Packing machine preform processing module

Abstract

A packaging machine preform processing module includes: a preform feed module including a preform feed guide rail; a spraying unit for spraying a disinfecting substance in the preform to visually cover the interior of the preform with the disinfecting substance; the drying oven is provided with a heating device and is used for heating the preformed part; and a drive device for moving the preform within the injection unit and then moving the preform along the heating device within the oven, the preform feed module comprising at least one neck heating module for heating the preform within the oven, the at least one neck heating module applies heat to a neck of the preform as the preform moves along the preform feed rail. According to the technical scheme provided by the utility model, the preforms are ensured to be subjected to consistent heating and sterilizing processes in the whole process, and the efficiency and the effectiveness of preparing the preforms for subsequent container manufacturing are improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model generally relates to the field of equipment and processes for packaging beverages in containers with very high sterilization levels, and more specifically, to a preform processing module for a packaging machine and a packaging machine having a preform processing module for preparing preforms for container manufacturing. Background Technology

[0002] The manufacture of aseptic containers and their packaging machines are known. In most cases, packaging machines include preform handling machines for feeding and heating the preforms before they are molded into containers. There is a continuous pursuit of improvement in the manufacture of aseptic containers and the equipment thereof. This invention primarily aims to provide an improved packaging machine for manufacturing aseptic containers that meet these and other requirements. Utility Model Content

[0003] According to an example embodiment, this utility model relates to a preform processing module for a packaging machine, used to prepare preforms according to container manufacturing, the preforms including a neck and a body, the preform processing module comprising:

[0004] [a] A preform feeding module including a preform feeding guide;

[0005] [b] A spraying unit for spraying a disinfectant into the preform to visibly cover the interior of the preform with the disinfectant;

[0006] [c] An oven having a heating device for heating the preform; and

[0007] [d] A driving device for moving the preform within the spraying unit, and then moving the preform along the heating device within the oven.

[0008] The preform feeding module includes at least one neck heating module, which applies heat to the neck of the preform as the preform moves along the preform feeding guide.

[0009] According to an example embodiment, this utility model relates to a packaging machine having a preform processing module configured to prepare preforms for container manufacturing. In an example embodiment, the preform processing module includes several components, such as a preform feeding module equipped with a feed guide, a spraying unit for applying a disinfectant substance inside the preform, a heating oven, and a drive mechanism to facilitate the movement of the preform through the spraying unit and into the oven. In an example embodiment, the preform feeding module is characterized by at least one neck heating module that applies heat to at least the neck of the preform as it travels along the feed guide.

[0010] In an example embodiment, the neck heating module may utilize a UV neck heating module. In an example embodiment, the UV neck heating module is equipped with one or more UV lamps positioned to focus on the neck of the preform. In an example embodiment, the configuration ensures that the UV lamps are concentrated on the neck region. In an example embodiment, at least one lamp is configured to extend longitudinally along the length of the preform feed guide, thereby optimizing the exposure of the preform to UV light and the heat generated therefrom.

[0011] In an example embodiment, the UV lamp is positioned approximately 5 cm from the neck of the preform. This close proximity improves the efficiency of the sterilization and heating processes, ensuring the neck is adequately treated as it passes through the module. Pre-treating the preform by UV heating before applying the disinfectant reduces condensation on the neck of the preform, which helps maintain the integrity of the sterilization process and eliminates the possibility of an "orange peel" effect on blow-molded preforms.

[0012] In an example embodiment, the module may include a tunnel enclosing the preform feed rail, which provides a controlled environment for the preform as it moves along the feed module. In this example embodiment, the tunnel houses both the preform feed rail and the heating module, ensuring that the preform undergoes a consistent heating and sterilization process throughout its travel. In this example embodiment, the construction of the preform handling module emphasizes the efficiency and effectiveness of preparing preforms for subsequent container manufacturing.

[0013] According to another example, the present invention relates to a packaging machine having a preform processing module for preparing preforms for container manufacturing. The preform processing module includes a spraying unit, an oven with a heating device, and a drive unit. The spraying unit is configured to spray a disinfecting substance into the preform, thereby visibly covering the interior of the preform with the disinfecting substance.

[0014] The oven and the heating device heat the preform, and the drive device moves the preform inside the spraying unit, and then moves the preform along the heating device inside the oven. In an example embodiment, the drive device moves the preform from upstream or inlet to downstream or outlet of the heating device, where the preform is visibly covered by the disinfectant at the upstream or inlet and visibly uncovered at the downstream or outlet. Therefore, as it moves through the oven, the preform is exposed to the heating device, causing the disinfectant therein to evaporate.

[0015] In an example embodiment, the drive device operates along a first axis X1 and then along a second axis X2 parallel to the first axis X1, wherein the heating device includes a first heating device arranged along a portion of the first axis X1, and wherein a second heating device is arranged along a portion of the second axis X2.

[0016] In an example embodiment, the first heating device evaporates at least a portion of the disinfectant material on the preform, such that the preform is visibly covered before the first heating device and visibly less covered after the first heating device.

[0017] In an example embodiment, the first heating device does not evaporate all the material so that the preform is not visibly uncovered after the first heating device.

[0018] In an example embodiment, the second heating device evaporates the material on the preform so that the preform is visibly covered at the inlet end of the second axis X2 and visibly uncovered at the outlet end of the second axis X2.

[0019] In an example embodiment, the second heating device evaporates the material on the preform so that the preform is visibly covered at the inlet end of the second axis X2 and visibly uncovered at the outlet end of the second axis X2.

[0020] In an example embodiment, the first heating device evaporates all the material so that nothing remains visible on the preform after the first heating device is applied.

[0021] In an example embodiment, the drive device has a U-shaped turn between the first axis X1 and the second axis X2 to transport the preform from the first heating device to the second heating device.

[0022] In an example embodiment, the U-shaped turn is divided into three segments, and the preform undergoes post-heating evaporation during its movement along at least one of the segments of the U-shaped turn.

[0023] In an example embodiment, the preform undergoes post-heat evaporation within the U-turn so that it changes from being visibly less covered to being visibly uncovered within the first segment of the U-turn.

[0024] In an example embodiment, the preform undergoes post-heat evaporation within the U-turn so that it changes from being visibly less covered to being visibly uncovered within a second segment of the U-turn.

[0025] In an example embodiment, the preform undergoes post-heat evaporation within the U-turn so that it changes from being visibly less covered to being visibly uncovered within the third segment of the U-turn.

[0026] In an example embodiment, the driving device moves the preform from the outlet end of the first heating device to the inlet end of the second heating device. At the outlet end of the first heating device, the preform is still visibly covered, while at the inlet end of the second heating device, the preform is visibly uncovered.

[0027] In an example embodiment, the driving device moves the preform from the outlet end of the first axis X1 to the inlet end of the second axis X2. At the outlet end of the first axis X1, the preform is still visibly covered, while at the inlet end of the second axis X2, the preform is visibly uncovered.

[0028] In an example embodiment, the preform processing module further includes a preform feeding module that brings the preform to the spraying module.

[0029] In an example embodiment, the drive device takes the shape of a rotating star wheel at the spray unit stage and at least one base wheel at the oven stage.

[0030] The technical solution of this utility model ensures that the preform undergoes a consistent heating and sterilization process throughout its entire process and improves the efficiency and effectiveness of preparing preforms for subsequent container manufacturing. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1 This is a top plan view of a packaging machine and a preform processing module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A side plan view of a preform feeding module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 3 for Figure 2 End view plan of the preform feeding module.

[0034] Figure 4A The diagram shows a side plan view illustrating the sequence of operations of a preformed component according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, through the preformed component feed module and receiving a certain dose of disinfectant material.

[0035] Figure 4B for Figure 4A A detailed view of the neck of the preform, showing that no condensation droplets are present on the neck.

[0036] Figure 4C A side plan view showing the known operating sequence of the preform passing through the preform feed module and receiving a dose of disinfectant.

[0037] Figure 4D for Figure 4C A detailed view of the neck of the preform, showing the presence of condensed droplets on the neck.

[0038] Figure 5 According to an example embodiment of the present invention, along Figure 1 The corresponding parts of the packaging machine and preform processing module are viewed through the preform.

[0039] Figure 6 According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, along Figure 1 The corresponding parts of the packaging machine and preform processing module are viewed through the preform.

[0040] Figure 7 According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, along Figure 1 The corresponding parts of the packaging machine and preform processing module are viewed through the preform.

[0041] Figure 8According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, along Figure 1 The corresponding parts of the packaging machine and preform processing module are viewed through the preform.

[0042] Figure 9 According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, along Figure 1 The corresponding parts of the packaging machine and preform processing module are viewed through the preform. Detailed Implementation

[0043] Example embodiments of this utility model relate to an apparatus or packaging machine 1 for manufacturing sterile containers, and, for example, to a preform processing module 5 for preparing preforms 11 for container manufacturing. Figure 1 The packaging machine 1, including the preform processing module 5, is shown.

[0044] In an example embodiment, the packaging machine 1 described herein includes a preform processing module 5 connected to, for example, a blow molding apparatus 100, such that a preform 11 can be prepared by the preform processing module 5 and directly proceed to container manufacturing, wherein the preform 11 is provided to the blow molding apparatus 100 to be formed into a sterile container by blow molding or stretch blow molding. In an example embodiment, the packaging machine 1 may include additional equipment, such as filling and sealing equipment (not shown) for filling and capping sterile containers and / or labeling equipment (not shown) for decorating sterile containers. Therefore, according to the example embodiment, the packaging machine 1 may include the preform processing module 5, the blow molding apparatus 100, and the filling and sealing equipment and / or labeling equipment (not shown).

[0045] The preform feeding module 10 is configured to bring the preform to the spraying module or spraying unit 18 to spray a disinfectant into the preform and visibly cover the interior of the preform with the disinfectant. In an example embodiment, the disinfectant may include hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), or, for example, another desired disinfectant if required. In an example embodiment, the preform feeding module 10 includes a guide rail 12 positioned near the drive unit 13 for feeding and conveying the preform 11 to receive a dose of disinfectant at the spraying unit 18.

[0046] In exemplary embodiments, the spraying unit 18 can be configured to spray or discharge disinfectant material from it in various configurations and forms. According to an exemplary embodiment, the spraying unit 18 can be configured to discharge cold vapor or mist of droplets of disinfectant material, such that a substantially uniform film of disinfectant material condensate is deposited on at least the inner wall of the preform 11 to be sterilized by condensation. According to another exemplary embodiment, the spraying unit 18 can be configured to discharge hot vapor of droplets for condensation at least on the inner wall of the preform 11. According to another exemplary embodiment, the spraying unit 18 can be an ultrasonic vaporizer for discharging a large number of cold droplets in vapor form. According to another exemplary embodiment, the spraying unit 18 is configured to spray a mixture of air and cold droplets of disinfectant material deposits. Preferably, due to the presence of the neck heating module H1 (described in more detail below), the spraying unit 18 and the discharge of disinfectant material (regardless of its form) substantially eliminate the possibility of large condensate droplets forming on the inner wall of the preform 11 or near the neck portion 11a.

[0047] In an example embodiment, the drive unit 13 of the preform feeding module 10 includes a rotating star wheel 14 for feeding the preform 11 to the spray unit 18 to receive a dose of disinfectant. Thereafter, the preform 11 enters one by one via a chain 24 on a main shaft connected between base wheels 22 of an oven 20 including heating devices 26a, 26b. The chain 24 moves along the oven 20, thereby exposing the preform 11 connected thereto to the heating devices 26a, 26b.

[0048] In an example embodiment, the chain 24 takes a cyclic path around the two base wheels 22. In an example embodiment, at least one of the base wheels 22 may be configured to drive the chain 24 to cyclically move around it, or, for example, the chain 24 itself may be otherwise driven to cyclically move around the base wheel 22. In an example embodiment, the drive device 23 may be in the form of one or both base wheels 22, or, for example, the drive device 23 may be configured to otherwise cause displacement of the chain 24.

[0049] In an example embodiment, once the preform 11 is sprayed with a sterilizing substance and connected to the chain 24, the preform 11 moves through the oven 20, first along a first axis X1 in a first direction, and then along a second axis X2 in a second direction. In an example embodiment, the first direction is opposite to the second direction. In an example embodiment, the first axis X1 and the second axis X2 are parallel to each other and spaced apart. In an example embodiment, a first heating device 26a is disposed along the first axis X1, and a second heating device 26b is disposed along the second axis X2.

[0050] refer to Figure 2-4DThe preform feeding module 10 includes a housing 6 that defines a tunnel 7 extending therethrough. In an example embodiment, a guide rail 12 for feeding and conveying the preform 11 along it is mounted within the tunnel 7 to provide an enclosed receiving space for the preform 11 to travel to the injection unit 18.

[0051] like Figure 2-3 As depicted, the preform feed module 10 includes at least one neck heating module H1 for applying heat to the neck of the preform 11 as it moves along the preform feed guide 12. According to an example embodiment, the at least one neck heating module H1 includes a UV neck heating module UVH1, and for example, the UV neck heating module UVH1 includes one or more UV lamps 200 connected thereto. In the example embodiment, the UV neck heating module UVH1 and its one or more lamps 200 are positioned to concentrate on the neck of the preform 11, and preferably sterilize (via ultraviolet radiation) and heat at least the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 as it moves along the preform feed guide 12 through the tunnel 7. According to the example embodiment, the UV neck heating module UVH1 is mounted above the preform feed guide 12.

[0052] like Figure 2-3 As depicted, at least one lamp 200 of the UV neck heating module UVH1 extends longitudinally along the length or extension of the preform feed guide 12. According to an example embodiment, at least one UV lamp 200 of the UV neck heating module UVH1 operates at a temperature of approximately 100 degrees Celsius and is of the type in which the wavelength emitted during its operation is between approximately 100 and 280 nanometers, for example, commonly classified as UV-C radiation. UV-C is well known as “short-wave” UV radiation and is considered the most effective type of UV radiation for killing bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. Therefore, the UV neck heating module UVH1 provides a dual function by simultaneously emitting UV-C radiation toward at least the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 and its environment (e.g., tunnel 7).

[0053] According to some example embodiments, at least one UV lamp 200 can operate at a temperature of approximately 30-60 degrees Celsius and, for example, remain of UV-C type, such that the wavelength emitted from it during its operation is between approximately 100-280 nanometers. According to an example embodiment, at least one lamp 200 is positioned at a distance L from the neck portion 11 of the preform 11. According to one example embodiment, the distance L is approximately 5 centimeters. According to other example embodiments, the distance L can be selected as needed. According to an example embodiment, the distance L is sufficiently close to the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 such that UV-C radiation can be adequately exposed to the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 as it moves along the guide rail 12.

[0054] According to example embodiments, at least one UV lamp 200 as disclosed herein can be of the type that operates at a temperature of approximately 30-100 degrees Celsius while maintaining UV-C type, such that the wavelength emitted from it during its operation is between approximately 100-280 nanometers. According to some example embodiments, two or more UV lamps 200 are powered by a UV neck heating module UVH1, and each lamp operates, for example, at a relatively similar temperature. According to other example embodiments, two or more UV lamps 200 are powered by a UV neck heating module UVH1, and each lamp operates, for example, at relatively dissimilar temperatures.

[0055] According to an example embodiment, at least one lamp 200 is multifunctional by providing UV-C wave output and a calculated amount of heat, for example, to allow at least the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 to be sterilized by exposure to UV-C radiation as the preform passes through tunnel 7, and for example, at least some of the heat energy, for example, a sufficient amount of heat energy, is absorbed by at least the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 to adequately heat the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 and prevent the formation of condensate droplets on the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 when the disinfectant is applied by spray unit 18. At least, the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 is sterilized and at least partially heated as it moves through tunnel 7 of preform feed module 10. According to some example embodiments, by at least partially heating the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 before receiving a dose of disinfectant solution from spray unit 18, the risk of forming condensate droplets that are too large to produce an "orange peel" effect is greatly reduced, even if not completely eliminated.

[0056] According to an example embodiment, at least partial or preferential heating of the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 (as it moves through the preform feed module 10) accelerates its sterilization. For example, applying a dose of disinfectant to the at least partially heated neck portion 11a causes the neck portion 11a to be sterilized immediately. Thereafter, the sterilized neck portion 11a is connected to a chain 24 that allows the preform 11 to move through an oven 20, wherein the preform 11 first moves along a first axis X1 in a first direction and then along a second axis X2 in a second direction. The remaining portion of the preform 11 is heated and sterilized within the oven 20 before being provided to the blow molding apparatus 100 for formation into a sterile container by blow molding or stretch blow molding. Therefore, according to the example embodiment, the preform 11 is configured to undergo a multi-stage sterilization process by first heating and sterilizing its neck portion 11a at least partially before entering the oven 20, and then sterilizing the remaining portion of the preform 11 as it passes through the oven 20. Preferably, the multi-stage sterilization process suitably causes the sterilizing substance to condense into a vapor film (without forming condensate droplets C that are too large to produce an "orange peel" effect) and immediately sterilizes the neck portion 11a of the preform 11. For example, when the neck portion 11a is at least partially heated, the sterilizing substance is immediately activated upon contact with the neck portion 11a. Subsequently, as the preform 11 moves through the oven 20, the remaining portion of the preform 11 is heated and sterilized, while the pre-sterilized neck portion 11a remains substantially protected from excessive exposure to the heat in the oven 20, for example, so that the neck portion 11a remains structurally identical without unintentional dimensional deformation.

[0057] like Figure 3As shown, according to an example embodiment, the housing 6 of the preform feed module 10 includes a UV neck heating module UVH1 for outputting ultraviolet (UV-C) radiation and heat energy toward the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 as it moves along the preform feed guide 12. According to the example embodiment, with the UV neck heating module UVH1 disposed on the upper side of the housing 6, one or more additional UV neck heating modules UVH2, UVH3 may optionally be disposed along one or more other portions of the housing 6 and / or its tunnel 7. According to the example embodiment, an optional second UV neck heating module UVH2 may be disposed on a first lateral side of the housing 6, and a third UV neck heating module UVH3 may be disposed on a second lateral side of the housing 6. According to the example embodiment, ultraviolet radiation LW is generated by at least one lamp 200 of at least the UV neck heating module UVH1, said at least one lamp 200 being configured to project toward the neck 11a of each preform 11 moving along the preform feed guide 12. Furthermore, heat generated from at least one lamp 200 (e.g., heat generated by its electrical operation and inefficiencies) and ultraviolet radiation LW generated therefrom are emitted or output from at least the UV neck heating module UVH1 in a direction toward the neck portion 11a of the preform 11. Therefore, as described in more detail below, the neck heating module H1, or, for example, the UV neck heating module UVH1 according to the exemplary embodiment, can influence the amount of temperature change (∆T) of the preform as it passes through the preform feed module 10.

[0058] refer to Figure 2 Furthermore, according to one example embodiment, the preform feed guide 12 is affected and heated to a certain extent due to exposure to and proximity to the UV neck heating module UVH1. Additionally, the UV neck heating module UVH1 affects and heats the environment of the tunnel 7, which limits the tunnel temperature T. tunnel According to one example embodiment, at least one lamp 200 of the UV neck heating module UVH1 operates at a temperature of approximately 100 degrees Celsius. Therefore, when powered on and emitting UV-C radiation, the temperature of at least one lamp 200 is approximately 100 degrees Celsius. And typically, according to the example embodiment, the surface temperature of the lamp 200 is 100 degrees Celsius.

[0059] According to the example embodiment, the ambient temperature T around the preform feed module 10 is... ambient The temperature is approximately 20 degrees Celsius, and the tunnel temperature T in tunnel 7 is... tunnel Between approximately 25 and 45 degrees Celsius. According to one example embodiment, the UV neck heating module UVH1 includes three lamps 200, each operating at 100 degrees Celsius, with the ambient temperature T around the preform feed module 10 being... ambientThe temperature is 20 degrees Celsius, and the tunnel temperature T in tunnel 7 is... tunnel The temperature is approximately 35 degrees Celsius. According to another example embodiment, the UV neck heating module UVH1 includes three lamps 200, each operating at 60 degrees Celsius, and the ambient temperature T around the preform feed module 10 is... ambient The temperature is 20 degrees Celsius, and the tunnel temperature T in tunnel 7 is... tunnel The temperature is approximately 28 degrees Celsius. Preferably, the UV neck heating module UVH1 and its bulb can be selected as needed to achieve and maintain the desired parameters of the preform feed module 10. According to example embodiments and as described above, at least one UV lamp 200 as disclosed herein can be of the type that operates at a temperature of approximately 30-100 degrees Celsius while maintaining UV-C type, such that the wavelength emitted from it during its operation is between approximately 100-280 nanometers. For example, when two or more UV lamps 200 are powered by the UV neck heating module UVH1, each lamp can be configured to operate at a relatively similar temperature, or, for example, each lamp can operate at a relatively dissimilar temperature. According to other example embodiments, at least two UV lamps 200 can operate at relatively similar temperatures, while one or more other UV lamps can operate at another temperature greater than or less than the temperature of the at least two UV lamps 200.

[0060] In the example embodiment, the temperature of guide rail 12 is measured after approximately 30 minutes of continuous production. Figure 2 Moving from right to left, the temperature is measured at five locations along guide rail 12, for example, to define a first guide rail temperature Tr1, a second guide rail temperature Tr2, a third guide rail temperature Tr3, a fourth guide rail temperature Tr4, and a fifth guide rail temperature Tr5. According to an example embodiment, the first guide rail temperature Tr1 is measured to be approximately 33 degrees Celsius, the second guide rail temperature Tr2 is measured to be approximately 36 degrees Celsius, the third guide rail temperature Tr3 is measured to be approximately 37 degrees Celsius, the fourth guide rail temperature Tr4 is measured to be approximately 40 degrees Celsius, and the fifth guide rail temperature Tr5 is measured to be approximately 61 degrees Celsius. Therefore, the heat emitted from the at least one lamp 200 directly affects the temperature T of the tunnel 7. tunnel This further affects the temperature of the guide rail 12 and at least the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 moving along it. According to one example embodiment, the temperature T of the tunnel 7... tunnelThe temperature of the guide rails (Tr1-Tr5) causes the temperature of the neck portion 11 of the preform 11 to rise, for example, by at least 0.5 degrees Celsius. As described below, according to an example embodiment, the preform feed module 10 causes the temperature change of the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 to be in the range of approximately 0.5-25 degrees Celsius, for example, in the range of approximately 5-17 degrees Celsius according to one example embodiment, in the range of approximately 10-20 degrees Celsius according to another example embodiment, and in the range of approximately 1-4 degrees Celsius according to yet another example embodiment.

[0061] According to example embodiments, the duration for which the preform 11 moves along the guide rail 12 of the module 10 before reaching the injection unit 18 is typically between 1 and 10 seconds, for example, between approximately 2 and 6 seconds according to some example embodiments. Therefore, although the preform 11 is not kept exposed to the environment within the tunnel 7 for more than 10 seconds, it is precisely the exposure experienced by each preform 11 during its movement through the feed module 10 and its tunnel 7 that causes the temperature of its neck portion 11a to rise. Furthermore, the temperatures Tr1-Tr5 of the guide rail 12 can also affect the amount of temperature change (∆T) of the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 moving along it, for example, such that conduction occurring between the guide rail 12 and the neck portion 11a results in at least a certain amount of heat absorption affecting said temperature change (∆T).

[0062] According to some example embodiments, the preform 11 and its neck portion 11a may be heated to a greater extent, for example, during an abnormal situation such as machine downtime or when the dwell time of the preform 11 and its neck portion 11a exceeds the time span of the preform 11 moving through the tunnel 7 (typically between 1 and 10 seconds). Therefore, according to some example embodiments, the amount of temperature change of the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 can be in the range of approximately 10-60 degrees Celsius, for example, in the range of approximately 20-50 degrees Celsius according to one example embodiment, and in the range of approximately 30-40 degrees Celsius according to another example embodiment.

[0063] Figures 4A-4B The diagram illustrates the sequence of operations in which the preform 11 moves along the feed guide 12 through the preform feed module 10 until it is presented to the spray unit 18 to receive a specific dose of disinfectant. It also shows the state of the preform 11 before it enters the main shaft chain 24 one by one. Figure 4A As shown, when the preform 11 moves along the guide rail 12 of the preform feed module 10, the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 is exposed to the neck heating module H1 (e.g., UV neck heating module UVH1).

[0064] According to an example embodiment, the preform 11 initially enters the preform feed module 10 at a neck preform temperature T1, and, for example, thereafter the neck portion 11a is exposed to a neck heating module H1 within the preform feed module 10, causing the preform 11 to exit the preform feed module 10 at a neck preform temperature T2 and be presented to the spray unit 18. According to an example embodiment, the surface temperature of the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 is measured before entering the preform feed module 10 and again upon presentation to the spray unit 18 before being sprayed with a disinfecting substance. Therefore, according to the example embodiment, while edge heating of the entire preform 11 is possible, preferential heating of the neck portion 11a of each preform and therein is preferred.

[0065] According to the example embodiment, the neck preform temperature T2 is greater than the neck preform temperature T1. According to the example embodiment, the temperature change (∆T) between the neck preform temperatures T1 and T2 can be between approximately 0.5 and 25 degrees Celsius, for example, at least greater than or equal to approximately 0.5 degrees Celsius. For example, according to the example embodiment, T1 is approximately equal to the ambient temperature T. ambient Furthermore, T2 is at least about 0.5 degrees Celsius greater than T1. According to one example embodiment, T1 can be in the range of approximately 18-30 degrees Celsius, while T2 can be in the range of approximately 18.5-45 degrees Celsius. According to another example embodiment, T1 is approximately equal to the ambient temperature T. ambient T2 is higher than the ambient temperature T ambient Approximately 5-15 degrees Celsius. According to other example embodiments, the amount of temperature change (∆T) can be selected as needed, for example, so that the temperature T2 of the neck portion 11a is at least partially heated to mitigate any risk of forming condensed droplets that are too large to produce an "orange peel" effect. Compared to known operating sequences, such as... Figures 4C-4D As described, the temperature change (∆T) is negligible (e.g., ∆T=0), so the neck portion 11a (and its inner surface) of the preform 11 is more likely to form condensed droplets C that are too large to produce an "orange peel" effect.

[0066] According to one example embodiment, an exhaust duct 300 and a blower (not shown) may be provided for each UV neck heating module, and the blower may be adjusted as needed to meet the desired internal temperature of the tunnel 7. For example, a feedback loop may be provided, wherein the desired internal temperature of the tunnel can be maintained by enabling or disabling the blower. According to the example embodiment, when temperature T tunnel When the temperature is higher than expected, the activation of the blower causes excess hot air from tunnel 7 to be extracted / vacuumed out of tunnel 7. When temperature T... tunnelWhen the temperature is below the desired level, the blower remains in a stopped state, thereby eliminating the need for excessive hot air to be extracted / vacuumed from tunnel 7, so that the temperature T tunnel It can rise to the desired temperature.

[0067] According to the example embodiment, one or more sensors, thermocouples, recorders, thermostats, or other air temperature measuring instruments may be provided to obtain the real-time temperature T of tunnel 7. tunnel For example, to maintain a desired internal temperature therein as needed. According to an example embodiment, a controller or other electronic computing device may be configured to measure the temperature T of tunnel 7 in real time. tunnel One or more temperature sensors are integrated. Once tunnel 7 has been set to the desired temperature T... tunnel The air temperature measuring instrument can monitor its temperature (in real time), and the blower can be adjusted (enabled / disabled) as needed to maintain tunnel 7 at the set temperature T. tunnel .

[0068] According to an example embodiment, to ensure that the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 is at least partially heated during its passage along the preform feed module 10, one or more auxiliary sensors or measuring devices may be implemented to measure the temperature of the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 when it is presented to the spray unit 18 (and before the application of the disinfectant solution) to confirm that it has been heated during passage through the tunnel 7. According to some example embodiments, the temperature of the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 is measured before (or immediately upon its beginning of movement along the guide rail 12 and through the tunnel 7) the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 moves along the guide rail 12 and through the tunnel 7. Therefore, according to an example embodiment, the temperatures T1 and T2 of the neck portion 11a of each preform 11 can be measured and monitored in real time during operation, approximately before (e.g., T1) and after (e.g., T2) its movement along the guide rail 12 and through the tunnel 7. Therefore, partially heating the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 in the preform feed module 10 accelerates the pre-sterilization of the neck portion 11a when a certain dose of disinfectant is applied. For example, according to an exemplary embodiment, the pre-sterilization of the neck portion 11a is accelerated at the moment the disinfectant initially contacts the neck portion 11a. Furthermore, due to the temperature T2 of the neck portion 11a, the disinfectant condenses into a vapor film thereon, thereby completely eliminating the risk of forming condensate droplets C that are too large to produce an "orange peel" effect. In this way, the sterilization of the preform 11 is streamlined and segmented, while avoiding known adverse consequences such as the "orange peel" effect.

[0069] According to example embodiments, sensors or measuring devices for obtaining temperature measurements in real time can be provided in various forms. According to one example embodiment, one or more wireless infrared cameras can be provided to detect and visualize thermal radiation emitted from the preform 11. According to other example embodiments, one or more other wireless measuring technologies, thermal imaging systems, laser emitting systems, etc., can be provided to monitor the temperature of the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 in real time as the preform 11 is presented to the spray unit 18 (and before receiving the sterilizing material). Therefore, according to example embodiments, one or more measuring devices can be implemented to obtain the temperature T1 of the neck portion 11a before passing through the tunnel 7, and the temperature T2 of the neck portion 11a after passing through the tunnel 7 and before or when presented to the spray unit 18. According to other example embodiments, one or more additional sensors and measuring devices can be provided to capture the temperature of the neck portion 11a of the preform 11 at one or more intermediate locations along the guide rail 12, for example, after capturing temperature T1 but before capturing temperature T2.

[0070] Return to reference Figure 1 The first axis X1 includes an inlet end P1 and an outlet end P4, and the second axis X2 includes an inlet end P5 and an outlet end P8. In an example embodiment, a U-shaped bend TU is provided to convey the preform 11 from the first heating device 26a to the second heating device 26b, or for example to convey the preform 11 from the outlet end P4 of the first axis X1 to the inlet end P5 of the second axis X2.

[0071] As depicted, the U-shaped bend TU is approximately U-shaped or semi-circular to connect the discharge port end P4 of the first axis X1 to the inlet end P5 of the second axis X2. According to the example embodiment, the first heating device 26a is arranged along a portion of the first axis X1, and the second heating device 26b is arranged along a portion of the second axis X2. In the example embodiment, reference is still made to... Figure 1 The first heating device 26a includes an inlet end P2 and an outlet end P3, and the second heating device 26b includes an inlet end P6 and an outlet end P7. In an example embodiment, the inlet and outlet ends P2, P3, P6, and P7 of the first and second heating devices 26a and 26b are spaced inward from the inlet and outlet ends P1, P4, P5, and P8 of the first and second axes X1 and X2. According to some example embodiments, the first and second heating devices 26a and 26b are approximately centered between their inlets and outlets along their respective axes X1 and X2.

[0072] According to an example embodiment, the preform processing module 5 is configured such that the drive device 23 moves the preform 11 from upstream of the inlet P2 of the first heating device 26a to downstream of the outlet P7 of the second heating device 26b. At the inlet P2 of the first heating device 26a, the preform 11 is visibly covered by a disinfectant, and at the outlet P7 of the second heating device 26b, the preform 11 is visibly not covered by a disinfectant.

[0073] In the example embodiment, as will be described in more detail below, the visibility of the disinfectant material covering the interior of the preform 11 can vary between being visibly covered 19a, being visibly less covered 19b, and being visibly uncovered 19c. In the example embodiment, as the chain 24 circulates around the base wheel 22, the visibility typically occurs from the observation point VP (see [reference]). Figure 1 The directional arrows in the image capture the visibility of the disinfectant material. The observation point VP is approximately orthogonal to the movement path of the preform 11 along the first and second axes X1, X2 and the U-shaped turn TU connecting them.

[0074] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 5 In a first example embodiment, chain 24 moves a preform 11, visibly covered with disinfectant, from the inlet end P1 and through the inlet end P2 and outlet end P3 of the first heating device 26a along a first axis X1. In the example embodiment, the first heating device 26a causes at least a portion of the disinfectant on the preform 11 to evaporate.

[0075] Therefore, when the preform leaves the outlet end P3 of the first heating device 26a, although the disinfectant remains visible on the preform 11, it begins to reduce its presence on the preform 11, and thus the preform 11 is visibly less covered 19b compared to the coverage and visibility of the disinfectant approximately before it moves beyond the inlet end P2 of the first heating device 26a.

[0076] When leaving the discharge port end P3 of the first heating device 26a, the preform 11 remains visibly less covered 19b and continues to move to the discharge port end P4 of the first axis X1, moves along the U-shaped turn TU, and passes the inlet end P5 and the second heating device 26b along the second axis X2 to the discharge port end P8 of the second axis X2.

[0077] according to Figure 5 In the example embodiment depicted, the preform 11 is visibly and minimally covered from the outlet end P3 until it passes the inlet end P6 of the second heating device 26b. Thereafter, as it exits the outlet end P7 of the second heating device 26b, the preform 11 is visibly uncovered.

[0078] Therefore, the first heating device 26a causes a change in the visibility of at least a portion of the sterilizing material on the preform 11, such that the preform 11 is visibly covered 19a before the first heating device 26a and visibly less covered 19b after the first heating device 26a. In this way, the first heating device 26a does not cause all the material to evaporate, so that the preform is not visibly uncovered after the first heating device 26a.

[0079] exist Figure 5 In the example embodiment depicted, the second heating device 26b evaporates the material on the preform 11 so that the preform 11 is visibly uncovered at the outlet end P8 of the second axis X2. Furthermore, according to... Figure 5 In an example embodiment, the second heating device 26b evaporates the material on the preform 11 so that the preform 11 is visibly uncovered at the outlet end P7 of the second heating device 26b.

[0080] refer to Figure 6 In the second example embodiment, chain 24 moves a preform 11, visibly covered with a disinfectant, along a first axis X1 from the inlet end P1 to the inlet end P2 of the first heating device 26a. Upon passing the inlet end P2, the disinfectant on the preform 11 begins to change; first, it changes so that the preform 11 becomes visibly less covered 19b, and then visibly uncovered 19c, all of which occurs between the inlet end P2 and the outlet end P3 of the first heating device 26a. Thereafter, from the moment the preform 11 leaves the first heating device 26a, the preform remains visibly uncovered 19c along a U-shaped turn TU and a second axis X2.

[0081] In an example embodiment, the first heating device 26a evaporates all the sterilizing material on the preform 11, such that when the preform 11 leaves the outlet end P3 of the first heating device 26a, nothing on the preform 11 remains visible (e.g., visibly uncovered 19c). In an alternative example embodiment, the preform 11 may remain visibly less covered 19b throughout the first heating device 26a, and for example, transition from being visibly less covered 19b to being visibly uncovered 19c between the outlet end P3 of the first heating device 26a and the outlet end P4 of the first axis X1.

[0082] refer to Figure 7-9In the third example embodiment, chain 24 moves a preform 11, visibly covered with disinfectant, along a first axis X1 from the inlet end P1 to the inlet end P2 of the first heating device 26a. Upon passing the inlet end P2, the disinfectant on the preform 11 begins to change, becoming visibly less covered 19b. Continuing to move, the preform 11 passes through the outlet end P4 of the first axis X1, remaining visibly less covered 19b. Still visibly less covered, the preform begins to move along a U-shaped turn TU.

[0083] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 7 As the preform 11 moves along the U-shaped bend TU, it changes from being visibly less covered 19b to being visibly uncovered 19c. According to an example embodiment, the U-shaped bend TU may be divided into three consecutive segments α, β, and γ to allow for more precise identification of locations along the U-shaped bend TU where at least partially visible disinfectant solution on the preform 11 changes to become visibly uncovered 19c. In an example embodiment, segments α, β, and γ are formed around the U-shaped bend TU at approximately 60 degrees, and this transition can occur with respect to the U-shaped bend TU. According to an example embodiment, the preform 11 undergoes post-heating evaporation during its movement along at least one of segments α, β, or γ of the U-shaped bend TU. For example, as used herein, the term "post-heating" is intended to imply that at least a first heating step has occurred (e.g., the preform 11 is exposed to a first heating device 26a); and does not imply that the preform 11 has been exposed to the entire heating device 26 (the first and second heating devices 26a, 26b).

[0084] According to the example embodiment, the first segment α is approximately defined between the outlet end P4 of the first axis X1 (e.g., the inlet end of the U-shaped bend TU) and the first dividing line D1, the third segment γ is approximately defined between the inlet end P5 of the second axis X2 (e.g., the outlet end of the U-shaped bend TU) and the second dividing line D2, and the second segment β is approximately defined between the first dividing line D1 and the second dividing line D2. Therefore, when the chain moves the preform 11 along the U-shaped bend TU, the preform 11 initially moves along the first segment α, then along the second segment β, and further then along the third segment γ.

[0085] according to Figure 7 In the depicted embodiment, during the first segment α of the U-turn TU, the preform 11 changes from being visibly less covered 19b to being visibly uncovered 19c, so that the preform 11 undergoes post-heating evaporation within the U-turn TU, so that it changes from being visibly less covered 19b to being visibly uncovered 19c within the first segment α of the U-turn TU.

[0086] according to Figure 8 In the depicted embodiment, during the second segment β of the U-turn TU, the preform 11 changes from being visibly less covered 19b to being visibly uncovered 19c, so that the preform 11 undergoes post-heating evaporation within the U-turn TU, so that it changes from being visibly less covered 19b to being visibly uncovered 19c within the second segment β of the U-turn TU.

[0087] according to Figure 9 In the depicted embodiment, during the third segment γ of the U-turn TU, the preform 11 changes from being visibly less covered 19b to being visibly uncovered 19c, so that the preform 11 undergoes post-heating evaporation within the U-turn TU, so that it changes from being visibly less covered 19b to being visibly uncovered 19c within the third segment γ of the U-turn TU.

[0088] Therefore, the drive device 23 moves the preform 11 from the outlet end P4 of the first axis X1 to the inlet end P5 of the second axis X2. At the outlet end P4 of the first axis X1, the preform 11 is still visibly covered by the disinfectant, while at the inlet end P5 of the second axis X2, the preform 11 is visibly not covered by the disinfectant. For example, in other words, the drive device 23 moves the preform 11 from the outlet end P3 of the first heating device 26a to the inlet end P6 of the second heating device 26b. At the outlet end P3 of the first heating device 26a, the preform is still visibly covered by the disinfectant, while at the inlet end P6 of the second heating device 26b, the preform is visibly not covered by the disinfectant.

[0089] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, control and adjustability can be integrated regarding the time span during which the disinfectant remains present and visible within the preform 11 as it moves along the first and second axes X1, X2 and the U-shaped bend TU connecting them. For example, in some protocols, the aim is to maximize the amount of time the disinfectant remains present and visible on the preform 11 before entering the blow molding equipment 100, but still ensure that the preform 11 becomes visible and uncovered before passing the outlet end P8 of the second axis X2.

[0090] According to the example embodiment, the disinfection process is further improved based on the duration during which the disinfectant material within the preform 11 remains at least visibly less covered 19b before becoming visibly uncovered 19c.

[0091] According to an example embodiment, one or more devices, such as cameras, sensors, or other image-capturing devices, can be placed along the first axis X1, the second axis X2, and the U-turn TU to maintain real-time visibility of the disinfectant material within the preform 11. For example, one or more devices can be placed near an observation point VP located outside the path of chain 24 and facing chain 24, or, for example, one or more devices can be located inside the defined path of chain 24 and facing outwards towards chain 24, for example, to capture real-time images and / or video indicating whether the disinfectant material is visible on the preform 11 as it moves along chain 24 through the preform processing module 5. According to an example embodiment, one or more devices can be configured to face a direction approximately orthogonal to the path of chain 24, or, for example, one or more devices can be configured to face a direction at an angle relative to the defined path of chain 24, for example, wherein the orientation of one or more devices defines an angle of approximately 0.5-89.5 degrees relative to the defined path of chain 24. According to the example embodiment, the protocol may vary regarding the duration for which the preform 11 remains at least partially and visibly covered 19b as it moves through.

[0092] For example, according to certain protocols, the preform 11 changes from being visibly less covered 19b to being visibly uncovered 19c along the second axis X2 (see [reference]). Figure 5 According to another example embodiment, the preform 11 changes from being visibly less covered 19b to being visibly uncovered 19c along the first axis X1 (see [reference]). Figure 6 According to another example embodiment, one of the three segments α, β, or γ along the U-shaped bend TU of the preform 11 changes from being visibly less covered 19b to being visibly uncovered 19c.

[0093] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, as the preform 11 moves along the first axis X1, the second axis X2, and the U-shaped turn TU connecting them, a visual inspection is performed on the preform 11 to confirm that it has been sterilized. For example, the preform 11 becomes visibly uncovered 19c before passing the outlet end P8 of the second axis X2. Therefore, the sterilization of the preform 11 can be visually detected by human vision or a technical system (e.g., one or more devices, such as a camera, sensor, or other image capturing device). This provides a real-time indication of compliance with specific protocols for visual inspection of the sterilizing solution within the preform 11, or, for example, a real-time indication that sterilization has been completed and the preform 11 is visibly uncovered 19c, for example, without any visible sterilizing substance or chemical particles (hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in this example).

[0094] According to the example embodiment, such as Figure 5-9 The orientation of the preform 11 shown is for illustrative purposes. According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the orientation of the preform 11 changes along at least a portion of the first axis X1, the U-turn TU, and / or the second axis X2, for example, to become oriented in an inverted orientation, with its opening and neck facing downwards and coupled to the main shaft of the chain 24. However, according to an alternative exemplary embodiment, the orientation of the preform 11 may remain vertical as it passes through the preform processing module 5, or, for example, the preform 11 may be oriented in any desired manner as it passes through the preform processing module 5.

Claims

1. A preform processing module for a packaging machine, used to prepare a preform according to container manufacturing, the preform including a neck and a body, the preform processing module comprising: [a] A preform feeding module including a preform feeding guide; [b] A spraying unit for spraying a disinfectant into the preform to visibly cover the interior of the preform with the disinfectant; [c] An oven with a heating device for heating the preform; as well as [d] A driving device for moving the preform within the spraying unit, and then moving the preform along the heating device within the oven. The feature is that the preform feeding module includes at least one neck heating module, which applies heat to the neck of the preform as the preform moves along the preform feeding guide.

2. The packaging machine preform processing module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one neck heating module includes a UV neck heating module.

3. The packaging machine preform processing module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The UV neck heating module includes one or more UV lamps.

4. The packaging machine preform processing module according to claim 3, characterized in that, The one or more UV lamps are positioned to be concentrated on the neck of the preform.

5. The packaging machine preform processing module according to claim 4, characterized in that, At least one lamp extends longitudinally along the length of the preform feed guide.

6. The packaging machine preform processing module according to claim 4, characterized in that, The at least one lamp is positioned within approximately 5 centimeters of the neck of the preform.

7. The packaging machine preform processing module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The packaging machine preform processing module further includes a tunnel formed along the preform feeding module, the tunnel enclosing the preform feeding guide rail, the preform moving along the preform feeding guide rail, and at least one heating module.

8. The packaging machine preform processing module according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The neck of the preform undergoes a temperature change via the UV neck heating module, so that after the preform passes through the preform feeding module, the applied disinfectant reduces the condensation of the disinfectant on the preform.

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