Device and method for filling containers

Abstract

The invention relates in particular to a device (10A to 10D) for filling containers (12), preferably for filling carousel, having a filling valve (14) for outputting a liquid to the container (12) and a transfer unit (16) which is positionable below the filling valve (14) and has a liquid filling channel (30) for receiving the liquid of the filling valve (14) and outputting it to the container (12) and at least one gas channel (32) for evacuating the container (12) and / or for pre-pressurizing the container (12) and / or for conducting back gas from the container (12).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for filling containers and a method for operating the apparatus for filling containers. Background Technology

[0002] Different technologies can be used in filling devices such as filler turntables for filling containers. For example, full-jet filling systems, free-jet filling systems, or squeeze filling systems, such as wall-mounted filling systems, can be used.

[0003] In a full-jet filling system, for example, a full-jet / free-jet filling valve can be used to fill stationary beverages. Here, it is not necessary to press the bottle firmly onto the filling valve. Return gas can flow from the container to the surrounding space. If, for example, a full-jet system is used to fill carbonated or carbonated beverages, the container can be pressed firmly onto the filling valve. The necessary gas guides for directing pressurized gas and return gas from the filling mechanism to or from the container are integrated into the filling valve. The return gas path is arranged in the filling valve on the side of the filling jet outlet.

[0004] In wall-filling systems, containers are pressed against the filling valve for wall filling, whether for stationary or non-carbonated beverages, or for carbonated beverages. The filling valve is specially constructed to enable wall filling, so that the filling jet adheres to the inner circumferential wall of the container as it enters. Necessary gas guides for directing pressurized gas to or from the filling mechanism into the container are integrated within the filling valve.

[0005] In known filling valves or filling mechanisms, pressurized gas is delivered to and from individual containers via a controlled gas path having multiple gas channels constructed within the filling valve, in which one or more control valves are arranged. These control valves are thus, for example, part of a pneumatic control valve device and are controlled by the machine control unit of the filling machine via at least one electrically controllable switching valve. In particular, the return gas channel in filling element devices known in the prior art sometimes experiences high bacterial and / or contaminant loads.

[0006] DE102014109589A1 relates to a filling system for filling containers, the system having a plurality of filling elements, each having a filling material channel with a filling material outlet disposed in a filling element housing, through which liquid filling material flows in a controlled manner via a liquid valve to a corresponding container with its container opening arranged below the filling material outlet during filling, having a vertically movable container support disposed for each filling element for maintaining and creating at least one indirect sealing layer of the corresponding container relative to the filling element, and having a rinsing hood to be disposed on the filling material outlet for cleaning and / or disinfecting the filling element. Each filling element is provided with an extension disposed on the filling material outlet in a sealed position, the extension having a filling material through-hole, thereby extending the filling material channel of the filling element in the extension disposed on the filling material outlet.

[0007] DE102016115891A1 relates to a filling apparatus for filling containers with a filling product, the filling apparatus including a filling device for filling containers with a filling product, wherein a deflection device having an electrostatic field is provided for deflecting the filling product relative to the container.

[0008] Also known from EP3286130B1 is a filling element apparatus for free-jet filling of liquid filling materials without pressure or under pressure.

[0009] The objective of this invention is to provide an improved technique that enables container filling in a simple manner in various modes, such as free jet filling and wall filling. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The task is solved by means of the solution according to the invention. Advantageous further improvements are given in the invention.

[0011] One aspect of this disclosure relates to an apparatus for filling containers, preferably for a filler turntable, having a filling valve (e.g., a full-jet filling valve) for discharging liquid into the container. The apparatus also includes a switching unit (e.g., selectively locating below the filling valve) and having a liquid filling passage for receiving liquid from the filling valve and discharging liquid into the container, and at least one gas passage for evacuating the container and / or pre-pressurizing the container and / or for removing return gas from the container.

[0012] Advantageously, the device enables container filling in a simple and hygienic manner in various modes, namely, liquid filling channels with or without intermediate switching units in the liquid flow path from the filling valve to the container. The device advantageously enables the filling of stationary products by free jet (liquid filling channel without intermediate switching units) at the correspondingly high power of a free jet system, and the filling of carbonated products by pressure filling (e.g., by wall-mounted filling) at the correspondingly high power of a wall-mounted filling system (liquid filling channel with intermediate switching units). Here, for example, fully automatic switching between free jet and wall-mounted filling is also possible. In the case of wall-mounted filling, strongly foaming products can be filled at much higher power than in the case of a free jet filler.

[0013] Advantageously, in this device, the gas guide in the form of at least one gas channel, for example for evacuating the container, delivering pressurized gas to the container, or venting return gas from the container, is no longer integrated into the filling mechanism or filling valve, but rather into the conversion unit. This can be particularly advantageous, for example, in the field of aseptics, because the gas channel does not need to be costly integrated and monitored in the filling mechanism. A purely exemplary aseptic device is referred to here for filling weakly acidic products, wherein the container is not pressed against the filling valve. The gas channel in the filling mechanism must here be constructed and monitored according to the requirements of the aseptic device, even if the aseptic device is only used temporarily. This means increased costs for designing components. Furthermore, monitoring of cleaning and sterilization requires more sensors (temperature monitoring).

[0014] Preferably, the conversion unit can be constructed separately from the filling valve.

[0015] Preferably, the at least one gas channel can be constructed separately from the liquid filling channel.

[0016] For example, the at least one gas channel may have a vacuum channel, a pressurized gas channel, and / or a return gas channel. It is possible that the vacuum channel, the pressurized gas channel, and / or the return gas channel are constructed separately from each other, or at least two of the channels (from two or three channels in total) are integrated with each other, such as a pressurized gas channel and a return gas channel.

[0017] Preferably, the at least one gas channel may have exactly one gas channel (e.g., a pressurized gas channel, a return gas channel, or a vacuum channel), exactly two gas channels (e.g., a pressurized gas channel and a return gas channel, or a pressurized gas channel and a vacuum channel, or a vacuum channel and a return gas channel), or exactly three gas channels (e.g., a pressurized gas channel, a return gas channel, and a vacuum channel).

[0018] In one embodiment, the (outlet) section of the liquid filling channel and the (end) section of the at least one gas channel extend side-by-side or coaxially, wherein, preferably, the section of the liquid filling channel coaxially surrounds, and particularly preferably spirally surrounds, the section of the at least one gas channel. Preferably, this can be particularly advantageous for structural space reasons, wherein the at least one gas channel can be particularly preferably skillfully arranged within the structural space that already exists within the liquid filling channel.

[0019] In another embodiment, the device further includes a pressurized gas source connected to or connectable to the at least one gas channel (e.g., a pressurized gas channel of the at least one gas channel) for delivering pressurized gas. Advantageously, the container can therefore be pre-pressurized through the at least one gas channel before filling.

[0020] In another embodiment, the device further includes a return gas outlet connected to or connectable to the at least one gas passage (e.g., a return gas passage of the at least one gas passage) for discharging return gas. Advantageously, return gas can thus be discharged from the container via the at least one gas passage during container filling.

[0021] In another embodiment, the device also includes a vacuum source connected to or connectable to the at least one gas channel (e.g., a vacuum channel of the at least one gas channel) for evacuating the container. Advantageously, the container can thus be evacuated via the at least one gas channel before filling and, if necessary, before pre-pressurization.

[0022] In another embodiment, the liquid filling channel is configured to convert (or divert or redirect) the liquid received by the filling valve into a filling jet for wall filling and to output the filling jet for wall filling to a container.

[0023] In one embodiment, the liquid filling channel has (e.g., a spiral) vortex-generating section, guiding elements, and / or a flow body that widens along the flow direction, preferably an ableitschirm. Preferably, the vortex-generating section, guiding elements, and / or flow body can be particularly preferably coaxially surrounding a section of the at least one gas channel. Advantageously, this enables wall-mounted filling of the container in a very space-saving manner.

[0024] In another embodiment, the conversion unit can move vertically, preferably by means of an actuator and / or operate independently of the filling valve. Advantageously, the conversion unit can thus be pressed against the container and / or the filling valve.

[0025] In another embodiment, the switching unit may preferably be pressed against the filling valve by means of the vertical movement of the filling valve (e.g., caused by an actuator) and / or the switching unit (e.g., caused by an actuator). Alternatively or additionally, the switching unit may preferably be pressed against the container by means of the vertical movement of the switching unit and / or the container holder of the container.

[0026] Preferably, the conversion unit may have a (e.g., metallic or non-metallic) preferably annular upper sealing surface for pressing onto the filling valve.

[0027] Preferably, the conversion unit may have a lower sealing surface (e.g., metallic or non-metallic) that is preferably annular for pressing onto the container.

[0028] Preferably, the filling valve may have a (e.g., metallic or non-metallic) preferably annular sealing surface for pressing onto the conversion unit.

[0029] In one implementation variation, the filling valve has a movable valve member, preferably with a valve cone, which, when the switching unit is positioned below the filling valve, preferably protrudes into the switching unit (e.g., the liquid filling channel of the switching unit) in the closed position of the filling valve. Preferably, the switching unit may have a recess for the front end of the movable valve member, which is particularly preferably adapted to the shape of the front end. Advantageously, this enables a switching unit with a particularly flat structure.

[0030] In another implementation variation, the conversion unit is movable, pivotable and / or rotatable in order to be positioned below the filling valve, and is preferably guided and / or guided by an actuator.

[0031] In another implementation variation, the filling valve is vertically movable, preferably for pressing against the conversion unit, and / or the device has a container holder for holding the container, which is vertically movable, preferably for pressing against the conversion unit.

[0032] In another embodiment, the device can operate in a first operating mode, preferably a free-jet operating mode, in which the filling valve outputs liquid in a free-jet manner for filling containers, preferably directly (e.g., without an intermediate conversion unit). Alternatively or additionally, the device can operate in a second operating mode, preferably a wall-mounted filling mode, in which the conversion unit is positioned below the filling valve, the liquid filling channel receives liquid from the filling valve and outputs it to a container for filling, preferably a wall-mounted container, and the at least one gas channel draws gas from the container for evacuating the container, and / or the at least one gas channel delivers pressurized gas to the container for pre-pressurizing the container before filling, and / or the at least one gas channel receives and discharges return gas from the container during filling.

[0033] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a method for operating an apparatus for filling containers, preferably as disclosed herein, wherein the method includes: operating the apparatus in a first operating mode, in which a free jet from a filling valve preferably flows directly (e.g., a liquid filling channel without an intermediate switching unit) into a container below the filling valve. The method further includes: operating the apparatus in a second operating mode, in which a switching unit is positioned below the filling valve, the liquid filling channel of the switching unit receiving liquid from the filling valve and outputting liquid to the container, preferably enabling wall-mounted filling of the container, and the switching unit having at least one gas channel through which gas is evacuated from the container before filling, and / or through which pressurized gas is introduced into the container before filling for pre-pressurizing the container, and / or through which return gas is removed from the container during filling. Advantageously, the same advantages, already described for this apparatus, can be achieved using this method.

[0034] In one embodiment, the container is positioned at a distance from the filling valve in a first operating mode (e.g., without an intermediate plug-in conversion unit and / or liquid filling channel), and / or the container, conversion unit, and filling valve are pressed against each other in a second operating mode.

[0035] In another embodiment, a non-carbonated (or stagnant) liquid is filled into a container in a first operating mode, and / or a carbonated liquid is filled into a container in a second operating mode.

[0036] In another embodiment, the method further includes changing from a first operating mode to a second operating mode by preferably moving, preferably shifting, pivoting and / or rotating the switching unit or the liquid filling channel of the switching unit below the filling valve using an actuator.

[0037] In another embodiment, the method further includes: switching from a second operating mode to a first operating mode by preferably moving, preferably pivoting, and / or rotating the switching unit or the liquid filling channel of the switching unit away from the filling valve using an actuator.

[0038] Preferably, in the second operating mode, the liquid filling channel of the conversion unit converts the liquid received by the filling valve into a filling jet for the filling container by means of a (e.g., spiral) vortex generation section, guiding element and / or a flow body widened along the flow direction, preferably a flow guide baffle of the liquid filling channel.

[0039] Preferably, "free-jet filling" is understood within the scope of this disclosure as a filling method in which liquid filling material flows into the container to be filled from a liquid valve in the form of a free-jet or filling material jet, wherein the flow of the filling material is not affected or altered by guiding elements (e.g., baffles, cyclones, short or long filling tubes). Free-jet filling can be performed not only without pressure but also under pressure. In the case of unpressurized free-jet filling, the container may have ambient pressure, wherein the container is typically spaced apart from the filling valve or a designated feed opening rather than being attached to the filling valve. However, if the container is attached to the filling valve with its inlet in the case of unpressurized free-jet filling, a gas path can establish a connection between the internal space of the container and the surrounding environment, thereby enabling unpressurized filling. Preferably, the gas contained in the container and discharged by the beverage flowing into the container is released into the surrounding environment through the gas path. If free-jet filling is carried out at a pressure different from the ambient pressure, which can be higher or lower than the ambient pressure, then the container can be pressed against the filling valve and sealed at its inlet, and then the pressure in the internal space of the container can be adjusted by loading pressurized gas or by loading negative pressure.

[0040] Preferably, a filling method opposite to the previously described free-jet filling is provided, in which liquid filling material can flow from a liquid valve into the container to be filled via guiding elements such as baffles and / or cyclones and / or short or long filling tubes, for example, for wall-mounted filling containers, while influencing the flow of the filling material. The filling method can also be performed not only without pressure but also under pressure.

[0041] The preferred embodiments and features described above in this invention can be combined with each other arbitrarily. Attached Figure Description

[0042] Further details and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings show:

[0043] Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of an apparatus for filling in a first operating mode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0044] Figure 2 Shown in the second operating mode Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the device;

[0045] Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view of an apparatus for filling in a first operating mode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0046] Figure 4 Shown in the second operating mode Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view of the device;

[0047] Figure 5 A schematic cross-sectional view of an apparatus for filling in a first operating mode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0048] Figure 6 Shown in the second operating mode Figure 5 A schematic cross-sectional view of the device; and

[0049] Figure 7 A schematic cross-sectional view of an apparatus for filling in a second operating mode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0050] The embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings are at least partially identical, and therefore similar or identical parts are labeled with the same reference numerals. In describing these embodiments, reference is also made to the description of other embodiments or drawings to avoid repetition.

[0051] List of reference numerals

[0052] 10A to 10D are devices used for filling.

[0053] 12 containers

[0054] 14 Filling valve

[0055] 16 conversion units

[0056] 18 Support Structure

[0057] 20 Container retainers

[0058] 22 Actuators

[0059] 24 Valve components

[0060] 26 Valve seat

[0061] 28 Sealing surface

[0062] 30 Liquid filling channel

[0063] 32 Gas Channels

[0064] 34 Gas Pipelines

[0065] 36 Upper sealing surface

[0066] 38 Lower sealing surface

[0067] 40 recess

[0068] 42 Fluid

[0069] 44 Pressurized gas source

[0070] 46. ​​Return air outlet section

[0071] 48 Vacuum Source Detailed Implementation

[0072] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A device 10A is shown for filling container 12 (only the neck of container 12 is shown) in different operating modes.

[0073] Device 10A (and Figures 3 to 7 The devices 10B to 10D can be included in the filling apparatus of the container handling equipment. The filling apparatus is preferably implemented as a filler turntable. The filling apparatus may have devices 10A to 10D for simultaneously filling multiple containers. For example, devices 10A to 10D may be arranged around the periphery of the filling apparatus implemented as a filler turntable.

[0074] The device 10A has a filling valve 14 and a switching unit 16. Additionally, the device 10A may have a support structure 18, a container holder 20, and an actuator 22.

[0075] The filling valve 14 can dispense liquid (e.g., beverage) for use in filling container 12. The liquid can be dispensed by the filling valve 14 itself as a free jet. The filling valve 14 may have a movable valve member 24 and a valve seat 26.

[0076] Valve member 24 may, for example, have a front valve cone for pressing against and lifting valve seat 26. Valve seat 26 may be conical or frustoconical. Valve member 24 may be movable, preferably mobile, between a closed position (not shown) and an open position (shown) by an actuator (not shown). In the closed position, valve member 24 rests against valve seat 26. In the open position, valve member 24 is spaced apart from valve seat 26. In the open position, a free jet flows from filling valve 14, which may be formed in the gap between filling valve 24 and valve seat 26.

[0077] The actuator of filling valve 14 and all other actuators disclosed herein may be implemented in any manner, such as electromagnetically, pneumatically, or hydraulically.

[0078] The filling valve 14 can be supported by the support structure 18. It is possible that the filling valve 14 can be moved vertically, for example, by means of an actuator (not shown). With this vertical mobility, the filling valve 14 can be pressed against the conversion unit 16 or against the container 12, or the distance between the filling valve 14 and the container 12 can be reduced, without pressing the filling valve 14 against the container 12. Alternatively, the filling valve 14 can be fixedly or immovably mounted, for example, on the support structure 18.

[0079] The filling valve 14 may have a sealing surface 28. The sealing surface 28 may be metallic or non-metallic, for example, made of plastic. Preferably, the sealing surface 28 surrounds the outlet of the filling valve 14. The sealing surface 28 is preferably annular. The sealing surface 28 may preferably be implemented as a surrounding flange section or as a surrounding flange. When the filling valve 14 and the switching unit 16 are pressed against each other, the sealing surface 28 can seal between the filling valve 14 and the switching unit 16.

[0080] The conversion unit 16 has a liquid filling channel 30 and at least one gas channel 32.

[0081] The liquid filling channel 30 can receive liquid and output liquid to the container 12 via the filling valve 14. The liquid filling channel 30 can preferably convert the received liquid into a filling jet for the wall-mounted filling container 12. When the conversion unit 16 or the liquid filling channel 30 is positioned below the filling valve 14, the liquid can be received by the filling valve 14. The liquid filling channel 30 may have an upper inlet for receiving liquid and for being positioned below the filling valve 14. The liquid filling channel 30 can output the filling jet for the wall-mounted filling container 12 through its lower inlet.

[0082] To convert the received liquid into a filling jet for wall-mounted filling, the liquid filling channel 30 may, for example, have a vortex-generating section. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the vortex-generating section may, for example, be helical or spiral-shaped. Alternatively or additionally, the liquid filling channel 30 may, for example, have guiding elements and / or a flow body that widens along the flow direction or toward the container 12, for example, in the form of a shield (in Figure 1 and Figure 2 (Not shown in the image). The guiding element and / or flow body can be used for liquids adhering to the interior of container 12, i.e., for liquid deflection in wall-mounted filling containers. The flow body may preferably coaxially surround a section of the at least one gas passage 32.

[0083] A section, preferably an outlet section, of the liquid filling channel 30 is preferably arranged coaxially with a section, preferably an end section, of the at least one gas channel 32. Particularly preferably, a section of the liquid filling channel 30 coaxially surrounds the section of the at least one gas channel 32. The section of the liquid filling channel 30 may preferably be an outlet section adjacent to the outlet of the liquid filling channel 30. The section of the at least one gas channel 32 may preferably be an end section adjacent to an opening of the at least one gas channel 32, which can be pressed against or at least towards the container 12 when the switching unit 16 is positioned below the filling valve 14 for filling the container 12.

[0084] The at least one gas channel 32 may have a pressurized gas channel for receiving pressurized gas, which is connected to the pressurized gas source 44 (exemplarily only for clarity) Figure 1 (As shown in the diagram) connected or connectable. The received pressurized gas can be output from the at least one gas channel 32 or the lower opening of the pressurized gas channel into the container 12 for pre-pressurizing the container 12. Alternatively, the container 12 may be flushed with pressurized gas or a production gas (e.g., CO2) before filling via the pressurized gas channel or the at least one gas channel 32.

[0085] Alternatively or additionally, the at least one gas passage 32 may have a return gas passage, which is connected to the return gas outlet 46 (exemplarily only for better viewing). Figure 1 (As shown in the diagram) They are connected or can be connected. Return gas can flow directly from container 12 into the at least one gas channel 32 or return gas channel during filling (e.g., filling via liquid filling channel 30) through the lower opening of the at least one gas channel 32 or return gas channel. The at least one gas channel 32 or return gas channel can guide the incoming return gas to the return gas outlet 46.

[0086] Alternatively or additionally, the at least one gas channel 32 may have a vacuum channel connected to the vacuum source 48 (exemplarily only for better viewing). Figure 1 (As shown in the diagram) connected or connectable. Vacuum source 48 can be implemented, for example, as a vacuum pump. Gas can flow directly from container 12 into or be drawn into the at least one gas channel 32 or vacuum channel before filling and, if necessary, pre-pressurizing container 12 (e.g., filling via liquid filling channel 30) via the lower opening of the at least one gas channel 32 or vacuum channel. The at least one gas channel 32 or vacuum channel can guide gas to vacuum source 48.

[0087] It is possible that the pressurized gas channel, the return gas channel, and the vacuum channel can be constructed independently of each other. It is also possible that only one of the channels is constructed independently, while the other two channels form a common channel. Similarly, it is possible that only gas channel 32 is included, which functions as the pressurized gas channel, the return gas channel, and / or the vacuum channel.

[0088] Possibly, the device 10A has at least one gas conduit 34 for discharging gas to evacuate the container 12, for delivering pressurized gas, and / or for discharging return gas. The at least one gas conduit 34 may be connected to the at least one gas passage 32. The at least one gas conduit 34 may be supported by a support structure 18. Particularly preferably, the at least one gas conduit 34 may extend through an adjustment member of the actuator 22.

[0089] The at least one gas passage 32 can be controlled by one or more control valves (not shown in the figures), which can, for example, block or open the at least one gas passage 32 and / or connect the at least one gas passage 32 to a pressurized gas source 44, a return gas outlet 46, and / or a vacuum source 48. The at least one control valve can be controlled by a machine control device of the filling apparatus (which has device 10A), for example, pneumatically or electromagnetically.

[0090] The conversion unit 16 can be supported by the support structure 18. The support structure 18 can also support the actuator 22.

[0091] The switching unit 16 may be positioned below the filling valve 14. The switching unit 16 may be movable below the filling valve 14 and may be movable away from the position below the filling valve 14. Such movement may include, for example, rotation, pivoting, and / or movement of the switching unit 16. Accordingly, the switching unit 16 may be movably, pivotally, and / or rotatably supported. Preferably, such movement may include vertical and / or horizontal movement. The mobility of the switching unit 16 may be independent of the necessary mobility of the filling valve 14.

[0092] Preferably, the switching unit 16 can be moved by means of the actuator 22 to a position below the filling valve 14 and to a position away from the filling valve 14, for example, to a stop position. However, it is also possible, if desired, for example, a robotic arm (not shown) can position the switching unit 16 below the filling valve 14 or move it.

[0093] The conversion unit 16 can be pressed against the filling valve 14 from below. This pressing can be achieved, for example, by means of the vertical movement of the filling valve 14 and / or the vertical movement of the conversion unit 16.

[0094] The conversion unit 16 can be pressed onto the container 12 from above. The pressing can be achieved, for example, by means of the vertical movement of the conversion unit 16 and / or the vertical movement of the container 12, for example by means of the container holder 20.

[0095] The switching unit 16 may have an upper sealing surface 36. The upper sealing surface 36 may be metallic or non-metallic, for example, made of plastic. Preferably, the upper sealing surface 36 surrounds the outlet of the liquid filling channel 30. The upper sealing surface 36 is preferably annular. The upper sealing surface 36 is preferably implemented as a surrounding flange section or a surrounding flange. When the filling valve 14 and the switching unit 16 are pressed against each other, the upper sealing surface 36 can seal between the filling valve 14 and the switching unit 16.

[0096] The conversion unit 16 may have a lower sealing surface 38. The lower sealing surface 38 may be metallic or non-metallic, for example, made of plastic. Preferably, the lower sealing surface 38 surrounds the outlet of the liquid filling channel 30 and the opening of the at least one gas channel 32. The lower sealing surface 38 is preferably annular. The lower sealing surface 38 is preferably implemented as a surrounding flange section or a surrounding flange. Preferably, the lower sealing surface 38 is conical. When the conversion unit 16 and the container 12 are pressed against each other, the lower sealing surface 38 can seal between the conversion unit 16 and the container 12.

[0097] Possibly, when the switching unit 16 is positioned below the filling valve 14, the front end of the valve element 24 of the filling valve 14 (e.g., the valve cone) protrudes into the switching unit 16 in the closed position of the filling valve 14. Preferably, the switching unit 16 may have a recess 40 for the front end of the valve element 24 (only for clearer viewing). Figure 1 (Referring to figures in the accompanying drawings). The shape of the recess 40 can be adapted to the shape of the front end of the valve member 24. For example, the recess 40 can be tapered for the valve cone of the valve member 24.

[0098] The container retainer 20 is configured to hold the container 12. For example, the container retainer 20 may hold the container 12 on the container neck. Accordingly, the container retainer 20 may be implemented, for example, as a container neck retainer. Instead of holding the container 12 on its neck, the container retainer 20 may hold the container 12, for example, on its container body or container trunk, or support the container 12 from below or the bottom side.

[0099] The container retainer 20 can hold the container 12, for example, by means of a clamp or gripper. The container retainer can be passive and, for example, resiliently pre-pressurized to a closed position to hold the container 12. Alternatively, the container retainer 20 can be active and, for example, capable of being opened and / or closed by means of an actuator. It is also possible that the actuator can open a container retainer 20 resiliently pre-pressurized to achieve closure, or can close a container retainer 20 resiliently pre-pressurized to achieve opening.

[0100] It is possible that the container holder 20 can move vertically, for example, by means of an actuator. With the aid of this vertical mobility, the container holder 20 can be pressed against the conversion unit 16 from below, or, if necessary, can be pressed against the filling valve 14 from below without the intermediate insertion of the conversion unit 16.

[0101] Figure 1 The apparatus 10A is shown in a first operating mode, preferably in a full-jet or free-jet operating mode. In the first operating mode, the container 12 can be filled by the filling valve 14 in the open position with a free-jet flow. The free-jet can flow directly from the filling valve 14 into the container 12. The switching unit 16 can be positioned in a stopped position. In the stopped position, the switching unit 16 can be positioned such that it is no longer positioned below the filling valve 14. However, it is also conceivable, for example, that the switching unit 16 has a flow passage separate from the liquid filling channel 30. In the first operating mode, this flow passage can be positioned below the filling valve 14. This flow passage can, for example, allow the free-jet from the filling valve 14 to flow into the container 12 without significant impact.

[0102] In the first operating mode, the filling valve 14 is preferably positioned at a distance from the container 12. In the first operating mode, non-carbonated or non-carbonated liquids can preferably be filled from the filling valve 14 into the container 12 (e.g., directly or via the through passage of the conversion unit 16).

[0103] Figure 2 The apparatus 10A is shown in a second operating mode, preferably a non-free jet operating mode or a pressure filling operating mode, and is particularly preferred for a wall-mounted filling container 12. In the second operating mode, the switching unit 16 and the liquid filling channel 30 can be positioned below the filling valve 14. The switching unit 16 can receive liquid from the filling valve 14 at the inlet of the liquid filling channel 30. In the liquid filling channel 30, the liquid can preferably be converted or diverted into a filling jet for wall filling. The filling jet for wall filling can exit the switching unit 16 from the outlet of the liquid filling channel 30 and flow into the container 12.

[0104] In the second operating mode, the switching unit 16 can be pressed against the filling valve 14 or its outlet from below. This pressing can be achieved when changing from the first operating mode to the second operating mode of the device 10A by first pivoting the switching unit 16 below the filling valve 14 by means of the actuator 22. Subsequently, the switching unit 16 can move vertically upward by means of the actuator 22 to press the switching unit 16 against the filling valve 14.

[0105] In the second operating mode, the container 12 can be pressed against the conversion unit 16 from below. This pressing can be achieved in the second operating mode of the device 10A by the following method: after the conversion unit 16 is pressed against the filling valve 14 from below, the container 12 moves vertically upward by means of the container holder 20 and is pressed against the outlet of the conversion unit 16 or the liquid filling channel 30.

[0106] In the second operating mode, during (e.g., wall-mounted) filling of container 12, return gas from container 12 can flow into the at least one gas passage 32 and can be directed to the return gas outlet 46. Alternatively or additionally, container 12 may be pre-pressurized with pressurized gas in the second operating mode prior to (e.g., wall-mounted) filling of container 12. The pressurized gas can flow into container 12 from pressurized gas source 44 through the at least one gas passage 32.

[0107] Possibly, if needed, the at least one gas passage 32 can be used, for example, to evacuate the container 12. For this purpose, the at least one gas passage 32 can be connected to or is connectable to a vacuum source 48.

[0108] In one embodiment, the at least one gas passage 32 may, for example, have a vacuum passage and a pressurized gas passage (e.g., for CO2 as a pressurized gas / purge gas) separately from each other. In this embodiment, the compressed container 12 may first be evacuated through the vacuum passage to reduce the air (and therefore the oxygen contained therein) in the container 12. Subsequently, CO2 may be introduced into the evacuated container 12 through the pressurized gas passage, and the container is thus flushed or pre-pressurized.

[0109] It is also possible that the control valve provided to the vacuum source 48 and, for example, the pressurized gas valve / flushing gas valve provided to the pressurized gas source 44, open simultaneously or with only a slight delay, so that the vacuum source 48 can assist the flow of production gas (e.g., CO2) through the container 12.

[0110] In the second operating mode, the filling valve 14, the switching unit 16, and the container 12 preferably press against each other. In the second operating mode, it is preferable that a carbonated or carbonated liquid can be filled from the filling valve 14 into the container 12 through the liquid filling channel 30 of the switching unit 16.

[0111] In order to switch from the second operating mode ( Figure 2 Switch to the first operating mode. Figure 1 The switching unit 16 can move vertically downward by means of the actuator 22. The switching unit 16 is disengaged from the filling valve 14. Now, the switching unit 16, or at least the inlet of the liquid filling channel 30, can move away from the filling valve 14 or its outlet by means of the actuator 22.

[0112] Figure 3 and Figure 4 A device 10B similar to device 10A is shown. In device 10B, the filling valve 14 can move vertically, for example, by means of an actuator (not shown). This vertical mobility can be achieved in a first operating mode (see...). Figure 3 For example, it can be used to reduce the distance between the filling valve 14 and the container 12, without the filling valve 14 contacting the container 12. This vertical mobility can be achieved in a second operating mode (see...). Figure 4 For example, it is used to press the filling valve 14 together with the conversion unit 16 onto the container 12 from above. Therefore, it is not necessary, but still possible, for the container holder 20 to allow the container 12 to move vertically.

[0113] Figure 5 and Figure 6 Device 10C, similar to devices 10A and 10B, is shown. In device 10C, the switching unit 16 can be located below the filling valve 14 for a second operating mode (see [link]). Figure 6 ) moves by means of actuator 22 and for the first operating mode (see Figure 5 The actuator 22 moves the valve away from its position below the filling valve 14. The filling valve 14 can then move vertically for use in the second operating mode (see...). Figure 6 Press the filling valve 14 onto the conversion unit 16 from above. Similarly, the container holder 20 can move vertically to allow for a second operating mode (see...). Figure 6 The container 12 is pressed from below onto the conversion unit 16.

[0114] Figure 7 Device 10D, similar to device 10A, is shown. One difference between device 10A and 10D is that the liquid filling channel 30 of the conversion unit 16 in device 10D has a flow body 42 instead of a spiral channel section. The flow body 42 can redirect the liquid received by the filling valve 14 to generate a filling jet for the wall-mounted filling container 12. Preferably, the flow body 42 widens in the flow direction or toward the container 12. The flow body 42 is preferably implemented as a flow guide baffle, as shown. The flow body 42 may preferably be arranged at the center of the liquid filling channel 30. The end section of the at least one gas channel 32 may extend through the flow body 42.

[0115] This invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Rather, various variations and modifications that employ the same inventive concept and thus fall within the scope of protection are possible. Each feature of the invention is disclosed independently of the others. Additionally, features of improved embodiments are also disclosed independently, such as features relating to the presence and / or configuration of the filling valve and / or conversion unit.

Claims

1. Device (10A to 10D) for filling containers (12), characterized in that, The device has a filling valve (14) for outputting liquid to the container (12); and a conversion unit (16) which is positionable below the filling valve (14) and has a liquid filling channel (30) for receiving liquid from the filling valve (14) and outputting liquid to the container (12) and at least one gas channel (32) for evacuating the container (12) and / or for pre-pressurizing the container (12) and / or for conducting back gas from the container (12), the at least one gas channel is configured separately from the liquid filling channel, a section of the liquid filling channel (30) and a section of the at least one gas channel (32) extend side by side or coaxially, wherein the section of the liquid filling channel (30) coaxially surrounds the section of the at least one gas channel (32), and the conversion unit enables switching between free-jet and wall filling.

2. The apparatus (10A to 10D) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The device is used for a filler carousel.

3. The device (10A to 10D) according to claim 1, wherein a section of the liquid filling channel (30) and a section of the at least one gas channel (32) extend side by side or coaxially.

4. The device (10A to 10D) according to claim 1, wherein a section of the liquid filling channel (30) and a section of the at least one gas channel (32) extend side by side or coaxially, wherein the section of the liquid filling channel (30) helically surrounds the section of the at least one gas channel (32).

5. The device (10A to 10D) according to claim 1, further having a pressurized gas source (44) which is connected or connectable to the at least one gas channel (32) for delivering pressurized gas; and / or a back gas discharge (46) which is connected or connectable to the at least one gas channel (32) for discharging back gas; and / or a vacuum source which is connected or connectable to the at least one gas channel (32) for evacuating the container (12).

6. The device (10A to 10D) according to claim 1, wherein the liquid filling channel (30) is configured for converting liquid received by the filling valve (14) into a filling jet for wall filling and outputting the filling jet for wall filling to the container (12).

7. The device (10A to 10D) according to claim 1, wherein the liquid filling channel (30) has a vortex-generating section, a guide element and / or a flow body (42) widening in the flow direction.

8. The device (10A to 10D) according to claim 1, wherein the liquid filling channel (30) has a vortex-generating section, a guide element and / or a flow guide baffle widening in the flow direction, wherein the vortex-generating section, the guide element and / or the flow guide baffle widening in the flow direction coaxially surround the section of the at least one gas channel (32).

9. The device (10A to 10D) according to claim 1, wherein the conversion unit (16) is vertically movable.

10. The device (10A to 10D) according to claim 1, wherein the conversion unit (16) is vertically movable by means of an actuator (22) and / or independently of the filling valve (14).

11. The device (10A to 10D) according to claim 1, wherein the conversion unit (16) is compressible to the filling valve (14); and / or the conversion unit (16) is compressible to the container (12).

12. The device (10A to 10D) according to claim 1, wherein the conversion unit (16) is compressible to the filling valve (14) by means of the filling valve (14) and / or a vertical movement of the conversion unit (16); and / or the conversion unit (16) is compressible to the container (12) by means of a vertical movement of the conversion unit (16) and / or a container holder (20) of the container (12).

13. The device (10A to 10D) according to claim 1, wherein the filling valve (14) has a movable valve member (24) which projects into the conversion unit (16) in a closed position of the filling valve (14) when the conversion unit (16) is positioned below the filling valve (14).

14. The device (10A to 10D) according to claim 1, wherein the filling valve (14) has a movable valve member (24) with a valve cone which projects into the conversion unit (16) in a closed position of the filling valve (14) when the conversion unit (16) is positioned below the filling valve (14), wherein the conversion unit (16) has a recess (40) for a front end of the movable valve member (24), which recess is adapted to the shape of the front end.

15. The device (10A to 10D) according to claim 1, wherein the conversion unit (16) is translatable and / or rotatable for positioning below the filling valve (14).

16. The device (10A to 10D) according to claim 1, wherein the conversion unit (16) is translatable and / or rotatable for positioning below the filling valve (14) and is guided and / or guided by means of an actuator (22).

17. The device (10A to 10D) according to claim 1, wherein the filling valve (14) is vertically movable; and / or the device (10A to 10D) has a container holder (20) for holding the container (12), which container holder is vertically movable.

18. The device (10A to 10D) according to claim 1, wherein the filling valve (14) is vertically movable for compressing onto the conversion unit (16); and / or the conversion unit (16) is vertically movable for compressing onto the filling valve (14). The device (10A to 10D) has a container holder (20) for holding the container (12), which is vertically movable for pressing onto the conversion unit (16).

19. The device (10A to 10D) according to claim 1, wherein The device (10A to 10D) can be operated in a first operating mode in which the filling valve (14) outputs liquid in a free jet for filling the container (12); and / or The device (10A to 10D) can be operated in a second operating mode in which: - the conversion unit (16) is positioned below the filling valve (14), - the liquid filling channel (30) receives liquid from the filling valve (14) and outputs liquid to the container (12) for filling the container (12), and - the at least one gas channel (32) sucks gas out of the container (12) for evacuating the container (12), and / or the at least one gas channel (32) delivers pressurized gas to the container (12) for pre-pressurizing the container (12) before filling the container (12), and / or the at least one gas channel (32) receives back gas from the container (12) during filling and conducts it away.

20. The device (10A to 10D) according to claim 1, wherein The device (10A to 10D) can be operated in a free jet operating mode in which the filling valve (14) outputs liquid in a free jet for directly filling the container (12); and / or The device (10A to 10D) can be operated in a wall filling operating mode in which: - the conversion unit (16) is positioned below the filling valve (14), - the liquid filling channel (30) receives liquid from the filling valve (14) and outputs liquid to the container (12) for wall filling the container (12), and - the at least one gas channel (32) sucks gas out of the container (12) for evacuating the container (12), and / or the at least one gas channel (32) delivers pressurized gas to the container (12) for pre-pressurizing the container (12) before filling the container (12), and / or the at least one gas channel (32) receives back gas from the container (12) during filling and conducts it away.

21. Method for operating a device (10A to 10D) for filling containers (12) according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein The method comprises: operating the device (10A to 10D) in a first operating mode in which a free jet from the filling valve (14) flows into the container (12) below the filling valve (14); and operating the device (10A to 10D) in a second operating mode in which: - the conversion unit (16) is positioned below the filling valve (14), - the liquid filling channel (30) receives liquid from the filling valve (14) and outputs liquid to the container (12) for filling the container (12), and - the at least one gas channel (32) sucks gas out of the container (12) for evacuating the container (12), and / or the at least one gas channel (32) delivers pressurized gas to the container (12) for pre-pressurizing the container (12) before filling the container (12), and / or the at least one gas channel (32) receives back gas from the container (12) during filling and conducts it away. - a liquid filling channel (30) of the conversion unit (16) receives liquid from the filling valve (14) and outputs liquid to the container (12), and - the conversion unit (16) has at least one gas channel (32) through which gas is evacuated from the container (12) before filling the container (12), and / or through which pressurized gas is introduced into the container (12) before filling the container (12) for pre-pressurizing the container (12), and / or through which back gas is conducted out of the container (12) during filling the container (12).

22. The method of claim 21, wherein, The method comprises: - operating the device (10A to 10D) in a first operating mode in which a free jet from a filling valve (14) flows directly into a container (12) below the filling valve (14); and - operating the device (10A to 10D) in a second operating mode in which: - a conversion unit (16) is positioned below the filling valve (14), - a liquid filling channel (30) of the conversion unit (16) receives liquid from the filling valve (14) and outputs liquid to the container (12) such that a wall filling of the container (12) is achieved, and - the conversion unit (16) has at least one gas channel (32) through which gas is evacuated from the container (12) before filling the container (12), and / or through which pressurized gas is introduced into the container (12) before filling the container (12) for pre-pressurizing the container (12), and / or through which back gas is conducted out of the container (12) during filling the container (12).

23. The method according to claim 21, wherein - the container (12) is positioned spaced apart from the filling valve (14) in a first operating mode; and / or - the container (12) and conversion unit (16) and filling valve (14) are pressed against each other in a second operating mode.

24. The method according to claim 21, wherein - a carbon-free liquid is filled into the container (12) in a first operating mode, and / or - a carbonated liquid is filled into the container (12) in a second operating mode.

25. The method according to claim 21, further comprising: - moving the conversion unit (16) or a liquid filling channel (30) of the conversion unit (16) below the filling valve (14) to change from a first operating mode to a second operating mode; and / or - moving the conversion unit (16) or a liquid filling channel (30) of the conversion unit (16) away from the filling valve (14) to change from a second operating mode to a first operating mode.

26. The method according to claim 21, further comprising: - from the first operating mode to the second operating mode by translating and / or rotating the conversion unit (16) or the liquid filling channel (30) of the conversion unit (16) below the filling valve (14) by means of the actuator (22); and / or - from the second operating mode to the first operating mode by translating and / or rotating the conversion unit (16) or the liquid filling channel (30) of the conversion unit (16) away from the filling valve (14) by means of the actuator (22).

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