PLANT AND METHOD FOR OPERATING A PLANT FOR THE TREATMENT OF CONTAINERS

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a plant and a method for operating a plant for treating containers, as well as a system for treating containers. Plants for treating containers and methods for operating them have been known in the art for some time. The present invention relates to containers, and in particular plastic containers. These containers can be from the beverage, food, and / or cosmetics industries. For example, they can be bottles, such as glass and plastic bottles. Reusable containers are particularly preferred, which, for example, are returned to the product cycle after use by a consumer and are cleaned and / or recycled for this purpose.

[0002] The present invention relates in particular to container serialization, such as bottle serialization. In bottle serialization, the individual bottles are marked – in particular uniquely – for example by applying a unique identifier, and are thus individually distinguishable from one another, (each) in pairs.

[0003] In the field of bottle serialization, there are various approaches in the state of the art; for example, unique IDs (identifiers) can be applied via the label.

[0004] However, this form of serialization is not suitable for all intended use cases. For some of these use cases, the timing of the ID application would be too late, since, for example, plastic containers are usually labeled only after the filling process and definitely only after the heating and blow molding process.

[0005] The systems and operating procedures currently known from the state of the art have, among other disadvantages, that existing container serialization solutions intervene too late in the process chain and therefore cannot be integrated into the intended applications. Furthermore, a disadvantage arises that measured values ​​collected at an early stage of bottle production cannot be individually assigned to each bottle. For example, the preforms (plastic pre-forms) are usually not yet uniquely marked.

[0006] US patent 2019 / 234975 A1 discloses a system for performing molecular analysis that uses a tray with multiple wells for holding reagents, each equipped with an RFID tag. This RFID tag allows information to be sent and received, for example, for a molecular analysis workflow. The information could indicate, for instance, that it is time to order specific reagents to be added to the tray, or it could be the product code of the reagent to be ordered.

[0007] From DE 10 2018 127264 A1 a monitoring method for monitoring a film bubble in an exit area after an exit nozzle of a blown film device is known.

[0008] From EP 2 295 226 A1 of the applicant, a container treatment system for treating containers fillable with a product is known, comprising a plurality of treatment elements. Each treatment element is assigned a container setpoint, which indicates what type of container the treatment element can treat.

[0009] The present invention is based on the objective of overcoming the disadvantages known from the prior art and providing a system for treating containers and a method for operating the system in which as much information and measurement data as possible, as well as process and product data, are accessible at as many process stages as possible.

[0010] The object of the invention is achieved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0011] In a method according to the invention for operating a system for treating a plurality of containers, in particular bottles, preferably plastic containers, at least one container (and preferably a plurality of containers) is provided, each of which (preferably each) has an identification means, in particular a machine-readable one, by means of which the container can be uniquely identified. The container is preferably a beverage container or a container from the food or cosmetics industry. It can be a plastic preform or a finished container such as a bottle. In particular, the method relates to treating containers in a way that enables the traceability and / or tracking of the treatment.

[0012] In this process, an identifier – in particular a unique identifier – is assignable (and / or assigned) to the (respective) means of identification, which is stored and / or can be stored in a storage device, in particular a cloud-based storage device. Preferably, the storage device is connected or connectable to the system for data communication, at least temporarily, via a public network – such as the Internet.

[0013] Furthermore, the container (preferably the multitude of containers) is treated with at least one treatment device of the system. It is conceivable that the system has only one treatment device. However, the system preferably has at least two, and particularly preferably a multitude of (different) treatment devices. Preferably, the multitude of containers (especially sequentially and / or individually) – preferably arranged in a container stream – passes through all of these treatment devices and is treated by them.

[0014] Preferably, the container is transported at least temporarily within the (preferably entire) treatment device (preferably at least partially within the and particularly preferably within the entire system) by at least one transport device along a predetermined transport path in one transport direction. Preferably, the transport device transports the container (in each case) during its treatment and / or during the container's loading and / or unloading into or from the treatment device.

[0015] Furthermore, at least one data value relating to the container (preferably in each case relating to the respective container of the plurality of containers) and / or relating to at least one treatment step of the (in particular each) container (in particular carried out by the treatment device) is collected (especially in the treatment device) - preferably for each container.

[0016] Furthermore, at least one data value is provided (in particular for each container) for transmission and / or storage in the storage device - in particular by the treatment device.

[0017] Preferably, an association is established (in particular in each case) between the data value (or, in particular, characteristic data) and the respective identifier of the container. This association is preferably stored (in particular, permanently) in the storage device and can therefore be retrieved from the storage device at any later time.

[0018] The term "data communication connection" (i.e., connection for data communication) between the storage device and the plant, and in particular the processing device, via a public network means, in particular, that the data communication takes place—at least temporarily—at least partially (preferably completely) via the public network (such as the Internet). Specifically, the storage device (at least partially and preferably the entire storage device) is connected, at least temporarily and / or at least partially, to the plant (and in particular the processing device) via communication links or lines that are at least partially wireless and / or at least partially wired (preferably completely wired).

[0019] Preferably, the storage device is at least partially, and preferably the entire storage device, not exclusively connected to the system and, in particular, to the treatment device via a private network, such as an internal company network. In other words, the storage device cannot be accessed solely via the private network or the internal company network (in which the system is integrated). Preferably, a data communication link between the system and the storage device always includes a communication segment, which, in particular, must take place exclusively via a public network (such as the Internet).

[0020] It is also possible that the entire storage system is integrated into a company's internal (communication) network. In this case, it is preferable to allow access to at least some of the stored data via a public network.

[0021] The term "container treatment" refers in particular to the manufacture, further processing, and / or further processing of the container. Container manufacturing can, for example, involve blow molding a plastic preform into a (finished) plastic container such as a plastic bottle, or injection molding a plastic preform. Further processing of the container can include, for example, sealing, cleaning, sterilizing, inspecting, and especially transport, labeling, filling with a product such as a beverage, printing, and / or packaging. Further processing of the container refers in particular to the handling of the container after its delivery to a (transactional) retailer, such as transport to the retailer, sale to the end customer, recycling, or cleaning of the (already used) container.

[0022] The treatment step may be a treatment step performed (by the treatment device) and / or a treatment step to be performed.

[0023] In other words, the present invention proposes to store data values ​​obtained during the treatment of containers to be treated, which (in particular permanently) have an identification means – in particular a unique one – and are thus in an individualized state, in a storage device in which information or value characteristic of the identification means and / or in particular uniquely assignable (namely the identifier) ​​is or will be stored.

[0024] Preferably, at least one cloud (as a storage facility) or at least one cloud-based storage facility is provided in which at least one identifier and preferably a multitude of identifiers of the individual (preferably all) containers, as well as the respective (preferably for all treated containers) collected data value and especially preferably all data values ​​which are collected for the container and especially preferably which are collected for all containers are stored.

[0025] It is therefore specifically proposed to provide, supplement, and / or update (at least) one database (stored on the storage device) containing a multitude of identifiers (or characteristic data thereof), each of which is preferably uniquely assignable to an already individualized and / or yet-to-be-individualized container. Furthermore, the database preferably contains a multitude of data values ​​collected by at least one treatment device, and preferably by a multitude of treatment devices, each of which is (exactly) assignable to one container, and particularly preferably to an identification means and / or identifier.Preferably, the database is set up in such a way that it is possible and retrievable to assign (in particular certain and preferably all) data values ​​collected for a given container to the corresponding identifier, which is also stored in the database.

[0026] The term "data acquisition" refers specifically to the recording of a measured value, such as that taken by a measuring device like a sensor (e.g., on the container), but also to the recording and / or acquisition of a process variable or process parameter (e.g., stored in a memory device, such as the treatment device), based on which the treatment device performs a treatment (on the container to be treated). A data value can also be a type of treatment, such as a product to be filled, or a characteristic value for the type of treatment device and / or treatment components. Furthermore, the data value can also include environmental parameters such as temperature, pressure, time, and location in relation to the treatment device and / or the treatment of the container.

[0027] The present invention offers the advantage that collected measured values ​​can be individually assigned to each bottle. In particular, all data values ​​collected by a treatment device, and especially by all treatment devices, relating to a container or its treatment can be specifically assigned to each container, and the measured values ​​(as well as the assignment) can be retrieved at a later time. Advantageously, each machine in a line or each treatment device in a system should be able to accumulate data or data values ​​for an identification means and / or an identifier (and thus for a container or bottle).

[0028] Serializing individual containers, and especially bottles, within a production line, and the resulting absolute traceability, opens up a wide range of applications. For example, each container, and especially each bottle, can use its serialization code or identification mark to communicate its identity to a scanning device (such as checkmats), inspectors, or other reading units. This effectively integrates some of the intelligence of the machine control system into the containers, and particularly the bottles. This allows, for instance, the (unique) identification of the container to enable the processing equipment to retrieve or provide treatment parameters.

[0029] Furthermore, the container, equipped with an identification means, can itself be used to control the system, and in particular the processing device, and especially preferably a plurality of processing devices. Accordingly, the "bottle controls machine" principle can be implemented, and different bottle types, product types, and combinations thereof can be (knowingly) distinguished in the production line. Preferably, at least one data value stored on the memory device, and preferably a plurality of data values ​​relating to an identifier, and preferably to a plurality of identifiers, can be used for intelligent machine control. In this context, reference is made to German patent application DE 10 2017 120 201 A1, the entire disclosure of which relating to a self-learning machine, and in particular a blow molding machine, is deemed to be disclosed in this description.

[0030] For example, a plant may have a line in which several different types of products can be manufactured simultaneously, since, by means of the unique coding (especially based on the identification means) of the container and especially the bottle and the information stored (preferably on the storage device) for this or that (in the database), it can be communicated to the respective processing device or machine, for example a filler, that in the next cycle the container "XY" is in the feed and therefore the product "AB" must be introduced into a specified filling valve (filling valve "XX").

[0031] In a preferred method, an identifier generation unit of the system provides the identifier—in particular, a unique identifier—and preferably a plurality of identifiers suitable and intended for the unique identification of a container. The identifier can be, for example, a numerical value or a combination of characters. Preferably, the identifier generation unit includes a processor that generates a plurality of identifiers, particularly according to a predefined method. The identifier generation unit can also include a comparison unit that compares a generated identifier with a plurality of existing identifiers and / or identifiers stored in an ID pool and / or retrievable identifiers, and checks whether this generated identifier has already been used and / or previously generated.

[0032] The identifier generation device is preferably a script or a standalone program installed directly on a personalization device suitable and designed to mark a container with an identifier, such as an ID printing device. However, it is also conceivable that an external system is present on which such a script runs. Preferably, a single identifier, and preferably a multitude of identifiers, can be retrieved from the system, and in particular from the personalization device, for example, also within the framework of a SaaS ("Software as a Service") application. Preferably, a (communication) connection exists, at least temporarily, between the personalization device (as hardware) and the identifier generation device (the ID generator), which can be implemented, in particular, as software or as a software service.

[0033] In principle, only one identifier generation unit is required per system, and for the multitude of container devices that handle a given container (both inside and especially outside a system), only one identifier generation unit is needed. However, it is possible that several (coordinated) identifier generation units are present, which, in total, also generate different identifiers in pairs.

[0034] As described, it is possible that the IDs are generated by an ID generator (the identifier generation device), initiated, for example, by a request for a new ID. However, it is also possible that the IDs are not generated but retrieved from an ID pool. In both cases, the ID generator or identifier generation device is responsible for providing unique identifiers (IDs).

[0035] Preferably, the identifier generation device can retrieve an identifier—especially a unique one—from an ID pool (which may also be stored on a cloud-based storage device), and particularly preferably a multitude of identifiers, and provide and / or transmit them to an individualization device that equips a container with an identification means uniquely attributable to the identifier. The ID pool preferably provides the identifier generation device with a collection (pool) of identifiers (IDs). Preferably, the IDs are subject to an algorithm and / or rules, such that, for example, the production date can be deduced from the ID or identifier by encoding. Preferably, each ID is unique.

[0036] Preferably, especially for the individualization of a container, (in particular) each identifier is assigned an identification means which is suitable and intended to individually and / or uniquely identify a container provided and / or marked with the identification means.

[0037] It is conceivable that a unique assignment is possible between each container bearing an identification means and (exactly) one identifier (generated and / or present in the ID pool and / or stored in the storage device). However, it is also conceivable that only a unique assignment of a container bearing an identification means to one identifier (generated and / or present in the ID pool and / or stored in the storage device) is possible. This means that, for example, several identifiers (including unused ones) could be present in the ID pool or stored in the (especially cloud-based) storage device.

[0038] The identification means can be, for example, a 2D barcode, barcode, matrix codes (QR code, Data Matrix, MaxiCode, Aztec code, JAB code, Han Xin code, etc.), an inductively powered wireless communication device, which, preferably with inductive power supply, is suitable and intended for the wireless transmission of data, in particular an RFID communication device (Radio-frequency identification) or RFID transponder, and the like. The identification means can be machine-readable by optical, electronic, magnetic, and / or haptic or tactile means using a reading device. Operating frequencies of 13.56 MHz (HF) or 860–960 MHz (UHF) as well as 125 kHz (LF) are known for wireless data transmission.

[0039] Identification means that are fast and, in particular, readable within 80 ms have proven to be especially suitable. Preferably, the identification means, like the RFID communication device, has a memory size of at least 50 bytes, preferably at least 100 bytes, and most preferably 144 bytes. More preferably, the identification means has a memory size of a maximum of 250 bytes, more preferably a maximum of 144 bytes. Preferably, the identification means has a geometric dimension of at least 1 mm, more preferably at least 5 mm, and most preferably at least 10 mm in one direction and / or a geometric dimension of at least 1 mm, more preferably at least 5 mm, and most preferably at least 10 mm in a direction perpendicular to this.

[0040] Preferably, the identification means has a geometric dimension of at most 50 mm, preferably at least 10 mm and particularly preferably at least 5 mm in one direction and / or a geometric dimension of at least 50 mm, preferably at least 10 mm and particularly preferably at least 5 mm in a direction perpendicular thereto.

[0041] Preferably, matrix codes have a code size of more than 22 x 22 dots. Preferably, the identification means, and in particular the container containing the identification means, is suitable and designed so that the identification means remains permanently in or on the container, thereby ensuring that the container remains permanently in this individualized state after its individualization. In particular, after the initial individualization, the container contains the identification means in all (subsequent) processing devices in which it is processed (especially before its packaging and / or delivery to the customer). Most preferably, the container also contains the identification means after the sale to the end consumer. Preferably, the identification means is permanently (not removable without damage) attached to or incorporated into the container.This allows the container to be recorded and identified at a point of sale and / or recycling point.

[0042] Preferably, the system, and in particular a manufacturing device suitable and intended for producing a container and / or plastic preform, includes an individualization device that provides the container with the identification means (for its – in particular, unambiguous – individualization) or is suitable and intended for this purpose. The manufacturing device may be, for example, a blow molding device and / or an injection molding device and / or a device for producing glass containers. Preferably, the identification means is arranged and / or attached and / or introduced onto the container (by the individualization device).

[0043] It is possible that the individualization device is arranged in the (treatment) line of the multitude of containers, preferably at the transport device of the treatment unit, and is preferably integrated into the (treatment) line and / or the system. The individualization device can, for example, be arranged between two treatment units of the system, wherein a container to be individualized is transported from a transport device of the first treatment unit to the individualization device and from there transferred by the same or a subsequent transport device to a second treatment unit. Preferably, all containers transported to the individualization device are also transported to and / or transferred to the second treatment unit.Preferably, only containers from the first treatment device are transported and / or transferred to the individualization facility (essentially).

[0044] The individualization unit does not necessarily have to be located within the production line. For example, it is conceivable that one individualization unit could be assigned to several different lines and / or at least two different systems for processing a different variety of containers. This offers the advantage that individualization can apply to both single-use and reusable PET containers, as well as glass containers, cans, and the like, or that (only) one individualization unit can be used for containers of different types that are processed in different systems.Preferably, the individualization device is integrated into at least one and preferably at least two (different) systems in such a way that it transports and / or transfers containers to be individualized from at least two different treatment devices (which are preferably part of two different systems) (in particular via two transport devices that are at least partially and preferably completely different from each other) and / or individualized containers to at least two different treatment devices (which are preferably part of two different systems) (in particular via two transport devices that are at least partially and preferably completely different from each other).

[0045] Preferably, the individualization device includes a printing device and in particular a direct printing device (a so-called "ID printer") which is preferably suitable and intended to process and in particular print on a container wall and / or the plastic preform directly and / or immediately.

[0046] Preferably, the individualization device includes a laser, in particular a CO2 laser, by means of which an identification means (such as a QR code) can be applied to a container (such as a plastic preform).

[0047] Preferably, the individualization device includes an inkjet printer, such as an inkjet printer, by means of which an identification means (such as a (QR) code) can be applied to a container (such as a plastic preform).

[0048] It is also conceivable that the personalization device includes a printing device for applying ink, particularly ink that only fluoresces under UV light. This offers the advantage that the choice of such an identification method does not affect the external appearance of the container as perceived by a consumer.

[0049] The individualization is preferably applied in the unstretched area of ​​the preform, particularly preferably in the area up to 10 mm below the preform support ring.

[0050] Furthermore, the individualization device may also include tools that treat the surface of the container to be manufactured during and / or immediately after an injection molding process and / or introduce an individualization means (e.g. a transponder) into a container, such as a wall of the container to be manufactured, in particular in such a way that the individualization means is surrounded by - in particular the same - material, especially on all sides.

[0051] In a further preferred method, the containers are provided with the identification mark during their manufacture and / or before and / or during a forming process from a plastic preform to the plastic container. Preferably, the plastic preforms are provided with the identification mark before being heated (in a heating device or in an oven). This offers the advantage that serialization can be used in as many or all process steps as possible, provided the plastic preform already has a unique identifier before being heated in the oven. In particular, it is preferably (essentially) necessary for this to already have the information applied to the preform (in contrast to the prior art).

[0052] It is therefore proposed to use the marking or individualization (via identification means) of plastic preforms at a very early stage of the process in order to control parameters in the system and especially in the treatment device or in a multitude of treatment devices, depending on the information associated with the (assigned) identifier (or, for example, stored in the storage device and linked to the identifier), and / or to individually assign collected measured values ​​or data values ​​to each container.

[0053] A plastic preform typically has a fully formed area, for example, a mouth area with a pre-formed thread or a support ring, and at least one area to be stretched (such as a base body of the plastic preform). The area to be stretched is typically expanded, particularly longitudinally, by applying a pressurized fluid medium in a (stretch) blow molding process and preferably stretched against a blow molding device that forms a cavity.

[0054] Preferably, a plastic preform (from the individualization device) is provided with an identification means, particularly on a section of the preform that is to be stretched. Therefore, the plastic preform is preferably not provided with an identification means at an opening or on a support ring (although this is also possible), but rather on the area of ​​the base body, especially on a side wall of the base body. Preferably, the identification means used is one that is also expanded during a forming process of the plastic preform into the plastic container. Preferably, the identification means is suitable and designed to be in a machine-readable state, even with respect to its spatial extent in at least one dimension, and preferably in at least two dimensions.

[0055] A QR code is preferably used as an identification means (which is either embossed into the wall of the plastic preform or preferably printed on it to avoid any influence on the container's stability due to areas of varying wall thickness). A so-called "inflatable QR code" offers the advantage that it can be used not only (similarly to applying a grid) for identifying stretch levels in the blow molding machine or a (stretching) blow molding device, but also provides a way to individualize the containers at a very early stage of the process, namely during the production of the plastic preforms.

[0056] Preferably, the system includes a heating device for plastic preforms to heat them before the plastic preforms are expanded into a plastic container in a blow molding machine (or a (stretching) blow molding device).

[0057] Preferably, the treatment device, in particular the heating device, includes a detection device which is suitable and intended for detecting the identification element of the plastic preform. Preferably, at least one value, in particular a process parameter, is derived from the detected identification element for controlling at least one treatment device, in particular the heating device.

[0058] This offers the advantage of using serialized containers during preform heating, particularly with heating devices designed and intended to heat each container individually, and especially two consecutive containers in different ways (e.g., so-called "Flexwave" heating devices). This allows the identification elements to be detected and / or read before entering the heating device (or oven), and the heating pattern required for the respective plastic preform can be stored, for example, in the machine control system. This advantageously enables a wide variety of container sizes (preform sizes) to be processed and handled in a single line within one heating device (or oven).This advantageously allows the subsequent blow molding process (of plastic preforms into plastic containers) to be adapted so that different container shapes and / or sizes can be produced simultaneously. Such a control system can, for example, include a parallel connection of two or more blow molding modules or devices for forming plastic preforms into plastic containers, or a blow molding machine or device with different cavities (or blow molding units).

[0059] In a further preferred method, the identification means is detected at least once and preferably several times, preferably by a detection device, particularly before the container is removed from the processing unit. Preferably, the identification means is detected at least once and especially preferably several times in each processing unit of the system. For example, the identification means can be detected (in each case) to acquire a data value (and made available together with the data value for transmission to the storage device). Detecting the identification means of (each) container at least once offers the advantage that the current location of the container is known.

[0060] Preferably, the identification means is detected by a detection device immediately after the manufacture of the container and / or after the manufacture of a plastic preform, particularly preferably upstream of the heating device for plastic preforms. Preferably, at least one detection device for detecting the identification means is arranged between each of two different treatment devices (which are particularly arranged in their own housings). Preferably, the identification means of the container is detected before it leaves the respective treatment device and, in particular, transmitted (together with at least one data value) to the at least one storage device.

[0061] Preferably, a control device that monitors the treatment performed on the container, for example an inspection device, includes a recording device which, together with the measurement data, also records the identification means of the container.

[0062] In a further preferred method, the data value is selected from a group containing various types of data values, such as information or (characteristic) data relating to the container, a measured value, a treatment parameter, a process data value, a timestamp, a production date of the container, a production location, a product for the container, a filling timestamp of a product into the container, a filling location of a product into the container, the treatment device (or at least an element of this treatment device), machine data, outer packaging, the transport device, a distribution method, a point of sale (POS), and the like. Preferably, a multitude of data values ​​of various types are collected and made available for transmission, and particularly preferably transmitted to the storage device.

[0063] In a further preferred method, at least two data values, and preferably a plurality of data values ​​of different types, are collected, which are attributable to the same identification means and / or the same identifier and which are preferably collected by at least two, and particularly preferably a plurality of different processing devices. Particularly preferably, (essentially) all collected data values ​​are transmitted to the storage device and / or made available for transmission.

[0064] The present invention further relates to a system for treating a plurality of containers, in particular bottles, preferably plastic containers, with at least one treatment device which is suitable and intended to perform at least one treatment step on the containers.

[0065] Preferably, the system includes at least one transport device which is suitable and intended to transport the containers at least temporarily within the treatment device.

[0066] The treatment device (preferably each one) includes at least one data acquisition device suitable and intended for acquiring at least one data value relating to the container and / or to at least one treatment step. The data acquisition device may, for example, be a control device, particularly for controlling, monitoring, and logging production data (such as fill level, closure checks), a quality control device for the container and / or the filling and / or closing and / or packaging process, a measuring device, an inspection device, a camera, a sensor device (particularly for recording process and / or environmental parameters), or even a thermometer and / or air pressure device.

[0067] The system preferably includes at least one detection device for capturing an identification means of the containers, by means of which the containers can each be uniquely identified.

[0068] According to the invention, the system includes a communication device configured to establish a communication connection, at least temporarily, with at least one storage device, particularly a cloud-based one. Preferably, the storage device is (at least partially) connected or connectable to the system for data communication via a public network. According to the invention, an identifier uniquely assignable to the identification means is stored and / or can be stored in the storage device. The processing device (and in particular, a plurality of processing devices of the system) is configured, suitable, and designed to provide the communication device with the at least one data value for transmission to the storage device, particularly at least indirectly and / or directly, and / or preferably for storage in the storage device.

[0069] Preferably, the system is suitable and intended to establish an association between the data value (or data characteristic thereof) and the respective identifier.

[0070] It is therefore also proposed within the framework of the inventive system that the data values ​​collected by one, and preferably by a plurality of, treatment devices are stored on a storage device, which is, for example, cloud-based and / or located at least partially outside of an internal company network. The data values ​​are stored in a form that allows them to be assigned or associated with an identifier (of the corresponding container). Preferably, at least one storage device is not directly integrated into an internal company network, at least partially.Preferably, at least one area of ​​the storage device cannot be accessed exclusively via an internal company network, but rather a communication connection is possible exclusively (at least partially) via a public network such as the Internet. Preferably, the storage device is external and is located outside the (respective) treatment device and, most preferably, outside the plant.

[0071] The system can be equipped with all the features described above relating to the method for operating a system, either individually or in combination. Preferably, the system is configured, suitable, and / or designed to execute the method for operating a system described above (in particular, also according to each preferred embodiment) as well as all process steps already described above in connection with the method, either individually or in combination. Conversely, the system can be equipped with all the features described within the context of the system, either individually or in combination.

[0072] Using (at least) a cloud-based storage system proposes a storage setup that preferably comprises a large number of interconnected servers. This offers the advantage that the storage system is scalable, particularly due to the elasticity of a cloud, and storage capacity can be expanded relatively easily. Large capacities could be accessed as needed.This is particularly advantageous if as many as possible, and especially essentially all, treatment devices that treat a container, and particularly preferably all containers of a plant and / or a producer, during manufacturing and / or (further) treatment and / or further processing, collect a large number of data values ​​by means of a data collection device and make these available for transmission to the storage device (and the data values ​​stored there, assigned to an identifier, are to remain available for retrieval essentially permanently (in particular at least for the entire lifespan of the container)).

[0073] Preferably, the system comprises at least two, and preferably a plurality, of different treatment devices that treat the same container (which is uniquely identifiable by means of the identifier) ​​and that are arranged at different, spaced-apart locations, and in particular not on the same company premises. Preferably, each of these treatment devices can access the at least one (common) storage device and, in particular, store and / or query data values ​​in a database (in particular a cloud database) stored thereon.

[0074] Preferably, the system comprises two storage facilities, particularly cloud-based ones. These two storage facilities are preferably independent of each other. Preferably, these two storage facilities differ in their access rights, particularly for external third parties, and / or the type of data stored. Preferably, the system and / or a treatment device comprises at least one separate communication facility for each of these storage facilities, wherein the communication facility uses, at least in sections, data transmission based on different protocols and / or different encryption systems (for varying degrees of data encryption).

[0075] Preferably, a storage facility, particularly a cloud-based one, is provided for storing and / or making available plant operator data, which is specifically not to be shared with third parties. Preferably, only the plant operator has access to this storage facility, while third parties are not permitted or allowed to access it. Preferably, the plant operator data consists of data characteristic of a line and / or the plant and / or the operation of the plant and / or individual components thereof. For example, this storage facility can contain some, and preferably all, relevant data for the control and / or operation of the plant.

[0076] Preferably, the second storage facility, particularly a cloud-based one, is configured, especially as a so-called general storage facility, such that, unlike the plant operator's storage facility described in the previous paragraph, third parties can also access it. Preferably, only a portion of the data from the plant operator's storage facility is stored in this general storage facility. For example, preferably only essential data such as production date, content, and similar information (product- and / or container-specific information) is stored here. This data is preferably transferred from the plant operator's storage facility to this (second or so-called general) storage facility. Preferably, the second storage facility contains only...The general storage facility does not store any data (especially data internal to the plant operator) for the control and / or operation of the plant.

[0077] Providing these two clouds or these two cloud-based storage facilities offers the advantage that each party involved only sees or can retrieve the data that is necessary.

[0078] The first cloud-based storage facility could be a purely internal (and / or plant operator-internal) storage facility configured so that only the plant operator, for example, of a container manufacturing device, and / or a plant manufacturer has access rights. The second cloud-based storage facility could be configured so that an external third party, such as an end user and / or a retailer, also has access rights to at least parts of the storage facility.

[0079] Additionally or alternatively, data values ​​could be stored (exclusively) on the first storage device. These values ​​could include process data, for example, relating to at least one treatment device, and preferably to a plurality of treatment devices, that treat the container before delivery of the container and / or the container filled with a product. Preferably, the second storage device contains data values ​​relating to the type and / or size of the container and / or contents, but preferably not process data for the manufacture of the container.

[0080] Preferably, the treatment device, and particularly preferably a plurality of treatment devices, has a communication interface via which a communication connection, in particular a real-time and / or direct communication connection, can be established at least temporarily via the communication device with the storage device and in particular with the two (cloud-based) storage devices.

[0081] The communication device is in particular a wired and / or wireless network.

[0082] In an advantageous embodiment, the treatment device, and preferably each treatment device, comprises a machine control unit or a machine controller (PLC) and / or a human-machine interface (HMI). Preferably, communication between each treatment device and the storage device occurs (particularly indirectly) via a data transmission device, which collects the data values ​​from several treatment devices to be transmitted to the storage device and preferably only then transmits the data values ​​to the storage device. Preferably, the system comprises only one data transmission device.Preferably, a machine control device of a first treatment device is connected (exclusively) to that of the next treatment device seen in the transport direction of the container for data communication and for providing and / or transmitting the collected data values ​​to the storage device.

[0083] Preferably, a detection device for detecting the identification means of a container is arranged upstream (especially immediately) in the direction of transport, upstream of the data transmission device.

[0084] Preferably, this acquisition device and the data transmission device exchange data relating to data values ​​to be transmitted to the storage device and / or relating to a acquired means of identification.

[0085] In an advantageous embodiment, a data transmission device is provided which transmits the data values ​​to be transmitted to the storage device from at least two treatment devices, particularly simultaneously, and in particular collects the data values ​​to be transmitted beforehand and / or temporarily stores them in a storage device.

[0086] Preferably, the communication device is suitable and intended for real-time processing and / or transmission of the data values ​​provided by a (in particular, each) treatment device.

[0087] In an advantageous embodiment, the communication device has (at least and in particular exactly) an integration layer, wherein a communication connection between the (communication interface of the) treatment device (and preferably between each communication interface of the plurality of treatment devices) and the storage device and preferably the two storage devices, in particular for transmitting (storing) and / or querying data values, can be established exclusively via the integration layer.

[0088] Preferably, the integration layer is an intermediate layer of an architecture of a software system of the plant (which is structured in particular according to a layered architecture), into which the (software component of the) communication device is structured (at least sectionally and preferably completely).

[0089] Preferably, a first intermediate layer (of a software system for the plant and / or the communication device) may already be necessary due to the processing machine or device itself. For example, in the case of a filling machine (as a processing machine or device), a code reader can be installed at the machine outlet. This reader registers the incoming bottle and preferably receives information from the filling machine at this point indicating which filling device, capping device, or product was used to process the bottle. This offers the advantage that, for example, a filling machine with 120 filling valves does not require the same number of identification elements, i.e., 120 in this case. The same applies to a capper as a processing device.

[0090] This identification device (code reader), such as this 2D code reader, can be positioned before or after the treatment machine or treatment device. Data aggregation will function as long as the container position can be assigned, even in single-lane sections on the conveyor, although aggregation within a fixed, assignable position (star pocket) is preferred. With a sensor arrangement at the infeed, the machine control knows which treatment elements will process the container, and at the outfeed, the control knows which element has processed the container.

[0091] Preferably, the software system of the system, and in particular the treatment device, is configured and / or structured (especially within a layered architecture) such that it has at least one (first) intermediate layer. This first intermediate layer is preferably assigned to the (or at least one) treatment device. Preferably, the treatment device can exchange data internally, i.e., within the treatment device itself, via this (first) intermediate layer. In particular, a data acquisition device of the treatment device (especially also exclusively, without data exchange with a cloud-based storage device) can transmit data via the intermediate layer to a data processing device of the treatment device that is different from the data acquisition device, such as the individualization device. This (first) intermediate layer can be the integration layer (mentioned above).Preferably, the (and especially each) treatment device of the system can use the integration layer (also) for (even purely) internal data exchange.

[0092] Preferably, the communication device has a (communication) bus, in particular a wired one, via which data can be transmitted. Preferably, communication between the treatment device, and in particular between each treatment device and the storage device, takes place via the communication bus.

[0093] In other words, the treatment device, and in particular each treatment device, addresses the (communication) bus for communication with the storage device.

[0094] Preferably, the individualization device is suitable and designed to request and receive an identifier for a container to be provided with an identifier via an application, in particular an ID generator application, which communicates with the communication bus to provide an identifier (especially a unique identifier). Preferably, the communication bus communicates, in particular directly, with an identifier generation device and / or (in particular indirectly) with an ID pool, to query and / or provide an identifier.

[0095] Preferably, the identifier generation device and / or an ID pool accesses resources (such as processor power or memory space) of at least one storage device, in particular for or during the generation and / or querying of an identifier.

[0096] Alternatively or additionally, the identifier generation device and / or the ID pool can have its own storage device and / or processor, independent of the storage device (especially the cloud-based one), which is used to generate and / or query an identifier. Preferably, such an identifier generation device can be located within the company and, in particular, in the same building as at least part, and preferably the entire, of the system.

[0097] Preferably, the treatment device is suitable and designed to query data values ​​from the at least one (and preferably also the second) storage device via the communication device, particularly with regard to a predetermined (to be treated) container (which is preferably identifiable by means of the identification means), and / or to transmit these data values ​​for storage. In particular, a status query with regard to a container to be treated can be made by a treatment device, and preferably by each treatment device.

[0098] Preferably, the treatment device, and in particular each treatment device, is suitable and intended to receive data relating to a container to be treated, which is transmitted from the communication device to the storage device, preferably to store it in an internal memory of the treatment device, and particularly preferably to make a change to at least one setting and / or size and / or at least one process parameter (in particular with regard to the, in particular individualized, treatment of the container to be treated).

[0099] It is conceivable that the identification method can be read via a mobile device, such as a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or similar device, and that data values ​​stored in the storage device relating to this container, and especially to the identifier assigned to this container, can be queried using this device. This can be advantageously used to allow an end consumer to verify, for example, the product's source, place of manufacture, bottling location, and / or distribution channel.

[0100] In an advantageous embodiment, the treatment device is selected from a group comprising a heating device for heating a preform, a forming device for forming a plastic preform into a plastic bottle, a sterilization device for sterilizing a container, in particular a plastic preform, a manufacturing device for producing a glass bottle, a filling device for filling a container with a product, an inspection device for inspecting a plastic preform or a bottle, a labeling device for labeling a container, a closing device for closing a container, in particular a filled one, a control device, a packaging device, a direct printing device for printing on a container, and an assembly device for assembling a plurality of containers into a single assembly.a destroyer for destroying the container and the like.

[0101] In an advantageous embodiment, the system has at least one further treatment device and preferably a plurality of further treatment devices.

[0102] In an advantageous embodiment, the treatment device is a further processing device suitable and intended for treating a container after delivery (especially in its already filled state). It could, for example, be a treatment device (such as a transport device) at the point of sale or a recycling device.

[0103] The present invention further relates to a system comprising a plant according to one of the embodiments described above and at least one storage device, accessible via the internet and / or cloud-based, described above in connection with the plant. The plant and the storage device can each be equipped with all the features described above in connection with the method or the plant, individually or in combination.

[0104] Preferably, a processor is provided that allows the data values ​​stored in the memory device to be evaluated and, in particular, enables analysis, updating, and / or maintenance of the database. For example, at least one additional data value assigned to a given identifier can be added to that identifier.

[0105] Preferably, the processor of the storage device is suitable and intended to perform authorization and / or authentication of a client (such as a mobile device or a treatment device) with respect to data transmission between the client and the storage device, such as querying a data value and / or transmitting a data value (with respect to a given identifier).

[0106] The present invention further relates to a method for the particularly unambiguous traceability and / or tracking and / or identification of a plastic container, which comprises the production of the plastic container from a plastic preform. Preferably, the plastic preform is expanded into the plastic container (within a blow molding device) by applying a fluid medium (such as blown air and / or a liquid such as the product to be filled).

[0107] According to the invention, this method comprises a step in which the plastic preform is individualized by arranging and / or introducing and / or generating an identification means, wherein the identification means is expanded at least partially during the expansion of the plastic preform into the plastic container and / or changes and, in particular, increases at least one geometric dimension in at least one direction and, more preferably, in at least two directions. Preferably, the identification means is a (particularly printed) QR code.

[0108] Preferably, exactly one identifier is assigned to this identification means. However, it is also conceivable that, conversely, the individualization of the plastic preform using the identification means is based on a generated identifier.

[0109] Preferably, a container manufactured in this way is used to provide at least one data value relating to the container and / or its means of identification and / or the associated identifier. The method can be equipped with all the steps and features described above in connection with the operation of the system.

[0110] The present invention of a system and the method for operating such a system has been described in relation to the treatment of containers and bottles. However, the present invention is transferable to systems with a treatment device for treating consumer products. The applicant reserves the right to file a claim to such a system and a method for operating such a system.

[0111] Further advantages and embodiments are shown in the attached drawings: These show: Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of a system according to the invention for treating containers according to a first embodiment; and Fig. 2 is a schematic representation of a system according to the invention for treating containers according to a second embodiment.

[0112] Fig. 1 Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a system 1 according to the invention for treating containers 10 according to a first embodiment and describes the technical process for individualizing a container by marking this container, here a bottle.

[0113] The reference symbol IDG identifies an ID generator, which, as an identifier generation device, is responsible for providing unique identifiers (IDs). Numerous methods and solutions exist for generating (and applying) identifiers or IDs.

[0114] The ID Generator IDG is (here) a script that is installed directly on the personalization device, in this case designated as printer unit 50, the ID Printer Unit, or runs on an external system. At least one (communication) connection must exist between the ID Printer Unit (ID printer unit) or personalization device as hardware and the identifier generation device, in this case the ID Generator IDG, as software or software service.

[0115] The reference symbol IDP designates an ID pool (or identifier pool), which provides the ID generator (generally the identifier generation device) with a collection (pool) of identifiers (IDs) (indicated by arrow P0). The IDs are subject to an algorithm and rules, so that, by encoding the ID, information such as the production date can be deduced. Each ID is unique.

[0116] Generating IDs is in Fig. 1 The ID is identified by reference numeral 42. After generation, the ID is communicated to the individualization unit, in this case the ID Printer Unit 50, via an interface. Arrow P1 indicates the process step in which the ID (or an identification element assigned to this identifier) ​​is applied to the container, in this case a bottle. The individualization unit, here the ID Printer Unit, is responsible for applying the ID (or an identification element assigned to this identifier) ​​to the bottle. Reference numeral 12 identifies an identification element located on bottle 12. This could be, for example, a (printed) QR code.

[0117] In the Fig. 1In the embodiment shown, a plastic preform is provided and fed by the transport device 20 to a heating device 30 (so-called "preform heater"), heated therein, and subsequently expanded in a blow molding device, the arrangement of which within Annex 1 is indicated by reference numeral 40, to form a (plastic) bottle 10. This bottle 10 is provided with an identification means 12 by the individualization device, here the pressure device 50 (indicated by arrow P2), thereby producing a bottle which has an identification means 12.

[0118] Bottle 10 begins its journey through the line (of Annex 1). For this purpose, bottle 10 can be transported by at least one transport device 20 from one treatment device to the next, as well as within the treatment device(s). The treatment devices shown here (in a sequence downstream of the bottle's transport direction) are an inspection device 60, a filling device 70 for filling bottle 10 with a product, a capping device 80, a drying device 110, a labeling device 120, and a packaging device 130 for packaging bottle 10.

[0119] Reference numeral 2 denotes a PLC (machine control) of a treatment device and reference numeral 4 denotes a human-machine interface (so-called "HMI", Human Machine Interface").

[0120] Reference numerals 85 and 90 each identify a control device (located, for example, at the end of the line and between the capping device 80 and the drying device 110) which checks, for example, the fill level in the bottle and / or the correct positioning of the cap on the bottle 10 and / or a tamper-evident ring and / or the proper labeling and / or packaging of the bottle 10, or other production data. These control devices 90 (here a so-called "Checkmat") in a line or in a system 1 serve as milestones and preferably read the IDs or record the identification means of the containers. This way, the current location of the bottle is known.

[0121] Furthermore, each machine or treatment device 60, 70, 80, 85, 110, 120, 130, 90 of Annex 1 should be able to enrich data to an ID or to an identification means of a bottle.

[0122] In one embodiment, a data transmission device 96, the so-called "Ready Kit," is responsible for aggregating the data (which is collected, in particular, from several processing devices, e.g., Checkmat 85, 90, a capping device 80 ("Capper") and / or a drying device 110 ("Dryer") and / or a labeling device 120 ("Labeler") and / or a packaging device 130 ("Packaging")). Therefore, in this embodiment, the collected data from an installation 1 are available at the earliest in the data transmission device (here in the Ready Kit). The data transmission device 96 (the Ready Kit) forwards the data to a cloud 150. In this embodiment, a detection device 94 for identifying a bottle ("Bottle Identifier") is preferably provided, which preferably detects the identification means 12 or thereby reads the ID (identified by reference numeral 92, arrow P5).In this embodiment, the acquisition device can establish a (communication) connection to the data transmission device 96 (see arrow P4), via which the data aggregated by the data transmission device 96 can be transmitted to the acquisition device, which in turn, in the embodiment shown here, can assign this data to an identifier via the acquired identification means 12 and writes the data together with the associated identifier or a characteristic value for this purpose to a cloud 150 as a storage device (illustrated by arrows P6 and P7).

[0123] It is possible that two storage facilities 150 and 152, which are at least partially and preferably completely separate from each other, are available, each of which can be provided as a cloud. A data communication connection can exist between these two clouds. One of the two storage facilities can, for example, be an internal company storage facility, while preferably one of the storage facilities is accessible (only) via a public network (at least partially outside the internal company network).

[0124] The two storage facilities 150 and 152 (especially cloud-based ones) can be closed systems. Preferably, a data communication link is established for exchanging data and / or messages between these two storage facilities 150 and 152 ("Bridged MQTT Broker"), which supports data exchange based on the MQTT protocol.

[0125] Arrow P8 indicates a communication link between the data transmission device 96 (the Ready-Kit) and the storage device 152, which in this case is a cloud-based storage device (so-called "Krones PET Cloud"). Communication between the data transmission device 96 and the cloud-based storage device ("Syskron Cloud") preferably takes place using the MQTT protocol.

[0126] Furthermore, a communication link is preferably established between the detection device 94 ("Bottle Identifier") and the data transmission device 96 in the embodiment described here. This communication link particularly preferably supports and / or is configured for communication based on the MQTT protocol. This allows the detection device 94 ("Bottle Identifier") to receive the data transmitted by each machine or treatment device. The detection device 94 ("Bottle Identifier"), which is currently handling the bottle, then aggregates the data (from the treatment devices) and writes it to the storage device 152 ("Krones PET Cloud").

[0127] A communication connection P8, based in particular on the MQTT protocol, between the data transmission device 96 and the storage device 152 ("Krones PET Cloud") preferably enables data synchronization. Actions derived from this, e.g., rerouting a bottle, can be initiated by the storage device 152 ("Krones PET Cloud"), communicated to the data transmission device 96, and implemented by the machine control system.

[0128] Fig. 2 Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a system 1 according to the invention for treating containers according to a first embodiment. Identical reference numerals denote identical devices or elements.

[0129] Unlike in Figure 1 is in the Fig. 2In the illustrated embodiment, a communication device 140 is provided, which has a common bus system or a common bus for data communication for all treatment devices and acquisition devices. The common bus serves as an integration layer between the storage device 152 ("Krones PET Cloud") and the sensors (cyber-physical systems, CPS) of the individual treatment devices, which are connected digitally.

[0130] In the embodiment shown here, the ID Pool IDP and the identifier generation device IDG (ID Generator) are located as service repositories within the cloud or the storage device 152. Furthermore, an ID Generator application IDA ("ID Generator App") is provided, which represents a (corresponding) service instance.

[0131] In the embodiment shown here, communication no longer takes place via a data transmission device 96, but sensor values ​​and other data are preferably transmitted directly from the machine or the individual treatment devices to the storage device (cloud). MQTT can also be used as the protocol here. Communication between the storage device 152 ("Krones PET Cloud") and the storage device 150 ("Syskron Cloud") can be achieved by bridging the MQTT brokers as an MQTT bridge.

[0132] Reference symbol P20 indicates an arrow illustrating a data exchange between the printer unit 50 ("ID Printer Unit") and the ID generator application IDA, in which the printer unit 50 sends a request ("Request: ID") to the ID generator application IDA to transmit an identifier. Arrow P22 illustrates the transmission of an identifier from the ID generator application IDA to the printer unit 50 ("Response: ID").

[0133] Arrows P24 and P26 each indicate a data transmission from a processing device, in this case the inspection device 60, and a control device 90 ("Checkmat"), in which an update of the status of bottle 10 is transmitted to the integration layer 140. The inspection device 60 transmits the updated status of the container, indicating that the bottle is "OK" and the preform is inflated (transmission of the message: "Read, update status = Bottle OK, preform inflated"). The control device 90 transmits to the integration layer 140 the current status of the container, indicating that the bottle is filled and sealed (transmission of the message: "Read, update status = Bottle OK, filled and sealed").Finally, arrow P29 indicates data communication between the labeling device 120 and the integration layer 140, in which the labeling device sends a request to the integration layer 140, requesting the ID and / or data values ​​("Request: ID, Data"). P30 then indicates the transmission of the response message ("Response: ID, Data"), in which data values ​​associated with an identifier are transmitted to the labeling device. Reference symbol list

[0134] 1. Plant 10. Container 20. Transport device 42. Identifier 50. Printing device 70. Filling device 80. Sealing device 85. Checkmat 90. Checkmat 94. Recording device 96. Data transmission device, Ready Kit 110. Drying device 120. Labeling device 130. Packaging device 140. Communication device, bus for data communication 150. Storage device 152. Storage device IDG Identifier generation device, ID Generator IDPID Pool P1 - P39. Arrows

Claims

1. A method for operating a plant (1) for treating a plurality of containers (10), in particular bottles, preferably plastic containers, having the steps: - providing at least one container (10) which has an identification means (12) by which the container (10) can be uniquely identified, wherein an identifier can be assigned in particular uniquely to the identification means (12), which identifier is stored in at least one memory device (152) which is cloud-based and / or at least temporarily connected or connectable via a public network to the plant (1) for data communication; - treating the container (10) with at least one treatment apparatus of the plant (1); - preferably transporting the container (10) at least temporarily in the treatment apparatus with at least one transport device (20); - collecting at least one data value with respect to the container (10) and / or with respect to at least one treatment step of the container (10), wherein at least two data values and preferably a plurality of data values of different type are collected which are assigned the same identification means and / or the same identifier and which are preferably collected by at least two and particularly preferably a plurality of different treatment apparatus; - providing the at least one data value for transmission and / or storage in the memory device (152); - preferably producing an assignment between the data value and the respective identifier of the container (10).

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that an identifier generating device of the plant (1) provides the identifier and preferably a plurality identifiers, which are suitable and intended for a unique identification of a container (10).

3. The method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the containers (10) are provided with the identification means (12) during their production and / or temporal before and / or during a forming process from a plastic preform to the plastic container.

4. The method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the identification means (12) is detected at least once and preferably several times, in particular before the container (10) is discharged from the treatment apparatus.

5. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the data value is selected from a group containing information relating to the container, to a measured value, to a treatment parameter, to a process data value, to a time stamp, to a production date, to a product for the container, to the treatment apparatus, to machine data, to an outer packaging, to the transport device, to a distribution modality, to a distribution location and the like.

6. A plant (1) for treating a plurality of containers (10), having at least one treatment apparatus which is suitable and intended for carrying out at least one treatment step on the containers (10), wherein the treatment apparatus has at least one data collection device (85, 90) which is suitable and intended for data collection of at least one data value with respect to the container (10) and / or with respect to at least one treatment step, wherein the plant (1) has at least one detection device (94) for detecting an identification means (12) of the containers (10), by which the containers can each be uniquely identified, characterized in that the plant(1) has a communication device which is configured to at least temporarily establish a communication connection with at least one memory device (152) which is cloud-based and / or is connected or connectable to the plant(1) at least temporarily via a public network for data communication, wherein an identifier which can be uniquely assigned to the identification means (12) is stored and / or can be stored in the memory device (152), wherein the treatment apparatus is configured, suitable and intended to provide the at least one data value to the communication device (140) for transmission to and / or for storage in the memory device (152), wherein the treatment apparatus and in particular a plurality of treatment devices is selected from a group comprising a heating apparatus for heating a preform, a forming apparatus for forming a plastic preform into a plastic bottle, a sterilizing apparatus for sterilizing a container, a production apparatus for producing a glass bottle, a filling apparatus for filling a container with a product, an inspection device for inspecting a plastic pre-form or bottle, a labeling apparatus for labeling a container, a sealing apparatus for sealing a container, a control device, a packaging device, a direct printing device for printing a container, an assembling apparatus for assembling a plurality of containers into an assembly, a destroying apparatus for destroying the container, and similar.

7. The plant (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that a data transmission device is provided which collects the data values of at least two treatment apparatuses to be transmitted to the memory device (152) before they are transmitted to the memory device (152).

8. The plant (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that the communication device has an integration layer, wherein a communication connection between the treatment apparatus and the memory device in particular for transmitting and / or query of data values can be established exclusively via the integration layer.

9. The plant (1) according to one of the preceding claims 6 and 8, characterized in that the communication device has at least one wired communication bus for transmitting data, via which communication of the and in particular each treatment apparatus with the memory device takes place.

10. The plant (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the treatment apparatus and in particular each treatment apparatus is suitable and intended to receive data relating to a container to be treated, transmitted by the communication device from the memory device (152), and to make a change in at least one setting and / or size and / or at least one process parameter relating to the, in particular individualized, treatment of the container to be treated.

11. A system of a plant (1) according to one of claims 6-10 and the at least one public network-accessible and / or cloud-based memory device (152).