Equipment for sealing containers using container closure components.

Abstract

The present invention relates to an apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure, preferably for sealing a beverage container with a roll closure, a spiral closure, a compression closure, a cap, and / or a press-fit closure, the apparatus comprising a lifting unit (3) movable along a longitudinal direction (2), the lifting unit having a guide unit (4) for presetting the position of the lifting unit (3) along the longitudinal direction (2), and a closure receiving portion (7) connected to the lifting unit (3) via a pre-tightening device (8) for holding the container closure and for applying the container closure to the container opening of the container to be sealed by means of a top pressure preset by the pre-tightening device (8), and an adjusting device (10) for automatically adjusting the top pressure preset by the pre-tightening device (8); the invention also relates to a closure device (100) comprising the aforementioned apparatus.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for sealing a container with a container closure element, such as for sealing a beverage container with a roll closure element, a screw closure element, a compression closure element, a bottle cap and / or a press-fit closure element; and a closure device including such an apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] When filling beverages in a beverage bottling facility, a filler product, such as a beverage filler, is typically used to fill the container. After filling, the filled container is then sealed with a container closure.

[0003] Different types of container closures are known depending on the type of container to be filled. For example, it is known to seal beverage bottles using a roll-form closure. Here, a closure preform, primarily made of aluminum, is fitted onto the container spout, which has external threads, in the form of a hollow cylinder closed on one side, under a predetermined top pressure. During the sealing process, after the preform is fitted onto the container spout and pressed against it by the top pressure, the hollow cylindrical side of the closure acquires its final shape with threaded and rolled fastening rings.

[0004] Alternatively, a screw closure can be used to seal the beverage container. For this purpose, a pre-formed screw closure is screwed onto a thread provided at the container spout by simultaneously rotating the closure and applying a predetermined top pressure, wherein the screw closure is, for example, a plastic molded part.

[0005] It is also known to seal beverage containers with a compression closure. Here, the container closure is pressed against the container spout by a predetermined top pressure. For example, a plastic compression closure or a bottle cap can be used to seal the beverage bottle.

[0006] Alternatively, the beverage container can be sealed by means of a press-fit closure, such as a cork or stopper. Here, the diameter of the cork or stopper is compressed and it is pressed into the bottle neck through a closure punch located in the closure housing, a so-called cork lock, by applying a certain preset top pressure.

[0007] For the aforementioned different types of container closures, closure housings with different configurations are required, also known as closure heads or closure nut heads, which take into account the requirements of the corresponding type of container closure to be closed and the requirements of the working method for installing the corresponding container closure onto the filled container.

[0008] Therefore, it is known that beverage bottling facilities are equipped with closures for sealing containers with container closures. These closures can be fitted with different closure receptacles, allowing for the alternative handling of different types of container closures. To provide economical operation, particularly related to the flow rate (i.e., the quantity) of containers to be sealed per unit time with the container closure, the closure typically has multiple devices, each equipped with a closure receptacle, for sealing containers with the container closure, and is configured in a linear or circular rotating configuration. In such a closure, for example, switching can be made between handling screw closures and bottle caps by removing the closure receptacle for handling screw closures from the device and replacing it with a closure receptacle for handling bottle caps. Alternatively, the closure receptacle can also be configured to accommodate and handle different types of container closures, such as screw closures and roll closures.

[0009] In order to provide the top pressure required for applying the closure, the equipment also has a pre-tightening device by means of which the closure receiving portion is pre-tightened relative to the lifting unit of the equipment toward the container to be closed.

[0010] The top pressure required to close a container with a container closure is different for each type of closure. For example, when applying a plastic spiral closure, the closure device may be configured to provide, for example, a top pressure of 150 N for the closing process. In a system for applying a (aluminum) roll closure, the top pressure to be provided during the closing process becomes, for example, 2000 N. In the system, the top pressure is designed to be the minimum required force and can now be manually adjusted to further increase the top pressure (e.g., by an additional 500 N).

[0011] To achieve this change in top pressure, conventional preload devices have a manual top pressure adjustment mechanism. For example, when modifying the machining of a container closure from one type to another, the pressure spring in the preload device can be replaced with a pressure spring of different stiffness, thus changing the top pressure provided by the preload pressure spring. Alternatively, the spring travel of the pressure spring during modification can be manually adjusted so that the pressure spring has different initial compressions for different types of container closures, for example, via a threaded system in the preload device.

[0012] Such manual modifications are costly because the preload device, especially its pressure spring, is difficult to access. Furthermore, when the process is performed manually too frequently or incorrectly, there is a risk of damage to the threads during adjustment. In addition, manual adjustments in high-flow-rate facilities are very time-consuming, resulting in relatively long downtimes during modifications, particularly in facilities that are large in scale and have numerous devices for sealing containers with container closures.

[0013] For these reasons, it is usually abandoned to adjust the top pressure during modification and instead work with a fixed intermediate "standard top pressure", even though different containers and container closures require different top pressures, which often has an adverse effect on the closure process. Summary of the Invention

[0014] Based on known prior art, the object of the present invention is to provide an improved apparatus for sealing containers with container closures, the apparatus preferably for sealing beverage containers with roller closures, screw closures, compression closures, bottle caps and / or press-fit closures, and to provide an improved closure device for sealing containers with container closures, the closure device preferably for sealing beverage containers with roller closures, screw closures, compression closures, bottle caps and / or press-fit closures.

[0015] The objective is achieved by an apparatus having the features of the invention for sealing containers with container closures, preferably for sealing beverage containers with roll closures, screw closures, compression closures, caps, and / or press-fit closures. Advantageous improvements are apparent from the description and drawings.

[0016] Accordingly, an apparatus for sealing containers with container closures is proposed, preferably for sealing beverage containers with roll closures, spiral closures, compression closures, caps, and / or press-fit closures. The apparatus includes a lifting unit movable along a longitudinal direction, the lifting unit having a guide unit for presetting the position of the lifting unit along the longitudinal direction and a closure receiving portion connected to the lifting unit via a pre-tightening device. The closure receiving portion is used to hold the container closure and to apply the container closure to the container opening of the container to be sealed by means of a top pressure preset by the pre-tightening device.

[0017] The device also includes an adjustment device for automatically adjusting the top pressure preset by the pre-tightening device.

[0018] Here, "automatic adjustment" is understood as the adjustment device being configured to operate normally without direct human intervention, thereby adjusting or regulating the top pressure without manual intervention. Therefore, the adjustment or regulation of the top pressure on the device is performed without human intervention.

[0019] Because the equipment includes an adjustment device for automatically adjusting the top pressure preset by the pre-tightening device, it is feasible to adjust the top pressure to be ideally applied to the container closure to be processed without manual assistance. Eliminating manual adjustment saves the time otherwise required for this purpose, especially since no one has direct access to the area of ​​the equipment, thus the protective equipment surrounding the equipment must prevent external access; such protective equipment may take the form of a filling chamber, a purification chamber, and / or barriers.

[0020] Since no direct human intervention is required, the costs associated with sanitation in the facility can be reduced, as there is no need to worry about contamination of the facility due to the automatic adjustment of the top pressure.

[0021] Furthermore, the top pressure can be adjusted to a specified value with exceptional precision. In addition, it also helps to avoid erroneous adjustments due to human negligence, as can occur during manual adjustment.

[0022] This also enables the monitoring, inspection, and / or recalibration of the top pressure during facility operation. According to another preferred embodiment, the device includes a support for connection to a closure transport device, such as a closure turntable, wherein the lifting unit is movably mounted on the support in the longitudinal direction.

[0023] To enable easy adjustment of the top pressure provided by the pretensioning device, the pretensioning device may include an adjustment element movable relative to the lifting unit in the longitudinal direction and / or a pressure spring element disposed between the adjustment element and the closure housing, the pressure spring element being used to provide a preset top pressure to the closure housing.

[0024] Preferably, the position of the adjusting element along the longitudinal direction can be adjusted by an adjusting device.

[0025] To preset the position of the lifting unit along the longitudinal direction, which typically corresponds to a height position with respect to gravitational acceleration, the lifting unit may include a guide unit for preset the position of the lifting unit along the longitudinal direction. The guide unit of the lifting unit preferably has a guide element, for example in the form of a guide roller, which can follow or pass through a guide device with a device enclosure, such as a lifting bend guide.

[0026] Advantageously, the pre-tightening device is located on the guide unit. Preferably, the adjusting element is movably held on the guide unit.

[0027] When the adjusting element is configured as an adjusting rod and / or when the adjusting element has a threaded section, a particularly simple and stable construction of the preload device can be achieved, in which the adjusting element engages with the threaded portion of the preload device via the threaded section.

[0028] Alternatively or additionally, the adjusting element can be held anti-torsionally on the lifting unit, preferably the guide unit of the lifting element, in the longitudinal direction. Here, "anti-torsional" is understood to mean preventing the adjusting element from rotating about the longitudinal direction, which is the axis of rotation.

[0029] Such anti-torsion can be provided, for example, by having the adjusting element, when viewed perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction in at least a predetermined area, have a non-circular cross-sectional profile, such as a polygonal profile. Alternatively or additionally, additional fastening elements, such as pins housed in a receiving portion, can be provided to provide anti-torsion.

[0030] When it is proposed that the preload force of the preload device and / or the preload pressure preset by the preload device can be adjusted with particular precision, the device may include a measuring unit for determining the preload force of the preload device and / or the preload pressure preset by the preload device. Preferably, the measuring unit is configured and designed to at least temporarily determine the preload pressure on the lifting unit or the closure housing. Preferably, the measuring unit or the open-loop control-closed-loop control device connected to the measuring unit may be designed to determine a preload characteristic curve from data provided via the measuring unit, preferably an elastic characteristic curve for adjusting different adjustments of the device in a preset area. Preferably, the determined current preload pressure and / or the determined characteristic curve may be displayed on a display on the device and / or stored in a memory. In particular, this allows for the discussion of manufacturing tolerances for one or more components of the preload device. For example, when the preload device includes a pressure spring, there may be a deviation of, for example, 10% in spring stiffness within a batch of pressure springs acquired.

[0031] According to another preferred embodiment, the pre-tightening device has an adjusting wheel for adjusting the top pressure, which is preferably used to adjust the position of the adjusting element relative to the lifting unit in the longitudinal direction.

[0032] Preferably, the adjusting wheel and the adjusting element are coupled such that by rotating the adjusting wheel about its axis of rotation, the adjusting element can move longitudinally relative to the lifting unit.

[0033] When the adjusting wheel is configured as a friction wheel, a particularly simple structure can be achieved.

[0034] According to another preferred embodiment, the pretensioning device includes a transmission device, preferably a bevel gear transmission device or preferably an overlapping belt transmission device, wherein the transmission device is preferably disposed between the adjusting wheel and the adjusting element, wherein the transmission device preferably provides coupling between the adjusting wheel and the adjusting element, wherein the threaded portion that engages with the threaded portion of the adjusting element is preferably disposed on the transmission wheel of the transmission device, preferably a bevel gear.

[0035] Alternatively, the transmission device can also be configured as a worm gear drive. Preferably, in this worm gear drive, the worm is disposed on the side of the adjusting wheel or rotatably coupled to the adjusting wheel, which engages with the worm wheel disposed on the side of the adjusting element. The worm wheel is preferably a drive wheel, which engages with the threaded section of the adjusting element via a threaded portion, preferably an internal thread. When using a worm gear drive, a particularly advantageous transmission ratio between the worm wheel and the worm can be provided, preferably in the range of i = 4:1 to 12:1, preferably i = 6:1 to 10:1, and particularly preferably i = 9:1. Furthermore, the torque to be transmitted on the adjusting wheel is relatively small, and the position of the adjusting element can be adjusted particularly accurately. For example, compared with bevel gear drives, worm gear drives are simpler in construction and / or less expensive.

[0036] To prevent undesirable changes in the top pressure provided by the pretensioning device during operation, the pretensioning device may include a locking unit for locking the pretensioning device, preferably for locking the adjusting wheel to prevent rotation and / or for locking the adjusting element to prevent movement.

[0037] Preferably, the locking unit includes a locking element movable relative to the adjusting wheel and a preload element for preloading the locking element relative to the adjusting wheel.

[0038] Alternatively or additionally, the locking element may be configured as a fastening fork.

[0039] When the device in another preferred embodiment correspondingly includes a position detection unit for detecting the position of the adjusting element relative to the lifting unit, preferably relative to the guiding unit, the top pressure provided by the pretensioning device can be inferred from the detected position of the adjusting element. Therefore, monitoring of the top pressure during operation is possible. It is also possible to detect whether or when the regulated top pressure is adjusted, thereby achieving relatively high operational safety.

[0040] Preferably, the position detection unit includes a sensor configured to detect the position of the observation adjustment element relative to the lifting unit, preferably relative to the guide unit, in the longitudinal direction. The sensor preferably detects the distance between the plate disposed on the adjustment element and the sensor in the longitudinal direction. Preferably, the sensor is disposed at a fixed horizontal position in the longitudinal direction. Alternatively, the sensor may be disposed on the adjustment element and move accordingly with the adjustment element in the longitudinal direction. Subsequently, the sensor is preferably configured to detect the distance in the longitudinal direction to a point having a fixed, unchanging height horizontal position in the longitudinal direction.

[0041] According to another preferred embodiment, the adjusting device and the pre-tightening device can be coupled together.

[0042] The term "coupleable" here includes both the ability to couple and the ability to decouple. In other words, a couplerable unit can be connected to a device for the purpose of interaction with each other. In a coupled state, the unit can be, for example, mounted or fixed to the device, making force transmission, for example, along the longitudinal direction, possible. Decoupling corresponds to releasing or removing the unit from the device.

[0043] According to another preferred embodiment, the adjusting device includes a drive wheel that can be coupled to the adjusting wheel of the preload device, wherein the drive wheel is preferably configured as a friction wheel, and wherein the drive wheel is preferably configured to move toward the adjusting wheel in order to be coupled to the adjusting wheel and to move away from the adjusting wheel in order to be decoupled.

[0044] According to another preferred embodiment, the regulating device includes a drive device for automatically driving the regulating device, preferably a drive wheel of the regulating device, wherein the drive device preferably includes a motor, preferably an electric motor, and particularly preferably a stepper motor and / or a DC motor.

[0045] To provide coupling and decoupling between the adjusting device and the preload device, the adjusting device may include an actuator unit for moving the drive wheel toward and away from the adjusting wheel. For coupling, the drive wheel may move toward the adjusting wheel until the drive wheel and the adjusting wheel contact, such that the drive wheel can drive the adjusting wheel.

[0046] Alternatively or additionally, the adjusting device may include a releasing element for releasing the locking unit of the preload device. Preferably, the releasing element is configured to move synchronously with the drive wheel. Preferably, the releasing element is configured to hold the locking unit in a released state when the drive wheel is positioned in a position coupled to the adjusting wheel, and is configured not to act on the locking unit when the drive wheel is positioned in a position decoupled from the adjusting wheel. Preferably, the releasing element is preloaded relative to the drive wheel in a direction toward the locking unit, preferably by a spring preload. Therefore, it can be ensured that the drive wheel can drive the adjusting wheel to adjust the top pressure.

[0047] According to another preferred embodiment, the device includes an open-loop control device / closed-loop control device for open-loop control / closed-loop control of the top pressure preset by the pretensioning device. Preferably, the open-loop control device / closed-loop control device is configured to open-loop control / closed-loop control the position of the adjusting element relative to the lifting unit, preferably relative to the guide unit, and / or the position of the adjusting device relative to the pretensioning device, preferably the position of the drive wheel relative to the adjusting wheel, and / or the rotational movement of the drive wheel. Alternatively or additionally, the open-loop control device / closed-loop control device may be configured to open-loop control / closed-loop control the position of the drive device and / or the actuator unit and / or the release unit.

[0048] Preferably, the closure receiver is releasably held on the lifting unit. Therefore, the closure receiver can be easily replaced by another closure receiver, for example, when the closure receiver is damaged, or when a different type of container closure should be processed.

[0049] Here, the expression "releasable" is similar to the expression "coupleable," meaning the unit and equipment can be loosened, i.e., disassembled and repositioned or installed. The lifting unit and the enclosure housing are accordingly configured such that loosening and repositioning are feasible without causing damage to the lifting unit and / or the enclosure housing. Therefore, loosening and repositioning are reversible without physical intervention such as separation or welding.

[0050] The above-mentioned objective is also achieved by a closure having the features of the present invention for separating containers with container closures, said closure preferably being used to close beverage containers with roll closures, screw closures, compression closures, caps and / or press-fit closures. Advantageous improvements are apparent from this specification and the accompanying drawings.

[0051] Accordingly, a closure device is proposed for sealing containers with container closure elements, preferably for sealing beverage containers with roll closures, screw closures, compression closures, bottle caps and / or press-fit closures, said closure device including a rotatable closure turntable having a container receiving portion for receiving the container to be sealed.

[0052] The closure also includes the device according to any of the foregoing embodiments, which is disposed on the closure turntable in association with the container receiving portion.

[0053] Since the closure includes the device for sealing a container with a container closure element according to any of the foregoing embodiments, the aforementioned advantages and functions of the device can also be achieved by the closure.

[0054] Preferably, the closure may include multiple devices. Each device may have its own adjustment device or be associated with said adjustment device, or the adjustment device may be designed for multiple devices. For example, the closure may include 52 devices along with 52 closure receptacles, wherein the closure includes a total of four adjustment devices. Thus, one adjustment unit is associated with 13 devices, or 13 devices “share” one adjustment unit. Therefore, a simpler construction of the closure can be achieved when retrofit time is acceptable. Attached Figure Description

[0055] Other preferred embodiments of the invention are illustrated in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. As shown herein:

[0056] Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view is shown through a closure used to close a container with a container closure component;

[0057] Figure 2 Schematic illustration of the use of Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a device that closes a container, specifically a closure component.

[0058] Figure 3 schematically shown Figure 1 A three-dimensional sectional view of a portion of the closure in the diagram;

[0059] Figure 4 Schematic illustration based on Figures 1 to 3 A side view showing the details of the device;

[0060] Figure 5 schematically shown Figure 4 Another side view of the device details;

[0061] Figure 6 schematically shown Figure 4 Another side view of the device details;

[0062] Figure 7 schematically shown Figure 3 A three-dimensional side view of a portion of the area;

[0063] Figures 8 to 10 The side views schematically show details of an apparatus for sealing a container with a container closure according to another embodiment;

[0064] Figure 11 A perspective side view schematically showing details of an apparatus for sealing a container with a container closure according to another embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0065] Preferred embodiments are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Here, identical, similar, or equivalent elements are given the same reference numerals in different drawings, and repeated descriptions of these elements are partially omitted to avoid redundancy.

[0066] exist Figure 1 The diagram schematically shows a cross-sectional view through which a closure 100 for closing a container (not shown) with a container closure element (not shown) is constructed. The closure 100 is configured as a circular rotating element. Accordingly, the closure includes a base 120 rigidly connected to the bottom of the environment and a closure turntable 110 rotatable relative to the base 120 about a central axis of rotation 101 in a predetermined direction of rotation 102, wherein only one side of the closure 100 is shown here for clarity.

[0067] The closure 100 includes a plurality of container receptacles 111 for receiving containers to be closed, the container receptacles being arranged circumferentially on the closure turntable 110 about a rotation axis 101. A device 1 for closing a container with a container closure element is associated with each container receptacle 111 and is disposed above the container receptacle.

[0068] During normal operation of the closure 100, a container to be closed is received in each container receiving section 111 in each revolution of the closure turntable 110. The container is closed by means of a device 1 associated with each container receiving section 111, and the subsequently closed container is then withdrawn from the container receiving section 111 to make room for the next container to be closed, which is then received in the next revolution. In this way, the closure 100 can be used to close a continuous flow of containers.

[0069] Device 1 includes a lifting unit 3 movably held on a closure turntable 110 along a longitudinal direction 2 parallel to the axis of rotation 101. The lifting unit includes a guide unit 4 for pre-setting the position of the lifting unit 3 relative to the closure turntable 110 along the longitudinal direction 2. The guide unit 4 has a guide element 5 in the form of a pulley, which guides the lifting unit along a lifting bend 121 provided on a base 120.

[0070] In order to enable the mobility of the lifting unit 3 relative to the closure turntable 110, the device 1 includes a bracket 6, which is fixedly mounted on the closure turntable 110, and the lifting unit 3 is movably held on the bracket along the longitudinal direction 2.

[0071] The device 1 also includes a closure receiving portion 7 disposed on the lower side of the lifting unit 3, which is connected to the lifting unit 3 via a pre-tightening device 8 described in detail below. The closure receiving portion 7 is configured to hold a container closure and to apply the container closure to the container opening to be closed, which is held in the container receiving portion 111. The container closure can be applied to the container opening via the closure receiving portion 7 by means of a preset top pressure provided by the pre-tightening device 8.

[0072] An optional actuator 9 is provided on the bracket 6, and the closure housing 7 can be rotated about the longitudinal direction 2 via the actuator.

[0073] The device 1 further includes an adjustment device 10 disposed on the base 120 of the closure 100, which is used to automatically adjust or adjust the top pressure preset by the pre-tightening device 8. The adjustment device 10 includes a drive device 11 by means of which the drive wheel 12 of the adjustment device 10 can be rotated.

[0074] The drive wheel 12 is coupled to the adjusting wheel 13 of the pretensioning device 8, such that the rotation of the drive wheel 12 causes the adjusting wheel 13 to rotate, as will be explained in detail below.

[0075] The rotation of the adjusting wheel 13 causes a change in the top pressure provided by the pre-tightening device 8.

[0076] As in Figure 1 As shown in the diagram, at least the drive wheel 12 of the adjusting device 10 is movably configured in the longitudinal direction 2. If the drive wheel 12 moves away from the adjusting wheel 13, the drive wheel 12 and the adjusting wheel 13 are decoupled from each other.

[0077] Therefore, the lifting unit set on the closure turntable 110 moves past the adjustment device 10 along the rotation direction 102 by means of the pre-tightening device 8 without causing contact between the drive wheel 12 and the adjustment wheel 13, which would cause the adjustment wheel 13 to adjust its orientation, thereby causing the adjustment wheel 13 to rotate.

[0078] To adjust the top pressure, firstly, the adjusting wheel 13 is positioned below the drive wheel 12 along the longitudinal direction 2, and then the drive wheel 12 moves toward the adjusting wheel 13 until the drive wheel and the adjusting wheel are coupled. Subsequently, the adjusting wheel 13 can move by the movement of the drive wheel 12.

[0079] In order to provide movement of the drive wheel 2, the regulating device 10 includes an actuator unit 26.

[0080] Figure 2 schematically shown Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a portion of device 1. From Figure 2 A portion of the lifting unit 3 held on the support 6 is shown in the sectional view. Details of the guide unit 4, along with its guide element 5 and pre-tightening device 8, are also shown.

[0081] The guiding unit 4 is fixedly connected to or fixedly linked to the lifting unit 3.

[0082] The pretensioning device 8 includes an adjusting element 14 movable relative to the lifting unit 3 in the longitudinal direction 2 and guided in the guiding unit 4, and a transmission device 15 disposed between the adjusting wheel 13 and the adjusting element 14, and the transmission device provides coupling between the adjusting wheel 13 and the adjusting element 14 such that rotation of the adjusting wheel 13 about a rotation axis 16 of the adjusting wheel 13 oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 2 causes movement of the adjusting element 14 in the longitudinal direction 2.

[0083] Therefore, the transmission device 15 is configured as a bevel gear transmission device 15, which includes a first bevel gear 17 rotatably coupled to the adjusting wheel 13 and rotatable about the rotation axis 16, and a second bevel gear 18 rotatable about the longitudinal direction 2 and engaging with the first bevel gear 17. The second bevel gear 18 includes an internal threaded portion 19, which engages with the external threaded section 20 of the adjusting element 14.

[0084] Adjusting element 14 in Figure 2 An anti-torsion device 21 is provided on the upper end of the middle part to prevent the adjusting element 14 from twisting around the longitudinal direction 2.

[0085] Correspondingly, the rotation of the adjusting wheel 13 around the rotation axis 16 causes the adjusting element 14 to move along the longitudinal direction 2.

[0086] To prevent undesirable movement of the adjusting wheel 13 and the adjusting element 14, a locking unit 33 is provided, which locks the adjusting wheel 13 to prevent rotation as described in detail below.

[0087] The pretensioning device 8 also includes a pressure spring element 22, which is composed of two parallel-acting pressure springs 23. The pressure spring element 22 is disposed between the adjusting element 14 and the closure receiving portion 7. The closure receiving portion 7 (see...) Figure 1 This includes a connecting cylinder 24 extending in the lifting unit 3 along the longitudinal direction 2, the connecting cylinder forming contact with the end of the pressure spring element 22 on the closure receiving side.

[0088] If the adjusting element 14 moves toward the connecting cylinder 24, the pressure spring element 22 undergoes (additional) compression, thereby increasing the preload applied to the closure receiving portion 7 by the preload device 8, or more precisely, the preload force acting by the preload device 8 toward the closure receiving portion 7. If the adjusting element 14 moves away from the connecting cylinder 24, the preload force decreases accordingly. The preload force provided by the preload device 8 is proportional to the top pressure provided, as is common knowledge to those skilled in the art.

[0089] Figure 3 schematically shown Figure 1 A perspective sectional view of a portion of the closure 100, wherein the drive wheel 12 is rotatably coupled to the adjusting wheel 13, thereby the adjusting device 10 and the pretensioning device 8 are coupled relative to each other.

[0090] The drive wheel 12 is connected to the drive device 11 via a chain drive 27.

[0091] The device 1 also includes a position detection unit 34 for detecting the position of the adjustment element 14 relative to the lifting unit 3. The sensor 37 of the position detection unit 34 is disposed on a base 120, which defines the distance between itself and the sensor plate 35 disposed on the adjustment element 14 in the longitudinal direction 2.

[0092] exist Figure 3 The document also indicates an open-loop control device / closed-loop control device 36, which is designed for open-loop / closed-loop control of the top pressure preset by the pre-tightening device 8. According to this embodiment, the open-loop / closed-loop control device 36 is connected to the actuator unit 26, the position detection unit 34, and the drive device 11, and is configured to open-loop / closed-loop control the position of the adjustment element 14 relative to the lifting unit 3.

[0093] The top pressure can be inferred or calculated by adjusting the position of the adjusting element 14 relative to the lifting unit 3. Accordingly, the open-loop control device / closed-loop control device can determine the position of the adjusting element 14 corresponding to the preset top pressure to be adjusted and automatically move the adjusting element 14 to the desired position through the open-loop control / closed-loop control drive device 11.

[0094] Figure 4 Schematic illustration based on Figures 1 to 3 A side view of the device 1 in detail in the area around the drive wheel 12 and the adjusting wheel 13, wherein the drive wheel 12 and the adjusting wheel 13 are in a coupled state.

[0095] The drive wheel 12 and the adjusting wheel 13 are each configured as friction wheels. Accordingly, the transmission of torque from the drive wheel 12 to the adjusting wheel 13 is achieved through frictional force or frictional torque. For this purpose, the actuator unit 26 presses the drive wheel 12 against the adjusting wheel 13 with a preset clamping force.

[0096] As can be seen here, the locking unit 33 has a locking element 25 in the form of a fastening fork with a contact surface 28 facing opposite to the adjusting wheel 13, and the locking unit 33 and the adjusting wheel 13 can form contact via the contact surface. The locking element 25 is pre-tightened toward the adjusting wheel 13 by means of a pre-tightening element in the form of a spring 29. The pre-tightening causes the locking element 25 to press against the outer circumferential surface of the adjusting wheel 13 via the contact surface 28, thereby locking the adjusting wheel to prevent rotation.

[0097] The adjustment device 10 includes a release element 30 for releasing the lock provided by the locking unit 33 on the adjustment wheel 13. The release element is configured to move synchronously with the drive wheel 12 and is pre-tightened toward the locking unit 33 by means of a spring 31.

[0098] An actuator, preferably a pneumatic cylinder, hydraulic cylinder, or linear motor, may also be provided for the spring 31 to actively move the releasing element 30 relative to the drive wheel 12 in the longitudinal direction 2.

[0099] Because the drive wheel 12 is coupled to the adjusting wheel 13, the releasing element 30 is in a state in which the locking element 25 moves in the longitudinal direction 2 against the preload provided by the spring 29, causing the contact surface 28 and the adjusting wheel 13 to disengage. The adjusting wheel 13 can then rotate.

[0100] thereby, Figure 4 The states shown correspond to the coupling states of the regulating device 10 and the pre-tightening device 8 relative to each other.

[0101] Figure 5 schematically shown Figure 4 Details of device 1, wherein the drive wheel 12 moves longitudinally away from the adjusting wheel 13 by means of actuator unit 26, so that there is no contact between the drive wheel 12 and the adjusting wheel 13 and thus no longer any coupling.

[0102] Due to the preload caused by the spring 31, the releasing element 30 is still in contact with the locking unit 33, but has been raised in the longitudinal direction 2 by a predetermined value, so that the contact surface 28 makes contact with the adjusting wheel 13 again, thereby locking the adjusting wheel 13 to prevent rotation.

[0103] The adjusting device 10 and the pre-tightening device 8 relative to each other Figure 5 The states shown correspond to intermediate states between coupled and decoupled states.

[0104] Figure 6 schematically shown Figure 4 Details of device 1 are shown, wherein the adjusting device 10 is in a state of decoupling from the pre-tightening device 8. Accordingly, the drive wheel 12 and the releasing element 30 are disengaged from the adjusting wheel 13 or the locking unit 33.

[0105] There is a preset gap 32 between the lower side of the releasing element 30 and the upper side of the locking unit 33.

[0106] exist Figure 6 The states shown correspond to the decoupling states of the regulating device 10 and the pre-tightening device 8 relative to each other.

[0107] from Figure 7 The diagram shows how to obtain the information. Figure 3 A partial perspective side view of the area, wherein the adjusting device 10, more precisely the drive wheel 12 and the releasing element 30, are in contact with the pre-tightening device 8, more precisely the drive wheel 8 and the locking unit 33, according to... Figure 6 In the decoupled state.

[0108] from Figures 8 to 10 The diagram schematically illustrates a device 1 for sealing a container with a container closure element according to another embodiment, similar to... Figures 4 to 6 A side view showing details. Figures 8 to 10 Device 1 basically corresponds to Figures 1 to 7 The devices, including the regulating device 10, have some differences. These differences will be discussed below.

[0109] Unlike the previously described embodiments, in this embodiment, the drive wheel 12 is preloaded toward the adjusting wheel 13 via a spring 31 on the actuator unit 26 and the release element 30. The release element 30 is directly connected to the actuator unit 26, thus eliminating the preload as in the previously described embodiments.

[0110] exist Figure 8 In the middle, the adjusting device 10 and the pre-tightening device 8 are in a decoupled state, and correspondingly have a preset distance 32 between them.

[0111] exist Figure 9 In this process, the releasing element 30 and the drive wheel 12 move towards the adjusting wheel 13 along the longitudinal direction 2 until the drive wheel 12 first contacts the adjusting wheel 13. According to this embodiment, the releasing element 30 is simultaneously fitted onto the locking element 25; however, the releasing element and the locking element have not yet moved along the longitudinal direction 2. Therefore, the contact surface 28 of the locking element 25 also contacts the adjusting wheel 13 and locks the adjusting wheel to prevent rotation. Thus, in... Figure 9 The state shown is similar to Figure 5 The intermediate state.

[0112] exist Figure 10 The diagram shows the coupling state between the regulating device 10 and the pre-tightening device 8. In this state, automatic adjustment of the top pressure provided by the pre-tightening device 8 is feasible.

[0113] and Figure 9 In contrast, the releasing element 30 moves further toward the adjusting wheel 13 via the actuator unit 26, causing the locking element 25 to move along the longitudinal direction 2 and no longer contact the adjusting wheel 13 by means of its contact surface 28. Accordingly, rotation of the adjusting wheel 13 is possible.

[0114] Drive wheel 12 is pressed against adjusting wheel 13 via spring 31. This provides the driving force required to transmit frictional torque. Preferably, spring 31 is configured as a mechanical spring, as in... Figure 9 As indicated, and / or the pneumatic spring 31 is preferably constructed in the form of a pneumatic cylinder. Alternatively or additionally, for example, regarding the spring 31... Figure 4 As described, an actuator may also be provided to actively move the release element 30.

[0115] In this embodiment, the adjusting wheel 13 is always in contact with the contact surface 28 or the drive wheel 12, meaning it is not in a freely rotatable state at any given time. Undesirable adjustments to the angular position of the adjusting wheel 13, such as those caused by vibration, are thus prevented after the adjusting wheel disengages from the contact surface 28 and before it makes contact with the drive wheel 12.

[0116] exist Figure 11 The image schematically shows a perspective side view of details of a device 1 for sealing a container with a container closure according to another embodiment. The device 1 substantially corresponds to... Figures 1 to 3 The device. The device and... Figure 1 This differs from device 1, which is in the form of an inserted transmission device 15, used to couple the adjusting wheel 13 to the adjusting element 14. Furthermore, the adjusting wheel 13 is configured here as a friction wheel with teeth.

[0117] As from Figure 11 As obtained, in this embodiment, the transmission device 15 is configured as a worm gear transmission device 15, which provides coupling between the adjusting wheel 13 and the adjusting element 14, such that the rotation of the adjusting wheel 13 about the rotation axis 16 of the adjusting wheel 13, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 2, causes the adjusting element 14 to move in the longitudinal direction 2.

[0118] Therefore, the worm 38 of the worm gear transmission device 15, oriented along the rotation axis 16, is disposed on the side of the adjusting wheel 13 or rotatably coupled to the adjusting wheel. The worm 38 engages with the worm wheel 39 disposed on the side of the adjusting element 14.

[0119] Worm Gear 39 is similar to Figure 2 Includes an internal threaded portion 19, not shown here, which engages with the external threaded portion 20 of the adjusting element 14.

[0120] According to the optional embodiment, the transmission ratio of the worm gear transmission device is 9 to 1.

[0121] Wherever applicable, all individual features described in the embodiments may be combined and / or interchanged with each other without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0122] List of reference numerals

[0123] 1 device

[0124] 2. Longitudinal direction

[0125] 3 lifting units

[0126] 4 guiding units

[0127] 5 guiding elements

[0128] 6 supports

[0129] 7. Enclosure Receiving Section

[0130] 8 Pre-tightening device

[0131] 9 drives

[0132] 10. Adjustment equipment

[0133] 11. Drive device

[0134] 12 drive wheels

[0135] 13 Adjustment Wheel

[0136] 14 Adjustment elements

[0137] 15. Transmission device

[0138] 16. Rotation axis

[0139] 17. Bevel gears

[0140] 18 Bevel gears

[0141] 19. Threaded section

[0142] 20 Threaded section

[0143] 21 Anti-torsion device

[0144] 22 Compression Spring Components

[0145] 23. Compression Spring

[0146] 24 Connecting cylinder

[0147] 25 Locking elements

[0148] 26 Actuator Units

[0149] 27 Chain Drive

[0150] 28 Contact surfaces

[0151] 29 Springs

[0152] 30 Loosen the component

[0153] 31 Spring

[0154] 32 spacing

[0155] 33 Locking Unit

[0156] 34 Position Detection Units

[0157] 35 Sensor Board

[0158] 36 Open-loop control devices / Closed-loop control devices

[0159] 37 Sensors

[0160] 38 worm gear

[0161] 39 Worm Gear

[0162] 100 closure

[0163] 101 Rotation axis

[0164] 102 Rotation direction

[0165] 110 Enclosure Turntable

[0166] 111 Container Reception Section

[0167] 120 base

Claims

1. An apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element, The device includes a lifting unit (3) movable along the longitudinal direction (2), the lifting unit having a guide unit (4) for presetting the position of the lifting unit (3) along the longitudinal direction (2), and The closure receiving part (7), connected to the lifting unit (3) via the pre-tightening device (8), is used to hold the container closure and to apply the container closure to the container opening of the container to be closed by means of a top pressure preset by the pre-tightening device (8). Its features are, The pre-tightening device (8) includes an adjustment element (14) movable relative to the lifting unit (3) in the longitudinal direction and an adjustment wheel (13) for adjusting the position of the adjustment element (14) relative to the lifting unit (3) in the longitudinal direction (2). It is provided with an adjustment device (10) for automatically adjusting the top pressure preset by the pre-tightening device (8).

2. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 1, Its features are, A support (6) is provided for connection to the enclosure transport equipment, wherein the lifting unit (3) is movably mounted on the support (6) along the longitudinal direction (2).

3. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 1 or 2, Its features are, The pre-tensioning device (8) includes a pressure spring element (22) disposed between the adjusting element (14) and the closure receiving portion (7), the pressure spring element being used to provide a preset top pressure to the closure receiving portion (7), and / or The pre-tightening device (8) is disposed on the guide unit (4) and / or the adjusting element (14) is movably held on the guide unit (4).

4. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to the preceding claim, Its features are, The adjusting element (14) is configured as an adjusting rod, and / or the adjusting element (14) has a threaded section (20) through which the adjusting element (14) engages with the threaded portion (19) of the preload device (8), and / or The adjusting element (14) is held anti-torsional on the lifting unit (3) with respect to the longitudinal direction (2).

5. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 1 or 2, Its features are, The adjusting wheel (13) is used to adjust the top pressure.

6. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 5, Its features are, The pre-tightening device (8) includes a transmission device (15).

7. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 5, Its features are, The pretensioning device (8) includes a locking unit (25) for locking the pretensioning device (8).

8. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 1 or 2, Its features are, A position detection unit (34) is provided, which is used to detect the position of the adjustment element (14) relative to the lifting unit (3).

9. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 5, Its features are, The adjustment device (10) is configured to be coupled to the pre-tightening device (8).

10. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 5, Its features are, The regulating device (10) includes a driving device (11) for automatically driving the regulating device (10).

11. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to the preceding claim, Its features are, The adjusting device (10) includes a drive wheel (12) coupled to the adjusting wheel (13) of the pretensioning device (8), wherein the adjusting device (10) includes an actuator unit (33) for moving the drive wheel (12) toward and away from the adjusting wheel, and / or the adjusting device (10) includes a releasing element (30) for releasing the locking unit (33) of the pretensioning device (8), and / or The device (1) for sealing the container with the container closure includes an open-loop control device / closed-loop control device (36) for open-loop control / closed-loop control of the top pressure preset by the pre-tightening device (8).

12. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 1 or 2, Its features are, The closure receiving portion (7) can be releasably held on the lifting unit (3).

13. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 1, Its features are, The apparatus for sealing containers with container closures is configured to seal beverage containers with roll closures, spiral closures, compression closures, bottle caps, and / or press-fit closures.

14. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 2, Its features are, The bracket is designed to be connected to the closure turntable (110).

15. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 3, Its features are, The position of the adjusting element (14) along the longitudinal direction (2) can be adjusted by the adjusting device (10).

16. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 4, Its features are, The adjusting element (14) is held anti-torsionally on the lifting unit (3) about the longitudinal direction (2) via a pin guided in a slot on the lifting unit (3).

17. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 4, Its features are, The adjusting element (14) is held anti-torsionally on the guide unit (4) of the lifting unit (3) about the longitudinal direction (2) via a pin guided in the groove on the lifting unit (3).

18. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 5, Its features are, The adjusting wheel (13) and the adjusting element (14) are coupled such that the adjusting element (14) can be moved relative to the lifting unit (3) by rotating the adjusting wheel (13), and / or the adjusting wheel (13) is configured as a friction wheel or a toothed wheel.

19. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 6, Its features are, The pre-tensioning device (8) includes a bevel gear transmission device (15), a worm gear transmission device (15), or an overlapping belt transmission device.

20. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 6, Its features are, The transmission device (15) is disposed between the adjusting wheel (13) and the adjusting element (14).

21. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 6, Its features are, The transmission device (15) provides coupling between the adjusting wheel (13) and the adjusting element (14).

22. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 6, Its features are, A threaded portion (19) that engages with the threaded section (20) of the adjusting element (14) is provided on the transmission wheel of the transmission device (15).

23. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 6, Its features are, The threaded portion (19) that engages with the threaded section (20) of the adjusting element (14) is provided on the bevel gear (18) or worm gear (39) of the transmission device (15).

24. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 7, Its features are, The locking unit is configured to lock the adjusting wheel (13) to prevent rotation and / or to lock the adjusting element (14) to prevent movement.

25. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 7, Its features are, The locking unit (25) includes a locking element (33) movable relative to the adjusting wheel (13) and a pre-tightening element for pre-tightening the locking element (33) relative to the adjusting wheel (13).

26. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 25, Its features are, The preload element is a spring (29).

27. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 25, Its features are, The locking element (33) is configured in the form of a fastening fork.

28. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 8, Its features are, The position detection unit is designed to detect the position of the adjustment element (14) relative to the guide unit (4).

29. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 8, Its features are, The position detection unit (34) includes a sensor (37) configured to detect the position of the adjustment element (14) relative to the lifting unit (3) when viewed along the longitudinal direction (2).

30. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 8, Its features are, The position detection unit (34) includes a sensor (37) configured to detect the position of the adjustment element (14) relative to the guide unit (4) when viewed along the longitudinal direction (2).

31. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 9, Its features are, The adjusting device (10) includes a drive wheel (12) that is coupled to the adjusting wheel (13) of the pre-tightening device (8).

32. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 31, Its features are, The drive wheel (12) is configured as a friction wheel or as a wheel with teeth.

33. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 31, Its features are, The drive wheel (12) is configured to move toward the adjustment wheel (13) in order to be coupled with the adjustment wheel (13) and to move away from the adjustment wheel (13) in order to be decoupled.

34. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 10, Its features are, The regulating device (10) includes a drive device (11) for automatically driving the drive wheel (12) of the regulating device (10).

35. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 10, Its features are, The drive device (11) includes a motor.

36. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 10, Its features are, The drive device (11) includes an electric motor.

37. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 10, Its features are, The drive device (11) includes a stepper motor and / or a DC motor.

38. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 11, Its features are, The release element (30) can be configured to move synchronously with the drive wheel (12).

39. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 11, Its features are, The releasing element (30) is configured to hold the locking unit (33) in a released state when the drive wheel (12) is positioned in a position coupled to the adjusting wheel (13), and is configured not to act on the locking unit (33) when the drive wheel (12) is positioned in a position decoupled from the adjusting wheel (13).

40. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 11, Its features are, The release element (30) is pre-tightened relative to the drive wheel (12) in the direction of the locking unit (33).

41. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 11, Its features are, The release element (30) is positioned relative to the drive wheel (12) in a manner that points toward the ground spring preload in the direction of the locking unit (33).

42. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 11, Its features are, The open-loop control device / closed-loop control device (36) is configured to control the position of the adjustment element (14) relative to the lifting unit (3) in an open-loop / closed-loop manner.

43. The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure element according to claim 11, Its features are, The open-loop control device / closed-loop control device (36) is configured to control the position of the adjustment element (14) relative to the guide unit (4) in an open-loop / closed-loop manner.

44. A closure (100) for closing a container by means of a container closure element, said closure comprising a rotatable closure turntable (110) having a container receiving portion (111) for receiving the container to be closed. Its features are, The apparatus (1) for sealing a container with a container closure member according to any one of the preceding claims is disposed on the closure turntable (110) in association with the container receiving portion (111).

45. The closure (100) according to claim 44, Its features are, The closure is configured to seal a beverage container using a roll closure, a spiral closure, a compression closure, a cap, and / or a press-fit closure.

Images