Sample bottle, especially milk sample bottle
Patent Information
- Application Number
- DE102021120578
- Authority / Receiving Office
- DE · DE
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2021-08-07
- Publication Date
- 2025-02-27
- Estimated Expiration
- 2041-08-07
Smart Images

Figure 00000000_0000_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] The invention relates to a sample bottle, in particular a milk sample bottle, having a bottle body (1) and a holding device (3) of the bottle body (1), wherein the holding device (3) has an electronic TAG (4) and a base (11). background
[0002] The invention relates in particular to a magnetic reusable sample bottle, in particular using the example of a milk sample bottle, and to a holding device (3) which protects a magnetic metal ring (14) and an electronic component (4) in the best possible way by means of an airtight seal. State of the art
[0003] The sample bottle is commonly used in the dairy industry, particularly for taking samples from milk collection trucks and for testing the samples in the testing laboratory.
[0004] Within the dairy industry and testing laboratories, samples must be clearly identifiable and traceable at all times to ensure compliance with required testing standards. Some known arrangements already allow sample identification using a barcode, which is "read" by in-process scanners. However, this current state of the art requires a direct line of sight between the label and the scanner, which is not always feasible through automation in the dairy industry's process chains or testing laboratories. Furthermore, reading the barcode requires the sample bottle to rotate smoothly. These sample bottles are often used or "read" once and then disposed of. Task and solution of the invention
[0005] The aim of the invention is to avoid the aforementioned disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, the aim is to ensure that the bottle's position on the conveyor belt is optimally maintained, allowing the additional information to be reliably read when using a barcode / QR code.
[0006] This object is achieved according to the invention in a sample bottle, in particular a milk sample bottle of the type mentioned at the outset, in that the base (11) of the holding device (3) is cup-shaped and has a magnetic metal ring (14). Advantages of the invention
[0007] In developing the sample bottle according to the invention, the inventors have overcome the following technical difficulties in a non-obvious manner, as will be shown below based on the development history of the sample bottle with integrated RFID.
[0008] To err is human – so it's not surprising that errors can occur when taking samples at various dairy farms, despite special arrangements in designated transport crates. This may result in the sample no longer being assigned to the correct animal or dairy farmer, thus rendering the test result inaccurate.
[0009] In addition, the fixed sequence for sample collection often also dictates the order in which the samples are tested in the sample stand. Sampling machines often rely fully automatically on the correct insertion sequence, thus perpetuating the error sequence. This can lead to a dairy product being classified as good when it may actually be contaminated, or vice versa. Such errors can have fatal consequences, particularly in the food industry, rendering a large quantity of products unusable because the products were combined in a collection tank.
[0010] This is precisely where the inventors came in. Over many years, many methods were tested and used, but in many cases these methods were not 100% reliable in detection or the production costs were so high that they were deemed economically unviable for the laboratories.
[0011] One of the methods is characterized by the use of a box and a tripod for sample collection. Unfortunately, it quickly became apparent that, depending on the sampler's position and, for example, whether the sampler was left-handed or right-handed, this led to hectic workflows and distractions, which presented a problem. The error rate for this method was therefore still considered too high, as human error could still occur.
[0012] Another development trial explored the use of a barcode, which was glued to the container. The effort involved in the bonding process was not the only disadvantage. The likelihood of external influences (washing, weather, etc.) negatively affecting the barcode's readability was also a significant consideration. Added to this were the adhesive's lifespan and its purchasing costs. Another disadvantage of the barcode process was the generally round shape of the sample containers. In order for a barcode scanner to read the code accurately, a device is often required to rotate the bottle around its axis.
[0013] Based on these initial processes for developing a cost-effective and error-free solution, the inventors' initial idea was aimed at a more robust form of identification – the use of an RFID chip. However, it should still be possible to add optional additional information to the bottle body using a barcode and have this information reliably read. In the first development step, the inventors positioned the chip in the sample container. The reading and writing process generally worked flawlessly. The disadvantages of this solution, however, were that the milk was in direct contact with the electronic component, and possible contamination could not be ruled out. Furthermore, the higher density of the milk often caused the chip to float to the top, making it impossible to clearly read during the scanning process.Another disadvantage discovered by the inventors was that the RFID chip at the bottom of the bottle blocked the path to dirt there during the cleaning process, so the cleaning effect could not be classified as 100%.
[0014] Based on the initial results, the inventors decided to design a separate "bottom" for the bottle, equipped with a thread. This way, the chip wouldn't contaminate the sample and the cleaning process could be carried out without disruption. While this second idea was already an improvement over the current situation, the inventors now had to contend with condensation and water in the bottom, which led to mold growth in the long term.
[0015] Based on their findings, the inventors further developed the idea and designed a base with circular holes to allow water to drain away. This allowed them to prevent condensation from accumulating and mold growth. However, the lack of watertightness of the base proved fatal for the inventors when they heated the samples in a water bath. When they lifted the samples from the water bath, water could drip from the holes and contaminate other samples.
[0016] The inventors therefore abandoned this idea once again and went back to the approach of a closed base. The inventors had to find a solution to the problem of mold growth, and this solution was called an "airtight seal." The inventors designed version 2.0 of the base so that the space in the base exactly fit the circumference of the RFID chip. This gave rise to the idea of incorporating a magnetic metal ring into the base in addition to the RFID chip. This would ensure that the bottle was optimally positioned on the conveyor belt, allowing for reliable reading of the additional information when using a barcode / QR code. The inventors completely filled the remaining space in the base with adhesive. If the RFID chip is defective, it can still be replaced at any time via the thread.
[0017] When the inventors subjected this idea to an economic analysis, they discovered that the production of such a thread would be very expensive, which is why the inventors ultimately opted for this idea, but made a few optimizations. The inventors decided to replace the expensive thread with the plug-in variant described in the present application, which, however, cannot be reopened using muscle power. According to an extrapolation, it is significantly cheaper to forgo the expensive production costs of the thread and the replaceable chip and instead, in the event of a defect, replace the entire bottle, including the RFID chip and metal ring. The described plug-in mechanism is very cost-effective to produce. Throughout this progressive development, the inventors continually optimized the original idea.The locking mechanism described in the present application together with the other components described thus shows the final solution to the problem.
[0018] Advantageous embodiments of the invention are set out in the subclaims. It is proposed - that the electronic TAG (4) is arranged within the holding device (3), - that the magnetic metal ring (14) is arranged on the underside of the holding device (3), - that the cup-shaped base (11) of the holding device (3) is filled, in particular with adhesive, - that the holding device (3) can be manually connected to the bottle body (1) by means of a snap-in connection which cannot be manually released, - that the inner surface of the holding device (3) lies sealingly against a circumferential curvature (7) on the underside of the bottle body (1), - that the outer underside of the holding device (3) has a centrally and recessed centering point (12), - that the metal ring (14) has a different radius at the top and bottom, - that the holding device (3) is provided with two bulges (8) and (9) and interlocks with the bulge (7) on the lower part of the bottle body (1), - that the bottle body (1) is curved outwards at the top and has the curvature (7) at the bottom. Example
[0019] An exemplary embodiment of the invention is described in more detail below with reference to the drawings. In all drawings, the same reference numerals have the same meaning and are therefore explained only once if necessary.
[0020] It shows Fig. 1 the bottle body according to the invention in the assembled state, Fig. 2 the bottle body (1), the bottle cap (2), the holding device (3) and the TAG (4) in an individual representation, Fig. 3 a detailed view of the bottle body according to Fig. 1 showing the gearing, Fig. 4 a detailed view of the mounting device (3) according to Fig. 2 showing the gearing, Fig. 5 the holding device (3) with a detailed representation of the centering point (12), Fig. 6 the rotor-shaped plastic part (13), Fig. 7 the inside of the holder device (3) with the built-in rotor-shaped plastic part (13) and Fig. 8 the bottom of the holder device (3) with the magnetic metal ring (14) on the bottom of the holder device (3). Short description of the characters
[0021] Fig. 1: Bottle body in assembled state. In this state, the reusable sample bottle goes through the process from sample collection to laboratory / testing. The dimensions of the sample bottle shown in Fig. 1 correspond to the standard sampling dimensions used in the dairy industry and can therefore be processed without modification, further supporting the ecological aspect. No resource-wasting adjustments or disposal of standard processing equipment are necessary.
[0022] Fig. 2: Bottle body (1), bottle cap (2), holding device (3) and TAG (4) in individual representation. The interaction of the special locking mechanism of the holding device (3) with the bottle body is in Fig. 2. The TAG (4) is placed on the centering point in the holder (3), ensuring a secure position. The closure mechanism, including the filling of the interior with adhesive, ensures optimal tightness and supports the longevity of the technology used in the TAG (4). The optional bottle cap (2), with its rounded fit, provides an optimal closure mechanism that protects the sample.
[0023] Fig. 2: Assembly of a sample bottle. The bottle body (1) is made of a plastic such as polypropylene or polyethylene and corresponds in shape, dimensions, and material to the conventional sample bottles used in large numbers for milk sampling.
[0024] First, the TAG (4) is inserted into the holder (3), and the cavity is filled with adhesive to prevent moisture from entering. The bottle body (1) is then pressed into the holder (3) with a force of at least 50 kg. This corresponds to a click mechanism. The special locking mechanism connects the bottle body (1) and the holder (3). Any moisture ingress is significantly prevented by the locking mechanism underlying the invention.
[0025] The circumferential surface between the curvature 7 ( Fig. 3) and the bottle base, with a height of 7 mm, was chosen to ensure sufficient adhesive distribution over the entire surface, thus ensuring a secure seal. This connection cannot initially be broken by muscle force, thus preventing unwanted intervention and tampering.
[0026] Based on the very low production costs of the sample bottle model shown, including the TAG and the special holding device (3), it is cheaper to dispose of the bottle in case of a defect in the TAG itself than to repair the TAG.
[0027] Fig. 3: Detailed view of the bottle body (Fig. (1)) showing the toothing
[0028] The locking mechanism between the specimen and the holding device (3) ( Fig. 2) is essential for the lifetime of the TAG (4) ( Fig. 2). The integrity of the TAG (4) can only be ensured by an airtight seal and by filling the cavity of the holder (3) with adhesive. Fig. Figure 3 shows the circumferential protrusion (bulge) (7) on the bottle body, which plays an important role in the closure mechanism. The tightness of the holding device has been confirmed in laboratory tests.
[0029] Fig. 4: Detailed view of the mounting device (3) according to Fig. 2 with representation of the toothing The centering point (12) on the holding device, which also acts as a link for the TAG (4), is in Fig. 4. Any change in the position of the TAG (4) is prevented by this centering point and the aforementioned filling of the cavity. The toothed grooves 8, 9 on the mounting device fit exactly into the groove (7) ( Fig. 3) so that an airtight seal can be achieved.
[0030] Fig. 5: Detailed view of the centering point (12). The centering point is crucial for the use of a scanning process in the process. For example, if a barcode label is attached to the recess on the bottle body, the bottle must be rotated during the scan, for which the centering point is used as a technical aid. Inside the holder device (3) ( Fig. 2) The bulge is also very important, as it stabilizes the position of the TAG (4). This prevents the TAG from moving and, for example, from sustaining lasting damage if the bottle falls to the ground.
[0031] Fig. 6: Detailed view of the rotor-shaped plastic part (13) The rotor-shaped plastic part (13) secures the magnetic metal ring (14) within the holder (3). The centering point (12) is located centrally. Its convex shape ensures the correct positioning of the tag (4) on the inside, and its concave shape ensures the precise positioning of the sample bottle in a reading unit on the outside.
[0032] Fig. 7: Detailed view of the mounting device (3) - inside The inside view of the holder device (3) shows the magnetic metal ring (14) which is fixed by the rotor-shaped plastic part (13).
[0033] Fig. 8: Detailed view of the mounting device (3) - outside The external view of the holder device (3) shows the magnetic metal ring (14) and the concave centering point (12).
[0034] Fig. 9: Detailed view of the components in the mounting device (3) The illustration shows the mounting device (3) with the components inside: • Magnetic metal ring (14) • rotor-shaped plastic part (13) for fixing the metal ring (14) with the centering point (12) • DAY (4) Detailed description of the structure of the sample bottle, especially milk sample bottle
[0035] The sample bottle ( Fig. 2) consists of a reusable bottle body (1), a bottle cap (2), a circular centrally placed recess on the bottle body (6), a colored holder device (3) for the electronic component (4) and the magnetic metal ring (14) ( Fig. 7) itself, which is placed in the holder (3). An electronic read / write memory component (4) (TAG) is also located in the holder. The use of the bottle cap (2) can be considered optional, depending on the intended use.
[0036] The challenge of ensuring sample bottle reusability is to ensure that no liquid penetrates the holder for the metal ring (14) or the TAG (4) during the cleaning process. Therefore, a key focus for this sample container is the tightness of the bottom cap to ensure multiple use. Another key focus is the magnetic metal ring (14), which is made of V4A metal and manufactured in one piece using a CNC machine.
[0037] The metal ring (14) has a magnetic pulling force of 1.27 g / mm 2 It thus meets the requirements of existing transport and laboratory technology systems.
[0038] As in Fig. 7 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 8, the metal ring (14) has a different radius at the top and bottom. The upper radius of the ring is marginally larger than the lower radius. The metal ring (14) is fixed to the holding device by inserting it, with the narrower radius first, from the inside into the holding device ( Fig. 7). The narrow radius fits exactly into the free opening of the holder ( Fig. 8) and is visible from the outside of the holder. The larger radius ensures sealing from the inside of the holder and also ensures that the metal ring is firmly fixed in the holder and cannot fall out. In addition, a rotor-shaped plastic part (13) ( Fig. 6) is fixed via the internal metal ring, so that the metal ring is also secured inside the holding device. The centering point (12) is located in the center of the rotor-shaped plastic part (13). Its convex shape ensures the correct positioning of the tag (4) on the inside, and its concave shape ensures the precise positioning of the sample bottle in a reading unit on the outside. The entire cavity is then sealed with an adhesive, into which the TAG (4) is hermetically embedded. This compaction prevents the penetration of liquids, protects against bacteria or mold, and thus ensures compliance with hygiene regulations and the protection of the electronic component itself. The sample bottle (1) and the holding device (3) are then assembled (views Fig. 6 and Fig. 7).
[0039] The sample bottle is made of plastic (e.g., polypropylene or polyethylene). Its manufacturing process can therefore be characterized as very inexpensive. The low weight also significantly reduces transport costs. The properties outlined above support multiple use in the process chain, thus meeting society's contemporary desire for a sustainable solution. The use of disposable plastic bottles and their disposal are subject to intense social debate and criticism for environmental reasons, so the image-enhancing effect of this reusable solution can be considered a clear competitive advantage. The weight of the metal ring is also considered appropriate for the requirements and thus also supports environmentally friendly and cost-effective transport.The metal ring (14) is made of V4A metal, which is very hard, but in its pure form, due to its atomic arrangement, actually has no magnetic properties. However, in a special manufacturing process, this atomic arrangement is modified to subsequently impart magnetic properties. This results in a tensile force of 1.27 g / mm. 2 guaranteed.
[0040] The fit of the bottle neck (5) in Fig. 2 is precisely tailored to the bottle cap (2). The bottle neck (5) slopes slightly outward toward the end. The smooth surface of the inside of the bottle neck (5) supports easy attachment of the cap (2) without great effort and ensures tightness. The fit is specifically designed for positioning in any stands or transport containers in the dairy industry or testing laboratory.
[0041] The desire to make samples identifiable using modern technology such as the "TAG" is not new. The aim is to use digitalization through the use of a TAG (4) to prevent human error in the form of sample mix-ups. It also facilitates the data-driven and automated processing of analysis results for subsequent processes. The conversion from barcode / QR code to the TAG (4) will be carried out gradually, so that proven technology for bottle identification will continue to be used during the transition. This process involves the circular application of an optical marking to the recess in the bottle body (6). This recess, which already exists on the standard sample bottle, has previously served as the only identification option via barcode or QR code.However, this method has the disadvantage that a direct line of sight must always be maintained between the scanner and the code. In the future, the bottle will therefore continue to contain the proven recess, which could then optionally contain additional coded information in the form of a barcode, QR code, color code, or plain text marking in addition to the main identification method via TAG (4).
[0042] To ensure the even rotation of the sample bottle for the smooth reading of coded additional information, a hole was made in the bottom of the holder (12) ( Fig. 5). This serves as a centering point for the sample bottle, keeping it in the same position on the conveyor belt while it rotates around its axis. This recess is also necessary to ensure that the signal from the TAG (4) can still be read from below through the opening in the magnetic metal ring (14).
[0043] In addition, the metal ring (14) at the bottom of the holder reduces abrasion caused by the conveyor belt compared to a pure plastic base. This feature further contributes to sustainability and extends the service life of each sample bottle.
[0044] However, the major challenge with technical components and their use in environments with liquids always lies in the tightness or protection of the component, on which the nature of the mounting device shown is based according to the invention.
[0045] The holding device (3) enables robust attachment of the TAG (4) to the bottle body (1) and can only be returned to its original position by forced demolding using high force. This property serves the aforementioned protection of the TAG (4), ensuring that it remains shielded from any external influences and does not come into contact with liquids, even during the cleaning process of the reusable sample bottle or in a water bath. However, the holding device (3) can be attached using muscle power, so that the construction can be assembled once by hand and used flexibly on site. Only the removal cannot be performed using muscle power alone, which prevents manipulation of the chip and damage. The holding device (3) is made of plastic to keep the weight of the sample bottle low, in contrast to a holding device made of metal.This is particularly important when transporting large numbers of bottles. The use of a metal ring (14), which requires less material than a closed disc, also contributes to lower production costs for the sample bottles and a low overall weight.
[0046] The interaction between the bottle body (1) and the holding device (3) is in Fig. 2. The diameter of the TAG (4) corresponds exactly to the inner diameter of the mounting device, so that the range of movement of the TAG (4) is limited. In addition, there is a recess on the TAG (4), which is located exactly at the bulge of the centering point (12) ( Fig. 5) is oriented on the holding device (3). This fixed position of the TAG (4) at the base of the holding device, as well as the centering point in the hole (12) of the magnetic metal ring (14), provide the basis for a largely error-free process in the automated identification process at the feeding station of the examination unit, since an identical read / write range is maintained at all times for the same bottle position, and the TAG (4) cannot slip.
[0047] In addition to the exact vertical fit of the TAG (4), the gaps between the holder (3) and the bottle body (1) are also precisely aligned. The grooves (10) were, as shown in Fig. 4, has been optimized so that the bulge (7) on the bottle body (1) fits into the bulges (8) and (9) on the holding device. It was specifically designed so that both the grooves and the bulges run around the entire bottle body. The dimensions of the grooves and bulges were selected after extensive testing. This is the only way to ensure that this closure mechanism ensures tightness in the base cap, which is of enormous importance for hygiene, data quality, and data provision. At the same time, the closure mechanism described above protects the TAG (4) from tampering.
[0048] This ensures that the base containing the TAG (4) cannot be manually removed from the body of the reusable sample bottle. Furthermore, it is impossible to reassemble the bottle base and body after mechanical damage.
[0049] In addition, the overall stability of the sample bottle base is high. The center of gravity of the sample bottle is lowered thanks to the magnetic metal ring, thus improving the stability of the sample bottle.
[0050] The use of this plug-in system not only offers the advantage of excluding liquid during the cleaning process of the reusable sample bottle; the production costs for this closure mechanism are also significantly lower than manufacturing a thread. The same applies to the assembly of the bottle with a TAG (4). The construction of the bottle body (1), magnetic metal ring (14), and holder device (3) serves as the basis for an automated identification process, which can be characterized as inexpensive, durable, and reliable, also due to falling costs for storage electronics.
[0051] This virtually airtight seal is an effective preventative measure against unwanted external influences, such as contaminated liquids or contamination, which could falsify the analysis result or damage the TAG (4). As a further protective mechanism, specifically against condensation, the holder (3) is sealed airtight with adhesive on the bottle body. Filling the entire holder (3) with the adhesive thus counteracts the condensation of any liquid that has penetrated it and prevents contamination. It should also be emphasized that filling the holder (3) also has the advantage of completely preventing the sample bottle from floating, for example in a water bath. This prevents the sample from tipping over in the water bath and becoming contaminated.
[0052] The holder (3) is currently designed in blue. However, in the future, a different color for this holder (3) will be an additional coding option. Thus, for example, different colors depending on the industry or major customer are conceivable – even different colors depending on the frequency range of the RFID chip are an option. The different color requests only marginally impact production costs, but offer significant benefits for both samplers and customers through the additional visual coding.
[0053] Since sample bottles are not disposable products, the TAG (4) adapts to this situation as best as possible and can be used multiple times. The invention is based on the idea of using the TAG (4) as a data carrier for changeable sample data and for identification multiple times (rewritable), and achieving simple yet protected positioning of the storage component on the sample bottle through the sealed holding device (3). Its protected position within the holding device (3) protects it from external influences such as UV radiation or detergents during the cleaning process. In this way, the sample bottle represents a "green" reusable solution, is not a disposable product and benefits the environment. The exclusion of external influences in the holding device and the filling of the cavity drastically extend the service life of the electronic component.Therefore, the mounting device (3) can be used universally for all TAGs (4) and supports all frequency ranges. Future developments can therefore accommodate not only high-frequency TAGs, but also ultra-high-frequency TAGs (4). Other frequency ranges are also possible. Operation and use of the sample bottle, especially the milk sample bottle...
[0054] The operation of the invention is explained in detail below: The reusable sample bottle according to the invention is used, among other things, in the dairy industry, particularly for sampling in milk collection trucks and for testing the samples in the testing laboratory. For this purpose, the samples must be traceable and clearly identifiable. This ensures compliance with required testing standards. Thousands of these sample bottles are required every day, so the reusable aspect, taking into account environmental friendliness, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness, is particularly important. On the one hand, the reusable aspect keeps acquisition costs permanently low, and on the other hand, the focus on environmental protection and sustainability represents a clear advantage in today's competitive environment.
[0055] Technically speaking, the TAG (4) – also called an RFID chip – consists of a chip and a coil. Data and energy transmission occurs contactlessly (using the principle of induction). Adjusting the coil windings results in a change in the antenna frequency, allowing the read / write range to be individually adjusted as needed without changing the external shape (diameter). This technology therefore represents significant flexibility in the process model and can be customized as needed. A functional expansion of the TAG is planned within the scope of technical possibilities and requirements.
[0056] The individual sample bottles are identified by reading the data stored on the tag (4). The tag therefore functions both for identification and as a storage device. Suitable for the present invention would be, for example, high-frequency chips with a standard frequency of 13.56 kHz. These tags are also suitable for use at higher temperatures, e.g., for positioning within a water bath or during the cleaning process. Naturally, any equivalent read / write memory components can be used based on the invention.
[0057] The identification process using the TAG (4) integrated into the holder (3) can be classified as extremely reliable and secure. Upon request, encryption of the stored data, such as the client, sample data, time information, location, etc., is easily possible. Furthermore, all processes are recorded, ensuring a complete data history for the sample. The stored data can also be graphically processed for the client / client as part of analysis orders and forwarded via control devices or databases. Any defects in the substance can be reported to the client based on data. Furthermore, the identification process of the reusable sample bottle can be mapped in real time, allowing the customer to track their order and its results, including all data on time, location, etc., in live tracking. This can also be actively integrated into existing quality management systems.Important decisions, such as taking samples from an animal's milk, can be made quickly and clearly, thus accelerating the process. Additional orders can be forwarded to the laboratory via the TAG.
[0058] The reusability of the reusable sample bottle can be considered a decisive competitive advantage from an economic perspective. However, this classification does not merely refer to the pure production costs of the bottle. The design of the sample bottle also promotes the aspect of economic efficiency, since the invention is based on the idea of not changing the original parameters of the existing, commercially available sample bottle by combining the bottle body (1) and the holder (3). By maintaining the external dimensions, neither transport devices nor stands, boxes, feed stations, etc., need to be adapted accordingly. Here, too, there is no need to modify or dispose of "old" equipment in connection with the new bottles.The recess (6) previously used in industry is also still part of the bottle, so that during the transition phase to the TAG system the existing method of scanning an optical label can still be used or, as mentioned, this can function as a storage location for additional information. The reusable sample bottle shown therefore meets the "universal stand system", which simplifies a potential changeover process and makes it significantly easier to use in all laboratories, especially for milk testing. Retaining the bottle dimensions as well as the recess for the barcode and the centering point (12) for the all-round scanner enable the bottle to be used without major mechanical or process adjustments. In this way, the usual users can use the new reusable sample bottle without any problems. This also applies to suppliers or ancillary processes, such as, for example,For the cleaning process of the sample bottles, no adjustments are necessary because the dimensions are retained. Upon customer request, the bottle can also be manufactured in other dimensions without compromising or precluding the functions described in the invention.
[0059] Sample identifiability is guaranteed throughout the entire value chain in the dairy industry and in the testing laboratory, not least thanks to the universal stand system. At all relevant stations, e.g. • Tanker in dairy, • Sampling at the dairy farm, • Laboratory, • Conveyor belt testing equipment, etc., can guarantee sample identification and promote direct compliance with quality standards. The mounting device (3) not only enables multiple use and ensures leak-tightness, but also prevents unauthorized and tampering with the data flow through its irreversible attachment. Further additional information on the reusable sample bottle according to the invention
[0060] It is an identifiable magnetic reusable sample bottle with the help of an integrated TAG in a special holder device to protect against hygienic contamination.
[0061] The term "TAG" is used in this document according to the current state of the art for an RFID chip in the high-frequency / ultra-high-frequency range. It is assumed that the term "TAG" is to be applied in the context of this application in accordance with the current state of the art. It may therefore also encompass other technologies and frequency ranges in the future.
[0062] The invention preferably relates to a magnetic reusable sample bottle ( Fig. 1), in particular a milk sample bottle, which can be clearly identified in the process by being equipped with an electronic component within a special holder. In addition, the sample bottle also has a magnetic metal ring at the bottom of the holder. The design of the sample bottle is based on Fig. 2 as follows: • Bottle body (1), • Bottle caps (2), • Bottleneck (5), • Holding device (3) for a magnetic metal ring ( Fig. 7 (14)) and an electronic component, for protection against hygienic contamination • electronic read-write memory component (also called TAG) (4) • circular recess in the middle of the bottle body (6) for applying an optical marking
[0063] The TAG enables the provision of the desired sample identification data as well as the storage and reading of variable product and delivery data. Thanks to the reusable design of the sample bottle, the TAG can be reused as often as required. The magnetic metal ring (14) mounted in the holder (3) ensures reliable fixation through magnetic interaction with the conveyor belt.
[0064] The reusable sample bottle according to the invention with a magnetic base, in particular a milk sample bottle, with a bottle body (1), a holding device (3), a magnetic metal ring (14) and a read / write memory component (4), is preferably also characterized in that the electronic read / write memory component (4) is placed in the holding device (3) for identifying the sample bottle and for storing the variable sample and analysis data, as is the magnetic metal ring, which contributes significantly to a reliable fixation of the sample bottle on a conveyor belt.
[0065] It is also advantageous if • as an electronic component, a circular TAG (4) is placed in a form-fitting manner in the circular holding device (3), • the holding device (3) is positioned below the bottle body (1) and • the holding device (3) and the bottle body (1) are made of plastic (e.g. polypropylene or polyethylene). List of reference symbols 1 bottle body 2 bottle caps 3 Holding device for a magnetic metal ring (14) and an electronic component (4) 4 electronic read-write memory component (also called TAG) 5 Bottleneck 6 circular centrally placed recesses on the bottle body 7 Curvature 8 Bulge, toothing groove 9 Bulge, toothing groove 10 grooves 11 Base (11) of the mounting device (3) 12 Centering point 13 rotor-shaped plastic part 14 magnetic metal ring
Claims
[1] Sample bottle, in particular a milk sample bottle, with a bottle body (1) and a holding device (3) of the bottle body (1), wherein the holding device (3) has an electronic TAG (4) and a base (11), wherein the base (11) of the holding device (3) is cup-shaped and has a magnetic metal ring (14), characterized by that the cup-shaped base (11) of the holding device (3) is completely filled with adhesive, that the holding device (3) is hermetically sealed with respect to the bottle body (1) and that the electronic TAG (4) is arranged within the holding device (3). [2] Sample bottle according to claim 1, characterized by that the magnetic metal ring (14) is arranged on the underside of the holding device (3). [3] Sample bottle according to claim 1, characterized bythat the inner circumferential surface of the holding device (3) with the base (11) lies sealingly against a circumferential curvature (7) on the underside of the bottle body (1). [4] Sample bottle according to claim 1, characterized by that the outer underside of the holding device (3) has a centrally and recessed centering point (12). [5] Sample bottle according to claim 1, characterized by that the metal ring (14) has a different radius at the top and bottom. [6] Sample bottle according to claim 1, characterized by that the holding device (3) is provided with two bulges (8) and (9) and interlocks with the bulge (7) on the lower part of the bottle body (1). [7] Sample bottle according to claim 3, characterized by that the bottle body (1) is curved outwards at the top and has the curvature (7) at the bottom.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Sample bottle, especially a milk sample bottle
EP3798151A1