Head for closing a container

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a closure for closing a container. In particular, the invention relates to a head (10) having a magnetic coupling (16) and an adjusting device (26) having a holding part (28), an adjusting part (44), a connecting part (36) and a locking part (46). An adjustment member (44) carries a first magnet ring (18) of the magnetic coupling (16). The connecting part (36) adjustably holds the adjusting part (44) on the holding part (28) to adjust the first magnet ring (18) relative to the second magnet ring (20) of the magnetic coupling (16) for adjusting the maximum closing torque. The connecting part (36) is elastically pretensioned for assuming a holding position in which the connecting part (36) connects the adjusting part (44) to the holding part (28) in a rotationally fixed manner. The locking part (46) is elastically pretensioned in order to assume a locking position, in which the locking part (46) blocks the connecting part (36) in the holding position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sealing head of a closure device for closing a container and a method for adjusting a magnetic clutch of the sealing head. Background Art

[0002] In beverage canning plants, it is well known to provide a sealing device for closing containers with screw caps, also known as a capping machine or screw sealer. Such a device for closing containers with screw caps may include a head with a closure element, which receives the screw cap screwed onto the container for closing the container. The head can be configured to rotate about a rotation axis and vertically lowered onto the container to be closed, bringing the screw cap into contact with the container opening. The screw cap is tightened by rotating the head.

[0003] One type of closure includes a magnetic coupling that provides a rotational coupling of a drive element of a device, providing torque or rotation, and a closure element. This magnetic coupling can be based on the principle of a hysteresis clutch. Here, multiple magnetic elements connected to the drive element in a rotationally fixed manner can be positioned relative to multiple magnetic elements connected to the closure element in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0004] For example, EP 1 387 812 A1 discloses a device for screwing a threaded cap onto a container. The device has a magnetic coupling disposed between a drivable spindle and a closure head. An inductive detector connected to the closure head that detects the movement of a permanent magnet is disposed in the circulation area. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The invention is based on the object of providing an improved adjustment of a magnetic coupling of a head for adjusting the maximum closing torque.

[0006] This object is achieved by the features of the independent claim. Advantageous developments are indicated in the dependent claims and in the description.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a (e.g., spiral) closure for a (e.g., rotating) closure device for sealing a container. The closure has a magnetic coupling comprising a first magnetic ring, preferably an outer magnetic ring (hysteresis ring), and a second magnetic ring, preferably an inner magnetic ring, the first and second magnetic rings magnetically interacting with each other for transmitting torque. The closure has an adjustment device comprising a (e.g., driving) retaining member, an adjustment member, a connecting member, and a locking member. The adjustment member carries the first magnetic ring (e.g., via a rotationally fixed connection between the adjustment member and the first magnetic ring). The connecting member adjustably (e.g., in height) retains the adjusting member on the retaining member to adjust the first magnetic ring relative to the second magnetic ring for adjusting the maximum closure torque. The connecting member is elastically prestressed to assume a retaining position, in which the connecting member connects the adjusting member to the retaining member in a rotationally fixed manner. The locking member is elastically prestressed to assume a locking position, in which the locking member blocks the connecting member in the retaining position.

[0008] Advantageously, the adjustment device can greatly simplify the adjustment of the closing torque, which is usually time-consuming and tedious. The closing torque can be adjusted without tools. Therefore, it is easy to adjust the closing torque when changing products. For example, it is necessary to loosen the threaded element with a tool and tighten it again after adjustment, which is a typical example. Conventional technology is very complex and prone to errors, especially in the case of closing devices with many heads. For example, if the threaded element is not tightened as required, the inside of the ball bearing may be damaged. In addition, it is not necessary to turn the machine over to reach the threaded element, which is advantageous because this process is very prone to errors (it is easy to forget one or more heads).

[0009] In one exemplary embodiment, the connecting member is a spring-loaded pressure piece. Alternatively, the connecting member can be supported on the locking member in a spring-loaded manner, preferably on the inner side of the locking member. Advantageously, the spring-loaded pressure piece can enable fine step adjustment of the locking torque.

[0010] In another exemplary embodiment, the connecting part has a first pin, preferably an inner pin, which is in close contact with (e.g., inside) the locking part, and a second pin, preferably an outer pin, which is in close contact with (e.g., outside) the retaining part (e.g., in a groove rail of the retaining part) and is preferably arranged coaxially with the first pin. Optionally, the connecting part can have an elastic element, preferably a helical compression spring, which elastically supports the second pin on the first pin and is preferably arranged coaxially with the first and second pins. Preferably, the elastic element can elastically pre-tension the connecting part (e.g., its second pin) for assuming a retaining position. Advantageously, this can make possible a structure of the connecting part that provides, on the one hand, safe and reliable locking and, on the other hand, a fine step adjustment of the closing torque.

[0011] In one embodiment, the locking component includes a groove in which the first pin is guided. Alternatively or additionally, the locking component includes a recess for receiving the second pin in a portion of the locking component outside the locked position for releasing the connecting component. Advantageously, this allows the connecting component to be securely guided and fixed in place, while also allowing for reliable and easy locking and unlocking of the connecting component.

[0012] In another embodiment, the closure has a stop element arranged to limit the mobility of the locking member (e.g. in the locked position and / or unlocked position), preferably by being fastened to the adjustment member and / or engaging with an elongated hole of the locking member. Advantageously, this simplifies the operation of the adjustment device and prevents error conditions.

[0013] In one embodiment variant, the sealing head has at least one spacer which keeps the adjusting part and the holding part at a certain distance for creating a cleaning gap, preferably an annular cleaning gap, between the adjusting part and the holding part. Advantageously, this can improve the cleanability of the adjusting device.

[0014] In another embodiment variant, the closure has a helical spring which, in a collar portion on the first magnetic ring, preferably on the periphery, elastically supports the locking element for assuming the locked position and preferably coaxially surrounds the first magnetic ring. Advantageously, this allows for reliable and space-saving elastic pretensioning of the locking element.

[0015] In one exemplary embodiment, the locking member has at least one cleaning opening, through which the adjustment member, the holding member, and / or the cleaning gap, preferably an annular cleaning gap, between the adjustment member and the holding member can be accessed from the outside for feeding a cleaning liquid. Alternatively or additionally, the adjustment member has at least one cleaning opening, through which the cleaning gap, preferably annular cleaning gap, between the holding member and / or the adjustment member and the holding member can be accessed from the outside for feeding a cleaning liquid. Advantageously, this can make it possible to perform a thorough cleaning without removing the head and, if applicable, to disassemble the head.

[0016] In another exemplary embodiment, the magnets of the first magnetic ring are encapsulated and / or the magnets of the second magnetic ring are encapsulated. Alternatively or additionally, a sleeve-shaped (e.g., thin-walled) metal sheet, preferably a stainless steel sheet, covers the magnets of the first magnetic ring on the inner circumference of the magnets, and / or (e.g., another) sleeve-shaped (e.g., thin-walled) metal sheet, preferably a stainless steel sheet, covers the magnets of the second magnetic ring on the outer circumference of the magnets. Advantageously, for example, this can achieve a protective arrangement of the magnets so that they are not affected by cleaning fluids.

[0017] In one embodiment, the first magnetic ring can be adjusted by an adjusting device to increase the overlap with the second magnetic ring for increasing the maximum closing torque of the closing element of the head in the downward direction and / or the maximum closing torque of the closing element toward the head. Advantageously, unlike conventional methods, this can be achieved: when a low closing torque is set, unnecessary coverage of the closing element by the magnetic ring (hysteresis ring) does not occur. Therefore, there may be an advantage when using a clamping head, which finds more space and can therefore be significantly shortened. By reversing the adjustment direction, the adjustment stroke can be increased so that the torque range is larger. It is possible for the two magnetic rings to completely overlap at the maximum setting, which was not possible in the past.

[0018] In another embodiment, the connecting component is mounted in the adjustment component so that it can move axially. Alternatively or additionally, if the locking component does not block the connecting component in the retaining position, the connecting component can be moved radially from the retaining position relative to the longitudinal center axis of the head to adjust the adjustment component and the first magnetic ring to the retaining component. Preferably, the connecting component can be pressed out by the retaining component. Advantageously, this allows the first magnetic ring to be rotated in fine increments and the closing torque to be varied.

[0019] In one embodiment variant, the locking member is movable parallel to or rotatable about the longitudinal center axis of the closure head between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein the connection member is released for leaving the retaining position. Advantageously, this makes it easy to unlock and lock the connection member, and therefore the adjustment member and the first magnetic ring, without the need for tools.

[0020] In one embodiment variant, the adjustment member can be rotated, preferably helically, about the retaining member in the unlocked position of the locking member. When the adjustment member is rotated, the connecting member is pressed out of the retaining position by the retaining member against its elastic pretension. Alternatively or additionally, the outer peripheral surface of the retaining member has a grooved track, preferably a helical grooved track, in which the connecting member engages. Optionally, the groove bottom of the grooved track has a plurality of, preferably circular, recesses arranged one after another along the longitudinal path of the grooved track for engaging the connecting member in the retaining position. Advantageously, this allows for step-by-step adjustment of the locking torque in fine increments.

[0021] In an exemplary embodiment, the locking member, the adjusting member, and / or the retaining member are coaxially arranged with respect to each other (and, for example, coaxially with the longitudinal center axis of the head). Alternatively or additionally, the locking member, the adjusting member, and / or the retaining member are sleeve-shaped. Alternatively or additionally, the connecting member is pin-shaped.

[0022] In another exemplary embodiment, the head further comprises at least one of the following:

[0023] a drive element, which is preferably a drive shaft, wherein the drive element is drivingly connected to the holding part;

[0024] - a pivot bearing connecting in rotation the retaining member and the second magnetic ring; and

[0025] A closing element, preferably a closing cone, wherein the closing element is carried on the second magnetic ring.

[0026] As disclosed herein, another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for a magnetic coupling of an adjustable head. The method comprises: manually moving the locking part (e.g., downward) from a locked position to an unlocked position against the elastic pre-tensioning of the locking part to release the connecting part for movement and thereby release the adjusting part for rotation. The method further comprises: manually rotating the adjusting part around the retaining part (e.g., stepwise), preferably helically, to adjust the first magnetic ring to a desired adjustment position relative to the second magnetic ring. When the adjusting part is manually rotated, against its elastic pre-tensioning, the released connecting part is pressed out of the retaining position by the retaining part. The released connecting part, which is in the desired adjustment position, moves back to the retaining position under the elastic pre-tensioning. The method further comprises moving the locking part back to the locked position so that the connecting part is locked again in the retaining position. Advantageously, the method can achieve the same advantages as those described with reference to the head.

[0027] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a container processing facility (e.g., for temperature control, production, cleaning, coating, testing, filling, closing, pasteurizing, labeling, printing, marking, laser marking, and / or packaging containers for liquid or pasty media (preferably beverages, liquid foods, or products from the pharmaceutical or healthcare industries). The container processing plant can have a (e.g., rotary) closure device having at least one closure head as disclosed herein.

[0028] For example, the container may be realized as a bottle, a jar, a cartridge, a carton, a vial, a tube, or the like.

[0029] The preferred embodiments and features of the present invention described above can be combined with each other as needed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Further details and advantages of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0031] Figure 1 shows a cross-sectional perspective view of a head according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the exemplary head; and

[0033] Figure 3 Shown Figure 2 Perspective view of a cross-sectional detail.

[0034] The embodiments shown in the figures correspond at least partially, so that similar or identical components have the same reference numerals and, to avoid repetitions, reference is also made to the description of other embodiments or figures for their explanation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] Figure 1 A closure head 10 of a closure device for closing a container is shown. Preferably, the closure head 10 is capable of closing a container having a screw cap.

[0036] The closure device can include a closure head 10 or preferably a plurality of closure heads 10 for closing multiple containers simultaneously or temporarily overlapping. For example, the closure device can be a rotary closure device. The closure heads 10 can be arranged and distributed around the periphery of a sealer conveyor of the closure device. Alternatively, for example, the closure device can be a linear closure device, e.g., having a plurality of closure heads 10 arranged in a continuous, adjacent, or one-by-one arrangement.

[0037] For example, the closing device can be included in a container processing plant.The closing device can be arranged downstream or integrated with a filling device for filling the containers with liquid or pasty filling material.

[0038] Below, reference Figures 1 to 3 , the head 10 is described in detail with an example.

[0039] The end cap 10 has a magnetic coupling 16 and an adjustment device 26. Preferably, for example, the end cap 10 can also have a drive element 12 and a closing element 14 (only as Figure 1 ).

[0040] The drive element 12 can be driven in any suitable manner, for example with an electric drive unit. The drive element 12 can have a vertical axis of rotation. The drive element 12 can preferably be a shaft, preferably a hollow shaft.

[0041] The drive element 12 can be connected to the magnetic coupling 16 for transmitting the drive torque of the closure element 14. Specifically, the drive element 12 can be connected to the drive side of the magnetic coupling 16. For example, the drive element 12 can be drivingly connected to the magnetic coupling 16 via the adjustment device 26.

[0042] The closure element 14 can have a closure seat. When the closure element 14 is rotated, the screw cap held in the closure seat can be screwed into the container.

[0043] The closing element 14 is preferably realized as, preferably, a toothed closing cone. For example, an elastic retaining ring for retaining the screw cap can be arranged at the lower end of the closing element 14.

[0044] The closing element 14 is able to accommodate the driving torque from the magnetic coupling 16. The closing element 14 can be connected to the output side of the magnetic coupling 16. For example, the closing element 14 can be carried on the output side of the magnetic coupling 16.

[0045] The magnetic coupling 16 can also be referred to as a hysteresis coupling. The magnetic coupling 16 has a first magnetic ring 18 and a second magnetic ring 20.

[0046] The first magnetic ring 18 may be an outer magnetic ring, and the second magnetic ring 20 may be an inner magnetic ring. The first magnetic ring 18 may be arranged outside the second magnetic ring 20 or around the second magnetic ring 20. The magnetic rings 18, 20 may be arranged coaxially with the longitudinal center axis L of the head 10. The magnetic rings 18, 20 may be spaced apart from each other by an air gap. The magnetic rings 18, 20 may be mounted so that they can rotate relative to each other.

[0047] The first magnetic ring 18 and the second magnetic ring 20 interact magnetically with each other to transmit torque. The transmitted torque can be used to drive the closure element 14 for screwing the threaded cap into the container. The closure element 14 can be supported on the second magnetic ring 20, preferably on the inner side of the second magnetic ring.

[0048] The magnetic rings 18 , 20 can in each case have a plurality of permanent magnets, which are arranged circumferentially around the longitudinal center axis L. For example, the permanent magnets can be oriented vertically.

[0049] The magnets of the first magnetic ring 18 are preferably encapsulated. The magnets can be completely enclosed by the housing of the first magnetic ring 18. The housing can preferably include a sleeve-shaped metal sheet 22. The metal sheet 22 can preferably be a stainless steel sheet. The metal sheet 22 can cover the magnets of the first magnetic ring 18 on the inner circumference of the magnets. The inner circumference can face the second magnetic ring 20.

[0050] Alternatively or additionally, the magnets of the second magnetic ring 20 can be encapsulated. The magnets can be completely enclosed by the housing of the second magnetic ring 20. The housing can preferably include a sleeve-shaped metal sheet 24. The metal sheet 24 can preferably be a stainless steel sheet. The metal sheet 24 can cover the magnets of the second magnetic ring 20 on the outer peripheral side of the magnets. The outer peripheral side can face the first magnetic ring 18.

[0051] The first magnetic ring 18 can be connected to the drive element 12 in a rotationally fixed manner. The second magnetic ring 20 can be connected to the closure element 14 in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0052] Below a maximum closing torque (starting torque) that can be predefined by the relative arrangement of the first and second magnetic rings 18 , 20 , torque can be transmitted from the drive element 12 to the closure element 14 via the magnetic coupling 16 due to the magnetic forces generated between the magnetic rings 18 , 20. If the maximum closing torque is reached or exceeded, the magnetic holding forces between the magnetic rings 18 , 20 and between the drive element 12 and the closure element 14 are interrupted. The closure element 14 can slide substantially uniformly relative to the drive element 12. This ensures that, for example, a screw cap can be screwed into a container with a predefined maximum closing torque.

[0053] The adjustment device 26 is capable of adjusting the relative arrangement between the first magnetic ring 18 and the second magnetic ring 20. The adjustment device 26 allows the relative arrangement between the first magnetic ring 18 and the second magnetic ring 20 to be varied for adjusting the maximum closing torque. The relative arrangement can refer to an axial overlap of the magnetic rings 18 and 20 relative to the longitudinal center axis L or an overlap (hiding) of the magnetic rings 18 and 20 in a radial viewing direction relative to the longitudinal center axis L.

[0054] Preferably, the adjustment device 26 allows the first magnetic ring 18 to be adjusted downwardly toward the closure element 14 to increase the overlap with the second magnetic ring 20 and thus increase the maximum closing torque. On the other hand, the adjustment device 26 can allow the first magnetic ring 18 to be adjusted upwardly away from the closure element 14 to reduce the overlap with the second magnetic ring 20 and thus reduce the maximum closing torque.

[0055] The adjusting device 26 has a holding part 28 , a connecting part 36 , an adjusting part 44 and a locking part 46 .

[0056] Preferably, the holding member 28, the adjustment member 44 and the locking member 46 are arranged coaxially with respect to one another and with respect to the longitudinal center axis L. Preferably, the holding member 28, the adjustment member 44 and / or the locking member 46 can each be sleeve-shaped. Preferably, the connecting member 36 is pin-shaped.

[0057] The holding part 28 can be connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the drive element 12. For example, the holding part 28 can be connected in a press-fit and / or form-fit manner to the drive element 12. It is also possible that the holding part 28 and the drive element 12 can be connected to each other integrally.

[0058] The outer peripheral surface of the retaining member 28 may have a grooved track 30. The grooved track 30 preferably runs helically about the longitudinal center axis L. The groove bottom of the grooved track 30 may have a plurality of recesses 32 arranged along the longitudinal course of the grooved track 30. The recesses 32 are preferably realized as circular depressions, for example, in the form of spherical segments. The recesses 32 may be arranged continuously one after another along the longitudinal course of the grooved track 30.

[0059] The holding component 28 can carry the first magnetic ring 18 . Specifically, the holding component 28 can carry the first magnetic ring 18 via the connecting component 36 and the adjusting component 44 .

[0060] The holding member 28 can carry the second magnetic ring 20. Specifically, the holding member 28 can carry the second magnetic ring 20 via a pivot bearing 34. The pivot bearing 34 can rotatably connect the holding member 28 and the second magnetic ring 20. The pivot bearing 34 can be arranged on the inner side of the holding member 28. For example, the pivot bearing 34 can be a ball bearing, preferably an angular contact ball bearing.

[0061] The holding member 28 can carry the closing element 14 . Specifically, the holding member 28 can carry the closing element 14 via the pivot bearing 34 and the second magnetic ring 20 .

[0062] The connecting member 36 adjustably holds the adjusting member 44 on the holding member 28 to adjust the first magnetic ring 18 relative to the second magnetic ring 20 for adjusting the maximum closing torque.

[0063] Preferably, the connecting part 36 is a spring-loaded pressure piece. For example, the connecting part 36 can have a first pin 38, a second pin 40 and a spring-loaded element 42.

[0064] The connecting member 36 can preferably be oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal center axis L. For example, the pins 38 , 40 can be oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal center axis L.

[0065] Preferably, the pins 38, 40 and optionally the elastic element 42 are arranged coaxially with respect to each other. The pins 38, 40 are movable relative to each other.

[0066] Preferably, the first pin 38 can be an inner pin. The second pin 40 can be an outer pin. For example, the first pin 38 and / or the elastic element 42 can be received in a hole, preferably a blind hole, in the second pin 40. Preferably, the elastic element 42 is disposed between the first pin 38 and the second pin 40. For example, the elastic element 42 can surround the first pin 38. The elastic element 42 is preferably a helical compression spring.

[0067] The connecting member 36 may be axially movably (displaceably) mounted in the adjustment member 44. Preferably, the connecting member 36 is movable in a radial direction relative to the longitudinal center axis L.

[0068] For example, the adjustment member 44 may have a through-hole, and the connecting member 36 may be mounted in the through-hole so that the connecting member can move axially. For example, a sliding sleeve may be disposed in the through-hole. The connecting member 36 may extend through the sliding sleeve. Specifically, the second pin 40 may preferably be mounted so that the second pin can move axially in the adjustment member 44, preferably in a sliding sleeve of the adjustment member 44.

[0069] The connecting member 36 can abut against the locking member 46 and the retaining member 28 at opposite ends. For example, the end (head) of the first pin 38 can be close to the inner circumference of the locking member 46. For example, the second pin 40 can be close to the retaining member 28. Preferably, the end region of the second pin 40 protrudes into the groove rail 30.

[0070] In the holding position of the connecting element 36, the connecting element 36 connects the adjustment element 44 to the holding element 28 in a rotationally fixed manner. In the holding position, the connecting element 36 can engage in one of the recesses 32 of the groove rail 30. Preferably, the front end of the end region of the second pin 40 can engage in one of the recesses 32 of the groove rail 30 when the connecting element 36 is in the holding position.

[0071] The connecting part 36 is elastically prestressed for assuming a holding position. For example, the elastic element 42 can elastically support the second pin 40 on the first pin 38. Preferably, the elastic element 42 can press the second pin 40 into the groove rail 30.

[0072] Preferably, the connecting member 36 can be supported on the locking member 46 in a spring-loaded manner, preferably, on the inner side of the locking member. Specifically, for example, the elastic element 42 can be supported on the first pin 38, which in turn can be supported on the inner peripheral side of the locking member 46.

[0073] The adjustment member 44 carries the first magnetic ring 18. For example, the adjustment member 44 can carry the first magnetic ring 18 at the lower end of the adjustment member 44. The adjustment member 44 and the first magnetic ring 18 can be connected to each other in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0074] For example, the adjustment member 44 and the first magnetic ring 18 can be connected to each other in one piece. It is also possible that the adjustment member 44 and the first magnetic ring 18 are fastened to each other, for example, in a press-fit or form-fit manner.

[0075] Preferably, the adjustment part 44 can be arranged on an outer side of the holding part 28 and / or on an inner side of the locking part 46 .

[0076] By adjusting the adjusting member 44 relative to the holding member 28, the first magnetic ring 18 can be adjusted relative to the second magnetic ring 20. Preferably, height adjustment of the first adjusting member 44 relative to the holding member 28 can result in height adjustment of the first magnetic ring 18 relative to the second magnetic ring 20.

[0077] Specifically, if the connecting element 36 is not blocked in the retaining position, the adjusting element 44 can be rotated, preferably helically, about the retaining element 28. This rotation, preferably helically, can be guided by the connecting element 36 guided in the grooved rail 30. When the adjusting element 36 is rotated, the connecting element 36 can be pressed out of the retaining position from the retaining element 28 by the elastic element 42 (unlocking) against its elastic pretension. The helically rotating adjusting element 44 about the retaining element 28 preferably causes the height of the adjusting element 44 relative to the retaining element 28 to be adjusted. This can cause the relative height of the first magnetic ring 18 to be adjusted toward the second magnetic ring 20, thereby adjusting the maximum locking torque.

[0078] For example, clockwise rotation of the adjustment member 44 around the retaining member 28, preferably helical rotation, can cause the adjustment member 44 to descend relative to the retaining member 28, and counterclockwise rotation of the adjustment member 44 around the retaining member 28, preferably helical rotation, can cause the adjustment member 44 to ascend relative to the retaining member 28 (and vice versa).

[0079] Preferably, the lowering of the adjustment member 44 relative to the holding member 28 can cause the first magnetic ring 18 to lower relative to the second magnetic ring 20, thereby preferably increasing the overlap between the first and second magnetic rings 18, 20. On the other hand, preferably, the raising of the adjustment member 44 relative to the holding member 28 can cause the first magnetic ring 18 to rise relative to the second magnetic ring 20, thereby preferably reducing the overlap between the first and second magnetic rings 18, 20.

[0080] The locking member 46 is elastically prestressed for assuming a locked position. In the locked position, the locking member 46 blocks the connecting member 36 in the retaining position.

[0081] Preferably, the locking member 46 can be elastically pretensioned by an elastic element, such as a coil spring 48. The coil spring 48 is preferably a coil compression spring.

[0082] The coil spring 48 is preferably arranged below the locking member 46. The coil spring 48 can, for example, be arranged coaxially with the longitudinal center axis L and the first magnetic ring 18. Preferably, the coil spring 48 can surround the first magnetic ring 18.

[0083] Preferably, the coil spring 48 can be supported on one side of the lower end of the locking member 46. On the other hand, the coil spring 48 can preferably be supported on a collar portion 50. The collar portion 50 is preferably a circumferential collar portion. For example, the collar portion 50 can be arranged on the first magnetic ring 18, for example, arranged on the circumference and / or lower end of the first magnetic ring 18.

[0084] Preferably, the locking member 46 is manually movable parallel to the longitudinal center axis L between the locked position and the unlocked position. In the unlocked position, the locking member 46 can release the connecting member 36 for leaving the retaining position. Preferably, the locking member 46 can be moved vertically downward from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0085] However, it is also possible that the locking member 46 can be moved from the locked position to the unlocked position in another way. For example, the locking member 46 can be rotated from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0086] Preferably, the locking member 46 may have Figure 2 and Figure 3The recess 52 shown. Preferably, for example, the recess 52 can be realized as a groove-shaped or bowl-shaped depression. The recess 52 is preferably arranged on the inner peripheral side of the locking member 46.

[0087] The recess 52 can preferably be arranged and cut so that, if the locking member 46 is in the unlocked position, the recess can only partially receive the second pin 40 of the connecting member 36. Specifically, in the unlocked position, the end region of the second pin 40 facing the locking member 46 can preferably be received in the recess 52.

[0088] For example, the recess 52 can have a depth greater than or equal to the depth of the recess 32. Preferably, the recess 52 can have a width greater than or equal to the width of the connecting member 36 and / or the second pin 40. Preferably, the recess 52 can be arranged in the upper half of the locking member 46.

[0089] Preferably, because when the adjustment member 44 is rotated, the connecting member 36 (for example, its second pin 40) can be pressed out of the retaining position and into the recess 52 by the retaining member 28 against its elastic pretension, the locking member 46 positioned in the unlocked position can release the rotation of the adjustment member 44, preferably a helical rotation.

[0090] On the other hand, because when the adjusting member 44 rotates, the connecting member 36 (for example, its second pin 40) cannot be pressed out of the retaining position to the recess 52 by the retaining member 28 against its elastic pretension, the locking member 46 positioned in the locked position can block the rotation of the adjusting member 44.

[0091] Preferably, the locking member 46 may also have Figure 2 and Figure 3 The recess 54 is preferably realized as a longitudinal groove. The recess 54 can preferably be arranged on the inner circumference of the locking part 46.

[0092] Preferably, the groove 54 can be arranged in the lower half of the locking member 46. For example, the groove 54 can be incorporated into the recess 52.

[0093] Preferably, the groove 54 can be oriented vertically. For example, one end (head) of the first pin 38 can be guided in the groove 54.

[0094] For example, the groove 54 may have a width smaller than the width of the recess 52. Preferably, the groove 54 may have a width greater than or equal to the width of the first pin 38. Preferably, the groove 54 may have a depth corresponding to the depth of the recess 52.

[0095] The mobility of the locking member 46 between the locked position and the unlocked position can be limited by a stop element 56. The stop element 56 can preferably limit both the locked position and the unlocked position.

[0096] For example, the terminating element 56 may be pin-shaped or thread-shaped. The terminating element 56 is preferably oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal center axis L.

[0097] The terminating element 56 is preferably fastened to the adjusting part 44. For example, the terminating element 56 can be fastened, for example screwed into, a blind hole or a through hole in the adjusting part 44.

[0098] Preferably, the terminating element 56 engages in an elongated hole 58 of the locking member 46. The elongated hole 58 is preferably oriented vertically. For example, the upper end of the elongated hole 58 can define an unlocked position of the locking member 46. For example, the lower end of the elongated hole 58 can define a locked position of the locking member 46.

[0099] Preferably, the terminating element 56 can also connect the locking part 46 and the adjusting part 44 to one another in a rotationally fixed manner, for example by engaging in the elongated hole 58 .

[0100] Optionally, the adjustment member 44 and the holding member 28 may be spaced apart from each other. Specifically, the inner circumference of the adjustment member 44 and the outer circumference of the holding member 28 may be spaced apart from each other. Preferably, a (cleaning) gap may be formed between the holding member 28 and the adjustment member 44. The clean gap may extend over the entire height of the adjustment member 44 and the holding member 28.

[0101] For example, the adjustment device 26 may have at least one spacer 60. The at least one spacer 60 may keep the adjustment component 44 and the holding component 28 at a certain distance to create a cleaning gap between the adjustment component and the holding component.

[0102] For example, at least one spacer 60 may be fastened into or to one of the retaining member 28 and the adjusting member 44 , eg, screwed in, pressed in, or fixed or connected integrally, and slidably contact the other of the retaining member 28 and the adjusting member 44 .

[0103] Preferably, a plurality of spacers 60 may be included. For example, the plurality of spacers 60 may be distributed circumferentially around the longitudinal center axis L and / or may be arranged in a manner spaced apart from each other relative to the longitudinal center axis L.

[0104] Optionally, the adjustment member 44 and / or the locking member 46 may have at least one cleaning opening 62, 64. For example, the at least one cleaning opening 62, 64 may be arranged below the connecting member 36. Preferably, the cleaning gap between the adjustment member 44 and the holding member 28 is accessible from the outside via the at least one cleaning opening 62, 64, and, therefore, external cleaning fluid can reach it.

[0105] For example, if the locking member 46 is in the locked position, one cleaning opening 62 of the adjustment member 44 and one cleaning opening 64 of the locking member 46 may be aligned with each other.

[0106] For example, at least one cleaning opening 62, 64 may be rectangular.

[0107] The at least one cleaning opening 62, 64 may preferably extend over at least one third or at least one half of the total height of the adjustment member 44 or the locking member 46. The at least one cleaning opening 62, 64 may preferably extend circumferentially relative to the longitudinal center axis L over an angular range of at least 15 degrees, at least 20 degrees, at least 25 degrees, or at least 30 degrees.

[0108] Preferably, a plurality of cleaning openings 62 and / or 64 may be included. For example, the plurality of cleaning openings 62 and / or 64 may be distributed circumferentially around the longitudinal center axis L and / or may be spaced apart from each other relative to the longitudinal center axis L.

[0109] Reference below Figures 1 to 3 The method for adjusting the magnetic coupling 16 is explained, which is made possible by the cover 10 .

[0110] Initially, the locking member 46 can be manually moved from the locked position to the unlocked position. Preferably, for example, the locking member 46 can be displaced downward. As already explained, for example, the locking member 46 can alternatively be manually rotated from the locked position to the unlocked position. The locking member 46 is manually moved against its elastic pretension, which is caused, for example, by a coil spring 48. In the unlocked position, the connection member 36 is free to move, and thus, the adjustment member 44 is free to rotate, preferably helically.

[0111] When the locking member 46 is retained in the unlocked position, the adjusting member 44 can be manually rotated, preferably helically, about the retaining member 28 to adjust the first magnetic ring 18 relative to the second magnetic ring 20 to a desired adjustment position. Preferably, the locking member 46 can also be rotated. When the adjusting member 44 is manually rotated, the released connecting member 36 can be pressed out of the retaining position from the retaining member 28 by the elastic element 42 against its elastic pretension. Specifically, the second pin 40 can preferably be pressed out of the recess 32 and, thus, into the recess 52 at the opposite end of the second pin 40.

[0112] In the desired adjustment position (and, if applicable, any intermediate position with its own recess 32 leading to the adjustment position), the released connecting part 36 can be moved back into the retaining position under the elastic pretension of the elastic element 42. In particular, the second pin 40 can preferably be pressed out of the recess 52 under the elastic pretension of the elastic element 42 and thus into the recess 32 at the opposite end of the second pin 40.

[0113] In the desired adjustment position, the locking element 36 can then be moved back into the locking position manually and / or by elastic prestressing, for example, by means of a coil spring 48. This locks the connecting element 36 in the holding position again. This further facilitates the rotationally fixed connection between the holding element 28, the connecting element 36, the adjusting element 44 and the first magnetic ring 18.

[0114] The invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. On the contrary, a variety of variants and modifications are possible which likewise exploit the inventive concept and therefore fall within the scope of protection. In particular, the invention also claims protection for the subject matter and features of the dependent claims, regardless of the claims to which they refer. In particular, the individual features of independent claim 1 are each disclosed independently of one another. Furthermore, the features of the dependent claims are also disclosed independently of all features of the independent claim 1 and, for example, independently of features relating to the presence and / or configuration of the magnetic coupling, the adjusting device, the retaining part, the adjusting part, the connecting part and / or the locking part of the independent claim 1. All ranges specified herein are to be understood as being disclosed in such a way that all values ​​falling within the relevant range are disclosed individually, for example also as the relevant preferred narrower outer limit of the relevant range.

[0115] List of Reference Numerals

[0116] 10 Head

[0117] 12 driving elements

[0118] 14 Closure element

[0119] 16 Magnetic Coupling

[0120] 18 First magnetic ring

[0121] 20 Second magnetic ring

[0122] 22 Metal Sheet

[0123] 24 Metal Sheets

[0124] 26 Adjustment device

[0125] 28 holding parts

[0126] 30 groove rail

[0127] 32 recess

[0128] 34 pivot bearing

[0129] 36 Connecting parts

[0130] 38 pins

[0131] 40 pins

[0132] 42 elastic element

[0133] 44 Adjustment components

[0134] 46 Locking parts

[0135] 48 Coil Spring

[0136] 50 ring part

[0137] 52 recess

[0138] 54 grooves

[0139] 56 Termination element

[0140] 58 elongated hole

[0141] 60 spacers

[0142] 62 Cleaning the opening

[0143] 64 Cleaning opening

[0144] L longitudinal center axis.

Claims

1. A sealing head (10) for a sealing device for sealing a container, the sealing head comprising: a magnetic coupling (16) having a first magnetic ring (18), preferably an outer magnetic ring, and a second magnetic ring (20), preferably an inner magnetic ring, the first magnetic ring and the second magnetic ring magnetically interacting with each other for transmitting torque; and An adjusting device (26) comprising a retaining member (28), an adjusting member (44), a connecting member (36) and a locking member (46), wherein: - the adjusting member (44) carries the first magnetic ring (18); - the connecting member (36) adjustably holds the adjusting member (44) on the holding member (28) to adjust the first magnetic ring (18) relative to the second magnetic ring (20) for adjusting the maximum closing torque; - the connecting part (36) is elastically prestressed for assuming a holding position in which the connecting part (36) connects the adjusting part (44) to the holding part (28) in a rotationally fixed manner; and The locking element (46) is elastically prestressed for assuming a locking position in which it blocks the connecting element (36) in the retaining position.

2. The sealing head (10) according to claim 1, wherein: The connecting member (36) is a spring-loaded pressure piece and optionally The connecting part (36) is supported in a spring-loaded manner on the locking part (46), preferably on the inner side of the locking part (46).

3. The sealing head (10) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the connecting member (36) has: a first pin (38), preferably an inner pin, the first pin abutting the locking member (46); a second pin (40), preferably an outer pin, which is adjacent to the retaining member (28) and is preferably arranged coaxially with the first pin (38); and An elastic element (42), preferably a helical compression spring, elastically supports the second pin (40) on the first pin (38) and is preferably arranged coaxially with the first pin (38) and the second pin (40).

4. The closure (10) according to claim 3, wherein the locking member (46) has: a groove (54) in which the first pin (38) is guided; and / or A recess (52) is provided for receiving the second pin (40) at a portion of the locking member (46) outside the locking position for releasing the connecting member (36).

5. The closure (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one of the following: a terminating element (56) arranged to limit the mobility of the locking member (46), preferably by being fastened to the adjusting member (44) and / or engaging with an elongated hole (58) of the locking member (46); at least one spacer (60) that keeps the adjusting member (44) and the holding member (28) at a distance for creating a cleaning gap, preferably an annular cleaning gap, between the adjusting member (44) and the holding member (28); and A coil spring (48) resiliently supports the locking member (46) on a collar portion (50) on the first magnetic ring (18), preferably on the periphery, for assuming the locking position and preferably coaxially surrounds the first magnetic ring (18).

6. A closure (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The locking element (46) has at least one cleaning opening (64) through which the adjustment element (44), the holding element (28) and / or a cleaning gap, preferably an annular cleaning gap, between the adjustment element (44) and the holding element (28) is accessible from the outside for feeding cleaning liquid; and / or The adjusting element (44) has at least one cleaning opening (62) through which the holding element (28) and / or a cleaning gap, preferably an annular cleaning gap, between the adjusting element (44) and the holding element (28) is accessible from the outside for feeding cleaning liquid.

7. The closure (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the following conditions is met: The magnets of the first magnetic ring (18) are encapsulated; The magnet of the second magnetic ring (20) is encapsulated; a sleeve-shaped metal sheet (22), preferably a stainless steel sheet, covering the magnets of the first magnetic ring (18) on the inner circumference of the magnets; and A sleeve-shaped metal sheet (24), preferably a stainless steel sheet, covers the magnets of the second magnetic ring (20) on the outer circumference of the magnets.

8. A closure (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first magnetic ring (18) can be adjusted by the adjustment device (26) to increase the overlap with the second magnetic ring (20) so as to increase the maximum closing torque of the closing element (14) of the head (10) in the downward direction and / or the maximum closing torque toward the closing element of the head.

9. A closure (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The connecting member (36) is mounted in the adjusting member (44) so ​​that the connecting member can move axially; and / or If the locking part (46) does not block the connecting part (36) in the holding position, the connecting part (36) can be moved from the holding position in the radial direction relative to the longitudinal center axis (L) of the head (10) to adjust the adjustment part (44) and the first magnetic ring (18) to the holding part (28), and preferably, the connecting part can be pressed out by the holding part (28).

10. The closure (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The locking member (46) is movable parallel to the longitudinal center axis (L) of the head (10) between the locking position and the unlocking position or is rotatable about the longitudinal center axis of the head between the locking position and the unlocking position, wherein the connecting member (36) is released for leaving the retaining position.

11. The closure (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The adjusting part (44) is rotatable, preferably helically rotatable, about the retaining part (28) in the unlocking position of the locking part (46), wherein when the adjusting part (44) is rotated, the connecting part (36) is pressed out of the retaining position by the retaining part (28) against its elastic pretensioning.

12. The closure (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The outer peripheral surface of the holding member (28) has a groove track (30), preferably a spiral groove track, in which the connecting member (36) engages; and optionally The groove bottom of the groove rail (30) has a plurality of, preferably circular, recesses (32) which are arranged consecutively one after the other along the longitudinal course of the groove rail (30) for engaging the connecting part (36) in the retaining position.

13. The closure (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the following conditions is met: The locking member (46), the adjusting member (44) and / or the retaining member (28) are arranged coaxially with each other; The locking member (46), the adjusting member (44) and / or the retaining member (28) are sleeve-shaped; and The connecting component (36) is pin-shaped.

14. The closure (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one of the following: a drive element (12), preferably a drive shaft, wherein the drive element (12) is drivingly connected to the holding part (28); a pivot bearing (34) rotatably connecting the retaining member (28) and the second magnetic ring (20); and A closing element (14), preferably a closing cone, wherein the closing element (14) is carried on the second magnetic ring (20).

15. A method for adjusting a magnetic clutch (16) of a closure (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises: manually moving the locking member (46) from the locking position to the unlocking position against the elastic pretension of the locking member for releasing the connecting member (36) for movement and thus releasing the adjusting member (44) for rotation; The adjusting member (44) is manually rotated, preferably helically, around the holding member (28) for adjusting the first magnetic ring (18) to a desired adjustment position relative to the second magnetic ring (20), wherein: - when the adjusting member (44) is manually rotated, the released connecting member (36) is pressed out of the retaining position by the retaining member (28) against its elastic pretension; and - the released connecting part (36) located in the desired adjustment position moves back to the holding position under the elastic pretension; as well as The locking member (46) is moved back to the locking position so that the connecting member (36) is locked again in the retaining position.

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