Cover device for a filling station and filling station with such a cover device

Description

State of the art

[0001] Cover devices for a filling station for filling a container are already known from DE 199 20 260 A1, DE 10 2019 104 303 A1, DE 10 2019 214 962 A1 and DE 10 2017 128 363 A1, wherein the already known cover devices comprise at least a container transfer housing which forms a receiving space which is provided for receiving a container transfer unit of the filling station projecting out of a closed filling space of the filling station, wherein the container transfer housing comprises at least a transfer opening to a passage of the container into and / or out of the receiving space of the container transfer housing, and at least a cover which closes the transfer opening in at least one operating state of the cover, wherein the cover is movably mounted on the container transfer housing.

[0002] Furthermore, a cleaning device for packaging machines is already known from DE 10 2017 103 040 A1.

[0003] Furthermore, filling systems for filling cup-shaped containers are already known from CH 507 838 A and EP 1 495 997 A1. Disclosure of the invention

[0004] The invention relates to a covering device for a filling station for filling a container, comprising at least one container transfer housing which forms a receiving space designed to receive a container transfer unit of the filling station projecting out of a closed filling space of the filling station, wherein the container transfer housing comprises at least one transfer opening for a passage of the container into and / or out of the receiving space of the container transfer housing, and with at least one cover which closes the transfer opening in at least one operating state of the cover, wherein the cover is movably mounted on the container transfer housing.

[0005] It is proposed that the cover device include a cleaning unit located within the container transfer housing. When the transfer opening is closed by means of the cover, this unit is designed for automated cleaning of the receiving area. The cleaning unit also includes at least one sensor element for detecting at least one position of the cover. The filling station is specifically designed for filling the container with a liquid, a paste-like substance, and / or bulk material. For example, the filling station is designed for filling the container with food, animal feed, hygiene products, cosmetics, medical devices, or the like. In particular, the filling station, and especially the enclosed filling chamber, is designed for hygienically clean filling of the containers. Specifically, the filling station meets at least hygiene class II of the German Engineering Federation (VDMA).(VDMA), preferably hygiene class III ("Hygienic"), hygiene class IV ("UltraClean"), or hygiene class V ("Aseptic"). The container can be designed as a cup, bottle, vial, bag, tray, box, or have another shape. In particular, the filling station comprises at least one filling device, especially at least one filling tube or filling chute, within the enclosed filling chamber for filling the container. The filling station particularly preferably includes a sealing device within the filling chamber for sealing the filled container. The container transfer unit preferably comprises a receiving unit designed to accept an empty container from outside the filling chamber, either from a container magazine located outside the receiving chamber or from an operator.The container magazine can be designed as part of the cover device or as part of an external container supply device. Preferably, the container transfer unit comprises at least one dispensing unit for the filled container, which is located, in particular, outside the filling chamber. The filling station specifically includes a transport unit for transporting the container, particularly from the receiving unit, through the enclosed filling chamber, and especially to the dispensing unit.

[0006] The cover is designed, in particular, to close the receiving chamber, especially with the container transfer unit at least partially located therein, during at least one operating state of the cover, and to allow external access to the receiving chamber during at least another operating state of the cover. Specifically, the cover is designed to close or open the transfer opening, preferably depending on an operating state of the cover and / or the filling station. The cover comprises, for example, the transfer housing for receiving the receiving unit or the dispensing unit. Optionally, the cover comprises a further transfer housing, particularly with a further cover, for receiving the dispensing unit or the receiving unit, especially that part of the container transfer unit which is not located in the transfer housing.The container transfer housing has at least one transfer wall on which the transfer opening is arranged. In particular, the transfer wall defines the transfer opening. Preferably, the transfer opening is arranged within a single wall of the container transfer housing. In particular, this wall completely defines the transfer opening. Alternatively, the transfer opening is arranged across several walls. In the alternative embodiment, the multiple walls define the transfer opening. The transfer wall can be flat or curved. The transfer wall comprises, in particular, an outer surface facing away from the receiving space, an inner surface facing the receiving space, and a channel wall defining an opening through the transfer wall.The opening forms in particular the transfer opening, whereby a maximum opening width of the transfer opening may be smaller than a maximum opening width of the opening due to at least one insert element of the cover device, for example an edge reinforcement, a sealing ring, a guide rail for the cover, or the like, which is arranged in the opening.

[0007] A designated container transfer direction, along which a container is transported through the transfer opening, preferably runs at least substantially perpendicular to the outer surface and / or the inner surface of the transfer wall. The container transfer housing preferably defines a designated transport direction along which the container is transported within the receiving space. The transport direction can run at least substantially perpendicular or at least substantially parallel to the container transfer direction. Preferably, in one embodiment of the container transfer housing, the transport direction towards a receiving unit runs at least substantially perpendicular to the container transfer direction.In one, particularly alternative, embodiment of the container transfer housing for receiving the dispensing unit, the transport direction can be at least substantially perpendicular or at least substantially parallel to the container transfer direction. In particular, the container transfer housing includes a transport opening along the transport direction, which is designed to receive the container transfer unit. The transport opening and the transfer opening are preferably arranged on two different walls of the container transfer housing, preferably walls facing away from each other. The transfer opening preferably has a maximum opening length parallel to the transport direction. The container transfer direction can be perpendicular or parallel to the maximum opening length. The transfer opening preferably has a maximum opening width that is at least substantially perpendicular to both the transport direction and the container transfer direction.The maximum opening length and the maximum opening width can be the same or different. In particular, the maximum opening width can be equal to the maximum opening length and / or the maximum opening width. The maximum opening width is preferably greater than a multiple of the maximum extent of the container perpendicular to the container transfer direction when the container is transported along the container transfer direction through the transfer opening. In particular, the multiple of the maximum extent of the container is at least twice, preferably at least four times, and most preferably at least six times, the maximum extent of the container. In particular, the transfer opening is designed to allow several containers to pass through it simultaneously or overlapping in time, and especially to be fed to the container transfer unit.

[0008] The term "essentially perpendicular" here is intended to define, in particular, an orientation of a direction relative to a reference direction, wherein the direction and the reference direction, especially when viewed in a projection plane, enclose an angle of 90° and the angle has a maximum deviation of, in particular, less than 8°, advantageously less than 5°, and most advantageously less than 2°. The term "essentially parallel" here is intended to define, in particular, an orientation of a direction relative to a reference direction, especially in a plane, wherein the direction has a deviation from the reference direction of, in particular, less than 8°, advantageously less than 5°, and most advantageously less than 2°.

[0009] The cover can be arranged on the outer surface, the inner surface, and / or within the opening of the transfer wall. The cover is preferably formed by a single component, for example, a plate, a sheet, a tarpaulin, or the like. Alternatively, the cover comprises several, particularly identical, components, such as louvers, strips, or plates, which are movably arranged relative to one another, particularly by means of hinges, straps, cables, wires, or the like. Preferably, the cover is made of metal, for example, stainless steel or aluminum; alternatively, it is made of a plastic, for example, polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyphthalamide (PPA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), or the like, or of another material that would be suitable to a person skilled in the art. The cover is preferably positively fitted to the container transfer housing.In particular, the cover can only be removed from the container transfer housing without damage using a tool.

[0010] In particular, the cover device comprises a bearing unit by means of which the cover is slidably mounted relative to the container transfer housing along a straight, angled, and / or curved guide track and / or pivotably or rotatably about an axis. The bearing unit can be designed as a single part or as an assembly of the container transfer housing, or as a separate component or assembly which is / are attached to the container transfer housing. Preferably, a guide track along which the cover is movable runs at least substantially parallel to the outer surface and / or the inner surface of the transfer wall. Particularly preferably, the guide track along which the cover is movable runs at least substantially parallel to the maximum opening length of the transfer opening.Alternatively, the guide track along which the cover is movable runs at least substantially parallel to the maximum opening width of the transfer opening. Preferably, when viewed along the container transfer direction and in a state where the cover closes the transfer opening, the cover covers at least a large portion of a cross-sectional area of ​​the transfer opening that extends perpendicular to the container transfer direction. "Large portion" is understood to mean, in particular, more than 75%, preferably more than 90%, and most preferably more than 95% of a maximum reference size, especially the cross-sectional area of ​​the transfer opening. Optionally, when the cover closes the transfer opening, it extends beyond the transfer opening.

[0011] Preferably, the cover has a flat base. The cover can assume different shapes in different operating states by deforming, in particular bending and / or winding, the base. In particular, in an extended, especially unwound, state, the cover comprises a maximum longitudinal extent, a maximum width that is at least substantially perpendicular to the maximum longitudinal extent, and a material thickness that is at least substantially perpendicular to both the maximum longitudinal extent and the maximum width. Preferably, the maximum longitudinal extent of the cover is arranged at least substantially parallel to the maximum opening length of the transfer opening, at least when the cover is closing the transfer opening. The maximum width of the cover is preferably arranged at least substantially parallel to the maximum opening width of the transfer opening.

[0012] The material thickness of the cover is preferably arranged at least substantially parallel to the container transfer direction, at least in a state that closes the transfer opening. The maximum length and maximum width of the cover are preferably each at least 10 times, preferably more than 20 times, and particularly more than 100 times, greater than the material thickness of the cover. The maximum longitudinal extent and maximum width of the cover can be the same or different, with the difference between the maximum width and the maximum length preferably being less than a factor of 20, and particularly less than a factor of 10.

[0013] Preferably, the cover seals the transfer opening at least splash-proof against liquids that strike the cover within the receiving space at an angle between 30° and 90°, preferably at any angle. Optionally, the cover device includes a seal on the cover and / or within the opening in the transfer wall, providing a watertight and / or dustproof seal of the transfer opening, particularly up to at least 1 m. Preferably, the cover device includes a storage unit in which the cover is at least partially arranged if the cover seals the transfer opening only partially.The storage unit can be identical to the container transfer housing, particularly if the cover is arranged on the inner surface of the transfer wall, or it can be a separate unit, preferably fixed to the container transfer housing, particularly if the cover is arranged on the outer surface of the transfer wall. For example, the storage unit can be designed as a frame, a housing, a guide rail unit, or the like.

[0014] The design of the cover device according to the invention allows the receiving area to be opened and closed advantageously flexibly and with advantageously little effort. In particular, a trolley for the intermediate storage of a removable cover is no longer necessary. Furthermore, the receiving area can be kept clean with advantageously little effort. In particular, the risk of operator error, such as placing a removable cover in an unclean area, can be advantageously minimized.

[0015] Furthermore, it is proposed that the cover device comprises at least one winding shaft on which the cover is wound in at least one operating state. The winding shaft is preferably arranged within the storage unit. In particular, the bearing unit comprises at least one rotary bearing in which the winding shaft is supported. The bearing unit is preferably arranged in or on the storage unit. In particular, the winding shaft is designed to wind the cover within the storage unit. A longitudinal axis of the winding shaft is preferably oriented at least substantially perpendicular to the transport direction and, in particular, at least substantially perpendicular to the container transfer direction. Preferably, the winding shaft is arranged on a side of the container transfer housing facing away from the transport opening.The cover device preferably comprises a spring element arranged on the winding shaft for automatic rotation of the winding shaft and, in particular, for automatic winding of the cover onto the winding shaft. In an advantageously component-free embodiment, the cover itself forms the spring element, which is designed as a coil spring and is relaxed when the transfer opening is open and is tensioned by the cover to close the transfer opening. Alternatively, the spring element is independent of the cover. Alternatively or additionally to the spring element, the cover device comprises at least one winding shaft motor for automatic rotation of the winding shaft. Alternatively or additionally, the cover device comprises a handwheel for manual rotation of the winding shaft.Alternatively, the winding shaft is designed without a drive and is passively rotated, in particular, only by pulling or pushing the cover. As an alternative to a winding shaft, the storage unit comprises guide rails that extend along the outer or inner surface away from the transfer opening. Alternatively to the winding shaft, the cover is designed as a telescopic cover with at least two telescopic segments that are slidable into one another. The design according to the invention allows the cover to be stored advantageously in a compact manner.

[0016] The cleaning unit preferably comprises at least one spray head, and in particular several spray heads, for spraying at least one cleaning fluid. The cleaning unit is specifically designed for carrying out a Cleaning in Place (CIP) process. For example, the cleaning unit can be configured to distribute one, several, or all of the following cleaning fluids within the receiving chamber: water, in particular for pre-rinsing and / or rinsing other cleaning fluids; an alkaline agent, in particular sodium hydroxide; an acid; a disinfectant; ultrapure water, in particular for rinsing out the disinfectant; and / or purified water. The at least one spray head is preferably arranged on a side of the receiving chamber facing away from or opposite the transfer opening.In particular, the at least one spray head and the transfer opening are designed to be arranged on different sides of the container transfer unit. Preferably, the cleaning unit includes a distribution system for distributing the cleaning fluid to several spray heads of the cleaning unit. The cleaning unit is specifically designed to clean the receiving chamber and / or the container transfer unit. Preferably, the container transfer housing includes at least one drain for discharging the used cleaning fluid. The design according to the invention allows for advantageously efficient, automated, and rapid cleaning of the receiving chamber, with advantageously minimal impact on the surrounding environment. In particular, the cover device can advantageously minimize the amount of cleaning fluid escaping from the receiving chamber.

[0017] Preferably, the sensor element is designed to detect, at least, that the cover is in a closed position in which it closes the transfer opening. Additionally or alternatively, the sensor element, or a further sensor element of the cover device, is designed to ensure that the cover is in a transfer position in which the transfer opening is maximally open, or in which at least one path for the container from the container magazine into the receiving chamber is cleared by the cover, and in particular, not blocked. Specifically, in the transfer position of the cover, a larger portion of the cover is located within the storage unit than in the closed position.Optionally, the sensor element and / or the additional sensor element, or a sensor unit with a plurality of sensor elements of the cover device, is designed to detect one or more intermediate positions of the cover between the closed position and the transfer position. The sensor element and / or the additional sensor element can be configured, for example, as a photoelectric barrier, a distance sensor, a proximity switch, or the like, to detect a position of the cover. Alternatively, the sensor element is configured as an angle sensor and arranged on the winding shaft to detect the winding or unwinding of the cover. Alternatively, the sensor element is configured as a mechanical switch that is actuated by the cover in the position to be detected.Alternatively, the sensor element along the transfer opening comprises resistive electrical contacts which are electrically connected by the cover, such that the resulting electrical resistance of the electrodes depends on the position of the cover. According to the invention, the operation of the cleaning unit and / or the filling station can advantageously be controlled depending on the position of the cover.

[0018] Furthermore, it is proposed that the container transfer housing has at least one guide rail in or on which the cover is arranged. Preferably, the container transfer housing comprises at least two guide rails arranged at least substantially parallel to each other. In particular, the guide rails define the aforementioned guide track. Preferably, a longitudinal axis of the at least one guide rail is arranged at least substantially parallel to the maximum opening length, or alternatively, the maximum opening width, of the transfer opening. The at least one guide rail can be arranged on the outer surface, the inner surface, and / or within the opening of the transfer wall. Preferably, the at least one guide rail has a groove within which the cover is slidably arranged. Alternatively, the cover includes a groove in which a rib of the at least one guide rail engages.In a particularly cost-effective embodiment, the at least one guide rail is made of a plastic, in particular PPA, PPS, PET, PEEK, or the like. Alternatively, the at least one guide rail is made of metal, in particular stainless steel and / or aluminum. Preferably, the at least one guide rail extends over at least a large part of the maximum opening length or the maximum opening width. Preferably, the guide rail includes at least one stop element that positively secures the cover to the guide rail along its longitudinal axis and, in particular, defines the transfer position. Preferably, one end, in particular the stop element, of the at least one guide rail is arranged on the storage unit or projects into the storage unit.Alternatively, at least one guide rail and / or the stop element is arranged at a distance from the storage unit. The design according to the invention advantageously minimizes the risk of inaccurate or skewed positioning of the cover at the transfer opening. In particular, it advantageously minimizes the risk of inadequate sealing of the transfer opening. Specifically, the cover reliably assumes both the locking and transfer positions.

[0019] Furthermore, it is proposed that the cover includes a closing strip which, in at least one operating state of the cover, is designed to close a transport opening, in particular the aforementioned one, of a station housing of the filling station that defines the filling chamber. A longitudinal axis of the closing strip is preferably arranged at least substantially perpendicular to the transport direction. In particular, the longitudinal axis of the closing strip is arranged at least substantially perpendicular to the maximum opening length. Preferably, the closing strip and the storage unit, in particular the winding shaft, are arranged at different ends of the cover. The closing strip preferably closes the transport opening at least when the cover is in the closed position.Preferably, the end cap is arranged at a distance from the transport opening, at least when the cover is in the transfer position. Preferably, the maximum transverse extent of the end cap perpendicular to its longitudinal axis is smaller than the maximum opening length of the transfer opening and / or smaller than the maximum longitudinal extent of the end cap along its longitudinal axis, in particular at least 5 times smaller, preferably at least 10 times smaller. The transport opening is specifically designed to transport the container into the filling chamber without contact with the station housing. Alternatively, instead of an end cap, the cover has a maximum width and material thickness perpendicular to the transport direction, which precisely seals the transport opening. The design according to the invention advantageously allows the filling chamber to be tightly sealed.In particular, a separate mechanism for sealing the filling chamber can be dispensed with.

[0020] It is further proposed that the cover device comprises a container magazine, in particular the one already mentioned, arranged outside the container transfer housing, for positioning the containers at the container transfer unit, wherein the cover is arranged between the container magazine and the container transfer housing in at least one operating state. The container magazine preferably comprises at least one drop chute, in particular several parallel drop chutes, for providing the container, in particular several containers simultaneously. In particular, the container magazine comprises at least one holding element for holding the container to be fed next to the receiving unit. Preferably, the container magazine is attached to the container transfer housing in a way that allows for non-destructive removal, in particular by screws.Preferably, the at least one drop chute of the container magazine is aligned with the transfer opening along the container transfer direction. In particular, the container magazine comprises at least one spacer element by means of which an end of the drop chute facing the container transfer housing, in particular the retaining element, is spaced apart from the transfer wall. In particular, the spacer element is at least long enough that a container held by the retaining element in the drop chute maintains a distance from the transfer wall. In particular, the cover is arranged between the drop chute and the transfer opening in the closed position. In particular, the spacer is longer than the material thickness of the cover. According to the invention, the cover can be moved into the closed position and into the transfer position without having to remove the container magazine.In particular, the cover can be moved into the closed position before the container magazine is replaced when changing the container format. This allows for a clean and efficient replacement of the container magazine. Furthermore, the transfer opening can be closed, for example, for cleaning the receiving area, without removing the container magazine.

[0021] Furthermore, it is proposed that the cover device comprises at least one drive unit, which includes at least one actuating element for manual movement of the cover. Preferably, the drive unit is designed to move the cover from the release position to the closed position, in particular by pulling it. Alternatively or additionally, the drive unit is designed to move the cover from the closed position to the release position. Preferably, the cover is moved from the closed position to the release position by the spring element. The drive unit and the storage unit are preferably arranged on opposite sides of the release opening. Preferably, the actuating element is designed as a handwheel.In particular, the drive element comprises a winch which is connected to the cover via at least one cable, in particular a wire rope or a synthetic fiber rope, via a chain, or via a belt or the like. In particular, the handwheel is mechanically connected to the winch for rotation. Alternatively, the drive unit comprises a rod, in particular a telescopic rod, which can be extended and retracted by means of the actuating element and is fixed to the cover. Alternatively, the actuating element is designed as a handle which is arranged directly on the cover. Due to the design according to the invention, the cover can advantageously be operated independently of the operation of the filling station. In particular, maintenance work can be carried out advantageously and easily.

[0022] It is further proposed that the cover device comprises at least one drive unit, in particular the one already mentioned, which includes at least one motor, in particular an electric motor, for automated movement of the cover. A drive shaft of the motor is connected to the winch, in particular for rotation of the winch. In an embodiment of the drive unit with a motor and a handwheel, the drive unit preferably includes at least one coupling for coupling or decoupling the drive shaft of the motor and the winch. In an embodiment of the drive unit with a motor and a handwheel, the drive unit preferably includes at least one further coupling for coupling or decoupling the handwheel and the winch. Preferably, the cover device includes the motor of the drive unit or the winding shaft motor for movement of the cover.Alternatively, the cover device comprises the motor of the drive unit and the winding shaft motor for moving the cover. Preferably, the cover device for moving the additional cover comprises a further drive unit independent of the drive unit, with a further motor that can be operated independently of the main drive unit. Alternatively, the drive unit comprises a gear unit that couples the cover and the additional cover to the same motor. The design according to the invention eliminates the need for an operator to be present near the transfer opening. In particular, the risk of dust, hair, or the like entering the receiving area can be advantageously minimized. Furthermore, the risk of incorrect operation, especially unhygienic handling of the cover, can be advantageously minimized.

[0023] Furthermore, it is proposed that the cover device includes at least one control unit, wherein the control unit is designed to coordinate the movement of the cover with the operation and / or cleaning, in particular disinfection, of the filling station. The control unit specifically includes control electronics. The control electronics preferably comprise a processor unit, a memory unit, and an operating program stored in the memory unit. The control unit is specifically designed to send control signals to the drive unit, the cleaning unit, and / or the filling station. The control unit is also specifically designed to query sensor signals from the sensor element.The control unit can be designed as part of a central control system for the filling station or as a standalone electronic component, optionally with its own electronic housing. Preferably, the control unit includes at least one data interface for communication with the filling station, in particular with a central control system, and / or with an operator of the filling station. The control unit is preferably designed to query the operating status of the filling station via the data interface. In particular, the control unit is designed to cause the drive unit or the winding shaft motor to move the cover into the transfer position or at least to release any locking mechanism of the cover in the closed position during the commissioning of the filling station.In particular, the control unit is designed to cause the drive unit to move the closure position and, in particular, to lock it there when the filling station is shut down, paused, cleaned, and / or disinfected. Preferably, the control unit is designed to activate the cleaning unit when the filling station is cleaned and / or disinfected. Preferably, the control unit is designed to activate the cleaning unit only when the cover is in the closed position. Preferably, the control unit is designed to deactivate the cleaning unit after a cleaning program stored in the memory unit has finished or if the cover is moved from the closed position prematurely.Optionally, the cover device includes a mechanical or electromagnetic locking mechanism that prevents manual movement of the cover, at least during the cleaning program. In particular, the control unit is designed to evaluate the sensor signal from the sensor element to determine the cover's position. Optionally, the control unit accepts operator commands to move the cover and / or activate / deactivate the cleaning unit, regardless of the filling station's operating state. Preferably, the control unit queries the operator for commands via the data interface. Alternatively or additionally, the control unit includes at least one input element, in particular a button, a touchscreen, a rotary knob, or the like, for manual command input by the operator.The design according to the invention allows the movement of the cover to be advantageously coupled to the operation of the filling station and / or the cleaning unit. In particular, the risk of the cover being missing or incorrectly positioned during a cleaning process and / or operation of the filling station can be advantageously minimized.

[0024] Furthermore, a filling station for filling a container is proposed, which includes at least one cover device according to the invention. The filling station comprises, in particular, the station housing, which surrounds the filling chamber, wherein the station housing has at least one container inlet and one container outlet. Optionally, the station housing includes an airlock device at the container inlet and / or the container outlet to prevent dust from entering the filling chamber. The airlock device can, for example, comprise a louvered curtain, an extraction system, a blower, or the like. Preferably, the filling station includes the transport unit for transporting the container through the filling chamber. The transport unit comprises, in particular, a conveyor system, for example, a belt conveyor system and / or a link belt conveyor system.The transport unit protrudes from the filling chamber, and especially from the airlock, particularly through the container inlet and / or the container outlet. Specifically, the part(s) of the transport unit protruding from the filling chamber forms at least part of the container transfer unit. Preferably, the container transfer housing, and optionally the further container transfer housing of the cover device, surrounds the container transfer unit located outside the filling chamber. The container transfer housing is preferably attached to the station housing. Optionally, the container transfer housing is formed integrally with the station housing or comprises at least one wall, which also forms a wall of the station housing. The filling chamber and the receiving chamber are separated from each other, in particular by at least one intermediate wall, with the transport opening, container inlet, or container outlet being located in this intermediate wall.The partition wall can be formed by the station housing and / or the container transfer housing. In particular, the filling station comprises at least the filling device within the enclosed filling chamber for filling the container. Particularly preferably, the filling station comprises a sealing device within the filling chamber for sealing the filled container. In particular, the filling station comprises at least one central control unit for synchronizing the movement of the container by means of the transport unit with the filling device, the sealing device, and / or the container magazine. Preferably, the filling station comprises at least one operating element for operation of the filling station by an operator, for example, a button, a touchscreen, a rotary knob, or the like.Preferably, the filling station comprises at least one data interface for communication with the control unit of the capping device, in particular for forwarding commands entered by an operator via the control element to the control unit. The design according to the invention allows for the provision of a filling station that achieves an advantageously high hygiene class and whose receiving areas outside the filling chamber are accessible with advantageously little effort.

[0025] The covering device and / or the filling station according to the invention are not intended to be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the covering device and / or the filling station according to the invention may, to achieve a functionality described herein, have a different number of individual elements, components, and units than the number specified herein. Furthermore, values ​​within the specified limits of the value ranges stated in this disclosure are also considered disclosed and freely usable. Drawings

[0026] Further advantages become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate two exemplary embodiments of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. A person skilled in the art will expediently consider the features individually and combine them into meaningful further combinations.

[0027] They show: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a filling station according to the invention, Fig. 2 a schematic representation of a cover device according to the invention in an open state, Fig. 3 a schematic representation of the cover device according to the invention in a closed state and Fig. 4 a schematic representation of an alternative embodiment of a cover device according to the invention. Description of the exemplary implementations

[0028] Figure 1Figure 1 shows a filling station 12a. The filling station 12a is designed for filling a container 14a. The filling station 12a comprises at least one cover device 10a. The filling station 12a particularly comprises a station housing 54a. The station housing 54a preferably encloses a filling chamber 24a of the filling station 12a. The filling chamber 24a and the station housing 54a are designed, in particular, for clean filling of the container 14a. Preferably, the filling station 12a includes at least one filling device 63a, in particular a filling tube, in the filling chamber 24a for filling the container 14a'. The filling station 12a preferably comprises at least one sealing device 65a in the filling chamber 24a for sealing the filled container 14a. The filling station 12a particularly includes a transport unit 64a. The transport unit 64a is preferably designed as a link belt conveyor system.In particular, the transport unit 64a is designed to transport the empty container 14a along a transport direction 66a into the filling chamber 24a. Specifically, the transport unit 64a is designed to transport the filled and, in particular, sealed container 14a', 14a" out of the filling chamber 24a along the transport direction 66a or along another transport direction. In particular, the transport unit 64a extends beyond the filling chamber 24a. The filling station 12a includes, in particular, a container transfer unit 26a. The container transfer unit 26a preferably includes a receiving unit 68a for transferring the empty container 14a to the transport unit 64a. Preferably, the container transfer unit 26a includes a dispensing unit 70a for transferring the filled and, in particular, sealed container 14a', 14a" from the transport unit 64a, for example, to an external conveyor system.In particular, the part of the transport unit 64a projecting out of the filling chamber 24a in the opposite direction of transport 66a forms the receiving unit 68a. Preferably, the part of the transport unit 64a projecting out of the filling chamber 24a in the direction of transport 66a or the further direction of transport forms the dispensing unit 70a.

[0029] The cover device 10a comprises at least one container transfer housing 16a. The container transfer housing 16a forms a receiving chamber 20a. The receiving chamber 20a accommodates the container transfer unit 26a, in particular the receiving unit 68a, of the filling station 12a, which projects out from the enclosed filling chamber 24a of the filling station 12a. The container transfer housing 16a comprises at least one transfer opening 28a to a passage of the container 14a into the receiving chamber 20a of the container transfer housing 16a. The further container transfer housing 18a comprises at least one further transfer opening 28a to a passage of the container 14a into the receiving chamber 20a of the container transfer housing 16a. The cover device 10a comprises at least one cover 32a, which closes the transfer opening 28a in at least one operating state of the cover 32a. The cover 32a is movably mounted on the container transfer housing 16a.

[0030] The cover 32a is preferably movably mounted at least substantially parallel to the transport direction 66a. Preferably, the cover 32a is arranged on an outer side of a transfer wall of the container transfer housing 16a and is particularly movable along this outer side. In particular, the transfer opening 28a is arranged in the transfer wall. The cover 32a is, for example, designed as sheet metal or metal foil. The cover 32a is in Figure 1 shown in particular in a transfer position in which the transfer opening 28a is passable for the container 14a. The cover 32a is movable in such a way that it can be brought into a closed position. The closed position of the cover 32a is shown in Figure 1The dashed lines indicate the following. In the closed position, the cover 32a preferably closes the transfer opening 28a. The transfer opening 28a defines, in particular, a container transfer direction 72a, which runs at least substantially perpendicular to the outside of the transfer wall. The container transfer direction 72a is preferably designed to be aligned at least substantially parallel to the vertical for operation of the filling station 12a.

[0031] The cover device 10a comprises a container magazine 56a arranged outside the container transfer housing 16a for positioning the containers 14a at the container transfer unit 26a, in particular at the receiving unit 68a. The container magazine 56a preferably comprises at least one drop chute, which is designed to guide the container 14a along the container transfer direction 72a and transfer it to the container transfer unit 26a. An end of the drop chute facing the container transfer unit 26a is preferably spaced apart from the container transfer housing 16a. The cover 32a is arranged between the container magazine 56a, in particular the drop chute, and the container transfer housing 16a in at least one operating state. The cover 32a is arranged, in particular, in the closed position between the container magazine 56a, in particular the drop chute, and the container transfer housing 16a.Preferably, the cover 32a in the transfer position exposes at least enough of the transfer opening 28a to allow the container 14a to be transported from the container magazine 56a along the container transfer direction 72a through the transfer opening 28a without touching the cover 32a. The container magazine 56a is specifically designed to allow the container 14a to fall onto the container transfer unit 26a along the container transfer direction 72a.

[0032] The cover device 10a preferably comprises a storage unit 78a. The storage unit 78a is specifically designed to accommodate at least part of the cover 32a when the cover 32a is in the transfer position. Here, the storage unit 78a is, for example, designed as a separate housing, which is arranged, and in particular fixed, to an outer surface of the container transfer housing 16a. Specifically, the storage unit 78a is arranged on a wall of the container transfer housing 16a that differs from the transfer wall. The cover device 10a comprises at least one winding shaft 36a, on which the cover 32a is wound in at least one operating state of the cover 32a. The winding shaft 36a is preferably mounted on or in the storage unit 78a. Specifically, the winding shaft 36a is designed to wind the cover 32a within the storage unit 78a.The cover device 10a preferably comprises at least one spring element, in particular a coil spring, for rotating the winding shaft 36a. The spring element is specifically designed to pull the cover 32a from the closed position into the transfer position. Particularly preferably, the cover 32a itself forms the spring element. The winding shaft 36a, in particular together with the storage unit 78a, is preferably arranged on a side of the container transfer housing 16a facing away from the filling chamber 24a.

[0033] The cover device 10a comprises at least one drive unit 58a. The drive unit 58a is specifically designed to move the cover 32a from the transfer position to the closed position, particularly against a restoring force generated by the spring element. The drive unit 58a comprises at least one motor for the automated movement of the cover 32a. The drive unit 58a preferably includes a winch connected to a drive shaft of the motor. In particular, the drive unit 58a is designed to pull the cover 32a into the closed position by means of wire ropes or the like and, in particular, to lock it there.Preferably, the drive unit 58a is designed to move the cover 32a into the transfer position, to release at least one locking mechanism of the cover 32a, and optionally to apply a tensile force to the cover 32a that opposes the restoring force of the spring element, whereby the tensile force is kept smaller than the restoring force. The drive unit 58a is particularly arranged on a side of the container transfer housing 16a facing the filling chamber 24a.

[0034] The cover device 10a comprises at least one sensor element 42a for detecting at least one position of the cover 32a. The sensor element 42a is described here as a non-contact, in particular capacitive or inductive, proximity sensor. The sensor element 42a is designed, by way of example, to detect whether the cover 32a is in the closed position. In particular, the sensor element 42a is arranged on a side of the container transfer housing 16a facing the filling chamber 24a. Optionally, the sensor element 42a is arranged on a wall of the transfer wall that defines the transfer opening 28a.

[0035] The cover device 10a comprises at least one cleaning unit 38a, which is arranged within the container transfer housing 16a. The cleaning unit 38a includes, in particular, several spray heads 74a for spraying a cleaning fluid within the receiving chamber 20a. The cleaning unit 38a and the transfer opening 28a are preferably arranged on different sides of the container transfer unit 26a. When the transfer opening 28a is closed by means of the cover 32a, the cleaning unit 38a is designed for automated cleaning of the receiving chamber 20a. The cover device 10a comprises at least one control unit 62a. The control unit 62a is designed for the temporal coordination of a movement of the cover 32a and the operation and / or cleaning, in particular sterilization, of the filling station 12a.In particular, the control unit 62a causes the drive unit 58a to move the cover 32a into the closed position when the control unit 62a has received a command to clean the receiving chamber 20a. The cleaning command can be received, for example, from an operator, from a central control unit of the filling station 12a, or triggered by a timer of the control unit 62a. Preferably, the control unit 62a queries the sensor element 42a to determine whether the cover 32a is in the closed position. In particular, the control unit 62a only causes the cleaning unit 38a to introduce the cleaning fluid into the receiving chamber 20a via the spray heads 74a when the cover 32a is in the closed position.In particular, the control unit 62a causes the drive unit 58a to move, or be moved, the cover 32a from the closed position to the transfer position when the filling station 12a is started up. Optionally, the cover device 10a includes a transfer sensor element that detects whether the cover 32a is in the transfer position. Alternatively, the control unit 62a contains a time setting for how long the cover 32a takes to move from the closed position to the transfer position. Specifically, the control unit 62a sends a release signal to the central control unit, indicating that a filling program for filling the container 14a can be executed as soon as the cover 32a is in the transfer position.

[0036] The cover device 10a comprises at least one further container transfer housing 18a. The further container transfer housing 18a forms, in particular, a further receiving space 22a. The further receiving space 22a accommodates, in particular, the dispensing unit 70a. The further container transfer housing 18a comprises at least one further transfer opening 30a to a passage for the filled and, in particular, sealed container 14a', 14a" from the further receiving space 22a of the further container transfer housing 18a.

[0037] The cover device 10a comprises at least one further cover 34a, which closes the further transfer opening 30a in at least one operating state of the further cover 34a. The further cover 34a is movably mounted on the further container transfer housing 18a.

[0038] The additional cover 34a and the additional container transfer housing 18a can be identical or different in design to the cover 32a and the container transfer housing 16a, respectively. The dispensing unit 70a can, for example, be designed to transfer the filled and, in particular, sealed container 14a', 14a" to an external belt conveyor or to provide the filled and, in particular, sealed container 14a', 14a" for an external gripping device or an external suction device. In particular, the additional transfer opening 30a can be arranged on a ceiling wall, a side wall, or a bottom wall of the additional container transfer housing 18a. Apart from the arrangement and shape of the additional transfer opening 30a, the design details of the additional cover 34a and the additional container transfer housing 18a preferably correspond to those of the cover 32a and the container transfer housing 16a, respectively.In particular, the cover device 10a comprises at least one further winding shaft 37a for winding up the further cover 32a. The cover 34a is preferably wound up, at least partially, in a further storage unit 78a of the cover device 10a. Preferably, the cover device 10a comprises a further drive unit 60a for moving the further cover 34a. Preferably, the drive unit 58a and the further drive unit 60a can be controlled independently of each other. Preferably, the cover device 10a comprises a further sensor element 44a for detecting a position of the further cover 34a. Preferably, the cover device 10a comprises a further cleaning unit 40a, which is arranged in the further receiving space 22a. The cleaning unit 38a and the further cleaning unit 40a can preferably be controlled independently of each other.Preferably, the cleaning unit 38a and the further cleaning unit 40a are connected to a common cleaning fluid source, in particular to a common collection tank of the cover device 10a. Preferably, the control unit 62a is provided to control the cover 32a and the further cover 34a. Alternatively, the cover device 10a comprises a further control unit which specifically synchronizes a movement of the further cover 34a with the operation and / or cleaning, in particular disinfection, of the filling station 12a.

[0039] Figure 2Figure 1 shows a perspective view of the part of the cover device 10a arranged on the receiving unit 68a. For clarity, the container magazine 56a is represented only by stacks of containers 14a located in several parallel drop chutes of the container magazine 56a. The container transfer unit 26a comprises, in particular, a plurality of perforated plates 76a. The perforated plates 76a include, in particular, several holes, here eight by way of example, which are arranged in rows perpendicular to the transport direction 66a and are designed for hanging one container 14a each. The container magazine 56a includes, in particular, a corresponding number of drop chutes to the number of holes in the perforated plates 76a.

[0040] The container transfer housing 16a comprises, in particular, two guide rails 46a, 48a, in which the cover 32a is arranged. The cover 32a is located, in particular, in the transfer position. The guide rails 46a, 48a run, in particular, at least substantially parallel to the transport direction 66a. By way of example, the guide rails 46a, 48a have a U-shaped profile in a plane perpendicular to the transport direction 66a, in which the cover 32a is suspended. The guide rails 46a, 48a extend, in particular, from the storage unit 78a to a transport opening 52a of the station housing 54a. The transport opening 52a is, by way of example, arranged on a sluice device 80a, in particular a suction device, of the filling station 12a. The drive unit 58a and the sluice device 80a are, in particular, arranged partially integrated into one another, resulting in an advantageously compact design.In particular, the drive shaft of the motor of the drive unit 58 is mounted on a housing of the lock device 80a. Alternatively, the drive unit 58a can also be designed independently of the lock device 80a.

[0041] Figure 3 shows the in Figure 2 The part of the cover device 10a shown, wherein the cover 32a is in the closed position. The cover 32a includes a sealing strip 50a. In at least one operating state of the cover 32a, in particular in the closed position, the sealing strip 50a is designed to close the transport opening 52a of the station housing 54a of the filling station 12a, which delimits the filling chamber 24a.

[0042] In the Figure 4A further embodiment of the invention is shown. The following descriptions and drawings are essentially limited to the differences between the embodiments, whereby with regard to identically designated components, in particular components with the same reference numerals, reference is also generally made to the drawings and / or the description of the other embodiments, in particular the Figures 1 to 3 , can be referenced. To distinguish the embodiments, the letter a is the reference numeral of the embodiment in the Figures 1 to 3 recreated. In the exemplary embodiment of the Figure 4 The letter a is replaced by the letter b.

[0043] Figure 4Figure 1 shows a cover device 10b for a filling station for filling a container 14b. The cover device 10b comprises at least one container transfer housing 16b. The container transfer housing 16b forms a receiving chamber 20b. The receiving chamber 20b accommodates a container transfer unit 26b of the filling station, which projects out from a closed filling chamber of the filling station. The container transfer housing 16b comprises at least one transfer opening 28b for a passage of the container 14b into the receiving chamber 20b of the container transfer housing 16b. The cover device 10b comprises at least one cover 32b, which closes the transfer opening 28b in at least one operating state of the cover 32b. The cover 32b is movably mounted on the container transfer housing 16b. The cover device 10b comprises at least one drive unit 58b, which includes at least one actuating element for manual movement of the cover 32b.The actuating element is designed, for example, as a handwheel.

[0044] Regarding further features of the cover device 10b, reference may be made to the Figures 1 to 3 and their description is referenced.

Claims

1. A covering device for a filling station for a filling of a container (14a; 14b), with at least one container transfer housing (16a, 18a; 16b) that forms an accommodating space (20a, 22a; 29b) configured to accommodate a container transfer unit (26a; 26b) of the filling station, which projects from a closed filling space (24a) of the filling station, the container transfer housing (16a, 18a; 16b) having at least one transfer opening (28a, 30a; 28b) for a passage of the container (14a; 14b) into and / or out of the accommodating space (20a, 22a; 20b) of the container transfer housing (16a, 18a; 16b), and with at least one covering (32a, 34a; 32b) which closes the transfer opening (28a, 30a; 28b) in at last one operation state of the covering (32a, 34a; 32b), wherein the covering (32a, 34a; 32b) is supported movably at the container transfer housing (16a, 18a; 16b), characterized by at least one cleaning unit (38a, 40a; 38b), which is arranged within the container transfer housing (16a, 18a; 16b) and is configured, when the transfer opening (28a, 30a; 28b) is closed by means of the covering (32a, 34a; 32b), for an automated cleaning of the accommodating space (20a, 22a; 20b), and by at least one sensor element (42a, 44a) for a detection of at least one position of the covering (32a, 34a).

2. The covering device according to claim 1, characterized by at least one winding shaft (36a; 36b), which the covering (32a; 32b) is wound on in at least one operation state of the covering (32a; 32b).

3. The covering device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the container transfer housing (16a, 18a; 16b) comprises at least one guide rail (46a, 48a; 46b, 48b) in or on which the covering (32a, 34a; 32b) is arranged.

4. The covering device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the covering (32a, 34a; 32b) comprises a closing strip (50a; 50b) which is configured, in at least one operation state of the covering (32a, 34a; 32b), to close a transport opening (52a; 52b) of a station housing (54a; 54b) of the filling station which delimits the filling space (24a).

5. The covering device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a container repository (56a; 56b) which is arranged outside the container transfer housing (16a, 18a; 16b), for a positioning of the containers (14a; 14b) at the container transfer unit (26a; 26b), wherein the covering (32a, 34a; 32b) is in at least one operation state arranged between the container repository (56a; 56b) and the container transfer housing (16a, 18a; 16b).

6. The covering device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one drive unit (58b), which comprises at least one actuation element for a manual moving of the covering (32b).

7. The covering device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one drive unit (58a, 60a) comprising at least one motor for an automated movement of the covering (32a, 34a).

8. The covering device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one control or regulation unit (62a), the control or regulation unit (62a) being configured for a temporal coordination of a movement of the covering (32a, 34a; 32b) and an operation and / or a cleaning, in particular sterilization, of the filling station.

9. Filling station for a filling of a container (14a; 14b), with at least one covering device according to one of claims 1 to 8.