Heating furnace and method of use

Abstract

A method of producing a plurality of preforms (5) temperature profiles is provided that employs a system having a first heating device, a second heating device, and a first transfer device. The first heating device has a first preform (5) path to which a first temperature profile is applied to preforms (5) passing through the first preform (5) path, and has a first distribution device configured to selectively distribute preforms (5) passing through at least a portion of the first preform (5) path. The second heating device has a second preform (5) path to which a second temperature profile is applied to preforms (5) passing through the second preform (5) path, and has a second distribution device configured to selectively distribute preforms (5) passing through at least a portion of the second preform (5) path. The first transfer device selectively transfers preforms (5) between the first preform (5) path and the second preform (5) path.

Description

[0001] CITATION OF RELATED APPLICATION

[0002] This patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 043,856, filed June 25, 2020, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present technology relates to systems and processes for producing a plurality of preforms having a plurality of temperature profiles, including where such preforms can be subjected to a blow molding process. BACKGROUND

[0004] This section provides background information relating to the present disclosure and is not necessarily prior art.

[0005] A variety of products are distributed in plastic containers, such as containers formed from one or more polymers. Common polymers used to form containers include polyester fibers, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), high and low density polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polycarbonate (PC), among others. Plastic containers can be manufactured using various blow molding processes, including injection blow molding, liquid or hydraulic blow molding, and extrusion blow molding, where such blow molding processes can employ a preform that is inflated by a fluid to form a final container.

[0006] Injection blow molding can be used to form certain plastic containers in one or more stages and can include the use of a stretch rod. In a two-stage injection stretch blow molding process, a polymer can first be made into a preform using an injection blow molding process. The preform can include a neck and finish to be formed into a container, as well as a closed distal end, where the finish can include threads thereon. The preform can then be heated above the polymer glass transition temperature, optionally stretched longitudinally with a stretch rod, and blown into a container that conforms to a mold using a high pressure gas, such as air. As the preform inflates, it elongates and stretches, assuming the shape of the mold cavity. The polymer solidifies upon contact with the cooler surfaces of the mold, and the finished hollow container is subsequently extracted from the mold.

[0007] Liquid or hydraulic blow molding can form and fill a container in a single operation. A liquid product can be used to form a polymer preform within a mold and filled to form a final container, where the liquid product remains in the finished container thereafter. Like the preforms used in injection blow molding, a heated preform can be placed within a mold, optionally stretched, and rapidly filled using a liquid product instead of a gas, thereby forming a container. As a result, the combination of the shaping step and the filling step can optimize the packaging of a liquid product by removing the transport of empty containers and the time requirements associated with a subsequent filling operation.

[0008] A variety of types of preforms can be used in such blow molding processes. The preforms of certain embodiments include injection molded, rotationally or axially symmetric preforms having an elongated, cylindrical, transverse body section, a rounded, closed bottom, and a neck section having an upper opening. At a location proximate the opening, there can be a threaded finish section, which can be defined toward its bottom by a collar or the like. The threaded finish section can be retained during blow molding of the preform, e.g., where the finish can form threads for a threaded cap of the finished beverage container. Conversely, the remainder of the preform can be deformed and stretched in the blow molding process. The preform can be heated to a predetermined temperature to enable blow molding in a desired manner. Heating can be performed in a variety of ways, including using infrared radiation of an infrared oven, to achieve a determined and uniform temperature control of the preform.

[0009] In particular, the polymeric material of the preform, e.g., PET, can have properties such that the polymer can strain harden as it is stretched. Thus, the forming temperature employed in the blow molding process can be a determining factor for the final container. In the production of PET containers, the strain hardening effect can be taken into account in order to control and optimize the wall thickness distribution. Depending on the production process, heat can be applied via infrared radiation such that the preform is heated according to a temperature profile. In this way, for example, hotter sections of the preform can deform preferentially to other portions as soon as the required stretch resistance resulting from strain hardening becomes greater than that of adjacent cooler sections. The temperature profile can be distributed uniformly around the circumference of the preform, and can vary along the longitudinal axis of the preform according to the process. To apply the desired temperature profile to the preform, a plurality of heating zones can be employed, e.g., as many as nine or more zones. The plurality of different heating zones can be controlled individually over longer periods of operation of the heating apparatus, thereby maintaining a selected setting constant.

[0010] Different preforms of different structures can require different heating schemes to prepare for blow molding into a final container. For example, different sizes, shapes, or thicknesses of preforms formed from or including different polymers or polymer combinations, layers, etc. can each have a predetermined temperature profile optimized for a particular blow molding process. Certain examples include different heating schemes for affecting different temperature profiles of PET preforms versus PP preforms. Other examples include different heating schemes for achieving the same temperature profile, but where the preforms have different characteristics that require different schemes to achieve the same temperature profile, e.g., preforms formed from the same material but having different thicknesses. Thus, various heating parameters can be tailored to a particular preform, including the number of heating zones, the temperature of a particular heating zone, the time of exposure to a particular heating zone, etc.

[0011] Blow molding systems can generally include preform heating devices in close proximity thereto, where heated preforms can be rapidly transferred to a mold and formed into a final container before a desired temperature profile of the preform changes. For example, a preform can be tailored through an infrared oven travel path to produce a predetermined temperature profile in a given preform. However, if conditions of the blow molding system and / or process change, it can be necessary to change the preform path or heating device to accommodate a new temperature profile of a given preform. Changes in blow molding conditions can include use of another preform type, changes in a mold, changes in blow molding parameters, etc. Accordingly, it can be difficult to adapt the blow molding system and / or process to changing conditions that require a change in preform temperature profile while maintaining continuous or high throughput production of containers. Generally, one or more settings can need to be changed, one or more new balances can need to be reached, and one or more physical parameters in the blow molding system can need to be adjusted to accommodate preforms having different characteristics.

[0012] In view of these issues, the present technology provides an adaptable heating mechanism for providing different temperature profiles for different preforms, where the resulting blow molding operation is able to maintain continuous or high throughput. SUMMARY

[0013] The present technology includes systems and processes related to producing a plurality of preform temperature profiles, allowing different preforms to be blow molded using a pressurized fluid.

[0014] A system for producing a plurality of preform temperature profiles is provided, the system including a first heating device, a second heating device, and a first transfer device. The first heating device has a first preform path, where the first heating device is configured to apply a first temperature profile to preforms passing through the first preform path. The first heating device includes a first distribution device configured to selectively distribute preforms passing through at least a portion of the first preform path. The second heating device has a second preform path, where the second heating device is configured to apply a second temperature profile to preforms passing through the second preform path. The second heating device includes a second distribution device configured to selectively distribute preforms passing through at least a portion of the second preform path. The first transfer device is configured to selectively transfer preforms between the first preform path of the first heating device and the second preform path of the second heating device.

[0015] Methods of using a system for generating a plurality of preform temperature profiles are provided. The method can include transferring a preform between a first preform path of a first heating device and a second preform path of a second heating device using a first transfer device. The method can also include dispensing a first preform at a first temperature profile through at least a portion of the first preform path and dispensing a second preform at a second temperature profile through at least a portion of the second preform path.

[0016] Systems for blow molding a container from a preform are provided, the system including a blow molding system and a system for generating a plurality of preform temperature profiles. The blow molding system can include a mold configured to receive a preform and a device for delivering a pressurized fluid to the preform received in the mold to inflate the preform into a container conforming to an inner surface of the mold. The system for generating a plurality of preform temperature profiles can include a first heating device, a second heating device, and a first transfer device, according to the description, wherein the first dispensing device is configured to selectively dispense a preform through at least a portion of the first preform path to the mold of the blow molding system, and the second dispensing device is configured to selectively dispense a preform through at least a portion of the second preform path to the mold of the blow molding system.

[0017] Methods of using a system for blow molding a container from a preform are provided. The method can include transferring a preform between a first preform path of a first heating device and a second preform path of a second heating device using a first transfer device. The method can also include dispensing a first preform at a first temperature profile through at least a portion of the first preform path and dispensing a second preform at a second temperature profile through at least a portion of the second preform path. One or more preforms dispensed from the first heating device and / or the second heating device can be received by a mold in sequence, respectively, wherein a pressurized fluid is delivered to the mold to inflate the preform into a container conforming to an inner surface of the mold.

[0018] Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0019] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 1 is a partial schematic top view of an embodiment of a system for heating a preform according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 2 is a partial schematic front view of a system for heating a preform. Figure 1

[0022] Figure 3 is a partial schematic rear view of a system for heating a preform. Figure 1

[0023] Figure 4 is a schematic view of a system for blow molding a container from a heated preform according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Wherever applicable, throughout some of the figures of the attached drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The following description of the technology is merely exemplary in nature of one or more embodiments, manufacture and use thereof, and is not intended to limit the scope, application, or uses of any specific embodiments claimed by this application or patents issuing thereon. Regarding methods disclosed, the order of steps presented is exemplary herein, and thus steps can be executed in any order, including simultaneously or in reverse order, depending on the circumstances, unless explicitly claimed otherwise or understood from the specification. As used herein, "or" means "and / or" unless clearly indicated otherwise or understood from the specification. Also, as used herein, "a" and "an" mean "one or more" unless clearly indicated otherwise or understood from the specification. All numerical values of parameters (e.g., of quantities or conditions) in this specification, unless otherwise indicated, are approximations as varied slightly from the values stated (practically, commercially, and otherwise). All percentages are calculated by weight unless otherwise indicated. All geometric and spatial descriptions are used for purposes of illustration only, and thus can not necessarily describe absolute geometric or spatial relationships. All numerical values of parameters (e.g., of quantities or conditions) in this specification that are not recited in a claim can be approximations that can depend on the requirements of the technologies, e.g., limits of a reagent or instrument. At the very least, therefore, numerical parameters set forth in the detailed description are approximations that can vary from the numerical values stated in the specification and claims. Unless otherwise stated, all percentages, ratios, and other quantities that can be found in the specification and / or in the claims are approximate values that can have normal variations (e.g., due to measuring or other errors, or changes in quantity of a component over the course of a reaction or process). Unless otherwise stated, all geometric and spatial descriptions are used for purposes of illustration only, and thus can not necessarily describe absolute geometric or spatial relationships. All numerical values of parameters (e.g., of quantities or conditions) in this specification that are not recited in a claim can be approximations that can depend on the requirements of the technologies, e.g., limits of a reagent or instrument. At the very least, therefore, numerical parameters set forth in the detailed description are approximations that can vary from the numerical values stated in the specification and claims. Unless otherwise stated, all percentages, ratios, and other quantities that can be found in the specification and / or in the claims are approximate values that can have normal variations (e.g., due to measuring or other errors, or changes in quantity of a component over the course of a reaction or process). Unless otherwise stated, all geometric and spatial descriptions are used for purposes of illustration only, and thus can not necessarily describe absolute geometric or spatial relationships.

[0026] All documents cited in the present detailed description, including patents, patent applications and scientific literature, are hereby incoφorated by reference unless otherwise indicated. In the event of any conflict between the cited documents and the present detailed description, the present detailed description shall control.

[0027] ​​Although the open-ended term "comprising," as a synonym for the non-limiting terms such as including, containing, or having, is used herein to describe and claim embodiments of the present technology, embodiments can also be described and claimed using more limiting language such as "consisting of" or "consisting essentially of." Thus, for any given embodiment reciting materials, components, or process steps, the present technology also specifically includes embodiments consisting of, or consisting essentially of, such materials, components or process steps alone or in combination with additional materials, components or process steps, even if such additional materials, components or process steps are not expressly identified in the application. For example, the embodiment reciting that an element can be used "consisting of" elements A, B, and C is intended to cover embodiments consisting of A, B, and C, as well as those consisting essentially of A, B, and C, but excluding additional elements D, even if D is not explicitly described in the application. In addition, the term "comprising" is used herein to mean that other elements can also be present. In other words, "comprising" does not mean "consisting of" or "consisting essentially of."

[0028] As described herein, the scope of the disclosure includes endpoints and includes all values and further subdivisions between the endpoints, unless specified otherwise. Thus, for example, a range from A to B or from about A to about B includes A and B. Disclosure of a value and of a range of values for a given parameter (e.g., an amount, a weight percent, etc.) does not exclude from the scope of the present technology other values and ranges of values useful herein. It is contemplated that two or more specific example values for a given parameter can define the endpoints of a range of values for which the parameter can be claimed. For example, if a parameter X is exemplified herein as having a value of A and is also exemplified as having a value of Z, it is contemplated that parameter X can have a range of values from about A to about Z. Similarly, it is contemplated that two or more ranges of values for a disclosed parameter (whether such ranges are nested, overlapping, or distinct) include all possible ranges of values that can be claimed using the endpoints of the disclosed ranges. For example, if a range of values for parameter X is exemplified herein as 1-10, 2-9, or 3-8, it is also contemplated that parameter X can have other ranges of values, including 1-9, 1-8, 1-3, 1-2, 2-10, 2-8, 2-3, 3-10, 3-9, etc.

[0029] When an element or layer is referred to as being “on”, “engaged to”, “connected to” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it can be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers can be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on”, “directly engaged to”, “directly connected to” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directly between”, “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent”, etc.). As used herein, the term “and / or” includes all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0030] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. can be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms, such as “first”, “second”, and other numerical terms as used herein do not connote a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example implementations.

[0031] Spatially relative terms, such as “inner”, “outer”, “beneath”, “below”, “lower”, “above”, “upper”, and the like, can be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature’s relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms can be inclusive - the

[0032] The present technology is introduced into a system that produces multiple preform temperature profiles and a method of using such a system, particularly for blow molding containers from preforms. The system can include multiple heating devices (including a first heating device and a second heating device) and one or more transfer devices (e.g., a first transfer device). The first heating device can have a first preform path and can be configured to apply a first temperature profile to preforms passing through the first preform path. The first heating device can include a first distribution device configured to selectively distribute preforms passing through at least a portion of the first preform path. The second heating device can have a second preform path and can be configured to apply a second temperature profile to preforms passing through the second preform path. The second heating device can include a second distribution device configured to selectively distribute preforms passing through at least a portion of the second preform path. The first transfer device can be configured to selectively transfer preforms between the first preform path of the first heating device and the second preform path of the second heating device.

[0033] The multiple heating devices employed in the system can include the following aspects. The first heating device can include a first infrared furnace, the second heating device can include a second infrared furnace, or the first heating device and the second heating device can each include an infrared furnace. Other heating modules or furnaces can be used, including various ways of providing thermal energy to the preforms. Direct and / or indirect (e.g., reflected) thermal energy can be applied by the heating devices. Multidirectional application of thermal energy can be used, as well as moving, rotating, or turning the preforms themselves around various thermal radiation sources in the various heating devices.

[0034] In certain embodiments, one or more of the heating devices provided herein can include aspects of the “Control method for the thermal state of a furnace for preforms and air cooling device mounted to such a furnace” provided by Derrien in U.S. Patent No. 10,493,686 B2, published December 3, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference. For example, one or more of the heating devices provided herein can include the furnace described by Derrien in U.S. Patent No. 10,493,686 B2, and can include such furnaces coupled to one another side-by-side and by a transfer device configured to selectively transfer preforms therebetween. Certain space-saving embodiments of the present technology include multiple heating devices arranged vertically (e.g., stacked on one another), which can take the form of stacked furnaces, each furnace generally configured in accordance with Derrien in U.S. Patent No. 10,493,686 B2, with a transfer device between successive stacked furnaces.

[0035] Various distribution devices employed in the system can include the following aspects. A first distribution device can include a first transfer wheel, a second distribution device can include a second transfer wheel, or the first and second distribution mechanisms can each include a transfer wheel. Such distribution devices can distribute heated preforms (including multiple preforms heated to different temperature profiles) into one or more molds in which the preforms can be blow molded into containers. The distribution devices can include or work in conjunction with various types of conveyors or preform handling equipment to unload heated preforms from various heating devices to other equipment and / or directly to one or more blow molds.

[0036] Various transfer devices employed in the system can include the following aspects. A first transfer device can include a transfer wheel, where the transfer wheel can selectively transfer preforms between a first preform path of a first heating device and a second preform path of a second heating device. For example, certain preforms can pass through the first preform path to obtain a particular temperature profile from which they are distributed, while other preforms can be transferred from the first preform path to the second preform path, or vice versa, such that such preforms are subjected to heating by the first and second heating components prior to distribution from the first or second heating devices to obtain another temperature profile. The first and second preform paths can also have different lengths such that preforms traveling therein are subjected to different temperature profiles. Preforms can also be transferred multiple times between various heating devices by the transfer device. Thus, the length of the various preform paths associated with the various heating devices, the characteristics of the heat energy applied by the various heating devices, the time spent within the various heating devices can provide preforms having various temperature profiles in each combination.

[0037] The system can include one or more preform loaders. For example, each heating device can be configured with a preform loader configured to deliver unheated preforms thereto, or only certain heating devices can be configured with respective preform loaders, as preforms can be selectively transferred therebetween using one or more transfer devices. In certain embodiments, a first preform loader can be configured to deliver unheated preforms to the first heating device and / or a second preform loader can be configured to deliver unheated preforms to the second heating device. Different types of preforms can be delivered into the system via different preform loaders and / or substantially similar preforms can be delivered to different heating devices to achieve different temperature profiles for different molds, pressurized fluids, and / or blow molding conditions.

[0038] As previously described, the systems provided herein can also include additional heating devices. In particular embodiments, a third heating device having a third preform path can be provided, where the third heating device can be configured to apply a third temperature profile to preforms passing through the third preform path. The third heating device can also include a third distribution device configured to selectively distribute preforms passing through at least a portion of the third preform path. A second transfer device can be included that is configured to selectively transfer preforms between the second preform path of the second heating device and the third preform path of the third heating device. Thus, in certain embodiments, a particular preform can be caused to travel through at least a portion of the first preform path, at least a portion of the second preform path, and at least a portion of the third preform path. A third preform loader can be included that is configured to deliver unheated preforms to the third heating device.

[0039] The systems described herein can be used in various ways to produce one or more preform temperature profiles of one or more preforms, including preforms in which blow molding operations are performed. For example, a method of using such a system can include transferring preforms between a first preform path of a first heating device and a second preform path of a second heating device using a first transfer device. Such a method can also include distributing first preforms at a first temperature profile through at least a portion of the first preform path and / or distributing second preforms at a second temperature profile through at least a portion of the second preform path. As such, the described systems can be used to produce multiple preform temperature profiles.

[0040] Systems for blow molding containers from preforms are provided that include, in addition to systems for generating a plurality of preform temperature profiles, a blow molding system. In particular, the blow molding system can include a mold configured to receive a preform and a device for delivering pressurized fluid to the preform received in the mold to inflate the preform into a container that conforms to the inner surface of the mold. The pressurized fluid can be a gas (e.g., air) or can be a liquid (e.g., a product intended to remain within the final container). The system for generating a plurality of preform temperature profiles can have a first distribution device configured to selectively distribute preforms that pass through at least a portion of a first preform path to the mold of the blow molding system and a second distribution device configured to selectively distribute preforms that pass through at least a portion of a second preform path to the mold of the blow molding system. Thus, various ways of using the blow molding system are possible. The present technology also contemplates the sequential production of various containers derived from preforms heated to different temperature profiles, including preforms of different structures that require different heating schemes to prepare for blow molding into a final container; for example, preforms of different sizes, shapes, or thicknesses formed from or including different polymers or polymer combinations, layers, etc.

[0041] Benefits and advantages of the present technology can include the following aspects. The juxtaposition and stacking of multiple heating devices (e.g., ovens stacked vertically) can provide heated preforms via a compact system with less footprint relative to other systems. The ability to transfer preforms between multiple heating devices can increase the heat energy absorption time for certain preform types; for example, non-PET preforms as compared to PET preforms. The selective transfer of preforms and controlled distribution between and from the multiple heating devices provides unique ways of handling different preforms and allows for flexible stock keeping unit (SKU) management. For example, the system can include one or more barcode readers to track the loading location of a preform as it enters the system from one or more loaders and make certain progressions through the path including portions of one or more heating devices. The ability to flexibly handle a mixture of multiple types of preforms further allows for maintaining blow molding continuity or high throughput.

[0042] A variety of types of blow molding operations can be employed. Blow molding can include injection blow molding, in which the precursor includes a preform. The blow molding operation can optionally include longitudinal stretching of the preform; for example, injection stretch blow molding, in which a stretch rod is used to longitudinally extend the preform prior to or concurrent with inflation of the preform by a pressurized fluid to conform to a container mold. Blow molding can include injection of a gas into a preform to inflate the preform, or injection of a liquid product to inflate the preform, where the liquid product can remain within the container as a final product. The present technology also includes various systems and system components having the features provided herein. The present technology provides various articles of manufacture, including various process products.

[0043] It should be understood that the present technology can be used in conjunction with other container manufacturing methods, and can be used with a variety of preform, precursor, and container materials, including, for example, thermoplastic, high-density polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), PET / PEN blends or copolymers, and various multi-layer structures that can be suitable for use in manufacturing plastic containers and that incorporate the principles described herein. While the present disclosure contemplates the production of PET containers, it should be understood that other polyolefin materials (e.g., polyethylene, polypropylene, polyesters, etc.) and many other plastics can also be processed using the present technology.

[0044] Examples

[0045] Reference Figures 1 to 3 According to one embodiment of the present invention, a preform heating system 10 for generating a plurality of preform temperature profiles is disclosed. The system 10 is shown for heating preforms 5 having threaded necks, collars, and closures depending from the collars, but the system 10 can be configured for use with any of a variety of different configurations of preforms while remaining within the scope of the present invention.

[0046] The preform heating system 10 includes a first heating device 11 and a second heating device 12. The first heating device 11 defines a first preform path along which each preform 5 can be selectively transported during operation of the system 10, and the second heating device 12 defines a second preform path along which each preform 5 can be selectively transported during operation of the system 10. In the example provided, the first preform path is defined by a first transport system 21, and the second preform path is defined by a second transport system 22.

[0047] Each transport system 21, 22 can be represented as a conveyor system having elements such as chains or a conveyor belt that form a closed loop, where each transport system 21, 22 can loop around at least two wheels that drive the motion of the transport system 21, 22. In some embodiments, each transport system 21, 22 can be driven by the same drive component as desired. The same drive component can be configured to drive the transport systems 21, 22 in the same direction or in opposite directions, and can also be configured to drive the transport systems 21, 22 at different speeds. Each transport system 21, 22 can be associated with suitable structures for achieving the desired transport speed and the desired transport direction of each respective transport system 21, 22.

[0048] Each transport system 21, 22 also includes a plurality of spaced-apart gripping devices 24, where each gripping device 24 is configured to maintain a desired configuration of one preform 5 during transport of the preform 5 around the respective transport system 21, 22. As shown in the figures, the gripping devices 24 can be configured to grip the portion of each preform 5 that is formed on the side of the collar having the threaded finish of the preform 5, thereby allowing the closed portion of each preform 5 to extend away from the collar and the gripping devices 24 to be heated by the respective one of the heating devices 11, 12. The gripping devices 24 can also be configured to selectively re-orient or re-position each preform 5 as desired as the preform 5 passes through the respective heating device 11, 12.

[0049] The first transport system 21 is shown as forming a closed loop shape that includes a first linear segment 21a, a first reverse segment 21b, a second linear segment 21c, and a second reverse segment 21d. The second transport system 22 is similarly shown as forming a closed loop shape that includes a first linear segment 22a, a first reverse segment 22b, a second linear segment 22c, and a second reverse segment 22d. As shown by the arrows in Figure 2 and Figure 3 Each of the reverse segments 21b, 21d, 22b, 22d forms a portion of the respective transport system 21, 22 in which the direction of travel of each preform 5 is reversed. As such, each preform 5 is configured to travel in a direction opposite to the direction in which each preform 5 is configured to travel along the second linear segment 21c, 22c of each of the respective transport systems 21 and 22. The reversal of the direction of travel of each preform 5 can also correspond to a reversal of the orientation of each preform 5, such as reversing each preform 5 from a downwardly depending configuration to an upwardly extending configuration, as shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3 .

[0050] The first heating device 11 may include at least one infrared furnace for applying a first temperature profile to each preform 5 passing through at least a portion of the first preform path defined by the first transport system 21. In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one infrared furnace includes a first furnace group 51 spaced apart from each other along a first linear segment 21a of the first transport system 21 and a second furnace group 52 spaced apart from each other along a second linear segment 21c of the first transport system 21. The first furnace group 51 includes a first furnace 51a, a second furnace 51b, a third furnace 51c, and a fourth furnace 51d arranged sequentially along the first linear segment 21a in the travel direction of the preform 5. The second furnace group 52 includes a first furnace 52a, a second furnace 52b, a third furnace 52c, and a fourth furnace 52d arranged sequentially along the second linear segment 21c in the travel direction of the preform 5. However, each furnace group 51, 52 may include any number of furnaces as needed for applying the desired first temperature profile to each preform 5 passing through at least a portion of the first preform path defined by the first transport system 21.

[0051] The second heating device 12 may similarly include at least one infrared furnace for applying a second temperature profile to each preform 5 passing through at least a portion of the second preform path defined by the second transport system 22. In the illustrated embodiment, at least one infrared furnace includes a first furnace group 53 spaced apart from each other along a first linear segment 22a of the second transport system 22 and a second furnace group 54 spaced apart from each other along a second linear segment 22c of the second transport system 22. The first furnace group 53 includes a first furnace 53a, a second furnace 53b, a third furnace 53c, and a fourth furnace 53d arranged sequentially along the first linear segment 22a in the travel direction of the preform 5. The second furnace group 54 includes a first furnace 54a, a second furnace 54b, a third furnace 54c, and a fourth furnace 54d arranged sequentially along the second linear segment 22c in the travel direction of the preform 5. However, each furnace group 53, 54 may include any number of furnaces as needed for applying the desired second temperature profile to each preform 5 passing through at least a portion of the second preform path defined by the second transport system 22.

[0052] like Figure 2 As shown, the first preform loader 25 can be configured to transport one of a plurality of unheated preforms to the first heating device 11 via a first transfer system 21 that transfers preforms 5 from the first preform loader 25 to the first heating device 11. More specifically, the first preform loader 25 can be configured to transport one of the plurality of preforms 5 to the upstream end of a first linear segment 21a of the first transfer system 21, the upstream end being formed at the intersection of the first linear segment 21a and the second reverse segment 21d of the first transfer system 21.

[0053] The first preform loader 25 may include at least one clamping device 26 configured to clamp each preform 5 as it is transported to the first transfer system 21, and to transfer preforms 5 between one clamping device 26 of the first preform loader 25 and one clamping device 24 of the first transfer system 20. The clamping device 24 of the first transfer system 21 and the clamping device 26 of the first preform loader 25 may include complementary structures for transferring preforms 5 between them.

[0054] In the provided embodiment, the first preform loader 25 is shown as a transfer wheel configured to rotate about its axis of rotation, with a plurality of clamping devices 26 distributed around the periphery of the transfer wheel. However, without departing from the scope of the invention, the first preform loader 25 can be formed by any mechanism or device having the structure required to transport the preform 5 to the first transfer system 21, such as a robotic arm, a conveyor system, a guide rail system, etc. The first preform loader 25 can also represent a plurality of components or mechanisms that operate in combination with each other as needed to transport the preform 5 to the first heating device 11.

[0055] like Figure 3 As shown, the second preform loader 27 can be similarly configured to transport one of a plurality of unheated preforms to the second heating device 12 via a second transfer system 22 that transfers preforms 5 from the second preform loader 27 to the second heating device 11. More specifically, the second preform loader 27 can be configured to transport one of the plurality of preforms 5 to the downstream end of the first linear segment 22a of the second transfer system 22, the downstream end being formed at the intersection of the first linear segment 22a and the first reverse segment 22b of the second transfer system 22.

[0056] The second preform loader 27 may include at least one clamping device 28 configured to clamp each preform 5 as it is transported to the second transfer system 22, and may transfer preforms 5 between one clamping device 28 of the second preform loader 27 and one clamping device 24 of the second transfer system 22. The clamping device 24 of the second transfer system 22 and the clamping device 28 of the second preform loader 27 may include complementary structures for transferring preforms 5 between them.

[0057] In the provided embodiments, the second preform loader 27 is also shown as a transfer wheel configured to rotate about its axis of rotation, with a plurality of gripping devices 28 distributed around the periphery of the transfer wheel. However, without departing from the scope of the present application, the second preform loader 27 can be formed by any mechanism or device having the structure required to transport the preforms 5 to the second transfer system 22, such as a robotic arm, a conveyor system, a rail system, etc. The second preform loader 27 can also represent a plurality of components or mechanisms operating in conjunction with each other as required to transport the preforms 5 to the second heating device 12.

[0058] As shown in Figure 1 The system 10 can also include at least one transfer device 40 for selectively transferring one preform 5 between the first preform path of the first heating device 11 and the second preform path of the second heating device 12. Each of the at least one transfer device 40 can include at least one gripping device 41 configured to grip each preform 5 when transferring the preform 5 between the first preform path and the second preform path formed by the first and second transfer systems 21, 22. The gripping devices 41 of the at least one transfer device 40 can include a structure complementary to the gripping devices 24 of each of the first and second transfer systems 21, 22 to facilitate the handover of the preforms 5 therebetween.

[0059] In the provided embodiments, the at least one transfer device 40 is shown as a single transfer wheel configured to rotate about its axis of rotation, with a plurality of gripping devices 41 distributed around the periphery of the transfer wheel. However, without departing from the scope of the present application, the transfer device 40 can be formed by any mechanism or device having the structure required to transfer the preforms 5 between the first and second transfer systems 21, 22, such as a robotic arm, a conveyor system, a rail system, etc. The transfer device 40 can also represent a plurality of components or mechanisms operating in conjunction with each other as required to transfer the preforms 5.

[0060] In the provided embodiments, the transfer device 40 is shown as transferring the preforms 5 between the downstream end of the second linear segment 21c of the first transfer system 21 and the upstream end of the second linear segment 22c of the second transfer system 22. However, as explained in greater detail below with reference to Figure 4 Each of the at least one transfer device 40 can be configured to transfer the preforms 5 between any position of the first preform path and any position of the second preform path as required, while remaining within the scope of the present application.

[0061] The system 10 comprises a first distribution device 31 configured to distribute heated preforms coming from a first preform path defined by the first transfer system 21. Each preform 5 distributed by the first distribution device 30 can be distributed to a mold station where a blow-molding operation is carried out, as explained with reference to Figure 4 The first distribution device 31 is shown as a transfer wheel having at least one gripping device 33 distributed around its periphery. Each gripping device 33 can be configured to grip each preform 5 as it is distributed from the first preform path formed by the first transfer system 21. The gripping devices 33 of the first distribution device 31 can comprise a structure complementary to the gripping devices 24 of the first transfer system 21 to facilitate the transfer of the preforms 5 therebetween.

[0062] In the provided embodiment, the first distribution device 31 is configured to distribute heated preforms from the first preform path at the downstream end of the second linear segment 21c of the first transfer system 21. However, as explained with reference to Figure 4 The first distribution device 31 can be configured to distribute heated preforms from any location on the first preform path while remaining within the scope of the present invention.

[0063] The system 10 further comprises a second distribution device 32 configured to distribute heated preforms coming from a second preform path defined by the second transfer system 22. Each preform 5 distributed by the second distribution device 32 can be distributed to a mold station where a blow-molding operation is carried out, as explained with reference to Figure 4 The second distribution device 32 is shown as a transfer wheel having at least one gripping device 34 distributed around its periphery. Each gripping device 34 can be configured to grip each preform 5 as it is distributed from the second preform path formed by the second transfer system 22. The gripping devices 34 of the second distribution device 32 can comprise a structure complementary to the gripping devices 24 of the second transfer system 22 to facilitate the transfer of the preforms 5 therebetween.

[0064] In the provided embodiment, the second distribution device 32 is configured to distribute heated preforms from the second preform path at the upstream end of the second linear segment 22c of the second transfer system 22. However, as explained with reference to Figure 4 The second distribution device 32 can be configured to distribute heated preforms from any location on the second preform path as desired while remaining within the scope of the present invention.

[0065] In operation, preforms 5 can be introduced and loaded to the first heating device 11 via transfer of the preforms 5 from the first preform loader 25 to the first transfer system 21. The preforms 5 can then pass through at least a portion of the first preform path where the preforms 5 are heated by the first heating device 11. The preforms 5 can then be selectively dispensed by the first dispensing device 31 or can be re-transferred to the second preform path via the at least one transfer device 40. Those preforms 5 transferred from the first preform path to the second preform path can pass through at least a portion of the second preform path where the preforms 5 are heated by the second heating device 12. The preforms 5 transferred to the second preform path can be selectively dispensed from the second preform path via the second dispensing device 32 or can be returned to the first preform path via the at least one transfer device 40.

[0066] Preforms 5 can also be introduced and loaded to the second heating device 12 via transfer of the preforms 5 from the second preform loader 27 to the second transfer system 22. These preforms 5 can pass through at least a portion of the second preform path before being dispensed by the second dispensing device 32 or transferred to the first preform path by the at least one transfer device 40.

[0067] Accordingly, the configuration of the disclosed system 10 allows for the introduction of preforms 5 via either of the preform loaders 25, 27 to selectively pass through at least a portion of one or both of the heating devices 11, 12 and be dispensed from either of the dispensing devices 31, 32 when each preform 5 reaches a desired temperature profile.

[0068] Referring now to Figure 4 , a system 200 for blow molding containers from heated preforms according to one embodiment of the present application is schematically disclosed. The system 200 includes an improved preform heating system 110 and a blow molding system 95. The preform heating system 110 is substantially similar to the preform heating system 10, except that the preform heating system 110 includes a third heating device 13 in addition to the previously disclosed first and second heating devices 11, 12. The third transfer system 23 of the third heating device 13 defines a third preform path along which a preform can obtain a third temperature profile after passing through at least a portion of the third preform path. The third transfer system 23 is shown as including a first linear segment 23a, a first reverse segment 23b, a second linear segment 23c, and a second reverse segment 23d for forming a closed loop shape.

[0069] The third heating device 13 can comprise at least one infrared furnace arranged along one or both of its linear segments 23a, 23c. In particular, the third heating device 13 can comprise a first furnace group along the first linear segment 23a and a second furnace group along the second linear segment 23c, wherein each group can comprise a configuration similar to the groups 51, 52, 53, 54 disclosed in relation to the first and second heating devices 11, 12.

[0070] A first preform loader 25 is configured to load preforms to the first heating device 11, a second preform loader 27 is configured to load preforms to the second heating device 12, and a third preform loader 29 is configured to load preforms to the third heating device 13. The third preform loader 29 can be a transfer wheel having a similar structure to the preform loaders 25, 27. A first transfer device 40 is configured to transfer preforms between the first heating device 11 and the second heating device 12, and a second transfer device 42 is configured to transfer preforms between the second heating device 12 and the third heating device 13. A first distribution device 31 is configured to distribute preforms from the first heating device 11 to the mould station 95, a second distribution device 32 is configured to distribute preforms from the second heating device 12 to the mould station 95, and a third distribution device 35 is configured to distribute preforms from the third heating device 13 to the mould station 95. The third distribution device 35 can comprise a transfer wheel in a similar form to the distribution devices 31, 32.

[0071] The blow moulding system 95 comprises at least one mould 96 configured to receive a preform and at least one device 97 for delivering pressurised fluid to a preform received in the at least one mould 96 to cause the preform to expand to a container conforming to the inner surface of the at least one mould 96. The blow moulding system 95 can be configured to receive a preform that has been distributed from any one of the heating devices 11, 12, 13.

[0072] The first transport system 21 is shown as comprising a plurality of nodes 71, 72, 73, 74. Nodes 71, 72 are formed at opposite ends of the first linear segment 21a, and nodes 73, 74 are formed at opposite ends of the second linear segment 21c. The second transport system 22 is shown as similarly comprising a plurality of nodes 81, 82, 83, 84. Nodes 81, 82 are formed at opposite ends of the first linear segment 22a, and nodes 83, 84 are formed at opposite ends of the second linear segment 22c. Finally, the third transport system 23 is shown as similarly comprising a plurality of nodes 91, 92, 93, 94. Nodes 91, 92 are formed at opposite ends of the first linear segment 23a, and nodes 93, 94 are formed at opposite ends of the second linear segment 23c.

[0073] Figure 4Each node 71, 72, 73, 74, 81, 82, 83, 84, 91, 92, 93, 94 shown in the middle corresponds to a possible position in which one of the preforms can be loaded to one of the heating devices 11, 12, 13, transferred away from one of the heating devices 11, 12, 13 or to one of these heating devices and / or dispensed from one of the heating devices 11, 12, 13. Thus, as Figure 4 shown, the specific configuration of the preform loaders 25, 27, 29, the transfer devices 40, 42 and the dispensing devices 31, 32, 35 is non-limiting. The position of these components can be changed to take into account the application of different temperature profiles to the preforms.

[0074] The system 110 is also not limited to one loader 25, 27, 29, one transfer device 40, 42 or one dispensing device 31, 32, 35 associated with each heating device 11, 12, 13. Each heating device 11, 12, 13 can be associated with as many components as necessary to establish the path required for each preform, each preform possibly involving sections passing through a plurality of different heating devices 11, 12, 13 before being dispensed to the blow molding system 95.

[0075] The system 110 also comprises, as Figure 4 shown, different lengths of linear sections 21a, 21c, 22a, 22c, 23a, 23c of the different transport systems 21, 22, 23. These different lengths can be indicative of different heating capabilities of each heating device 11, 12, 13. For example, assuming that each furnace forming each respective furnace group comprises substantially similar characteristics, the increased length of the linear sections 22a, 22c of the second transport system 22 compared to the linear sections 21a, 21c of the first transport system 21 can be related to a greater number of furnaces forming each furnace group along each linear section 22a, 22c compared to the linear sections 21a, 21c. Similarly, the increased length of the linear sections 23a, 23c of the third transport system 23 compared to the linear sections 22a, 22c of the second transport system 22 can be related to a greater number of furnaces forming each furnace group along each linear section 23a, 23c compared to the linear sections 22a, 22c. This variation in heating capabilities of the different heating devices 11, 12, 13 can be provided in view of the different temperature profiles required for the preforms with respect to the different heating devices 11, 12, 13.

[0076] Each transport system 21, 22, 23 can also advantageously be driven by a single drive shaft 18 operatively coupled to each transport system 21, 22, 23, thereby simplifying the operation of the system 110.

[0077] The example implementations are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure implementations. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be used to implement the present disclosure implementations. Well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the present disclosure implementations. Equivalent changes, modifications and variations can be made to certain implementations, materials, compositions and methods without departing substantially from the spirit and essential characteristics thereof.

Claims

1. A system for generating temperature profiles of multiple preforms, the system comprising: A first heating device having a first preform path, the first heating device being configured to apply a first temperature profile to a preform passing through the first preform path, the first heating device including a first dispensing device configured to selectively dispense a preform passing through at least a portion of the path of the first preform path. A second heating device having a second preform path, the second heating device being configured to apply a second temperature profile to a preform passing through the second preform path, the second heating device including a second dispensing device configured to selectively dispense a preform passing through at least a portion of the path of the second preform. as well as A first transfer device is configured to selectively transfer a preform between the first preform path of the first heating device and the second preform path of the second heating device. The first preform path is defined by a first transport system, and the second preform path is defined by a second transport system, wherein the first transport system includes a first transport element forming a first closed loop, and the second transport system includes a second transport element forming a second closed loop. The first dispensing device is configured to selectively dispense a preform through at least a portion of the first preform path to the blow molding system; and The second dispensing device is configured to selectively dispense a preform through at least a portion of the path of the second preform path to the blow molding system.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The first heating device includes a first infrared furnace.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein, The second heating device includes a second infrared furnace.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The first dispensing device includes a first transfer wheel.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein, The second dispensing device includes a second transfer wheel.

6. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The first transfer device includes a transfer wheel.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The first heating device includes at least one infrared furnace, and the second heating device includes at least one infrared furnace, wherein the second heating device includes more infrared furnaces than the first heating device.

8. The system according to claim 7, wherein, The path of the second preform is longer than that of the first preform.

9. The system of claim 1, further comprising a first preform loader configured to transport an unheated preform to the first heating device.

10. The system of claim 9, further comprising a second preform loader configured to transport an unheated preform to the second heating device.

11. The system according to claim 1, further comprising: A third heating device having a third preform path, the third heating device being configured to apply a third temperature profile to a preform passing through the third preform path, the third heating device including a third dispensing device configured to selectively dispense preforms passing through at least a portion of the path of the third preform path. as well as The second transfer device is configured to selectively transfer the preform between the second preform path of the second heating device and the third preform path of the third heating device.

12. The system of claim 11, further comprising a first preform loader configured to transport an unheated preform to the first heating device; a second preform loader configured to transport an unheated preform to the second heating device; and a third preform loader configured to transport an unheated preform to the third heating device.

13. A method of using the system according to claim 1, the method comprising: The first transfer device is used to transfer the preform between the first preform path of the first heating device and the second preform path of the second heating device.

14. A method of using the system according to claim 1, the method comprising: Assigning a first preform at a first temperature profile through at least a portion of the path of the first preform; as well as The second preform is assigned to at least a portion of the path of the second preform and is located at the second temperature profile.

15. A system for blow molding containers from preforms, the system comprising: Blow molding system, the blow molding system comprising: Mold, configured to receive preforms; and A device for conveying pressurized fluid to a preform received in the mold, so as to cause the preform to expand into a container conforming to the inner surface of the mold; and A system for generating temperature profiles of multiple preforms, the system comprising: A first heating device having a first preform path, the first heating device being configured to apply a first temperature profile to a preform passing through the first preform path, the first heating device including a first dispensing device being configured to selectively dispense a preform passing through at least a portion of the first preform path to the mold of the blow molding system. A second heating device having a second preform path, the second heating device being configured to apply a second temperature profile to a preform passing through the second preform path, the second heating device including a second dispensing device configured to selectively dispense at least a portion of the preform passing through the second preform path to the mold of the blow molding system; and A first transfer device is configured to selectively transfer a preform between the first preform path of the first heating device and the second preform path of the second heating device. The first preform path is defined by a first transport system, and the second preform path is defined by a second transport system, wherein the first transport system includes a first transport element forming a first closed loop, and the second transport system includes a second transport element forming a second closed loop. The first dispensing device is configured to selectively dispense a preform through at least a portion of the first preform path to the blow molding system; and The second dispensing device is configured to selectively dispense a preform through at least a portion of the path of the second preform path to the blow molding system.

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