Technology for diverting containers from a rotary filling device

Abstract

The invention relates, inter alia, to a rotary filling device (14) for filling containers (B) with a filling material. The rotary filling device (14) has several filling stations (16) that are arranged distributed around a circumference of the rotary filling device (14) and are rotatable about a main axis (H) of the rotary filling device (14). Each of the several filling stations (16) has a container holder (34) for holding a container (B) and a discharge element (38) for guiding the container (B) when it is discharged from the container holder (34). The discharge element (38) is movable relative to the container holder (34).

Description

Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a rotary filling device for filling containers with a product. The invention further relates to a container treatment system incorporating the rotary filling device. The invention also relates to a method for operating the rotary filling device or the container treatment system. Technical background

[0002] It is known to use conveyors in a container treatment plant to transport containers between different machines in the plant.

[0003] For example, in a filler-capper unit, the filler may have a different pitch than the capper. A conveyor chain can connect the filler and the capper. The pitch in the conveyor chain is fixed by the arrangement of the carriers. This means that every container conveyed by the conveyor chain has the same pitch. For example, the filler may have a pitch of 87 mm, the conveyor chain a pitch of 92 mm, and the capper a pitch of 105 mm. Attempts are made to compensate for the pitch difference between the filler and the capper by varying the speed of the conveyor chain and, for example, by using specially designed guide assemblies in the filler and capper. These measures aim to prevent the unsealed containers from spilling over during the transfer from the filler to the conveyor and from the conveyor to the capper.Especially with high-performance filling plants, overflowing containers are a regular critical issue.

[0004] DE 10 2020 116 779 A1 relates to a container treatment device, in particular a filling machine for filling cans or similar containers with a liquid product. The container treatment device comprises a first conveyor designed as a container inlet, a rotor with several treatment positions for treating the containers, located downstream of the rotor in the treatment direction and rotating around a machine axis, and a second conveyor designed as a container outlet. The second conveyor is designed as a chain conveyor, which has at least one guide finger moving with the conveying element on an endlessly rotating conveying element. This guide finger has a first and a second guide section and receives the containers, which are still unsealed, after being treated at the several treatment positions of the rotor.

[0005] The invention is based on the objective of creating an improved technique for discharging containers from a rotary filling device. Preferably, the technique should enable a gentle acceleration of the containers during discharging. Summary of the invention

[0006] The problem is solved by the features of independent claim 1. Advantageous further developments are specified in the dependent claims and the description.

[0007] One aspect concerns a rotary filling device for filling containers, preferably cans (e.g., beverage cans or food cans), with a (e.g., pasty or liquid) filling material. The rotary filling device has several filling stations arranged around its circumference and rotatable about a main axis. Each of the filling stations has a container holder for holding a container and a discharge element for guiding the container, preferably from the rear, as it is ejected from the container holder. The discharge element is movable relative to the container holder (e.g., by means of a movement mechanism of the filling station), preferably pivotable and / or displaceable.

[0008] The rotary filling device offers the advantage of allowing the discharge elements to be moved into a desired position as required. This enables, for example, a geometry and dimensioning of the discharge elements optimized for discharge, which would not be possible without this mobility. For instance, optimization due to design constraints outside the container discharge area of ​​the rotary filling device could be impossible or at least severely limited without this mobility. Thus, the discharge elements in the relevant container inlet area, for example, can be easily moved into a position where there is no risk of collision with the inlet conveyor. The discharge elements therefore advantageously enable a particularly smooth transition from the rotary filling device to an outlet conveyor, significantly reducing the likelihood of spillage. On the other hand, there are, for example...No problems occur at the filler inlet, as potential collision points are kinematically eliminated by the movement of the discharge elements, thanks to the geometry optimized and dimensioned solely for discharge.

[0009] In one embodiment, the discharge element is movable (e.g., pivotable and / or sliding) between a discharge position for diverting the container and a stowage position, in which, preferably, the radial projection of the discharge element (with respect to the main axis) beyond the container holder is reduced compared to the discharge position (e.g., to prevent a collision with an inlet conveyor). Advantageously, the discharge element can thus be positioned in the discharge position when discharge is desired and in the stowage position when the discharge element, for example, passes the inlet conveyor to prevent a collision.

[0010] In another embodiment, at least one of the following is fulfilled: - the discharge element is swung into the stowed position and / or retracted; - the discharge element is swung out and / or extended in the discharge position; - the discharge element is elastically prestressed to assume the stowed position or the discharge position.

[0011] Advantageously, this method enables a reliable and structurally simple movement of the discharge element.

[0012] In one embodiment, the discharge element extends the container holder radially outwards in the discharge position with respect to the main axis. Alternatively or additionally, the container holder can, for example, be designed as a receiving pocket for laterally supporting a surface of the container. Advantageously, this allows for a particularly smooth discharge and acceleration of the containers from the container holder to the discharge conveyor.

[0013] In another embodiment, the rotary filling device also has a control unit configured to: - to operate the discharge elements in such a way that they are in the discharge position (and not, for example, in the stowed position) within the container discharge area (e.g., the entire container discharge area) of the rotary filling device; and / or - to operate the discharge elements in such a way as to move them into the stowed position, so that the discharge elements in a container inlet area (e.g. in the entire container inlet area) of the rotary filling device are in the stowed position (and e.g. not in the discharge position).

[0014] This advantageously ensures that the discharge element in the container outlet area can optimally guide the discharge of the container and that the discharge element in the container inlet area does not collide with the inlet conveyor.

[0015] Preferably, the term "control unit" can refer to electronics (e.g., implemented as a driver circuit or with microprocessor(s) and data storage) and / or mechanical, pneumatic, and / or hydraulic control systems that, depending on their design, can perform control tasks, regulation tasks, and / or processing tasks. Although the term "control" is used here, it can also appropriately encompass or refer to "regulation" or "feedback control" and / or "processing." The control unit can, for example, be a central control unit or comprise several decentralized or distributed control units.

[0016] In one embodiment, the control device is a mechanical control device, preferably with a (e.g., stationary) control cam or a (e.g., stationary) control cam (for the stowed position or the discharge position) and with several control elements, preferably control rollers, for following the control cam or the control cam. The control elements are each operatively connected to the respective discharge element to move one of the discharge elements (e.g., into the discharge position and / or into the stowed position). Advantageously, this enables reliable control of all discharge elements without requiring an additional drive.

[0017] In another embodiment, each of the multiple filling stations also features an actuator, preferably electric, electromagnetic, pneumatic, or hydraulic, which moves the discharge element (of the respective filling station) relative to the container holder (e.g., into the discharge position and / or the storage position) in operative connection with the discharge element. This advantageously allows for a high degree of flexibility regarding the adaptability of the discharge element's movement, for example, to unlock further optimization potential during discharge and to further reduce the risk of spillage.

[0018] Preferably, the actuator can be operated by the control unit.

[0019] In one embodiment, at least one of the following is fulfilled: - the discharge element is designed as a retaining finger; - the discharge element is arranged to support the container from the rear; - one free end of the discharge element is chamfered; and - the discharge element is movably connected to the container holder (e.g. via a longitudinal guide and / or a pivot axis).

[0020] This allows for a simple and reliable design of the discharge element.

[0021] In another embodiment, the discharge element has a guide surface for guiding the container (e.g., from the rear) during discharge. Preferably, the guide surface can be concavely curved along one axis (e.g., with respect to a vertical axis), and more preferably cylindrical segment-shaped. Advantageously, this allows for the desired smooth transition to the discharge conveyor with gentle acceleration of the container.

[0022] In another embodiment, the container holder has a support surface for supporting the container at its base and / or a holding surface for holding a surface of the container, wherein the holding surface is preferably uniaxially concave (e.g., with respect to a vertical axis), preferably cylindrically segmented. Advantageously, the containers can thus be securely held and transported by the container holders during filling.

[0023] In one embodiment, at least one of the following is fulfilled: - the guide surface of the discharge element has a radius that is larger than a radius of the holding surface of the container holder, where optionally the radius of the guide surface is ≥ 2 * the radius of the holding surface, ≥ 2.5 * the radius of the holding surface or ≥ 3 * the radius of the holding surface; - the holding surface and the guide surface adjoin each other in an exit position of the exit element and / or transition smoothly into one another; and - the holding surface and the guide surface are spaced apart from each other in a stowed position of the discharge element.

[0024] Advantageously, this method allows for the desired smooth transition to the discharge conveyor with a particularly gentle acceleration of the container.

[0025] Another aspect concerns a container treatment system for treating containers, preferably cans. The container treatment system comprises a rotary filling device as disclosed herein. The container treatment system further comprises an infeed conveyor, preferably a star-shaped infeed conveyor. The infeed conveyor is arranged in a container infeed area of ​​the rotary filling device for transferring the containers to the rotary filling device. Alternatively or additionally, the container treatment system comprises an outfeed conveyor, preferably a linear outfeed conveyor with a circulating conveying element (e.g., a conveyor chain with carriers). The outfeed conveyor is arranged in a container outfeed area of ​​the rotary filling device for receiving the containers from the rotary filling device. Optionally, the container treatment system may also include a (e.g.,The container treatment system includes a rotary valve closure device, preferably arranged directly downstream of the discharge conveyor. Advantageously, the same benefits can be achieved with this container treatment system as those already described with reference to the rotary valve filling device.

[0026] For example, the container treatment plant can be designed for tempering, manufacturing, cleaning, coating, testing, filling, closing, pasteurizing, decorating, labeling, printing, marking, laser marking and / or packaging containers for liquid or pasty media, preferably beverages, liquid food products or products from the pharmaceutical or healthcare industry.

[0027] For example, the containers can be designed as bottles, cans, canisters, cartons, vials, tubes, etc.

[0028] Another aspect concerns a method for operating a rotary filling device as disclosed herein or a container treatment plant as disclosed herein. The method comprises at least one of: - Positioning the discharge elements in a stowed position in a container inlet area of ​​the rotary filling device (e.g. by means of a control device and / or by means of an actuator and / or by means of an elastic preload), preferably to prevent a collision with an inlet conveyor; and - Positioning the discharge elements in a discharge position in a container discharge area of ​​the rotary filling device (e.g. by means of a control device and / or by means of an actuator and / or by means of an elastic pretension) to discharge the containers to a discharge conveyor.

[0029] The same advantages can be achieved with this method as have already been explained with reference to the rotary filling device.

[0030] In one embodiment, positioning the discharge elements in the stowed position comprises: retracting and / or pivoting the discharge elements in the container inlet area, upstream of the container inlet area and / or downstream of the container outlet area. Alternatively or additionally, positioning the discharge elements in the discharge position comprises: extending and / or pivoting the discharge elements in the container outlet area, upstream of the container outlet area and / or downstream of the container inlet area.

[0031] In one embodiment, the discharge elements are in the stowed position throughout the entire container inlet area, and / or the discharge elements are in the discharge position throughout the entire container outlet area.

[0032] The previously described preferred embodiments and features of the invention can be combined with one another in any way. Brief description of the characters

[0033] Further details and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. These show: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of an exemplary container treatment plant; Fig. 2 a schematic top view of a container holder and a discharge element of a filling station of a filling device according to an embodiment, wherein the discharge element is in a discharge position; Fig. 3 a schematic top view of the container holder and the discharge element, wherein the discharge element is in a stowed position; Fig. 4 a schematic top view of a container outlet area of ​​the exemplary filling device; and Fig. 5 A schematic top view of a container inlet area of ​​the exemplary filling device.

[0034] The embodiments shown in the figures are at least partially identical, so that similar or identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals and, to avoid repetition, reference is also made to the description of the other embodiments or figures for their explanation. Detailed description of exemplary embodiments

[0035] The Fig. Figure 1 shows a container treatment plant 10 for treating containers B (only some in Fig. (1 shown). Preferably the containers B are designed as cans, or the container treatment plant 10 is a can treatment plant.

[0036] The container treatment plant 10 has a rotary filling device 14 (hereinafter referred to as filling device) with several filling stations 16. Fig. Figure 1 shows only some of the filling stations 16 in a purely schematic way. The container treatment plant 10 may also have, for example, an inlet conveyor 12, an outlet conveyor 18 and / or a closing device 32.

[0037] The infeed conveyor 12 can transport the containers B to the filling device 14. Preferably, the infeed conveyor 12 is designed as an infeed star wheel. However, it is also possible, for example, for the infeed conveyor 12 to be designed as a linear conveyor, e.g., with a circulating conveying element for conveying the containers B.

[0038] In detail, the inlet conveyor 12 can be connected to the filling device 14 in a container inlet area E of the filling device 14 for transferring the containers B to the filling device 14 or its filling stations 16.

[0039] The filling device 14, or the filling stations 16, can fill the containers B, preferably with a liquid or pasty medium. The material being filled can be, for example, carbonated or still. Several containers B can be filled simultaneously or overlapping in time using the filling stations 16.

[0040] The filling stations 16 can, for example, each have a filling valve for dispensing the filling material into a container B positioned below the respective filling valve.

[0041] It is possible that the containers B in the filling stations 16 can also be evacuated, pre-pressurized and / or flushed. Accordingly, the filling stations 16 can each have an evacuation channel, a pre-pressurization channel and / or one or more flushing channels, each with different pressures.

[0042] The filling stations 16 are arranged distributed around the circumference of the filling device 14. The filling stations 16 are rotatable about a principal axis H of the filling device 14. Preferably, the filling stations 16 can be arranged distributed around the circumference of a filling carousel of the filling device 14 that is rotatable about the principal axis H.

[0043] The filling stations 16 each have a container holder 34 and a discharge element 38, as further illustrated here by way of example with reference to the Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 is explained.

[0044] The discharge conveyor 18 can transport the containers B from the filling device 14, for example to the sealing device 32. The discharge conveyor 18 can connect the filling device 14 and the sealing device 32 to each other, preferably directly, for transporting containers B from the filling device 14 to the sealing device 32.

[0045] The discharge conveyor 18 can be connected to the filling device 14 for receiving containers B from the filling device 14, preferably directly. Specifically, the discharge conveyor 18 can be connected to the filling device 14 in a container discharge area A of the filling device 14 for receiving the containers B.

[0046] The discharge conveyor 18 can be connected to the sealing device 32 for transferring the received containers B to the sealing device 32, preferably directly. It is also possible that the discharge conveyor 18 does not transfer the containers B directly to the sealing device 32, but, for example, to an infeed star conveyor that is directly connected to the sealing device 32.

[0047] The discharge conveyor 18 can have lateral guide rails for guiding the transported containers B laterally.

[0048] Preferably, the discharge conveyor 18 has a circulating transport element 20 and several (e.g., can) carriers 28. The discharge conveyor 18 may also have, for example, a drive wheel 22, a drive unit 24, and / or a deflection wheel 26.

[0049] The transport element 20 can be a closed transport element or an endless transport element. The transport element 20 can, for example, rotate around the drive wheel 22 and the deflection wheel 26. Preferably, the transport element 20 is a transport chain. The transport element 20 can transport the containers B by means of the carriers 28.

[0050] The drive wheel 22 can be connected to the rotating transport element 20 in a driving manner. For example, the drive wheel 22 can be a drive pinion in engagement with the rotating transport element 20. Preferably, the drive wheel 22 can be a drive sprocket in engagement with the transport element 20, which is designed as a transport chain.

[0051] Preferably, the drive wheel 22 is arranged at one end of the discharge conveyor 18 associated with the closing device 32. Preferably, the containers B are transferred from the discharge conveyor 18 to the closing device 32 in the area of ​​the drive wheel 22 or directly adjacent to it. Alternatively, the drive wheel 22 can be arranged at another position on the discharge conveyor 18, e.g., at one end of the discharge conveyor 18 associated with the filling device 14.

[0052] The drive unit 24 can be connected to the drive wheel 22 in a driving manner. Preferably, the drive unit 24 can be designed as an electric motor. The drive unit 24 can, for example, be connected directly or via a gearbox to the drive wheel 22 for driving the drive wheel 22.

[0053] The deflection wheel 26 can be connected to the transport element 20 for deflecting the transport element 20. For example, the deflection wheel 26 can be a deflection pinion engaging with the rotating transport element 20. Preferably, the deflection wheel 26 can be a deflection sprocket (idle sprocket) engaging with the transport element 20, which is designed as a transport chain.

[0054] Preferably, the deflection wheel 26 is arranged at one end of the discharge conveyor 18 associated with the filling device 14. Preferably, the transfer of the containers B from the filling device 14 to the discharge conveyor 18 takes place in the area of ​​the deflection wheel 26 or directly adjacent to it. Alternatively, the deflection wheel 26 can be arranged at another position on the discharge conveyor 18, e.g., at one end of the discharge conveyor 18 associated with the closing device 32.

[0055] Preferably the drive wheel 22 and the deflection wheel 26 can be arranged at opposite ends of the discharge conveyor 18.

[0056] The carriers 28 can be attached to the transport element 20 for carrying the containers B, e.g., directly or indirectly. Preferably, the circumferential transport element 20 carries the carriers 28.

[0057] The carriers 28 can transport or carry the containers B. Preferably, each carrier 28 can transport (only) one of the containers B. The carriers 28 can support the containers B from behind for transport.

[0058] For example, each of the carriers 28 can have a recess (pocket) for a container B. The recess can, for example, be cylindrical segment-shaped. The recess can be arranged on a side of the respective carrier 28 facing in the transport direction T of the discharge conveyor 18.

[0059] Preferably, the drivers 28 can be arranged spaced apart from one another along the circumferential transport element 20. The drivers 28 can preferably be arranged equidistant from one another along the transport element 20. For example, the drivers 28 can be arranged laterally next to the circumferential transport element 20.

[0060] The distance between adjacent carriers 28 can also be referred to as a so-called division / machine division or a so-called division distance (for container transport). The division can, for example, be in a range between 70 mm and 110 mm.

[0061] For example, the carriers 28 can push the containers B over a stationary support surface 30, e.g. a table, of the discharge conveyor 18. The support surface 30 can preferably extend from the filling device 14 to the closing device 32.

[0062] Alternatively, the containers B can be supported at their base on a circumferential support element, such as a belt or mat chain, of the discharge conveyor 18, while the containers B are supported circumferentially (on the outer surface / rear) by the carriers 28. It is possible that the circumferential support element is connected to the transport element 20 for driving by means of the transport element 20.

[0063] Preferably, the drivers 28 can be positioned in the area of ​​the traction side (working side) of the transport element 20 above and vertically spaced from the support surface 30 or the circumferential support element of the discharge conveyor 18.

[0064] Preferably, the carriers 28 can be designed as cantilever arms or contact fingers. The cantilever arms / contact fingers can span the support surface 30 transversely to the transport direction T of the discharge conveyor 18.

[0065] The sealing device 32 can seal the containers B, e.g., with a lid, a cork, a crown cap, or a screw cap. The sealing device 32 is preferably designed as a rotary sealing device. The sealing device 32 can have several sealing stations for simultaneously or overlappingly sealing several containers B. For example, the sealing stations can be arranged distributed around the circumference of a sealing carousel of the rotary sealing device. The sealing device 32 can be arranged downstream of the filling device 14 with respect to a container flow.

[0066] The Fig. 2 and Fig. Figure 3 shows, by way of example, the container holder 34 and the discharge element 38 of a filling station 16.

[0067] The container holder 34 is designed to hold a container B. The container holder 34 can hold the container B during filling. Preferably, the container holder 34 can be designed as a receiving pocket for laterally supporting a surface of the container B, or may have such a pocket.

[0068] Preferably, the container holder 34 can have a holding surface 36 for holding a surface of the container B. Preferably, the shape of the holding surface 36 can be adapted to the shape of the container B. For example, the holding surface 36 and a section of the surface of the container B can be shaped to correspond to each other. A radius of the holding surface 36 can, for example, substantially correspond to a radius of the container B, e.g., approximately 33 mm. Preferably, the holding surface 36 is uniaxially concave, e.g., about a vertical axis. For example, the holding surface 36 can be cylindrical segment-shaped.

[0069] Alternatively or in addition to the holding surface 36, the container holder 34 can, for example, have a support surface for supporting the container B from below.

[0070] The discharge element 38 is designed to guide the container B as it is discharged from the container holder 34 and transferred to the discharge conveyor 18. Preferably, the discharge element 38 can support the container B from the rear during this process. The discharge element 38 is preferably designed as a retaining finger. One free end of the discharge element 38 may be chamfered.

[0071] Preferably, the discharge element 38 can have a guide surface 40 for guiding the container B during discharge. Preferably, the shape of the guide surface 40 can be adapted to a desired container movement characteristic during discharge. For example, this can be used to increase the speed of the container B during discharge in order to achieve a smooth transition to a higher conveying speed of the discharge conveyor 18. For this purpose, the guide surface 40 can, for example, be curved in a direction of rotation of the filling device 14 about the main axis H.

[0072] Preferably, the guide surface 40 is concavely curved in one direction, e.g., about a vertical axis. For example, the guide surface 40 can be cylindrical segment-shaped. Preferably, the guide surface 40 can have a radius that is larger than the radius of the holding surface 36 of the container holder 34. For example, the radius of the guide surface 40 can be at least 2, at least 2.5, or at least 3 times larger than the radius of the holding surface 36. The radius of the guide surface 40 can be, for example, approximately 100 mm.

[0073] It is possible that the discharge element 38 and the container holder 34 are functionally partially integrated. The discharge element 38 can, for example, also contribute to holding the containers B during transport. The container holder 34 can, for example, also contribute to the discharge function of the containers B during discharge.

[0074] The discharge element 38 is movable relative to the container holder 34. Preferably, the discharge element 38 can be pivotable and / or displaceable (translationally movable) relative to the container holder 34. Particularly preferably, the discharge element 38 is movably connected to the container holder 34, e.g., pivotably and / or displaceably.

[0075] Specifically, the filling stations 16 can each have a movement device (e.g., a swivel and / or sliding device) 42. The movement device 42 can move the discharge element 38 of the respective filling station 16 relative to the container holder 34 of the respective filling station 16.

[0076] For example, the motion device 42 can have a pivot axis, preferably vertical, by means of which the discharge element 38 can be pivoted, and / or a longitudinal guide by means of which the discharge element 38 can be displaced. Preferably, the pivot axis can be vertically oriented. Preferably, the longitudinal guide can be horizontally oriented and preferably allow displacement radial to the main axis H.

[0077] For example, the motion device 42 can connect the discharge element 38 and the container holder 34. The container holder 34 can, for example, support the discharge element 38 via the motion device 42 or simply couple them.

[0078] However, it is also possible that the movement device 42 is at least not directly connected to the container holder 34 (not in the Fig. 2 and Fig. (Figure 3). For example, the motion device 42 can carry the discharge element 38 on a support of the filling device 14 and movably couple it to the support. The support, in turn, can be rotatable about the main axis H together with the filling stations 16. Preferably, the container holder 34 can also be connected to the support, e.g., supported by the support.

[0079] Preferably, the discharge element 38 can be movable relative to the container holder 34 such that the discharge element 38 can be positioned between a discharge position, as exemplified in Fig. 2 shown, and a storage position, as exemplified in Fig. 3 shown, is movable.

[0080] In the discharge position, the discharge element 38 can perform the function of diverting container B. In the stowed position, the radial projection (relative to the main axis H) of the discharge element 38 beyond the container holder 34 can be reduced compared to the discharge position. In the stowed position, the discharge element 38 cannot perform the function of diverting container B.

[0081] For example, in the discharge position, the discharge element 38 can be swung out and / or extended by means of the movement device 42. In the stowed position, the discharge element 38 can, for example, be swung in and / or retracted by means of the movement device 42.

[0082] As exemplified in the Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the discharge element 38, preferably its guide surface 40, can extend the container holder 34, preferably its retaining surface 36, outwards in a radial direction with respect to the main axis H in the discharge position. Preferably, the retaining surface 36 and the guide surface 40 can adjoin each other and / or merge smoothly into one another in the discharge position.

[0083] As exemplified in the Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the discharge element 38, preferably its guide surface 40, can be positioned at a distance from the container holder 34, preferably its retaining surface 36, in the stowed position. Preferably, the retaining surface 36 and the guide surface 40 do not adjoin each other in the stowed position and do not merge smoothly into one another.

[0084] It is possible that the discharge elements 38 are elastically pre-tensioned, e.g., in the discharge position or in the stowed position. For example, the discharge elements 38 can each be elastically pre-tensioned by an elastic element, e.g., a spring, preferably a helical spring or spiral spring. For example, the elastic element can be arranged in or on the motion device 42.

[0085] To effect movement of the discharge element 38, a control device 44 and / or an actuator 46 can be included, for example (shown schematically only in the Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 shown).

[0086] For example, the control unit 44 can operate the discharge element 38 to move into the discharge position such that the discharge element 38 is in the discharge position in the container discharge area A of the filling device 14 and / or that the discharge element 38 is operated to move into the stowage position such that the discharge element 38 is in the stowage position in the container inlet area E of the filling device 14. For example, the control unit 44 can act on the motion device 42 and / or an actuator 46 to move the discharge element 38.

[0087] For example, the control device 44 can be designed as a mechanical control device. The mechanical control device can operate the discharge element 38 purely mechanically to assume the stowed position and / or the discharge position.

[0088] Preferably, the mechanical control device can have a (mechanical) control cam or a control cam. The control cam or the control cam is preferably stationary. The control cam can, for example, be a control cam that completely or at least partially circumferentially surrounds the filling device 14. The control cam can, for example, be arranged in the container inlet area E or in the container outlet area A. The mechanical control device can furthermore have a control element for each discharge element 38 for following the control cam or the control cam. The control element can, for example, be a control roller. The control element can be operatively connected to the discharge element 38 of the respective filling station 16, e.g., via the motion device 42, to transmit a path of the control cam or the control cam into a movement of the discharge element 38, e.g., to assume the discharge position and / or the storage position.The mechanical control device can be used to move the discharge element 38 into the stowed position and / or the discharge position.

[0089] Alternatively, the actuator 46 can be included, for example. Each filling station 16 can, for instance, have an actuator 46 for moving the respective discharge element 38. The actuator 46 can, for example, be operated by the control unit 44. The actuator 46 can be operatively connected to the discharge element 38 relative to the container holder 34, for example, via the motion device 42, to move the discharge element 38. The actuator 46 can, for example, be an electric, electromagnetic, pneumatic, or hydraulic actuator. By means of the actuator 46, the discharge element 38 can be moved into the stowed position and / or the discharge position.

[0090] It is possible that the control device 44, the mechanical control device and / or the actuator 46 is supported by the aforementioned elastic preload of the discharge element 38 in the discharge position or the stowed position.

[0091] It is also possible that the control device 44, the mechanical control device and / or the actuator 46 operates the discharge element 38 only to move it into one position from the discharge position and the stowage position against the elastic preload of the discharge element 38, and that the discharge element 38 assumes the other position from the discharge position and the stowage position only or essentially only under the influence of the elastic preload.

[0092] The Fig. 4 and Fig. Figure 5 shows how the described mobility of the discharge elements 38 can be used advantageously, especially preferably in combination.

[0093] The Fig. Figure 4 schematically shows the discharge area A. Due to the discharge elements 38 positioned in the discharge position, the containers B can be moved and, if necessary, accelerated towards the discharge conveyor 18 for a comparatively long time and thus particularly gently.

[0094] In general terms, the filling device 14 can thus be operated such that the discharge elements 38 can be positioned in the discharge position in the container discharge area A of the filling device 14 to discharge the containers B to a discharge conveyor 18. For example, the discharge elements 38 can be extended and / or swung out for this purpose in the container discharge area A, upstream of the container discharge area A and / or downstream of the container inlet area A.

[0095] The Fig. Figure 5 schematically shows the container inlet area E. The discharge elements 38 are shown in the discharge position with a dashed line. It can be seen that there would be a collision potential with the inlet conveyor 12 if the discharge elements 38 were positioned in the discharge position. Accordingly, the discharge elements 38 can preferably be in the stowed position (see Figure 5). Fig. 3; not in Fig. 5 shown), when they pass the container inlet area E.

[0096] In general terms, the filling device 14 can thus be operated in such a way that the discharge elements 38 can be positioned in a stowed position in the container inlet area E of the filling device 14, preferably to prevent a collision with the inlet conveyor 12. For example, the discharge elements 38 can be inserted and / or pivoted into the container inlet area E, upstream of the container inlet area E and / or downstream of the container outlet area A.

[0097] 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 the features of the dependent claims independently of the referenced claims. In particular, the individual features of independent claim 1 are each disclosed independently of one another. In addition, the features of the dependent claims 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 filling stations, the container holder, and / or the discharge element of independent claim 1.All range specifications herein are to be understood as disclosed in such a way as to disclose all values ​​falling within the respective range individually, e.g. also as preferred narrower outer limits of the respective range. Reference symbol list 10 container treatment plant 12 inlet conveyors 14 Filling device 16 filling stations 18 discharge conveyors 20 transport element 22 Drive wheel 24 Drive unit 26 Deflection wheel 28 drivers 30 support surface 32 Locking device 34 container holders 36 holding surface 38 discharge element 40 guide surface 42 Motion device (e.g. swivel and / or sliding device) 44 Control unit 46 Actuator A container outlet area B Container E Container inlet area H Main axis T Transport direction QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

[0000] DE 10 2020 116 779 A1

[0004]

Claims

[1] Rotary filling device (14) for filling containers (B), preferably cans, with a filling material, wherein the rotary filling device (14) comprises: several filling stations (16) which are arranged distributed around a circumference of the rotary filling device (14) and are rotatable about a main axis (H) of the rotary filling device (14), wherein the several filling stations (16) each have: - a container holder (34) for holding a container (B); and - a discharge element (38) for guiding the container (B), preferably from the rear, when the container (B) is discharged from the container holder (34), wherein the discharge element (38) is movable relative to the container holder (34), preferably pivotable and / or displaceable. [2] Rotary filling device (14) according to claim 1, wherein: the discharge element (38) is movable between a discharge position for diverting the container (B) and a stowage position in which preferably a radial projection of the discharge element (38) beyond the container holder (34) is reduced compared to the discharge position. [3] Rotary filling device (14) according to claim 2, wherein at least one of the following is fulfilled: the discharge element (38) is swung into the stowed position and / or retracted; the discharge element (38) is swung out and / or extended in the discharge position; The discharge element (38) is elastically prestressed to assume the stowed position or the discharge position. [4] Rotary filling device (14) according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein: the discharge element (38) extends the container holder (34) outwards in a radial direction with respect to the main axis (H) in the discharge position; and optionally the container holder (34) is designed as a receiving pocket for laterally supporting a surface of the container (B) or has a receiving pocket for laterally supporting a surface of the container (B). [5] Rotary filling device (14) according to one of claims 2 to 4, further comprising: a control unit (44) that is configured to: - to operate the discharge elements (38) in such a way as to move them into the discharge position, so that the discharge elements (38) are in the discharge position in a container discharge area (A) of the rotary filling device (14); and / or - to operate the discharge elements (38) in such a way as to move them into the stowed position, so that the discharge elements (38) are in the stowed position in a container inlet area (E) of the rotary filling device (14). [6] Rotary filling device (14) according to claim 5, wherein: the control device (44) is a mechanical control device, preferably with: - a control cam or control cam, and - several control elements, preferably control rollers, for following the control cam or the control cam, wherein the control elements are each in operative connection with the respective exit element (38) for moving one of the exit elements (38). [7] Rotary filling device (14) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the multiple filling stations (16) each further comprise: an actuator (46), preferably electrical, electromagnetic, pneumatic or hydraulic, which is in operative connection with the discharge element (38) for moving the discharge element (38) relative to the container holder (34). [8] Rotary filling device (14) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of: the discharge element (38) is designed as a retaining finger; the discharge element (38) is arranged to support the container (B) from the rear; a free end of the discharge element (38) is chamfered; and The discharge element (38) is movably connected to the container holder (34). [9] Rotary filling device (14) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the discharge element (38) has a guide surface (40) for guiding the container (B) during discharge, the guide surface (40) is uniaxially concave curved, preferably cylindrical segment-shaped. [10] Rotary filling device (14) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: The container holder (34) has a support surface for supporting the container (B) from the bottom and / or a holding surface (36) for holding a shell surface of the container (B), wherein the holding surface (36) is preferably uniaxially concave curved, preferably cylindrical shell segment-shaped. [11] Rotary filling device (14) according to claim 9 and claim 10, wherein at least one of: The guide surface (40) of the discharge element (38) has a radius that is larger than a radius of the holding surface (36) of the container holder (34), optionally the radius of the guide surface (40) is ≥ 2 * the radius of the holding surface (36), ≥ 2.5 * the radius of the holding surface (36) or ≥ 3 * the radius of the holding surface (36); The holding surface (36) and the guide surface (40) adjoin each other in a discharge position of the discharge element (38) and / or transition smoothly into one another; and The holding surface (36) and the guide surface (40) are spaced apart from each other in a stowed position of the discharge element (38). [12] Container treatment plant (10) for treating containers (B), preferably cans, comprising: a rotary filling device (14) according to one of the preceding claims; an inlet conveyor (12), preferably an inlet star, wherein the inlet conveyor (12) is arranged in a container inlet area (E) of the rotary filling device (14) for transferring the containers (B) to the rotary filling device (14); a discharge conveyor (18), preferably a linear discharge conveyor with a circulating conveying element, wherein the discharge conveyor (18) is arranged in a container discharge area (A) of the rotary filling device (14) for receiving the containers (B) from the rotary filling device (14); and optionally a closing device (32) which is arranged, preferably directly, downstream of the discharge conveyor (18). [13] Method for operating a rotary filling device (14) according to any one of claims 1 to 11 or a container treatment plant (10) according to claim 12, wherein the method comprises at least one of: Positioning the discharge elements (38) in a stowed position in a container inlet area (E) of the rotary filling device (14), preferably to prevent a collision with an inlet conveyor; and Positioning the discharge elements (38) in a discharge position in a container discharge area (A) of the rotary filling device (14) for the discharge of the containers (B) to a discharge conveyor. [14] Method according to claim 13, wherein at least one of the following is satisfied: The positioning of the discharge elements (38) in the stowed position involves: retracting and / or pivoting the discharge elements (38) into the container inlet area (E), in front of the container inlet area (E) and / or after the container outlet area (A); and The positioning of the discharge elements (38) in the discharge position involves: extending and / or pivoting the discharge elements (38) in the container discharge area (A), in front of the container discharge area (A) and / or after the container inlet area (E). [15] Method according to claim 13 or claim 14, wherein at least one of: The discharge elements (38) are in the stowed position throughout the entire container inlet area (E); and The discharge elements (38) are in the discharge position throughout the entire container outlet area (A).

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