention, the insert element is made of plastic, particularly of polyethylene terephthalate-based plastic, or has such plastic. By making the insert element from plastic, the frame structure can be made of, for example, metal, and even so, low heat transfer to the cell beam is achieved due to the low thermal conductivity of plastic. The plastic, for example, contains a uniformly distributed embedded solid lubricant, which achieves very high wear resistance and a low coefficient of sliding friction.

[0036] However, the insert can also be made of metal, especially steel, which achieves a particularly low risk of breakage during replacement or operation.

[0037] If, in a preferred design of the cell beam according to the invention, the insert element providing the contact surface has at least one resilient section, reliable placement of the package can be achieved without causing damage. The resilient section is particularly advantageous when the insert element is made of plastic, due to the elasticity of the plastic. For example, the insert element is locally thinned and / or has a unilaterally free-swinging arm to create the resilient section.

[0038] To reduce the risk of condensation while minimizing the risk of breakage of the insert element, in a preferred design of the cell beam according to the invention, the insert element has a metal reinforcement. For example, an internal metal insert is provided within the insert element made of plastic.

[0039] In a preferred design of the cell beam according to the invention, the cell beam has one or more flow-guiding structures, which can be arranged or positioned between two adjacent cells. The flow-guiding structures deflect airflow within the sterile zone of the filling machine. Preferably, the sterile zone is continuously flushed with gas (e.g., sterile air) to create a downward airflow within the sterile zone, thereby guiding any potential impurities downwards. Here, the flow-guiding structures are particularly configured to increase flow resistance in the area between adjacent cells. This results in higher airflow in the area where packaging is filled and contamination should be avoided. The flow-guiding structures, for example, form a funnel that converges along the introduction direction. The flow-guiding structures, for example, include one or more guide vanes.

[0040] In a preferred design of the cell beam according to the invention, one or more flow-guiding structures are constructed as a single piece with the frame structure, particularly the first and / or second longitudinal structures on the sides. The flow-guiding structures are formed, for example, by areas folded inward by longitudinal elements.

[0041] In a preferred design of the cell beam according to the invention, one or more flow guiding structures are detachably connected to or capable of being connected to the frame structure of the cell beam, particularly at least one longitudinal structure and / or at least one transverse element. In this way, the flow guiding structures can be replaced and made of a material different from that of the frame structure, particularly plastic. The flow guiding structures can in this case be connected to the frame structure, particularly as described for insert elements. The flow guiding structures are connected to or capable of being connected to the frame structure (e.g., to the longitudinal structure or transverse element), particularly by means of threaded connections or snap-fits. Attached Figure Description

[0042] Other advantageous exemplary designs of the invention can be derived from the following detailed description of the implementation of the invention, especially in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0043] The attached figure shows

[0044] Figure 1a b shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of a cell beam according to the present invention;

[0045] Figure 2a b shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of the cell beam according to the present invention;

[0046] Figure 3a b shows a perspective view of a third embodiment of the cell beam according to the present invention;

[0047] Figure 4a Figure b shows schematic diagrams of two other embodiments of the insert element; and

[0048] Figure 5 An embodiment of the filling machine according to the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0049] Figure 1a b shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of the cell beam 1 according to the present invention, from an oblique upper perspective, wherein Figure 1b A magnified view of the portion is shown. This cell beam 1 is applicable to filling machines (such as those used for filling packages with flowable products) Figure 5 The sterile area is illustrated in Figure 2. The cell beam 1 includes a frame structure 2 having a first longitudinal structure 4a on one side and a second longitudinal structure 4b on the opposite side. A plurality of transverse elements 6 connecting the longitudinal structures 4a and 4b are arranged between the first and second longitudinal structures 4a and 4b. A plurality of cells 8 (see Figure 2 or...) are formed between the longitudinal structures 4a and 4b and the transverse elements 6, arranged side-by-side but spaced apart along the longitudinal direction of the cell beam 1 to accommodate packages to be filled or already filled. Figure 5The transverse element 6 is connected to the longitudinal structures 4a and 4b on both sides by means of riveting 10, i.e., form-fitting only (and selectively force-fitting). However, threaded connections can also be used instead of riveting 10 for some or all of the transverse elements 6.

[0050] The first longitudinal structure 4a and the second longitudinal structure 4b are constructed with generally flat sidewalls and have notches 12 for weight reduction. The transverse element 6 is generally constructed as a tube.

[0051] The longitudinal structures 4a, 4b and transverse elements 6 of the frame structure 2 of cell beam 1 have contact elements 14, 16 extending into cell 8 within the cell area for contacting the unfilled or filled package 18 (see Figure 2 or...). Figure 5 The flat longitudinal structures 4a, 4b have indented protrusions 14 pointing inwards towards the cell, while the tubular transverse elements 6 each have one or two surrounding thickened portions 16, thereby providing contact areas for the packaging 18.

[0052] Furthermore, the cell beam 1 may also have one or more flow guiding structures (not shown here), which may be respectively disposed between two adjacent cells 8. This can be, for example, fixed to the transverse element 8 by means of a detachable connection, such as a snap-fit. However, a construction integrated with the longitudinal structures 4a, 4b is also conceivable (e.g., in...). Figure 2a As shown in -d).

[0053] Figure 2a b shows a different perspective view from an obliquely upward perspective of a second embodiment of the cell beam 1′ according to the present invention. Figure 2b A partially enlarged view is shown. Similar to cell beam 1, cell beam 1′ also includes frame structure 2′, which has a first longitudinal structure 4a′ and a second longitudinal structure 4b′ with flat sides. Between these, multiple transverse elements 6′ connect the longitudinal structures 4a′ and 4b′, thus forming multiple cells 8′ arranged side-by-side but spaced apart along the longitudinal direction of cell beam 1′ to accommodate packages 18 to be filled or already filled. Here, for illustrative purposes, one package 18 is shown as an open package and the other as a sealed package inserted into a cell 8′ of cell beam 1′. The transverse elements 6′ are still basically tubular in construction. The transverse elements 6′ are still connected to the longitudinal structures 4a′ and 4b′ on both sides by means of riveting 10′.

[0054] However, unlike the cell beam 1 in Figure 1, the longitudinal structures 4a′, 4b′ and transverse elements 6′ of this frame structure 2′ do not have integrated contact elements themselves.

[0055] Conversely, in addition to the frame structure, the cell beam also has insert elements 20a′ and 20b′, which are detachably connected to the frame structure 2′. Insert element 20a′ is connected to the longitudinal structures 4a′ and 4b′, respectively, while insert element 20b′ is connected to the two transverse elements 6′. This provides a contact area 30′ for a filled or unfilled package to be contained or contained within the cell.

[0056] At the insertion element 20a', a detachable connection is achieved by means of threaded connections 22' at two locations of the insertion element 20a' to the corresponding longitudinal structures 4a' or 4b', while at the insertion element 20b', a detachable connection is achieved by means of snap-fit ​​connections 24' at two locations of the insertion element 20b' to the corresponding transverse element 6'. For this purpose, the insertion element 20b' has a locking groove that partially surrounds the transverse element 6'. In this case, the transverse element 6' also has a surrounding groove in the connection area with the insertion element 20b', in which the locking groove of the insertion element 20b' can engage. Here, the insertion elements 20a' and 20b' are generally elongated and made of plastic, particularly of polyethylene terephthalate-based plastic. Metal reinforcements can also be provided inside the insertion elements 20a' and 20b'.

[0057] Figure 4 shows another alternative embodiment of the insert element, which can be connected to the frame structure (especially the transverse elements) by means of a detachable snap-fit.

[0058] In addition, the cell beam 1′ has multiple guide structures 26′, which are respectively arranged between two adjacent cells 8′. In this example, each guide structure 26′ has two guide plates, which are constructed as a folding area in one piece with the first or second longitudinal structures 4a′, 4b′ on the side of the frame structure 2′.

[0059] Figure 3a b shows a perspective view of a third embodiment of the cell beam 1″ according to the present invention, wherein Figure 3b An enlarged view of a partial cross-section is shown. Similar to cell beams 1,1′, cell beam 1″ also includes a frame structure 2″ having a first longitudinal structure 4a″ and a second longitudinal structure 4b″ on the side, between which are arranged multiple transverse elements 6′ connecting the longitudinal structures 4a″,4b″, thereby forming multiple cells 8″ between the longitudinal structures 4a″,4b″ and the transverse elements 6″, arranged side by side but spaced apart, along the longitudinal direction of cell beam 1″ to accommodate packages to be filled or already filled.

[0060] Unlike the cell beams 1, 1', the first longitudinal structure 4a' and the second longitudinal structure 4b' in cell beam 1'' each contain two longitudinal bars. Also unlike cell beams 1, 1', the transverse element 6' is constructed to be substantially flat. The transverse element 6' here has a flat, elongated shape extending along the introduction direction, defining the contact area with the introduced package. The transverse element 6' is connected to the longitudinal structures 4a', 4b' by means of interlocking. The interlocking is achieved by the engagement of the transverse element 6' within a slot in a sleeve 28' that can be pushed onto the longitudinal bars of the longitudinal structures, and by engagement within the longitudinal bar grooves 29' of the longitudinal structures 4a', 4b'.

[0061] The guidance and contact of the package 18 within the longitudinal structures 4a″, 4b″ are achieved by the insert element 20e″, which provides a contact area for the filled or unfilled package 18 contained in or to be contained in the cell 8″. The insert element 20e″ is here achieved by interlocking with the longitudinal structures 4a″, 4b″ by clamping (and thus locking) the insert element 20e″ between the two sleeves 28″ along the longitudinal direction.

[0062] Figure 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of two other embodiments of insert elements 20c′ and 20d′, which can be used, in particular, as insert element 20b′ shown in Figure 2. Insert elements 20c′ and 20d′ each have two locking recesses 30′, thereby enabling a snap-fit ​​24′ with the corresponding transverse element 6′. Like insert elements 20a′ and 20b′, insert elements 20c′ and 20d′ provide contact areas 32′ for filled or unfilled packages to be accommodated or already accommodated within the cell.

[0063] The insertion element 20d′ has two elastic segments for providing the contact area 32′, which are locally thinly constructed and have arms that swing freely on one side.

[0064] Figure 5 An embodiment of a filling machine 100 according to the invention for filling packages 18 with flowable products is shown, having a continuously surrounding transport device 114 for transporting the packages 18 through the filling machine 100. The transport device 114 here comprises a plurality of exemplary cell beams 1 according to the invention arranged sequentially along the transport direction T, but may also be cell beams 1′ or 1″. The cell beams 1 may be installed such that the longitudinal direction of the cell beam 1 extends perpendicular to the transport direction T. Therefore, due to a side view, only one of the cells 8 provided by each cell beam 1 is visible in this side view.

[0065] In this case, the filling machine 1 also includes a forming device 103 for forming the package 18 to be filled. However, in principle, the filling machine 100 can also be supplied with pre-filled, single-sided open packages. The filling machine 100 shown has a parallel processing line due to the multiple cells 8 of the cell beam 1, but... Figure 5 Only one of the processing lines is shown in the diagram. Each processing line is equipped with a stack of 104 packaging blanks 105, which are sealed together at their longitudinal edges to form a packaging cover 106 that is open on both sides. The packaging cover 106 is unfolded and pushed onto the protrusions 108 of the ratchet 109 by the delivery device 107.

[0066] The ratchet 109 shown rotates cyclically, i.e., stepwise. Here, the outer packaging 106 is processed at different locations. First, the edges are heated with hot air by means of the heating unit 110 and then pre-folded in the pre-folding device 111, thereby sealing the pre-folded edges to the bottom by means of the press 112. Thus, a package 18, open on one side and tightly closed at the end, is obtained, which is then passed by the supply device 113 to the continuously cyclically guided transport device 114. Supply here can be achieved by simply removing the package 18 from the ratchet 108 and pushing it into the cell 8 of the cell beam 1. Here, the packages 18 are successively introduced into the individual, cyclically guided cells 8 of the cell beam 1 of the transport device 114, each cell located within the supply area 116 of the transport device 114. The transport device 114 thus involves a continuously looping chain of cells.

[0067] Package 18 is transported via transport device 114 through aseptic zone 118, which is subsequently divided into sterilization zone 119 and filling and sealing zone 120. The transport of package 18 does not necessarily have to be in a straight line, but can also be in at least an arc or even a circle, depending on whether the filling machine 100 is a so-called elongated or circular machine. The aseptic zone within aseptic chamber 118 is flushed with sterile air through corresponding sterile air inlets 121, thereby preventing bacterial contamination.

[0068] First, the package 18 is preheated by blowing sterile hot air into the top-open package 18 through the preheating device 122. Then, a sterilizing agent is blown into the package through the sterilization device 123, which reacts more strongly and condenses less within the preheated package 18. Hydrogen peroxide is used as an example sterilizing agent. Hydrogen peroxide may be introduced into the one-sided open package 18 along with steam and / or air. After sterilization of the package 18, the interior of the package 18 is dried by applying dry air within the drying device 124. This dry air is preferably hot and sterile.

[0069] After being transferred from the sterilization zone 119 to the filling and sealing zone 120, the one-sided open package 18 is positioned under the filling device 125 and filled with food. The filled package 18 is then sealed by means of the sealing device 126 by folding the upper open area of ​​the package 18 and sealing it. The sealed package 18 is then delivered from the cell 8 of the transport device 114 in the delivery area 128 of the transport device 114 in the opposite direction to the introduction direction by the delivery device 127, and then further processed as needed. The now idle cell 8 of the transport device 114 continues to move toward the ratchet 109 through the return area 129 of the transport device 114, where it receives other packages 18. In order to enable the cell 8 to be transported back and forth continuously, the supply zone 116 and the delivery zone 128 are respectively equipped with rotary zones 130 and 131, in which so-called rotary rollers 132 are provided in the filling machine 100.

Claims

1. A cell beam for the sterile area of ​​a filling machine (100) for filling packages (18) with flowable products, wherein, The cell beam (1,1´,1´´) includes a frame structure (2,2´,2´´), which has - A first longitudinal structure (4a, 4a', 4a'') on at least one side. - At least one second longitudinal structure (4b, 4b', 4b'') on a side opposite to the first longitudinal structure (4a, 4a'', 4a''), and - A plurality of transverse elements (6,6',6') arranged between the first longitudinal structure (4a,4a',4a'') and the second longitudinal structure (4b,4b',4b'') and connecting the longitudinal structures. The first longitudinal structure (4a, 4a', 4a'') and the second longitudinal structure (4b, 4b', 4b'') constitute the longitudinal sides of the frame structure (2, 2', 2''). Between the vertical structure (4a,4a´,4a´´,4b,4b´,4b´´) and the horizontal element (6,6´,6´´), multiple cells (8,8´,8´´) are formed to accommodate the package (18) to be filled or already filled, arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction of the cell beam (1,1´,1´´). Each cell (8,8´,8´´) is formed by the vertical structure (4a,4a´,4a´´,4b,4b´,4b´´) and the horizontal element (6,6´,6´´). - The first longitudinal structure (4a, 4a', 4a'') and / or the second longitudinal structure (4b, 4b', 4b'') are constructed as substantially flat sidewalls, and at least a portion of the transverse element (6, 6', 6'') is substantially tubular. or - The first longitudinal structure (4a, 4a', 4a'') and / or the second longitudinal structure (4b, 4b', 4b'') each include at least one tubular longitudinal rod, and at least a portion of the transverse element (6, 6', 6'') is substantially flat. and In this configuration, at least a portion of the transverse element (6,6´,6´´) is connected to the longitudinal structure (4a,4a´,4a´´,4b,4b´,4b´´) only in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner. The cell beam (1,1´,1´´) also includes insert elements (20a´,20b´,20c´,20d´,20e´), which are connected to or can be connected to at least one longitudinal structure (4a,4a´,4a´´,4b,4b´,4b´´) and / or at least one transverse element (6,6´,6´´) of the frame structure (2,2´,2´´), and provide a contact area (32´) for a filled or unfilled package (18) to be contained or contained in the cell (8,8´,8´´).

2. The cell beam according to claim 1, in, At least a portion of the transverse element (6,6´,6´´) is connected to the longitudinal structure (4a,4a´,4a´´,4b,4b´,4b´´) by means of a riveting (10,10´).

3. The cell beam according to claim 1 or 2, in, At least a portion of the transverse element (6,6´,6´´) is connected to the longitudinal structure (4a,4a´,4a´´,4b,4b´,4b´´) by means of a threaded connection.

4. The cell beam according to claim 1, in, At least a portion of the transverse element (6,6´,6´´) is connected to the longitudinal structure (4a,4a´,4a´´,4b,4b´,4b´´) by means of a plug.

5. The cell beam according to claim 1, in, The frame structure (2,2,2') of the cell beam (1,1',1'') has contact elements (14,16) extending into the cell (8,8',8'') at least within the area of ​​the cell (8,8',8''), which are used to contact the package (18) to be filled or already contained in the cell (8,8',8'').

6. The cell beam according to claim 1, in, At least a portion of the insert element (20a´,20b´,20c´,20d´,20e´) is detachably connected to or can be connected to the frame structure (2,2´,2´´) of the cell beam, or can be connected without tools.

7. The cell beam according to claim 1, in, The insert element (20a´,20b´,20c´,20d´,20e´) is made of plastic, or has this type of plastic.

8. The cell beam according to claim 1, in, The insert element (20a', 20b', 20c', 20d', 20e') has at least one resilient segment in order to provide a contact area (32').

9. The cell beam according to claim 1, in, The insert element (20a´,20b´,20c´,20d´,20e´) has a metal reinforcement section.

10. The cell beam according to claim 1, in, The cell beam (1,1´,1´´) has one or more flow guide structures (26´) for deflecting airflow within the sterile zone of the filling machine (100), which can be arranged or positioned between two adjacent cells (8,8´,8´´).

11. The cell beam according to claim 10, in, One or more of the flow guide structure (26´) and the frame structure (2,2´,2´´) are constructed in one piece.

12. The cell beam according to claim 10, in, One or more of the flow guide structures (26´) are detachably connected to or can be connected to the frame structure (2,2´,2´´) of the cell beams (1,1´,1´´).

13. The use of the cell beam (1,1',1'') according to any one of claims 1 to 12 in a filling machine (100) for filling packages (18) with flowable products.

14. A filling machine (100) for filling packages (18) with a flowable product, the filling machine (100) having a continuously circulating transport device (114) for transporting the package (18) through the filling machine (100), wherein, The transport device (114) comprises a plurality of cell beams (1,1´,1´´) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

Images