Spacer star wheel for conveying and transferring containers

Abstract

This invention relates to a spacer star wheel for conveying and transferring containers, comprising a curved guide and a plurality of gripping elements for gripping individual containers. The spacer star wheel is designed such that during operation, the gripping elements rotate along a curved path about the rotation axis of the spacer star wheel in a manner guided by the curved guide. By activating at least one curved guide segment, the shape of the curved guide can be adjusted such that the spacing between two adjacent gripping elements changes in the region of that curved guide segment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a spacer star wheel for conveying and transferring containers, the spacer star wheel including a bending guide and a plurality of gripping elements for gripping a container, wherein the spacer star wheel is configured such that during operation, the gripping elements guided by the bending guide rotate along a bending path about the rotation axis of the spacer star wheel. Background Technology

[0002] For transferring containers to a rotating machine, such as a filling machine or labeling machine, container handling systems are known to use spacer wheels to make the containers take the required distance to be transferred to the handling station. For this purpose, the spacer wheel's spacing in the container transfer area is synchronized with the spacing of the rotating machine. If the container handling system is to handle different container styles, in some cases the following situation occurs: different numbers of handling stations (e.g., blow molding stations of a blow molding machine) in a machine (e.g., a blow molding machine for forming containers from preforms) configured upstream of the production flow are used, for example, each handling station is used in a first operating mode and only each second or third handling station is used in a second operating mode. If, for example, only each second handling station on the machine is used, it can be said that the container handling system is operating at half load.

[0003] Spacer wheels are typically set up and constructed such that, in an operating mode (e.g., at full load), containers take the required spacing distance from subsequent machines (when that machine is fully loaded). However, if an upstream machine is to operate at half load and the spacer wheel used is not changed, gaps will appear in the container flow continuing to the downstream machine via the spacer wheel, so that not all processing stations in that machine are occupied.

[0004] These gaps can only be closed when the appropriate spacer wheel is used in each operating mode. For example, the spacer wheel must produce a smaller change in spacing distance when fully loaded compared to when half-loaded. Therefore, the spacing distance in certain areas of the spacer wheel must also differ for different operating modes. To change the spacing distance of the spacer wheel, for example for a change in pattern, it is known to date to replace the bending guide, which is usually in the form of a bending disc, and / or adjust the number of gripping elements. This means complex conversions are required, which also leads to relatively long downtime of the system. In addition, each operating mode requires a separate bending disc, which results in high acquisition costs. It is also possible to actuate the individual conveying elements of the spacer wheel individually; however, this requires considerable effort, especially to achieve the required accuracy.

[0005] If the aim is to operate at exactly two different intervals (e.g., to handle two different container styles), another possibility is to work using the same spacer star wheel or the same curved guide. For example, in the configuration (upstream) of the rotating machine, it is already possible to occupy only the second position, and therefore, the subsequent rotating machine and the spacer star wheel can also occupy only the second position. This means that the replacement of the spacer star wheel or the curved guide can be omitted. However, this therefore results in these rotating machines having to be constructed to be very large. In addition, this still achieves relatively little flexibility.

[0006] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to ensure greater flexibility in spacing without having to construct machines larger than necessary, in particular to simplify the transition between different spacing distances and reduce long downtime. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This objective is achieved through the spacer star wheel of Scheme 1. The present invention specifically provides a spacer star wheel for conveying and transferring containers, comprising a curved guide and a plurality of gripping elements, each gripping element for gripping a container. The spacer star wheel is configured such that, during operation, the gripping elements, guided by the curved guide along a curved path, rotate about the rotation axis of the spacer star wheel. By activating at least one curved guide segment, the shape of the curved guide can be adjusted, thereby changing the spacing distance between two adjacent gripping elements in the region of the curved guide segment. Therefore, during operation of the spacer star wheel, the previous spacing distance path of two adjacent gripping elements is changed by adjusting the curved guide.

[0008] Therefore, the protected spacer wheel can offer greater flexibility, as it can quickly and easily switch to different spacing distances by activating or deactivating the curved guide section, without requiring complex conversion work or long downtime. Furthermore, the machine does not need to be constructed to be particularly large.

[0009] Spacer star wheels typically include a rotating element that can rotate about an axis of rotation, such as a turntable driven to rotate about the axis of rotation during operation. A gripping element is connected to the rotating element in such a way that it is driven by the rotating element during operation. However, the gripping element is not connected to the rotating element in a fixed position or with a fixed orientation. In addition to gripping tools for gripping and holding containers, the gripping element also includes a roller. The spacer star wheel is configured such that the roller presses against a bending guide from the outside or inside (relative to the axis of rotation) and rotates about the axis of rotation in a manner guided by the bending guide. For example, the roller may include a roller that presses against the bending guide. Because there is no fixed connection between the rotating element and the gripping element (particularly between the rotating element and the roller), the shape of the bending path traversed by the roller is defined by the shape of the bending guide. Pressing against the bending guide can be achieved, for example, by a tension spring.

[0010] Therefore, a bending guide is a component or assembly of components configured and constructed about an axis of rotation such that when a wheel rotating about the axis of rotation presses against the bending guide, the wheel is forced to follow a path defined by the shape of the bending guide. A bending guide may include rods, tracks, and / or plates.

[0011] Therefore, the shape of the bending guide, the shape of the bending guide section, and the shape of the base element are intended in this application to define or limit the shape of the bending path traversed by the gripping element. This is the corresponding area pressed against by the roller.

[0012] When the roller (relative to the axis of rotation) presses against the bending guide from the outside, that is, when the external shape of the bending guide defines the shape of the bending path, it is called the external guide. When the roller (relative to the axis of rotation) presses against the bending guide from the inside, that is, when the internal shape of the bending guide defines the shape of the bending path, it is called the internal guide.

[0013] The grasping tool itself can be actuated actively or passively; for example, the grasping tool can be pliers.

[0014] The curved guide section and the curved guide can be configured specifically horizontally.

[0015] As described above, the shape of the bending guide can be adjusted by activating the bending guide segment. By activating the bending guide segment, the shape of the bending guide can be specifically adjusted so that the shape of the bending path traversed by the gripping element changes within the area of ​​the bending guide segment. This will be explained in detail below.

[0016] To activate, the bending guide segment can be switched from a passive to an active state, where the passive and active states differ in the position and / or alignment of the bending guide segment. The spacing within the region of the bending guide segment in the active state differs from that in the passive state. Multiple different active states are also possible. The position and / or alignment of the bending guide segment in the passive state can be specifically designed so that it has no effect on the shape of the bending path in the passive state.

[0017] In this application, the spacing distance is the distance between the centers of action of adjacent gripping elements, and more particularly, the distance between the centers of action of the individual gripping tools. This distance depends on the shape of the curved path traversed by the gripping elements (and therefore also on the shape of the bending guide). The spacing distance of the gripping elements at different positions along the curved path need not be the same. For example, the relative position and / or alignment of adjacent gripping elements can change along the curved path, resulting in a change in the spacing distance. The bending guide can be specifically configured such that the spacing distance varies depending on the position of each gripping element on the curved path. This means that the spacing distance can change according to the shape of the curved path when traversing it.

[0018] The container can be a bottle, can, or other container that can be transported and handled in a rotating machine.

[0019] It goes without saying that changing the interval distance in this application means that different interval distances can be adjusted separately using all gripping elements, that is, different interval distances can be adjusted separately for the same number of gripping elements, wherein all gripping elements are also configured in the active position of gripping and conveying the container during operation.

[0020] Activation may include moving and / or pivoting the curved guide segment, particularly pivoting and / or moving it in the horizontal direction. Therefore, the spacer wheel may include, for example, at least one rotatable curved guide segment and / or at least one slidable curved guide segment.

[0021] This means that the spacing can be varied by moving and / or pivoting the bending guide section. This method of adjusting the spacing is relatively simple, requires no conversion, and can be configured so that the spacing can be adjusted from outside the conveying area of ​​the container during operation and / or can be done automatically.

[0022] The curved guide section can be specifically configured on the upper or lower side of the base element, or between the upper and lower portions of the base element. The spacer star wheel can be specifically configured such that the curved guide section protrudes laterally beyond the base element at least partially due to movement and / or pivoting. Currently, particularly for curved guide sections with external guides, lateral protrusion means protruding outwards beyond the base element relative to the axis of rotation of the spacer star wheel; for curved guide sections with internal guides, lateral protrusion means protruding inwards beyond the base element relative to the axis of rotation of the spacer star wheel.

[0023] The spacer star wheel may specifically include at least one bearing constructed and configured such that the curved guide section is mounted to be pivotable via the bearing. Alternatively or additionally, the spacer star wheel may include at least one guide, for example, the guide including at least one rod or track, through which the curved guide section is movable and / or along the guide. Alternatively or additionally, the curved guide section may be mounted on at least one vertically and movably configured support element such that the curved guide section is activated by moving the curved guide section together with the support element. The curved guide section may specifically be mounted to be rotatable on two support elements such that the position and / or alignment of the curved guide section can be adjusted by moving the two support elements.

[0024] The bending guide segment can be activated automatically, and in particular, it can be moved and / or pivoted automatically. This allows for rapid and precise activation of the bending guide segment.

[0025] The spacer wheel may include a drive, particularly a hydraulic drive and / or a pneumatic drive and / or a motor drive, for activation, particularly in an automatic manner, and specifically for moving and / or pivoting the curved guide segment.

[0026] The actuator can be specifically configured outside the conveying area of ​​the container. This actuator can be actuated by a control device for the spacer wheel and / or an external control device, wherein the control device is configured to control the actuator, causing the curved guide section to assume various predetermined positions and / or orientations, specifically an active or passive state. In this way, the spacing distance within the area of ​​the curved guide section can be adjusted automatically.

[0027] Alternatively or additionally, the curved guide section may be coupled to an external drive, which is, for example, part of another system component.

[0028] The bending guide may include a base element whose shape defines a first bending path when the bending guide segment is not activated, and the bending guide segment may be activated such that, when the bending guide segment is activated, the shape of the bending guide segment and the shape of the base element together define a second bending path, which differs from the first bending path, particularly in terms of the associated spacing distance. Here, the spacing distance differs specifically in regions of the bending guide segment.

[0029] As an alternative, the shape of the bending guide segment and the shape of the base element can together define the (first) bending path when the bending guide segment is activated and when the bending guide segment is not activated.

[0030] The spacer star wheel may include a first curved guide segment or a first curved guide segment, a second curved guide segment, and a base element or the base element. The first curved guide segment can be activated such that, when the first curved guide segment is activated and the second curved guide segment is not activated, the shape of the first curved guide segment and the shape of the base element together define a second curved path or the second curved path. Furthermore, the second curved guide segment can be activated such that, when the second curved guide segment is activated and the first curved guide segment is not activated, the shape of the second curved guide segment and the shape of the base element together define a third curved path, which differs from the second curved path, particularly in terms of the associated spacing distance. Here, the spacing distance differs particularly in the regions of the first and second curved guide segments.

[0031] Specifically, in the above embodiments, the first bending guide segment and the second bending guide segment can be constructed and configured such that only one bending guide segment can be activated at any given time. This has the advantage of preventing unpredictable bending paths that might occur accidentally when both bending guide segments are activated due to incorrect operation.

[0032] Specifically, the first and second bending guide sections can be mechanically connected to each other, such that activation of one bending guide section deactivates the other. Deactivation here can mean that the deactivated bending guide section is placed in the passive state described above. Such a mechanical connection is simple and reliable, for example, because no corresponding actuation of the driver is required.

[0033] The above-described configuration with two curved guide sections can be particularly implemented with pivotable curved guide sections.

[0034] The curved guide section or all curved guide sections can be activated, in particular manually and / or automatically, without interfering with the spacer wheel. Specifically, the curved guide section or all curved guide sections can be activated by a transmission element configured to transmit the driving force for activation to one or more curved guide sections.

[0035] Therefore, for example, when changing tool parts, the interval distance can be changed without accessing the interval star wheel. In particular, this also enables its use in sterile machines.

[0036] The transmission element may include at least one adjusting rod that extends vertically downward from the bending guide, wherein the adjusting rod is configured to pivot and / or move one or more bending guide segments respectively.

[0037] Therefore, the adjusting rod can be connected to one or more bending guide sections respectively through appropriately constructed and configured connecting elements, so that the position and / or alignment of the bending guide sections can be adjusted simply by moving the adjusting rod.

[0038] The present invention also relates to a container handling system including the aforementioned spacer star wheel. The container handling system further includes a first container handler and a second container handler, the first container handler being, in particular, a blow molding machine, which is positioned upstream of the spacer star wheel during operation, and the second container handler being, for example, a labeling machine and / or a filling machine, which is positioned downstream of the spacer star wheel during operation. The spacer star wheel is constructed and configured such that when the spacing distance at the outlet of the first container handler changes, the spacing distance in the second container handler can be maintained by activating a bending guide section. The container handler may, in particular, be a rotating machine.

[0039] The present invention also relates to a method for changing the pattern of a spacer star wheel, the spacer star wheel including a curved guide and a plurality of gripping elements, each gripping element for gripping a container, wherein the spacer star wheel is configured such that during operation, the gripping elements guided by the curved guide rotate along a curved path about a rotation axis of the spacer star wheel. The method includes activating or deactivating a curved guide segment such that the shape of the curved guide is adjusted to change the spacing between two adjacent gripping elements in a region of the curved guide segment.

[0040] Activation can include moving and / or pivoting the curved guide section, particularly pivoting and / or moving the curved guide section in the horizontal direction. The curved guide section can be activated automatically, particularly moving and / or pivoting automatically. The curved guide section, or all curved guide sections, can be activated, particularly manually and / or automatically, without interfering with the spacer wheel.

[0041] The present invention also relates to a method for operating the aforementioned container processing system. The method includes: processing containers, particularly blow-molding containers, in a first container processor; and transferring containers from the first container processor to spacer wheels, particularly via a discharge wheel disposed between the first container processor and the spacer wheels. Additionally, the method includes transferring containers from the spacer wheels to a second container processor, particularly via a feed wheel disposed between the spacer wheels and the second container processor. This operation includes at least a first operating mode and a second operating mode, in which all processing stations of the first container processor are occupied, and in the second operating mode, not all processing stations of the first container processor are occupied, particularly only the nth processing station is occupied (where n is an integer greater than 1, particularly equal to 2), wherein the spacing in the second container processor is the same for both the first and second operating modes.

[0042] Transferring containers from the first container processor to the spacer star wheel can be done directly or via the discharge star wheel of the first container processor. Transferring containers from the spacer star wheel to the second container processor can be done directly or via the feed star wheel of the second container processor.

[0043] This means that only a spacer wheel can be configured between the first and second container processors, or a feed wheel and / or a discharge wheel can be configured in addition to the spacer wheel.

[0044] This means that even if multiple containers are processed simultaneously in the first container processor in the first operating mode and the container flow at the outlet of the first container processor is denser than the container flow in the second operating mode, the container flow at the inlet of the second container processor can be seamless, i.e., the density is the same in both operating modes.

[0045] It goes without saying that the features and advantages mentioned in the context of the spaced star wheel can also be used or applied to container processing systems and methods. Attached Figure Description

[0046] Further features and advantages will now be described using exemplary accompanying drawings, in which:

[0047] Figure 1 A schematic, non-proportional perspective view of the spaced star wheel according to the first embodiment, viewed from above.

[0048] Figure 2 A schematic, non-proportional perspective view of the spaced star wheel according to the first embodiment, viewed from below, is shown.

[0049] Figure 3The diagram shows two different curved paths, not at scale.

[0050] Figure 4 A schematic, off-scale perspective view of the spaced star wheel according to the second embodiment, as seen from above;

[0051] Figure 5 A schematic, non-proportional perspective view of a portion of the spaced star wheel according to the second embodiment, as seen from above.

[0052] Figure 6a and Figure 6b A schematic, non-proportional perspective view of a portion of the spaced star wheel according to the second embodiment, as seen from above.

[0053] Figure 7a and Figure 7b Two schematic top views, not at scale, are shown for container handling systems with different loads. Detailed Implementation

[0054] Figure 1 and Figure 2 An oblique view of the spacer star wheel 1 according to the first embodiment, as viewed from below and above (wherein, the above or above refers to the configuration of the spacer star wheel set for operation).

[0055] The spacer wheel is configured to transport and transfer container 2 (a bottle is shown as an example for now) and includes multiple gripping elements 3 for gripping one container respectively and a bending guide 4, which in this example includes a base element 4a and a bending guide segment 4b.

[0056] The curved guide segment is configured here, for example, below the base element. The advantage of this is that the curved guide segment is easier to install. However, it is also conceivable to configure the curved guide segment above the base element.

[0057] The spacer wheel is configured such that during operation, the gripping element is guided by a bending guide along a curved path 5a or 5b and rotates about the rotation axis 6 of the spacer wheel, the curved path being schematically shown. Figure 3 .

[0058] The spacer wheel includes a rotating element, typically in the form of a rotating plate 1a, which can rotate about a rotation axis. Additionally, the spacer wheel includes a driver 1c configured to rotatably drive the rotating plate. A gripping element is connected to the rotating plate in such a way that it is driven by the rotating plate during operation as the plate rotates. The gripping element includes a gripping tool 3a, typically in the form of pliers, for gripping and holding containers. The gripping element also includes a wheel 3b, which in this example includes a roller 3c. Multiple rollers are arranged here one above the other, with one roller configured to interact with a base element and another configured to interact with a bending guide segment. The interaction may include pressing against the bending guide.

[0059] In this embodiment, for example, an internal guide is present. This means that the roller (particularly the roller's rollers) presses against the bending guide from the inside, and the internal shape of the bending guide defines the shape of the bending path traversed by the gripping element. However, alternatively, an external guide can also be used. In this example, the pressing against the bending guide is achieved by a torsion spring. However, other pressure mechanisms, such as helical springs, are also conceivable.

[0060] By activating the bending guide section, the shape of the bending guide can be adjusted, thereby changing the spacing 7 between two adjacent gripping elements in the region of that bending guide section. In the case of the currently shown inner guide, the bending guide section (relative to the axis of rotation) in the activated or active state protrudes inward beyond the base element. As a result, the wheel in this region runs on a more inward bending path.

[0061] The curved guide segment is configured here to be horizontally movable for activation. In this example, the spacer star wheel includes a guide element 8, currently in the shape of a rod, through which the curved guide segment can be moved. It is also conceivable that the movable configuration is constructed differently, for example, the curved guide segment is mounted on a slidable (e.g., vertically configured) retaining element.

[0062] The spacer wheel may optionally include a driver 9, which is coupled to the curved guide section via a guide element 8 and drives the curved guide section in such a way that the curved guide section can be moved by the driver to activate or deactivate it respectively. For example, the driver may include an electric motor, a hydraulic driver, or a pneumatic driver.

[0063] Figure 3 Two different bending paths are shown: bending path 5a and bending path 5b. In bending path 5a, the bending guide segment is deactivated, and in bending path 5b, the bending guide segment is activated.

[0064] In the deactivated or passive state of the bending guide section, the gripping element runs along the first bending path 5a. In the embodiment shown here, the shape of the bending path in the passive state is defined only by the shape (currently the internal shape) of the base element of the bending guide.

[0065] In the active or in-force state, in this example, the curved guide segment protrudes laterally beyond the base element. In the region where the curved guide segment protrudes beyond the base element, the shape of the curved guide segment defines the shape of the curved path. In the remaining regions, the shape of the base element continues to define the curved path. Therefore, in the in-force state, the (second) curved path 5b is defined by the shape of the base element (currently the inner shape) and the shape of the curved guide segment (currently the inner shape).

[0066] like Figure 3 As shown, bending paths 5a and 5b are different. Therefore, in the region where the bending paths differ (i.e., in the region of the bending guide segment), the spacing distance in the active state differs from the spacing distance in the passive state. This means that by activating the bending guide segment, the spacing distance in the region of the bending guide segment changes.

[0067] It should be noted that the shapes of the base element and the curved guide section are shown schematically by way of example only, and there is no limitation on that particular shape.

[0068] Figure 4 Figures 6 to 6 illustrate a second embodiment of the spacer star wheel 1. Components that are the same as or similar to those in the first embodiment are identified herein by the same reference numerals. Figure 4 An oblique view viewed from above is shown (where the configuration of the spaced star wheel set for operation is shown above). Figure 5 Figure 6 shows a diagram of the second embodiment, wherein the details are not shown for clarity. Figure 4 Some of the components make the curved guide more visible. Figure 6a and Figure 6b Optional levers 13a and 13b and corresponding actuators 14a and 14b are also shown (see below).

[0069] In contrast to the first embodiment, the second embodiment includes an external guide. This means that the roller (particularly the roller's roller) presses against the bending guide from the outside, and the external shape of the bending guide defines the shape of the bending path. However, an internal guide is also conceivable. Here, the pressing against the bending guide is achieved by a tension spring (coil spring) 1b. However, other pressurizing mechanisms are also conceivable.

[0070] According to the second embodiment, in addition to the base element 4a, the spacer star wheel (particularly the bending guide 4) also includes two horizontally pivotable bending guide sections 4c and 4d. The first pivotable bending guide section 4c is disposed above the base element, while the second bending guide section 4d is disposed below the base element. However, it is also conceivable to dispose of both bending guide sections above or below the base element. In the active state of each section, the bending guide section (relative to the axis of rotation) protrudes outward beyond the base element. In the passive state, the bending guide section does not protrude laterally beyond the base element.

[0071] Here, the situation is different from that in the first embodiment (first refer to...). Figure 3 Similarly, two curved paths with different shapes also appear. A first curved path occurs when the first pivotable bendable guide segment 4c is activated and the second pivotable bendable guide segment 4d is deactivated. Thus, the shape of the base element and the shape of the first pivotable bendable guide segment 4c together define the shape of the first curved path. A second curved path occurs when the first pivotable bendable guide segment 4c is deactivated and the second pivotable bendable guide segment 4d is activated. Thus, the shape of the base element and the shape of the first pivotable bendable guide segment 4d together define the shape of the second curved path. The different shapes of the curved paths also result in different spacing distances in this region.

[0072] In this embodiment, the base element has a height profile on its upper side, which is formed such that the upper side of the base element is flush with the upper side of the first curved guide segment 4c. Furthermore, the base element has a height profile on its lower side, which is formed such that the lower side of the base element is flush with the lower side of the second curved guide segment 4d. This height profile enables a very space-saving configuration, but it is optional.

[0073] In this embodiment, the base element includes, for example, two bearings 10a and 10b, wherein a first curved guide section 4c is mounted pivotably via the first bearing 10a, and a second curved guide section 4d is mounted pivotably via the second bearing 10b. Different mountings are also conceivable, particularly mountings formed independently of the base element. One end of each of the two curved guide sections is mounted, while the other end is pivotable. The pivotable ends of the two curved guide sections point towards each other. This configuration is advantageous in this particular embodiment because of the mechanical connection between the two curved guide sections. However, it is also conceivable that the pivotable ends point away from each other, or that the pivotable end of one curved guide section points towards the mounting end of the other curved guide section.

[0074] like Figure 6a and Figure 6bAs shown, in this embodiment, the two curved guide sections can be mechanically connected to each other, such that activation of one curved guide section deactivates the other. This connection is optional, but it simplifies switching in certain situations because it eliminates the need for separate control. In this case, the connection is achieved via a connecting element. This connecting element may in particular include a rod 11a connected via a connector 11b.

[0075] like Figure 6a and Figure 6b As shown, the spacer wheel may optionally include a locking element 12 for locking the curved guide section, such as a locking element currently in the form of a centering pin. Multiple locking elements may also be provided, and one or more locking elements may be constructed in other ways (e.g., in the form of a stop). For example, in the case of actively controlling the position of the curved guide section, the locking element may be completely eliminated.

[0076] In this example, both curved guide segments include a recess at their pivotable ends, the shape of which matches the shape of a centering pin such that when the centering pin is inserted into the recess, the centering pin locks the curved guide segment. As shown, exactly one centering pin can be provided, or multiple centering pins can be provided; for example, at least one centering pin can be provided for each curved guide segment.

[0077] This embodiment illustrates a locking mechanism by way of example, in which a centering pin engages in a recess in a curved guide segment, which is either in an active state or activated, and the curved guide segment is attached thereto. Alternatively or additionally, at least one centering pin may be provided that engages in the recess in a passive state.

[0078] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the spacer star wheel is specifically configured such that the centering pin, when attached to the second curved guide section in the active state, simultaneously prevents the pivoting action of the first curved guide section in the active direction. For example, this can be implemented as follows: the recess in the second curved guide section is configured to have a channel opening for the centering pin, and the centering pin extends upward through this channel opening, such that when the centering pin is attached to the second curved guide element in the active state, the centering pin is laterally positioned adjacent to the first curved guide section, preventing the first curved guide section from moving outward (i.e., in the active direction). However, this design of the locking mechanism is optional.

[0079] exist Figure 6a and Figure 6bIn this configuration, a centering pin is connected to a locking lever 13a, specifically a vertically downward extending locking lever. A connecting mechanism (specifically lever 11a) is connected to an adjusting lever 13b, also specifically extending vertically downward. The locking lever is configured to insert and remove the centering pin by raising or lowering the locking lever. The adjusting lever 13b is configured to activate or deactivate the bending guide section by moving lever 13b. The adjusting lever 13b is securely connected to the central connecting lever 11a by a nut. The central connecting lever 11a is connected to a connecting lever 11c via a joint 11b, which in turn connects to the first bending guide section 4c. Simultaneously, the central connecting lever 11a is connected to a connecting lever 11d via another joint 11b, which connects to the second bending section 4d. This forms a crank-connecting rod that, when actuated by the drive 14b, sets the bending section to active or passive mode. Figure 6a In this configuration, due to the crank-connecting rod, the first bending guide section 4c is set as the active component, while the second bending guide section 4d is set as the passive component. This principle applies in... Figure 6b The opposite is true in the second bending guide section 4d. The first bending guide section 4c is set to passive, while the second bending guide section 4d is set to active. However, such adjusting rods are optional. They are particularly advantageous when the interval distance needs to be changed without intervention within the delivery area, especially in aseptic machines. The locking rod 13a may be optionally connected to an actuator 14a for raising and lowering the locking rod 13a. The adjusting rod 13b may be optionally connected to an actuator 14b for moving the adjusting rod 13b. The actuator may be configured, for example, in the form of a pneumatic or hydraulic actuator or in the form of a motor (especially an electric motor).

[0080] The following examples, using the two variations of the spacer star wheel described above, will illustrate the method according to the invention for changing the format of the spacer star wheel.

[0081] In the case of the spaced star wheel in the first embodiment, the pattern changes because the curved guide segment 4b moves by the driver 9 until it laterally protrudes beyond the base element 4a. Since the internal shape of the curved guide in this embodiment defines the shape of the bending path, the curved guide segment protrudes laterally inward relative to the axis of rotation when in the active state. Therefore, the curved guide segment moves either toward the axis of rotation or inward. This changes the shape of the bending path and, consequently, the spacing distance in the region of the curved guide segment 4b, adapting it to the new pattern. To switch back to the previous pattern, the curved guide segment moves in the opposite direction, i.e., away from the axis of rotation, so that it no longer laterally protrudes beyond the base element.

[0082] If the spacer wheel is instead configured such that the outer shape of the bending guide defines the bending path of the gripping element, then movement away from the axis of rotation (i.e. outward) will occur so that the bending guide segment takes an active state.

[0083] In the case of the spaced star wheel according to the second embodiment, it can be achieved by, for example... Figure 6a The first curved guide segment 4c shown and as... Figure 6b The style is changed by switching between the active states of the second curved guide segment 4d shown.

[0084] The following example illustrates the situation where the second curved guide segment 4d is activated for the first container style. Figure 6b To perform the change to the second container style, the centering pin 12 is pulled downward from the recess of the second curved guide section via the actuator 14a and the rod 13a. The second curved guide section is now no longer attached.

[0085] The second lever 13b moves horizontally via the actuator 14b. As a result, the second bending guide section 4d pivots to a passive state by being properly connected to the lever 13b. Due to this connection, the first bending guide section 4c simultaneously pivots to an active state, i.e., is activated. The lever 13a is then guided upward again, causing the centering pin to engage in the recess of the first bending guide section.

[0086] Figure 7a and Figure 7b Two top views of a container handling system 15 are shown, which includes a spacer star wheel 1 (particularly one of the aforementioned spacer star wheels) according to the invention. Furthermore, the container handling system currently includes a system portion for blow molding a container 2 from a preform 2a, which in turn includes a preform feeder 16, a heating portion 17 for heating the preform, a feed star wheel 18, a first container handler 19, and a discharge star wheel 20, the first container handler 19 being exemplified here as a blow molding machine.

[0087] The feed star wheel 18 is located at the inlet of the blow molding machine and receives preforms from the heating section during operation, transferring the preforms to the blow molding machine. The discharge star wheel 20 is located at the outlet of the blow molding machine and receives containers from the blow molding machine during operation, transferring the containers to the spacer star wheel.

[0088] The container handling system currently also includes a feed star wheel 21, a second container handler 22 (currently a filling machine), and a discharge star wheel 23. The feed star wheel 21 is located at the inlet of the filling machine and receives containers from the interval star wheel during operation and transfers the containers to the filling machine. The discharge star wheel receives containers from the filling machine. Alternatively, or in addition to the filling machine, a labeling machine or another machine for handling containers may be provided, particularly a container handling machine that also has associated feed and discharge star wheels, which respectively transfer containers to and receive containers from the machine.

[0089] Note that container handlers 19 and 22 can also be different machines, and can optionally include preform feeders, heating sections, and various feed and discharge star wheels. Other components (particularly conveying components) can also optionally be arranged between the container handlers.

[0090] Figure 7a A semi-loaded container handling system is shown. Figure 7b The diagram illustrates a fully loaded container handling system. These loads can be used for containers of different sizes, such as a 1.5L container (half-load) or a 0.5L container (fully loaded).

[0091] It is evident that at half load, a significant gap already exists between the preforms in the preform feeding and heating sections. When the blow molding machine is half load, only each of the second blow molding stations is occupied. However, in the downstream filling machine, the same number of containers are shown for both half load and full load; that is, the spacing in the machine remains constant. The spacing star wheel closes the gap in the container flow generated from the outlet of the half-loaded blow molding machine.

[0092] Therefore, as described above, the bending guide section can be activated or deactivated in the interval star wheel to adjust the interval distance appropriately according to the load of the system operation.

[0093] As Figure 7a and Figure 7b An alternative to the configuration shown is that only the spacer star wheel 1 itself may be configured between two consecutive container handlers 19 and 22 (particularly between the blow molding machine and the subsequent container handler). In this case, the spacer star wheel also functions as the discharge star wheel used by the upstream container handler 19 and the feed star wheel used by the downstream container handler 22.

[0094] Alternatively, a spacer star wheel 1 and only one other star wheel may be configured between two consecutive container handlers 19 and 22 (particularly between a blow molding machine and a downstream container handler). Specifically, in addition to the spacer star wheel 1, only the feed star wheel 21 of the downstream container handler 22 or the discharge star wheel 20 of the upstream container handler 19 may be configured between the two container handlers. In this case, the spacer star wheel 1 also functions as either the feed star wheel used by the downstream container handler 19 or the discharge star wheel used by the upstream container handler 22.

[0095] Other components (especially conveying components) can also be optionally installed between the container handlers.

[0096] An exemplary method for operating a container handling system (particularly the container handling system described above) including a spacer wheel according to the invention involves feeding a preform to a heating section, conveying it through the heating section and heating it there, then feeding it via a feed wheel 18 to a blow molding machine, where containers are formed at blow molding stations. The containers thus obtained are then received by a discharge wheel 20 via the blow molding machine and transferred to the spacer wheel 1. The spacer wheel 1 then transfers the containers (with different spacing distances) to the feed wheels of subsequent machines, such as labeling machines or filling machines.

[0097] The operation includes at least a first operating mode and a second operating mode, in which all processing stations of the first container processor are occupied. Figure 7b In the second operating mode, not every processing station of the first container processor (specifically, only each second processing station) is occupied. Figure 7a For both the first and second operating modes, the intervals in the second processing system are the same. When switching operating modes, the bending guide section is specifically deactivated or activated.

[0098] It should be understood that the features mentioned in the above embodiments are not limited to these specific combinations, and any other random combinations are also possible.

Claims

1. A spacer star wheel (1) for conveying and transferring containers (2), comprising a bending guide (4) and a plurality of gripping elements (3), each of the gripping elements (3) being used to grip one container (2). in, The spacer star wheel is configured such that the gripping element (3), guided by the bending guide (4) along a curved path (5a or 5b) during operation, rotates about the rotation axis of the spacer star wheel (1). Its features are, By activating at least one curved guide segment (4b, 4c, 4d), the shape of the curved guide (4) can be adjusted such that the spacing distance (7) between two adjacent gripping elements (3) in the region of the curved guide segment (4b, 4c, 4d) changes, thereby realizing the change of the previous spacing distance route of two adjacent gripping elements during the operation of the spacer wheel, wherein all gripping elements are configured in the active position of gripping and conveying the container during operation, and the spacing distance is the distance between the centers of action of adjacent gripping elements.

2. The spacer star wheel (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bending guide (4) includes a base element (4a) whose shape defines a first bending path when the bending guide segments (4b, 4c, 4d) are not activated. The bending guide segments (4b, 4c, 4d) can be activated such that when the bending guide segments (4b, 4c, 4d) are activated, the shape of the bending guide segments (4b, 4c, 4d) and the shape of the base element (4a) together define a second bending path, which is different from the first bending path.

3. The spacer star wheel (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second curved path differs from the first curved path in terms of the associated interval distance (7).

4. The spacer star wheel (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The bending guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d) are disposed above or below the base element (4a) or between the upper and lower portions of the base element (4a), and the bending guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d) are configured such that the bending guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d) are activated by movement and / or pivoting.

5. The spacer star wheel (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The bending guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d) are configured such that the bending guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d) at least partially protrude laterally beyond the base element (4a).

6. The spacer star wheel (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The spacer star wheel includes: a first curved guide section (4b, 4c, 4d) or the first curved guide section (4b, 4c, 4d), a second curved guide section (4b, 4c, 4d), and a base element (4a) or the base element (4a). The first bending guide segment (4b, 4c, 4d) can be activated such that when the first bending guide segment (4b, 4c, 4d) is activated and the second bending guide segment (4b, 4c, 4d) is not activated, the shape of the first bending guide segment (4b, 4c, 4d) and the shape of the base element (4a) together define a second bending path or the second bending path, and The second bending guide segment (4b, 4c, 4d) can be activated such that when the second bending guide segment (4b, 4c, 4d) is activated and the first bending guide segment (4b, 4c, 4d) is not activated, the shape of the second bending guide segment (4b, 4c, 4d) and the shape of the base element (4a) together define a third bending path, which is different from the second bending path.

7. The spacer star wheel (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The third curved path differs from the second curved path in terms of the associated interval distance (7).

8. The spacer star wheel (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first bending guide segment (4b, 4c, 4d) and the second bending guide segment (4b, 4c, 4d) are constructed and configured such that only one of the bending guide segments (4b, 4c, 4d) can be activated at any given time.

9. The spacer star wheel (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first bending guide segment (4b, 4c, 4d) and the second bending guide segment (4b, 4c, 4d) are mechanically connected to each other in such a way that activating one of the bending guide segments (4b, 4c, 4d) deactivates the other bending guide segment (4b, 4c, 4d).

10. The spacer star wheel (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The curved guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d) or all of the curved guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d) can be activated without interfering with the spacer wheel (1).

11. The spacer star wheel (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The curved guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d) or all of the curved guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d) can be activated manually and / or automatically without interfering with the spacer wheel (1).

12. The spacer star wheel (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The bending guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d) or all of the bending guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d) can be activated by a transmission element configured to transmit a driving force for activation to one or more of the bending guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d).

13. The spacer star wheel (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that, The transmission element includes an adjusting rod (13b).

14. The spacer star wheel (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The adjusting rod (13b) extends vertically downward from the bending guide (4).

15. The spacer star wheel (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The adjusting rod (13b) is configured to pivot and / or move one or more of the bending guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d).

16. The spacer star wheel (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The activation includes moving and / or pivoting the curved guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d).

17. The spacer star wheel (1) according to claim 16, characterized in that, The activation includes moving and / or pivoting the curved guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d) in the horizontal direction.

18. The spacer star wheel (1) according to claim 16, characterized in that, The bending guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d) can be activated automatically.

19. The spacer star wheel (1) according to claim 16, characterized in that, The curved guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d) can move or pivot automatically.

20. The spacer star wheel (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The spacer star wheel includes a driver (9, 14b) for activating the curved guide segment (4b, 4c, 4d).

21. The spacer star wheel (1) according to claim 20, characterized in that, The actuator is used to move and / or pivot the curved guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d).

22. The spacer star wheel (1) according to claim 20, characterized in that, The drive is a hydraulic drive and / or a pneumatic drive and / or a motor drive.

23. A container handling system (15) comprising a spacer star wheel (1) according to any one of claims 1-22, a first container handler (19) and a second container handler (22), the first container handler being disposed upstream of the spacer star wheel (1) during operation, and the second container handler being disposed downstream of the spacer star wheel (1) during operation, the spacer star wheel (1) being constructed and configured such that when the spacing in the outlet of the first container handler changes, the spacing in the second container handler (22) can be maintained by activating the bending guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d).

24. The container handling system (15) according to claim 23, characterized in that, The first container processing machine is a blow molding machine.

25. The container handling system (15) according to claim 23, characterized in that, The second container processing machine is a labeling machine and / or a filling machine.

26. A method for changing the pattern of a spacer wheel (1), the spacer wheel (1) comprising a curved guide (4) and a plurality of gripping elements (3), each of the gripping elements (3) being used to grip a container (2), wherein, The spacer wheel (1) is configured such that during operation, the gripping element (3), guided by the bending guide (4), rotates along the bending path (5a, 5b) about the axis of rotation of the spacer wheel (1). Its features are, The bending guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d) are activated or deactivated, causing the shape of the bending guide (4) to be adjusted such that the spacing distance (7) between two adjacent gripping elements (3) in the region of the bending guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d) changes, thereby realizing the change of the previous spacing distance route of two adjacent gripping elements during the operation of the spacer wheel, wherein all gripping elements are configured in the active position of gripping and conveying the container during operation, and the spacing distance is the distance between the centers of action of adjacent gripping elements.

27. The method according to claim 26, characterized in that, The activation includes moving and / or pivoting the curved guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d).

28. The method according to claim 27, characterized in that, The activation includes moving and / or pivoting the curved guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d) in the horizontal direction.

29. The method according to claim 27, characterized in that, The bending guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d) are activated automatically.

30. The method according to claim 27, characterized in that, The curved guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d) move and / or pivot automatically.

31. The method according to any one of claims 26-30, characterized in that, The curved guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d) or all of the curved guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d) can be activated without interfering with the spacer wheel (1).

32. The method according to claim 31, characterized in that, The curved guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d) or all of the curved guide sections (4b, 4c, 4d) can be activated manually and / or automatically without interfering with the spacer wheel (1).

33. A method for operating the container handling system (15) according to claim 23, comprising: The container (2) is processed in the first container processor (19). The container is transferred from the first container processor (19) to the spacer star wheel (1). The container is transferred from the spacer star wheel (1) to the second container processor (22). The operation includes a first operating mode in which at least all processing stations of the first container processor (19) are occupied, and a second operating mode in which not all processing stations of the first container processor (19) are occupied. The interval in the second container processor (22) is the same for both the first and second operating modes.

34. The method according to claim 33, characterized in that, The method includes blow molding the container in the first container processing machine (19).

35. The method according to claim 33, characterized in that, The method includes transferring the container from the first container processor (19) to the spacer star wheel (1) via a discharge star wheel (20) configured between the first container processor (19) and the spacer star wheel (1).

36. The method according to claim 33, characterized in that, The method includes transferring the container from the spacer wheel (1) to the second container processor (22) via a feed wheel (21) disposed between the spacer wheel (1) and the second container processor (22).

37. The method according to claim 33, characterized in that, In the second operating mode, only the nth processing station is occupied, where n is an integer greater than 1.

38. The method according to claim 37, characterized in that, n equals 2.

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