Apparatus and associated method for transporting containers

Abstract

The invention relates in particular to a device (10; 64) for transporting containers (12) of a container handling installation. The device (10; 64) has a container holder (14), preferably a pair of gripper arms, for holding a container (12), an electric drive unit (20) in operative connection with the container holder (14) for operating the container holder (14), and a processing device (37). The processing device (37) is configured to monitor an electric operating parameter of the electric drive unit (20) and to determine a state of the container holder (14) depending on the monitored electric operating parameter of the electric drive unit (20).

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] In container handling equipment used for manufacturing, cleaning, filling, sealing, etc., containers can be held and transported within the equipment by means of clamping devices or fixtures.

[0003] Typically, multi-functional kits in the form of clamping star wheels employ mechanical operation for container transport in container handling equipment. This operation, for example, is performed using rollers controlled by curves. Cam control is also feasible. Furthermore, spring elements are usually required to generate a holding force for container locking. These spring elements can be integrated into the clamping device itself, or implemented by separate springs.

[0004] Disadvantages of conventional technologies include the extreme wear of mechanical components mounted on the rotating shaft (rotator). This wear is caused by correspondingly modified operating mechanisms. Furthermore, the force used to generate the holding force by predefined spring elements is designed once and remains unchanged without replacing components. Such changes require complex conversions. Conventional solutions also cannot hold containers of different diameters. Recessed, spherical, conical, and other shaped containers can only be held in multi-set configurations within non-cylindrical regions with significant effort or are simply not held at all. Consequently, molded bottles are clamped too low or intentionally mis-clamped, which has a significant impact on product quality and process safety.

[0005] DE 10 2014 005 321 A1 discloses a transport device for transporting and handling containers, wherein the containers are transported by the transport device in a transport direction from an input point to an output point. The transport device has at least one handling unit that moves in the transport direction for handling one or more of the containers. The transport device has at least one motor by means of which the at least one handling unit is motor-driven to move in a direction deviating from the transport direction.

[0006] The object of this invention is to create an improved container transport technology that preferably enables simple monitoring of transport. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This objective is achieved through the following features. Advantageous improvements are provided in the solutions described below.

[0008] One aspect of this disclosure relates to an apparatus for transporting a container in a container handling device. The apparatus has a container support, preferably a pair of clamping arms, for holding the container. The apparatus also has an electric drive unit (e.g., an actuator) operatively connected to the container support for operating (e.g., opening and / or closing) the container support. The apparatus further has a processing device configured to monitor electrical operating parameters of the electric drive unit, preferably current consumption and / or electrical power. The processing device is also configured to determine at least one state of the container support based on the monitored electrical operating parameters of the electric drive unit.

[0009] Advantageously, this device makes it possible to indirectly determine the status of the container support by monitoring electrical operating parameters, without the need for external or additional sensors for direct monitoring of the support. For example, this can be used to detect the presence of containers in the support or for so-called condition monitoring. This enables a reduction in unplanned machine downtime, thereby improving equipment performance and availability. Furthermore, the electric drive unit allows for very high switching speeds, resulting in even higher equipment performance. With the electric drive unit, the container support can be opened and closed at any location or at any time. This advantage optimizes container transfer. There is no longer a need to compromise with control units that require one-time setups. Each container can be optimally adjusted to its radially optimal transfer point according to its specifications. Moreover, special functions for container transport, such as targeted container removal and allocation to different connection stations, can be easily implemented. The holding force used to hold the container can be easily changed. For example, a freely selectable holding force value can be determined based on weight, size, and diameter. This results in gentler container handling and reduced machine wear. The electric drive unit also enables lower operating costs. For example, compared to pneumatic solutions used to operate container supports, resource consumption is reduced because it eliminates the need for (expensive) compressed air. Wear and tear is also reduced compared to purely mechanical solutions.

[0010] Preferably, the term "processing device" can refer to a controller (e.g., a controller with drive circuitry or a microprocessor and data storage). The "processing device" may, depending on the design, perform control and / or regulation and / or processing tasks. While the term "control" is used herein, it may also suitably include or indicate "regulation" or "feedback control" and / or "processing".

[0011] In one embodiment, the processing device is configured to monitor electrical operating parameters of the electric drive unit during operation of the container support by means of the electric drive unit, and to determine the state of the container support based on the monitored electrical operating parameters of the electric drive unit during operation of the container support. Advantageously, particularly during operation of the container support, the electrical operating parameters may employ, for example, specific characteristic values ​​or specific characteristic curves, thereby allowing the inference of the state of the container support.

[0012] In a further embodiment, the determined condition is the wear condition and / or defect of the container support. Therefore, the monitored operating parameters can be advantageously used for so-called condition monitoring. In this way, for example, defects or wear of the container support can be detected and a corresponding response can be made. That is, for example, in the case of a defect, the device can be stopped to prevent or at least reduce the corresponding damage. For example, in the case of clamp breakage, an immediate emergency stop can be made. Furthermore, monitoring electrical operating parameters allows for a more flexible and faster response compared to monitoring the drive unit of the entire conveyor. For example, wear of the bushings and clamps can also be determined via deviation from the adjustment value. Clamp breakage and bottle damage can then be detected. Maintenance concepts or maintenance instructions for the clamp unit can be created via the deviation values.

[0013] In a further embodiment, the determined state indicates whether the container holder holds or has held a container and / or whether the container holder is idling without holding a container when operated. Therefore, it is advantageous to detect whether a container is in the container holder. In particular, additional sensors are no longer needed to detect the container. The processing device can detect the container, for example, via applied force or current consumption.

[0014] In one embodiment, the processing device is further configured to determine the characteristics of the container based on the electrical operating parameters monitored by the electric drive unit, preferably the container size (e.g., container diameter or container width) and / or weight.

[0015] In a further embodiment, the device also has an output device for outputting information (e.g., optical, acoustic, and / or tactile) to a user. The processing device may also be configured to control the output device to output information indicating a determined state (and optionally indicating determined container characteristics).

[0016] In a further embodiment, the processing device is also configured to operate the electric drive unit according to a determined state (optionally, a determined container characteristic).

[0017] In one implementation variation, the holding force, opening time, closing time, and / or adjustment stroke of the container support can be variably adjusted by means of an electric drive unit, preferably automatically adjusted by means of a processing device based on monitored electrical operating parameters.

[0018] In a further embodiment, the processing device is configured to operate the electrically driven unit in different modes. Preferably, the different modes may differ at least partially in terms of the holding force of the container support, opening time, closing time, and / or adjustment stroke. Alternatively or additionally, the different modes are configured to hold different containers, wherein these different containers differ in terms of container weight, container size, container shape, container diameter, and / or container material. The different modes can advantageously replace traditionally necessary and costly conversions, and thus enable improved overall performance and facilitate flexible operation. For example, the different modes can advantageously enable predetermined functions of container transport, such as transporting different containers, selectively removing specific containers, and / or allocating containers to different connection stations.

[0019] In a further embodiment, the device also includes another container support, preferably another pair of clamping arms, wherein the container support and the other container support are arranged overlapping each other (e.g., double-layered) for simultaneously holding the container. Optionally, the device may have another electrically driven unit (e.g., actuator) operatively connected to the other container support for operating (e.g., opening and / or closing) the other container support. Alternatively, the other container support may be operated, for example, by means of the electrically driven unit. Preferably, the processing device may also be configured to monitor, preferably, the electrical operating parameters of the other electrically driven unit, preferably current consumption and / or electrical power, during operation of the other container support, and to determine the state of the other container support based on the monitored electrical operating parameters of the other electrically driven unit. Advantageously, two independently driven container supports can also be used to securely clamp and hold the shaped container (contour container).

[0020] In one embodiment, the processing device is further configured to determine the state of the container support and / or the state of another container support based on a comparison between the electrical operating parameters monitored by the electric drive unit and the electrical operating parameters monitored by another electric drive unit.

[0021] In a further embodiment, the device is implemented as (e.g., concentric or linear) a conveyor, preferably a rotatable clamping star wheel, and preferably has a slip ring transformer electrically connected to an electric drive unit. The processing device may be configured to stop the conveyor (e.g., immediately) when a determined state of the container support indicates a defect in the container support or (e.g., due to a determined wear condition) an impending defect.

[0022] In a further embodiment, the processing device is also configured to operate the conveyor according to the determined state of the container support, and / or to operate the electric drive unit according to the preferred current power of the conveyor, preferably for adjusting the holding force, opening time, closing time, and / or adjusting the stroke of the container support according to the power of the conveyor. Thus, for example, the transfer and holding of the container can be advantageously optimized according to the container specifications. Generally, this allows for fully flexible operation of the container support.

[0023] Preferably, the container handling equipment can be implemented as a container for manufacturing, cleaning, inspecting, filling, sealing, labeling, printing and / or packaging liquid media, preferably beverages or liquid foods.

[0024] For example, containers can be implemented as bottles, cans, boxes, cartons, flasks, etc.

[0025] Preferably, the electric drive unit and another electric drive unit can operate independently of each other. Therefore, it is advantageous to enable independent movement of the container support, which can be used, for example, for the safe and low-wear transport of contoured containers.

[0026] Preferably, an operative connection is formed between one electric drive unit and a container support, and another electric drive unit is operatively connected to another container support. Neither the electric drive unit nor the other electric drive unit forms an elastic spring element. Therefore, it is advantageous to achieve a simple and hygienic implementation, as the spring element can be omitted.

[0027] Preferably, the device further comprises a carrier (e.g., a clamp carrier) that is preferably substantially block-shaped and / or rectangular, capable of movably, preferably slidably, or pivotally supporting a container support and / or another container support, particularly preferably at opposite end regions of the carrier (e.g., at the upper and lower end regions of the carrier). Preferably, the carrier is oriented upright.

[0028] Particularly preferably, the electric drive unit and / or another electric drive unit is supported by a carrier, preferably on the back side of the carrier, opposite to the front side of the carrier, which faces the container that can be held by a container support and / or another container support. Advantageously, the electric drive unit and / or another electric drive unit can be arranged on the back side of the carrier so as to protect the container from container fragments in the event of container breakage caused by the carrier.

[0029] Preferably, the container support and another container support are movable independently of each other, and preferably can slide or pivot (e.g., coaxial).

[0030] Preferably, the container support and another container support are designed to be structurally identical and / or substantially mirror-symmetrical with respect to the horizontal plane.

[0031] For example, an electric drive unit and another electric drive unit may be arranged to overlap vertically, be designed to be structurally identical, substantially mirror-symmetrical with respect to the horizontal plane, and / or be supported by a carrier of the device.

[0032] Preferably, the electric drive unit and / or another electric drive unit may have an output element that can slide.

[0033] Particularly preferably, the linear feed and return motion of the output element of the electric drive unit can be converted into the pivoting motion of the container support via a crank joint. Alternatively or additionally, the linear feed and return motion of the output element of another electric drive unit can be converted into the pivoting motion of another container support via a crank joint.

[0034] It is feasible that the output element of the electric drive unit and / or the transmission element connected to the output element can extend slidably through the carrier of the device. Alternatively or additionally, the output element of another electric drive unit and / or the transmission element connected to the output element can extend slidably through the carrier of the device.

[0035] Preferably, the container support implemented as a pair of clamping arms has two clamping arms, preferably connected to each other, for abutting the container. These two clamping arms are preferably movable in opposite directions, preferably pivotable, or slidable. Alternatively or additionally, another container support implemented as another pair of clamping arms has two other clamping arms, preferably connected to each other, for abutting the container. These two other clamping arms are preferably movable in opposite directions (and, for example, independently of the two clamping arms), preferably pivotable, or slidable (e.g., coaxially pivotable with the two clamping arms).

[0036] Preferably, the device further comprises two pivot arms arranged in a V-shape, which are reciprocatingly sliding and / or pivotally mounted at each pivot arm of the pivot arm pair in response to mechanical input from an electric drive unit. Alternatively or additionally, the device further comprises two other pivot arms arranged in a V-shape, which are reciprocatingly sliding and / or pivotally mounted at each pivot arm of the other pivot arm pair in response to mechanical input from another electric drive unit.

[0037] Preferably, the pivot arm is pivotally (preferably coaxially) mounted at a slidable transmission element, which is slidably mounted in the carrier of the device and is rod-shaped and / or slidable from the electric drive unit. Alternatively or additionally, two other pivot arms are pivotally (preferably coaxially) mounted at another slidable transmission element, which is slidably mounted in the carrier of the device and is rod-shaped and / or slidable from another electric drive unit.

[0038] Preferably, the output element of the electric drive unit can be (e.g., directly) connected to the transmission element, for example, fixed to each other or integrally formed with each other. Alternatively or additionally, the output element of another electric drive unit can be (e.g., directly) connected to another transmission element, for example, fixed to each other or integrally formed with each other.

[0039] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a method for operating an apparatus (e.g., as disclosed herein) for handling containers for transport containers. The method involves operating a container support, preferably a pair of clamping arms, by means of an electrically driven unit for holding the container. The method further involves monitoring, preferably, electrical operating parameters of the electrically driven unit during operation by means of a processing device, including current consumption and / or electrical power. The method also involves determining the state (at least one) of the container support based on the monitoring of the electrical operating parameters of the electrically driven unit by means of the processing device. The same advantages as those already described with reference to the apparatus can be advantageously achieved using this method.

[0040] In a further embodiment, the method further includes outputting the determined state via an output device. Alternatively or additionally, the method further includes stopping (e.g., emergency stop) the device via a processing device when the determined state indicates a defect or wear condition of the container support, requiring maintenance. Alternatively or additionally, the method further includes operating the device according to the state determined via the processing device. Alternatively or additionally, the method further includes adjusting the holding force, opening time, closing time, and / or adjusting the stroke of the container support via the processing device based on monitored electrical operating parameters and / or the power of the device designed as a conveyor. Alternatively or additionally, the method further includes determining the characteristics of the container, preferably its size (e.g., container diameter or container width), and / or weight, based on monitoring the electrical operating parameters of the electric drive unit via the processing device.

[0041] In a further embodiment, the determined state is the wear condition and / or defects of the container support. Alternatively or additionally, the determined state may indicate whether the container support is holding or has held a container, and / or whether the container support is idling (e.g., empty clamping movement) without holding a container when operated.

[0042] The preferred embodiments and features described above can be combined with each other arbitrarily. Attached Figure Description

[0043] Further details and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherein:

[0044] Figure 1 A perspective view of an apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0045] Figure 2 Showing Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary device;

[0046] Figure 3 Showing Figure 1 Top view of an exemplary device;

[0047] Figure 4 A perspective view of an apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0048] Figure 5 Showing Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary device; and

[0049] Figure 6 Showing Figure 4 A bottom view of an exemplary device.

[0050] The embodiments shown in the figures are at least partially identical, such that similar or identical parts are labeled with the same reference numerals, and for the purpose of explanation, reference is also made to the description of other embodiments or figures to avoid repetition. Detailed Implementation

[0051] Figures 1 to 3 The device 10 for transporting container 12 is shown in different views. Device 10 can hold or clamp container 12 (only when...). Figure 2 (Illustrated schematically). Container 12 may have a container body that has a different outer perimeter along its length or height. For example, container 12 may be implemented as a so-called contour container. It is also possible for the container body of container 12 to have other shapes, such as cylindrical.

[0052] The device 10 has a container support 14 for holding the container 12. The device 10 also has an electric drive unit 20 and a processing device 37. Optionally, the device 10 may also have another container support 16, another electric drive unit 22 and / or a carrier 18.

[0053] For example, device 10 is implemented as a clamping device, wherein container support 14 is preferably implemented as a pair of clamping arms. However, it is feasible for the container support 14 to have a different structure as long as the container support 14 can hold and / or release the container 12 by means of the operation of the electric drive unit 20.

[0054] Particularly preferably, the device 10 is implemented as a double-clamp device or a double-layer clamp device. In a double-clamp device, the two container supports 14 and 16 may each be implemented as a pair of clamping arms. However, it is also possible for the device 10 to have another pair of clamping arms (not shown), or for example, only a pair of clamping arms or container supports 14 with different constructions.

[0055] Even though the embodiment with two container supports 14, 16 has been specifically explained below, it should be noted that the embodiment with respect to container support 14 is also applicable to embodiments that do not include the other container support 16. This also applies to embodiments in which only the electric drive unit 20 exists but the other electric drive unit 22 does not.

[0056] Container support 14 may have two clamping arms 24, 26. Another container support 16 may have two additional clamping arms 28, 30. Clamping arms 24 and 26 (or 28 and 30) may be formed individually, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown in the diagram, clamping arms 24 and 26 (or 28 and 30) can be integrally formed with each other. It is also possible to include more clamping arms.

[0057] Preferably, the other container support 16 may be implemented as having substantially the same structure and / or function as the container support 14. Preferably, the container support 14 and the other container support 16 are designed to be substantially mirror-symmetrical with respect to the intermediate longitudinal plane of the device 10 and with respect to the horizontal plane (in the installed state). The intermediate longitudinal plane divides the device 10 into half its height and may be, for example, parallel to the longitudinal axis or alignment plane of the container supports 14, 16.

[0058] As shown in the figure, container support 14 may be pivotally mounted. Another container support 16 may also be pivotally mounted. The pivoting bearing is preferably located at one end of container support 14 or 16 opposite to container 12, or at the free end of container support 14 or 16. Container supports 14 and 16 may preferably be coaxially pivotable with each other, or may be pivotable about a common pivot axis. However, it is also possible for container supports 14 and / or 16 to be slidably mounted.

[0059] Specifically, clamping arms 24 and 26 are preferably movable in opposite directions, preferably pivotable (as shown) or sliding. The other clamping arms 28 and 30 are preferably movable in opposite directions, preferably pivotable (as shown) or sliding. To hold container 12, clamping arms 24 and 26 can move relative to each other (e.g., pivot or slide) until they abut against container 12. The other clamping arms 28 and 30 can move relative to each other (e.g., pivot or slide) until they abut against container 12. To release container 12, clamping arms 24 and 26 can move relative to each other (e.g., turn open or slide open). The other clamping arms 28 and 30 can move relative to each other (e.g., turn open or slide open).

[0060] Container supports 14 and 16 can be arranged to overlap vertically to simultaneously hold the same container 12. Container supports 14 and 16 can, for example, be arranged to be perpendicularly offset from each other relative to the height axis of the container 12 or the device 10. For example, as... Figures 1 to 3 As shown, container support 14 can be arranged above another container support 16, or vice versa.

[0061] Container support 14 holds container 12 in the first outer periphery or sheath portion. Another container support 16 holds container 12 in the second outer periphery or sheath portion. The first and second outer peripheries are preferably circumferential or closed. These outer peripheries are arranged offset from each other relative to the height axis of container 12. For example, the first outer periphery is arranged above the second outer periphery, or vice versa.

[0062] It is feasible for the first and second outer peripheral portions to differ from each other in shape and / or size or length. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the first and second outer peripheral portions have the same shape, i.e., circular relative to the container cross-section or truncated cone relative to the container's height axis. The first and second outer peripheral portions differ in size. The first outer peripheral portion has a smaller circumference and diameter than the second outer peripheral portion.

[0063] Container 12 can be held, respectively, at the front or facing portion of container support 14 (and optionally another container support 16). Specifically, container 12 can be held between the free ends of clamping arms 24, 26, and, if necessary, between the free ends of another clamping arm 28, 30. Clamping arms 24, 26 and, if necessary, another clamping arm 28, 30 can clamp container 12 at their free ends. Clamping arms 24, 26 and, if necessary, another clamping arm 28, 30 can clamp container 12 between their free ends by applying a holding force. The holding force of container support 14 can be caused by electric drive unit 20. The holding force of another container support 16 can be caused by another electric drive unit 22 or electric drive unit 20.

[0064] The two container supports 14, 16 are movable independently or disconnected from each other, preferably pivotable or sliding. Container support 14 can move (e.g., pivot or slide) without requiring the other container support 16 to move with it, and vice versa. Pivoting or sliding motion of container support 14 to container 12 may, for example, not affect pivoting or sliding motion of the other container support 16 to container 12, and vice versa. For example, when container support 14 has abutted container 12, pivoting or sliding motion of the other container support 16 may continue, and vice versa (e.g., depending on the shape and / or size of the container's periphery). For example, container supports 14, 16, preferably each under the action of one of the electric drive units 20 and 22, can start simultaneously and / or terminate sequentially (e.g., each at the moment of abutment against container 12). During the pivoting motion of the equipment, the corresponding clamping arms 24, 26 or 28, 30 can pivot relative to each other, while during the sliding motion of the equipment, the corresponding clamping arms 24, 26 or 28, 30 can slide relative to each other.

[0065] The release movement of another container support 16 away from container 12 (e.g., a release pivoting movement or a release sliding movement) preferably does not affect the release pivoting movement of container support 14 away from container 12, and vice versa. The release movement of container support 14 may, for example, begin before the release movement of the other container support 16, and vice versa (e.g., depending on the shape and / or size of the outer periphery of container 12). For example, preferably, container supports 14 and 16 can simultaneously terminate their release movements under the action of operating container supports 14 and 16 by means of electric drive units 20, 22. In the release pivoting movement, the corresponding clamping arms 24, 26 or 28, 30 may rotate away from each other, while in the release sliding movement, the corresponding clamping arms 24, 26 or 28, 30 may slide away from each other.

[0066] Container supports 14 and 16 may each have a longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axes may extend substantially parallel to each other. The longitudinal axes may extend substantially perpendicular to the height axis of device 10 or container 12. In the installed state, the longitudinal axes may extend substantially parallel to the horizontal plane.

[0067] Container support 14 may be movably, preferably pivotally, or slidably mounted on carrier 18. Another container support 16 may be movably, preferably pivotally, or slidably mounted on carrier 18. Preferably, carrier 18 is implemented as a clamp carrier.

[0068] Container supports 14 and 16 may be mounted on the opposite side of the carrier 18. The carrier 18 may be arranged between the container supports 14 and 16, preferably relative to the high axis of the device 10. The carrier 18 may support the container support 14 and, if necessary, another container support 16. The carrier 18 is preferably implemented as a block. The carrier 18 preferably extends longitudinally parallel to the high axis of the container 12 or the device 10.

[0069] The container support 14 can be pivotally mounted, for example, by means of a preferred elongated pivot pin 32 of the carrier 18. Specifically, the clamping arms 24, 26 may each have a through hole at opposite ends of each free end of the respective clamping arms 24, 26. The pivot pin 32 extends through the through hole. It is possible that a sliding bushing is arranged between the pivot pin 32 and the through hole.

[0070] Pivot 32 may extend coaxially with the pivot axis of container support 14 or clamping arms 24, 26. Pivot 32 may extend parallel to the height axis of device 10 or container 12. For example, pivot 32 may be arranged on the top of carrier 18.

[0071] An alternative container support 16 can also be pivotally mounted via a preferred elongated pivot pin 34 of the carrier 18. Specifically, another clamping arm 28, 30 may, for example, have a through hole at the opposite end of each free end of the respective clamping arm 28, 30. The pivot pin 34 extends through the through hole. Alternatively, a sliding bushing may be arranged between the pivot pin 34 and the through hole.

[0072] Pivot 32 may extend coaxially with the pivot axis of another container support 16 or clamp arms 28, 30. Pivot 34 may extend parallel to the high axis of device 10 or container 12. For example, pivot 34 may be located at the bottom of carrier 18.

[0073] Pivot pins 32 and 34 can be arranged on the opposite side of the carrier 18.

[0074] Clamping arms 24 and 26 can be stacked on pivot pin 32. Another clamping arm 28 and 30 can be stacked on pivot pin 34. Clamping arms 24 and 26 can be axially fixed to pivot pin 32. Another clamping arm 28 and 30 can be axially fixed to pivot pin 34. For example, this axial fixing can be achieved by means of a screw head screwed into a (e.g., central) hole in pivot pin 32 or 34, preferably coaxial with the pivot axis of container support 14 or 16.

[0075] Adjacent to the pivotable bearing of the carrier 18, the container support 14 can be reinforced, and if necessary, another container support 16 can be reinforced. Specifically, the material thickness of the clamping arms 24, 26, or 28, 30 may be increased adjacent to the pivotable bearing. The clamping arms 24, 26, or 28, 30 may, for example, have reinforcing ribs 36 adjacent to the pivotable bearing. The reinforcing ribs 36 may, for example, be implemented as wall elements at the top and / or bottom of the clamping arms 24, 26, and 28, 30. The wall elements may be annular or peripheral structures. The reinforcing ribs 36 may be arranged in portions of the clamping arms 24, 26, or 28, 30 opposite to the free ends of the clamping arms 24, 26, or 28, 30. The reinforcing ribs 36 may taper toward the free ends of the clamping arms 24, 26, 28, 30.

[0076] It is feasible, for example, that the clamping arms 24 and 26, and if necessary 28 and 30, have opposing stops in their central portions (relative to their respective longitudinal axes). At these stops, the clamping arms 24 and 26, and if necessary 28 and 30, abut against each other in the closed position when they are not holding the container 12.

[0077] The container support 14 and, if necessary, 16 can be moved or operated by the electric drive unit 20 and, if necessary, 22. The electric drive units 20 and 22 can drive the movement of the container support 14 and 16.

[0078] Specifically, the electric drive unit 20 is operatively connected to the container support 14 for operating, for example, opening and / or closing the container support 14. Another electric drive unit 22 may be operatively connected to another container support 16 for operating, for example, opening and / or closing the other container support 16. However, it is also possible for both container supports 14, 16 to be operated by the electric drive unit 20, and for the other electric drive unit 22 to be absent. As already described, it is also possible for the other container support 16 to be absent, in which case the other electric drive unit 22 will also be absent.

[0079] Preferably, container support 14 can be pivoted by electric drive unit 20. Another container support 16 can be pivoted by another electric drive unit 22. Particularly preferably, container support 14 or 16 can be driven such that it pivots to close to hold or hold container 12, and pivots to open to release the held container 12. However, as illustrated, it is also possible for container support 14 and, if necessary, 16 to be slidable rather than pivotable. Correspondingly, electric drive units 20, 22 can then drive container support 14, 16 such that these container supports slide.

[0080] Electric drive unit 20 may have an output element 20.1. Another electric drive unit 22 may have another output element 22.1. Output element 20.1 is movable container support 14. Another output element 22.1 is movable another container support 16. Preferably, output elements 20.1 and 22.1 are capable of linear movement or sliding.

[0081] The electric drive unit 20 and, if necessary, 22 can be implemented as an electric drive unit, an electromagnetic drive unit, an electric motor, or a piezoelectric (e.g., linear) drive unit. The push rod can be reciprocated and accommodated within the linear drive unit. The push rod can each be an output element 20.1 of drive unit 20 and an output element 22.1 of drive unit 22. Providing current to the respective electric drive units 20, 22 can cause the push rod to move in a first direction, for example, for extension, and / or in a second direction opposite to the first direction, for example, for retraction.

[0082] The electric drive unit 20 and, if necessary, 22 may preferably have a maximum defined stroke for the output element 20.1 or 22.1, so as to enable, for example, the gripping of the largest feasible container diameter.

[0083] The electric drive units 20 and 22 are preferably capable of being driven independently of each other.

[0084] It is feasible that, for example, the holding force, opening time, closing time, and / or adjustment stroke of container support 14 can be variably adjusted by means of electric drive unit 20, and if necessary, the holding force, opening time, closing time, and / or adjustment stroke of another container support 16 can be variably adjusted by means of another electric drive unit 22. Variable adjustment can preferably be performed during operation and / or, for example, without the need for switching.

[0085] To operate the electric drive unit 20 and, if necessary, 22, a processing device 37 may be included (only when...). Figure 1 and Figure 2 (Illustrated schematically).

[0086] The processing device 37 can be electrically connected to the electric drive unit 20 and, if necessary, 22 for operating the electric drive unit 20 and, if necessary, 22. Particularly preferably, the electrical connection between the processing device 37 and the electric drive unit 20 is implemented independently of the electrical connection between the processing device 37 and another electric drive unit 22.

[0087] The processing devices 37 are preferably connected together to several drive units 20, 22 of several devices 10 for operating transport devices (e.g., clamp star wheels).

[0088] The processing device 37 can preferably operate the electric drive unit 20 and / or another electric drive unit 22 in different modes. Switching between modes is possible during operation or pause. Mode switching is feasible without requiring the conversion device 10 or a transport device including the device 10.

[0089] For example, the differences between the different modes may be that the holding force of the container support 14 and, if necessary, 16 caused by the electric drive unit 20 and, if necessary, 22, the closing time of the container support 14 and, if necessary, 16 caused by the electric drive unit 20 and, if necessary, 22, the opening time of the container support 14 and, if necessary, 16 caused by the electric drive unit 20 and, if necessary, 22, and / or the adjustment stroke of the container support 14 and, if necessary, 16 caused by the electric drive unit 20 and, if necessary, 22, are at least partially different in the different modes.

[0090] For example, different modes can be configured and used to hold different containers 12. For example, different modes can make it possible for containers 12 with different container weights, different container sizes, different container shapes, different container diameters and / or different container materials to be safely held, held and released by the device 10. It is also possible to use different modes to drive or operate equipment or transport devices including the device 10 in different ways.

[0091] The electric drive units 20 and 22 are preferably designed to be structurally identical and / or functionally identical. Preferably, electric drive unit 20 and another electric drive unit 22 are designed to be substantially mirror-symmetrical with respect to the intermediate longitudinal plane of device 10 and with respect to the horizontal plane (in the installed state).

[0092] The electric drive units 20 and 22 may be arranged in an overlapping manner. The electric drive unit 20 and, if necessary, 22 may be supported on the carrier 18. Preferably, the electric drive unit 20 and, if necessary, 22 are protectively arranged on the back side of the carrier 18 opposite to the container 12.

[0093] Alternatively, the electric drive unit 20 and, if necessary, 22 can be directly connected to or functionally connected to the container support 14 and, if necessary, 16. Alternatively, the electric drive unit 20 and, if necessary, 22 can be connected to or functionally connected to the container support 14 and, if necessary, 16, for example, by means of connecting devices 38 and, if necessary, 39. Connecting device 38 can drively connect the electric drive unit 20 to the container support 14. Another connecting device 39 can drively connect the electric drive unit 20 or another electric drive unit 22 (as shown) to another container support 16.

[0094] Connecting devices 38 and 39 may be arranged between container support 14 and another container support 16, preferably relative to the high axis of device 10. Specifically, another connecting device 39 may be arranged at least partially on the top of another container support 16. Connecting device 38 may be arranged at least partially on the bottom of container support 14. The respective longitudinal extension directions of connecting devices 38 and 39 may extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axes of container supports 14 and 16.

[0095] The connecting device 38 and, if necessary, 39 may be supported by the carrier 18. The connecting device 38 and, if necessary, 39 may extend at least partially through the carrier 18, preferably in a through hole extending from the back or the side of the carrier 18 away from the container 12 to the front or the side of the carrier 18 facing the container 12.

[0096] The connecting devices 38 and 39 can preferably be disconnected from each other, so that they can move independently of each other. Connecting device 38 can move without moving the other connecting device 39, and vice versa.

[0097] Connecting device 38 may be connected to clamping arms 24, 26 in the portion between the free end and (e.g., pivoting) bearing, preferably in the central portion of clamping arms 24, 26 relative to the respective longitudinal axis. Another connecting device 39 may be connected to another clamping arm 28, 30 in the portion between the free end and (e.g., pivoting) bearing, preferably in the central portion of another clamping arm 28, 30 relative to the respective longitudinal axis.

[0098] The connecting device 38 may preferably have a transmission element 40, a connecting element 42, and two pivoting arms 44, 46. It is possible that elements 40, 42, 44, 46 are at least partially integrated with each other. Another connecting device 39 may be constructed like connecting device 38, having a transmission element 50, a connecting element 52, and two pivoting arms 54, 56, and working in conjunction with them. Therefore, the following detailed implementation of connecting device 38 is applicable by analogy to the other connecting device 39.

[0099] The transmission element 40 can be slidably mounted in the carrier 18, preferably in a sliding bushing. The transmission element 40 can be elongated, preferably rod-shaped. The transmission element 40 can slide from the output element 20.1, preferably parallel to the longitudinal axis of the container support 14. The transmission element 40 can preferably be mounted on the end side of the output element 20.1. The transmission element 40 can support the connecting element 42, preferably at the end opposite to the output element 20.1.

[0100] The connecting element 42 can be mounted on the transmission element 40, preferably on its end face. For example, the connecting element 42 can be mounted on the transmission element 40 by means of screws. If the transmission element 40 slides, the connecting element 42 can slide accordingly. The connecting element 42 can connect the transmission element 40 to the pivot arms 44, 46.

[0101] The pivot arm 44 can connect the clamping arm 24 to the connecting element 42. The pivot arm 44 can be pivotally connected to the connecting element 42 at one end, for example by means of a bolt or pivot pin. The pivot arm 44 can be pivotally connected to the clamping arm 24 at the opposite end, for example by means of a bolt or pivot pin.

[0102] The pivot arm 46 can connect the clamping arm 26 to the connecting element 42. The pivot arm 46 can be pivotally connected to the connecting element 42 at one end, for example by means of a bolt or pivot pin. The pivot arm 46 can be pivotally connected to the clamping arm 26 at the opposite end, for example by means of a bolt or pivot pin.

[0103] The pivot arms 44, 46 are preferably arranged in a V-shape and / or overlapping vertically (e.g., relative to the high axis of device 10). The pivot arms 44, 46 are preferably capable of coaxial pivoting relative to the connecting element 42. However, parallel pivot axes for the pivot arms 44, 46 relative to the connecting element 42 are also possible, for example. The pivot arms 44, 46 may preferably be arranged between the connecting element 42 or the transmission element 40 and the container support 14 relative to the high axis of device 10.

[0104] Mechanical input via the output element 20.1 of the electric drive unit 20 can cause the transmission element 40 to slide toward or away from the container 12. Sliding of the transmission element 40 toward or away from the container 12 can cause the connecting element 42 to slide toward or away from the container 12. Sliding of the connecting element 42 toward or away from the container 12 can cause the ends of the pivoting arms 44, 46, which are pivotally connected to the connecting element 42, to slide toward or away from the container 12. Sliding of the ends of the pivoting arms 44, 46, which are pivotally connected to the connecting element 42, can cause the pivoting arms 44, 46 to pivot at these ends, since the pivoting arms 44, 46 are supported on the clamping arms 24, 26. The pivoting of the pivoting arms 44, 46 causes the clamping arms 24, 26 to pivot, for example, to pivot or open for releasing the container 12, or to pivot or close for gripping the container 12.

[0105] The transmission element 40, the connecting element 42, the pivot arms 44 and 46, and the clamping arms 24 and 26 can preferably be used together to form a crank or a crank joint.

[0106] Preferably, the container support 14 and, if necessary, 16, the electric drive unit 20 and, if necessary, 22, and the connecting device 38 and, if necessary, 39 do not have elastic spring elements. However, it is also possible in principle, for example, for the electric drive unit 20 and, if necessary, 22, to have elastic spring elements, so that the output elements 20.1, 22.1 are pre-tensioned, for example, in the direction toward the open or closed position.

[0107] The device 10 may have a fixing device 62. The fixing device 62 may be designed to secure the device 10 to a transport device, such as a transport conveyor belt, for example, by means of screws. The fixing device 62 may have at least one positioning element. This positioning element can correctly position the device 10 at the transport device when fixed thereto. For example, the positioning element may be implemented as a positioning pin. The fixing device 62 may be fixed to a carrier 18, for example, on the back, top, and / or bottom of the carrier 18.

[0108] Processing device 37 can be connected to output device 70 (only when...) Figure 1 and Figure 2 (Illustrated schematically). The output device 70 may be, for example, a visual output device, an acoustic output device, and / or a tactile output device. Preferably, the output device 70 has, for example, a touch-sensitive display, an indicator light, and / or a speaker.

[0109] Figures 4 to 6 Different views of the apparatus 64 for transporting container 12 using multiple devices 10 are shown. For better overview, only devices 10, etc., are labeled with reference numerals.

[0110] The device 64 may preferably be included in a container handling apparatus for transporting the container 12. For example, the container handling apparatus may manufacture, clean, inspect, fill, seal, label, print, and / or package the container 12. It is possible that the device 64 is arranged, for example, as an inlet star wheel or an outlet star wheel of the container handling apparatus.

[0111] Device 64 is preferably implemented as a rotatable transport conveyor belt. Device 10 is preferably arranged uniformly around the circumference of device 64. Device 64 can be implemented as a so-called clamping star wheel. Due to the exemplary double-layer nature of device 10, the clamping star wheel can be implemented as a double-layer clamping star wheel. However, it is also possible for device 64 to be implemented as, for example, a linear conveyor or a single-layer clamping star wheel.

[0112] The device 64 may have a drive unit 66 and a slip ring transformer 68.

[0113] The drive unit 66 enables the movable device 64, and consequently the movable device 10. Preferably, the drive unit 66 allows the device 64 and consequently the device 10 to rotate about a central vertical axis of the device 64. Depending on the configuration, the drive unit 66 may be arranged, for example, at the top or bottom of the device 64.

[0114] The slip ring transformer 68 can be connected to both the electric drive unit 20 and another electric drive unit 22. The slip ring transformer 68 may, for example, have an electrical interface that enables electrical connection between the rotating portion and the fixed portion of the slip ring transformer 68. For example, the housing of the slip ring transformer 68 may be fixed. The portions of the slip ring transformer 68 arranged within the housing may be rotatably mounted sequentially and rotate together with the rotating portion of the device 64 during operation.

[0115] According to the implementation, a processing device 37 may be arranged in the connection between the slip ring transformer 68 and the electric drive units 20, 22. Alternatively, the processing device 37 may not be connected or intervened between the slip ring transformer 68 and the electric drive units 20, 22, but may be located, for example, upstream of the slip ring transformer 68.

[0116] A feature of this disclosure is that the processing device 37 monitors at least one electrical operating parameter of the electric drive unit 20, and optionally monitors the electrical operating parameters of another electric drive unit 22 (if any). The electrical operating parameters may be, for example, the current consumption of the electric drive unit 20 and optionally the current consumption of the other electric drive unit 22, or the electrical power of the electric drive unit 20 and optionally the electrical power of the other electric drive unit 22.

[0117] Based on the monitored electrical operating parameters, the processing device 37 determines the condition of container support 14, and, if necessary, the condition of another container support 16. The processing device 37 may determine, for example, the wear condition and / or defects of container support 14 and, if necessary, another container support 16. Alternatively, the determined condition may indicate whether container support 14 and, if necessary, another container support 16 even hold or successfully hold container 12 (signal "Container / Bottle Here"), or whether container support 14 and, if necessary, another container support 16 merely idle during operation without holding container 12.

[0118] State determination can be performed, for example, by comparing the monitored electrical operating parameters with at least one predetermined limit value and / or at least one predetermined range of values ​​for the electrical operating parameters. The at least one limit value and / or the at least one range of values ​​can be stored in the processing device 37. The at least one limit value and / or the at least one range of values ​​can be determined, for example, empirically and through testing in the field and / or simulated, and are indicative or characteristic of certain states for container support 14 and, if necessary, another container support 16. The at least one limit value and / or the at least one range of values ​​may depend on the design of device 10 or 64 and the implementation of container 12. The comparison can involve a comparison of individual values ​​of the monitored electrical operating parameters and / or curves of the monitored electrical operating parameters.

[0119] Therefore, a defective container support, for example, may cause at least partially undefined current consumption in the electric drive unit, or no current consumption at all. For example, increased wear can be detected by higher-than-normal current consumption, and increases, for example, with the number of operations of container support 14 and, if necessary, another container support 16.

[0120] For example, the characteristic current consumption curve of the container can be used to detect whether the container 12 has been held and held by the container support 14 and, if necessary, another container support 16, or whether the container support 14 and, if necessary, another container support 16 are simply idling without holding the container.

[0121] Alternatively, the processing device 37 can determine the characteristics of the container 12 based on the monitored electrical operating parameters. For example, the timing of when the container support 14 and, if necessary, 16 abut against the container 12 can be determined based on the current consumption. This allows the derivation of, for example, the container diameter or width of the container 12. Similarly, the weight or gravimetric force of the container 12 can be inferred from the current consumption of the container support 14 and, if necessary, 16 used to maintain contact with the container 12, and thus, for example, whether the container 12 is properly filled or empty.

[0122] Furthermore, in an embodiment with two electric drive units 20, 22 having two container supports 14, 16, it is feasible to compare the electrical operating parameters of the two electric drive units 20, 22 with each other in order to determine the state of the container supports 14, 16.

[0123] The processing device 37 can operate the devices 10 or 64 according to the determined state and / or the monitored electrical operating parameters. For example, if the processing device 37 determines that there is a defect or an impending defect in the container support 14 and, if necessary, 16, the processing device 37 can instruct an emergency stop. The processing device 37 can also perform self-adjusting control or regulation of the operation of the electric drive unit 20 and, if necessary, 22. For example, the holding force, opening time, closing time, and / or adjustment stroke of the container support 14 and, if necessary, 16 can be automatically adjusted and thus optimized during operation.

[0124] Alternatively, the power (e.g., container output per unit time) of the operating adjustment device 64 can be adjusted for the operation of the electric drive unit 20 and, if necessary, 22. Thus, for example, at low power (e.g., 10,000 containers per hour), a lower force is generated than at high power (e.g., 60,000 containers per hour). Therefore, at low power, only a smaller holding force is required to hold the container 12 in the container holder 14 and, if necessary, 16. For example, the processing device 37 can adjust the electrical power of the drive unit 20 and, if necessary, 22 based on the current power of the device 64.

[0125] Alternatively, the processing device 37 may send information about the determined state of the container support 14 and, if necessary, 16, and / or the determined characteristics of the container 12 to the output device 70 in order to output this information to the user. Thus, warnings or maintenance instructions may also be output, for example, upon detection of defects or specific wear.

[0126] This invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Instead, many variations and modifications are possible, and these variations and modifications also utilize the ideas of this invention and are therefore within the scope of protection.

[0127] List of icon numbers

[0128] 10 devices

[0129] 12 containers

[0130] 14 Container support

[0131] 16 Another container support

[0132] 18 carriers

[0133] 20 electric drive units

[0134] 20.1 Output Components

[0135] 22 Another electric drive unit

[0136] 22.1 Output Components

[0137] 24 clamp arms

[0138] 26 clamp arms

[0139] 28 Another clamping arm

[0140] 30 Another clamping arm

[0141] 32 Pivot pin

[0142] 34 Pivot pin

[0143] 36 Reinforcing Ribs

[0144] 37 Processing device

[0145] 38 Connecting device

[0146] 39 Another connecting device

[0147] 40 Transmission Components

[0148] 42 Connecting elements

[0149] 44 Pivot Arm

[0150] 46 Pivot Arm

[0151] 50 Transmission Components

[0152] 52 Connecting elements

[0153] 54 Pivot Arm

[0154] 56 Pivot Arm

[0155] 62 Fixing device

[0156] 64 devices

[0157] 66 drive units

[0158] 68 Slip Ring Transformer

[0159] 70 Output device

Claims

1. An apparatus for transporting a container (12) in a container handling device, the apparatus comprising: Container support (14) for holding container (12); An electric drive unit (20), operatively connected to the container support (14), is used to operate the container support (14); and Processing device (37), the processing device being configured to: - Monitor the electrical operating parameters of the electric drive unit (20); and - The state of the container support (14) is determined based on the electrical operating parameters monitored by the electric drive unit (20). in: The determined condition is the wear condition and / or defects of the container support (14); and / or The determined status indicates whether the container support (14) is idling without holding the container (12) when it is being operated.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The processing device (37) is configured as follows: - During operation of the container support (14) using the electric drive unit (20), the electrical operating parameters of the electric drive unit (20) are monitored; and - The state of the container support (14) is determined based on the electrical operating parameters monitored by the electric drive unit (20) during operation of the container support (14).

3. The apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein... The determined status indication: - Whether the container holder (14) holds or has held the container (12).

4. The apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein The processing device (37) is also configured to determine the characteristics of the container (12) based on the electrical operating parameters monitored by the electric drive unit (20).

5. The apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising: Output device (70) for outputting information to the user. The processing device (37) is also configured to control the output device (70) to output information indicating the determined state.

6. The apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein... The processing device (37) is also configured to operate the electric drive unit (20) according to the determined state.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein... The holding force, opening time, closing time, and / or adjustment stroke of the container support (14) can be variably adjusted by means of the electric drive unit (20); and / or The processing device (37) is configured to operate the electric drive unit (20) in different modes.

8. The apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising: Another container support (16), wherein the container support (14) and the other container support (16) are arranged to overlap vertically to simultaneously hold the container (12). Another electric drive unit (22) is operatively connected to the other container support (16) and is used to operate the other container support (16).

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein The processing device (37) is further configured to: - The state of the container support (14) and / or the state of the other container support (16) is determined by comparing the electrical operating parameters monitored by the electric drive unit (20) with the electrical operating parameters monitored by the other electric drive unit (22).

10. The apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein... The device (64) is implemented as a conveyor; and The processing device (37) is configured to stop the conveyor when a determined state of the container support (14) indicates a defect or impending defect in the container support (14).

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processing device (37) is further configured to: - Operate the conveyor according to the determined state of the container support (14); and / or - Operate the electric drive unit (20) according to the power of the conveyor.

12. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The container support (14) is a pair of clamp arms.

13. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The electrical operating parameters of the electric drive unit (20) are the current consumption and / or electrical power of the electric drive unit (20).

14. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, The container (12) is characterized by its size and / or weight.

15. The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein, The variable adjustment is performed automatically by means of the processing device (37) based on the monitored electrical operating parameters.

16. The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein, The different modes differ at least partially in terms of the holding force, opening time, closing time, and / or adjustment stroke of the container holder (14); and / or The different modes are configured to hold different containers (12), wherein the different containers (12) are different in terms of container weight, container size, container shape, container diameter and / or container material.

17. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, The other container support (16) is another pair of clamp arms.

18. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, The processing device (37) is further configured to: - Monitor the electrical operating parameters of the other electric drive unit (22); and - Determine the state of the other container support (16) based on the electrical operating parameters monitored by the other electric drive unit (22).

19. The apparatus according to claim 18, wherein, The processing device (37) is further configured to: The electrical operating parameters of the other electric drive unit (22) are monitored during operation of the other container support (16).

20. The apparatus according to claim 18, wherein, The electrical operating parameters of the other electric drive unit (22) are the current consumption and / or electrical power of the other electric drive unit (22).

21. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein, The conveyor is a rotatable clamp star wheel.

22. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein, The device (64) has a slip ring transformer (68) electrically connected to the electric drive unit (20).

23. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein, The processing device (37) is further configured to: The electric drive unit (20) is operated according to the power of the conveyor to adjust the holding force, opening time, closing time and / or stroke of the container support (14) according to the power of the conveyor.

24. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein, The processing device (37) is further configured to: The electric drive unit (20) is operated according to the current power of the conveyor to adjust the holding force, opening time, closing time and / or adjusting stroke of the container support (14) according to the power of the conveyor.

25. A method for operating an apparatus for handling a container (12) for transport containers, the method comprising: The container support (14) is operated by means of the electric drive unit (20) to hold the container (12); The electrical operating parameters of the electric drive unit (20) are monitored by means of a processing device (37); and The state of the container support (14) is determined by monitoring the electrical operating parameters of the electric drive unit (20) using the processing device (37). in: The determined condition is the wear condition and / or defects of the container support (14); and / or The determined status indicates whether the container support (14) is idling without holding a container (12) when being operated.

26. The method of claim 25, further comprising at least one of the following steps: The determined state is output using the output device (70); When the determined state indicates a defect in the container support (14) or a wear condition of the container support (14) that requires maintenance, the device is stopped by means of the processing device (37). The device is operated according to the state determined by the processing device (37); Based on the monitored electrical operating parameters and / or the power of the device (64) designed as a conveyor, the holding force, opening time, closing time, and / or stroke of the container support (14) are adjusted by means of the processing device (37); and The characteristics of the container (12) are determined by monitoring the electrical operating parameters of the electric drive unit (20) using the processing device (37).

27. The method according to claim 25 or claim 26, wherein The determined status indication: - Whether the container holder (14) holds or has held the container (12).

28. The method according to claim 25, wherein, The container support (14) is a pair of clamp arms.

29. The method according to claim 25, further comprising: The electrical operating parameters of the electric drive unit (20) are monitored during operation using the processing device (37).

30. The method according to claim 25, wherein, The electrical operating parameters of the electric drive unit (20) are the current consumption and / or electrical power of the electric drive unit (20).

31. The method of claim 26, wherein, The container (12) is characterized by the size and / or weight of the container (12).

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