Sensor container and associated monitoring method, manufacturing process and computer program product

Abstract

The invention relates, inter alia, to a sensor container (10) for monitoring a container treatment system (12). The sensor container (10) has a substantially tubular main body (32) and several sensor assemblies (36). Each sensor assembly (36) has a contact element (38) with a contact surface (40) for physically contacting objects in the vicinity of the sensor container (10) and a sensor (46). The sensor (46) is operatively connected to the contact element (38) of the respective sensor assembly (36) for receiving a force acting externally on the contact surface (40) of the contact element (38) of the respective sensor assembly (36). The contact elements (38) of the several sensor assemblies (36) are arranged substantially at the same height with respect to the main body (32) and distributed around an outer circumference of the main body (32).

Description

Technical area

[0001] The invention relates to a sensor container for monitoring a container treatment plant. The invention further relates to a method for producing a sensor container. The invention also relates to a method for monitoring a container treatment plant. The invention also relates to a computer program product. Technical background

[0002] In bottling plants for beverages, etc., bottles equipped with sensors can be used to check, for example, the stresses acting on the bottles as they pass through the bottling plant.

[0003] US 11,209,409 B2 discloses a bottle with sensors for testing and optimizing the performance of a filling line. According to one embodiment, a bottle comprises an outer layer and a tube within the outer layer. The bottle has a battery in the outer layer and one or more sensors powered by the battery.

[0004] WO 2015 / 157851 A1 relates to an integrated sensor system for monitoring, acquiring, processing, and analyzing data for sensitive and fragile items in real time or near real time within production, packaging, and distribution systems. The system comprises a sensor platform containing multiple built-in sensors that detect numerous force, environmental, and motion variables; a wearable data receiver application that communicates with the sensor module to issue commands and process acquired data; and a web server application configured to receive information from one or more wearable data receiver applications and perform operations.

[0005] WO 2013 / 113122 A1 relates to a pressure, force, and orientation sensing system that can be used for remote analysis of various industrial items or sports equipment. Force-sensing packages can be equipped with sensor arrays to improve production lines and ship containers. The force-sensing package has a shape similar to a standard-sized package, to which the usual forces are applied and which is sensed by the force-sensing package. The shapes include cylinders (cans), cylinders with conical sections (bottles), and parallelepipeds (boxes).

[0006] Conventional systems can have various disadvantages. For example, there is no specific sensor technology for PET lines. Further disadvantages can include low transmission rates, instability of data transmission, and inadequate positioning within the line. The most significant disadvantage is the lack of flexibility of conventional systems. For each container format, a container drone must be manufactured with exactly the same dimensions in order to collect meaningful data. This is not only associated with high costs, but also requires a significant amount of time for preparation, production, and shipping. Therefore, conventional systems are not suitable for urgent applications (e.g., for resolving complaints). Furthermore, conventional systems only partially measure the parameters required for line analysis.

[0007] The invention is based on the object of creating an improved technology for monitoring a container processing plant. Preferably, improved flexibility should be enabled at reduced costs and effort and / or at least some of the aforementioned disadvantages should be overcome. Summary of the invention

[0008] The problem is solved by the features of the independent claims. Advantageous further developments are specified in the dependent claims and the description.

[0009] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a sensor container (e.g., sensor bottle or sensor can) for monitoring a container treatment system. The sensor container has a (e.g., single- or multi-part) substantially tubular main body. The sensor container has a plurality of sensor assemblies, each having a contact element with a (e.g., curved or bent, preferably cylinder-shell-segment-shaped, or planar) contact surface for physically contacting objects in an environment of the sensor container. The plurality of sensor assemblies further each have a (e.g., force) sensor, preferably a strain gauge, wherein the sensor is operatively connected (e.g., by means of a screw connection) to the contact element of the respective sensor assembly for receiving a force acting externally on the contact surface of the contact element of the respective sensor assembly.The contact elements of the plurality of sensor assemblies can be arranged substantially at the same height with respect to the main body and distributed around an outer circumference of the main body, preferably spaced apart from one another, particularly preferably equidistant.

[0010] The sensor container advantageously enables a simple structure with a sufficient number of sensors that can detect external forces acting on the sensor container. This makes it possible, for example, to draw conclusions about which loads occur with which fittings or machine combinations and to create optimized designs, e.g., even for special requirements such as PET lightweighting. The simple structure can also enable fast and flexible production of the sensor container adapted to any specific container format. It can be particularly advantageous here if the structure of the sensor container is optimized and adapted for production using additive manufacturing. In this way, at least some components of the sensor container, such as the contact elements and the main body, as well as any sensors, can be manufactured very flexibly and quickly, and individually for the respective application, e.g.Operational and functional tests of existing systems, complaints or for research and development purposes.

[0011] Preferably, the contact elements can be of identical construction and / or the sensors can be of identical construction.

[0012] In one embodiment, the contact elements are each supported and / or attached to the main body via the sensor of the respective sensor assembly. This advantageously enables a good transmission of the forces acting on the contact elements to the sensors.

[0013] In a further embodiment, the sensors are arranged inside the main body. Alternatively or additionally, the contact elements can be arranged in sections outside the main body and / or extend in sections through openings in the main body. The sensors can thus advantageously be arranged in a protected manner inside the main body.

[0014] In one embodiment, the contact elements each have a substantially mushroom-shaped cross-section.

[0015] In a further embodiment, the contact elements each have a wall section, preferably essentially shaped like a hollow cylinder segment (e.g., a hollow circular cylinder segment) or a block-shaped wall section with the contact surface, and a pin section, wherein the pin section connects the wall section to the sensor of the respective sensor assembly. This advantageously enables a reliable and simple design that is particularly suitable for production using additive manufacturing.

[0016] In one embodiment, the total number of sensors in the multiple sensor assemblies is odd, preferably three or five. This advantageously allows for more precise localization of the forces acting on the contact elements compared to designs with an even number of sensors, since, for example, the force and counterforce on opposing contact surfaces of the sensor container during mass transport do not act at the same points on the respective contact surfaces.

[0017] In a further embodiment, the sensor container further comprises an additional (e.g., force) sensor, e.g., a strain gauge, which is arranged in a bottom region of the sensor container, preferably in a bottom of the sensor container that can be detached from the main body. Preferably, the additional sensor can be operatively connected to the main body to receive a vertical force acting on the main body. The sensor container can thus also advantageously be used to detect forces acting on the sensor container from above, e.g., when clamped by means of a treatment head.

[0018] It is possible that the additional sensor is formed from several superimposed, preferably additively manufactured (e.g. 3D printed, e.g. additively manufactured using the powder bed process) material layers.

[0019] In one embodiment, the sensor container further comprises a status light, preferably a status LED, wherein the status light is arranged on the sensor container so that it is visible from the outside, preferably on a top side of the sensor container. This advantageously allows the operability or operating status of the sensor container to be easily determined during use.

[0020] In a further embodiment, the main body is formed from several superimposed, preferably additively manufactured (e.g. 3D printed, e.g. additively manufactured using a powder bed process) material layers. Alternatively or additionally, the contact elements are each formed from several superimposed, preferably additively manufactured (e.g. 3D printed, e.g. additively manufactured using a powder bed process) material layers. Alternatively or additionally, the sensors are each formed from several superimposed, preferably additively manufactured (e.g. 3D printed, e.g. additively manufactured using a powder bed process) material layers. Advantageously, the sensor container can be manufactured very quickly and flexibly using additive manufacturing with dimensions specific to the customer container format. In this case, the additive manufacturing of the sensors can take the form of printed electronics or conductor tracks, e.g.to form strain gauges, can be used particularly advantageously.

[0021] In one embodiment, the sensor container further comprises a plurality of further sensor assemblies, each comprising a contact element with a contact surface for physically contacting objects in the environment of the sensor container, and a sensor operatively connected to the contact element of the respective further sensor assembly for receiving a force acting externally on the contact surface of the contact element of the respective further sensor assembly. The contact elements of the plurality of further sensor assemblies are arranged substantially at the same height relative to the main body, below the contact elements of the plurality of sensor assemblies, and distributed around the outer circumference of the main body, preferably spaced apart from one another, particularly preferably equidistant. Advantageously, this allows the forces acting on the sensor container to be determined at a further height position, e.g., in the middle or at the bottom of the sensor container.

[0022] Optionally, the sensor container can, for example, further comprise a plurality of further sensor assemblies, each comprising a contact element with a contact surface for physically contacting objects in the environment of the sensor container and a sensor operatively connected to the contact element of the respective further sensor assembly for receiving a force acting externally on the contact surface of the contact element of the respective further sensor assembly. The contact elements of the plurality of further sensor assemblies are arranged at substantially the same height relative to the main body, below the plurality of further sensor assemblies and distributed around the outer circumference of the main body, preferably spaced apart from one another, particularly preferably equidistant. Advantageously, this allows the forces acting on the sensor container to be determined at a further height position, e.g., at the bottom of the sensor container.

[0023] In a further embodiment, the sensor container further comprises at least one of a data storage device, preferably a removable memory card, for storing sensor signals; an electrical, preferably removable, energy storage device; a control device; a communication interface for wireless and / or wired data transmission; a temperature sensor; at least one acceleration sensor; a gyroscope; a position-determining device; an internal pressure sensor; and an individual (e.g., digital and / or physical) identifier (e.g., stored on the data storage device or assigned to the control device or to the communication interface) for individual identification of the sensor container. Advantageously, this allows the functional scope of the sensor container to be expanded as desired. For example, the communication interface can enable real-time transmission of the recorded measured values.The removable electrical energy storage device can enable long operating times without the need for a large and heavy electrical energy storage unit. Instead, the electrical energy storage unit can be easily replaced. The removable memory card, in turn, can provide a particularly simple way to read the measured values. The positioning device can enable the measured values ​​to be evaluated with spatial resolution. The individual identifier can enable individual identification of the sensor container and individual communication with this sensor container, e.g., when passing through the container treatment system, even when multiple sensor containers are in use.

[0024] It is also possible for the sensor container not to comprise the multiple sensor assemblies disclosed herein. Instead, the sensor container comprises at least one of a data storage device, preferably a removable memory card, for storing sensor signals; an electrical, preferably removable, energy storage device; a control device; a communication interface for wireless and / or wired transmission of data; a temperature sensor; at least one acceleration sensor; a gyroscope; a position-determining device; an internal pressure sensor; and an individual (e.g., digital and / or physical) identifier (e.g., stored on the data storage device or assigned to the control device or to the communication interface) for individual identification of the sensor container.

[0025] Preferably, the data storage device, the electrical energy storage device, the control device, the communication interface, the temperature sensor, the at least one acceleration sensor, the gyroscope, the position determining device, the internal pressure sensor and / or the individual identifier can be carried on a base of the sensor container that can be detached from the main body.

[0026] It is possible for the removable memory card and / or the removable electrical energy storage device to be accessible and removable from the underside of the sensor container. Advantageously, the removable memory card and / or the removable electrical energy storage device can be positioned in a bottom area of ​​the sensor container.

[0027] Preferably, the term "control device" can refer to electronics (e.g., embodied as a driver circuit or with microprocessor(s) and data memory) that, depending on its design, can perform control and / or regulation tasks and / or processing tasks. Even if the term "control" is used herein, it can also appropriately include or mean "regulation" or "control with feedback" and / or "processing."

[0028] It is possible that the temperature sensor, the at least one acceleration sensor, the gyroscope, the position determining device and / or the internal pressure sensor are formed from several superimposed, preferably additively manufactured (e.g. 3D printed, e.g. additively manufactured using a powder bed process) material layers.

[0029] A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a container treatment system for manufacturing, cleaning, coating, testing, filling, sealing, labeling, printing, and / or packaging containers for liquid media, preferably beverages or liquid foodstuffs. The container treatment system comprises at least one sensor container as disclosed herein.

[0030] For example, the sensor container can be designed as a bottle, can, canister, carton, flacon or tube, etc.

[0031] Accordingly, the containers can preferably also be designed as bottles, cans, canisters, cartons, flacons or tubes, etc.

[0032] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing a sensor container as disclosed herein. The method comprises at least one of additive manufacturing, preferably 3D printing (e.g. using the powder bed process), of the contact elements of the plurality of sensor assemblies, whereby: - a dimensioning of the contact elements of the plurality of sensor assemblies is specified depending on a dimensioning of containers treated in the container treatment plant in such a way that an outer circumference of the sensor container specified by the contact elements corresponds to an outer circumference of the containers; and / or - a shape of the contact surfaces of the contact elements of the plurality of sensor assemblies is specified depending on a shape of containers treated in the container treatment plant such that the shape of the contact surfaces is adapted to the shape of the containers, additive manufacturing, preferably 3D printing (e.g. using the powder bed process), of the sensors of the plurality of sensor assemblies; and additive manufacturing, preferably 3D printing (e.g. using the powder bed process), of the main body.

[0033] Advantageously, the method for producing the sensor container can offer the same advantages that have already been explained with reference to the sensor container.

[0034] Preferably, the contact elements, the sensors and / or the main body can be manufactured additively in a common additive manufacturing process.

[0035] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for monitoring a container treatment plant for treating containers. The method comprises: Providing at least one sensor container as disclosed herein; and Passing through at least one section of the container treatment system by means of the at least one sensor container, wherein preferably the sensors detect the forces acting on the contact elements.

[0036] Advantageously, the method for monitoring the container treatment plant can offer the same advantages that have already been explained with reference to the sensor container.

[0037] Preferably, the method may further comprise evaluating or checking the detected forces.

[0038] In one embodiment, the at least one sensor container has substantially the same external dimensions and / or substantially the same external contour as the containers (e.g., bottle shape, such as PET bottle shape or glass bottle shape, or can shape).

[0039] In a further embodiment, the at least one sensor container passes through the section of the container treatment plant together with the containers, and / or the section of the container treatment plant is a container mass transport section.

[0040] It is also possible that the section is, for example, a preform feeding device, a preform heating device, a container manufacturing device, a rinsing device, a filling device, a closing device, a labeling device, a packaging device, a palletizing device, an inspection unit, a pasteurizing device or a cleaning device.

[0041] In a further embodiment, the at least one sensor container communicates by means of a communication interface with the container treatment plant and / or at least one device of the container treatment plant during the passage, preferably: - for receiving operating parameters of the container treatment plant and / or the at least one device; and / or - for sending operating parameters for adjusting the container treatment plant and / or the at least one device.

[0042] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a computer program product comprising (e.g., at least one computer-readable storage medium having stored thereon) instructions that cause an additive manufacturing device (e.g., 3D printer) to perform a method of manufacturing as disclosed herein; or to manufacture the main body, the contact elements, and / or the sensors of a sensor container as disclosed herein in a plurality of layers in an additive manufacturing process, preferably in a common additive manufacturing process.

[0043] The previously described preferred embodiments and features of the invention can be combined with one another as desired. Short description of the characters

[0044] Further details and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. They show: Fig. 1 is a schematic sectional view of a sensor container according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 2 a schematic representation of a container treatment plant; Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a partially assembled sensor container according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 4 is a vertical sectional view through an upper portion of the partially assembled sensor container of Fig. 3; Fig. 5 a top view of the partially assembled sensor container of Fig. 3; Fig. 6 is a perspective view of a sensor container according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 7 a vertical sectional view through the sensor container of Fig. 6; and Fig. 8 a horizontal sectional view through the sensor container of Fig. 6.

[0045] The embodiments shown in the figures correspond at least partially, so that similar or identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals and for their explanation reference is also made to the description of the other embodiments or figures in order to avoid repetition. Detailed description of exemplary embodiments

[0046] The Fig. 1 shows a sensor container 10. The sensor container 10 can be used to monitor a container treatment plant 12 (see Fig. 2). The sensor container 10 can be used, for example, during assembly, a commissioning test, and / or during monitoring of the container treatment system 12. The sensor container 10 can also be referred to as a measuring drone or container measuring drone.

[0047] For monitoring, the sensor container 10 passes through at least one section of the container treatment system 12 like a container normally treated by the container treatment system 12. For example, the sensor container 10 may pass through at least one container mass transport section, for example, a container mass conveyor.

[0048] As it passes through at least one section of the container treatment system 12, the sensor container 10 detects forces acting on the sensor container 10. It is possible for the sensor container 10 to detect additional variables, for example, temperature(s), internal container pressure(s), acceleration(s), orientation(s), and / or position(s). Preferably, the sensor container 10 passes through at least one section of the container treatment system together with the containers normally treated by the container treatment system 12.

[0049] The variables detected by the sensor container 10 can be used, for example, to review complaints and objections regarding the container treatment system 12, for simulation validation, and / or to test specific concepts, e.g., lightweight containers. It is possible for the variables detected by the sensor container 10 to be visualized using an associated application.

[0050] The sensor container 10 may have substantially the same external dimensions and / or substantially the same external contour as the containers normally treated by the container treatment system 12.

[0051] The Fig. 2 shows an exemplary container treatment system 12 through which the sensor container 10 could pass, at least in sections.

[0052] Particularly preferably, the container treatment plant 12 is a PET container treatment plant. It is also possible for the container treatment plant 12 to be, for example, a glass container treatment plant or a can container treatment plant.

[0053] The container treatment system 12 can, for example, have a preform feeding device 14, a preform heating device 16, a container manufacturing device 18 (e.g., container blow molding machine), a rinsing device 20 (e.g., with rinsing nozzles), a filling device 22 (e.g., filler carousel; e.g., with filling valves), a closing device 24 (e.g., closer carousel; e.g., with closing heads), a labeling device 26 (e.g., with labeling units), a packaging device 28 (e.g., with packing heads or film wrappers) and / or a palletizing device 30 (e.g., with palletizing heads, sliding plates, or the like).

[0054] It is possible for the container treatment system 12 to comprise alternative or additional container treatment devices, such as a depalletizing device, a coating device, a sterilizing device (e.g. with sterilizing nozzles), a printing device (e.g. with print heads), a pasteurizing device and / or an adhesive pack manufacturing device (e.g. with adhesive application nozzles).

[0055] At least one container conveyor can transport the containers through the container processing system 12, e.g., at least partially in individual transport and / or at least partially in bulk transport. The at least one container conveyor can connect the container processing devices 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, and / or 30 to one another. The at least one container conveyor can, for example, have at least one transport star and / or at least one linear conveyor.

[0056] With further reference to the Fig. 1 schematically shows that the sensor container 10 has a main body 32 and several sensor assemblies 36.

[0057] The main body 32 is essentially tubular. The tubular shape can have any cross-section, e.g., circular or polygonal, e.g., with rounded corners. The main body 32 can, for example, have an essentially cylindrical shape or an essentially block shape. The main body 32 can be made of one or more parts.

[0058] The main body 32 can have a substantially constant outer circumference along its central vertical axis. Alternatively, the main body 32 can taper along its central vertical axis, for example, in sections, for example, in an upper section of the main body 32 corresponding to a neck region of a bottle.

[0059] The main body 32 may include or surround a receiving chamber 33. Various components of the sensor container 10 may be arranged in the receiving chamber 33, as described in detail below by way of example.

[0060] The main body 32 can be positioned upright. For example, a base 34 can be detachably attached to the main body 32. The base 34 can be connected to the main body 32, for example, via a detachable screw or snap-in connection. The sensor container 10 can stand upright by means of the base 34.

[0061] Preferably, the main body 32 can be formed from several superimposed, preferably additively manufactured, material layers. It is also possible for the base 34 to be formed from several superimposed, preferably additively manufactured, material layers.

[0062] Preferably, for additive manufacturing, a dimensioning and / or a shape of the main body 32 can be specified depending on a dimensioning and / or a shape of containers treated in the container treatment plant 12.

[0063] The sensor container 10 can preferably be liquid-tight or protected against the ingress of liquid. For example, the main body 32 and / or the base 34 can be designed such that, when the sensor container 10 is assembled, no liquid can penetrate into the interior of the sensor container 10 or into the receiving chamber 33. For example, a connection between the main body 32 and the base 34 can be sealed, for example by means of a sealing element. For example, openings in the main body 32 can be sealed, for example by means of a respective sealing element.

[0064] The sensor assemblies 36 each have a contact element 38 and a sensor 46. The contact elements 38 are preferably identical in construction. The sensors 46 are preferably identical in construction.

[0065] The contact elements 38 each have a contact surface 40. The contact surface 40 serves to physically contact objects, for example, other containers or guides, in an environment of the sensor container 10 during passage through the container treatment system 12.

[0066] For example, the contact surface 40 can be curved or bent, for example, in the shape of a cylinder jacket segment. The contact surfaces 40 can, for example, each extend at an angle between approximately 160° and approximately 180°, between approximately 100° and approximately 120°, or between approximately 70° and approximately 90°, e.g., measured with respect to a central vertical axis of the sensor container 10 in a plane perpendicular to the central vertical axis. Alternatively, the contact surface 40 can, for example, be planar or flat.

[0067] The contact elements 38 can each have a wall section 42 and a pin section 44.

[0068] The wall section 42 is preferably shaped like a hollow cylinder segment, or is block-shaped or plate-shaped. The wall section 42 can have the contact surface 40. The contact surface 40 can be arranged on an outer side of the wall section 42 facing away from the main body 32. On an inner side of the wall section 42 facing the main body 32, the wall section 42 can transition into the pin section 44.

[0069] The pin portion 44 can connect the wall portion 42 to the sensor 46. The pin portion 44 can be rod-shaped, for example. Alternatively, the pin portion 44 can taper at least in sections, for example, starting from the wall portion 42 toward the sensor 46.

[0070] Preferably, the wall portion 42 and the pin portion 44 of a contact element 38 are formed integrally with one another. Alternatively, the wall portion 42 and the pin portion 44 can be attached to one another, for example, by means of a screw connection.

[0071] The contact elements 38 can be arranged in sections outside of the main body 32. Preferably, the contact surfaces 40 and preferably the wall sections 42 can be arranged outside of the main body 32. However, it is also possible, for example, that the wall sections 42 extend at least in sections through openings in the main body 32 (not in Fig. 1).

[0072] The contact elements 38 can extend in sections through openings in the main body 32 into the receiving chamber 33 of the main body 32. Preferably, the pin sections 44 of the contact elements 38 can extend through openings in the main body 32.

[0073] It is possible for the contact elements 38, e.g., their wall sections 42 or their pin sections 44, to be guided in openings in the main body 32, preferably in the radial direction(s) relative to a central vertical axis of the main body 32.

[0074] The contact elements 38 preferably have a substantially mushroom-shaped cross-section. A cap section of the mushroom-shaped cross-section can preferably be formed by the wall section 42. A stem section of the mushroom-shaped cross-section can be formed by the pin section 44.

[0075] The contact elements 38 of the sensor assemblies 36 are arranged substantially at the same height relative to the main body 32 or relative to a central vertical axis of the main body 32. The contact elements 38 are distributed around an outer circumference of the main body 32. Particularly preferably, the contact elements 38 are arranged spaced apart from one another around the outer circumference of the main body 32, particularly preferably equidistant from one another.

[0076] For example, the contact elements 38 may extend together in a ring around the outer circumference of the main body 32. The contact elements 38 may be arranged in a common strip / band around the outer circumference of the main body 32.

[0077] The total number of contact elements 38 of the sensor assemblies 36 can be, for example, between 2 and 10. Preferably, the total number is odd, preferably three or five.

[0078] Particularly preferably, the contact elements 38 are manufactured or produced additively. The contact elements 38 can thus each be formed from several superimposed, preferably additively manufactured, material layers.

[0079] Specifically, for additive manufacturing, the dimensioning of the contact elements 38 can be specified depending on the dimensioning of the containers treated in the container treatment system 12 such that an outer circumference of the sensor container 10 specified by the contact elements 38 corresponds to an outer circumference of the containers. Alternatively or additionally, a shape (e.g., a curvature or a radius) of the contact surfaces 40 of the contact elements 38 can be specified depending on the shape of the containers treated in the container treatment system 12 such that the shape of the contact surfaces is adapted to the shape of the containers.

[0080] The sensors 46 are each operatively connected to the contact element 38 of the respective sensor assembly 36. Via the operative connection, the sensors 46 each receive a force acting externally on the contact surface 40 of the contact element 38 of the respective sensor assembly 36. The operative connection can preferably be provided by the pin portion 44 and the wall portion 42 of the respective contact element 38.

[0081] Preferably, the sensors 46 are each directly connected to the contact element 38 of the respective sensor assembly 36. For example, the respective contact element 38, preferably its pin portion 44, can be directly in contact with the sensor 46.

[0082] Preferably, the sensor 46 and the contact element 38 of the respective sensor assembly 36 can be screwed together. The screw connection can preferably be detachable from outside the sensor container 10, for example from the contact surface 40. Particularly preferably, the screw connection can extend through a through-opening in the contact element 38. For example, the through-opening can extend from the contact surface 40 through the wall section 42 and the pin section 44 to an end face of the pin section 44. A longitudinal axis of the through-opening or of the screw connection can lie in a plane perpendicular to the central vertical axis of the main body 32. The longitudinal axis can preferably intersect the central vertical axis of the main body 32.

[0083] The sensors 46 can each measure a force acting on them directly or indirectly. Particularly preferably, the sensors 46 are designed as strain gauges. The strain gauges can, for example, be arranged vertically. However, it is also possible, for example, for the sensors 46 to be designed otherwise as force sensors, load cells, or the like. Preferably, the sensors 46 can output signals to the control device 92 indicating the measured forces.

[0084] The sensors 46 of the sensor assemblies 36 can be arranged substantially at the same height with respect to the main body 32 or with respect to a central vertical axis of the main body 32.

[0085] The sensors 46 of the sensor assemblies 36 can preferably be arranged distributed around an inner circumference of the main body 32. The sensors 46 are preferably arranged spaced apart from one another around the inner circumference of the main body 32, particularly preferably equidistant from one another.

[0086] A total number of sensors 46 of the sensor assemblies 36 can be, for example, between 2 and 10, preferably corresponding to a total number of contact elements 38. Preferably, the total number is odd, preferably three or five.

[0087] The sensors 46 can be arranged within the main body 32, i.e., in the receiving chamber 33. Specifically, the sensors 46 can, for example, be releasably attached to the main body 32 from the inside, e.g., by means of screw connections. Preferably, the contact elements 38 can each be supported or at least attached to the main body 32 via the sensor 46 of the respective sensor assembly 36. As already mentioned, the contact element 38 and the sensor 46 of the respective sensor assembly 36 can, for example, be screwed together.

[0088] Preferably, the sensors 46 can be formed from several superimposed, preferably additively manufactured, material layers. However, it is also possible for the sensors 46 not to be additively manufactured, but rather to be manufactured using a conventional manufacturing technique.

[0089] The sensor container 10 preferably has additional sensor assemblies 48 arranged below the sensor assemblies 36. The additional sensor assemblies 48 can each have a contact element 50, e.g., with a contact surface 52, a wall section 54, and / or a pin section 56. The additional sensor assemblies 48 can further each have a sensor 58.

[0090] The contact elements 50 of the further sensor assemblies 48 can be arranged substantially at the same height with respect to the main body 32 and below the contact elements 38 of the sensor assemblies 36.

[0091] It is understood that the further sensor assemblies 48, the contact elements 50, the contact surfaces 52, the wall sections 54, the pin sections 56 and / or the sensors 58 may have any feature described herein with respect to the sensor assemblies 36, the contact elements 38, the contact surfaces 40, the wall sections 42, the pin sections 44 and the sensors 46, respectively, individually or in any combination.

[0092] Preferably, the sensor container 10 has further sensor assemblies 60 arranged below the sensor assemblies 36, 48. The further sensor assemblies 60 can each have a contact element 62, e.g., with a contact surface 64, a wall section 66, and / or a pin section 68. The further sensor assemblies 60 can each further have a sensor 70.

[0093] The contact elements 62 of the further other sensor assemblies 60 can be arranged substantially at the same height with respect to the main body 32 and below the contact elements 38 of the sensor assemblies 36 and the contact elements 50 of the further sensor assemblies 48.

[0094] It is understood that the other sensor assemblies 60, the contact elements 62, the contact surfaces 64, the wall sections 66, the pin sections 68 and / or the sensors 70 may have any feature described herein with respect to the sensor assemblies 36, the contact elements 38, the contact surfaces 40, the wall sections 42, the pin sections 44 and the sensors 46, respectively, individually or in any combination.

[0095] Preferably, the contact elements 38, 50, and / or 62 can be structurally identical. Preferably, the sensors 46, 58, and / or 70 can be structurally identical. Particularly preferably, the sensor assemblies 36, 48, and / or 60 can be structurally identical.

[0096] It is possible for the sensor container 10 to have further groups of sensor assemblies such as the sensor assemblies 36, which are arranged at a different height position than the sensor assemblies 36, 48, 60. However, the sensor container 10 preferably has only two, three or four layers / bands / strips of sensor assemblies arranged one above the other.

[0097] Optionally, the sensor container 10 can, for example, have an additional sensor 72, a status light 74, a data memory 76, an electrical energy storage device 78, a communication interface 80, a temperature sensor 82, at least one acceleration sensor 84, a gyroscope 86, a position determination device 88, an internal pressure sensor 90 and / or a control device 92.

[0098] The additional (force) sensor 72, the status light 74, the data memory 76, the electrical energy storage 78, the communication interface 80, the temperature sensor 82, the at least one acceleration sensor 84, the gyroscope 86, the position determining device 88, the internal pressure sensor 90 and / or the control device 92 are preferably arranged in the main body 32 or the receiving chamber 33.

[0099] Preferably, the additional sensor 72, the status light 74, the data storage device 76, the electrical energy storage device 78, the communication interface 80, the temperature sensor 82, the at least one acceleration sensor 84, the gyroscope 86, the position-determining device 88, the internal pressure sensor 90, and / or the control device 92 can be supported jointly on the detachable base 34, e.g., via a printed circuit board (PCB) supported by the base. They can thus be inserted, together with the base 34, into the main body 32 or the receiving chamber 33 for assembly and removed from the main body 32 or the receiving chamber 33 for disassembly.

[0100] The additional sensor 72 is preferably arranged in a bottom region of the sensor container 10. For example, the additional sensor 72 can be arranged in the detachable bottom 34. The additional sensor 72 can be operatively connected to the main body 32 for receiving a vertical force acting on the main body 32. Preferably, the additional sensor 72 can output signals to the control device 92 indicating the measured vertical forces.

[0101] The status light 74 can be arranged on the sensor container 10 so that it is visible from the outside. Preferably, the status light 74 can be arranged on a top side of the sensor container 10. For example, the status light 74 can be arranged and attached to the outside of the main body 32.

[0102] The status light 84 can be operated by the control device 92 to indicate an operating state and / or an error state. For example, the control device 92 can operate the status light 74 to illuminate, e.g., in green, when the sensor container 10 is activated or ready for operation. For example, the control device 92 can operate the status light 74 to illuminate, e.g., in red, when a component of the sensor container 10 outputs an error message. It is also conceivable, for example, for the control device 92 to operate the status light 94 to illuminate, e.g., in red or yellow, when the electrical energy storage device 78 falls below a predetermined charge level and / or when an available storage capacity of the data storage device 76 falls below a predetermined capacity value.

[0103] Various data can be stored on the data storage device 76. Preferably, the control device 92 can store any received signal, e.g., from the sensors 46, 58, and / or 70, on the data storage device 76. It is possible for data received from the respective treatment / measurement stations passed through to be stored on the data storage device 76. The data storage device 76 can, for example, be arranged in or on the base 34. Preferably, the data storage device 76 can be designed as a memory card removable from the sensor container 10, preferably its base 34. The data storage device 76 can, for example, be an SD card, a USB stick, a RAM memory, or an RFID-based memory.

[0104] For example, the data storage device 76 can also be embedded, such as cast or encapsulated. Advantageously, the data storage device 76 can thus be insensitive to influences (e.g., temperature, treatment medium, pressure, etc.) in the container treatment system 12.

[0105] Preferably, the stored data can be read from the data storage device 76 at any location in the container processing system 12. It is also conceivable that the data can be forwarded to a receiving point (machine, line, so-called Readykit (data collection device), edge device, and / or line management system, etc.) at a specific location or at a specific time.

[0106] The electrical energy storage device 78 can supply any electrical component of the sensor container 10 with electrical energy, e.g., the control device 92.

[0107] The electrical energy storage device 78 can, for example, be arranged in or on the base 34. The electrical energy storage device 78 can preferably be designed as an energy storage device, e.g., a battery pack, that can be removed from the sensor container 10, preferably its base 34.

[0108] The communication interface 80 can be configured for wireless and / or wired data transmission. The control device 92 can operate the communication interface 80 to transmit data. For example, any sensor signals can be sent from the communication interface 80. The communication interface 80 can, for example, use WiFi / WLAN, Bluetooth, NFC, infrared, 4G, or 5G technology. The communication interface 80 can transmit the measured values ​​acquired by the sensors, e.g., 46, for example, in real time or after passing through the container treatment system 12.

[0109] It is possible for communication with the container treatment system 10 and / or any device (e.g., the preform feeding device 14, the preform heating device 16, the container manufacturing device 18, the rinsing device 20, the filling device 22, the labeling device 26, the packaging device 28, and / or the palletizing device 30) of the container treatment system 10 to be carried out by means of the communication interface 80.

[0110] For example, operating parameters from the container treatment system 12 and / or the respective device, e.g., 14-30, can be received via the communication interface 80. These received operating parameters can then be assigned to the detected variables and / or compared with them. Alternatively or additionally, at least one operating parameter can be sent via the communication interface 80 to the container treatment system 12 and / or any device, e.g., 14-30, for adjusting the container treatment system 12 and / or the respective device, e.g., 14-30.

[0111] Preferably, the communication interface 80 can be used to immediately forward data in packets or in real time (as required) to the machine, line, so-called Readykit (data collection device), edge device or line management system, etc.

[0112] A combination of reading data from the data storage 76 and communicating via the communication interface 80, as explained above, is also conceivable, in order to set up data acquisition redundantly if necessary. In particular, with such a combination, it is also conceivable that only raw data is stored on the data storage 76, and the data supplemented with metadata is transmitted via the communication interface 80 for data transmission. This allows data backup to be realized by the sensor container 10, while the data storage 76 can be kept relatively small.

[0113] The temperature sensor 82 can detect a temperature in or on the sensor container 10. Preferably, the temperature sensor 82 can output signals to the control device 92 indicating the measured temperatures.

[0114] The at least one acceleration sensor 84 can detect an acceleration of the sensor container 10 with respect to one, two, or three spatial axes. Preferably, the at least one acceleration sensor 84 can output signals to the control device 92 indicating the detected accelerations.

[0115] The gyroscope 86 can detect an orientation of the sensor container 10 with respect to one, two, or three spatial axes. Preferably, the gyroscope can output signals to the control device 92 indicating the detected orientations.

[0116] The position-determining device 88 can determine a current position of the sensor container 10. The position-determining device 88 is preferably a local position-determining device that can, for example, receive signals from stationary transmitters while the sensor container 10 is passing through the container treatment system 12 in order to determine a current position of the sensor container 10. The position-determining device 88 can preferably output signals to the control device 92 that indicate the determined positions. The position-determining device 88 can enable the measured values ​​acquired by the sensors, e.g., 46, to be stored in the container treatment system 12 with spatial resolution, to be transmitted, and evaluated, e.g., to be visualized.

[0117] The internal pressure sensor 90 can detect an internal pressure in the sensor container 10 or the main body 32. Preferably, the internal pressure sensor 90 can output signals to the control device 92 indicating the detected internal pressures.

[0118] The component 46, 58, 70, 72, 82, 84, 86, 88 and / or 90 can preferably record its measured values ​​at a rate of ≥ 40 Hz, ≥ 50 Hz, ≥ 60 Hz, ≥ 70 Hz or ≥ 80 Hz and / or output them to the control device 92.

[0119] It is possible for the sensor container 10 to have a unique identifier for individual identification of the sensor container 10. The unique identifier can, for example, be a physical identifier, e.g., a marking, label, or code on an exterior of the sensor container 10. The unique identifier can also be a digital identifier.

[0120] Using the individual identifier, a unique assignment can be made when multiple sensor containers 10 pass through the container treatment system 12. This unique assignment and recognition can then have the additional advantage, for example, that the sensor container 10 is recognized as a sensor container by the respective machine / device (e.g., 14 - 30) and the treatment can be adjusted accordingly, as described further below for exemplary application cases.

[0121] The Fig. 3 to 5 show different views of an embodiment of a partially assembled sensor container 10'.

[0122] The sensor container 10' can, for example, have four bands / strips / layers of sensor assemblies, e.g., 36 and 48. Each can comprise four contact elements, e.g., 38, arranged at the same height. The wall sections, e.g., 42, can be guided in openings in the main body 32. The sensors, e.g., 46, can be screwed to the main body 32. The contact elements, e.g., 38, can be screwed to the sensors, e.g., 46, of the respective sensor assembly, e.g., 36.

[0123] The Fig. 6 to 8 show different views of an embodiment of a sensor container 10''.

[0124] The sensor container 10" may, for example, comprise three bands / strips / layers of sensor assemblies 36, 48, 60. Each may comprise three contact elements arranged at the same height, namely three contact elements 38, three contact elements 50, and three contact elements 62. The pin sections, e.g., 44, may extend through openings in the main body 32. The sensors, e.g., 46, may be screwed to the main body 32 (screw connections in the Fig. 6 to 8 not shown). The contact elements, e.g. 38, can be screwed to the sensors, e.g. 46, of the respective sensor assembly, e.g. 36 (screw connections in the Fig. 6 to 8 not shown).

[0125] It is understood that the sensor containers 10', 10'' may include any feature described herein with respect to the sensor container 10, individually or in any combination.

[0126] Some exemplary applications for the sensor container 10 (10', 10") are described below. These application examples are described only with reference to the sensor container 10. It is understood that the sensor containers 10' and 10" or other sensor containers (e.g., without the sensor assemblies 36, 48, 60) could also be used in these application examples.

[0127] (1) The sensor container 10 can be geometrically designed, for example, to resemble a PET container that a customer would like to drive. The sensor container 10 can also have a small reservoir, e.g., like the actual interior volume of a real container. The sensor container 10 can then be pre-pressurized with air in the labeling device 26 like a real container, thereby collecting data regarding the pre-pressurization pressure. This pre-pressurization pressure can be adjusted accordingly to the reservoir of the sensor container 10 and then mathematically recalculated to the volume of a normal container. Should the values ​​then deviate from one another, they can be monitored accordingly or deductions can be made. The sensor container 10 can be in constant communication with the labeling device 26 as it passes through.

[0128] The reservoir can, for example, also be designed solely to accommodate a pressure sensor and measure the preload pressure of the labeling device 26. In addition to the above-described pressure calculation based on the relatively small reservoir, it is also conceivable for the sensor container 10 to identify itself as a sensor container when passing through the labeling device 26 (e.g., by means of the individual identifier). The labeling device 26 can react accordingly. Thus, the small reservoir of the sensor container 10 can also be preloaded with less air, namely just as much as the air intake would be proportionally in the total volume of a normal container.

[0129] (2) Another application would be a (container) inspection unit plus the downstream discharge unit, e.g., with a pusher. The sensor container 10 can be provided with a special marking on its outer circumference, for example, which enables calibration of the inspection unit.

[0130] In practice, for example, the problem may arise that the conveyor chain (as is the case everywhere in the line) is subject to chain elongation in the inspection unit. If the chain elongates too much, the reject unit may, after receiving a signal from the inspection unit, reject a container, but due to the chain elongation, it may not hit the container center, resulting in incorrect rejects or no rejects at all.

[0131] The sensor container 10 can communicate with the inspection unit via the communication interface 80. The inspection unit can calibrate itself using the markings on the sensor container 10.

[0132] Alternatively or additionally, a signal for discharge could also be generated. For example, the load on the sensor container 10 could be used to calculate exactly where this load occurred, allowing chain elongation to be determined based on belt speeds and friction coefficients and taken into account in the future.

[0133] (3) Applications for the sensor container 10 also arise in the filling device 22. The sensor container 10 can, for example, be introduced into the container flow during aseptic filling and be equipped with (e.g., bio) markers that can measure the quality of the cleanroom environment in the cleanroom. Preferably, the sensor container 10 can be introduced into the cleanroom via an airlock.

[0134] (4) The sensor container 10 can be provided with a (e.g., bio-)marker and moved through a pasteurization device. Therein, the sensor container 10 can, for example, measure pressures in the mass flow on the marathon belt. Additionally, the biosensor / biomarker can, for example, examine (e.g., measure) the pasteurization medium of the pasteurization device, which is also referred to as process water and must be regularly treated. Alternatively or additionally, the actual temperature during a so-called pasteurization sprinkling in the pasteurization device can be measured using the temperature sensor 82 and sent to the pasteurization device via the communication interface 80.

[0135] (5) For example, in a glass container processing plant, the sensor container 10, which is geometrically adapted to the glass container, can pass through a cleaning device, e.g., together with the normal glass containers. The temperature gradient from the inlet of the cleaning device to the outlet of the cleaning device often plays a role, as excessive thermal differences can lead to stresses in the glass container or even breakage.

[0136] In a specific application, the sensor container 10 can measure a temperature at the inlet of the cleaning device and also at the outlet of the cleaning device using the temperature sensor 82. These measured temperatures can then be linked or combined, for example, with the temperature of the supplied glass containers in order to derive conclusions for process optimization.

[0137] The invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Rather, a multitude of variants and modifications are possible, which also make use of the inventive concept and therefore fall within the scope of protection. In particular, the invention also claims protection for the subject matter and features of the subclaims, independently of the claims referred to. In particular, the individual features of independent claim 1 are each disclosed independently of one another. In addition, the features of the subclaims are also disclosed independently of all features of independent claim 1 and, for example, independently of the features relating to the presence and / or configuration of the main body, the sensor assemblies, the contact elements and / or the sensors of independent claim 1.All ranges stated herein are to be understood as being disclosed in such a way that all values ​​falling within the respective range are disclosed individually, e.g., also as preferred narrower outer limits of the respective range. List of reference symbols 10 sensor containers 12 Container treatment plant 14 Preform feeding device 16 Preform heating device 18 Container manufacturing device 20 Rinsing device 22 Filling device 24 Closing device 26 Labeling device 28 Packaging device 30 palletizing device 32 main bodies 33 Recording Chamber 34 Floor 36 Sensor assembly 38 Contact element 40 contact area 42 wall section 44 tenon section 46 Sensor 48 additional sensor modules 50 contact element 52 contact surface 54 wall section 56 tenon section 58 Sensor 60 other sensor modules 62 contact element 64 contact surface 66 wall section 68 tenon section 70 sensors 72 additional sensor 74 Status light 76 data storage 78 electrical energy storage 80 Communication interface 82 Temperature sensor 84 Accelerometer 86 Gyroscope 88 Positioning device 90 internal pressure sensor 92 Control device 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] US 11,209,409 B2

[0003] WO 2015 / 157851 A1

[0004] WO 2013 / 113122 A1

[0005]

Claims

[1] Sensor container (10) for monitoring a container treatment plant (12), the sensor container (10) comprising: a substantially tubular main body (32); and a plurality of sensor assemblies (36), each comprising: - a contact element (38) with a contact surface (40) for physically contacting objects in an environment of the sensor container (10); and - a sensor (46), preferably a strain gauge, wherein the sensor (46) is operatively connected to the contact element (38) of the respective sensor assembly (36) for receiving a force acting from the outside on the contact surface (40) of the contact element (38) of the respective sensor assembly (36), wherein: the contact elements (38) of the plurality of sensor assemblies (36) are arranged substantially at the same height with respect to the main body (32) and distributed around an outer circumference of the main body (32), preferably spaced apart from one another, particularly preferably equidistant. [2] Sensor container (10) according to claim 1, wherein: the contact elements (38) are each carried and / or fastened to the main body (32) via the sensor (46) of the respective sensor assembly (36). [3] Sensor container (10) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: the sensors (46) are arranged within the main body (32); and / or the contact elements (38) are arranged in sections outside of the main body (32) and / or extend in sections through openings of the main body (32). [4] Sensor container (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the contact elements (38) each have a substantially mushroom-shaped cross-section; and / or the contact elements (38) each have a wall section (42), preferably substantially in the shape of a hollow cylinder segment or a block, with the contact surface (40) and a pin section (44), wherein the pin section (44) connects the wall section (42) to the sensor (46) of the respective sensor assembly (36). [5] Sensor container (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: a total number of sensors (46) of the plurality of sensor assemblies (36) is odd, preferably three or five. [6] Sensor container (10) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: an additional sensor (72) arranged in a bottom region of the sensor container (10), preferably in a bottom (34) of the sensor container (10) which is detachable from the main body (32), wherein the additional sensor (72) is operatively connected to the main body (32) for receiving a vertical force acting on the main body (32). [7] Sensor container (10) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a status light (74), preferably a status LED, wherein the status light (74) is arranged on the sensor container (10) so as to be visible from the outside, preferably on an upper side of the sensor container (10). [8] Sensor container (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of: the main body (32) is formed from several superimposed, preferably additively manufactured, material layers; the contact elements (38) are each formed from several superimposed, preferably additively manufactured, material layers, and the sensors (46) are each formed from several superimposed, preferably additively manufactured, material layers. [9] Sensor container (10) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: several further sensor assemblies (48), each comprising: - a contact element (50) with a contact surface (52) for physically contacting objects in the environment of the sensor container (10); and - a sensor (58) which is operatively connected to the contact element (38) of the respective further sensor assembly (48) for receiving a force acting from the outside on the contact surface (52) of the contact element (50) of the respective further sensor assembly (48), wherein: the contact elements (50) of the plurality of further sensor assemblies (48) are arranged substantially at the same height with respect to the main body (32), below the contact elements (38) of the plurality of sensor assemblies (36) and distributed around the outer circumference of the main body (32), preferably spaced apart from one another, particularly preferably equidistant. [10] Sensor container (10) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one of: a data memory (76), preferably a removable memory card, for storing sensor signals; an electrical, preferably removable, energy storage device (78); a control device (92); a communication interface (80) for wireless and / or wired transmission of data; a temperature sensor (82); at least one acceleration sensor (84); a gyroscope (86); a position determining device (88); an internal pressure sensor (90); and an individual identifier for individual identification of the sensor container (10), wherein preferably: the data memory (76), the electrical energy storage device (78), the control device (92), the communication interface (80), the temperature sensor (82), the at least one acceleration sensor (84), the gyroscope (86), the position determining device (88), the internal pressure sensor (90) and / or the individual identifier is carried on a base (34) of the sensor container (10) which is detachable from the main body (32). [11] Method for producing a sensor container (10) according to one of the preceding claims for a container treatment plant (12), comprising at least one of: additive manufacturing, preferably 3D printing, of the contact elements (38) of the plurality of sensor assemblies (36), wherein: - a dimensioning of the contact elements (38) of the plurality of sensor assemblies (36) is predetermined depending on a dimensioning of containers treated in the container treatment plant (12) such that an outer circumference of the sensor container (10) predetermined by the contact elements (38) corresponds to an outer circumference of the containers; and / or - a shape of the contact surfaces (40) of the contact elements (38) of the plurality of sensor assemblies (36) is predetermined depending on a shape of containers treated in the container treatment plant (12) such that the shape of the contact surfaces (40) is adapted to the shape of the containers, additive manufacturing, preferably 3D printing, of the sensors (46) of the plurality of sensor assemblies (36); and additive manufacturing, preferably 3D printing, of the main body (32). [12] A method for monitoring a container treatment plant (12) for treating containers, the method comprising: Providing at least one sensor container (10) according to one of claims 1 to 10; and Passing through at least one section of the container treatment system (12) by means of the at least one sensor container (10), wherein the sensors (46) detect the forces acting on the contact elements (38). [13] The method of claim 12, wherein at least one of: the at least one sensor container (10) has substantially the same external dimensions and / or substantially the same external contour as the containers; the at least one sensor container (10) passes through the section of the container treatment plant (12) together with the containers; the section of the container treatment plant (12) is a container mass transport section; and the at least one sensor container (10) has a plurality of sensor containers (10), each with an individual identifier for individual identification. [14] A method according to claim 12 or claim 13, wherein: the at least one sensor container (10) communicates with the container treatment plant (12) and / or at least one device (14 - 30) of the container treatment plant (12) by means of a communication interface (80) during the passage, preferably: - for receiving operating parameters of the container treatment plant (12) and / or the at least one device (14 - 30); and / or - for sending operating parameters for setting the container treatment system (12) and / or the at least one device (14 - 30). [15] A computer program product comprising instructions that cause an additive manufacturing device to: to carry out a method according to claim 11; or to produce the main body (32), the contact elements (38) and / or the sensors (46) of a sensor container (10) according to one of claims 1 to 10 in a plurality of layers in an additive manufacturing process, preferably in a common additive manufacturing process.

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