Method and system for treating containers

Abstract

The invention relates, inter alia, to a method for treating containers (12). The method comprises filling a container (12) with a first filling material by means of a first filling station (24) of a first filling device (22) in a cleanroom (14). The method further comprises transporting the container (12) from the first filling device (22) to a second filling device (36) by means of a transport device (34) in the cleanroom (14). The method further comprises filling the container (12) with a second filling material by means of a second filling station (38) of the second filling device (36) in the cleanroom (14).

Description

Technical area

[0001] The invention relates to a method for treating containers, preferably cans. The invention further relates to a container treatment plant, preferably a can treatment plant. Technical background

[0002] In beverage bottling plants that fill beverages with (fruit) pieces, this can be done with a single filler, for example, up to a certain particle size. The beverage can be fully mixed and then filled with the filler. Beyond a certain particle size, such filling with a single filler may no longer be process-reliable. In such a case, the pieces can be "pre-filled" into the container using a pre-dosing filler, for example, and transferred to a main filler, which then fills the actual beverage.

[0003] EP 2 412 664 A2 discloses a method for filling containers with multi-component flowable media, comprising filling a first component into the container to be filled by means of a first filling device, transporting the container filled with the first component of the liquid to a second filling device, and filling a second component of the liquid into the container filled with the first component by means of the second filling device.

[0004] For microbiological reasons, the pre-dosage can be filled using hot filling. This hot filling process can have several disadvantages. Hot filling can be energy-intensive, as the product must be kept hot for a long time. Hot filling can be a complex process, as the product must be kept hot at all times (preheating before production begins, keeping hot even during downtime, etc.). Hot filling can negatively impact product properties, as the thermal stress can affect the product's taste, color, structure, etc.

[0005] The invention is based on the object of creating an improved technology for the hygienic filling of a filling material with pieces for a container treatment plant. Summary of the invention

[0006] The problem is solved by the features of the independent claims. Advantageous further developments are specified in the dependent claims and the description.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for treating containers, preferably cans, (e.g., in a container treatment plant). The method comprises filling a first filling material into a container by means of a first filling station of a first filling device (e.g., filler carousel) in a clean room (e.g., after internal and / or external cleaning of the first filling device and / or after internal and / or external sterilization of the first filling station). The method comprises transporting the container (filled with the first filling material) from the first filling device to a second filling device by means of a transport device (e.g., comprising at least one transport star) in the clean room. The method comprises filling a second filling material into the container (filled with the first filling material) by means of a second filling station of the second filling device (e.g., filler carousel) in the clean room (e.g.,after internal and / or external cleaning of the second filling device and / or after internal and / or external sterilization of the second filling station).

[0008] The process can advantageously enable particularly gentle and hygienic filling of liquids containing granules. Filling both the first and second filling products in a cleanroom can eliminate the need for complex hot filling. This also advantageously saves the energy and process technology otherwise required for hot filling. A block design, or blocking the first and second filling devices via the transport device, can also enable a small system footprint and a comparatively small cleanroom.

[0009] Preferably, containers are filled continuously one after the other by the first filling station and the second filling station.

[0010] In one embodiment, the filling of the first filling material is a cold filling process, preferably after the first filling material has previously been briefly heated, and / or the filling of the second filling material is a cold filling process, preferably after the second filling material has previously been briefly heated. Advantageously, the clean room can thus already enable such hygienic filling that hot filling can be dispensed with. This enables particularly energy-saving and product-friendly filling.

[0011] Cold filling can preferably be understood as a filling temperature between 1°C and 20°C, preferably between 4°C and 10°C. Cold filling can also be understood as filling at room temperature, which can take place at (filling or room) temperatures between approximately 20°C and approximately 30°C. In contrast to cold filling, hot filling, for example, is carried out at filling temperatures between 80°C and 95°C.

[0012] In another embodiment, the cleanroom is pressurized with sterile air, preferably at a pressure level above the cleanroom's ambient. This advantageously prevents particles or microorganisms from entering the cleanroom from outside.

[0013] Preferably, the method may further comprise transporting the container (filled with the first filling material and the second filling material) from the second filling device to a closing device by means of a further transport device in the clean room. The method further comprises closing the container (filled with the first filling material and the second filling material) by means of a closing station of the closing device (e.g., a closing carousel) in the clean room. Advantageously, this allows a closure to be applied to the container directly after filling, thus ensuring a particularly hygienic process.

[0014] In a further embodiment, the first filling material is a liquid with (e.g., fruit) solids (e.g., particles, fibers, pulp, or pieces). Alternatively or additionally, the second filling material is a liquid without solids or with fewer (e.g., fruit) solids (e.g., particles, fibers, pulp, or pieces) than the first filling material.

[0015] In one embodiment, the container is a can, preferably a beverage can or a canned food can. This advantageously allows for hygienic cleanroom filling of cans containing beverages with fruit pieces or similar.

[0016] In a further embodiment, the container is supported at the bottom by the first filling device, the transport device, and / or the second filling device and / or is transported using base handling. This advantageously prevents (potentially unhygienic) contact with a container opening on the top of the container during transport.

[0017] In one embodiment, the container is sterilized before filling with the first product, preferably in an inlet lock of the clean room. This advantageously allows for particularly hygienic filling.

[0018] In a further exemplary embodiment, the method further comprises external cleaning, preferably spraying, of the first filling device with an external cleaning medium, preferably a hot lye (e.g. sodium hydroxide), by means of a first external cleaning device of the first filling device, e.g. in a cleaning operation of the container treatment plant. Alternatively or additionally, the method can further comprise external cleaning, preferably spraying, of the second filling device with an external cleaning medium, preferably a hot lye (e.g. sodium hydroxide), by means of a second external cleaning device of the second filling device, e.g. in a cleaning operation of the container treatment plant. This can advantageously ensure that the filling stations, etc., can be kept hygienic, thus enabling hygienic filling. In combination with the clean room concept, for example,A product-friendly and energy-saving cold filling of the first and / or second filling product can be made possible, while still ensuring particularly hygienic treatment of the containers.

[0019] Preferably, the first filling device and / or the second filling device can rotate during external cleaning at a speed which is lower than a speed in a normal filling mode.

[0020] Preferably, the clean room can be free of the containers during the external cleaning of the first filling device and / or the second filling device.

[0021] In one embodiment, the first external cleaning device and the second external cleaning device are supplied with the external cleaning medium from a common external cleaning medium source. This advantageously allows for the integration of process technology, thus saving costs and space.

[0022] In a further embodiment, the method further comprises external sterilization of the first filling device with an external sterilization medium by means of a first external sterilization device of the first filling device, preferably after external cleaning of the first filling device, e.g. in a sterilization operation of the container treatment plant. Alternatively or additionally, the method can further comprise external sterilization of the second filling device with an external sterilization medium by means of a second external sterilization device of the second filling device, preferably after external cleaning of the second filling device, e.g. in a sterilization operation of the container treatment plant. This can advantageously ensure that the filling stations, etc., can be kept sterile, thus enabling sterile filling. In combination with the clean room concept, for example,A product-friendly and energy-saving cold filling of the first and / or second filling product can be made possible, while still ensuring particularly hygienic treatment of the containers.

[0023] Optionally, the method may further comprise drying the first filling device and the second filling device after external cleaning and / or external sterilization. For example, a drying device may be included that can subject the first filling device and the second filling device to a heated sterile air stream during drying.

[0024] In one embodiment, the first external sterilization device and the second external sterilization device are supplied with the external sterilization medium from a common external sterilization medium source. This advantageously allows for the integration of process technology, thus saving costs and space.

[0025] In a further embodiment, the first filling device and / or the second filling device rotates during external sterilization at a speed that is lower than the speed in normal filling mode. This can advantageously facilitate the most complete external sterilization possible.

[0026] In one embodiment, the clean room is free of the containers during external sterilization of the first filling device and / or the second filling device.

[0027] In a further embodiment, the method further comprises internal cleaning, preferably CIP cleaning, of the first filling station with an internal cleaning medium, preferably from an internal cleaning medium source. Alternatively or additionally, the method comprises internal cleaning, preferably CIP cleaning, of the second filling station with an internal cleaning medium, preferably from the internal cleaning medium source (or from a different internal cleaning medium source). This can advantageously also ensure that the filling stations, etc., can be kept hygienic, thus enabling hygienic filling. In combination with the clean room concept and, if applicable, external cleaning, this can enable, for example, product-friendly and energy-saving cold filling of the first and / or second filling material, while still ensuring particularly hygienic treatment of the containers.

[0028] The term “CIP” stands for “Cleaning-In-Place”, a cleaning process in which the respective filling station does not have to be removed for internal cleaning, but can be flushed or steamed with a cleaning medium while installed.

[0029] In one embodiment, the method further comprises internal sterilization, preferably SIP cleaning, of the first filling station with an internal sterilization medium, preferably after internal cleaning of the first filling station. Alternatively or additionally, the method can comprise internal sterilization, preferably SIP cleaning, of the second filling station with an internal sterilization medium, preferably after internal cleaning of the second filling station. Preferably, the internal sterilization of the first filling station and the second filling station can be carried out simultaneously with external sterilization of the first filling device and the second filling device. This can advantageously also ensure that the filling stations, etc., can be kept sterile, thus enabling sterile filling. In combination with the clean room concept and, if applicable, external sterilization, for example,A product-friendly and energy-saving cold filling of the first and / or second filling product can be made possible, while still ensuring particularly hygienic treatment of the containers.

[0030] The term “SIP” stands for “Sterilizing-In-Place”, a sterilization process in which the respective filling station does not have to be removed for sterilization, but can be flushed or steamed with a sterilizing medium while installed.

[0031] In a further design variant, the internal sterilization medium for internal sterilization of the first filling station and the internal sterilization medium for internal sterilization of the second filling station are supplied from the same internal sterilization medium source. This advantageously allows for the integration of process technology, thus saving costs and space.

[0032] Preferably, the method may further comprise detecting a fill quantity and / or a fill weight of the first filling material in the container after filling the first filling material, preferably by means of a measuring device (e.g., a load cell, optical detection system, and / or filling probe). Preferably, the filling of the second filling material may be carried out depending on the detected fill quantity and / or the detected fill weight, preferably controlled by a control device.

[0033] Preferably, the method may further comprise detecting a total fill quantity and / or a total fill weight of the first and second fill materials in the container during the filling of the second fill material, preferably by means of a measuring device (e.g., a load cell, optical detection system, and / or a filling probe). Preferably, the filling of the second fill material into the container can be terminated when the detected total fill quantity corresponds to a target total fill quantity and / or when the detected total fill weight corresponds to a target total fill weight, preferably controlled by a control device.

[0034] Preferably, every second filling station can have its own measuring device.

[0035] Preferably, the term "control device" can refer to electronics (e.g., implemented as a driver circuit or with microprocessor(s) and data memory) and / or a mechanical, pneumatic, and / or hydraulic control system, which, depending on its design, can perform control tasks 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."

[0036] A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a container treatment plant (e.g., designed to carry out a method as disclosed herein), preferably a can treatment plant. The container treatment plant has a clean room that can be pressurized with sterile air, preferably to a pressure level above the environment of the clean room. The container treatment plant further has a first filling device (e.g., filler carousel) with at least one first filling station (e.g., designed and / or connected) for filling a first filling material into containers, wherein the first filling device is arranged in the clean room. The container treatment plant further has a second filling device (e.g., filler carousel) with at least one second filling station (e.g.,designed and / or connected) for filling a second filling material into the containers, wherein the second filling device is arranged in the clean room. The container treatment plant further comprises a transport device (e.g. comprising at least one transport star) which connects the first filling device and the second filling device for transporting the containers from the first filling device to the second filling device. The transport device is arranged in the clean room. Preferably, the transport device can support the containers on the floor during transport and / or transport them in base handling. Advantageously, the container treatment plant and the associated preferred embodiments can achieve the same advantages as have already been described with reference to the method.

[0037] It is possible for the container treatment plant to have a (e.g. centrally or distributed) control device configured to operate the container treatment plant to carry out a method as disclosed herein.

[0038] Preferably, the first filling device and the second filling device can be blocked with each other via the transport device.

[0039] Preferably, the container treatment plant can be designed as a container treatment line. The container treatment line can preferably have a line configuration in which the first filling device, the transport device and the second filling device are arranged one behind the other or sequentially in a line.

[0040] Particularly preferably, the first filling device can be operated as a pre-dosage filler of the container treatment plant, and the second filling device can be operated as a main filler of the container treatment plant.

[0041] In one embodiment, the at least one first filling station is designed: - for cold filling of the first filling product; and / or - to fill a liquid with solids (e.g. fibres, pulp, pieces or particles) as the first filling material into the respective container; and / or - to fill containers designed as cans with the first filling material; and / or - to support the respective container on the ground and / or to transport it using base handling.

[0042] In a further embodiment, the at least one second filling station is designed: - for cold filling of the second filling product; and / or - to fill the respective container as the second filling material with a liquid without solids or with fewer solids (e.g. fibres, pulp, pieces or particles) than the first filling material; and / or - to fill containers designed as cans with the second filling material; and / or - to support the respective container on the ground and / or to transport it using base handling.

[0043] In one embodiment, the first filling device has a first external cleaning device which is designed for external cleaning, preferably for spraying, the first filling device with an external cleaning medium, preferably a hot lye (e.g. sodium hydroxide).

[0044] In a further embodiment, the second filling device has a second external cleaning device which is designed for external cleaning, preferably for spraying, the second filling device with an external cleaning medium, preferably a hot lye (e.g. sodium hydroxide).

[0045] Optionally, the container treatment system may further comprise a common external cleaning medium source connected to the first external cleaning device and the second external cleaning device for supplying the external cleaning medium.

[0046] In one embodiment, the first filling device comprises a first external sterilization device configured to externally sterilize the first filling device with an external sterilization medium. Alternatively or additionally, the second filling device may comprise a second external sterilization device configured to externally sterilize the second filling device with an external sterilization medium. Preferably, the container treatment system may comprise a common external sterilization medium source connected to the first external sterilization device and the second external sterilization device for supplying the external sterilization medium.Preferably, the first and second external sterilization devices can each be designed as an integrated external cleaning and external sterilization device, or the first and second external sterilization devices can each be designed separately from a first and second external cleaning device of the first and second filling devices, respectively.

[0047] In one embodiment, the container treatment plant further comprises an inlet lock to the clean room, which is preferably designed to sterilize the containers, preferably the cans. Alternatively or additionally, the container treatment plant further comprises a closing device (e.g., a closing carousel) with at least one closing station designed to close the containers, wherein the closing device is arranged in the clean room. Alternatively or additionally, the container treatment plant further comprises a further transport device that connects the second filling device and the closing device for transporting the containers from the second filling device to the closing device, wherein the further transport device is arranged in the clean room. Preferably, the further transport device can support the containers on the floor during transport and / or transport them using base handling.

[0048] Preferably, the second filling device and the closing device can be blocked with each other via the further transport device.

[0049] For example, the containers can be designed as bottles, cans, canisters, cartons, flacons, tubes, etc.

[0050] The previously described preferred embodiments and features of the invention can be combined with one another as desired. Short description of the figure

[0051] Further details and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawing. It shows Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a container treatment plant according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed description of exemplary embodiments

[0052] The Fig. 1 shows a container treatment plant 10.

[0053] Preferably, the container treatment plant 10 is designed as a can treatment plant, ie a plant for treating containers 12 designed as cans, e.g., beverage cans or food cans. Preferably, the containers 12 can be supported on the bottom during transport through the container treatment plant 10 or can be transported in base handling.

[0054] The container treatment plant 10 comprises a clean room 14, a first filling device 22, a transport device 34, and a second filling device 36. The first and second filling devices 22, 36 are preferably designed as can filling devices, particularly preferably as can filling carousels or rotary can fillers.

[0055] The first filling device 22, the transport device 34, and the second filling device 36 are arranged in the clean room 14. The optional closure device 50 and the optional additional transport device 48 can also be arranged in the clean room 14.

[0056] The cleanroom 14 can also be referred to as an isolator. The cleanroom 14 can be essentially free of or low in particles (e.g., particles of all types and sizes). The cleanroom 14 can also be designed or referred to as a sterile room or aseptic room, since it is preferably essentially free of microorganisms.

[0057] The clean room 14 can be supplied with sterile air. Preferably, the clean room 14 can be supplied with sterile air in such a way that the air pressure inside the clean room 14 is greater than in the surroundings of the clean room 14 or outside the clean room 14.

[0058] A sterile air source 16 can be connected to the clean room 14. The sterile air source 16 can supply sterile air to the clean room 14. The sterile air source 16 can, for example, have at least one air filter and / or an air conveying device, e.g., a blower or compressor.

[0059] Preferably, the sterile air source 16 can be arranged outside the clean room 14 or can be accessible from outside the clean room 14, so that components (e.g. air filter and / or air conveyor) of the sterile air source 16 can preferably be maintained, repaired or replaced from outside the clean room 14.

[0060] The clean room 14 can, for example, have an enclosure. The first filling device 22, the transport device 34, and the second filling device 36 can be enclosed by the enclosure. The optional closure device 50 and the optional additional transport device 48 can also be enclosed by the enclosure.

[0061] The clean room 14 can have an inlet lock 18 for the containers 12. A transport device can transport the containers 12 through the inlet lock 18 from outside the clean room 14 into the clean room 14. Preferably, the containers 12 can be sterilized or disinfected in the inlet lock 18 or upstream of it. For example, the containers 12 can be treated with a sterilization medium containing hydrogen peroxide, e.g., sprayed or fogged, in the inlet lock or upstream of it.

[0062] The clean room 14 can further include an outlet lock 20 for the containers 12. The outlet lock 20 can, for example, be located downstream (of the container) from the closure device 50. A transport device can convey the containers 12 through the outlet lock 20 from inside the clean room 14 to outside the clean room 14.

[0063] The first filling device 22 can be arranged downstream of the inlet lock with respect to a container flow through the container treatment plant 10. For example, the first filling device 22 can be arranged directly downstream of an (input) transport device for the containers 12, which can be arranged (e.g., directly) downstream of the inlet lock 18. This transport device can, for example, have at least one transport star.

[0064] The first filling device 22 has at least one first filling station 24. Preferably, the first filling device 22 has a plurality of first filling stations 24. Preferably, one container 12 can be filled in each of the plurality of first filling stations 24. Thus, in the plurality of first filling stations 24, several of the containers 12 can be filled simultaneously or at least in an overlapping manner.

[0065] Preferably, the first filling device 22 can be designed as a filler carousel or a rotary filler. The first filling stations 24 can be arranged distributed around a circumference of the first filling device 22, preferably equidistant. However, it is also possible for the first filling device 22 to be, for example, a linear filler with several filling stations arranged in series one behind the other and / or next to each other (not shown). Fig. 1).

[0066] The first filling stations 24 can each fill a container 12 with a first filling material, preferably contactlessly or with the container 12 pressed against a filling element of the respective first filling station 24. The first filling material is preferably a liquid with solids, such as particles, pieces, fibers and / or pulp.

[0067] The containers 12 can be transported in the first filling stations 24, e.g., from an inlet area of ​​the first filling device 22 to an outlet area of ​​the first filling device 22. During transport in the first filling stations 24, the containers 12 can be supported on the bottom or transported in base handling.

[0068] Specifically, the containers 12 can be filled with the first filling material by the first filling stations 24 in a section or phase I. After filling with the first filling material, the containers 12 in the first filling stations 24 can be transported through a rest section II in which no filling takes place. In a section III, the respective outlets of the filling elements of the first filling stations 24 can be blown out. In this way, for example, residues of the first filling material can still be conveyed into the respective container 12 and the respective filling elements can be freed of the residues. In a further section IV, residues of the first filling material can still drip from the filling elements of the first filling stations 24 into the containers 12.

[0069] Preferably, the first filling stations 24 are designed for so-called cold filling of the first filling material. If desired, the first filling material can be briefly heated prior to cold filling. For example, the first filling material can be heated by a short-time heater. For example, the first filling material can be briefly heated by the short-time heater in a supply line to the first filling device 22. The short-time heater can be arranged, for example, in the clean room 14 or outside the clean room 14.

[0070] Preferably, the at least one first filling station 24 can have a so-called cleaning cap or (CIP) Cleaning-In-Place or (SIP) Sterilizing-In-Place cleaning cap (not separately in Fig. 1). Preferably, the cleaning cap can be movable beneath a filling element of the respective first filling station 24 to enable CIP internal cleaning and / or SIP internal sterilization, with the first filling station 24 remaining installed. An internal cleaning medium can be supplied from an internal cleaning medium source to the filling element of the respective first filling station 24. Alternatively or additionally, an internal sterilization medium can be supplied from an internal sterilization medium source to the filling element of the respective first filling station 24.

[0071] The first filling device 22 can have a first external cleaning and / or external sterilization device 26 for automatic external cleaning and / or external sterilization. Preferably, the first external cleaning and / or external sterilization device 26 can be arranged stationary.

[0072] The first external cleaning and / or external sterilization device 26 can preferably clean the first filling device 22, preferably the at least one first filling station 24, from the outside with an external cleaning medium and / or sterilize it from the outside with an external sterilization medium. For example, the first external cleaning and / or external sterilization device 26 can spray or flush the first filling device 22, preferably the at least one first filling station 24, with the external cleaning medium and / or the external sterilization medium. The external cleaning medium is preferably a hot lye. For example, sodium hydroxide can be used. The external sterilization medium can be, for example, hydrogen peroxide.

[0073] The first external cleaning and / or external sterilization device 26 can be connected to an external cleaning medium source 28. The external cleaning medium source 28 can supply the external cleaning medium to the first external cleaning and / or external sterilization device 26. For example, the external cleaning medium source 28 can have a pump and a reservoir for the external cleaning medium. The external cleaning medium source 28 can be located in the clean room 14 or outside the clean room 14.

[0074] For heating the external cleaning medium, the first external cleaning and / or external sterilization device 26 or the external cleaning medium source 28 may have a heating device.

[0075] The first external cleaning and / or external sterilization device 26 can be connected to an external sterilization medium source 29. The external sterilization medium source 29 can supply the external sterilization medium to the first external cleaning and / or external sterilization device 26. For example, the external sterilization medium source 29 can comprise a pump or a compressor and a reservoir for the external sterilization medium. The external sterilization medium source 29 can be arranged in the clean room 14 or outside the clean room 14.

[0076] For example, the first external cleaning and / or external sterilization device 26 may have a pipe system 30 and at least one nozzle 32.

[0077] The pipe system 30 can be connected to the external cleaning medium source 28 and / or the external sterilization medium source 29. The pipe system 30 can, for example, be arranged around a circumference or part of the circumference of the first filling device 22. It is also possible for the pipe system 30 to be integrated into the first filling device 22. The pipe system 30 can, for example, be annular or have ring-segment-shaped sections.

[0078] The at least one nozzle 32 can be connected to the pipe system 30. The at least one nozzle 32 is preferably directed toward the at least one first filling station 24. For example, the at least one nozzle 32 can be directed radially inward relative to a central vertical axis of the first filling device 22. For example, at least one nozzle 32 can be included for each first filling station 24.

[0079] The transport device 34 connects the first filling device 22 and the second filling device 36 to each other, preferably directly. With respect to a container flow through the container treatment system 10, the transport device 34 can be arranged downstream of the first filling device 22 and upstream of the second filling device 36. The transport device 34 can transport the containers 12 from the first filling device 22 to the second filling device 36.

[0080] The transport device 34 preferably supports the containers 12 on the bottom during transport or transports the containers 12 in base handling. For example, the transport device 34 can have one or more transport stars, as shown for example in Fig. 1 is shown.

[0081] The second filling device 36 can be arranged downstream (in terms of container flow) of the first filling device 22 and the transport device 34 with respect to a container flow through the container treatment system 10. For example, the second filling device 22 can be arranged directly downstream of the transport device 34.

[0082] The second filling device 36 has at least one second filling station 38. Preferably, the second filling device 36 has a plurality of second filling stations 38. Preferably, one container 12 can be filled in each of the plurality of second filling stations 38. Thus, a plurality of containers 12 can be filled simultaneously or at least in a temporally overlapping manner in the plurality of second filling stations 38.

[0083] Preferably, the second filling device 36 can be designed as a filler carousel or a rotary filler. The second filling stations 38 can be arranged distributed around a circumference of the second filling device 36, preferably equidistant. However, it is also possible for the second filling device 36 to be, for example, a linear filler with several filling stations arranged in series one behind the other and / or next to each other (not shown). Fig. 1).

[0084] The second filling stations 38 can each fill a container 12 with a second filling material, preferably without contact or with the container 12 pressed against a filling element of the respective second filling station 38. The second filling material is preferably a liquid without solids or with fewer solids, such as particles, pieces, fibers and / or pulp, than the first filling material.

[0085] The containers 12 can be transported in the second filling stations 38, e.g., from an inlet area of ​​the second filling device 36 to an outlet area of ​​the second filling device 36. During transport in the second filling stations 38, the containers 12 can be supported on the bottom or transported in base handling.

[0086] The second filling stations 38 can each have a filling device for filling the second filling material and a (e.g., weight) measuring device 40. The measuring device 40 can detect a filling quantity and / or a filling weight of the first filling material in the container 12 positioned in the respective second filling station 38. The measuring device 40 can preferably be a load cell. The measuring device 40 can preferably be arranged in or on a support plate of the respective second filling station 38. The support plate can support the bottom of the container 12 positioned in the respective second filling station 38.

[0087] Specifically, the containers 12 in the second filling stations 38 can first undergo a settling phase or settling section V, during which no filling yet takes place. After settling, the containers 12 in the second filling stations 38 can undergo a measuring section VI. In the measuring section VI, the measuring device 40 of the respective second filling station 38 can be used to individually determine for each container 12 how much of the first filling material is already in the respective container 12. The containers 12 can preferably be weighed by the respective measuring device 40. In a further section VII, the containers 12 are filled with the second filling material by the filling device of the respective second filling station 36. Preferably, a continuous weight measurement can be carried out by means of the measuring device 40 of the respective filling station during the filling of the second filling material, and the containers can be filled until a target total weight is reached or has been filled.

[0088] The second filling stations 38 are preferably designed for so-called cold filling of the second filling material. If desired, the second filling material can be briefly heated prior to cold filling. For example, the second filling material can be heated by a short-time heater. For example, the second filling material can be briefly heated by the short-time heater in a supply line to the second filling device 36. The short-time heater can be arranged, for example, in the clean room 14 or outside the clean room 14.

[0089] Preferably, the at least one second filling station 38 can have a so-called cleaning cap or (CIP) Cleaning-In-Place or (SIP) Sterilizing-In-Place cleaning cap (not separately in Fig. 1). Preferably, the cleaning cap can be movable under a filling element of the respective second filling station 38 in order to enable CIP internal cleaning and / or SIP internal sterilization, wherein the second filling station 38 remains installed. An internal cleaning medium can be supplied from an internal cleaning medium source to the filling element of the respective second filling station 38. The internal cleaning medium source can be the same source that also supplies internal cleaning medium to the first filling stations 24. Alternatively or additionally, an internal sterilization medium can be supplied from an internal sterilization medium source to the filling element of the respective second filling station 38. The internal sterilization medium source can be the same source that also supplies internal sterilization medium to the first filling stations 24.

[0090] The second filling device 36 can have a second external cleaning and / or external sterilization device 42 for automatic external cleaning and / or external sterilization. Preferably, the second external cleaning and / or external sterilization device 42 can be arranged stationary.

[0091] The second external cleaning and / or external sterilization device 42 can preferably clean the second filling device 36, preferably the at least one second filling station 38, from the outside with an external cleaning medium and / or sterilize it from the outside with an external sterilization medium. For example, the second external cleaning and / or external sterilization device 42 can spray or flush the second filling device 36, preferably the at least one second filling station 38, with the external cleaning medium and / or the external sterilization medium. The external cleaning medium is preferably a hot lye. For example, sodium hydroxide can be used. The external sterilization medium can be, for example, hydrogen peroxide.

[0092] The second external cleaning and / or external sterilization device 42 can be connected to the external cleaning medium source 28. The external cleaning medium source 28 can supply the external cleaning medium to the second external cleaning and / or external sterilization device 42. Alternatively or additionally, the second external cleaning and / or external sterilization device 42 could be connected to a (separate) further external cleaning medium source (not shown in Fig. 1).

[0093] For heating the external cleaning medium, the second external cleaning and / or external sterilization device 42 or, as already mentioned, the external cleaning medium source 28 can have a heating device.

[0094] The second external cleaning and / or external sterilization device 42 can be connected to the external sterilization medium source 29. The external sterilization medium source 29 can supply the external sterilization medium to the second external cleaning and / or external sterilization device 42. Alternatively or additionally, the second external cleaning and / or external sterilization device 42 could be connected to a (separate) further external sterilization medium source (not shown in Fig. 1).

[0095] For example, the second external cleaning and / or external sterilization device 42 may have a pipe system 44 and at least one nozzle 46.

[0096] The pipe system 44 can be connected to the external cleaning medium source 28, the further external cleaning medium source, the external sterilization medium source 29, and / or the further external sterilization medium source. The pipe system 44 can, for example, be arranged around a circumference or part of the circumference of the second filling device 36. It is also possible for the pipe system 44 to be integrated into the second filling device 36. The pipe system 44 can, for example, be annular or have ring-segment-shaped sections.

[0097] As explained, the first and second external sterilization devices 26, 42 can each be configured as an integrated external cleaning and external sterilization device. However, it is also possible for the external cleaning and external sterilization functions to be configured as separate devices (not shown in the figures). This means that the first external sterilization device can be separate from the first external cleaning device, and the second external sterilization device can be separate from the second external cleaning device.

[0098] The at least one nozzle 46 can be connected to the pipe system 44. The at least one nozzle 46 is preferably directed toward the at least one second filling station 38. For example, the at least one nozzle 46 can be directed radially inward relative to a central vertical axis of the second filling device 36. For example, at least one nozzle 46 can be included for each second filling station 38.

[0099] The additional transport device 48 can connect the second filling device 36 and the closing device 50 to each other, preferably directly. The additional transport device 48 can be arranged downstream (container-wise) of the second filling device 36 with respect to a container flow through the container treatment system 10. The additional transport device 48 can transport the containers 12 from the second filling device 36 to the closing device 50.

[0100] The further transport device 48 preferably supports the containers 12 on the bottom side during transport or transports the containers 12 in base handling. For example, the further transport device 48 can have at least one transport star, as shown for example in Fig. 1 is shown.

[0101] The closing device 50 can be arranged downstream (container-wise) of the second filling device 36 and the further transport device 48 with respect to a container flow through the container treatment system 10. For example, the closing device 50 can be arranged directly downstream of the further transport device 48.

[0102] During transport in the closing device 50, the containers 12 can be supported on the bottom or transported in base handling.

[0103] The closing device 50 can close the containers 12, e.g., with a (e.g., can) lid, a cork, a crown cap, or a screw cap. The closing device 50 can preferably be designed as a closing carousel. The closing device 50 can have multiple closing stations for the simultaneous or temporally overlapping closing of multiple containers 12. For example, the closing stations can be arranged around a circumference of the closing device 50, preferably equidistantly.

[0104] An (output) transport device, e.g., with at least one transfer star and / or at least one linear conveyor, can be arranged downstream of the closing device 50. This transport device can transport the containers 12, for example, to or through the outlet lock 20.

[0105] 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, independent 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. All ranges referred to herein are to be understood as disclosed in such a way that, as it were, all values ​​falling within the respective range are individually disclosed, e.g., also as preferred, narrower outer limits of the respective range. List of reference symbols 10 Container treatment plant 12 containers 14 Cleanroom 16 Sterile air source 18 Inlet lock 20 Outlet lock 22 first filling device 24 first filling station 26 first external cleaning and / or external sterilization device 28 External cleaning medium source 29 External sterilization medium source 30 pipe system 32 nozzle 34 Transport device 36 second filling device 38 second filling station 40 measuring device 42 second external cleaning and / or external sterilization device 44 Pipe system 46 nozzle 48 additional transport devices 50 Closing 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] EP 2 412 664 A2

[0003]

Claims

[1] A method for treating containers (12), preferably cans, the method comprising: Filling a first filling material into a container (12) by means of a first filling station (24) of a first filling device (22) in a clean room (14); Transporting the container (12) from the first filling device (22) to a second filling device (36) by means of a transport device (34) in the clean room (14); and Filling a second filling material into the container (12) by means of a second filling station (38) of the second filling device (36) in the clean room (14). [2] The method of claim 1, wherein: the filling of the first filling material is a cold filling, preferably after the first filling material has been briefly heated beforehand; and / or the filling of the second filling material is a cold filling, preferably after the second filling material has previously been briefly heated. [3] A method according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: the clean room (14) is pressurized with sterile air, preferably to a pressure level above an environment of the clean room (14). [4] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the first filling material is a liquid with solids; and / or the second filling material is a liquid with no or fewer solids than the first filling material. [5] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of: the container (12) is a can, preferably a beverage can or a can of food; the container (12) is supported on the bottom side by the first filling device (22), the transport device (34) and the second filling device (36) and / or is transported in base handling; and the container (12) is sterilized before filling the first filling material, preferably in an inlet lock (18) of the clean room (14). [6] Method according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: External cleaning, preferably spraying, of the first filling device (22) with an external cleaning medium, preferably a hot lye, by means of a first external cleaning device (26) of the first filling device (22); and External cleaning, preferably spraying, of the second filling device (36) with an external cleaning medium, preferably a hot lye, by means of a second external cleaning device (42) of the second filling device (36), wherein preferably: the first external cleaning device (26) and the second external cleaning device (42) are supplied with the external cleaning medium from a common external cleaning medium source (28). [7] Method according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: Externally sterilizing the first filling device (22) with an external sterilization medium by means of a first external sterilization device (26) of the first filling device (22), preferably after externally cleaning the first filling device (22); and External sterilization of the second filling device (36) with an external sterilization medium by means of a second external sterilization device (42) of the second filling device (36), preferably after external cleaning of the second filling device (36); and optionally Drying the first filling device (22) and the second filling device (36) after external sterilization. [8] The method of claim 7, wherein at least one of: the first external sterilization device (26) and the second external sterilization device (42) are supplied with the external sterilization medium from a common external sterilization medium source (29); the first filling device (22) and / or the second filling device (36) rotates during external sterilization at a speed which is lower than a speed in a normal filling mode; and the clean room is free of the containers (12) during the external sterilization of the first filling device (22) and / or the second filling device (36). [9] Method according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: Internal cleaning, preferably CIP cleaning, of the first filling station (24) with an internal cleaning medium, preferably from an internal cleaning medium source; and Internal cleaning, preferably CIP cleaning, of the second filling station (38) with the internal cleaning medium, preferably from the CIP cleaning medium source. [10] Method according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: Internal sterilization, preferably SIP cleaning, of the first filling station (24) with an internal sterilization medium, preferably after internal cleaning of the first filling station (24); and Internal sterilization, preferably SIP cleaning, of the second filling station (38) with an internal sterilization medium, preferably after internal cleaning of the second filling station (38), wherein preferably: the internal sterilization of the first filling station (24) and the second filling station (38) is carried out simultaneously with an external sterilization of the first filling device (22) and the second filling device (36); and / or the internal sterilization medium for internal sterilization of the first filling station (24) and the internal sterilization medium for internal sterilization of the second filling station (38) are supplied from the same internal sterilization medium source. [11] Container treatment plant (10), preferably can treatment plant, wherein the container treatment plant (10) comprises: a clean room (14) which can be supplied with sterile air, preferably to a pressure level above an environment of the clean room (14); a first filling device (22) with at least one first filling station (24) for filling a first filling material into containers (12), wherein the first filling device (22) is arranged in the clean room (14); a second filling device (36) with at least one second filling station (38) for filling a second filling material into the containers (12), wherein the second filling device (36) is arranged in the clean room (14); and a transport device (34) which connects the first filling device (22) and the second filling device (36) for transporting the containers (12) from the first filling device (22) to the second filling device (36), wherein the transport device (34) is arranged in the clean room (14), wherein the transport device (34) preferably supports the containers (12) on the floor during transport and / or transports them in base handling. [12] Container treatment plant (10) according to claim 11, wherein: the at least one first filling station (24) is designed: - for cold filling of the first filling product; and / or - to fill a liquid with solids as the first filling material into the respective container (12); and / or - to fill containers (12) designed as cans with the first filling material; and / or - to support the respective container (12) on the ground and / or to transport it by base handling; and / or the at least one second filling station (38) is designed: - for cold filling of the second filling product; and / or - to fill the respective container (12) with a liquid without solids or with fewer solids than the first filling material as the second filling material; and / or - to fill containers (12) designed as cans with the second filling material; and / or - to support the respective container (12) on the ground and / or to transport it by base handling. [13] Container treatment plant (10) according to claim 11 or claim 12, wherein: the first filling device (22) has a first external cleaning device (26) which is designed for external cleaning, preferably for spraying, of the first filling device (22) with an external cleaning medium, preferably a hot lye; and the second filling device (36) has a second external cleaning device (42) which is designed for external cleaning, preferably for spraying, the second filling device (36) with an external cleaning medium, preferably a hot lye; and optionally the container treatment plant has a common external cleaning medium source (28) which is connected to the first external cleaning device (26) and the second external cleaning device (42) for supplying the external cleaning medium. [14] Container treatment plant (10) according to one of claims 11 to 13, wherein: the first filling device (22) has a first external sterilization device (26) which is designed to externally sterilize the first filling device (22) with an external sterilization medium; and the second filling device (36) has a second external sterilization device (42) which is designed to externally sterilize the second filling device (36) with an external sterilization medium; wherein preferably: the container treatment system has a common external sterilization medium source (29) which is connected to the first external sterilization device (26) and the second external sterilization device (42) for supplying the external sterilization medium; and / or the first and second external sterilization devices (26, 42) are each designed as an integrated external cleaning and external sterilization device, or the first and second external sterilization devices are each designed separately from a first and second external cleaning device. [15] Container treatment plant (10) according to one of claims 11 to 14, further comprising: an inlet lock (18) to the clean room (14) which is designed to sterilize the containers (12), preferably the cans; and / or a closing device (50) with at least one closing station, which is designed to close the containers (12), wherein the closing device (50) is arranged in the clean room (14); and optionally a further transport device (48) which connects the second filling device (36) and the closing device (50) for transporting the containers (12) from the second filling device (36) to the closing device (50), wherein the further transport device (48) is arranged in the clean room (14), wherein preferably the further transport device (48) supports the containers (12) on the floor during transport and / or transports them in base handling.

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