Device for filling containers
By integrating the cleaning cap and container support into a lifting device, and utilizing a pneumatic or hydraulic supply system and a reliable interface design, the space and safety issues of the cleaning cap lifting device in existing filling equipment are solved, achieving reliable movement of the cleaning cap and a hygienic design.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- KRONES AG
- Filing Date
- 2025-05-29
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-07
AI Technical Summary
The existing filling equipment's cleaning cap lifting device requires a large space, and the flexible pneumatic hose is prone to wear and tear and incomplete cleaning, posing safety and hygiene hazards.
The cleaning cap and container support are integrated into a common component, and the cleaning cap and container support are moved vertically by first and second lifting devices. Power is supplied by pneumatic, hydraulic or electric power supply, eliminating the need for long cables or hoses. A reliable interface design ensures that the cleaning cap can move during cleaning operations.
It achieves reliable movement and hygienic design of the cleaning cover, avoids hose wear and safety hazards, simplifies kinematics, and ensures the reliability of cleaning operations and efficient space utilization.
Smart Images
Figure CN224467537U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to an apparatus for filling containers. Background Technology
[0002] In the prior art, filling devices for filling containers are already well known. Here, according to the prior art, such filling devices can be cleaned using liquid cleaning agents within a cleaning mode framework. This cleaning agent can be delivered, for example, via a product supply line, thereby cleaning individual filling elements. The cleaning agent can then be returned using a so-called CIP cap (CIP, cleaning in place) or cover.
[0003] The drawback of existing technology is that systems for cleaning caps with a mobile filling mechanism may require a relatively large space, especially when the filling mechanism also has a slender filling height probe that needs to be cleaned together.
[0004] Therefore, for space considerations, it is desirable to integrate the cleaning cap with the container support that holds the container during filling into a common component. However, if a lifting device for moving the cleaning cap is to be integrated, supplying compressed air or electricity to that lifting device is very difficult. For example, if the container support is moved vertically by its own lifting device to raise and lower, the flexible pneumatic hose may have to make very high strokes (e.g., about 130 mm) during the filling operation. This may require a relatively large hose loop.
[0005] The disadvantages of this solution are the risk of collision between the hose and adjacent components. Pneumatic hoses may wear down over time. Container bursts and the resulting debris can cut or damage the flexible hose. There are also hygiene disadvantages, as these hoses can be difficult or incompletely cleaned.
[0006] The purpose of this invention is to develop an improved technology for supplying a lifting device for a cleaning cap of a filling container, which preferably overcomes one or more of the disadvantages mentioned above. Utility Model Content
[0007] This objective is achieved through the features of the independent claims. Advantageous improvements are given in the dependent claims and the specification.
[0008] One aspect relates to an apparatus for filling containers with a filling material, preferably a circular rotating device. The apparatus has a filling mechanism for filling the container and a container support, preferably a container support plate, for supporting the container during filling. The apparatus also has a first lifting device connected to the container support for vertically moving the container support to raise and lower the supported container, and a cleaning cap, preferably a CIP cleaning cap, for covering the filling mechanism during cleaning (e.g., from below). The apparatus also has a second lifting device connected to the cleaning cap for moving (e.g., vertically moving and / or pivoting) the cleaning cap to cover the filling mechanism. The apparatus also has a supply device (e.g., pneumatic, hydraulic, or electric), preferably a compressed air supply device, connected to the second lifting device for driving the second lifting device (e.g., for supplying compressed air, hydraulic fluid, or electrical energy to the second lifting device). The supply device has a connectable interface (e.g., pneumatic, electric, or hydraulic) having a first connector and a second connector. The second connector is connected to the first lifting device (e.g., mechanical) for vertical movement with the container support to engage and disengage with the first connector (e.g., in a pneumatic, hydraulic, or electrical manner).
[0009] Advantageously, this device eliminates the need for long cables or hoses to supply the second lifting device, which would otherwise require a significant synchronous stroke during the device's filling operation, thus introducing associated disadvantages. In other words, plastic hoses that could be damaged by debris are advantageously eliminated. Advantageously, the interface can also be located within a relatively protected area of the device. This interface configuration also advantageously enables hygienic design. Advantageously, the detachable interface ensures that the cleaning cap can be moved only by the second lifting device during the cleaning operation, and not due to the disengagement of the first and second connectors.
[0010] In one embodiment, the first connector is fixed in a manner that prevents vertical movement, for example, fixed to the first lifting device. Therefore, the connection can only be advantageously achieved by moving the second connector toward the first connector. This advantageously simplifies the kinematics of the interface.
[0011] In another embodiment, the first lifting device has a (e.g., vertically) fixed element, preferably a cylinder or piston, and a relatively (e.g., vertically) movable element, preferably a piston or cylinder. Preferably, the container support, cleaning cap, and second connector can be connected to the movable element (e.g., mechanically) for vertical movement together. Optionally, the first connector can be fixed to the fixed element, preferably for fixing relative to a second connector that moves vertically together with the movable element. Thus, a reliable structure can be advantageously provided for moving the second connector relative to the first connector to engage and disengage the connectors.
[0012] In one embodiment, the movable element can be moved to a cleaning operation connection position, where the second connector and the first connector are connected to each other for cleaning operations of the device. Optionally, the cleaning operation connection position can be the terminal position of the movable element, preferably the lowest terminal position. Therefore, it is advantageous to reach the cleaning operation connection position from the terminal position of the first lifting device, thereby ensuring, for example, a reliable connection and / or reliably preventing, for example, crossing the cleaning operation connection position during filling operations.
[0013] For example, the device may have a control device designed to operate the first lifting device such that, for cleaning operations, the movable element is moved to a cleaning operation coupling position, and / or the movable element is positioned at the cleaning operation coupling position during cleaning operations.
[0014] In another embodiment, the movable element is capable of moving within a filling operation movement area, in which the container can be raised and lowered by means of a container support for filling operations. The cleaning operation connection point is located outside the filling operation movement area. Therefore, it is advantageously and reliably preventable that the second lifting device may be accidentally actuated during filling operations.
[0015] For example, the device may have a control device designed to operate the first lifting device such that, during the filling operation, the movable elements can only move within the filling operation movement area, and the cleaning operation connection position is located outside the filling operation movement area.
[0016] Preferably, the term "control device" can refer to electronic equipment (e.g., designed as a drive circuit or having a microprocessor and data memory) and / or mechanical, pneumatic and / or hydraulic controllers that, depending on their construction, can perform control and / or regulation and / or processing tasks. Although the term "control" is used herein, it may also suitably include or indicate "regulation" or "feedback control" and / or "processing".
[0017] In one embodiment, one of the first and second connectors has a movable, preferably vertically movable, closing element, preferably a closing push rod, for closing the first and second connector. Optionally, the first and second connector may also have, for example, an elastic element, preferably (e.g., a helical) spring, which pre-tensions the closing element to the closed position for closing the first and second connector. Therefore, when the corresponding connectors are disengaged, a secure closure of these connectors is advantageously possible. Thus, accidental leakage of, for example, compressed air or hydraulic fluid or exposure of electrical contacts can be advantageously prevented.
[0018] In another embodiment, the sealing element has a seal (e.g., a sealing ring, preferably an O-ring) for hermetically sealing one of the first and second connectors. Alternatively or additionally, in the closed position, the sealing element may protrude beyond the opening surface of the first and second connectors, preferably in a vertical direction (e.g., upward). Alternatively or additionally, the other of the first and second connectors may have a stop element, preferably a central stop element, for contacting the sealing element to move the sealing element to open the first and second connectors. Therefore, it is advantageous to enable a particularly reliable design of the interface.
[0019] In one implementation variant, the first lifting device is additionally connected to the cleaning lid and / or the second lifting device (e.g., mechanically) for vertically moving the cleaning lid and / or the second lifting device, preferably moving vertically together with the container support. This advantageously enables the integration of specific functions of the device and a space-saving design.
[0020] In another implementation variant, the cleaning cap can be vertically retracted and extended by means of a second lifting device, preferably retracting below the container support and / or extending by means of laterally removing (e.g., pushing open or pivoting open) the container support. Alternatively or additionally, the second lifting device may have, for example, a telescopic cylinder. Alternatively or additionally, the second lifting device and the cleaning cap may form an integrated assembly, preferably with the cleaning cap serving as the (e.g., telescopic) piston of the second lifting device. Thus, it is advantageous to enable reliable operation of the cleaning cap, a relatively large stroke of the cleaning cap, and / or an arrangement in which the cleaning cap is protected when not in use.
[0021] In one embodiment, the cleaning cap, container support, and second lifting device form an integrated component (e.g., this integrated component is vertically movable together with the first lifting device). Alternatively or additionally, the cleaning cap may be able (e.g., by the second lifting device) to move, for example, directly below the container support (e.g., in a non-use position). Alternatively or additionally, the second lifting device may be arranged, for example, directly below the container support. Alternatively or additionally, the interface may be arranged, for example, below the first lifting device and / or below the second lifting device. Alternatively or additionally, when the cleaning cap is extended (e.g., extended to the use position), the container support may be laterally moved by the cleaning cap and / or the second lifting device, preferably pivoting open. Thus, a space-saving, hygienic, and protected arrangement of the cleaning cap or interface can be advantageously made possible.
[0022] In another embodiment, the filling mechanism has a filling height probe. Preferably, the cleaning cap is sized to accommodate the filling height probe. Optionally, a second lifting device may be designed (e.g., operated by the device's control unit) to move the cleaning cap such that the filling height probe can be inserted into the cleaning cap for cleaning the filling mechanism. Advantageously, the cleaning cap can therefore also be used in systems with filling height probes.
[0023] In one embodiment, the filling mechanism has a centering cover in which the opening of the cleaning cap can be inserted. Optionally, a second lifting device may be designed (e.g., operated by the device's control unit) to move the cleaning cap such that the opening can be inserted into the centering cover, preferably for centering the cleaning cap below the filling mechanism. Thus, it is advantageous to make the cleaning cap securely centered during cleaning operations.
[0024] On the other hand, it relates to a container handling apparatus (e.g., for temperature control, manufacturing, cleaning, coating, testing, filling, sealing, pasteurizing, labeling, printing, engraving, laser engraving, and / or packaging of containers for liquid or paste-like media, preferably beverages, liquid foods, or products from the pharmaceutical or healthcare industries). This container handling apparatus may have the means as disclosed herein.
[0025] For example, containers can be bottles, jars, tubes, cartons, small bottles, pipes, etc.
[0026] On the other hand, a method of operating the apparatus as disclosed herein is involved. The method includes: operating the apparatus in a filling operation, wherein a container carried by a container support is filled by a filling mechanism, and a first connector and a second connector are disengaged from each other. Alternatively or additionally, the method includes: operating the apparatus in a cleaning operation, wherein a cleaning cap (e.g., from below) covers the filling mechanism, and the first connector and the second connector are interconnected (e.g., for transmitting compressed air, hydraulic fluid, or electrical energy). The same advantages already described with reference to the apparatus can be advantageously achieved using this method. This also applies to the preferred embodiments of the method described below.
[0027] In one embodiment, the method has at least one of the following:
[0028] - In the filling operation, the container support is moved by means of the first lifting device to lift the container in preparation for filling, the container is held in the lifted position during filling, and the container is lowered after filling.
[0029] - During the filling operation, the second lifting device is not pressurized by compressed air or hydraulic fluid, or is not powered;
[0030] - In the cleaning operation, the second connector is moved to the first connector by means of the first lifting device for connection with the first connector, so that the second lifting device can be supplied with compressed air, hydraulic fluid or electrical energy.
[0031] - During the cleaning operation, the cleaning cover is moved by the second lifting device and preferably extends to cover the filling mechanism;
[0032] - During the cleaning operation, the movable element of the first lifting device, preferably a cylinder or piston, is positioned at a location (e.g., the lowest) that is unattainable during the filling operation; and
[0033] - One of the first connector and the second connector is opened during connection by the other of the first connector and the second connector (e.g., mechanically), preferably by means of a stop element of the other of the first connector and the second connector, which moves the closing element of the first connector and the second connector (e.g., a closing element elastically pre-tightened to the closed position) from the closed position.
[0034] The preferred embodiments and features of this utility model described above can be combined with each other as needed. Attached Figure Description
[0035] Other details and advantages of this utility model will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:
[0036] Figure 1A purely schematic illustration is shown of an apparatus for filling containers according to one embodiment;
[0037] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary apparatus during a filling operation is shown;
[0038] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 Detailed view of section C;
[0039] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary apparatus during a cleaning operation is shown; and
[0040] Figure 5 It shows Figure 4 Detailed view of section D.
[0041] The embodiments shown in the figures are at least partially corresponding, so similar or identical parts are given the same reference numerals. In order to avoid repetition, reference is also made to the description of other embodiments or figures. Detailed Implementation
[0042] Figure 1 An apparatus 10 for filling containers is shown. The apparatus 10 may be included, for example, in a container handling device. For example, the container handling device may also have means for sealing the filled containers. The means for sealing the filled containers may be connected to the apparatus 10, for example, via a container conveyor.
[0043] Preferably, the device 10 can be used to fill containers with liquid or paste media. The device 10 is preferably implemented as a circular rotary filling device, for example, having a vertical central axis of rotation A. The device 10 may have several filling mechanisms 12 for simultaneously or overlappingly filling several containers. For example, the filling mechanisms 12 may be arranged around the circumference of the filler turntable of the circular rotary filling device.
[0044] Figures 2 to 5 Each part of the device 10 is shown, wherein Figure 2 and Figure 3 The filling operation of device 10 is shown. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The cleaning operation of device 10 is shown.
[0045] The device 10 has a filling mechanism 12, a container support 24, a first lifting device 26, a cleaning cover 34, a second lifting device 38, and a supply device 44.
[0046] Preferably, the device 10 has several stations, each of which has a filling mechanism 12, a container support 24, a first lifting device 26, a cleaning cap 34, a second lifting device 38, and a supply device 44. These stations may preferably be arranged in a circumferential distribution around the device 10 (see also...). Figure 1 ).
[0047] The filling mechanism 12 is used to fill container B with a preferred liquid or paste-like filling material. It is possible that the filling mechanism 12 is additionally designed to vacuum, flush, and / or pre-tighten container B.
[0048] For example, the filling mechanism 12 may be held at a rotatable upper part of the device 10. The upper part is preferably rotatable about a vertical central axis of rotation A of the device 10 (see also...). Figure 1 For example, the upper part can be rotated by means of the vertically oriented spindle / central axis of device 10.
[0049] The filling mechanism 12 may, for example, have a filling valve 14 with a movable valve element for releasing and blocking the filling path. Preferably, the filling mechanism 12 may also have a centering shroud 16 and / or a filling height probe 22.
[0050] The centering cover 16 can center the container B to be filled directly below the filling mechanism 12. For example, the centering cover 16 may have a conical receiving portion for the container opening of the container B. This receiving portion can be opened from the bottom side of the centering cover 16.
[0051] Preferably, the centering cover 16 can be vertically movable and guided. For example, the centering cover 16 may be able to move vertically by means of a connecting rod 18. The connecting rod 18 may be connected to a lifting cam, for example, via a roller 20. It is possible that the centering cover 16 can be vertically moved relative to the filling outlet or filling valve housing of the filling mechanism 12. Correspondingly, the centering cover 16 can be lowered from a position near the outlet or filling valve housing, and / or raised from a lowered position to approach the filling outlet or filling valve housing.
[0052] The filling height probe 22 protrudes vertically downward from the filling mechanism 12. The filling height probe 22 can be immersed in container B during filling using the filling mechanism 12. Preferably, the filling height probe 22 can send a filling stop signal to the filling mechanism 12 when the desired filling height is reached in container B. The filling height probe 22 can be implemented, for example, as a short-circuit probe.
[0053] Preferably, the filling height probe 22 is an elongated, elongated component, such as a rod or tube. The longitudinal axis of the elongated filling height probe 22 may be vertically oriented. The filling height probe 22 may extend through the centering cover 16.
[0054] Container support 24 can carry container B. Container support 24 can support container B during filling using the filling mechanism 12. Preferably, container support 24 can support the bottom side of container B. For example, container support 24 can be implemented as a container support plate or have at least one such container support plate. Alternatively or additionally, container support 24 can carry the circumference of container B, for example, the container neck, container neck ring, or container base (container body).
[0055] The first lifting device 26 is connected to the container support 24 and is used to vertically move the container support 24 to lift and lower the supported container B. Preferably, the first lifting device 26 can carry the first container support 24.
[0056] The first lifting device 26 can lift the container support 24 together with the container B it supports for filling. During lifting, the filling height probe 22 can be immersed in the container. During lifting, the opening of container B can be against or is already against the centering cover 16. After filling, the first lifting device 26 can lower the container support 24 together with the filled container B.
[0057] Additionally, the first lifting device 26 may be connected to the cleaning cover 34 and / or the second lifting device 38 for vertical movement of the cleaning cover 34 and / or the second lifting device 38. Preferably, the first lifting device 26 may carry the cleaning cover 34 and / or the second lifting device 38.
[0058] Particularly preferably, the first lifting device 26 can be connected to an (integrated) component consisting of a container support 24, a cleaning cover 34, and a second lifting device 38, for vertical movement and preferably to carry the component.
[0059] For example, the first lifting device 26 has a (vertically) fixed element 28 and an element 30 capable of relative (e.g., vertical) movement. For example, the fixed element 28 may be securely connected to the rotatable lower part of the device 10. For example, the fixed element 28 may be securely connected to the rotatable lower part of the device 10 at its upper end. Therefore, the first lifting device 26 is preferably together with the container support 24, the cleaning cap 34, the second lifting device 38, and the supply device 44, along with the rotatable lower part of the device 10 around a central axis of rotation A (see...). Figure 1 They rotate together. For example, the lower part can be rotated by means of the vertically oriented spindle / central axis of device 10.
[0060] Preferably, the first lifting device 26 is implemented as a pneumatic piston-cylinder unit. For example... Figure 2 and Figure 4As shown, the fixed element 28 is preferably the piston (with a piston rod) of the first lifting device 26, and the movable element 30 is the cylinder of the first lifting device 26. However, it is also possible, for example, that the fixed element 28 is the cylinder of the first lifting device 26, and the movable element 30 of the first lifting device 26 is a piston (with a piston rod) (not shown in the figure).
[0061] Preferably, the first lifting device 26 is oriented vertically. The movable element 30 is capable of moving in the vertical direction relative to the fixed element 28.
[0062] Preferably, the first lifting device 26 is a pneumatic lifting device. However, it is also possible for the first lifting device 26 to be, for example, a mechanical, hydraulic, electric, or electromagnetic lifting device.
[0063] Preferably, the first lifting device 26 may be arranged laterally next to the container support 24 and / or the component consisting of the container support 24, the cleaning cap 34, and the second lifting device 38. For example, the first lifting device 26 may carry the component via a support arm 32. The support arm 32 may connect the component and the fixed element 28 of the first lifting device 26 to each other.
[0064] In its use position, the cleaning cap 34 can cover the filling mechanism 12 from below when cleaning the filling mechanism 12. Specifically, the cleaning cap 34 can cover the filling outlet of the filling mechanism 12 from below in its use position. Therefore, the cleaning cap 34 can cause the cleaning liquid flowing through the filling mechanism 12 to flow back into the filling mechanism 12 at the filling outlet during the cleaning operation of the device 10.
[0065] Preferably, the cleaning cover 34 is implemented as a so-called CIP cleaning cover or in-situ cleaning cover.
[0066] Preferably, the cleaning cap 34 is sized to accommodate the filling height probe 22. For example, the cleaning cap 34 may have an inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the filling height probe 22. For example, the cleaning cap 34 may have a length larger than the length of the filling height probe 22.
[0067] For example, the cleaning cover 34 may be substantially tubular, having a closed lower end and an open upper end arranged opposite to it.
[0068] The cleaning cover 34 may, for example, have a cover opening 36. The cover opening 36 may, for example, be conical.
[0069] The external shape of the opening 36 is preferably adapted to the internal shape of the centering cover 16. Preferably, the cleaning cover 34 can be inserted into the centering cover 16 through its opening 36. In this way, the centering cover 16 can hold or lock / secure the cleaning cover 34, for example, in a radial direction relative to the central vertical axis of the centering cover 16.
[0070] The cleaning cover 34 is preferably capable of retracting and extending vertically by means of a second lifting device 38. Figure 2 The image exemplarily illustrates the retracted or non-use position of the cleaning cover 34. Figure 4 The image exemplarily shows the extended or used position of the cleaning cover 34.
[0071] Preferably, the cleaning cover 34 can be positioned in a retracted position directly below the container support 34. Preferably, the cleaning cover 34 can be retracted to a position below the container support 24 by means of a second lifting device 38.
[0072] When the cleaning cap 34 is extended, the container support 24 can be moved laterally, preferably pivoted open, for example, by 90° and / or about a horizontal pivot axis (see, for example, see...). Figure 4 Preferably, the container support 24 can be removed by the cleaning cover 34 and / or the second lifting device 38.
[0073] The second lifting device 38 is connected to the cleaning cover 34 and is used to move the cleaning cover 34 to cover the filling mechanism 12. Specifically, the second lifting device 38 can move the cleaning cover 34 to its use position, in which the cleaning cover 34 covers the filling mechanism 12, and the device 10 can be operated during cleaning operations.
[0074] Preferably, the second lifting device 38 is vertically retractable and extendable of the cleaning cover 34, and optionally, when the cleaning cover 34 is extended, it indirectly or directly laterally removes the container support 24, preferably pivoting it open. Specifically, the second lifting device 38 is preferably able to vertically extend the cleaning cover 34 outward to its use position and vertically retract it to its non-use position.
[0075] Even though the vertical mobility of the cleaning cover 34 by means of the second lifting device 38 (i.e., the retraction and extension of the cleaning cover 34) is particularly preferred, it is in principle feasible for the cleaning cover 34 to additionally or alternatively perform at least one pivoting movement (e.g., about a vertical pivot axis and / or a horizontal pivot axis) to reach or move from the use position to the non-use position for cleaning operations.
[0076] The mobility of the cleaning cover 34 provided by the second lifting device 38 preferably makes it possible for the cleaning cover 34 to be moved to its use position such that the filling height probe 22 for cleaning the filling mechanism 12 is inserted into the cleaning cover 34 and / or the cap opening 36 is inserted into the centering cover 16.
[0077] The second lifting device 38 is preferably implemented as a piston-cylinder unit. For example, the second lifting device 38 may have a lifting element 40. The lifting element 40 may be capable of vertical retraction and extension. For example, the lifting element 40 may be implemented as at least one lifting piston. This at least one lifting piston may be guided, for example, in a vertically movable manner within the (lifting) cylinder 42 of the second lifting device 38.
[0078] Preferably, the second lifting device 38 is arranged directly below the container support 24. For example, the second lifting device 38 may carry the container support 24, for example, at the upper end of the cylinder 42. For example, the upper end of the cylinder 42 may be connected to the edge region of the container support 24 via a (preferably horizontal) pivot.
[0079] Preferably, the second lifting device 38 has a telescopic cylinder, or is implemented as such a telescopic cylinder. For example, the lifting element 40 may have several pistons capable of retracting and extending in a telescopic manner.
[0080] Particularly preferably, the second lifting device 38 and the cleaning cover 34 can form an integrated assembly. Specifically, for example, the cleaning cover 34 can be implemented as part of a (e.g., telescopic) piston or lifting element 40, such as... Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown exemplarily.
[0081] Preferably, the second lifting device 38 is a pneumatic lifting device, such as a single-acting or double-acting pneumatic piston-cylinder unit. However, it is also possible for the second lifting device 38 to be a hydraulic, electric, or electromagnetic lifting device, for example.
[0082] The supply device 44 is connected to the second lifting device 38 and is used to drive the second lifting device 38. Preferably, the supply device 44 can be a compressed air supply device, which supplies compressed air to the second lifting device 38 to drive the second lifting device 38. However, it is also possible, for example, that the supply device 44 is an electrical or hydraulic supply device.
[0083] The supply device 44 has a connectable interface 46. Interface 46 is preferably a pneumatic interface, such as... Figures 2 to 5 As shown. However, it is also possible, for example, for interface 46 to be an electrical or hydraulic interface.
[0084] like Figure 3 and Figure 5 As specifically shown, interface 46 has a first connector 48 and a second connector 50, which are capable of being connected to and disconnected from each other.
[0085] The first connector 48 can be connected to a drive source. The drive source can be, for example, a compressed air source, a voltage source, or a hydraulic fluid source. The second connector 50 can be connected to the second lifting device 38, for example, via a (preferably rigid) fluid line or a (preferably rigid) power cable. In this way, the second lifting device 38 can extend under the drive of the drive source.
[0086] Alternatively or additionally, the first connector 48 may be connected to, or is capable of connecting to, another drive source, which is a vacuum source. In this way, the second lifting device 38 can, for example, retract / retract.
[0087] The first connecting member 48 is preferably fixed in a manner that prevents vertical movement. For example, the first connecting member 48 can be fixed in a manner that prevents vertical movement at the fixed element 28 of the first lifting device 26, such as at the lower end of the piston rod of the fixed element 28.
[0088] The second connector 50 is mechanically connected to the first lifting device 26 for engaging and disengaging with the first connector 48, so as to move vertically together with the container support 24. Therefore, the container support 24, the cleaning cover 34, the second lifting device 38, and the second connector 50 can preferably be connected to the movable element 30 of the first lifting device 26 for vertical movement together.
[0089] For example, the second connector 50 may be fixed to the movable element 30 of the first lifting device 26, for example at the lower end of the movable element 30.
[0090] For example, the first connector 48 may be arranged directly below the second connector 50. The second connector 50 may be moved vertically above the first connector 48 by means of a movable element 30.
[0091] Figure 2 and Figure 3 The connectors 48 and 50 are shown in their connected state. Connectors 48 and 50 are perpendicularly spaced apart from each other. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The connectors 48 and 50 are shown in the connected state. Connectors 48 and 50 are in contact with each other.
[0092] in this case, Figure 4 An exemplary illustration shows that the movable element 30 can be moved to a cleaning operation connection position, where the second connector 50 and the first connector 48 are connected to each other to perform a cleaning operation on the device 10. Preferably, the cleaning operation connection position R can be the terminal position of the movable element 30, preferably the lowest terminal position. Preferably, the fixed element 28 can serve as a stop for the movable element 30 at the cleaning operation position R.
[0093] on the other hand, Figure 2 This illustrates that during the filling operation of device 10, the movable element 30 moves away from the cleaning operation connection position R. Specifically, the second lifting device 26 is operated during the filling operation of device 10 such that the movable element 30 moves only within the filling operation movement area F to lift and lower container B by means of container support 24. Preferably, the cleaning operation connection position R may be located outside the filling operation movement area F. Correspondingly, during the filling operation, there may be no connection between connectors 48 and 50, so that the second lifting device 38 is not driven.
[0094] Figure 3 and Figure 5 Connectors 48 and 50 are shown in detail, exemplarily.
[0095] For example, the first connector 48 may have a movable, preferably vertically movable, closing element 52 for closing the opening surface of the first connector 48. Preferably, the closing element 52 may be implemented as a closing push rod. For example, the closing element 52 may have a conical shape, such as a truncated cone. Preferably, in the closed position (see...) Figure 3 The closing element 52 may protrude beyond the opening surface of the first connector 48, preferably upward in the vertical direction.
[0096] The sealing element 52 may, for example, have a seal 56. With the aid of the seal 56, the first connection 48 can preferably be sealed in an airtight manner. For example, the seal 56 may be implemented as a sealing ring, such as an O-ring.
[0097] For example, the closure element 52 can be pre-tightened to a closed position by the elastic element 54 and / or by the application of compressed fluid to close the first connector 48. For example, the elastic element 54 can be a spring, such as a compression spring, preferably a helical compression spring. The elastic element 54 can preferably be arranged below the closure element 52 and / or at least partially arranged within the receiving portion of the closure element 52 (e.g., the bottom side).
[0098] Preferably, the second connector 50 may have a stop element 58. Preferably, the stop element 58 may be disposed in the center of the opening region of the second connector 50. When the connectors 48 and 50 are connected to each other, the stop element 58 may contact and move the closing element 52, thereby opening the first connector or its opening region.
[0099] Correspondingly, in the connected state, compressed air is preferably conducted from a compressed air source via the first connector 48 to the second connector 50, and from the second connector 50 to the second lifting device 38. The lifting element 40 is then preferably extended together with the cleaning cover 34. For example, the retraction of the lifting element 40 at the end of the cleaning operation can be done by gravity, and / or by connecting a vacuum source to the supply device 44 and / or by applying compressed air to another chamber of the second lifting device 38, which operates bidirectionally in this case.
[0100] Optionally, the opening region of the second connector 50 may have a seal 60. With the aid of the seal 60, connectors 48 and 50 can preferably be connected in an airtight manner. For example, the seal 60 may be implemented as a sealing ring, such as an O-ring.
[0101] For example, as an alternative to the illustrated embodiment, it is possible for the first connector 48 to have a stop element 58 and optionally a seal 60, and for the second connector 50 to have a closing element 52 and optionally an elastic element 54 and / or a seal 56.
[0102] As previously described, the device 10 can be operated during filling and cleaning operations.
[0103] During the filling operation (see...) Figure 2 and Figure 3 The container B, carried by the container support 24, is filled by the filling mechanism 12. The first connector 48 and the second connector 50 are disengaged from each other. During the filling operation, the container support 24 can be moved by means of the first lifting device 26 to lift the container B in preparation for filling. During filling, the container B is held in the lifted position by means of the filling mechanism 12, and after filling, the container B is lowered, for example by the movement of the movable element 30 only within the filling operation movement area F. Due to the disengagement of connectors 48 and 50, the second lifting device 38 and / or the supply device 44 are preferably not supplied with compressed air or hydraulic fluid upstream of the second connector 50, or for example, not energized.
[0104] During cleaning operations (see...) Figure 4 and Figure 5 A cleaning cap 34 covers the filling mechanism 12. A first connector 48 and a second connector 50 are interconnected and are preferably used to transmit compressed air, hydraulic fluid, or electrical energy.
[0105] This invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Instead, numerous variations and modifications are possible, which also utilize the concepts of this invention and thus fall within its scope of protection. In particular, this invention also claims protection for the subject matter and features of dependent claims independent of the cited claims. Specifically, the features of independent claim 1 are disclosed independently of each other. Additionally, features of dependent claims independent of all features of independent claim 1, as well as features of the presence and / or configuration of, for example, the filling mechanism, container support, first lifting device, cleaning cap, second lifting device, and / or supply device independent of independent claim 1, are also disclosed. All scope descriptions provided herein should be understood as disclosed, i.e., all values falling within the corresponding scope appear to be individually disclosed, for example, preferably also as the narrower outer boundary of the corresponding scope.
[0106] List of reference numerals
[0107] 10 devices
[0108] 12 Filling mechanism
[0109] 14 Filling valve
[0110] 16. Calming Shield
[0111] 18 Connecting rod
[0112] 20 rollers
[0113] 22 Filling height probe
[0114] 24 Container Supports
[0115] 26 First Lifting Device
[0116] 28 Fixed components
[0117] 30 Movable components
[0118] 32 Load-bearing arm
[0119] 34 Cleaning cover
[0120] 36. Lid opening
[0121] 38 Second lifting device
[0122] 40 Lifting Components
[0123] 42-cylinder block
[0124] 44. Supply device
[0125] 46 Interfaces
[0126] 48 First connector
[0127] 50 Second connector
[0128] 52 Enclosed Components
[0129] 54 Elastic elements
[0130] 56 Seals
[0131] 58 Stopping element
[0132] 60 Seals
[0133] A Central Rotation Axis
[0134] Container B
[0135] F Filling operation movement area
[0136] R Cleaning operation connection location.
Claims
1. An apparatus (10) for filling a container (B) with a filling material, wherein the apparatus (10) comprises: Filling mechanism (12) for filling container (B); Container support (24) for supporting the container (B) during filling; A first lifting device (26) is connected to the container support (24) and is used to vertically move the container support (24) to lift and lower the supported container (B). A cleaning cover (34) for covering the filling mechanism (12) when cleaning the filling mechanism (12). The second lifting device (38) is connected to the cleaning cover (34) and is used to move the cleaning cover (34) to cover the filling mechanism (12). and A supply device (44), wherein the supply device (44) is connected to the second lifting device (38) for driving the second lifting device (38), wherein the supply device (44) has a connectable interface (46) having: - First connector (48); and - Second connector (50), which is connected to the first lifting device (26) for vertical movement together with the container support (24) to engage and disengage with the first connector (48).
2. The apparatus (10) according to claim 1, wherein: The first connector (48) is fixed in a manner that prevents vertical movement.
3. The apparatus (10) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: The first lifting device (26) has a fixed element (28) and an element (30) movable relative to the fixed element; and The container support (24), the cleaning cap (34), and the second connector (50) are connected to the movable element (30) for vertical movement together.
4. The apparatus (10) according to claim 3, wherein: The movable element (30) can be moved to the cleaning operation connection position (R), where the second connector (50) and the first connector (48) are connected to each other to perform the cleaning operation of the device (10).
5. The apparatus (10) according to claim 4, wherein: The movable element (30) is capable of moving within a filling operation movement area (F), within which the container (B) can be raised and lowered by means of the container support (24) to perform the filling operation of the device (10); and The cleaning operation connection point (R) is located outside the filling operation movement area (F).
6. The apparatus (10) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein one of the first connector (48) and the second connector (50) has: A movable closure element (52) is used to close one of the first connector (48) and the second connector (50).
7. The apparatus (10) according to claim 6, wherein at least one of the following is satisfied: The sealing element (52) has a seal (56) for sealing one of the first connector (48) and the second connector (50) in an airtight manner; In the closed position, the closing element (52) protrudes beyond the opening surface of one of the first connector (48) and the second connector (50); and The other of the first connector (48) and the second connector (50) has a stop element (58) for contacting the closing element (52) to move the closing element (52) to open one of the first connector (48) and the second connector (50).
8. The apparatus (10) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: The first lifting device (26) is additionally connected to the cleaning cover (34) and / or the second lifting device (38) for vertically moving the cleaning cover (34) and / or the second lifting device (38).
9. The apparatus (10) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein at least one of the following is satisfied: The cleaning cover (34) can be vertically retracted and extended by means of the second lifting device (38); The second lifting device (38) has a telescopic cylinder; and The second lifting device (38) and the cleaning cover (34) form an integrated assembly.
10. The apparatus (10) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein at least one of the following is satisfied: The cleaning cover (34), the container support (24), and the second lifting device (38) form an integrated component; The cleaning cover (34) can be moved to a position directly below the container support (24); The second lifting device (38) is arranged directly below the container support (24); The interface (46) is located below the first lifting device (26) and / or below the second lifting device (38), and When the cleaning cover (34) extends, the container support (24) is moved to the side by the cleaning cover (34) and / or the second lifting device (38).
11. The apparatus (10) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: The filling mechanism (12) has a filling height probe (22); and The cleaning cap (34) is sized to accommodate the filling height probe (22).
12. The apparatus (10) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: The filling mechanism (12) has a centering cover (16) in which the opening (36) of the cleaning cover (34) can be inserted.
13. The apparatus (10) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: The device (10) can be operated in a filling operation, wherein the filling mechanism (12) fills the container (B) carried by the container support (24), and the first connector (48) and the second connector (50) are decoupled from each other; And / or The device (10) can be operated in a cleaning operation, wherein the cleaning cover (34) covers the filling mechanism (12), and the first connector (48) and the second connector (50) are interconnected.
14. The apparatus (10) according to claim 13, wherein at least one of the following is satisfied: In the filling operation, the container support (24) is moved by means of the first lifting device (26) to lift the container (B) in preparation for filling, the container (B) is held in the lifted position during the filling, and the container (B) is lowered after the filling. During the filling operation, the second lifting device (38) is not subjected to compressed air or hydraulic fluid, or is not powered. During the cleaning operation, the second connector (50) is moved to the first connector (48) by means of the first lifting device (26) for connection with the first connector (48), so that the second lifting device (38) can be supplied with compressed air, hydraulic fluid or electrical energy; During the cleaning operation, the cleaning cap (34) is moved by the second lifting device (38) to cover the filling mechanism (12); and During the cleaning operation, the movable element (30) of the first lifting device (26) is in a position that is not reachable during the filling operation.
15. The apparatus (10) according to claim 13, wherein: One of the first connector (48) and the second connector (50) is opened by the other of the first connector (48) and the second connector (50) during connection.
16. The apparatus (10) according to claim 1, wherein: The device (10) is a circular rotating device.
17. The apparatus (10) according to claim 1, wherein: The container support (24) is a container support plate.
18. The apparatus (10) according to claim 1, wherein: The cleaning cover (34) is a CIP cleaning cover.
19. The apparatus (10) according to claim 1, wherein: The supply device (44) is a compressed air supply device.
20. The apparatus (10) according to claim 3, wherein: The fixed element (28) is a cylinder or piston.
21. The apparatus (10) according to claim 3, wherein: The movable element (30) is a piston or cylinder.
22. The apparatus (10) according to claim 3, wherein: The first connector (48) is fixed at the fixed element (28).
23. The apparatus (10) according to claim 22, wherein: The first connector (48) is fixed to the fixed element (28) for fixing relative to the second connector (50) which moves vertically together with the movable element (30).
24. The apparatus (10) according to claim 4, wherein: The cleaning operation connection position (R) is the terminal position of the movable element (30).
25. The apparatus (10) according to claim 4, wherein: The cleaning operation connection position (R) is the lowest terminal position of the movable element (30).
26. The apparatus (10) according to claim 6, wherein: The closing element (52) is capable of vertical movement.
27. The apparatus (10) according to claim 6, wherein: The closing element (52) is a closing push rod.
28. The apparatus (10) according to claim 6, wherein one of the first connector (48) and the second connector (50) has: An elastic element (54) pre-tightens the closing element (52) to a closed position for closing one of the first connector (48) and the second connector (50).
29. The apparatus (10) according to claim 28, wherein: The elastic element (54) is a spring.
30. The apparatus (10) according to claim 7, wherein: The seal (56) is an O-ring.
31. The apparatus (10) according to claim 7, wherein: In the closed position, the closing element (52) protrudes vertically beyond the mouth surface of one of the first connector (48) and the second connector (50).
32. The apparatus (10) according to claim 7, wherein: The stop element (58) is a central stop element.
33. The apparatus (10) according to claim 8, wherein: The first lifting device (26) is additionally connected to the cleaning cover (34) and / or the second lifting device (38) for vertically moving the cleaning cover (34) and / or the second lifting device (38) together with the container support (24).
34. The apparatus (10) according to claim 9, wherein: The cleaning cover (34) can be retracted below the container support (24) by means of the second lifting device (38) and / or can be extended by laterally moving the container support (24).
35. The apparatus (10) according to claim 9, wherein: The second lifting device (38) and the cleaning cover (34) form an integrated assembly, wherein the cleaning cover (34) serves as the piston of the second lifting device (38).
36. The apparatus (10) according to claim 10, wherein: When the cleaning cover (34) is extended, the container support (24) is pivoted to the side by the cleaning cover (34) and / or the second lifting device (38).
37. The apparatus (10) according to claim 11, wherein: The second lifting device (38) is designed to move the cleaning cover (34) such that the filling height probe (22) can be inserted into the cleaning cover (34) for cleaning the filling mechanism (12).
38. The apparatus (10) according to claim 12, wherein: The second lifting device (38) is designed to move the cleaning cover (34) such that the opening (36) of the cover can be inserted into the centering cover (16).
39. The apparatus (10) according to claim 12, wherein: The second lifting device (38) is designed to move the cleaning cap (34) such that the cap opening (36) can be inserted into the centering cover (16) to center the cleaning cap (34) below the filling mechanism (12).
40. The apparatus (10) according to claim 14, wherein: During the cleaning operation, the cleaning cover (34) extends from the second lifting device (38) to cover the filling mechanism (12).
41. The apparatus (10) according to claim 14, wherein: During the cleaning operation, the cylinder or piston of the first lifting device (26) is in a position that cannot be reached during the filling operation.
42. The apparatus (10) according to claim 15, wherein: By moving the closing element (52) of one of the first connectors (48) and the second connector (50) from the closed position with the stop element (58) of the other of the first connector (48) and the second connector (50), one of the first connectors (48) and the second connector (50) is opened by the other of the first connector (48) and the second connector (50) when connected.