Method and apparatus for inspecting containers equipped with fittings

Abstract

Method for inspecting containers (1) wherein a fitting is attached to at least one surface area of ​​an outer wall of a container, wherein this fitting (10) comprises at least one carrierless fitting element and preferably a plurality of fitting elements (10a, 10b, 10c) which are at least partially not connected to each other, characterized in that this surface area equipped with this at least one fitting element or with these fitting elements (10a, 10b, 10c) is inspected by means of an inspection device (4) and at least one characteristic value (A) is output which is characteristic of at least one property characteristic of the first fitting element.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and a device for inspecting equipped containers, in particular liquid containers and in particular beverage containers.

[0002] Numerous such methods and devices are known from the state of the art.

[0003] In the context of the present invention, equipping containers means, in particular, providing the containers with labels and / or imprints. These labels and / or imprints are applied, in particular, to a peripheral wall of the containers.

[0004] EP 2 290 355 A2 discloses a device and method for inspecting labeled containers. A lighting device is provided, which has at least two separately controllable fluorescent screens. A label is known from EP 3 612 452. EP 0 820 933 B1 describes a labeling machine.

[0005] Today, quality control of the labeling process, decoration process (hereinafter also referred to as the finishing process), or even a printing process is usually carried out by camera-based inspection units. These check various aspects after the labeling process, such as whether the label is correctly positioned or whether the label design is correct.

[0006] To determine the correct position (X / Y) and orientation (°) of a traditional label, it is sufficient to check the position and orientation of a prominent (partial) spot on the label or the decorative element. Since all decorative elements are firmly connected to the label base material, such as paper or plastic, the correct positioning of the entire label can be determined from at least one prominent spot.

[0007] The correct label design as a whole can be assessed based on characteristic, meaningful points. For example, it is sufficient to identify a meaningful 1D or 2D code and read a unique alphanumeric label ID number to identify the entire label as such.

[0008] If an error is detected, the entire system reacts, for example, by rejecting the incorrectly labeled bottles and / or by counteracting the error if possible.

[0009] In the applicant's internal state of the art, finishing processes have become known in which not an entire label is applied but rather individual finishing elements which, however, are advantageously not connected to one another.

[0010] Another innovative finishing or decoration process uses a new type of decor. This no longer has the base material described in the "state of the art," meaning that the decor in this case consists only of paint and adhesive and is therefore particularly susceptible to tearing, folding, small pieces becoming detached, etc., during the entire processing process.

[0011] The inspection of a classic label today does not include whether all individual elements of the individual decoration to be transferred are present and complete.

[0012] Nor is it checked whether the individual elements of the individual decorations have been transferred to the container completely, undamaged, undistorted (and / or flawless, such as without cracks or the like).

[0013] Furthermore, it is not checked whether all individual elements of the individual decoration to be transferred are correctly positioned in relation to one another, particularly in the running direction of the objects to be decorated, with regard to horizontal and vertical position and angular alignment and / or are correctly positioned in relation to one another.

[0014] Furthermore, no check is made to ensure that all the individual elements of the individual design to be transferred are correct (especially their content) and that they reflect the correct information. This applies in particular to so-called legal text, such as the alcohol content. If it were 12% and the 1% was not transferred, the container would show 2% instead.

[0015] Furthermore, there is no testing to determine whether the individual elements, and preferably all of them, are dimensionally accurate. For example, as the applicant discovered in experiments, stretching of the compressions may occur during the application of the fittings.

[0016] In addition, the inspection systems known from the state of the art as well as the corresponding labelling devices or equipment devices are not able to react appropriately to incorrect positioning of the individual elements relative to one another.

[0017] The present invention is therefore based on the object of improving the inspection of containers, in particular for containers which have a large number of equipment elements.

[0018] This object is achieved according to the invention by the subject matter of the independent patent claims. Advantageous embodiments and further developments are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0019] In a method according to the invention for inspecting containers, a feature is applied to at least one surface area of ​​an outer wall of a container, said feature comprising at least one support-free feature element and / or preferably a plurality of feature elements which are at least partially unconnected to one another. In the simplest case, however, it would also be possible to apply only one (in particular support-free) feature element. "Support-free" is understood in particular to mean that the feature element itself is applied to the container and, in particular, that the feature element is not arranged on a support.

[0020] Preferably, none of the equipment elements is connected to any other equipment element. Preferably, the equipment does not have a support connecting the individual equipment elements. Therefore, the equipment elements are preferably attached individually and / or individually to the surface area.

[0021] According to the invention, this surface area of ​​this at least one equipment element or of the surface area equipped with these equipment elements is inspected by means of an inspection device and at least one characteristic value is output which is characteristic of at least one property characteristic of the equipment element (or of these equipment elements).

[0022] This means that the property in question is preferably characteristic of the equipment element in question and that, in turn, the characteristic value is characteristic of the property in question.

[0023] In the context of this application, the term "outfitting" is used, but sometimes the term "decorating" is also used. These two terms are considered synonymous.

[0024] In a further preferred method, the characteristic value may also be characteristic of a fault condition of an equipment element or the equipment, for example distortions, cracks and the like.

[0025] In a preferred method, the property is a property that is individually characteristic of the first equipment element.

[0026] This means that this property only identifies the first feature and not other features, meaning that the first feature is examined individually. Preferably, several features are examined individually, and preferably several such characteristic values ​​are output.

[0027] In a preferred method, the property is a property that is individually characteristic of the first equipment element.

[0028] This means that this property only identifies the first feature and not other features, meaning that the first feature is examined individually. Preferably, several features are examined individually, and preferably several such characteristic values ​​are output.

[0029] In a preferred method, the characteristic value is characteristic of a position of a first equipment element with respect to the surface area and / or a position of a first equipment element with respect to a second equipment element.

[0030] The invention can therefore be applied when several features are applied to the container, but it is also possible to apply it when only one (in particular strapless) feature is applied.

[0031] The invention is therefore also applicable when only one equipment element is present, rather than multiple equipment elements. If the equipment element is damaged, it (or the container in question) can be removed, and if necessary, the equipment process can be intervened with control or regulation technology, preventing future damage.

[0032] In another preferred method, the characteristic value is characteristic of the correspondence between an actual condition of the equipment element and a desired condition of the equipment element, preferably for the condition / deviation of the contour of the equipment element. If the contour deviation is within a specified threshold (preferably -0.2 mm, but also between -0.2 mm and -0.5 mm), the characteristic value is output.

[0033] In the context of this patent application, "features" are understood to mean, in particular, decoration, but also markings that contain information, such as names, numbers, letters, or codes. Preferably, the features and / or features are visually perceptible elements that are applied to the surface of the container. However, in the context of the present invention, they preferably do not include further features such as a container closure.

[0034] In a preferred method, the property is a property that is individually characteristic of the first equipment element.

[0035] This means that this property only characterizes the first feature and not other features, meaning that the first feature is examined individually. Preferably, several features are examined individually, and preferably several such characteristic values ​​are output.

[0036] While the prior art does not provide any possibility to detect the various system tolerances (bottle tolerances, feed tolerances, label element tolerances...) in advance and to adjust them (during and / or between production operations), the invention proposes a possibility for such a control.

[0037] In addition, an option is created to adjust the individual elements or equipment elements to a target distance after they have been placed if there is a trend deviation from the target distance.

[0038] The inspection device preferably records several, and particularly preferably all, relevant data necessary for control (of the equipment device). This data is preferably selected from a group of data that includes a position and / or orientation of the equipment elements (of an individual decoration or of a piece of equipment relative to each other), a rotational position of the equipment elements, and / or an actual shape of the equipment elements.

[0039] The inspection facility also preferentially records all elements / individual elements that are important for the effect and message of the decor, in particular texts, brand messages, legal notices, ingredients and proportions, etc., for completeness and accuracy.

[0040] The reason is the sensitivity of this decoration process described above, in particular the sensitivity of the decoration to be applied, since this lacks the carrier material usually used for labels (paper labels => paper; plastic labels => plastic film).

[0041] If deviations are detected by the recording system and a characteristic value is generated, the signal is passed on to, for example, a container rejection system in order to separate intolerable deviations from the good product flow and not process them further.

[0042] Alternatively (in particular deviations with a trend, individual deviations or similar), the system (in particular a control device of the equipment and / or the entire system) preferably adjusts these deviations (preferably in the direction of travel). This can be done, for example, via a servo control or similar.

[0043] Preferably, the inspection device records several and preferably all relevant data necessary for control, such as a position and / or location of the equipment elements relative to one another.

[0044] This detection can preferably be carried out directly in the labeling device or the equipment. Here, the orientation of the containers with respect to their vertical axis remains essentially unchanged.

[0045] A preferred method involves applying the label to already filled and sealed containers. However, it would be conceivable, particularly with plastic containers, to also apply the label to empty containers.

[0046] Preferably, printing is done on empty containers so that in the event of a misprint, only the container itself, not the product, needs to be destroyed. However, both are technically possible.

[0047] It is also possible to perform the scanning only after the containers have been transferred, for example, to a subsequent transport device. Since the container alignment is usually no longer guaranteed at this point, a 360-degree scanning with corresponding evaluation is preferred in this case.

[0048] In addition, due to the longer transport route, the time constants for the control are significantly higher.

[0049] The control system can use only a distance value between two equipment elements of the decor as an input variable, but also a combination of different values ​​(e.g. several distance values, information on a rotational position of one or more equipment elements and the like).

[0050] The control can act on several containers simultaneously, e.g. by varying the transport speed during application, but also on individual containers, e.g. by varying the rotation speed during application or by a combination thereof.

[0051] In addition, it would also be conceivable to achieve a change by varying the transfer speeds of the decorations to the respective containers to be decorated. Alternatively or additionally, adjusting certain positioning systems of the application would also be conceivable.

[0052] Preferably, the detection and control and / or regulation (of the equipment) are performed jointly on a single computer unit. However, it would also be conceivable for these processes to be performed in separate systems, e.g., in an inspection system for detection and in a machine control system for regulation, which can communicate via a suitable interface.

[0053] In the novel application or labeling method covered by this application, the components of the label are applied to a carrier layer. The components of the label are enriched with an adhesive layer. The adhesive layer is preferably applied to the side of the components facing away from the carrier layer. Alternatively, the adhesive layer is applied to the side of the components facing the carrier layer.

[0054] When applying the components to the container, during the labeling process, or during the decoration or finishing process, the components are removed from the carrier tape and applied to the containers without any backing material. The adhesive layer forms a firm bond with the container and permanently fixes the label elements.

[0055] The carrier layer with the label is preferably inserted into the labeling machine as a roll containing many "labels." The carrier material is preferably retained at the labeling machine, collected, and disposed of.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment, the equipment and / or equipment elements are visually and / or haptically perceptible.

[0057] Particularly preferably, the fittings are made of a plastic material. The container is also preferably made of a plastic material. However, the use of a glass container would also be conceivable. The container can also be a metal container, such as a can, or even a container made of fibers.

[0058] In another preferred method, the equipment elements are applied to the containers starting from a carrier element, preferably a carrier tape. This means that the equipment elements are preferably initially located on a carrier tape, and this carrier tape is preferably brought to the containers to be equipped, thus transferring the equipment elements from the carrier tape to the container.

[0059] In this case, the carrier tape is preferably guided over an edge for the purpose of applying the finishing elements. Alternatively, the carrier tape is guided over rotating bodies and transfer elements located thereon (e.g., a transfer drum) for the purpose of applying the finishing elements.

[0060] Preferably, the features are selected from a group of features that include QR codes, barcodes, numbers, letters, image elements, and the like. The features can also be colored.

[0061] In another preferred method, it is determined whether all the equipment elements that should be present according to a specification are actually present. This preferably involves comparing a target configuration of the equipment elements with an actual configuration. In this way, it can be verified whether a complete transfer of all equipment elements, a complete transfer of each individual equipment element, or a complete transfer of only one equipment element to the container has taken place. If it is determined that individual equipment elements are missing, the container in question can be rejected and / or the fitting process can be reviewed.

[0062] If the individual decoration element is incomplete, damaged, torn, or similar, the container in question can or must be rejected. At the same time, the corresponding characteristic value could be used to regulate or control the decoration process accordingly, for example, by adjusting or controlling a contact pressure, a relative transfer speed (the speed curve between the decoration element and the container during the contacting process), or other adjustment options.

[0063] In a further preferred method, it is checked whether the individual equipment elements are arranged at a desired position (on the container and / or with respect to one another) and / or whether the individual equipment elements are arranged in a desired rotational position on the container (and / or with respect to one another).

[0064] In another preferred method, it is checked whether a design element actually applied to the container corresponds to a design element to be applied to the container. For example, a design element, such as a barcode, can indicate the liquid contained in the container. In this way, it can be determined whether the design element correctly indicates the liquid contained in the container.

[0065] In another preferred method, the actual shape of a design element is compared with a desired shape. This allows, for example, the compression or stretching of the design element actually attached to the container, or the completeness of the contour of the design element, to be checked or determined. In other words, it is possible, for example, to check whether the actual shape of a label, the combination of design elements, or even an individual design element, corresponds to a desired combination or a desired shape.

[0066] When checking contours, deviations in the range of -0.2 mm to -0.5 mm from the target contour are particularly preferred. This allows the system to detect both very fine deviations and massive deviations.

[0067] In a further preferred method, equipment elements are attached and in particular glued to the surface of the container.

[0068] Particularly preferably, the surface of the container is an outer circumference. In particular, the container surface is a circumferential surface and, in particular, a cylindrical or frustoconical surface.

[0069] In another preferred method, the surface area of ​​the container to which the decorative elements are attached is a smooth or slightly curved surface. However, it is also conceivable for the attachment to take place on surfaces with a certain degree of roughness (e.g., orange peel), since the adhesive layer applied to the decorative elements can compensate for certain roughnesses.

[0070] The absence of a carrier material allows the transferred decorations / decorative elements to adapt more easily to curved surfaces. These are therefore less prone to wrinkling or similar problems. Transitions from smooth surfaces to these curves are preferably smooth and flowing, and edges should be avoided.

[0071] Due to the lack of a carrier material, this type of finish can be a preferred alternative to so-called "No Label Look" labels (NLL-E). NLL-E labels are characterized by a flat, transparent base material and partially printed areas. It is known in the art that NNL-E labels tend to cause air pockets when applied to uneven surfaces. These air pockets, with their two additional optical boundary transitions from medium to air and vice versa, are very clearly visible to the naked eye. Therefore, when applying an NLL-E label, care is taken to ensure that it does not, for example, lie over the so-called press seam of the container. The situation is different with this type of finish. In particular, due to the design principle, no air pockets can form between the label elements.

[0072] In a further preferred method, at least one equipment element has a predetermined minimum distance from at least one further equipment element and preferably from each further equipment element.

[0073] This minimum distance is particularly preferably greater than 0.5 mm, preferably greater than 1 mm, and particularly preferably greater than 1.5 mm. In another preferred method, this minimum distance is less than 30 mm, preferably less than 25 mm, preferably less than 20 millimeters, and preferably less than 15 mm.

[0074] Preferably, limit values ​​are established within which a determined actual minimum distance should lie with respect to a target minimum distance between two equipment elements. If inspection reveals that an actual minimum distance lies outside these limits, countermeasures can be initiated.

[0075] In a further preferred method, the inspection is carried out by means of an image recording device, which preferably records at least one spatially resolved image of the surface provided with equipment elements.

[0076] Preferably, the image is captured immediately after the containers have been loaded. "Immediately" means that the image is captured within a period of less than 10 seconds, preferably less than 8 seconds, preferably less than 6 seconds, preferably less than 5 seconds after the loading.

[0077] Particularly preferably, the surface is illuminated, and in particular also illuminated during the recording by means of the image recording device. In another preferred method, the surface is illuminated using white light. Particularly preferably, the surface is illuminated using directed and / or diffuse radiation, and in particular using directed and / or diffuse light.

[0078] Particularly preferably, the image is captured using a reflected-light method. Particularly preferably, the illumination device is a flash lamp, which illuminates the surface area of ​​the container (provided with the equipment elements) at least for the duration of the image capture.

[0079] In a further preferred method, the surface is recorded by several image recording devices.

[0080] Particularly preferably, a captured image of the surface provided with the equipment elements is compared with at least one reference image. This preferably determines whether all equipment elements are present and / or whether the equipment elements have the correct position, the correct rotational orientation, and / or the correct distance from other equipment elements.

[0081] In a further preferred method, a geometric shape of at least one equipment element and preferably several equipment elements is detected.

[0082] In a further preferred method, the characteristic value is selected from a group of characteristic values ​​which includes a characteristic value which is for a position of the equipment element relative to the surface area in a longitudinal direction of the container, for a position of the equipment element relative to the surface area in a circumferential direction of the container, for a position of an equipment element relative to another equipment element in the longitudinal direction of the container, for a position of the equipment element relative to another equipment element in a circumferential direction of the container, for a rotational position of the equipment element relative to the surface area, for a rotational position of the equipment element relative to another equipment element, for a distortion of the equipment element, for a deformation of the equipment element, for a compression of the equipment element, for an extension of the equipment element,for the presence of the equipment element, for the information content of the equipment element, for the conformity of an actual condition of the equipment element with a target condition of the equipment element, or combinations thereof.

[0083] Particularly preferably, several such characteristic values ​​are recorded. For example, one characteristic value can be recorded that is characteristic of a position of a first equipment element relative to a second equipment element, another characteristic value that is characteristic of a position of the first equipment element relative to a third equipment element, and one or more characteristic values ​​that are characteristic of rotational positions of several equipment elements.

[0084] Preferably, the characteristic value is compared with a reference value and / or target value, and preferably a signal characteristic of this comparison is output. For example, in response to this comparison, a control command can be issued to the equipment device or a command to eject the container in question.

[0085] In a further preferred method, at least one image of the surface area equipped with the equipment elements is taken and this image is compared with at least one reference image.

[0086] The position and rotation (position) of the individual equipment elements are preferably determined and compared in the reference and in the image of the equipped surface. The comparison preferably includes both the absolute position relative to the surface and the position of the equipment elements relative to each other.

[0087] In a further preferred method, the attachment of the equipment and / or equipment elements to the container and / or the inspection of the container takes place while the container is moving. Preferably, both the attachment of the equipment and / or equipment elements to the container and the inspection of the container take place while the container is moving.

[0088] Particularly preferably, the container is moved along a straight or curved (in particular circularly curved) transport path during fitting and / or inspection.

[0089] In a further preferred method, the container is rotated with respect to its longitudinal axis during fitting and / or inspection.

[0090] In a further preferred method, the equipment elements are applied to the container in the form of self-adhesive elements.

[0091] Particularly preferably, the equipment elements are applied essentially simultaneously. This means that the equipment elements are applied within 10 seconds, preferably within 5 seconds, preferably within 3 seconds, and preferably within 1 second.

[0092] Particularly preferably, at least some of the equipment elements are applied to the container with a slight time offset. This time offset is preferably greater than 1 ms, preferably greater than 2 ms, preferably greater than 5 ms.

[0093] In another preferred method, the equipment of the container with the equipment element(s) is controlled taking the characteristic value into account. Thus, a control loop can preferably be provided that performs adjustments, particularly on the equipment, taking the characteristic value into account.

[0094] For example, the transport speed of the containers can be changed, the containers can be rotated, or the rotation speed of the containers can be changed.

[0095] In addition, a device that supplies the equipment elements to the containers can also have its working speed changed, for example.

[0096] The present invention further relates to a method for inspecting containers, wherein a container is provided and wherein a fitting is attached to at least one surface area of ​​an outer wall of this container, wherein this fitting comprises at least one carrierless fitting element and / or a plurality of fitting elements that are (at least partially) not connected to one another. Preferably, none of the fitting elements is connected to any other fitting element.

[0097] According to the invention, this surface area equipped with these equipment elements is inspected by means of an inspection device and at least one characteristic value is output which is characteristic of at least one property characteristic of the (in particular at least one) equipment element.

[0098] Preferably, the characteristic value is characteristic of a position of a first equipment element with respect to the surface area and / or a position of a first equipment element with respect to a second equipment element.

[0099] It is therefore also proposed here that, in particular, the orientation and / or positioning of the equipment elements be checked.

[0100] The present invention further relates to a device for inspecting containers and in particular containers that can be filled with liquid and in particular beverage containers, which device has at least one equipment device that is suitable and intended to apply equipment to at least one surface area of ​​an outer wall of a container, said equipment having at least one carrier-free equipment element and / or a plurality of equipment elements that are (at least partially) not connected to one another.

[0101] According to the invention, the device comprises an inspection device which is suitable and intended to inspect the surface area equipped with these equipment elements and to output at least one characteristic value which is characteristic of at least one property characteristic of the equipment element.

[0102] Preferably, the characteristic value is characteristic of a position of a first equipment element with respect to the surface area and / or a position of the first equipment element with respect to a second equipment element.

[0103] The inspection system is preferably capable of inspecting the relevant parts of the container. For this purpose, the inspection system may comprise one or more imaging sensors, such as 2D cameras, 2D / 3D cameras, line scan cameras, or similar.

[0104] The imaging sensor(s) or their optics can preferably block out certain polarization directions, in particular by means of suitable filters.

[0105] Furthermore, it is also possible that the sensor (or the image recording device) itself is able to distinguish the polarization components (Sony - polarization sensor).

[0106] The illumination may be a continuous light, a switchable light or preferably a flashed illumination with a flash duration of less than 1 ms, preferably less than 0.5 ms, particularly preferably less than 100 µs.

[0107] The illumination is preferably monochromatic in different wavelengths, such as red, green and blue, but also from UV, IR, or a combination of these wavelength ranges.

[0108] The illumination can preferably combine different sets of wavelengths depending on the type of product being produced. The illumination can preferably be a continuous (partial) spectrum of visible light, the so-called white light.

[0109] The lighting can also emit different wavelengths in parts, e.g. arranged in stripes or other patterns, e.g. as a two-color pattern, or as a rainbow pattern, or the like.

[0110] The illumination can still be diffuse, directional and / or polarized.

[0111] The illumination device can be incident light, transmitted light, dark field or a combination of these types of illumination.

[0112] The imaging sensors can preferably adjust the focal plane, particularly by means of automatic, regulated, or controlled adjustment of the lens, for different container diameters and thus the different distances from the sensor. This adjustment can preferably be made once when changing container types.

[0113] Detection can occur in the labeling machine or the equipment device. For this purpose, at least one sensor can preferably be installed along the transport path (of the containers), and the corresponding label locations on the labeled container are preferably brought by the equipment device into a position suitable for detection by the sensor (or the image recording device) and the illumination.

[0114] Sensors are preferably installed along the transport path. These can be assigned in sections, after each unit, or at the end, but preferably per unit.

[0115] One or more sensors can also be arranged in a group in order to be able to map a larger circumferential area or the entire circumference of the container in combination with the container rotation along the transport path (in particular continuously, no cyclic machine).

[0116] Preferably, an area sensor can image up to 120°, preferably up to 90°, particularly preferably 20 - 60° in sufficient quality.

[0117] The detection device can be installed downstream of the labeling device or equipment device (particularly on the (conveyor) belt) (360° detection on the belt). For this purpose, at least one sensor and a light source are preferably arranged so that they can detect part of the applied label.

[0118] Preferably, at least three, particularly preferably four or six, sensors or image recording devices are arranged in one plane. Multiple planes are also possible.

[0119] Preferably, the distance between the containers is selected so that the neighboring containers are sufficiently far away from the inspected container to allow the sensor (or image recording device) a clear view of all points of interest.

[0120] An easily understandable negative example: if the containers are positioned close together along the transport route, the location in the transport direction cannot be seen. On the other hand, the neighboring container should not be positioned too far away, because, given a given production output of X containers per unit of time, this would significantly increase the transport speed. This is undesirable.

[0121] The evaluation unit preferably compares the sensor image (or the image captured by the image recording device) with the stored production data.

[0122] The control unit preferably controls the timing of image capture. In the machine, it can use the container clock signal and / or a continuously fine-resolution motion signal (e.g., from a rotary encoder).

[0123] After the machine, the control device can use a light barrier, an initiator or similar to detect the container at any time and / or a position increment signal (encoder, transport speed).

[0124] The control unit preferably compensates for the delay present in the device and calculates the dynamic lead up to the time of recording depending on the current speed, optionally the current speed change.

[0125] A disadvantage of a rigid system is that at different speeds with a fixed lead time, the recording would take place at different positions.

[0126] The control unit preferably compensates for differences when changing types, for example when the container diameter changes.

[0127] Particularly preferably, the containers are made of plastic, glass, or pulp. Particularly preferably, the fitting elements are made of plastic. In a further preferred embodiment, the fitting elements have at least one self-adhesive surface.

[0128] In a further preferred embodiment, the device comprises a control device for controlling the equipment device, which is suitable and intended to control the equipment device taking the characteristic value into account. In particular, the control device is a regulating device which is suitable and intended to regulate the equipment device taking the characteristic value into account.

[0129] If, for example, a characteristic value indicates that a distance between one piece of equipment and another piece of equipment is greater than a specified target value, the equipment device can be controlled in such a way that the distance again corresponds to the target distance or lies within a range of this target distance limited by limit values.

[0130] In a further advantageous embodiment, the device comprises an ejection device that is suitable and intended to eject individual containers based on the characteristic value. For example, if it is determined that the position of one piece of equipment relative to another piece of equipment is greater than a limit value allows, the instruction can be given to eject this container.

[0131] In a further preferred embodiment, this discharge device is arranged (in the transport direction of the containers) after the equipment device and after the inspection device.

[0132] In a further advantageous embodiment, the device comprises a transport device that transports the containers from the equipment device to the inspection device. Particularly preferably, the transport device is suitable and intended for transporting the containers individually. For example, gripping elements can be provided that grip the containers at their mouths, for example, at their support rings.

[0133] In a further advantageous embodiment, the device comprises an assignment device that assigns a fitting process to a container inspected by the inspection device. This means that it can be determined that a specific container X, which is being inspected by the inspection device (in particular at a predetermined time or period), was fitted by the fitting device, and in particular, the relevant fitting process can be identified. This makes it possible to determine which specific fitting process on a container led to which specific defect.

[0134] Particularly preferably, the device comprises a storage device which stores individual equipment processes and / or data characteristic thereof and / or individual inspection processes and / or data characteristic thereof (for example, characteristic values).

[0135] This storage can take place over an extended period of time. This also allows trends to be identified, for example, if the distance between a first and a second piece of equipment slowly increases or decreases. In this case, corrective action can be taken. Countermeasures can also be initiated for other anomalies in the equipment, such as the incorrect rotational position of a specific piece of equipment.

[0136] Preferably, the images captured by the image recording device are evaluated. Artificial intelligence can preferably be used for this evaluation.

[0137] Using artificial intelligence, a similarity function can be calculated between reference images and recordings in order to measure deviations from the reference.

[0138] In addition, artificial intelligence can be used to locate individual features in the image and reference image. The location, or position, is a key value, as explained above.

[0139] Furthermore, the inspection device is suitable and intended to determine whether a fitting element is correctly arranged on the container or whether it, for example, protrudes, has distortions, or the like.

[0140] Particularly preferably, the device comprises a transport device for transporting the containers, in particular also during the inspection process.

[0141] Particularly preferably, the transport device is suitable and intended to transport the equipped container at least in sections along a circular transport path.

[0142] Particularly preferably, the transport device is suitable and intended to transport the containers at a distance from one another that is greater than half the diameter (or equal to half the diameter) of an individual container.

[0143] Preferably, the transport device is suitable and intended to transport the containers at a distance from one another that is less than six times the diameter of a container, preferably less than five times the diameter of a container, preferably less than four times the diameter of a container and particularly preferably less than three times the diameter of a container.

[0144] Preferably, the transport device is suitable and designed to transport the containers individually and independently of one another. This can be achieved, for example, using individually controlled, purely electronically controlled, and wear-free shuttle systems. Individual control and direct regulation after parameter acquisition and even during the application process are advantageous.

[0145] In a further advantageous embodiment, the transport device has at least one transport wheel and / or at least one transport star.

[0146] The present invention is further directed to an inspection device for inspecting a container, wherein an equipment is attached to at least one surface area of ​​an outer wall of this container, wherein this equipment has at least one carrier-free equipment element and / or a plurality of equipment elements which are (at least partially) not connected to one another.

[0147] According to the invention, this inspection device is suitable and intended to output at least one characteristic value which is characteristic of at least one property characteristic of the equipment element

[0148] Preferably, the characteristic value is characteristic of a position of a first equipment element with respect to the surface area and / or a position of a first equipment element with respect to a second equipment element.

[0149] Preferably, the inspection device comprises an image recording device which inspects the container and / or which records a spatially resolved image of the surface area provided with the equipment elements.

[0150] The inspection device preferably has a lighting device that illuminates the surface or the equipment. Particularly preferably, the inspection device has a transport device that transports the inspected containers along a predetermined transport path.

[0151] Further advantages and embodiments can be seen from the attached drawings:

[0152] Showing: Fig. 1 a representation of equipment according to the state of the art; Fig. 2 a representation of an inventive equipment of a container; and Fig. 3 shows a diagram of a process to illustrate the invention; Fig. 4 a representation for capturing an individual label or a piece of equipment; and Fig. 5 a representation for recording different errors.

[0153] Fig. Figure 1 shows a design, such as a label according to the prior art. This design comprises several design elements 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d. These are pictorial elements arranged on or integrated into a carrier 120.

[0154] Thus, all equipment elements 100a-d are firmly connected to one another via the carrier 120. Therefore, during an inspection or application of this label 100, there will be no shift in the position of individual equipment features relative to one another.

[0155] Fig. Figure 2 shows a configuration according to the invention. Here, too, several configuration elements 10a, 10b, 10c, and 10d are provided. It can be seen that these configuration elements can be, for example, image elements 10a or 10b, letter combinations (10c), or marking elements such as barcodes (10d).

[0156] Unlike the Fig. 1, there is no carrier in the equipment according to the invention and the equipment elements are therefore not connected to one another.

[0157] When applied to the container, they are applied separately from one another, for example, by gluing. For this reason, during production, it may happen that the individual fitting elements, such as fitting elements 10a or 10b, are spaced at a distance that deviates from the specified distance.

[0158] Fig. Figure 3 shows a diagram illustrating the invention. Several containers 1, each comprising the equipment elements 10a, 10b, 10c, and 10c, are transported along a transport path P. An image recording device 4 is schematically shown, which records the individual equipment elements on the containers 1 and is part of an inspection device (not shown).

[0159] At the Fig. In the situation shown in Figure 3, the equipment elements 10b and 10a should be spaced apart by a distance A relative to their respective initial points. This is also the target distance. The partial figure below shows the target distance (horizontal line) compared to the actual distance. It can be seen that the first two containers from the left each have equipment elements that have this target distance from each other. The third container and the fourth container from the left each have equipment elements 10a and 10b where the distance is greater, namely A + X.

[0160] The curve below shows that the distance between the equipment elements 10a and 10b is increasing. The control system preferentially acts on the equipment device (not shown), thus causing the distance between the equipment elements 10a and 10b to decrease again and return to the setpoint A.

[0161] It would also be possible to react to differing distances between the equipment elements 10a and 10b in a different way. For example, if the distance between two equipment elements becomes too large or too small and can no longer be adjusted, an instruction can be issued to an ejection device (not shown), which ejects the containers equipped in this way.

[0162] Fig. Figure 4 shows a diagram for evaluating labels. A label, a piece of equipment, or a piece of equipment is shown. The solid line indicates a target contour. The preferred method is to check whether the actually detected label or the actually detected equipment lies within a tolerance zone. This tolerance zone can be defined.

[0163] It is also possible to check whether individual sections of the recorded label or equipment lie within specified tolerance ranges.

[0164] Fig. Figure 5 shows examples of potentially occurring defects. The top row shows the target condition of a piece of equipment, which is rectangular in shape. In the first example, part of a label is missing, and in the second example, a corner (top right here) is bent or missing.

[0165] In the middle row, the standard shape of a label or feature is shown on the left. The middle image shows defects in the form of cracks, and the right image is missing part of the feature or label.

[0166] The bottom line, on the left, shows the standard shape. The first defect may be cracks and / or missing parts. The second defect, on the right, has a folded edge.

[0167] The applicant reserves the right to claim all features disclosed in the application documents as essential to the invention, provided they are novel, individually or in combination, over the prior art. It is further noted that the individual figures also describe features that may be advantageous in and of themselves. The skilled person will immediately recognize that a specific feature described in a figure may be advantageous even without adopting further features from that figure. Furthermore, the skilled person will recognize that advantages may also arise from a combination of several features shown in individual or different figures. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] EP 2 290 355 A2

[0004] EP 3 612 452

[0004] EP 0 820 933 B1

[0004]

Claims

[1] Method for inspecting containers (1), wherein an equipment is applied to at least one surface area of ​​an outer wall of a container, wherein this equipment (10) has at least one carrier-free equipment element and preferably a plurality of equipment elements (10a, 10b, 10c) which are at least partially not connected to one another, characterized by that this surface area equipped with this at least one equipment element or with these equipment elements (10a, 10b, 10c) is inspected by means of an inspection device (4) and at least one characteristic value (A) is output which is characteristic of at least one property characteristic of the first equipment element. [2] Method according to the preceding claim, characterized by that the property is an individually characteristic property of the first item of equipment. [3] Method according to at least one of the preceding claims characterized by that at least one equipment element has a predetermined minimum distance from at least one further equipment element and preferably from each further equipment element and that this minimum distance is greater than 0.5 mm, preferably greater than 1 mm. [4] Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the inspection is carried out by means of an image recording device which records a spatially resolved image of the surface area provided with the equipment elements. [5] Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the characteristic value is selected from a group of characteristic values ​​which comprises a characteristic value which is for a position of the equipment element relative to the surface area in a longitudinal direction of the container, for a position of the equipment element relative to the surface area in a circumferential direction of the container, for a position of the equipment element relative to another equipment element in a longitudinal direction of the container, for a position of the equipment element relative to another equipment element in a circumferential direction of the container, for a rotational position of the equipment element relative to the surface area, for a rotational position of the equipment element relative to the another equipment element, for a distortion of the equipment element, for a deformation of the equipment element, for a presence of the equipment element, for an information content of the equipment element,is characteristic for the conformity of an actual condition of the equipment element with a target condition of the equipment element, preferably the condition of the contour of the equipment element, and combinations thereof. [6] Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized by that an image of the surface area equipped with the equipment elements is taken and this image is compared with at least one reference image. [7] Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the characteristic value is compared with a target value and preferably at least one value characteristic of this comparison is output. [8] Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the attachment of the equipment to the container and / or the inspection of the container takes place while the container is in motion. [9] Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the equipment of the container with the equipment element(s) is controlled taking the characteristic value into account. [10] Method for inspecting containers (10), wherein a container (10) is provided, wherein an equipment is attached to at least one surface area of ​​an outer wall of this container (10), wherein this equipment (10) has at least one carrierless equipment element and / or a plurality of equipment elements (10a, 10b, 10c) which are at least partially not connected to one another, characterized by that this surface area equipped with these equipment elements is inspected by means of an inspection device (4) and at least one characteristic value is output which is characteristic of at least one property characteristic of the equipment element. [11] Device for inspecting containers (10) with an equipment device which is suitable and intended to apply equipment to at least one surface area of ​​an outer wall of a container, said equipment (10) comprising at least one carrier-free equipment element and / or a plurality of equipment elements (10a, 10b, 10c) which are not connected to one another, characterized by that the device has an inspection device which is suitable and intended to inspect the surface area equipped with these equipment elements and to output at least one characteristic value which is characteristic of at least one property characteristic of the equipment element. [12] Device according to claim 11, comprising a control device for controlling the equipment device, which is suitable and intended to control the equipment device taking into account the characteristic value. [13] Device according to at least one of the preceding claims 11-12 with a discharge device which is suitable and intended to discharge individual containers taking into account the characteristic value. [14] Device according to at least one of the preceding claims 11-13 characterized by that the device has a transport device which transports the containers from the equipment device to the inspection device. [15] Inspection device for inspecting a container (10), wherein an equipment is attached to at least one surface area of ​​an outer wall of this container, wherein this equipment (10) has at least one carrier-free equipment element and / or a plurality of equipment elements (10a, 10b, 10c) which are not connected to one another, characterized by that this inspection device is suitable and intended to output at least one characteristic value which is characteristic of at least one property characteristic of the first equipment element.

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