Method and device for inspecting containers provided with devices

Abstract

A method and apparatus for inspecting a container provided with a device. In a method for inspecting a container (1), a device is mounted on at least one surface region of an outer wall of the container, the device (10) having at least one carrier-free device element, and preferably a plurality of device elements (10a, 10b, 10c), which are at least partially unconnected to one another, characterized in that the device (10) has at least one carrier-free device element, and preferably a plurality of device elements (10a, 10b, 10c). According to the invention, a surface region equipped with at least one device element or device element (10a, 10b, 10c) is inspected by means of an inspection device (4) and at least one characteristic value (A) is output, which characteristic value represents at least one characteristic characteristic of the first device element.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a method and a device for checking equipped containers, in particular liquid containers, in particular beverage containers. Background Art

[0002] Many such methods and devices are known from the prior art.

[0003] In the context of the present invention, the provision of a container is particularly understood to mean that the container is provided with a label and / or a print. These labels and / or prints are particularly applied to the peripheral wall of the container.

[0004] EP 2 290 355 A2 discloses a device and a method for checking labeled containers. In this case, a lighting device is provided, which has at least two individually controllable lighting screens. EP 3 612 452 discloses a label. EP 0 820 933 B1 describes a labeling machine.

[0005] The quality control of the labeling process, the decoration process (also referred to below as the equipment process) or the printing process now often consists of camera-based inspection units. After the labeling process, they check various aspects, such as whether the label is positioned correctly or whether the label design is correct.

[0006] For the correct position (X / Y) and orientation (°) of a classic label, it is sufficient to check the position and orientation of the significant (partial) positions of the label or device element. Since all decorative elements are firmly connected together by the labeling substrate (e.g. paper or plastic), the correct position of the entire label can be inferred from at least one significant position.

[0007] In general, the correct label design can be assessed by distinctive, meaningful places. Therefore, it is sufficient to recognize a meaningful 1D or 2D code and read the unique alphanumeric label ID number to identify the entire label.

[0008] If an error is detected, the entire system reacts to this, for example by ejecting these incorrectly labeled bottles and / or by counteracting the error as far as possible.

[0009] In the applicant's prior art, known device methods do not apply the entire label, but rather individual device elements which, however, are advantageously not connected to one another.

[0010] In another novel device or decoration method, a novel decoration is used. It no longer has the basic carrier material described in the "prior art", that is, in this case, the decoration consists only of paint and adhesive and is therefore particularly easy to tear, fold, separate small parts, etc. during the entire processing process.

[0011] Today, the inspection of a classic labeling does not mean that all individual elements of the individual decoration to be transferred are present and completely present.

[0012] Nor is it checked whether the individual elements of the individual decorations have been transferred to the container completely and undamaged, undeformed (and / or without defects, such as cracks, etc.).

[0013] Furthermore, there is no check whether all individual elements of the individual decoration to be transferred are correctly positioned and / or correctly positioned relative to one another, in particular with regard to the horizontal and vertical orientation and the angular alignment in the running direction of the object to be decorated.

[0014] Furthermore, it is not checked whether all individual elements of the individual decorations to be transferred are correct (in particular correct in content) and whether they reflect the correct information content. This applies in particular to so-called legal texts, such as alcohol labels. If it is 12% and the 1 is not transferred, the container will say 2%.

[0015] Furthermore, it is not checked whether the individual elements, preferably all the individual elements, are dimensionally stable. Thus, for example, as the applicant has found in experiments, when the device is applied, a compression tension may occur.

[0016] Furthermore, the inspection systems known from the prior art and the corresponding labeling devices or equipment arrangements are not able to react appropriately to incorrect positioning of the individual components relative to one another. Summary of the invention

[0017] It is therefore an object of the present invention to improve the inspection of containers, in particular containers having a plurality of device elements.

[0018] According to the invention, this object is achieved by the subject matter of the independent patent claim. Advantageous embodiments and developments are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0019] According to the method for checking a container according to the invention, a device is mounted on at least one surface area of ​​an outer wall of the container, wherein the device has at least one carrier-free device element and / or preferably a plurality of device elements which are at least partially not connected to one another. However, in the simplest case, it is also possible to mount only one (in particular carrier-free) device element. In this case, the term "carrier-free" means in particular that the device element itself is mounted on the container and in particular that the device element is not arranged on a carrier.

[0020] Preferably, no device element is connected to another device element. Preferably, the device has no carrier to which the individual device elements are connected. Thus, preferably, the device elements are mounted individually and / or separately to the surface area.

[0021] According to the invention, a surface area equipped with at least one device element or device elements is inspected by an inspection device and at least one characteristic value is output, which is at least one characteristic property that characterizes the device element (or these device elements).

[0022] This means that, preferably, the relevant characteristic is precisely characteristic of the relevant device element and the characteristic value is in turn characteristic of the relevant characteristic.

[0023] In the context of this application, the term "device" is used, but in some cases the term "decoration" is also used. The two terms are considered synonymous.

[0024] In another preferred method, the characteristic value may also be a malfunction state characterizing a device component or device, such as deformation, crack, etc.

[0025] In a preferred method, the characteristic is a single characteristic characteristic of the first device element.

[0026] This means that the characteristic is only characteristic of the first device element and not of the other device elements, ie the first device element is checked individually. Preferably, several device elements are checked individually and preferably several such characteristic values ​​are output.

[0027] In a preferred method, the characteristic is a single characteristic characteristic of the first device element.

[0028] This means that the characteristic is only characteristic of the first device element and not of the other device elements, ie the first device element is checked individually. Preferably, several device elements are checked individually and preferably several such characteristic values ​​are output.

[0029] In a preferred method, the characteristic value is characteristic of the position of the first device element relative to the surface area and / or the position of the first device element relative to the second device element.

[0030] Thus, the invention can be used when a plurality of device features are applied to the container, but it can also be used when only one (in particular carrier-free) device feature is applied.

[0031] Thus, the invention can also be used when there are not a plurality of equipment elements but only one equipment element. If an equipment element is damaged, it (or the associated container) can be removed and, if necessary, the equipment process can be intervened by regulating or controlling technology and future damage can be avoided.

[0032] In another preferred method, the characteristic value is a characteristic of the consistency between the actual condition of the equipment element and the set condition of the equipment element, preferably the condition / deviation of the profile of the equipment element. If the profile deviation is within a predetermined threshold value (preferably -0.2mm, but also between -0.2mm / -0.5mm), the characteristic characteristic value is output.

[0033] In the context of the present patent application, devices are understood to be in particular decorations, but also markings with information content, such as names, numbers, letters or codes. Preferably, the devices and / or device elements are optically perceptible elements mounted on the surface of the container. However, other devices such as container closures are preferably not involved within the scope of the present invention.

[0034] In a preferred method, the characteristic is a single characteristic characteristic of the first device element.

[0035] This means that the characteristic is only characteristic of the first device element and not of the other device elements, ie the first device element is checked individually. Preferably, several device elements are checked individually and preferably several such characteristic values ​​are output.

[0036] While it is not possible in the prior art to detect various system tolerances (bottle tolerances, feed tolerances, labeling element tolerances . . . ) in advance and to adjust them (during and / or between production operations), the possibility of such adjustments is proposed within the scope of the present invention.

[0037] Furthermore, the possibility is provided to readjust individual elements or plant elements to the set distance after they have been placed if the trend deviates from the set distance.

[0038] The inspection device preferably detects a plurality of, particularly preferably all, relevant data required for the adjustment (of the device). The data are preferably selected from a set of data comprising the position and / or orientation of device elements (individual decorations or devices relative to each other), the rotational position of device elements and / or the actual shape of device elements.

[0039] Furthermore, the checking device preferably checks the completeness and accuracy of all elements / individual elements that are important for the decorative effect and information, in particular texts, brand information, legal information, composition and proportions etc.

[0040] The reason is the above-mentioned sensitivity of such decoration processes, in particular the sensitivity of the decoration to be applied, since it lacks the carrier material customary in labels (paper labels => paper; plastic labels => plastic films).

[0041] If the detection system detects a deviation and generates a characteristic value, the signal is forwarded, for example, to a container discharge system in order to separate the intolerable deviation from the product flow and not process it further.

[0042] Optionally (particularly deviations with trends, individual deviations, etc.), the system (particularly the control of the device and / or the entire device) preferably regulates these deviations (preferably in the direction of travel). This can be achieved, for example, by a servo regulator or the like.

[0043] Preferably, the checking device detects a plurality and preferably all relevant data required for the adjustment, such as, for example, the position and / or orientation of the system elements relative to one another.

[0044] This detection can preferably be carried out directly in the labeling device or the equipment device.Here, the alignment of the container with respect to its vertical axis remains essentially unchanged.

[0045] In a preferred method, the device is mounted on a filled and closed container. However, particularly in the case of plastic containers, it is also conceivable that the device is mounted on an empty container.

[0046] Preferably, the printing is on the empty container so that in the event of a printing error, the product does not need to be destroyed, but only the container. But technically both are possible.

[0047] It is also possible to perform the inspection only after the container has been transferred, for example on a subsequent transport device. Since the alignment of the container is usually no longer guaranteed there, in this case, a full-scale inspection with appropriate evaluation is preferably performed.

[0048] Furthermore, due to the longer transport paths, the time constants for regulation are much higher.

[0049] The regulator may use as input variable only the value of the distance between two device elements of the decoration, but may also use a combination of different values ​​(eg several distance values, information about the rotational position of one or more device elements, etc.).

[0050] In this case, the regulation can act on a plurality of containers simultaneously, for example by varying the transport speed during application, but can also act on a single container, for example by varying the rotation speed during application, or by a combination thereof.

[0051] Furthermore, it is also conceivable to achieve a change by varying the transfer speed of the decoration on the respective container to be decorated.

[0052] Alternatively or additionally, an adaptation of an application-specific positioning system is also conceivable.

[0053] Preferably, the detection and control and / or regulation of the (device device) are performed together on the computer unit. However, it is also conceivable that these processes are performed in separate systems, for example in an inspection system for detection and in a machine controller for regulation, which can communicate via a suitable interface.

[0054] In the novel device or labeling method that is the subject of the present application, the composition of the label is applied to a carrier layer. The composition of the label is rich in an adhesive layer. The adhesive layer is preferably applied to the side of the composition facing away from the carrier layer. Optionally, the adhesive layer is applied to the side of the composition facing the carrier layer.

[0055] During the application of the component to the container, the labeling operation or the decoration or operation of the device, the component is released from the carrier tape and applied to the container without any carrier material. The adhesive layer forms a firm connection with the container and permanently fixes the labeling element.

[0056] The carrier layer with the labels is preferably inserted into the labeling machine as a roll with a plurality of "labels". The carrier material preferably remains on the labeling machine, is collected and processed.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the device and / or the device elements are visually and / or tactilely perceptible.

[0058] Particularly preferably, the device element is made of plastic. The container is also preferably a plastic container. However, it is also conceivable to use a glass container. In addition, the container can also be a metal container, such as a can, or also a container made of fiber.

[0059] In another preferred method, the device elements are mounted on the container starting from a carrier element, preferably a carrier tape. This means that the device elements are preferably first located on a carrier tape, and the carrier tape is preferably guided onto the container to be equipped, and in this way the device elements are transferred from the carrier tape to the container.

[0060] In this case, for applying the device element, the carrier tape is preferably guided on the edge.Alternatively, for applying the device element, the carrier tape is guided via a rotating body and a transfer element located thereon, such as a conveyor drum.

[0061] Preferably, the device element is selected from a group of device elements comprising a QR code, a barcode, numbers, letters, image elements, etc. In this case, the device element may also be colored.

[0062] In a further preferred method, it is checked whether all equipment elements that should be present according to the specification are actually present. Thus, the set combination of equipment elements is preferably compared with the actual combination. In this way, it can be checked whether a complete transfer of all equipment elements and a complete transfer of each individual equipment element has taken place, or whether a complete transfer of only one equipment element to the container has taken place. If a single equipment element is found to be missing, the relevant container can be ejected and / or the operation of the equipment checked.

[0063] If individual equipment elements themselves are incomplete, damaged, torn, etc., the associated container must be ejected. At the same time, the corresponding characteristic values ​​can be used for corresponding regulation or control of the decoration process, for example by readjusting or controlling the contact pressure, the relative transfer speed (speed curve between equipment element and container during the contact process) or other adjustment possibilities.

[0064] In a further preferred method it is checked whether the individual device elements are arranged in a set position (on the container and / or relative to each other) and / or whether the individual device elements are arranged in a set rotational position on the container (and / or relative to each other).

[0065] In another preferred method, it is checked whether the device element actually applied to the container corresponds to the device element to be applied to the container. For example, the device element, for example in the form of a barcode, can indicate the liquid in the container. Thus, in this way, it can be determined whether the device element correctly indicates the liquid in the container.

[0066] In another preferred method, the actual shape of the device element is compared with the set shape. Thus, for example, the compression or stretching of the device element actually mounted on the container, or the integrity of the contour of the device element can be checked or experienced. In other words, for example, it can be checked whether the actual shape of the label or the combination of device elements or a single device element corresponds to the set combination or set shape.

[0067] Particularly preferably, during the contour check, deviations in the range of -0.2 mm to -0.5 mm relative to the set contour must be detected. Thus, the system can detect both very slight deviations and also large deviations.

[0068] In a further preferred method, the device element is fastened, in particular glued, to a surface of the container.

[0069] Particularly preferably, the surface of the container is the outer circumference. In particular, the container surface is a circumferential surface, in particular a cylindrical or frustoconical surface.

[0070] In another preferred method, the device element mounted on the surface area of ​​the container is a smooth or slightly curved surface area. However, it is also conceivable to apply to surfaces with a certain roughness (e.g. orange peel), because the adhesive layer arranged on the device element can compensate for a certain roughness.

[0071] Due to the absence of carrier material, the decoration / device element to be transferred can adapt to curved surfaces more easily. It is therefore less prone to wrinkling etc. The transition from smooth surfaces to these curves is preferably smooth / flowing and edges must be avoided.

[0072] Due to the absence of carrier material, this type of device can be a preferred alternative to so-called "No Label Look" labels (NLL-E). NLL-E are characterized by a flat transparent substrate and partially printed areas. In the prior art, it is known that NNL-E tends to cause air inclusions when applied to uneven surfaces. These air inclusions and their two additional optical boundary transitions from medium to air and vice versa can be perceived very clearly with the eye. When applying the NLL-E, care is therefore taken to ensure that it does not lie, for example, above the so-called press seam of the container. This type of device is different. In particular, for reasons of principle, no air inclusions can be allowed between the device elements.

[0073] In a further preferred method, at least one device element has a predetermined minimum distance from at least one further device element and preferably from each further device element.

[0074] This minimum distance is particularly preferably greater than 0.5 mm, preferably greater than 1 mm, particularly preferably greater than 1.5 mm. In another preferred method, this minimum distance is less than 30 mm, preferably less than 25 mm, preferably less than 20 mm, preferably less than 15 mm.

[0075] Preferably, limit values ​​are defined within which the determined actual minimum distance should lie relative to the set minimum distance of the two device elements. If the actual minimum distance is determined by the check to exceed these limit values, countermeasures can be taken.

[0076] In a further preferred method, the inspection is carried out by means of an image recording device which records spatially resolved images of the surface area on which the device elements are arranged.

[0077] Preferably, after being equipped with container, carry out image recording immediately.In this case, "immediately" is understood to be less than 10 seconds, preferably less than 8 seconds, preferably less than 6 seconds, preferably less than 5 seconds time period after being equipped, carry out image recording.

[0078] Particularly preferably, the surface is illuminated, in particular also during the creation of the recording by means of the image recording device. In a further preferred method, the surface is illuminated by white light. Particularly preferably, the surface is illuminated by directional and / or diffuse radiation, in particular by directional and / or diffuse light.

[0079] The image recording is particularly preferably carried out by means of an incident light method. The lighting device is particularly preferably a flashlight which illuminates the surface area of ​​the container (on which the device element is arranged) at least during the image recording.

[0080] In a further preferred method, the surface is recorded by a plurality of image recording devices.

[0081] Particularly preferably, the recorded image of the surface on which the device elements are arranged is compared with at least one reference image. In this way, we preferably determine whether all device elements are present and / or whether the device elements have the correct position, the correct rotational position and / or the correct distance to other device elements.

[0082] In a further preferred method, the geometry of at least one device element and preferably a plurality of device elements is detected.

[0083] In another preferred method, the characteristic value is selected from a group of characteristic values, which are characteristic values ​​characterizing the position of the equipment element relative to the surface area in the longitudinal direction of the container, the position of the equipment element relative to the surface area in the circumferential direction of the container, the position of the equipment element relative to another equipment element in the longitudinal direction of the container, the position of the equipment element relative to another equipment element in the circumferential direction of the container, the rotational position of the equipment element relative to the surface area, the rotational position of the equipment element relative to another equipment element, the distortion of the equipment element, the deformation of the equipment element, the compression of the equipment element, the elongation of the equipment element, the existence of the equipment element, the information content of the equipment element, the consistency between the actual condition of the equipment element and the set condition of the equipment element, and a combination thereof.

[0084] Particularly preferably, several such characteristic values ​​are detected. Thus, for example, a characteristic value characterizing the position of a first device element relative to a second device element, another characteristic value characterizing the position of the first device element relative to a third device element, and one or more characteristic values ​​characterizing the rotational position of a plurality of device elements can be detected.

[0085] Preferably, the characteristic value is compared with a reference value and / or a set value, and a signal characterizing the comparison is preferably output. Thus, for example, in response to the comparison, a control command can be output to the device, or a command to discharge the relevant container can also be output.

[0086] In a further preferred method, an image of the surface area equipped with the device elements is recorded and the image is compared with at least one reference image.

[0087] The position and rotation (orientation) of the individual device elements are preferably determined and compared in the reference and recording equipped surfaces, respectively. Preferably, the absolute position relative to the surface and the orientation of the device elements relative to each other are compared.

[0088] In another preferred method, the device and / or device elements are connected to the container and / or the container is inspected during the movement of the container. Preferably, the installation of the device and / or device elements on the container and the inspection of the container both occur during the movement of the container.

[0089] In this case, the container is particularly preferably moved along a straight or curved, in particular circularly curved, transport path during the installation and / or the inspection.

[0090] In another preferred method, the container is rotated relative to its longitudinal axis during installation and / or inspection.

[0091] In a further preferred method, the device element is applied to the container in the form of a self-adhesive element.

[0092] Particularly preferably, the device elements are applied substantially simultaneously. This means that the device elements are applied within 10 seconds, preferably within 5 seconds, preferably within 3 seconds, preferably within 1 second.

[0093] Particularly preferably, at least some of the device elements are mounted on the container with a small time offset. The time offset is preferably greater than 1 ms, preferably greater than 2 ms, preferably greater than 5 ms.

[0094] In a further preferred method, the characteristic value is taken into account to control the equipment of the container with one or more equipment elements. Thus, a control loop can preferably be provided, which takes into account the characteristic value for regulation, in particular on the equipment device.

[0095] Thus, for example, the transport speed of the container can be changed, the container can be rotated, or the rotation speed of the container can be changed.

[0096] Furthermore, for example, the operating speed of the means for supplying the equipment elements to the container may be varied.

[0097] The invention further relates to a method for inspecting a container, wherein a container is provided, wherein a device is mounted on at least one surface area of ​​an outer wall of the container, wherein the device has at least one carrier-free device element and / or a plurality of device elements which are (at least partially) not connected to one another. Preferably, no device element is connected to another device element.

[0098] According to the invention, a surface area provided with an equipment element is inspected by an inspection device and at least one characteristic value is output, which is at least one characteristic property that characterizes (in particular at least one) equipment element.

[0099] Preferably, the characteristic value is characteristic of a position of the first device element relative to the surface area and / or a position of the first device element relative to the second device element.

[0100] Therefore, here too, it is advisable to particularly check the alignment and / or positioning of the device elements.

[0101] The invention also relates to a device for inspecting containers, in particular liquid-fillable containers, in particular beverage containers, comprising at least one device device which is suitable and designed to mount the device on at least one surface area of ​​an outer wall of the container, wherein the device has at least one carrier-free device element and / or a plurality of device elements which are not (at least partially) connected to one another.

[0102] According to the invention, the device comprises an inspection device which is suitable and designed to inspect a surface area provided with an equipment element and to output at least one characteristic value, which is at least one characteristic property characterizing the equipment element.

[0103] Preferably, the characteristic value is characteristic of a position of the first device element relative to the surface area and / or a position of the first device element relative to the second device element.

[0104] The inspection system is preferably capable of inspecting the corresponding portion of the container. To this end, the inspection system may include one or more imaging sensors, such as a 2D camera, a 2D / 3D camera, a line camera, etc.

[0105] The imaging sensor or its optical system may preferably block certain polarization directions, in particular by means of suitable filters.

[0106] Furthermore, the sensor (or image recording device) itself might also be able to distinguish between polarization components (Sony polarization sensors).

[0107] The lighting can be a continuous light, a switchable light or preferably a flashing lighting, the flash duration of which is less than 1 ms, preferably less than 0.5 ms, particularly preferably less than 100 μs.

[0108] The illumination is preferably monochromatic in various wavelengths, such as red, green and blue, but also includes UV, IR or a combination of these wavelength ranges.

[0109] Depending on the type of production, the illumination may preferably combine different wavelength groups.The illumination may preferably be a continuous (partial) spectrum of visible light, so-called white light.

[0110] Furthermore, the illumination may partially radiate different wavelengths, for example arranged in stripes or other patterns, for example as a two-color pattern or a rainbow pattern or the like.

[0111] The illumination may also be diffuse, directional and / or polarized.

[0112] The illumination can be incident light, transmitted light, dark field, or a combination of these illumination types.

[0113] The imaging sensor can preferably adapt the focal plane, in particular by automatic, regulated or controlled adjustment on the objective lens, to different container diameters and thus to different distances to the sensor. This adaptation can preferably be performed once during a type change.

[0114] The identification can be carried out in the labeling machine or in the equipment. For this purpose, at least one sensor can preferably be installed along the transport path (of the container), and the corresponding labeling position on the labeled container is preferably moved by the equipment, preferably approximately, to a suitable position for detection by the sensor (or image recording device) and lighting.

[0115] The sensors are preferably installed along the transport path. These can be distributed in sections, in each case after a unit, or at the end, but preferably in the unit.

[0116] One or more sensors may also be arranged in a group so that in combination with the rotation of the container along the transport path (particularly continuous, non-endless machines), a larger circumferential area or the entire circumference of the container can be imaged in total.

[0117] Preferably, the surface sensor can image up to 120°, preferably up to 90°, particularly preferably 20-60° with sufficient quality.

[0118] The identification can be arranged downstream (particularly on a conveyor belt) after the labeling device or equipment device (360° ETK on the belt). For this purpose, at least one sensor and one lighting device are preferably arranged so that they can detect a part of the applied label.

[0119] Preferably, at least three, particularly preferably four or six, sensors or image recording devices are arranged in one plane. A plurality of planes is also possible.

[0120] Preferably, the distance between the containers is chosen such that the adjacent containers are far enough away from the container being inspected to allow the sensor (or the image recording device) to freely observe all locations of interest.

[0121] As a negative example, it is easy to understand that if containers stand close together along the transport path, the position will not be visible in the transport direction. On the other hand, adjacent containers should not be too far apart, because given a production capacity of X containers per unit time, this would greatly increase the transport speed. This is undesirable.

[0122] The evaluation unit preferably compares the sensor image or the image recorded by the image recording device with stored production data.

[0123] The control unit preferably controls the point in time of the image recording.In a machine, it may use a container clock signal and / or a motion signal of continuously finer resolution (eg from a rotary encoder).

[0124] After the machine, the control device can detect the container and / or the path increment signal (rotary encoder, transport speed) at any desired point in time using light barriers, actuators, etc.

[0125] The control unit preferably compensates for delays present in the device and calculates a dynamic advance up to the recording time point as a function of the current speed, optionally as a function of the current speed change.

[0126] One disadvantage of a rigid system is that at different speeds with a fixed hold time, recording will occur at different positions.

[0127] When the type changes, for example when the container diameter changes, the control unit preferably compensates for the difference.

[0128] The container particularly preferably consists of plastic, glass or paper pulp. Particularly preferably, the device element is a device element consisting of plastic. In a further preferred embodiment, the device element has at least one self-adhesive surface.

[0129] In another preferred embodiment, the device has a control device for controlling the equipment device, which is suitable and designed to control the equipment device by taking into account the characteristic value. In particular, the control device is a regulating device, which is suitable and designed to regulate the equipment device by taking into account the characteristic value.

[0130] For example, if the characteristic value indicates that the distance between the device element and another device element is greater than a predetermined set value, the device device can be controlled in such a way that the distance again corresponds to the set distance or lies within the range of the set distance defined by the limit value.

[0131] In another advantageous embodiment, the device has an ejection device which is suitable and designed to eject a single container by taking into account characteristic values. For example, if it is determined that the position of one device element relative to another device element is greater than the position allowed by the limit value relative to the set value, an instruction to eject the container can be issued.

[0132] In a further preferred embodiment, the discharge device is arranged (in the transport direction of the containers) downstream of the installation device and the inspection device.

[0133] In another advantageous embodiment, the device has a transport device for transporting the container from the equipment device to the inspection device. In this case, the transport device is particularly preferably adapted and designed to transport the container individually. For example, a clamping element can be provided, which clamps the container at the mouth of the container, for example at the support ring of the container.

[0134] In another advantageous embodiment, the device has an assignment device, which assigns an equipment operation to a container checked by the checking device. This means that it can be determined that a specific container X checked by the checking device has been equipped by the equipment device (in particular at a predetermined point in time or time period), and in particular, the associated equipment operation can be identified. Thus, it can be determined which specific equipment operation on the container caused which specific error.

[0135] Particularly preferably, the device has a memory device which stores individual device operations and / or data characterizing the same and / or individual test operations and / or data characterizing the same (for example characteristic values).

[0136] This storage can be carried out over a longer period of time. In this way, trends can also be determined, for example when the distance between the first and second equipment elements increases slowly or decreases slowly. For example, in this case, countermeasures can be carried out. In the case of other anomalies of the equipment elements, for example in the case of an incorrect rotational position of a specific equipment element, countermeasures can also be taken.

[0137] Preferably, the images recorded by the image recording device are evaluated. Artificial intelligence can preferably be used for this evaluation.

[0138] Using artificial intelligence, a similarity function between the reference image and the recording can be calculated to measure the deviation from the reference.

[0139] Additionally, AI can be used to locate individual device features in both the image and the reference image. Location,Location is a feature value, as described above.

[0140] Furthermore, the checking device is adapted and designed to check whether the device element is correctly arranged on the container or whether the device is, for example, protruding, deformed or the like.

[0141] Particularly preferably, the device has a transport device for transporting the container, in particular during an inspection operation.

[0142] Particularly preferably, the transport device is suitable and designed to transport the equipped containers at least in sections along a circular transport path.

[0143] Particularly preferably, the transport device is adapted and designed to transport the containers over a distance which is greater than half the diameter of a single container (or equal to half the diameter).

[0144] Preferably, the transport device is suitable and designed to transport the container over a distance of less than six times the container diameter, preferably less than five times the container diameter, preferably less than four times the container diameter, particularly preferably less than three times the container diameter.

[0145] Preferably, the transport device is suitable and designed to transport the containers individually and independently of each other. This can be achieved, for example, by a separate, purely electronically controlled and wear-free shuttle system. Individual control and direct regulation after characteristic value detection, even during application, is advantageous.

[0146] In a further advantageous embodiment, the transport device has at least one transport wheel and / or at least one transport star.

[0147] The invention further relates to an inspection device for inspecting containers, wherein the device is mounted on at least one surface area of ​​an outer wall of the container, wherein the device has at least one carrier-free device element and / or a plurality of device elements that are not (at least partially) connected to one another.

[0148] According to the invention, the inspection device is suitable and designed to output at least one characteristic value, which is at least one characteristic property that characterizes the first device element.

[0149] Preferably, the characteristic value is characteristic of a position of the first device element relative to the surface area and / or a position of the first device element relative to the second device element.

[0150] Preferably, the inspection device comprises an image recording device which inspects the container and / or records a spatially resolved image of the surface area on which the device element is arranged.

[0151] Preferably, the inspection device has an illumination device for illuminating the surface or the device. Particularly preferably, the inspection device has a transport device for transporting the inspected container along a predetermined transport path. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0152] Further advantages and embodiments can be seen from the accompanying drawings:

[0153] in:

[0154] Figure 1 A diagram showing a device according to the prior art is shown;

[0155] Figure 2 A diagrammatic representation of an apparatus showing a container according to the invention; and

[0156] Figure 3 A diagram is shown for illustrating the process of the present invention;

[0157] Figure 4 A diagram for detecting a single tag or device element is shown; and

[0158] Figure 5 A diagram for detecting various errors is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0159] Figure 1A device according to the prior art, for example a label, is shown. Here, the device has a plurality of device elements 100a, 100b, 100c and 100d. Here, these are image elements arranged on a carrier 120 or integrated therein.

[0160] All device elements 100a-d are here therefore firmly connected to one another via the carrier 120. Thus, when checking or applying the label 100, no positional displacement of the individual device features relative to one another can occur.

[0161] Figure 2 A device according to the invention is shown. Here too, several device elements 10a, 10b, 10c and 10d are provided. It can be seen that these device elements, such as image elements 10a or 10b, can be letter combinations (10c) or marking elements, such as bar codes (10d).

[0162] and Figure 1 Unlike the illustrated labels or the devices therein, the device according to the invention does not have any carrier, so that the device elements are not connected to one another.

[0163] Therefore, when they are applied to the container, they are applied separately from each other, for example by gluing.For this reason, during the manufacturing process, it may occur that individual device elements, for example device element 10a or 10b, have a distance that deviates from the set distance.

[0164] Figure 3 A diagram is shown for explaining the invention. In this case, a plurality of containers 1 each having an equipment element 10a, 10b, 10c and 10c are transported along a transport path P. An image recording device 4 is schematically shown which records the individual equipment elements on the containers 1 and is part of an inspection device (not shown).

[0165] exist Figure 3 In the case shown, the device elements 10b and 10a are at a distance A from each other relative to their respective starting points. This is also the set distance. The figure below shows the set distance (horizontal line) compared to the actual distance. It can be seen that the first two containers starting from the left each have device elements at this set distance from each other. The third and fourth containers starting from the left each have device elements 10a and 10b at a larger distance, i.e. A+X here.

[0166] As can be seen from the following increasing curve, the distance between the equipment elements 10a and 10b increases. The regulation preferably acts on the equipment device (not shown) and in this way the distance between the equipment elements 10a and 10b decreases again and returns to the set value A.

[0167] However, it is also possible to react to different distances between the equipment elements 10a and 10b in another way. For example, if the distance between the two equipment elements becomes too large or too small and can no longer be adjusted, a command can be issued to a discharge device (not shown) which discharges the corresponding container equipped in this way.

[0168] Figure 4 A diagram for evaluating a tag is shown. A tag or a device or a device element is shown here. The solid line represents a set contour. Preferably, it is checked whether the actually detected tag or the actually detected device is within a tolerance range. This tolerance range can be defined.

[0169] It is also possible to check whether recorded labels or recorded individual parts of the device are within predefined tolerances.

[0170] Figure 5 Examples of errors that can occur are shown. In the top row, the set state of the device is first shown, here in a rectangular shape. In the first error example, part of the label is missing, and in the second error example, a corner (here the top right corner) is bent or missing.

[0171] The set shape of the label or device is again shown in the middle row on the left. In the middle illustration, a defect in the form of a crack has occurred, and in the right illustration, part of the device or label is missing again.

[0172] In the bottom row, the set shape is again shown on the left. In the first defect, there may be a crack and / or part of the device is missing. In the second error, there is a folded edge on the right.

[0173] The applicant reserves the right to claim all features disclosed in the application documents that are essential to the invention, insofar as they are novel compared to the prior art, either individually or in combination. It is further noted that features that can be advantageous in themselves are also described in individual drawings. A person skilled in the art will immediately recognize that a certain feature described in a drawing can be advantageous even without the use of other features in the drawing. In addition, a person skilled in the art will recognize that advantages can also be derived by combining several features shown in a single drawing or in different drawings.

Claims

1. A method for inspecting a container (1), wherein: The device is mounted on at least one surface area of ​​the outer wall of the container, wherein the device (10) has at least one carrier-free device element which is at least partially not connected to one another, It is characterized in that The surface area equipped with the at least one device element or the device element (10a, 10b, 10c) is inspected by an inspection device (4) and at least one characteristic value (A) is output, which is at least one characteristic property that characterizes the first device element.

2. The method according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The characteristic is an individual characteristic characteristic of the first device element.

3. The method according to claim 1, It is characterized in that At least one device element has a predetermined minimum distance from at least one other device element, and the minimum distance is greater than 0.5 mm.

4. The method according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The inspection is performed by means of an image recording device which records spatially resolved images of the surface area on which the device elements are arranged.

5. The method according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The characteristic value is selected from a group of characteristic values, which are characteristic values ​​characterizing the position of the device element relative to the surface area in the longitudinal direction of the container, the position of the device element relative to the surface area in the circumferential direction of the container, the position of the device element relative to the other device element in the longitudinal direction of the container, the position of the device element relative to the other device element in the circumferential direction of the container, the rotational position of the device element relative to the surface area, the rotational position of the device element relative to the other device element, the distortion of the device element, the deformation of the device element, the existence of the device element, the information content of the device element, the consistency between the actual state of the device element and the set state of the device element, and combinations thereof.

6. The method according to claim 1, It is characterized in that An image of the surface area equipped with the device element is recorded and compared with at least one reference image.

7. The method according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The characteristic value is compared with a set value.

8. The method according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The device is mounted on the container and / or the inspection of the container is performed during movement of the container.

9. The method according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The device of the container with one or more device elements is controlled by taking into account the characteristic value.

10. A method for inspecting a container (10), wherein: A container (10) is provided, wherein a device is mounted on at least one surface area of ​​an outer wall of the container (10), wherein the device (10) has at least one carrier-free device element and / or a plurality of device elements (10a, 10b, 10c) which are at least partially not connected to one another, It is characterized in that The surface area equipped with the device element is inspected by an inspection device (4) and at least one characteristic value is output, which is at least one characteristic property that characterizes the device element.

11. A device for inspecting a container (10), comprising a device arrangement adapted and designed to mount the device on at least one surface area of ​​an outer wall of the container, wherein: The device (10) has at least one device element without a carrier and / or a plurality of device elements (10a, 10b, 10c) which are not connected to one another. It is characterized in that The device comprises an inspection device which is suitable and designed to inspect the surface area provided with the device element and to output at least one characteristic value, which is at least one characteristic property characterizing the device element.

12. The device according to claim 11, comprising a control device for controlling the device device, which is suitable and designed to control the device device by taking into account the characteristic value.

13. The device according to claim 11, comprising an ejection device adapted and designed to eject a single container by taking into account said characteristic value.

14. The device according to claim 11, It is characterized in that The device includes a transport device for transporting the container from the equipment device to the inspection device.

15. An inspection device for inspecting a container (10), wherein: The device is mounted on at least one surface area of ​​the outer wall of the container, wherein the device (10) has at least one carrier-free device element and / or a plurality of device elements (10a, 10b, 10c) that are not connected to each other, characterized in that: The inspection device is suitable and designed to output at least one characteristic value, which is at least one characteristic property that characterizes the first device element.

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