Module for a container handling machine

Abstract

A module for a container handling machine, the module comprising a frame, a container inspection device and a container extraction device downstream of the inspection device, wherein the inspection device and the extraction device are fixed to the frame in a well-defined relative layout.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a module for a container processor according to independent claim 1. Background Technology

[0002] Container processing machines are largely known from existing technologies. Container processing machines typically consist of multiple components that need to be assembled and set up at the manufacturer's site. They then typically need to be shipped to the customer's site. During this process, it may be necessary to disassemble the assembled machine again, which could result in a reconfiguration at the customer's site, or a complete reconfiguration to ensure that the components are reliably arranged relative to each other and function as intended.

[0003] DE 10 2010 043 635 A1 discloses an apparatus for inspecting containers or similar articles (especially glass or plastic bottles), the apparatus having inspection modules mounted on a transport path, wherein the apparatus is designed as a modular inspection unit having a carrier capable of accommodating multiple inspection modules.

[0004] EP 1 449 778 A1 discloses an inspection module having various components (especially sensors).

[0005] Furthermore, US 6,525,333 B1 discloses a system and method for inspecting objects (e.g., containers or cans) with annular openings. This system and method use multiple cameras to capture grayscale images of arc-shaped sectors that collectively form a circular area within the opening. A processor is connected to the multiple cameras to accommodate the grayscale images and detects defects within the container based on contrast differences and grayscale intensity. This enables intelligent analysis of defects at a higher speed through qualitative inspection and quantitative measurement.

[0006] At the same time, since other components (such as switch cabinets or transport devices) can be arranged arbitrarily, it is difficult to arrange the components of the container handling machine in a space-saving and reliable manner.

[0007] Purpose of the invention

[0008] Based on existing technologies, the technical task to be addressed is to provide a module for container processors that can reduce setup workload while saving space as much as possible.

[0009] Solution

[0010] According to the present invention, this problem is solved by the module for a container processor according to claim 1 and the container processor according to claim 14. Advantageous improvements of the invention are included in the dependent claims.

[0011] The present invention provides a module for a container handling machine, the module including a frame, a container inspection device and a container extraction device located downstream of the inspection device, wherein the inspection device and the extraction device are fixed to the frame in a well-defined relative arrangement.

[0012] The frame can be a one-piece or multi-piece design (i.e., including multiple components). According to the understanding of the invention, the defined layout of the inspection device and the lead-out device refers to the layout of the inspection device and the lead-out device determined to ensure the functionality of the module when setting up or initially assembling the module including the frame, the inspection device, and the lead-out device. Therefore, a clearly defined layout refers to the layout of the inspection device and the lead-out device on the frame that enables them to perform their predetermined functions with the least possible error.

[0013] Specifically, the container handler can be a container handler for processing canned goods. In this regard, it can be configured such that: an inspection device is used to inspect the cans (especially empty cans), and an extraction device is used to extract these cans (especially also empty cans).

[0014] However, the present invention is not limited in terms of the applicability or construction of the inspection device and the extraction device.

[0015] The module may also include a media supply device arranged (particularly fixed to) the frame, which can apply a vacuum to the vacuum conveyor belt used for transporting the container (without needing to be fixed to the frame), which, while not mandatory, is advantageous.

[0016] This module helps reduce the setup workload for components (i.e., inspection devices and lead-out devices) because customers do not need to reconfigure them. At the same time, space is saved by systematically arranging the components on the frame.

[0017] After the component is brought out, an outtake test can be performed.

[0018] It can be configured such that the inspection device and / or the lead-out device are fixedly or detachably fixed to the frame.

[0019] The above design is particularly advantageous when the module needs to be disassembled into its individual components, especially when the inspection device and / or lead-out device need to be removed from the frame for subsequent transport. Specifically, a clearly defined layout can be documented, particularly by marking the frame or by means of connecting elements that remain fixed to the frame (such as fixing or centering pins and screw connections for securing the inspection device and / or lead-out device), so that during reassembly, the same orientation can be achieved without completely readjusting the relative positions of the inspection device and lead-out device.

[0020] However, it is preferable that both the inspection device and the extraction device are fixedly arranged on the frame, and in particular, cannot be disassembled in a non-destructive or tool-free manner.

[0021] In one embodiment, the frame includes column elements for assembling the modules. The column elements can be configured to ensure that the modules are at a ground clearance of, for example, 500mm, 400mm, or 300mm.

[0022] In one implementation, the container may be arranged to pass through an inspection module via a vacuum conveyor, which serves as a transport element.

[0023] The support elements may be, for example, legs (e.g., equipped with anti-slip and wear-resistant surfaces to enhance the stability of the module on the factory floor) so that the frame and module can be placed, for example, on the factory floor.

[0024] The column components can be designed to adjust the orientation of the frame, allowing it to adapt to uneven ground, for example, thus ensuring the stability of the module.

[0025] The frame may include a through opening for conveying the container from the extraction device.

[0026] Through these through openings, containers can pass through the extraction device to exclude them from further transport. For example, when an inspection device finds a container to be defective, it can be extracted. This implementation helps to further save space while enabling reliable extraction.

[0027] The module can be configured to include electrical or electronic components for controlling the inspection device and / or the extraction device. These electrical or electronic components may be, for example, a switch cabinet with electronic control equipment and / or may include at least a power supply for the inspection device and / or the extraction device. For example, electronic evaluation equipment required for the inspection device (e.g., image evaluation of container images captured by the inspection device) may also be provided as an electronic component, for example, in the switch cabinet. Similarly, electronic control equipment for the extraction device may also be included as an electronic component, either in the switch cabinet or separately. The electronic control equipment may be designed to (e.g., via corresponding information from a rotary encoder when transporting containers by a vacuum conveyor belt) track the container being inspected and control the extraction device (e.g., an extraction mechanism (such as a push rod) or a drive member of the extraction mechanism) to perform the extraction operation based on the container's position and the inspection results. This further compacts the module, thereby achieving the advantages of the invention.

[0028] Electrical or electronic components can be fixed in clearly defined locations on the frame. This simplifies the subsequent setup that module purchasers may need to perform.

[0029] In one embodiment, the frame includes connecting elements for connecting the frame to another component of the container processing unit. This embodiment also provides a more complex container processing device, but with a significantly reduced setup effort for the equipment purchaser.

[0030] Connecting elements can be used to adjust the relative layout between modules and components.

[0031] This implementation simplifies the setup process while still taking into account any deviations in the module installation area.

[0032] The module's size allows it to be transported using ISO containers.

[0033] This specifically means that the module's dimensions in its assembled state allow the entire module to be placed in an ISO container without damage. This will further reduce the setup workload for module buyers, as the entire module can be delivered as a unit, thus completely or largely eliminating the need for customers to perform setup again.

[0034] It can be configured such that the frame includes a transport containment for accommodating transport components of the transport device.

[0035] Transport containers can be, for example, for accommodating the grippers or forks of a forklift stacker, or openings into which they can be inserted. In this sense, a transport device is a transport device for transporting the module itself. This makes the module more compact and easier to transport.

[0036] In one embodiment, the module includes at least one of a second inspection device, a transport device for transporting the container, and a marking device for marking the container, these devices being arranged in a clearly defined manner relative to the inspection device and / or the extraction device. As previously mentioned, the container may specifically be a can, and therefore these devices may be specifically designed to interact with the can (inspect, extract, transport, mark).

[0037] Other or additional devices may also be considered. Specifically, an empty can inspection device for inspecting empty cans or parts thereof can be provided as a second inspection device (or as an inspection device). For example, the empty can inspection device can be designed to inspect the film on or within the can flange, inner wall, side wall, or bottom of the can. In side wall inspection, this may particularly include the inspection of printed content (e.g., date or country code, test can identification, color identification, matrix code) or decorative elements (printed images, labels, etc.).

[0038] The marking device may be specifically designed to apply a date or similar information related to the manufacture of the container (partially canned goods) to a portion of the container's surface (e.g., a portion of the sidewall or bottom). The marking device may be designed, for example, as a direct printing head or a laser marking device. The marking device may also include an inspection device for verifying the marking applied to the container. Alternatively, the inspection device may be separately located downstream of the marking device and may be selectively designed to inspect at least one other feature of the container in addition to the marking. For example, the inspection device may also be implemented as a second inspection device.

[0039] For example, a device for measuring the characteristics of the container's sliding coating (especially the sliding coating applied to the bottom of the container) can also be provided as a second inspection device.

[0040] The transport device can be designed, for example, as a vacuum conveyor belt, which holds the container on the conveyor belt by applying negative pressure so that the container can be transported safely.

[0041] In one implementation, each means for inspecting / testing at least one characteristic of the container (i.e., each inspection means and the testing means, for example) may be located upstream of the lead-out means on the module.

[0042] The additional devices can be detachably arranged on the frame, for example, by means of fixing or centering pins, screw connections and / or bayonet connections (the inspection devices and lead-out devices can be fixed on the frame, in particular in a manner that makes them impossible to remove without tools), so that they can be selectively installed or removed when necessary.

[0043] In this way, the advantages of compactness can be applied to other devices.

[0044] The inspection device may include two inspection elements for inspecting containers, which may be arranged on a common support of the inspection device.

[0045] This implementation method further compresses the inspection device itself, as different inspection tasks can be performed in essentially the same location, thereby reducing the necessary transport distance of containers within the inspection device.

[0046] It can be configured such that the inspection elements are arranged on a common support and designed to allow the container to be inspected from different directions.

[0047] The different directions may lie in a single plane, or in planes spaced apart from each other along the transport direction and perpendicular to the transport direction as the container passes through the inspection device, and these planes are located within the inspection element area.

[0048] The angle between the different directions can be set to 75° to 105°. Preferably, this angle is approximately 90°. This design allows for a more comprehensive inspection of the container.

[0049] The present invention also provides a container processing machine for processing containers (e.g., bottles, cans, or similar articles), the container processing machine including a module according to one of the above embodiments. In this context, the module can be configured to either constitute the container processing machine itself, or (viewed from the transport direction of the container as it passes through the container processing machine) be arranged upstream or downstream of other processing modules for processing containers (e.g., also including other modules corresponding to the foregoing embodiments). According to the present invention, container processing is not limited, but may include, for example, filling, sealing, labeling, printing, inspection, or similar operations.

[0050] The container handler can be configured as an inspection machine or a modular empty can inspection machine. In such a machine, the use of modules as described in any of the above embodiments is particularly advantageous. Attached Figure Description

[0051] Figure 1 This is an implementation method for the module.

[0052] Figure 2 This is an implementation method for sharing a support frame and inspection components. Detailed Implementation

[0053] Figure 1 One embodiment of a module 100 for a container processor is shown. The term "module" specifically refers to a portion of the container processor, which in some embodiments does not constitute the entire container processor but includes only or at least the components described below.

[0054] Module 100 includes a frame 103. This frame can be a one-piece or multi-piece design. If a multi-piece design is used, the frame can be formed from multiple tubular components (e.g., metal pipes) assembled together by screw connections, plug-in connections, snap-fit ​​connections, or similar connection methods. If the frame 103 is a one-piece design, at least one load-bearing structure can be formed from or include elements (e.g., welded pipes) that are fixedly connected (especially non-removable connections) to each other.

[0055] According to the understanding of the present invention, the material of frame 103 is not limited. Whether the frame is a one-piece or multi-piece design, the frame can include other elements. These elements can be detachably connected to the one-piece or multi-piece structure of the frame, for example, by screwing or snap-fitting.

[0056] Module 100 also includes at least one inspection device 101 and an extraction device 102.

[0057] Inspection device 101 is used to inspect containers, such as cans, bottles, or similar items. For example, the inspection device may include one or more cameras or other sensors, arranged sequentially along the transport direction, for inspecting the entire container or at least a portion thereof. Other means, such as suitable optics for emitting light from a light source, for example as diffuse illumination, toward the container, may be incorporated into the inspection device. In this regard, the inspection device can be functionally designed to inspect containers in any known manner.

[0058] The extraction device 102 is preferably located downstream of the inspection device 101, and the inspection device and the extraction device cooperate with each other to selectively control the extraction device to extract the containers based on the characteristics (such as defects, contamination or similar conditions) identified by the inspection device for any specific feature of the containers.

[0059] According to the present invention, the inspection device and the lead-out device are arranged relative to each other on the frame in a clearly defined position or in a clearly defined relative layout (determined by their respective clearly defined positions). A clearly defined position refers to the position of the lead-out device and the inspection device after the module has been installed, for example, at the manufacturer's location, i.e., after the relative layout of the lead-out device and the inspection device on the frame has been adjusted so that they can jointly perform their predetermined functions with the least possible error-free operation. At this point, the positions occupied by the inspection device and the lead-out device define their relative layout with each other and with the frame; this will be considered hereinafter as a clearly defined relative layout on the frame.

[0060] Securing the inspection device and the lead-out device may include, for example, screwing or clamping the inspection device and the lead-out device to a frame or a component of the frame. For example, the inspection device 101 may be fixedly connected to the frame by a suitable connecting element 111, but may optionally be detachably connected. The connecting element may be, for example, a corresponding connecting element on the frame and the inspection device, such as an elongated hole and screw on the frame or a frame component, the screw passing through a hole connected to the inspection device and / or the lead-out device to be inserted into the elongated hole on the frame and secured or fastened therein.

[0061] Other possible approaches exist, such as clamping the inspection device and the lead-out device, where the means for securing the inspection device and the lead-out device in their clearly defined relative arrangements need not be identical. For example, it can be configured such that the lead-out device is fixed or connected to the frame via a first detachable or non-detachable connection method, while the inspection device is fixed to the frame via a second method, wherein the first and second methods differ from each other. In particular, it can be configured such that the lead-out device is fixedly connected to the frame, or connected to the frame in a manner that prevents disassembly without damage, while the inspection device is detachably connected to the frame and is not damaged when the connection to the frame is released. The reverse is also possible.

[0062] In the illustrated embodiment, the frame may include at least one, preferably multiple, column elements 131. The column elements may be designed as supports or part of the supports of the frame. In particular, the column elements may be designed to be height- or length-adjustable, thereby allowing adjustment of the arrangement of the frame and the entire module 100. This allows the module to be positioned such that the inspection device and the lead-out device are preferably horizontal, even in uneven factory workshops, for example.

[0063] The column element can be designed to be continuously adjustable (e.g., in the form of a spindle), or preferably can be independently adjustable in multiple positions.

[0064] The module may also include electrical and / or electronic components 107 for controlling the inspection device and / or the lead-out device. These electrical or electronic components may be, for example, a switch cabinet, or simply a control unit, such as a computer including a corresponding processor and memory, designed to control at least one function of the inspection device and / or the lead-out device. Alternatively or supplementarily, the electrical or electronic components may form or include a power supply for the inspection device and / or the lead-out device.

[0065] Alternatively, the module can be configured to include multiple electrical and / or electronic components. At least one of these components can be assigned to the inspection device, and at least one other component can be assigned to the lead-out device. Thus, the function of the inspection device is at least partially controlled by this one component, while the lead-out device is controlled by this other component. Similar to the embodiments described above, the electrical or electronic components are arranged on the frame in a clearly defined relative layout. This means that after the module is installed, the component will occupy a specific position, and will remain in that position during further normal operation of the module.

[0066] To secure electrical and / or electronic components, suitable connecting elements 171 can be provided, the design of which may be similar to the embodiments described above. This can be configured such that the frame provides specific positions only for this electrical and / or electronic component, and these components cannot be otherwise secured to the frame. The predetermined positions can allow for substantially free arrangement of inspection devices and / or lead-out devices without obstruction by this electrical and / or electronic component. The arrangement of the electrical and / or electronic components on the frame, for example by placing them on the underside of the frame, can at least partially protect them from contamination by splashing media.

[0067] As an alternative or supplementary solution, the frame may also include one or more connecting elements 108 for connecting the frame to another component of the container processor. In particular, it may be configured such that a connection can be established with another frame, which, for example, also includes inspection and export devices, similar to the embodiments described above. This connecting element may advantageously be designed to form a detachable connection with other components of the container processor, so that after the initial setup of the entire container processor, the connection can be released, for example, for transporting the entire container processor, and the modules can be shipped to the customer, for example, one by one.

[0068] As an alternative or supplementary option, the frame may also include one or more transport receptacles 106 designed to accommodate transport elements of a transport device. The transport device is one capable of transporting the entire frame (preferably the entire module). The transport device may be a stacker crane, and the transport receptacle may be a receiving opening or receiving area through which the stacker crane's forks can pass. Other embodiments are also conceivable; for this purpose, the transport receptacle is limited to being able to interact with a suitable transport device. The overall structure of the transport receptacle and its method of attachment to the frame, for example, are preferably designed to withstand the full weight of the module. The transport receptacle may be detachably connected to the frame or non-detachably connected to the frame, for example, welded to the frame.

[0069] To minimize the module size (especially the module's spatial dimensions) and thus ensure flexible arrangement of the various components of the container handler, the module can be configured to include only the inspection device 101 and the extraction device 102. Alternatively, the module 101 can include at least one other device 104, particularly other inspection devices and / or other extraction devices and / or marking devices for marking containers that have passed through the inspection device or extraction device 102. The marking device can be, for example, a printing device, particularly a direct printing device that can apply markings to the outer surface of the container.

[0070] As an alternative or supplementary option, module 100 may also include a transport device for transporting the container, such as transporting it from inspection device 101 to extraction device 102. In a preferred embodiment, all these devices are fixed to the frame in a well-defined layout, wherein the term "well-defined layout" should be understood to be the same as in the foregoing embodiments.

[0071] In another embodiment, the frame may be configured such that it includes a through opening 122 for conveying a container from the extraction device 102. The through opening 122 may be located at a predetermined position on or within the frame. While it may be necessary to adjust the position of the extraction device 102 relative to the through opening 122 when setting up the module, in these embodiments, this adjustment is preferably small (e.g., only a few millimeters or centimeters in at least one direction) so that the extraction device can feed the extracted container into the through opening. Furthermore, a receiving portion for the extracted container may be provided in the region of the through opening 122, which may in particular be connected to the frame 103. In this case, the extracted container can be conveyed from the extraction device through the through opening 122 to the receiving portion, and then stored in the receiving portion.

[0072] In general, the module, including all the components and parts discussed in the foregoing embodiments, can be designed such that the dimensions (length, height, and width) of the fully assembled module are at most the same as the dimensions of a standard ISO container, so that the module can be placed in a standard ISO container and transported from the manufacturer to the customer in its assembled state.

[0073] Figure 2 Showing can be used with Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a portion of an inspection device used in combination with all embodiments. The diagram illustrates the relationship between the inspection device 200 and the transport device 220, which is capable of transporting the container 230 along the transport direction T. The container 230 may be, for example, a can, bottle, or similar item.

[0074] In the embodiment illustrated herein, the inspection device includes at least two inspection elements 212 and 213. These elements are used to inspect at least one portion of the container 230. Inspection elements 212 and 213 may be, for example, cameras.

[0075] exist Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, inspection elements 212 and 213 are arranged on a common support, so that the inspection elements can inspect the container 230 from different directions (which form an angle α with each other). These directions may, for example, coincide with the optical axis of the optics of the camera that serves as the inspection element, or essentially specify which direction the inspection elements 212 and 213 can inspect the container from.

[0076] The directions can, in principle, be arranged arbitrarily in space. However, preferred implementations are those in a common plane E1 or that define a plane E1 perpendicular to the transport direction T of the container in the transport device 220. To ensure that the container can be inspected as thoroughly as possible with the fewest possible inspection elements, the different directions can be configured to form angles α between each other of 75° to 105°, particularly 90°.

[0077] This reduces the necessary extension of the inspection device in the transport direction T, since the container can be inspected from different directions at the same location from the transport direction T. For example, the support 211 can be designed as a frame, or include a frame, to which the inspection elements can be detachably secured by appropriate connecting elements (such as bolted connections or clamping devices). As an alternative to the two inspection elements shown here, more inspection elements for inspecting the container can be arranged on the support 211. Alternatively, the inspection device 200 can be configured to include at least two supports, each including at least two inspection elements conforming to the described embodiment, wherein at least one inspection element of the first support inspects the container in a different direction than the inspection elements of the second support inspect the container in all directions. This avoids repeated inspection of certain areas of the container (or at least avoids multiple inspections of the container from the same direction), thereby further reducing the number of inspection elements and consequently reducing the space required for the inspection device.

Claims

1. A module for a container handling machine, the module comprising a frame, a container inspection device, and a container extraction device located downstream of the inspection device, wherein the inspection device and the extraction device are fixed to the frame in a well-defined relative arrangement.

2. The module according to claim 1, wherein the inspection device and / or the lead-out device are fixedly or detachably fixed to the frame.

3. The module according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the frame includes column elements for assembling the module.

4. The module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the frame includes a through opening for conveying the container from the extraction device.

5. The module according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the module includes electrical or electronic components for controlling the inspection device and / or the lead-out device.

6. The module of claim 5, wherein the electrical or electronic component is fixed to a predefined location on the frame.

7. The module according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the frame includes a connecting element for connecting the frame to another component of the container processor.

8. The module of claim 7, wherein the connecting element is used to adjust the relative layout between the module and the component.

9. The module according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the size of the module allows the module to be transported in an ISO container.

10. The module according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the frame includes a transport containment for accommodating transport elements of the transport device.

11. The module according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the module comprises at least one of a second inspection device, a transport device for transporting the container, and a marking device for marking the container, the devices being arranged relative to the inspection device and / or the lead-out device in a clearly defined manner.

12. The module of claim 11, wherein the inspection device comprises two inspection elements for inspecting containers, and the two inspection elements are arranged on a common support of the inspection device.

13. The module of claim 12, wherein the inspection element is arranged on the common support and designed to inspect the container from different directions, wherein optionally, the included angle between the different directions is 75° to 105°.

14. A container processing machine for processing containers such as bottles, cans or similar articles, said container processing machine comprising the modules according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. The container processing machine according to claim 14, wherein the container processing machine is an inspection machine or a modular empty can inspection machine.

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