Filling head, filling device and filling method thereof

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a filling head, a filling device and a filling method thereof. The filling head has a longitudinal axis and comprises an inlet region and an outlet region along the longitudinal axis; the filling head comprises a channel assembly connecting the inlet region and the outlet region and configured to transfer the fluid from the inlet region to the outlet region, the channel assembly has two outlets arranged at the outlet region, the fluid is discharged from the two outlets through the channel assembly, and the channel assembly is curved so that the two liquid outlet directions of the two outlets are divergent; wherein the included angles between the two liquid outlet directions and the longitudinal axis are different, and / or the transverse spacings between the two outlets and the longitudinal axis are different. The filling head provided by the present disclosure can reduce or even avoid the formation of liquid splashes or foam in the package, thereby reducing the risk of contaminating the filling device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a filling head, a filling apparatus, and a filling method. Background Technology

[0002] Filling equipment is used to fill liquid products into packaging, such as food products like milk, juice, slurry, or yogurt. During the filling process, due to the high filling speed, liquid splashing or foaming can easily form in the packaging, which can affect the sealing of the packaging or contaminate the filling equipment. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This disclosure provides a filling head, a filling device, and a filling method thereof.

[0004] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, a filling head is provided for filling fluid, the filling head having a longitudinal axis and including an inlet region and an outlet region along the longitudinal axis, the inlet region being configured to allow the fluid to flow in, and the outlet region being configured to allow the fluid to exit; the filling head further includes: a channel assembly connecting the inlet region and the outlet region and configured to convey the fluid from the inlet region to the outlet region, the channel assembly having two outlets disposed in the outlet region, the fluid being ejected from the two outlets through the channel assembly, the channel assembly being curved such that the two liquid discharge directions of the two outlets are divergent; wherein the two liquid discharge directions have different angles with respect to the longitudinal axis, and / or the two outlets have different lateral spacings with respect to the longitudinal axis.

[0005] In at least some embodiments, the two outlets include a first outlet and a second outlet; the channel assembly includes a first conduit and a second conduit; the first conduit includes a first bend connected to the first outlet, the central axis of the first bend being inclined relative to the longitudinal axis at a first tilt angle; the second conduit includes a second bend connected to the second outlet, the central axis of the second bend being inclined relative to the longitudinal axis at a second tilt angle; wherein the first tilt angle and the second tilt angle are different.

[0006] In at least some embodiments, the first tilt angle is in the range of 15 degrees to 25 degrees; the second tilt angle is in the range of 15 degrees to 25 degrees; and the difference between the first tilt angle and the second tilt angle is in the range of 2 degrees to 5 degrees.

[0007] In at least some embodiments, the filling head further includes an end face perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and the first outlet and the second outlet are located on the end face; the first outlet and the second outlet are located on both sides of the longitudinal axis along a first transverse direction parallel to the end face, and the two liquid discharge directions are located in the same longitudinal plane parallel to the longitudinal axis and perpendicular to the end face.

[0008] In at least some embodiments, the first curved portion and the second curved portion are located on both sides of the longitudinal axis along the first transverse direction, and the central axis of the first curved portion and the central axis of the second curved portion are located in the same longitudinal plane.

[0009] In at least some embodiments, the two outlets include a first outlet and a second outlet; the channel assembly further includes: a first inlet and a second inlet located in the inlet region; a first conduit connecting the first inlet and the first outlet, the first conduit having a first lateral distance from the longitudinal axis; and a second conduit connecting the second inlet and the second outlet, the second conduit having a second lateral distance from the longitudinal axis; wherein the first lateral distance and the second lateral distance are different.

[0010] In at least some embodiments, the filling head further includes an end face perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, with the first outlet and the second outlet located on the end face; the first conduit and the second conduit are located on both sides of the longitudinal axis along a first lateral direction parallel to the end face, and the first lateral distance and the second lateral distance are both along the first lateral direction.

[0011] In at least some embodiments, the first conduit includes a first bend connected to the first outlet and a first connecting portion connected to the first bend; the second conduit includes a second bend connected to the second outlet and a second connecting portion connected to the second bend; the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion extend in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis and are located on both sides of the longitudinal axis in the first transverse direction.

[0012] In at least some embodiments, the first lateral distance is the distance between the first connecting portion and the longitudinal axis along the first lateral direction, and the value of the first lateral distance is in the range of 4mm to 10mm; the second lateral distance is the distance between the second connecting portion and the longitudinal axis along the first lateral direction, and the value of the second lateral distance is in the range of 4mm to 10mm; the difference between the first lateral distance and the second lateral distance is in the range of 2mm to 3mm.

[0013] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a filling apparatus is provided, including the filling head described above.

[0014] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, a filling method employing the above-described filling head is provided.

[0015] In at least some embodiments, the filling method described above includes: providing a package to be filled, wherein the package has an opening and a sidewall defining the opening, the opening being configured to face two outlets facing the filling head, and the sidewall having an indentation line for sealing the opening after filling; filling the package with the fluid, wherein the fluid enters the opening in two jets through the two outlets; wherein the two jets contact the sidewall on the side of the indentation line away from the opening.

[0016] In at least some embodiments, the two jets include a first jet and a second jet, the first jet contacts the sidewall in a first contact area, the second jet contacts the sidewall in a second contact area, the first contact area is different from the second contact area, and the distance between the first contact area and the opening along the longitudinal axis is not equal to the distance between the second contact area and the opening along the longitudinal axis.

[0017] In at least some embodiments, the packaging has a central axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the filling head, and the central axis is configured to coincide with the longitudinal axis when the fluid is filled into the packaging.

[0018] In at least some embodiments, the packaging has a central axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the filling head, and the central axis is configured to coincide with the longitudinal axis of the filling head when the fluid is filled into the packaging.

[0019] In at least some embodiments, the filling method further includes, before filling the fluid into the package, conveying the package along a conveying direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filling head; and the channel assembly being a plurality of such assemblies, the arrangement of such plurality of channel assemblies being substantially parallel to the conveying direction.

[0020] In at least some embodiments, the packaging includes: a sealing structure disposed opposite to the opening and including an end connected to the sidewall, the cross-section of the end being gradually reduced; wherein the liquid level of the fluid filled into the packaging is equal to or higher than the connection between the end and the sidewall. Attached Figure Description

[0021] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure, the accompanying drawings of the embodiments will be briefly described below. Obviously, the drawings described below only relate to some embodiments of this disclosure and are not intended to limit this disclosure.

[0022] Figure 1 A perspective view of a filling head provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0023] Figure 2 A simplified cross-sectional schematic diagram of the filling head provided in the embodiments of this disclosure during the filling process;

[0024] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A top view of the filling head;

[0025] Figure 4 A perspective view of the filling head provided in an embodiment of this disclosure, viewed from a second perspective.

[0026] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the filling head and packaging provided in the embodiments of this disclosure during the filling process;

[0027] Figure 6 for Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the two liquid outlet directions of the filling head;

[0028] Figure 7 A partially enlarged schematic diagram of the first and second conduits in the filling head provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0029] Figure 8 A partial structural schematic diagram of a filling head provided in another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0030] Figure 9 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a filling head provided according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the filling head and packaging on the conveying device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a package provided according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0033] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this disclosure clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this disclosure. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the described embodiments of this disclosure without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0034] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used herein shall have the ordinary meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. The terms “first,” “second,” and similar terms used in this patent application specification and claims do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different components. Terms such as “comprising” or “including” indicate that the element or object preceding “comprising” or “including” encompasses the element or object listed following “comprising” or “including” and its equivalents, and do not exclude other elements or objects. Terms such as “connected” or “linked” are not limited to physical or mechanical connections, but may include electrical connections, whether direct or indirect. Terms such as “upper,” “lower,” “left,” and “right” are used only to indicate relative positional relationships, and these relative positional relationships may change accordingly when the absolute position of the described object changes.

[0035] In the liquid filling process, it is necessary to fill the liquid into the packaging as quickly as possible to achieve high-speed and high-volume filling. Typically, a filling device includes a liquid supply device and a filling head. The inlet area of ​​the filling head is connected to the liquid supply device to receive the liquid, and the outlet area is provided with multiple outlets through which the liquid is filled into the packaging (e.g., a box) to be filled.

[0036] However, existing filling heads, due to their high flow rates, can cause liquid splashing or foaming during filling. When splashed onto the sealing area of ​​the packaging box, it can affect the sealing effect, such as reducing the seal. If splashed outside the packaging box, such as onto the filling device, it can contaminate the filling device. In addition, when the liquid forms foam, it affects the taste when consumed.

[0037] Therefore, embodiments of this disclosure provide a filling head, a filling device, and a filling method thereof, which can reduce or even avoid liquid splashing or foam formation.

[0038] At least one embodiment of this disclosure provides a filling head for filling fluid. The filling head has a longitudinal axis and includes an inlet region and an outlet region along the longitudinal axis. The inlet region is configured to allow fluid to flow in, and the outlet region is configured to allow fluid to exit. The filling head also includes a channel assembly connecting the inlet region and the outlet region and configured to convey fluid from the inlet region to the outlet region. The channel assembly has two outlets disposed in the outlet region, through which fluid is ejected from the two outlets. The channel assembly is curved so that the two liquid discharge directions of the two outlets are divergent. The two liquid discharge directions have different angles with respect to the longitudinal axis and / or different lateral distances between the two outlets and the longitudinal axis.

[0039] In the filling head provided in the above-described embodiments of this disclosure, by making the angle between the liquid outlet direction and the longitudinal axis different for the two outlets and / or making the lateral distance between the two outlets and the longitudinal axis different, it is possible to reduce or even avoid liquid splashing or foaming in the packaging, thereby reducing the risk of contaminating the filling device.

[0040] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the two liquid outlet directions can be set to have different angles with respect to the longitudinal axis, or the two outlets can be set to have different lateral spacing with respect to the longitudinal axis, or the two liquid outlet directions can be set to have different angles with respect to the longitudinal axis and the two outlets can be set to have different lateral spacing with respect to the longitudinal axis. All three implementation methods can reduce or avoid liquid splashing or foaming in the packaging. This embodiment of the disclosure does not limit the scope of the implementation.

[0041] In this embodiment of the disclosure, "fluid" refers to a pourable product, which can be a liquid or a mixture of liquid and solid particles. For example, liquids include, but are not limited to, at least one of fruit juice, milk, yogurt, etc., and solid particles include, but are not limited to, at least one of fruit pieces, vegetables, nuts, etc. This embodiment of the disclosure does not limit the specific types of solid particles.

[0042] The present disclosure will now be described through several specific embodiments. To keep the following description of the embodiments of the present disclosure clear and concise, detailed descriptions of known functions and components may be omitted. When any component of an embodiment of the present disclosure appears in more than one drawing, the component may be represented by the same reference numerals in each drawing.

[0043] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the filling head provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 This is a simplified cross-sectional schematic diagram of the filling head provided in the embodiments of this disclosure during the filling process. Figure 3 for Figure 1 A top view of the filling head. Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the filling head provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from a second perspective. Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the filling head and packaging provided in the embodiments of this disclosure during the filling process.

[0044] like Figures 1 to 4As shown, this disclosure provides a filling head 100 for filling fluids. The filling head 100 has a longitudinal axis MM, for example, the longitudinal axis MM extends along the longitudinal direction Z. The filling head 100 includes an inlet region 10 and an outlet region 20 along its longitudinal axis MM. The inlet region 10 is configured to allow fluid to flow in, and the outlet region 20 is configured to allow fluid to leave. For example, the inlet region 10 and the outlet region 20 are disposed opposite each other along the longitudinal axis MM. The inlet region 10 is used to receive or store a certain amount of fluid, and the outlet region 20 is used to eject the fluid into the package to be filled.

[0045] like Figure 2 As shown, the filling head 100 also includes a channel assembly 30, connecting the inlet region 10 and the outlet region 20 and configured to convey fluid from the inlet region 10 to the outlet region 20. The channel assembly 30 includes two inlets disposed in the inlet region 10, such as a first inlet 101 and a second inlet 102, and two outlets disposed in the outlet region 20, such as a first outlet 201 and a second outlet 202. Fluid enters through the first inlet 101 and the second inlet 102 of the channel assembly 30 and flows out from the first outlet 201 and the second outlet 202.

[0046] To explain the working principle of the filling head 100 during the filling process Figure 2 The valve stem 300 of the sealing element 200 is further shown; however, these components are not part of the filling head 100. (As shown) Figure 2 As shown, at the start of filling, the valve stem 300 is raised, and the blocking element 200 moves away from the filling head 100 along the longitudinal axis MM. At this time, fluid can flow from the inlet region 10 into the channel assembly 30 in the direction shown by the arrow. When filling stops, the valve stem 300 is lowered, and the blocking element 200 moves towards the filling head 100 and is squeezed into the inlet region 10, thereby blocking or closing the first inlet 101 and the second inlet 102 of the inlet region 10.

[0047] like Figure 2 and Figure 5As shown, the channel assembly 30 is designed to be curved so that the first liquid discharge direction F1 of the first outlet 201 and the second liquid discharge direction F2 of the second outlet 202 diverge. For example, the portion of the channel assembly 30 near the first outlet 201 and the second outlet 202 is curved. In the longitudinal section of the filling port 100 along the longitudinal axis MM, the curved portion of the channel assembly 30 has a funnel shape so that the two liquid discharge directions F1 and F2 also have a funnel shape. By designing the channel assembly 30 to be curved so that the first liquid discharge direction F1 of the first outlet 201 and the second liquid discharge direction F2 of the second outlet 202 diverge, it is beneficial for the first jet S1 ejected from the first outlet 201 and the second jet S2 ejected from the second outlet 202 to be ejected toward the sidewall of the packaging and flow down the sidewall, thereby reducing the liquid flow velocity and thus reducing the risk of liquid splashing.

[0048] like Figure 5 As shown, during the filling process, the package 40 to be filled is located below the filling head 100. The package 40 has an opening 43 and a sidewall 42 defining the opening 43, the opening 43 being configured to face a first outlet 201 and a second outlet 202 of the filling head 100.

[0049] The inventors discovered that one of the main causes of liquid splashing when filling liquids using existing filling heads is the convergence of two jets at the center of the bottom surface of the packaging. Due to the high jet velocity of the two jets, when they converge at this point, they are very likely to splash onto the sealed area of ​​the packaging opening or splash out of the opening, resulting in poor packaging sealing or contamination of the filling device, and also making it easier to generate foam.

[0050] Therefore, this disclosure provides an improved approach. Figure 6 for Figure 5 A schematic diagram showing the two liquid outlet directions of the filling head. (See diagram below.) Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown in the embodiment of this disclosure, the first liquid outlet direction F1 has a first included angle b1 with the longitudinal axis MM, and the second liquid outlet direction F2 has a second included angle b2 with the longitudinal axis MM, wherein the first included angle b1 is greater than the second included angle b2. Figure 5 As shown, since the first included angle b1 is greater than the second included angle b2, the contact positions of the first jet S1 and the second jet S2 with the side wall 42 of the packaging 40 are different. When the first jet S1 and the second jet S2 flow down the side wall 42 to the bottom surface, they can converge at a position away from the center of the bottom surface, thereby changing the direction of the two jets after the collision and reducing the risk of forming large splashes or foam.

[0051] Figure 5 and Figure 6The illustration only shows the case where the first included angle b1 of the first liquid outlet direction F1 is greater than the second included angle b2 of the second liquid outlet direction F2. It is understood that in other embodiments, the first included angle b1 may also be smaller than the second included angle b2. As long as the first included angle b1 and the second included angle b2 are not equal, the first jet S1 and the second jet S2 can be made to converge at a position away from the center of the bottom surface, thereby changing the direction of the two jets after the collision and reducing the risk of forming large splashes or foam. Therefore, this disclosure does not limit this aspect.

[0052] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the value of the first included angle b1 is in the range of 15 degrees to 25 degrees; the value of the second included angle b2 is in the range of 15 degrees to 25 degrees; and the value of the difference between the first included angle b1 and the second included angle b2 is in the range of 2 degrees to 5 degrees.

[0053] like Figure 5 As shown, the channel assembly 30 includes a first conduit 310 and a second conduit 320. For example, the first conduit 310 includes a first bend 311 connected to a first outlet 201 and a first connecting portion 312 connected to the first bend 311. For example, the second conduit 320 includes a second bend 321 connected to a second outlet 202 and a second connecting portion 322 connected to the second bend 321. The first connecting portion 312 is connected to the first outlet 201, and the second connecting portion 322 is connected to the second outlet 202. Thus, fluid entering from the first inlet 101 flows out from the first outlet 201 after passing through the first connecting portion 312 and the first bend 311, forming a first jet S1; fluid entering from the second inlet 102 flows out from the second outlet 202 after passing through the second connecting portion 322 and the first bend 321, forming a second jet S2.

[0054] like Figure 5 As shown, the central axis O1 of the first bend 311 is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis MM at a first inclination angle a1. The central axis O2 of the second bend 321 is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis MM at a second inclination angle a2. For example, the first inclination angle a1 is greater than the second inclination angle a2. By setting the first inclination angle a1 to be greater than the second inclination angle a2, the path of the fluid in the first conduit 310 and the second conduit 320 can be changed, thereby changing the first outlet direction F1 and the second outlet direction F2 of the fluid, which is more conducive to forming two jets S1 and S2 with different outlet angles, thereby reducing the risk of generating large splashes or foam.

[0055] Figure 5The illustration only shows the case where the first tilt angle a1 of the first curved portion 311 is greater than the second tilt angle a2 of the second curved portion 321. It is understood that in other embodiments, the first tilt angle a1 may also be less than the second tilt angle a2. As long as the first tilt angle a1 and the second tilt angle a2 are not equal, the first included angle b1 of the first liquid discharge direction F1 can be made not equal to the second included angle b2 of the second liquid discharge direction F2, thereby causing the first jet S1 and the second jet S2 to converge at a position away from the center of the bottom surface, thereby reducing or avoiding liquid splashing or foaming in the packaging. Therefore, this disclosure does not limit the embodiments in this way.

[0056] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the first tilt angle a1 ranges from 15 degrees to 25 degrees; the second tilt angle a2 ranges from 15 degrees to 25 degrees; and the difference between the first tilt angle a1 and the second tilt angle a2 ranges from 2 degrees to 5 degrees.

[0057] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, for example, the filling head 100 also includes an end face 210 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis MM, with a first outlet 201 and a second outlet 202 located on the end face 210; the first outlet 201 and the second outlet 202 are located on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis MM along a first transverse direction X parallel to the end face 210. For example, the first liquid discharge direction F1 and the second liquid discharge direction F2 are located in the same longitudinal plane P parallel to the longitudinal axis MM and perpendicular to the end face 210. By making the first liquid discharge direction F1 and the second liquid discharge direction F2 located in the same longitudinal plane P, the two jets S1 and S2 can be prevented from hitting the uneven areas of the side wall 42 of the packaging 40, such as the corners of the side wall 42 (usually the side wall has four corners), which can further reduce liquid splashing caused by the jets colliding with the corners. In one example, the first liquid outlet direction F1, the second liquid outlet direction F2, and the longitudinal axis MM are coplanar, for example, all located in a longitudinal plane passing through the longitudinal axis MM and perpendicular to the end face 210. This can further reduce liquid splashing caused by the jet colliding with the corner.

[0058] like Figure 3 and Figure 5As shown, for example, the first bend 311 and the second bend 321 are located on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis MM along the first transverse direction X, and the central axis O1 of the first bend 311 and the central axis O2 of the second bend 321 are located in the same longitudinal plane P. By making the central axis O1 of the first bend 311 and the central axis O2 of the second bend 321 located in the same longitudinal plane P, it is beneficial to control the liquid discharge direction, so that the first liquid discharge direction F1 and the second liquid discharge direction F2 are located in the same longitudinal plane P. In one example, the central axis O1 of the first bend 311, the central axis O2 of the second bend 321, and the longitudinal axis MM are coplanar, for example, all located in a longitudinal plane passing through the longitudinal axis MM and perpendicular to the end face 210, which can further reduce liquid splashing caused by the jet colliding with the corner.

[0059] like Figure 5 As shown, for example, the first connecting portion 312 and the second connecting portion 322 extend in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis MM, and are located on both sides of the longitudinal axis MM along the first transverse direction D1. For example, the central axis of the first connecting portion 312 (not shown) and the central axis of the second connecting portion 322 (not shown) are located in the same longitudinal plane P. In this way, it can be ensured that the fluid reaches the outlet through the shortest path during the filling process, thereby improving the filling speed. In one example, the central axis of the first connecting portion 312, the central axis of the second connecting portion 322, and the longitudinal axis MM are coplanar, for example, all located in a longitudinal plane passing through the longitudinal axis MM and perpendicular to the end face 210, which is beneficial for improving the filling speed and further reducing liquid splashing caused by the jet colliding with the corner.

[0060] Figure 7 This is a partially enlarged schematic diagram of the first and second conduits in a filling head provided according to an embodiment of this disclosure. For example, Figure 7 for Figure 5 A partially enlarged schematic diagram of the first conduit 310 and the second conduit 320 of the filling head 100.

[0061] Combination Figure 5 and Figure 7 The first conduit 310 connects the first inlet 101 and the first outlet 201, and the first conduit 310 has a first lateral distance d1 along the first lateral direction X between it and the longitudinal axis MM. The second conduit 320 connects the second inlet 102 and the second outlet 202, and the second conduit 320 has a second lateral distance d2 along the first lateral direction X between it and the longitudinal axis MM, wherein the first lateral distance d1 and the second lateral distance d2 are equal.

[0062] During the filling process, the longitudinal axis MM of the filling head 100 is usually coaxial with the central axis NN of the packaging 40. In this embodiment, by setting the first lateral distance d1 to be equal to the second lateral distance d2, the liquid outlet direction of the two jets can be maintained, which is therefore preferred.

[0063] Figure 7 Only the case where the first lateral distance d1 and the second lateral distance d2 are equal is shown. It is understood that in this embodiment of the disclosure, the first lateral distance d1 and the second lateral distance d2 may not be equal, as will be described in detail in the following embodiments.

[0064] Figure 8 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a filling head provided in another embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 5 The filling head shown is different in that, Figure 8 The channel assembly 30' includes an inlet 103 located in the inlet region 10 and a conduit 330 having a branching structure 331. That is, Figure 8 The inlet and two outlets are connected using only the bifurcation structure of conduit 330, without employing... Figure 5 It takes the form of two conduits.

[0065] like Figure 8 As shown, for example, the bifurcation structure 331 extends between the inlet 103 and the two outlets 201, 202, so that the inlet 103 is connected to the two outlets 201, 202 via the bifurcation structure 331. Compared to Figure 5 , Figure 8 The design of the conduit may be more complex, but it can reduce the number of inlets and the area occupied.

[0066] Figure 9 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a filling head provided in another embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 The filling head shown is different in that, Figure 9 The first lateral distance d1 between the first conduit 310 and the longitudinal axis MM of the filling head 100 is greater than the second lateral distance d2 between the second conduit 320 and the longitudinal axis MM of the filling head 100. Because the first lateral distance d1 is greater than the second lateral distance d2, the contact positions of the first jet S1 and the second jet S2 with the side wall 42 of the packaging 40 are different. When the first jet S1 and the second jet S2 flow down along the side wall 42 to the bottom surface, they can converge at a position off the center of the bottom surface, thereby changing the direction of the two jets after collision and reducing the risk of splashing into the packaging opening or outside.

[0067] Figure 9Only the case where the first lateral distance d1 is greater than the second lateral distance d2 is shown. It is understood that in other embodiments, the first lateral distance d1 may also be less than the second lateral distance d2. As long as the first lateral distance d1 and the second lateral distance d2 are not equal, the first jet S1 and the second jet S2 can converge at a position off the center of the bottom surface, thereby reducing or avoiding liquid splashing or foaming in the packaging. Therefore, this disclosure does not limit the scope of the embodiments.

[0068] In this embodiment of the disclosure, when the first lateral distance d1 and the second lateral distance d2 are not equal, the first included angle b1 of the first liquid outlet direction F1 and the second included angle b2 of the second liquid outlet direction F2 may be equal or unequal; the first tilt angle a1 of the first curved portion 311 and the second tilt angle a2 of the second curved portion 321 may be equal or unequal. However, when there are many factors affecting the liquid outlet direction of the jet, it will increase the complexity of the filling head design. Therefore, in this embodiment of the disclosure, when the first lateral distance d1 and the second lateral distance d2 are not equal, it is preferable that the first included angle b1 is equal to the second included angle b2, and the first tilt angle a1 is equal to the second tilt angle a2.

[0069] like Figure 9 As shown, the first conduit 310 includes a first bend 311 connected to the first outlet 201 and a first connecting portion 312 connected to the first bend 311; the second conduit 320 includes a second bend 321 connected to the second outlet 202 and a second connecting portion 322 connected to the second bend 321. The first connecting portion 312 and the second connecting portion 322 extend in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis MM and are located on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis MM in a first transverse direction X. By extending the first connecting portion 312 and the second connecting portion 322 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis MM, the fluid can flow to the outlet via the shortest path, thereby increasing the filling speed.

[0070] like Figure 9 As shown, for example, the first lateral distance d1 is the distance between the first connecting part 312 and the longitudinal axis MM along the first lateral direction X; the second lateral distance d2 is the distance between the second connecting part 322 and the longitudinal axis MM along the first lateral direction X.

[0071] In this embodiment, the first lateral distance d1 ranges from 4mm to 10mm; the second lateral distance d2 ranges from 4mm to 10mm; and the difference between the first lateral distance d1 and the second lateral distance d2 ranges from 2mm to 3mm. If the difference is too small, the liquid flow state on both sides will not be significantly different; if the difference is too large, the liquid flow with the larger distance may deviate from the expected landing point on the packaging sidewall. Furthermore, the selection of the first lateral distance d1 and the second lateral distance d2 must consider the processing requirements. If they are too small, the wall thickness between the holes on both sides will be too thin, making processing difficult. Typically, the wall thickness should not be less than 2mm. For a 6mm hole, the minimum distance between the two holes should not be less than 8mm.

[0072] Figure 9 The arrangement of the two inlets, the arrangement of the two outlets, the arrangement of the first curved portion 311 and the second curved portion 321, and the arrangement of the first connecting portion 312 and the second connecting portion 322 can be referred to the description in the previous embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0073] In any of the foregoing embodiments of this disclosure, there may be multiple channel components. Return Figure 3 and Figure 4 The filling head includes four channel assemblies 30. Each channel assembly 30 has a first outlet 101 and a second outlet 102 forming a pair of filling ports. These filling ports are located on either side of the longitudinal axis MM along a first transverse direction X parallel to the end face 210. The four pairs of filling ports (i.e., the four channel assemblies 30) are arranged along a second transverse direction Y parallel to the end face 210, which is perpendicular to the first transverse direction X. By using four channel assemblies 30, the filling speed can be increased, and the liquid filling volume per unit time can be increased.

[0074] Figure 3 Only the case with four channel components is shown. It is understood that in other embodiments, two, three, or more channel components may be provided. Those skilled in the art can select the appropriate number and distribution of channel components based on the volume and area of ​​the package.

[0075] like Figure 3 As shown, the four channel components 30 are arranged at equal intervals in the second lateral direction Y, which simplifies the manufacturing process.

[0076] At least one embodiment of this disclosure also provides a filling apparatus, including the filling head of any of the preceding embodiments.

[0077] At least one embodiment of this disclosure also provides a filling method using the filling head of any of the preceding embodiments.

[0078] In the filling method provided in the above-described embodiments of this disclosure, by making the angle between the liquid outlet direction of the two outlets of the filling head and the longitudinal axis different and / or making the lateral distance between the two outlets and the longitudinal axis different, it is possible to reduce or even avoid the formation of liquid splashing or foam in the packaging during the filling process, thereby reducing the risk of contaminating the filling device.

[0079] For example, with Figure 5 For example, the embodiments provided in this disclosure utilize... Figure 5 The filling methods for the filling head include:

[0080] S100: A package 40 is provided, wherein the package 40 has an opening 43 and a sidewall 42 defining the opening 43, the opening 43 being configured to face a first outlet 201 and a second outlet 202 of a filling head 100, and the sidewall 42 having an indentation line 41 for sealing the opening 43 after filling. For example, the opening 43 is located at the upper end of the package 40, and when the package 40 is filled with liquid, it can be folded along the indentation line 41 and sealed to seal the opening 43.

[0081] S200: Fluid is filled into the package 40, wherein the fluid enters the opening 43 in two jets through the first outlet 201 and the second outlet 202, wherein the two jets contact the sidewall 42 on the side of the indentation line 41 away from the opening 43.

[0082] In this embodiment, the determination of the liquid discharge direction of the two outlets of the filling head mainly considers the spatial position of the filling head and the packaging, as well as the structural features of the filling head and the packaging. By ensuring that the two jets contact the sidewall 42 on the side of the indentation line 41 away from the opening 43, it is not only guaranteed that the liquid flow from the filling head falls onto the sidewall 42 and flows downstream, but it also ensures that the liquid flow does not fall above the indentation line (i.e., the opening to be sealed later), thereby avoiding affecting the subsequent sealing process, and also preventing it from falling directly onto the bottom surface of the packaging, thus avoiding large splashes and foam.

[0083] like Figure 3 As shown, for example, the first jet S1 contacts the sidewall 42 in the first contact area 421, and the second jet S2 contacts the sidewall 42 in the second contact area 422. The first contact area 421 is different from the second contact area 422, and the vertical distance from the first contact area 421 to the opening 43 (i.e., the distance along the longitudinal axis) is not equal to the vertical distance from the second contact area 422 to the opening 43 (i.e., the distance along the longitudinal axis). In this way, it can be ensured that the liquid flows can start flowing down along different positions of the sidewall 42 and finally converge at a position away from the center of the bottom surface, thereby changing the direction of the two jets after collision and reducing the risk of forming large splashes or foam.

[0084] like Figure 3As shown, for example, package 40 has a central axis NN, which is substantially parallel to, and preferably coincides with, the longitudinal axis MM when the filling fluid is introduced into package 40. This facilitates control of the jet direction during filling, allowing the jet to reach the ideal position. The term "substantially parallel" or "substantially parallel" in this disclosure can be understood as generally or substantially parallel, allowing for process errors or deviations.

[0085] As described in the preceding embodiments, the filling head 100 may have multiple channel assemblies, each including a pair of outlets 201, 202. During liquid filling, the liquid can be ejected into the package 40 through the multiple outlets of the multiple channel assemblies, thereby increasing the filling speed.

[0086] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the filling head and packaging on a conveying device according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 10 As shown, during the filling of fluid to Figure 5 Before the packaging 40, the above filling method may also include:

[0087] S300: Convey package 40 along conveying direction V to below filling head 100, where conveying direction V is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis MM of filling head 100. Conveying direction V is, for example, parallel to the first transverse direction X.

[0088] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the liquid in the packaging 40 can be filled at once or in stages until it is full. To avoid liquid splashing caused by excessive jet velocity when filling at once, the staged filling method is mostly adopted in actual production.

[0089] For example, such as Figure 10 As shown, the conveying device 400 first moves the package 40 along the conveying direction V to below the filling head 100 and pauses briefly for the first filling. After the liquid is filled to the designated position inside the package 50, the conveying device 400 moves the package 40 to the next filling head 400 for the second filling and fills the package 40 completely.

[0090] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the filling head 400 may have the same or different construction as the filling head 100. Since the package 40 is empty during the first filling, it is more likely to cause liquid splashing or foaming. Therefore, the filling head 100 provided in this embodiment of the disclosure is preferably used during the first filling.

[0091] Figure 10 The dashed box A is Figure 5 A simplified top view of the filling head 100 and the packaging 40 is shown, wherein the filling head 100 includes four channel assemblies, each including a pair of outlets 201, 202. Liquid is filled into the packaging 40 through eight outlets. When filling is performed using the method shown in dashed box A, the following potential problems exist:

[0092] Since the conveying device 400 (e.g., a conveyor belt or conveyor chain) needs to briefly stop below the filling head 100, the conveyor belt or conveyor chain can be positioned below the filling head 100 and its longitudinal axis MM should be aligned with the central axis of the packaging 40 as much as possible. However, after prolonged use, the conveyor belt or conveyor chain will experience mechanical wear and positioning deviations in the conveying direction V, causing the longitudinal axis MM of the filling head 100 to deviate significantly from the central axis of the packaging 40, thus affecting the jet spraying effect.

[0093] To address the aforementioned potential problems, in this embodiment of the disclosure, the filling head 100 in the dashed box A is rotated by 90°, thereby changing the arrangement direction of the multiple channel components (i.e., Figure 10 The first transverse direction (x) shown is basically parallel to the conveying direction V. In this way, even if there is a positioning deviation of the conveying device 400 in the conveying direction V, it can be ensured that the longitudinal axis MM of the filling head 100 is basically coincident with the central axis of the packaging 40, which does not affect the jet spraying effect.

[0094] The filling head provided in this disclosure can not only fill such as Figure 5 The packaging shown has a flat bottom, but it can also be filled with packaging that has a non-flat bottom.

[0095] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a package provided according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0096] like Figure 11 As shown, the packaging 50 includes an opening 53 and a sidewall 52 defining the opening 53, the opening 53 being configured to face a first outlet 201 and a second outlet 202 of the filling head 100, and the sidewall 52 having an indentation line 51 for sealing the opening 53 after filling.

[0097] like Figure 11 As shown, the packaging 50 also includes a sealing structure 54, which is disposed opposite to the opening 53. The sealing structure 54 includes an end portion 541 connected to the sidewall 52, the cross-section of which gradually tapers. The sealing structure 54 also includes a flow guide 542 that engages with the end portion 541 and a cap 543 that covers the flow guide 542. In this embodiment, by setting the end portion 541 connected to the sidewall 52 to have a gradually tapering cross-section, liquid accumulation at the junction of the sidewall 52 and the end portion 541 can be prevented when pouring liquids (especially viscous liquids such as yogurt).

[0098] Using existing filling heads for filling Figure 11 When packaging 50, if the liquid flow directly collides with the four inclined sidewalls of end 541, it will cause a violent rebound, therefore compared to Figure 5 Packaging 40, Figure 11Packaging 50 is more likely to cause liquid splashing.

[0099] When the filling head of this embodiment is used to fill the package 50, the liquid enters the opening 53 in two jets through at least the first outlet 201 and the second outlet 202. The two jets contact the sidewall 52 on the side of the indentation line 51 away from the opening 53. In this way, not only is it possible to prevent the liquid from hitting the four inclined sidewalls of the end 541 and flowing down the sidewall 52, but it is also ensured that the liquid does not fall above the indentation line 51, thereby avoiding affecting the subsequent sealing of the opening 53.

[0100] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the liquid level of the fluid filled into the packaging is at least flush with the connection 54 between the end 54 and the sidewall 52, that is, the liquid level height is greater than or equal to the connection 54. For example, the total amount of fluid filled into the packaging is 80% or less of the total packaging capacity, preferably 50% or less. In one example, when the total packaging capacity is 250 ml, the total amount of liquid filled in the first filling is 80 ml.

[0101] In the filling head, filling apparatus, and filling method provided in the above-described embodiments of this disclosure, by providing at least one channel assembly on the filling head, and setting the liquid outlet directions of the two outlets of the channel assembly to have different angles with the longitudinal axis, and / or setting the lateral distances between the two outlets and the longitudinal axis to be different, it is possible to reduce or even avoid liquid splashing or foaming in the packaging, thereby reducing the risk of contaminating the filling apparatus. Compared to the existing filling head where the two jets converge at the center of the bottom surface of the packaging after entering the packaging, the filling head provided in the above-described embodiments of this disclosure allows the first and second jets to flow down the sidewall to the bottom surface and converge at a position away from the center of the bottom surface, thereby changing the direction of the two jets after collision and reducing the risk of forming larger splashes or foams.

[0102] The following points should be noted in this article:

[0103] (1) The accompanying drawings of the embodiments of this disclosure only involve the structures involved in the embodiments of this disclosure. Other structures can be referred to the general design.

[0104] (2) Where there is no conflict, the embodiments of this disclosure and the features in the embodiments can be combined with each other to obtain new embodiments.

[0105] The above description is merely an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this disclosure, which is determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A filling head for filling a fluid, the filling head having a longitudinal axis and including an inlet region and an outlet region along the longitudinal axis, the inlet region being configured to allow the fluid to flow in, and the outlet region being configured to allow the fluid to exit; the filling head further comprising: A channel assembly connecting the inlet region and the outlet region and configured to convey the fluid from the inlet region to the outlet region, the channel assembly having two outlets disposed in the outlet region, the fluid being ejected from the two outlets via the channel assembly, the channel assembly being curved so that the two liquid discharge directions of the two outlets are divergent; The fluid enters the opening of the package to be filled through two jets formed by the two outlets. The two jets include a first jet and a second jet. The package to be filled has a sidewall defining the opening. Wherein, the angles between the two liquid outlet directions and the longitudinal axis are different, and / or the lateral distances between the two outlets and the longitudinal axis are different, such that the first jet contacts the sidewall in a first contact area, the second jet contacts the sidewall in a second contact area, and the first contact area is different from the second contact area.

2. The filling head according to claim 1, wherein: The two exits include a first exit and a second exit; The channel assembly includes a first catheter and a second catheter; The first conduit includes a first bend connected to the first outlet, the central axis of the first bend being inclined relative to the longitudinal axis at a first inclination angle; The second conduit includes a second bend that is connected to the second outlet, the central axis of the second bend being inclined relative to the longitudinal axis at a second inclination angle; The first tilt angle and the second tilt angle are different.

3. The filling head according to claim 2, wherein: The first tilt angle ranges from 15 degrees to 25 degrees; The second tilt angle ranges from 15 degrees to 25 degrees; The difference between the first tilt angle and the second tilt angle ranges from 2 degrees to 5 degrees.

4. The filling head according to claim 2, wherein: The filling head also includes an end face perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and the first outlet and the second outlet are located on the end face; The first outlet and the second outlet are located on both sides of the longitudinal axis along a first transverse direction parallel to the end face, and the two liquid outlet directions are located in the same longitudinal plane that is parallel to the longitudinal axis and perpendicular to the end face.

5. The filling head according to claim 4, wherein: The first curved portion and the second curved portion are located on both sides of the longitudinal axis along the first transverse direction, and the central axis of the first curved portion and the central axis of the second curved portion are located in the same longitudinal plane.

6. The filling head according to claim 1, wherein: The two exits include a first exit and a second exit; The channel component also includes: The first and second entrances are located in the entrance area; A first conduit connects the first inlet and the first outlet, and the first conduit has a first lateral distance from the longitudinal axis; A second conduit connects the second inlet and the second outlet, and the second conduit has a second lateral distance from the longitudinal axis; The first lateral distance and the second lateral distance are different.

7. The filling head according to claim 6, wherein: The filling head also includes an end face perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and the first outlet and the second outlet are located on the end face; The first catheter and the second catheter are located on both sides of the longitudinal axis along a first lateral direction parallel to the end face, and the first lateral distance and the second lateral distance are both along the first lateral direction.

8. The filling head according to claim 7, wherein: The first conduit includes a first bend connected to the first outlet and a first connecting portion connected to the first bend; The second conduit includes a second bend connected to the second outlet and a second connecting portion connected to the second bend; The first connecting portion and the second connecting portion extend in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis and are located on both sides of the longitudinal axis in the first transverse direction.

9. The filling head according to claim 8, wherein: The first lateral distance is the distance between the first connecting part and the longitudinal axis along the first lateral direction, and the value range of the first lateral distance is 4mm~10mm; The second lateral distance is the distance between the second connecting part and the longitudinal axis along the first lateral direction, and the value range of the second lateral distance is 4mm~10mm; The difference between the first lateral distance and the second lateral distance ranges from 2mm to 3mm.

10. A filling apparatus comprising the filling head as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. A filling method using the filling head according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

12. The filling method according to claim 11, comprising: A package to be filled is provided, wherein the package has an opening and a sidewall defining the opening, the opening being configured to face two outlets facing the filling head, and the sidewall having an indentation line for sealing the opening after filling; The fluid is filled into the packaging, wherein the fluid enters the opening in two jets through the two outlets; The two jets contact the sidewall on the side of the indentation line away from the opening.

13. The filling method according to claim 12, wherein: The distance between the first contact area and the opening along the longitudinal axis is not equal to the distance between the second contact area and the opening along the longitudinal axis.

14. The filling method of claim 13, wherein the package has a central axis that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the filling head when the fluid is filled into the package.

15. The filling method of claim 13, wherein before filling the fluid into the package, the filling method further comprises: The package is conveyed along the conveying direction to below the filling head, and the conveying direction is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filling head; there are multiple channel assemblies, and the arrangement direction of the multiple channel assemblies is basically parallel to the conveying direction.

16. The filling method according to claim 15, wherein, The packaging includes: A sealing structure is disposed opposite to the opening and includes an end connected to the sidewall, the cross-section of the end gradually decreasing; Wherein, the liquid level of the fluid filled into the packaging is equal to or higher than the junction of the end and the sidewall.

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