Device for sterilizing plastic preforms and related method

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (1) for treating single-piece goods (10), comprising a transport device (2) suitable and for transporting the single-piece goods, and at least one application device (4) suitable and for sterilizing, in particular with radiation, the single-piece goods transported by the transport device and / or applying a flowable sterilizing agent, the transport device (2) has a first transport unit (22) which can be rotated relative to the axis of rotation (D) and which has a plurality of first holding devices (220, 222, 224), which in each case are adapted and used for holding a single piece of goods, and wherein the transport device (2) has a second transport unit (24) which can be rotated relative to the axis of rotation (D) and which has a plurality of second holding devices (240, 242, 244), which in each case are adapted and used for holding a single piece of goods, and wherein the transport device (2) has a plurality of second holding devices (240, 242, 244), which in each case are adapted and used for holding a single piece of goods. The first holding device (222) is arranged in each case in a first plane (E1) perpendicular to the axis of rotation (D), the second holding device (222) is arranged in each case in a second plane (E2) perpendicular to the axis of rotation (D), characterized in that the transport device (2) comprises at least one first lifting device (12) adapted and intended to displace a predetermined first portion of the first holding device (220) relative to a predetermined second portion of the first holding device (222) in the direction of the axis of rotation (D).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for processing and, in particular, sterilizing single items of goods, especially plastic preforms or containers, particularly plastic containers. Background Technology

[0002] It is already known in the prior art that heated plastic preforms are molded into plastic containers. Furthermore, it is already known in the prior art that such deformed plastic containers can be sterilized, for example, if they are subsequently filled with beverages.

[0003] However, it has recently become known to sterilize heated plastic preforms before molding them into containers, for example, in a stretch blow molding machine. The advantage of this method is that relatively small plastic preforms and not significantly larger containers or bottles require sterilization.

[0004] For this purpose, it is known to introduce plastic preforms into a processing chamber and treat them in the processing chamber with a sterilizing medium such as hydrogen peroxide.

[0005] However, these methods have the drawback of limited efficiency. For example, it is impossible to transport plastic preforms through the processing chamber at a significantly increased rate because the time required for sterilization may not be sufficient in such cases.

[0006] DE 10 2022 212 5620A1 discloses a processing apparatus comprising a processing turntable having first and second processing planes. A container is processed on the first plane of the processing turntable, then removed from the turntable, and then conveyed to the second plane, where it is transferred back onto the turntable for further processing. In this way, different processing times can be achieved.

[0007] EP 0 998 418 B1 describes a multi-layer device for transporting containers. The device has multiple clamping members that can be vertically displaced during rotation of the device to lift the container to different planes. Container handling can be performed on each of the individual planes.

[0008] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus and method for improving the efficiency and output capacity of such sterilization equipment. According to the invention, these objects are achieved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments and modifications are the subject matter of the dependent claims. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The apparatus according to the invention for handling and, in particular, sterilizing single shipments, especially plastic preforms or (plastic) containers, has a transport device adapted for and used to transport the single shipments along a circular transport path. Furthermore, the apparatus has at least one application device adapted for and used to sterilize the single shipments transported by the transport device, particularly by radiation sterilization and / or by applying a flowable medium, particularly a sterilizing agent.

[0010] Furthermore, the transport equipment has a first transport unit rotatable relative to the axis of rotation, which has a plurality of first holding devices, each of which is adapted and used to hold a single piece of cargo, particularly a plastic preform or (plastic) container. In this case, these holding devices are arranged at equal intervals (one after another) in a first plane extending perpendicularly to the axis of rotation (particularly relative to the circumferential direction defined by the axis of rotation).

[0011] Furthermore, the transport equipment has a second transport unit that can rotate relative to the axis of rotation, which has a plurality of second holding devices, each of which is adapted and used to hold a single piece of cargo, particularly a plastic preform or (plastic) container, and the second holding devices are arranged equidistantly (one after another) in a second plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation, wherein the second plane is offset relative to the first plane in the direction of the axis of rotation.

[0012] In this context, maintaining the equidistant arrangement of the equipment is specifically understood to have a constant spacing, or in each case, to have equal distances from each other in the circumferential direction.

[0013] According to the present invention, the transport device includes at least one first lifting device adapted and used to displace a predetermined first portion of the first holding device in the direction of a rotation axis relative to a predetermined second portion of the first holding device.

[0014] Therefore, preferably, the lifting can be carried out on the same transport equipment, which also has multiple transport units arranged above one another.

[0015] Therefore, within the scope of this invention, it is proposed that a certain proportion of the first retaining device (particularly having plastic preforms arranged thereon) be displaced in the direction of the axis of rotation, i.e., particularly raised or lowered. In this way, as explained in more detail below, several planes of the retaining device can be occupied by plastic preforms or generally single items, so as to provide the possibility of more plastic preforms, particularly for simultaneous sterilization or general processing.

[0016] Therefore, particularly preferably, the first lifting device is allocated a first portion of the first holding device. For example, the first lifting device may be allocated the first third of the first holding device.

[0017] As described in more detail below, the handling and transport of individual items, particularly plastic preforms, therefore take place on at least two planes. Preferably, input and output occur on one plane, particularly by means of a holding device (especially a neck handle clamp). The individual item is then moved upward or downward (i.e., along the axis of rotation).

[0018] Preferably, the displacement of plastic preforms or typically individual shipments usually occurs simultaneously with their movement in the transport direction or along the transport path. Preferably, the individual shipments move continuously in the transport direction and / or can move continuously in the transport direction.

[0019] Individual shipments, particularly plastic preforms or (plastic) containers, are preferably not transferred to another transport device, such as a discharge star, before every second or subsequent round.

[0020] Individual shipments, particularly plastic preforms or (plastic) containers, are preferably handled in two planes, and especially by inflating with a gaseous sterilizing agent through a nozzle. The movement of individual shipments, particularly plastic preforms or (plastic) containers, is preferably carried out in groups in each case.

[0021] Vertical movement or lifting movement along the axis of rotation is preferably achieved by electric, pneumatic, or cam control.

[0022] In another advantageous embodiment, the number of first holding devices is equal to the number of second holding devices. Therefore, specifically, the number of holding devices in the second transport unit is equal to the number of holding devices in the first transport unit.

[0023] The movement of the transport units is preferably coupled in the transport direction. This means that at least two, but typically all, transport units move at the same speed in the same rotational direction. In a preferred embodiment, the movement of all transport units in the transport device is coupled to each other.

[0024] Particularly preferably, the second holding device (i.e., the holding device of the second transport unit) is precisely arranged above or below the first holding device (i.e., the holding device of the first transport unit). This means, for example, that the plastic preform held by the second holding device is geometrically directly above or below the plastic preform held by one of the first holding devices. However, preferably, at least one application device (particularly for applying the lower plastic preform) is provided between the two plastic preforms.

[0025] In this context, placing one preform directly on the other means that the geometric longitudinal axes or rotation axes of the two plastic preforms coincide. In other words, in the projection along the rotation axis of the transport device, all the second holding devices (of the second transport unit) are precisely positioned above or below the corresponding first holding devices (of the first transport unit).

[0026] The single item is preferably a plastic preform or a plastic container. Particularly preferably, the second holding device is precisely positioned above the first holding device in the longitudinal direction of the plastic preform.

[0027] Particularly preferably, the first and second planes are spaced apart from each other by at least the length of a single item, particularly the length of a plastic preform. Particularly preferably, the distance between the planes is greater than the distance corresponding to the longitudinal extent of the plastic preform. However, it is particularly preferred that the distance between the planes is less than three times the length of a single item, preferably less than three times the length of the plastic preform, and particularly less than twice the length of the plastic preform. These dimensions allow for effective sterilization of the plastic preform while maintaining a small structural space for the device.

[0028] The retaining device is particularly preferably a clamping device, especially a clamping clip. These retaining devices or clamping clips are particularly preferably adapted and used to hold the plastic preform in the opening region, particularly below its support ring. The clamping clip is particularly preferably a controllable clamping clip.

[0029] Therefore, preferably, at least one transport unit is constructed in segments, wherein each segment is assigned one of a plurality of holding devices. Preferably, all transport units are constructed in segments in this manner.

[0030] Preferably, at least three such segments are provided. In this way, two segments can be maintained at a constant height during loading and unloading of the plastic preform, and a third or other segment can be displaced in height or along the axis of rotation.

[0031] In another embodiment of the front wheel, the device has a housing within which a processing chamber is formed for handling and, in particular, sterilizing individual goods, especially pre-molded plastic parts. Particularly preferably, the aforementioned transport equipment is arranged within this processing chamber. This processing chamber is preferably a cleanroom shielded from a (non-sterile) environment.

[0032] Particularly preferably, the housing achieves an airtight or substantially airtight seal of the processing chamber. In this case, it is essentially understood that any existing locks on the plastic preforms passing through their infeed or outfeed are ignored.

[0033] In another advantageous embodiment, the holding devices, particularly the clamps, are made of a material resistant to sterilization media. Particularly preferably, the holding devices are arranged equidistantly from each other in the transport direction. Particularly preferably, a first portion of the first holding device is equal to a second portion of the first holding device.

[0034] Particularly preferably, the total number of holding devices for each transport unit can be divided by 3.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment, the first lifting device is adapted and used to shift a predetermined first portion of the second holding device relative to a predetermined second portion of the second holding device in the direction of the rotation axis.

[0036] This means that the entire first retaining device is not necessarily displaced, but only a portion of it is displaced. These retaining devices are particularly preferably arranged one after another in the circumferential direction of the transport device. In this way, a segment with multiple retaining devices is preferably displaced or can be displaced accordingly.

[0037] The displacement of a predetermined first portion of the second holding device is preferably coupled to the displacement of a predetermined first portion of the first holding device.

[0038] This means that, preferably, the first segment having a first part of a first holding device and the corresponding segment having a first part of a second holding device are displaced along the axis of rotation, preferably, these segments are positioned one above the other in the direction of the axis of rotation. Particularly preferably, the displaced portions of the first holding device and the displaced portions of the second holding device have the same or identical dimensions.

[0039] The proportion of the first holding device can also be a single holding device. However, it is preferably a plurality of holding devices, preferably at least two, preferably at least three, preferably at least four, preferably at least six, and preferably at least ten holding devices.

[0040] However, preferably, it is a group of holding devices arranged one after another directly in the transport equipment.

[0041] In this way, individual transport units can be equipped or loaded one after another using plastic preforms or, typically, single items.

[0042] In another embodiment of the front wheel, the transport device has a feeding area in which individual items, particularly plastic preforms, can be fed into the transport device, wherein the individual items can be fed in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

[0043] In addition, the transport equipment preferably has a discharge area in which individual items, particularly plastic preforms, can be discharged from the transport equipment, wherein the individual items can be discharged in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment, the feed plane and the discharge plane are located at substantially the same plane or substantially the same height relative to the axis of rotation. In this case, substantially the same plane is understood to mean that the horizontal difference in height between these planes does not exceed 5 cm, preferably not more than 3 cm, preferably not more than 1 cm, and preferably not more than 0.5 cm.

[0045] Preferably, the feed plane and the discharge plane remain constant, meaning that a single item is always fed and discharged in the same plane.

[0046] Therefore, particularly preferably, the feed plane and the discharge plane substantially coincide, wherein the feed area is offset relative to the discharge area in the circumferential direction of the first conveying device.

[0047] In another advantageous embodiment, the transport device has a third transport unit rotatable relative to the axis of rotation, which has a plurality of third holding devices, each adapted in each case for holding a single piece of cargo, particularly a plastic preform or container, and preferably arranged equidistantly in a third plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation. In this case, the third plane is offset relative to the first and second planes in the direction of the axis of rotation.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment, the distance between the third plane and the second plane is equal to the distance between the second plane and the first plane. In another advantageous embodiment, the number of third holding devices is equal to the number of first holding devices and the number of second holding devices.

[0049] Preferably, the third holding device is also located directly above the first and / or second holding devices.

[0050] Particularly preferably, the transport loops of the respective holding devices of the first and second transport units and, preferably, the third transport unit, correspond to each other.

[0051] It should be noted that the apparatus described herein for handling single items may also include two or more transport devices described herein. Preferably, at least two, and more preferably at least three, such transport devices are provided. All of these transport devices are preferably arranged in the aforementioned processing room.

[0052] In another preferred embodiment, the transport equipment may also have three or more transport units.

[0053] In another preferred embodiment, the transport device includes a second lifting device adapted and used to displace a predetermined second portion of the first holding device in the direction of the rotation axis relative to a predetermined first portion of the first holding device.

[0054] The lifting device can also be, for example, a guide cam that engages with multiple cam rollers, which can lift and lower a single segment. In this case, the lifting device is understood in each case as a combination of the guide cam with a specific cam roller and a corresponding carrier of the cam roller, which can then lift and lower the corresponding holding device. Therefore, in a configuration with a second guide roller, a second lifting device will also be provided. In each case, the lifting device also preferably has a guiding device adapted and used to guide the displacement movement along the axis of rotation.

[0055] In another preferred embodiment, the transport device includes a third lifting device adapted and used to displace a predetermined third portion of the first holding device in the direction of rotation relative to a predetermined first portion of the first holding device and / or relative to a predetermined first portion of the second holding device. The third lifting device may also be an electric, pneumatic, hydraulic, or cam-actuated lifting device.

[0056] In another preferred embodiment, three or more lifting devices are provided.

[0057] Therefore, in a preferred embodiment, a first transport unit having a first holding device, a second transport unit having a second holding device, and a third transport unit having a third holding device are provided. These first, second, and third holding devices preferably have first, second, and third portions of a holding device, respectively.

[0058] Therefore, particularly preferably, a first lifting unit is assigned to a first part of the first holding device, a second lifting unit is assigned to a second part of the first holding device, and a third lifting unit is assigned to a third part of the first holding device. These first, second, and third parts preferably have the same dimensions.

[0059] In this way, during the ongoing operation, the plastic preform can always be fed, for example, by a first part or first segment of the holding device that remains constant along the axis of rotation, and discharged by another, for example, a third segment that remains constant along the axis of rotation.

[0060] Conversely, the segment located between these two first and third segments can be shifted so that transport equipment, particularly plastic preforms or containers, can be fully loaded in this way.

[0061] In another preferred embodiment, the second lifting device is adapted and used to displace a predetermined second portion of the second holding device in the direction of the rotation axis relative to a predetermined first portion of the second holding device.

[0062] Particularly preferably, the displacement of a predetermined second portion of the second holding device is coupled to the displacement of a predetermined second portion of the first holding device.

[0063] In general, the combination of two or preferably three transport units can be intuitively imagined in such a way that a single segment can be raised or lowered relative to the remaining segments in the manner of a slice of cake.

[0064] In another preferred embodiment, the application device has a plurality of application elements, particularly application nozzles, which in each case are preferably assigned to the holding device and are particularly preferably adapted for and used to sterilize and / or apply a sterilizing medium to the inner surface of the plastic preform.

[0065] The device preferably has multiple application sections, which in each case can be displaced together with a corresponding part of the holding device relative to the axis of rotation. Particularly preferably, in each case, multiple such application sections are assigned to each transport unit, wherein at least one such application section is preferably assigned to each part of the corresponding holding device of each transport unit. Preferably, the application sections have the same shape or are constructed as identical components.

[0066] Therefore, preferably, at least one of the applying devices (in particular at least one of the applying segments described above) can be displaced along the axis of rotation. In this case, the movement of the device, i.e., in particular the movement of the applying segment, is preferably coupled to the movement of at least a portion of the holding device.

[0067] In another preferred embodiment, these application devices and / or application sections are preferably arranged above their assigned holding devices. In this way, plastic preforms transported upwards from the opening can be applied.

[0068] Particularly preferably, the transport equipment is arranged in a particularly enclosed housing.

[0069] Particularly preferably, the transport equipment and / or apparatus has a (central) supply unit for applying a sterilizing medium to the plastic preform. The sterilizing medium is particularly preferably hydrogen peroxide or peracetic acid.

[0070] Also preferably, the transport equipment and / or apparatus has a (central) radiation generating device, particularly a radiation source, for sterilizing the plastic preforms by radiation. The radiation is particularly preferably electronic radiation and / or ultraviolet radiation.

[0071] In another preferred embodiment, the device has a rotary dispenser. This rotary dispenser is used to dispense sterilization media from a stationary source to the corresponding carriers, particularly the individual application devices, wherein such transfer should also be possible, especially during the movement of the transport unit.

[0072] In another preferred embodiment, the device has a feed star or feed wheel for feeding plastic preforms into a transport device.

[0073] In another preferred embodiment, the device has an ejector star or ejector wheel for discharging plastic preforms from a transport device. Particularly preferably, the transport device is arranged in a housing together with the feed star and the ejector star.

[0074] In another preferred embodiment, the device has a plurality of carrier segments extending along a circular segmental line, which in each case are adapted and used to jointly support a plurality of holding devices. In this case, each carrier segment is preferably adapted and used to support one of the components of the aforementioned holding devices.

[0075] In another preferred embodiment, radiation from at least one radiation generating device, particularly a radiation source, is provided as electronic radiation and / or ultraviolet radiation and / or radiation from an applying device is applied via one, preferably multiple applying elements, particularly radiation fingers and / or surface radiators.

[0076] The device preferably includes at least one, and more preferably multiple, radiation generating devices, particularly an electronic radiator and / or an ultraviolet (UV) radiator.

[0077] Preferably, the application device is adapted to apply radiation to the plastic preform to sterilize it.

[0078] Sterilization of plastic preforms is preferably performed by an electron beam. In this case, the application device has at least one application element, particularly one, preferably multiple surface radiators, which are preferably arranged along the transport path of the plastic preform and preferably pointed towards its outer surface. At least one surface radiator is preferably fixed relative to the transport device, and the transport device is preferably adapted to sterilize from the outside, particularly the plastic preform.

[0079] In this configuration, the application device has at least one application element, particularly a radiating finger, preferably multiple radiating fingers, which can be introduced into the plastic preform, and is more preferably introduced into the plastic preform. Preferably, the radiating finger, preferably multiple radiating fingers, can move with a transport device, and more preferably, it moves with the transport device and / or the plastic preform. Preferably, the radiating finger is adapted and / or provides for internal sterilization, for which it can preferably be immersed into the interior of the plastic preform.

[0080] Sterilization is preferably performed in some steps.

[0081] Radiation is understood as a rod-like body of any desired shape that can preferably be inserted into a container opening, particularly an opening in a plastic preform.

[0082] Preferably, when sterilizing the plastic preform by radiation, the exterior and / or interior are sterilized / sterilized. In this case, the plastic preform is rotated about its longitudinal axis in front of / around the radiation generating device, such that all surface points of the exterior and / or interior of the plastic preform experience radiation as uniformly as possible in quality and quantity.

[0083] To enable the plastic preform to rotate about its longitudinal axis, it is recommended to integrate a single rotating mandrel, preferably multiple rotating mandrels, on which the plastic preform can be mounted, particularly from below. The mandrel rotates about its longitudinal axis, at least within the area of ​​the electronic source, to illuminate the housing of the plastic preform as uniformly as possible.

[0084] The application device preferably has multiple radiating fingers as application elements, which can be inserted into the plastic preform to apply radiation, particularly electronic radiation and / or ultraviolet radiation.

[0085] In each case, it is particularly preferred to provide an electron acceleration device and / or an exit window for electron beam emission, which is preferably made of titanium.

[0086] In another preferred embodiment, sterilization can be performed as external and / or internal sterilization, particularly on the same transport device, and / or external and / or internal sterilization can be performed on at least two, preferably multiple, different transport devices, particularly one after another in time and / or space.

[0087] Preferably, equipment treatment is applied, particularly to the outer surface of the sterilized plastic preform.

[0088] For this purpose, a surface radiator is particularly preferred, which directs radiation, especially electronic radiation and / or ultraviolet radiation, to the outer surface of the plastic preform. In this case, the surface radiator can be arranged on the housing, particularly on the device, such that the radiation irradiates the plastic preform through an opening in the housing.

[0089] Preferably, equipment treatment is applied, particularly to the inner surface of the sterilized plastic preform.

[0090] For this purpose, a radiation finger is particularly preferred, which directs radiation, especially electronic radiation and / or ultraviolet radiation, to the inner surface of the plastic preform. In this case, the radiation finger can be arranged on the housing, particularly the device, such that the radiation irradiates the plastic preform through an opening in the housing. For example, a radiation generating device, particularly an electronic radiator and / or an ultraviolet (UV) radiator, can be introduced into the container.

[0091] Particularly preferred is that both the outer and inner surfaces of the plastic preform are sterilized.

[0092] In this case, the application devices having application elements for external and / or internal sterilization can be designed together or separately from each other.

[0093] Preferably, the external and / or internal sterilization of the plastic preform can be carried out at the same time and place.

[0094] Particularly preferably, external and / or internal sterilization can be performed sequentially on the plastic preforms over time.

[0095] Particularly preferably, external and / or internal sterilization can be performed one position at a time on the plastic preform.

[0096] In this context, it is conceivable to perform external and / or internal sterilization on different transport and / or holding equipment.

[0097] Preferably, a flowable medium is applied to the plastic preform before irradiating its outer and / or inner surfaces. In particular, the plastic preform is preferably pre-cleaned with the flowable medium and then sterilized / sterilized by electronic and / or ultraviolet radiation.

[0098] Therefore, exceptionally good sterilization / sterilization results can be achieved.

[0099] Particularly preferably, each carrier segment carries at least three, preferably at least four, preferably at least five, preferably at least six, preferably at least eight, and preferably at least ten retaining devices. Particularly preferably, these retaining devices can be individually detached from the carrier segment and / or can be individually assembled onto the carrier segment.

[0100] The present invention also relates to a transport device for transporting plastic preforms or (plastic) containers along a circular transport path, wherein the transport device has a first transport unit rotatable relative to a rotation axis, having a plurality of first holding devices adapted in each case for holding the plastic preform or container, and the first holding devices are arranged equidistantly in a first plane perpendicular to the rotation axis.

[0101] Furthermore, the transport equipment has a second transport unit rotatable relative to the axis of rotation, which has a plurality of second holding devices, each of which is adapted and used to hold the plastic preform or plastic container, and the second holding devices are equidistantly arranged in a second plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation, wherein the second plane is offset relative to the first plane in the direction of rotation and wherein the offset of the second plane relative to the first plane in the direction of rotation is greater than the length of the plastic preform or container to be transported in that direction of rotation.

[0102] According to the present invention, the transport device includes at least one first lifting device adapted and used to displace a predetermined first portion of the first holding device in a direction of rotation relative to a predetermined second portion of the first holding device, and the transport device further includes a second lifting device adapted and used to displace a predetermined second portion of the first holding device in a direction of rotation relative to the predetermined first portion of the first holding device.

[0103] Particularly preferably, the transport equipment is designed in the manner described above. This means that the features of the transport equipment described above regarding the device can also be applied to the transport equipment described herein.

[0104] Preferably, the transport equipment is suitable for transporting plastic preforms and / or containers during a predetermined process, particularly sterilization. However, such a process can also be a heating process, rinsing process, inspection process, etc., of the plastic preforms.

[0105] Particularly preferably, the two lifting devices have electric drives. However, pneumatic or hydraulic drives, or drives by means of guide cams, are also conceivable.

[0106] The present invention also relates to a method for processing and, in particular, sterilizing single articles, especially plastic preforms or (plastic) containers, wherein a transport device transports the single article, in particular the plastic preform or (plastic) container, along a circular transport path, and at least one application device applies a flowable sterilizing agent and / or sterilizing radiation to the single article, in particular the plastic preform or plastic container, transported by the transport device.

[0107] Furthermore, the transport equipment has a first transport unit that can rotate relative to the axis of rotation, which has a plurality of first holding devices (or these holding devices arranged thereon), the first holding devices holding a single piece of cargo in each case, particularly a plastic preform or (plastic) container, and the first holding devices (especially in the circumferential direction) are arranged equidistantly in a first plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

[0108] Furthermore, the transport equipment has a second transport unit that can rotate and / or rotatably relative to the axis of rotation, which has a plurality of second holding devices that hold a single piece of cargo, particularly a plastic preform or (plastic) container, in each case. The second holding devices are equidistantly arranged in a second plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation (and particularly in a circumferential direction extending in that plane), wherein the second plane is offset relative to the first plane in the direction of the axis of rotation. Specifically, the two planes are parallel to each other.

[0109] According to the present invention, the transport device includes at least one first lifting device, which at least temporarily displaces the predetermined first portion of the first holding device in the direction of the rotation axis relative to a predetermined second portion of the first holding device.

[0110] Particularly preferably, the transport time for all individual items via the transport equipment is the same. This is important because, in this way, the exposure or sterilization time for all plastic preforms also remains the same.

[0111] Preferably, the rotation of the transport units is coupled to each other.

[0112] In another preferred embodiment, individual items, particularly plastic preforms and / or containers, are fed into the transport equipment in a feed plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

[0113] Furthermore, individual items, particularly plastic preforms or containers, are discharged from the transport equipment in the discharge plane. The axis of rotation is also perpendicular to this discharge plane. Particularly preferably, the feed plane and the defense plane coincide (substantially). This means that individual items, particularly plastic preforms or containers, are fed into the same plane or at the same height where they are discharged again.

[0114] In another preferred method, each plastic preform and / or each plastic container is transported at a transport angle greater than 360°, preferably greater than 720°. Therefore, a single item, particularly a plastic preform or container, is preferably transported for more than one turn, preferably more than two turns.

[0115] Each plastic preform or each container is displaced at least once along the axis of rotation in the first displacement direction and at least once along the axis of rotation in the second displacement direction opposite to the first displacement direction.

[0116] In another preferred method, each individual cargo, particularly each plastic preform and / or each container, is displaced at least twice along the axis of rotation in the first displacement direction. Transport equipment preferably loads individual cargo, particularly plastic preforms or containers, in this manner.

[0117] Particularly preferably, the displacement also occurs at least once, preferably at least twice, in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0118] In another preferred method, portions of plastic preforms and / or plastic containers arranged one after another in the transport direction are moved together along the axis of rotation. In another preferred method, plastic preforms or containers arranged one on top of another are moved together along the axis of rotation.

[0119] Therefore, preferably, in each case, at least one segment is displaced along the axis of rotation during the production or processing operation. However, preferably, only one segment is displaced along the axis of rotation at a predetermined time or time period.

[0120] In another preferred embodiment, the processing equipment has at least one transport device adapted for and used to change the distance between the continuous plastic preforms (also known as a pitch stretching star). In another preferred embodiment, the processing equipment has at least two transport devices adapted for and used to change the distance between the continuous plastic preforms.

[0121] Therefore, the processing equipment is preferably subdivided into multiple groups of processing elements, such as, in particular, processing nozzles, assigned to the holding equipment. These can be arranged on different transport units or in different sections. Preferably, there are at least four groups, more preferably at least six groups, and particularly preferably at least nine groups (especially at least three groups per transport unit).

[0122] In another preferred embodiment, a control device is provided, adapted to enable or disable a single transport unit. Thus, a single item, particularly a plastic preform, can be fed into only one or both transport units. In this way, the storage capacity of the transport unit can be varied.

[0123] In another preferred embodiment, the transport device has a sealing device that seals the transport device from a (non-sterile) environment. This could be a hydraulic seal, for example. A so-called waterlock could also be used for sealing. This type of waterlock preferably has a fixed circulation channel filled with water or another liquid, into which circulation vanes are immersed to achieve a seal.

[0124] In another preferred embodiment, the transport equipment is arranged in a clean room.

[0125] Preferably, the device has at least one sensor device adapted to detect at least one characteristic of the gaseous medium located in the processing chamber. This characteristic may be, for example, pressure, temperature, or the concentration of a sterilizing agent. Attached Figure Description

[0126] Further advantages and implementation methods are derived from the accompanying drawings.

[0127] in:

[0128] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of equipment used for producing plastic containers is shown;

[0129] Figure 2 An illustration of a transport device according to the present invention is shown; and

[0130] Figure 3 An illustration is shown to illustrate the method according to the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0131] Figure 1An apparatus 50 for producing plastic containers is schematically shown. This apparatus has a heating device 52 for heating plastic preforms 10. For example, this could be an infrared oven or a microwave oven. Reference numeral 54 indicates a transport device for feeding the heated plastic preforms into a processing device 1, which is a sterilization device. Preferably, this transport device 54 is a so-called pitch-stretching star, which can change the distance or spacing between the plastic preforms.

[0132] Reference numeral 1 indicates the processing equipment. Reference numeral 1a indicates the processing chamber in which the plastic preforms are processed, particularly sterilized. Reference numeral 2 indicates the aforementioned transport equipment, into which the plastic preforms are fed from the feeding device 62, and the sterilized plastic preforms are discharged from the feeding device 64.

[0133] Reference numeral 56 indicates another transport device, preferably again in a spaced-out star shape, which discharges sterilized plastic preforms. Therefore, this other transport device 56 is preferably adapted and used to change, in particular increase, the spacing between the transported plastic preforms.

[0134] Reference numeral 58 indicates forming equipment, such as, in particular, a blow molding machine, especially a stretch blow molding machine, which shapes a fed plastic preform into a plastic container.

[0135] The molding equipment is particularly preferably aseptic molding equipment, i.e., molding equipment with a cleanroom in which plastic preforms are formed to form plastic containers. The cleanroom is preferably configured as a channel surrounding the transport path of the plastic preforms.

[0136] Figure 2 A diagram of a transport device 2 according to the invention is shown. It has a first transport unit 22, which is rotatably arranged in a first plane E1 relative to the axis of rotation D. Reference numeral 24 indicates a second transport unit, which is also rotatably arranged in a second plane E2 relative to the axis of rotation D, and which is offset relative to the first plane E1 in the direction of the axis of rotation D.

[0137] Reference numeral 26 indicates a third transport unit, which is rotatably arranged in a third plane E3 relative to the axis of rotation D. In this case, the third plane E3 is offset relative to the first plane E1 and the second plane E2 in the direction of the axis of rotation.

[0138] The rotational movement of each transport unit 22, 24, 26 relative to the rotation axis is preferably coupled to each other.

[0139] The first transport unit 22 has a plurality of first holding devices 220, 222, and 224, each adapted and used to hold the plastic preform. More precisely, these are a first part 220, a second part 222, and a third part 224 of the first holding devices. These respective parts can be displaced together in the direction of the axis of rotation D, but relative to the other respective parts.

[0140] The second transport unit 24 has a plurality of second holding devices 240, 242, and 244, each adapted and used to hold the plastic preform. More precisely, this refers to the first part 240, the second part 242, and the third part 244 of the second holding devices. These corresponding parts of the holding devices may also be displaced together in the direction of the axis of rotation, but relative to the corresponding other parts.

[0141] The third transport unit 26 has a plurality of third holding devices 260, 262, and 264, each adapted and used to hold the plastic preform. More precisely, these are the first part 260, the second part 262, and the third part 264 of the third holding devices. These corresponding parts of the holding devices may also be displaced together in the direction of the axis of rotation D, but relative to the corresponding other parts.

[0142] Reference numeral 12 indicates a first lifting device. This is used to shift the first portion 220 of the first holding device disposed on the first transport unit 22, the first portion 240 of the second holding device disposed on the second transport unit 24, and the first portion 260 of the third holding device disposed on the third transport unit 26 in the direction of the rotation axis D, i.e., to raise or lower the rotation axis D.

[0143] Reference numeral 14 indicates a second lifting device. This is used to shift the second part 222 of the first holding device disposed on the first transport unit 22, the second part 242 of the second holding device disposed on the second transport unit 24, and the second part 262 of the third holding device disposed on the third transport unit 26 in the direction of the rotation axis D, i.e., to raise or lower the rotation axis D.

[0144] exist Figure 2 In the case shown, these corresponding second parts are lowered relative to the first part in the direction of the rotation axis D.

[0145] Reference numeral 16 indicates a third lifting device. This is used to shift the third part 224 of the first holding device, the third part 244 of the second holding device, and the third part 264 of the third holding device on the third transport unit 26 in the direction of the rotation axis D, i.e., to raise or lower the rotation axis D.

[0146] In this case, the first, second, and third parts are displaced together in the direction of the rotation axis. Reference numerals I-III denote the segments of the retaining device that are mutually displaceable.

[0147] Reference numerals 4b and 4c indicate two application devices for applying a flowable sterilizing agent and / or sterilizing radiation to a plastic preform (not shown) held by a holding device.

[0148] In this configuration, each transport unit 22, 24, 26 is preferably allocated several times, in this case, three application devices. Preferably, the number of application devices per transport unit corresponds to the number of segments.

[0149] Figure 3 The method according to the invention is illustrated. Five process scenarios AE are shown here, wherein process scenario AC relates to the operation of loading transport equipment 2 with plastic preforms 10a, 10b, and process scenarios D and E relate to unloading operations.

[0150] In process case A, the first set of plastic preforms 10a is fed into the transport device. In this case, these plastic preforms are held by the holding device 220 of the first part of the holding device of the first transport unit in each case. Reference numerals 4a and 4b show the application device, which is respectively assigned to the holding device 220.

[0151] In process scenario B, the holding device 220 is lifted by the lifting device 12, which in this case has a guide cam 12a, a guide roller 12b, and a carrier 12c that can be displaced in the vertical direction V. The application devices 4a and 4b are also raised together with the holding device.

[0152] In process case C, a further plastic preform 10b is fed, but now into the next segment where its holding device has not yet shifted along the axis of rotation. Here, the holding device 220 is held in the upper position. As can be seen from the upper part of the process case, the second set of plastic preforms 10b is now fed into the transport device.

[0153] In process scenario D, the holding device 220 is lowered again, allowing the initially fed plastic preform to be discharged from the transport device once more.

[0154] In process scenario E, a third group of plastic preforms is fed in.

[0155] It should be noted that all features described with reference to this method are also disclosed accordingly for this apparatus, which in particular means that the corresponding apparatus has a device suitable for and used to perform the corresponding method. Furthermore, the features described with reference to this apparatus can also be applied accordingly to one or more methods. This means that the method is performed using the corresponding apparatus features.

[0156] The applicant reserves the right to claim rights to all features essential to the invention disclosed in the application, whether individually or in combination, provided that such features are novel compared to the prior art. Furthermore, it should be noted that features that may be advantageous in themselves are also described in individual figures. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that a particular feature described in a figure may be advantageous even without employing other features in that figure. Additionally, those skilled in the art will recognize that advantages can also be derived by combining several features shown in a single figure or different figures.

Claims

1. An apparatus (1) for handling single items, the apparatus comprising a transport device (2) adapted for transporting the single item along a circular transport path, and at least one application device (4) adapted for sterilizing the single item transported by the transport device. in, The transport device (2) has a first transport unit (22) rotatable relative to a rotation axis (D), which has a plurality of first holding devices (220, 222, 224), each of which is adapted and used to hold a single piece of cargo, and the first holding devices are arranged equidistantly in a first plane (E1) perpendicular to the rotation axis (D). Furthermore, the transport device (2) has a second transport unit (24) rotatable relative to the axis of rotation (D), which has a plurality of second holding devices (240, 242, 244), each of which is adapted to hold a single piece of cargo, and the second holding devices are equidistantly arranged in a second plane (E2) perpendicular to the axis of rotation (D), wherein the second plane (E2) is offset relative to the first plane (E1) in the direction of the axis of rotation. Its features are, The transport device (2) includes at least one first lifting device (12) adapted and used to displace a predetermined first portion of the first holding device (220) in the direction of the rotation axis (D) relative to a predetermined second portion of the first holding device (222).

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, Its features are, The first lifting device is adapted and used to shift a predetermined first part of the second holding device (240) relative to a predetermined second part of the second holding device (242) in the direction of the rotation axis (D).

3. The apparatus according to at least one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The transport device (2) has a feeding area in which a single item can be fed into the transport device, wherein the single item can be fed in the rotation axis (D) perpendicular to the feeding plane, and the transport device (2) has a discharging area in which a single item can be discharged from the transport device, wherein the single item can be discharged in the rotation axis perpendicular to the discharging plane.

4. The apparatus according to at least one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The transport device (2) has a third transport unit (26) rotatable relative to the axis of rotation (D), which has a plurality of third holding devices (260, 262, 264), each of which is adapted and used to hold a single piece of cargo, and the third holding devices are arranged equidistantly in a third plane (E3) perpendicular to the axis of rotation (D), wherein the third plane (E3) is offset relative to the first plane (E1) and the second plane (E2) in the direction of the axis of rotation and / or the transport device (2) includes a second lifting device (14), which is adapted and used to displace a predetermined second portion of the first holding device (226) in the direction of the axis of rotation (D) relative to a predetermined first portion of the first holding device (222).

5. The apparatus according to at least one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The transport device (2) includes a third lifting device (16) adapted and used to displace a predetermined third portion of the first holding device (226) in the direction of the rotation axis (D) relative to a predetermined first portion of the first holding device (222) and relative to a predetermined second portion of the first holding device.

6. The apparatus according to at least one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The second lifting device is adapted and used to shift a predetermined second part of the second holding device (240) in the direction of the rotation axis (D) relative to a predetermined first part of the second holding device (242).

7. The apparatus according to at least one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The applying device has a plurality of applying elements, which are assigned to the holding device in each case.

8. The apparatus according to at least one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The device has multiple carrier segments extending along a circular segmental line, which in each case are adapted and used to jointly support multiple holding devices.

9. The apparatus according to at least one of the preceding claims, Its features are, Radiation from at least one radiation generating device is provided as electronic radiation and / or ultraviolet radiation and / or radiation from the applying device is applied via one, preferably multiple applying elements.

10. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, Sterilization can be performed as external and / or internal sterilization and / or external and / or internal sterilization can be performed on at least two different transport devices.

11. A transport device (2) for transporting plastic preforms or containers along a circular transport path, in, The transport device (2) has a first transport unit (22) rotatable relative to the axis of rotation (D), which has a plurality of first holding devices (220, 222, 224), each of which is adapted and used to hold a plastic preform or container, and the first holding devices are arranged equidistantly in a first plane (E1) perpendicular to the axis of rotation (D). Furthermore, the transport device (2) has a second transport unit (24) rotatable relative to the axis of rotation (D), which has a plurality of second holding devices (240, 242, 244), each of which is adapted and used to hold a plastic preform or container, and the second holding devices are equidistantly arranged in a second plane (E2) perpendicular to the axis of rotation (D), wherein the second plane (E2) is offset relative to the first plane in the direction of the axis of rotation, and wherein the offset of the second plane relative to the first plane is greater than the length of the plastic preform or container to be transported in the direction of the axis of rotation. Its features are, The transport device (2) includes at least one first lifting device (12) adapted and used to displace a predetermined first portion of the first holding device (220) relative to a predetermined second portion of the first holding device (222) in the direction of the rotation axis (D), and wherein, The transport device (2) includes a second lifting device (14) adapted and used to displace a predetermined second portion of the first holding device (226) in the direction of the rotation axis (D) relative to a predetermined first portion of the first holding device (222).

12. A method (1) for sterilizing a single item of goods, wherein, The transport equipment (2) transports a single item along a circular transport path, and at least one application device (4) applies a flowable sterilizing agent and / or sterilizing radiation to the single item transported by the transport equipment. The transport device (2) has a first transport unit (22) rotatable relative to the axis of rotation (D), which has a plurality of first holding devices (220, 222, 224) that hold a single item in each case, and the first holding devices are equidistantly arranged in a first plane (E1) perpendicular to the axis of rotation (D). The transport device (2) also has a second transport unit (24) rotatable relative to the axis of rotation (D), which has a plurality of second holding devices (240, 242, 244) that hold a single item in each case, and the second holding devices are equidistantly arranged in a second plane (E2) perpendicular to the axis of rotation (D), wherein the second plane (E2) is offset relative to the first plane in the direction of the axis of rotation. Its features are, The transport device (2) includes at least one first lifting device (12) which at least temporarily displaces a predetermined first portion of the first holding device (220) in the direction of the rotation axis (D) relative to a predetermined second portion of the first holding device (222).

13. The method according to the preceding claims, Its features are, The plastic preform or plastic container is fed into the transport device in the feed plane (Z) perpendicular to the axis of rotation, and the plastic preform or plastic container is discharged from the transport device in the discharge plane (A) perpendicular to the axis of rotation, and / or each plastic preform and / or each plastic container is transported at a transport angle greater than 360°, preferably greater than 720°.

14. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims, Its features are, Each plastic preform is displaced at least once along the rotation axis (D) in a first displacement direction and at least once along the rotation axis in a second displacement direction opposite to the first displacement direction, and / or each plastic preform and / or each plastic preform is displaced at least twice along the rotation axis in the first displacement direction.

15. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims, Its features are, Components of plastic preforms and / or plastic containers arranged one after another in the transport direction are displaced together along the axis of rotation and / or plastic preforms or containers arranged on top of each other are displaced together along the axis of rotation.

Images