SEALING DEVICE, SEALING STATION AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING SUCH A SEALING DEVICE

Description

State of the art

[0001] EP 3 515 693 B1 already proposes a sealing device for sealing a container. This sealing device comprises at least one sealing tool that forms an annular sealing zone in physical contact with the container, and at least one ceramic heating unit for heating the sealing zone to produce a seal.

[0002] Furthermore, a sealing device for sealing a container is also known from DE 10 2016 218 218 A1, wherein the already known sealing device comprises at least a sealing tool that forms an annular sealing zone for physical contact with the container, and at least a ceramic heating unit for heating the sealing zone to produce a seal.

[0003] Furthermore, a sealing device for sealing a container is already known from DE 10 2009 046 469 A1, wherein the already known sealing device comprises at least a sealing tool that forms a ring-shaped sealing zone for physical contact with the container, and at least a ceramic heating unit for heating the sealing zone to produce a seal. Disclosure of the invention

[0004] The invention relates to a sealing device, in particular a sealing head, for sealing a container, with at least one sealing tool that forms an annular sealing zone for physical contact with the container, and with at least one ceramic heating unit for heating the sealing zone to produce a seal.

[0005] It is proposed that the ceramic heating unit comprises a heating conductor which, in a heating area of ​​the ceramic heating unit, is at least substantially completely surrounded by a thermally conductive ceramic base body of the heating unit. The container includes, in particular, a receiving unit designed to receive a packaged item and, in particular, a container lid. The packaged item may, for example, be a liquid, a pasty mass, a bulk material, and / or a packaged item. The packaged item could, for example, be a foodstuff, a pharmaceutical product, a consumer good, or the like. The receiving unit may, in particular, be designed as a cup, a bottle, a tube, a tray, a box, or the like. The receiving unit is preferably sealed with the container lid. Preferably, the container lid is designed to seal the receiving unit in a watertight and / or airtight manner.Depending on the product being packaged, the receiving unit and / or the container lid can be made of metal, glass, ceramic, wood, paper, plastic, and / or a composite material. The receiving unit and the container lid can be made of the same material or different materials. Preferably, the container lid is foil-shaped or plate-shaped, particularly as a sealing plate.

[0006] The sealing device is designed to connect the container lid, which is loosely attached to the receiving unit, to the receiving unit by means of force and / or energy transfer, thereby sealing the container. The sealing device comprises, in particular, at least one force and / or energy transfer element for transferring force and / or energy to the container. Specifically, the sealing device includes at least the ceramic heating element as a force and / or energy transfer element for transferring heat to the container. For example, the sealing device includes, in particular in addition to the ceramic heating element, at least one pressing tool as a force and / or energy transfer element for pressing the container lid onto the receiving unit. Preferably, the sealing device comprises at least one seal holder on which the ceramic heating element is arranged.The sealing tool is designed for direct contact with the container. The sealing tool is specifically arranged on the seal holder and / or on the force and / or energy transmission element. The sealing tool can be designed as a separate component or as a single unit with the ceramic heating element or the seal holder. "Single unit" is understood to mean molded in one piece. Preferably, this single piece is manufactured from a single blank, a compound, and / or a casting, particularly preferably by an injection molding process, especially a single- and / or multi-component injection molding process. Preferably, the sealing device comprises at least one drive element for moving the sealing tool along a sealing direction, particularly towards the container.The drive element is specifically designed to bring the sealing tool into physical contact with the container before sealing and, in particular, to remove it from the container after sealing. Preferably, the drive element is designed as a linear drive, stepper motor, or servo drive. The annular sealing zone has a material recess, particularly in a plane perpendicular to the sealing direction. In this plane perpendicular to the sealing direction, the annular sealing zone has an outer circumference and an inner circumference, which in particular defines the material recess. Preferably, the outer and inner circumferences are arranged concentrically. Alternatively, the respective geometric centers of the outer and inner circumferences are offset from each other.The outer and inner circumferences preferably each form a closed line or a closed line segment, which can be designed in any shape, particularly depending on the application. For example, the outer and / or inner circumference, each individually, forms a circle, an oval, a rectangle, a polygon, or another shape, especially one adapted to a sealing surface of the container. In particular, the outer and inner circumferences can have the same shape or different shapes, differing only by a scale factor. Preferably, the average material thickness of the sealing zone between the outer and inner circumferences, perpendicular to the sealing direction, is less than the maximum opening dimension of the material recess in the plane perpendicular to the sealing direction, preferably less than half of this maximum opening dimension, and optionally less than a quarter of this maximum opening dimension.

[0007] The ceramic heating element is designed to heat the sealing tool, particularly before it comes into contact with the container, to a sealing temperature and optionally to maintain this temperature during the sealing process. The ceramic base is preferably made of an electrically insulating material and / or coated with an electrically insulating sheath. Preferably, the ceramic base and the heating element are made of the same ceramic base material, with the heating element being particularly doped to increase its electrical conductivity relative to the ceramic base. Alternatively, the heating element is made of metal. The heating element is designed to heat the ceramic base, which then conducts heat to the sealing tool.The ceramic base preferably has a thermal conductivity of more than 20 W / mK, more preferably more than 35 W / mK, and optionally more than 100 W / mK. Preferably, the heating element is completely surrounded by the ceramic base, except for a contact surface or connecting wires for an electrical supply and return. The interior of the ceramic base is preferably at least substantially homogeneous, and in particular, layer-free. Specifically, any manufacturing-related layers within the ceramic base, for example, those formed by layer-by-layer application of a ceramic raw material, differ with respect to chemical and / or physical properties by less than 25%, preferably less than 15%, and most preferably less than 5%, from the average value of the corresponding property of the base.In particular, the ceramic base body exhibits the same thermal conductivity in every direction perpendicular to the heating conductor, especially within the limits of the aforementioned fluctuations. Specifically, the ceramic base body exhibits a quasi-isotropic thermal conductivity, at least substantially, especially within the limits of the aforementioned fluctuations. Due to diffusion processes, chemical and / or physical properties in areas of the ceramic base body located closer to the heating conductor may differ from those in areas located further away.

[0008] The design according to the invention advantageously and reliably protects the heating element from damage. In particular, the ceramic heating unit can continue to be used reliably even if the ceramic base body is damaged, for example by chipping of material. In particular, the risk of damage to the heating element can be advantageously minimized.

[0009] It is further proposed that the ceramic heating unit comprises at least one additional ceramic base body, which is formed separately from the ceramic base body, wherein the ceramic base body and the additional ceramic base body are arranged in a plane perpendicular to a sealing direction, in particular the aforementioned sealing direction, at least substantially equidistant from a geometric center point of the ceramic heating unit, especially the annular sealing zone. The additional ceramic base body preferably encloses a further heating conductor, which is formed separately from the heating conductor. Alternatively, the ceramic base body and the additional ceramic base body are arranged on the same heating conductor.The ceramic base body and the additional ceramic base body can be in physical contact with each other, particularly at sealing temperature, and / or be spaced apart from each other, particularly at ambient temperature. In particular, the ceramic base body, the additional ceramic base body, and optionally further ceramic base bodies of the ceramic heating unit form a segmented shape of the sealing zone, particularly parallel to the inner and / or outer circumference of the sealing zone. In particular, a surface of the ceramic heating unit facing the sealing tool and / or forming the sealing tool, distributed over the ceramic base bodies, has at least substantially the same area as the sealing zone, particularly equal to within 20%, preferably within 10%, and most preferably within 5%.Preferably, the ceramic base bodies are at least substantially identical in construction, particularly except for manufacturing tolerances, and are arranged in a rotationally symmetrical or torsionally symmetrical manner. Due to the design according to the invention, in the event of a malfunction and / or a defective seal caused by one of the ceramic base bodies with its associated heating conductor, it is advantageously unnecessary to replace the entire ceramic heating unit. In particular, maintenance costs for the sealing device can be advantageously kept low.

[0010] Furthermore, it is proposed that the ceramic heating unit comprises at least one additional ceramic base body, which is formed separately from the ceramic base body, wherein the ceramic base body and the additional ceramic base body are arranged on different, closed paths around a geometric center point of the ceramic heating unit, in particular the annular sealing zone. The different paths are preferably concentric with respect to the geometric center point. In particular, the ceramic base body and the additional ceramic base body are arranged one behind the other, viewed from the geometric center point.The ceramic base body and the additional ceramic base body can be arranged in corresponding positions on their respective paths, in particular such that the ceramic base body conceals the additional ceramic base body when viewed from the geometric center, or they can be arranged offset from each other along their respective paths, in particular such that the ceramic base body at most partially conceals the additional ceramic base body. The additional ceramic base body preferably encloses an additional heating conductor that is separate from the heating conductor. Alternatively, the ceramic base body and the additional ceramic base body are arranged on the same heating conductor. The ceramic base body and the additional ceramic base body can be in physical contact with each other, particularly at sealing temperature, and / or be spaced apart from each other, particularly at ambient temperature.In particular, the ceramic base body, the additional ceramic base body, and optionally further ceramic base bodies of the ceramic heating unit segmentally replicate the shape of the sealing zone, especially in a direction perpendicular to the inner and / or outer circumference of the sealing zone. For example, the ceramic heating unit has a track with a diameter of 75 mm on which the ceramic base body and optionally at least one further ceramic base body are arranged, especially to heat a 75 mm sealing zone for a 75 mm container. For example, the ceramic heating unit has a track with a diameter of 95 mm on which the additional ceramic base body and optionally further additional ceramic base bodies are arranged, especially to heat a 95 mm sealing zone for a 95 mm container.The design according to the invention allows the ceramic heating unit to be used for advantageously many container sizes.

[0011] It is further proposed that the sealing device include a control unit for separately controlling the temperature of the different ceramic base bodies. A "control unit" is understood to mean, in particular, a unit with at least one control electronics module. Specifically, "control electronics" is understood to mean a unit with a processor unit, a memory unit, and an operating program stored in the memory unit. The control unit can be configured to individually adjust the temperature of each ceramic base body with one of the heating elements or to individually adjust the temperature of groups of ceramic base bodies.A group of ceramic base bodies comprises, for example, all ceramic base bodies arranged on the same path around the geometric center of the ceramic heating unit, and specifically excludes all ceramic base bodies arranged on different paths around the geometric center of the ceramic heating unit. According to the invention, the sealing zone can advantageously be variably adapted to the container geometry by differently controlling the heating conductors on the different paths. In particular, the energy used for sealing can be advantageously kept low by not controlling heating conductors that are not needed for a specific container. Furthermore, in conjunction with temperature sensors in / on the ceramic base bodies, the setting or control of the ceramic heating unit can be advantageously adjusted precisely and in a targeted manner.In particular, if the sealing quality of one of the ceramic base bodies is inadequate, it is unnecessary to adjust the control of the entire ceramic heating unit.

[0012] Furthermore, it is proposed that at least one electrical connection of the ceramic heating unit for the heating conductor runs transversely, and in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to a sealing direction. The term "substantially 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°. Most preferably, the electrical connection runs towards a central axis of the sealing device, which passes through the geometric center of the sealing zone and, in particular, parallel to the sealing direction.Preferably, all electrical connections of the ceramic heating unit, especially for the heating elements and especially for sensors arranged in / on the ceramic heating unit, are arranged transversely to the sealing direction and are particularly aligned with the central axis of the sealing device. Preferably, the electrical connection is arranged on a side of the ceramic base body that faces away from the sealing tool. The side of the ceramic base body on which the electrical connection is arranged is preferably facing away from the central axis, or alternatively, facing the central axis. Alternatively, the electrical connection runs at least substantially parallel to the sealing direction.The term "essentially parallel" here refers in particular to an alignment of a direction relative to a reference direction, especially in a plane, wherein the direction has a deviation from the reference direction of preferably less than 8°, advantageously less than 5°, and particularly advantageously less than 2°. The design according to the invention allows the electrical connections to be advantageously brought together centrally. In particular, an advantageously large installation space of the sealing device can be kept free of electrical connections. Furthermore, strain relief of the electrical connections can be advantageously achieved.

[0013] Furthermore, it is proposed that the at least one ceramic base body forms the sealing tool with the sealing zone in direct contact with the container, at least partially. One side of the ceramic base body forming the sealing tool can be smooth or textured, for example, ribbed, corrugated, studded, provided with a grid, or the like. The ceramic heating element is arranged on the seal holder, particularly on a side of the seal holder facing away from the drive element. The design according to the invention allows for a sealing device with advantageously few individual parts. In particular, the thermal resistance, especially due to contact resistance, between the heating element and the container can be advantageously kept low. In particular, the heat capacity of a segment of the sealing zone can be advantageously kept low.In particular, an abnormal temperature drop of the ceramic base body, for example due to dirt or liquid on the container, can be advantageously detected quickly.

[0014] It is further proposed that the sealing tool be designed as an attachment that is arranged on the ceramic base body, particularly reversibly. "Reversibly arranged" is understood to mean, in particular, that it can be fixed and detached without damage. Specifically, the sealing tool can be fixed and detached from the ceramic base body several times without any wear-related loss of function of the sealing tool and / or the ceramic base body. The attachment is preferably made of metal, for example, stainless steel, and in particular, heat-resistant steel. The attachment is preferably fastened to the seal holder, in particular by screws, or alternatively, by a snap-in mechanism. Preferably, the sealing device includes at least one holder for fixing the ceramic heating element to the seal holder, in particular by positively enclosing it between the seal holder and the holder, or optionally by clamping it.In a design of the sealing tool as an attachment, the sealing tool can be formed as a single unit with the holder or separately from the holder. The design according to the invention allows the shape and / or size of the sealing zone to be advantageously and easily adapted, in particular without replacing or modifying the ceramic heating element.

[0015] Furthermore, it is proposed that the sealing device comprises a centering unit for securing the container during a sealing process and a seal holder, in particular the one already mentioned, for receiving the ceramic heating unit, wherein the ceramic heating unit is arranged in a form-fitting manner between the centering unit and the seal holder. The centering unit is preferably arranged in the material recess of the sealing zone. The centering unit is preferably designed to ensure a relative arrangement of the container lid to the receiving unit. The centering unit has, for example, an outwardly convex contact surface, which is designed for direct contact with the container, in particular the container lid.Preferably, the contact surface projects beyond the sealing zone along the sealing direction, in particular so that the centering unit presses the container lid towards the receiving unit before the sealing zone makes contact with the container lid, and in particular bends a central area of ​​the container lid into the receiving unit. In particular, the centering unit is formed integrally with the holder for the ceramic heating unit and / or the sealing tool. Alternatively, the centering unit is formed separately from the holder for the ceramic heating unit and / or the sealing tool. The design according to the invention allows a sealing device to be provided with an advantageously small number of individual components. Furthermore, the risk of a container lid becoming jammed within the material recess of the sealing zone can be advantageously minimized.

[0016] Furthermore, it is proposed that the sealing device comprises a seal holder, in particular the one already mentioned, for receiving the ceramic heating element, wherein the seal holder forms the sealing tool with the sealing zone. In particular, the ceramic heating element is embedded in a recess of the seal holder. The recess preferably extends from a side of the seal holder facing away from the sealing tool into the seal holder. The seal holder is preferably made of metal, for example, stainless steel, and in particular, heat-resistant steel. In particular, the seal holder is plate-shaped or disc-shaped. Preferably, the material thickness of the seal holder parallel to the sealing direction, from a bearing surface of the ceramic heating element in the recess to the sealing zone, is less than the maximum extent of the ceramic base body in this direction.Preferably, the ceramic base body is completely arranged within the recess and, in particular, does not protrude from the seal holder. One side of the seal holder, which forms the sealing tool, can be smooth or textured, for example, ribbed, corrugated, studded, provided with a grid, or the like. The design according to the invention advantageously minimizes the risk of damage to the ceramic heating element.

[0017] It is further proposed that at least one ceramic base body is made of silicon nitride or aluminum nitride. Preferably, all ceramic base bodies, and in particular at least all ceramic base bodies on the same closed path, are made of the same material. Optionally, ceramic base bodies on different paths around the geometric center of the sealing zone are made of different materials. Due to the design according to the invention, the ceramic heating unit simultaneously exhibits advantageously high thermal conductivity, advantageously low heat capacity, and / or advantageously high hardness.

[0018] Preferably, the sealing device comprises at least one test unit, at least partially integrated into a sealing unit of the sealing device, for monitoring the sealing quality of the container sealed by the sealing unit, wherein the test unit comprises at least one temperature sensor for detecting a sealing temperature. Preferably, the temperature sensor is arranged in a sensor material recess of the ceramic base body of the ceramic heating unit of the sealing unit, and / or the temperature sensor is arranged in a sensor material recess of a sealing tool of the sealing unit, wherein the sensor material recess of the sealing tool is located in the immediate vicinity of the ceramic heating unit. The design of the sealing device according to the invention advantageously allows sensor data for determining the sealing quality to be collected during the sealing process and / or immediately thereafter.A separate inspection of the seal quality, in particular a standalone container inspection station, can be dispensed with after sealing. This allows for a significantly reduced overall length and throughput time of a filling and / or production line used to fill the containers with the packaged goods, which utilizes the sealing device. The sealing temperature can be advantageously recorded individually for each container to be sealed. In particular, changes in the sealing temperature during the sealing process can be advantageously monitored. The sealing temperature can then be used to determine the seal quality.For example, different temperature changes can be used to advantageously distinguish between a bent container lid, a double-layered container lid, a container lid that is displaced relative to the receiving unit, a contaminant located between the container and the container lid, such as a fluid, food residue or other contaminants, or the like.

[0019] Preferably, in at least one embodiment of the sealing device according to the invention, the temperature sensor is arranged in a sensor material recess of the sealing tool, which is located in the immediate vicinity of the ceramic base body of the ceramic heating unit. Preferably, when the sensor material recess is located in the immediate vicinity of the ceramic base body of the ceramic heating unit, it is located outside the ceramic base body of the ceramic heating unit, preferably directly within the sealing tool. The term "immediate vicinity" is understood to mean, in particular, a region of an element which has a maximum distance, especially relative to another element, and in particular to an outer surface of the other element facing the element, of less than 25 mm, preferably less than 10 mm, and most preferably less than 8 mm.Preferably, the temperature sensor has a maximum distance relative to the ceramic heating unit, and in particular relative to the base body, of less than 25 mm, preferably less than 10 mm, and most preferably less than 8 mm. Preferably, the temperature sensor is arranged in the sensor material recess of the sealing tool such that the temperature sensor, in particular a temperature sensing area of ​​the temperature sensor, such as a temperature sensor tip or the like, is spaced at a distance of less than 10 mm, preferably less than 5 mm, and most preferably less than 2 mm from a sealing surface, in particular an outer sealing surface, of the sealing tool or a contact plane of the sealing unit. Preferably, the annular sealing zone forms the sealing surface of the sealing tool.Preferably, the temperature sensor, when positioned in the sensor material recess of the sealing tool, has a distance, particularly a maximum distance, between 0.1 mm and 5 mm along a direction extending at least substantially perpendicular to the sealing surface of the sealing tool. It is conceivable that, in at least one embodiment of the sealing device according to the invention, the temperature sensor is arranged in the sensor material recess of the sealing tool and in the sensor material recess of the base body of the heating unit. The temperature sensor can be arranged partially in the base body of the heating unit and partially in the sealing tool. The temperature sensor can extend completely through the base body into the sealing tool. It is also conceivable that the temperature sensor is arranged completely outside the base body.Furthermore, it is conceivable that the test unit has two separate temperature sensors, one of which is arranged in or on the sealing tool and the other in or on the base body, particularly to enable an advantageous target / actual temperature comparison, especially a comparison of a desired target temperature on the base body of the heating unit with the actual temperature prevailing on the sealing tool. Advantageously, by providing two separate temperature sensors, one on the sealing tool and the other on the base body of the heating unit, redundant temperature measurement can preferably be enabled.

[0020] The temperature sensor is preferably designed as a contact sensor, particularly preferably as a resistance thermometer, alternatively as an expansion thermometer, or a thermocouple. Preferably, the temperature sensor is arranged on or embedded in the energy and / or force transmission element and / or the sealing tool. Alternatively, the temperature sensor is arranged on or in the seal holder. Alternatively, the temperature sensor is designed for non-contact measurement of the sealing temperature and is, for example, designed as a pyrometer or thermographic camera. Preferably, the temperature sensor is designed to detect the temperature of the energy and / or force transmission element, the sealing tool, and / or the container as the sealing temperature.Preferably, the temperature sensor is designed to detect a temperature drop of the energy and / or force transmission element and / or the sealing tool upon contact with the container. Alternatively, the temperature sensor is designed to detect a temperature rise of the container upon contact with the energy and / or force transmission element and / or the sealing tool.

[0021] Furthermore, particularly in at least one embodiment of the sealing device according to the invention, it is conceivable that the test unit comprises at least two, and in particular several, temperature sensors and a processing unit, in particular the previously mentioned one, for evaluating the test parameter detected by the temperature sensors. The processing unit is designed to determine the sealing quality as a function of comparing two values ​​of the test parameter, which are detected at at least two different measuring points assigned to the same container. To solve the problem of enabling a structurally simple and reliable determination of the sealing quality, it is conceivable that, in an alternative embodiment, the sealing device is designed independently of the arrangement of the temperature sensor in a sensor material recess. Preferably, in the alternative embodiment, the sealing device comprises:In particular, in the embodiment designed independently of the arrangement of the temperature sensor in a sensor material recess, at least one sealing unit for a force and / or energy transfer to a container to produce a seal, and at least one test unit, at least partially integrated into the sealing unit, for monitoring the sealing quality of the container sealed by the sealing unit, wherein the test unit comprises at least one temperature sensor for detecting a sealing temperature, wherein the test unit comprises at least two, in particular several, temperature sensors and a processing unit, in particular the one already mentioned, for evaluating the test parameter detected by means of the temperature sensors, wherein the processing unit is provided for determining the sealing quality as a function of a comparison of two values ​​of the test parameter, which are detected at at least two different measuring points.which are assigned to the same container. Preferably, the two temperature sensors are arranged at different positions on the heating unit and / or the sealing tool. The temperature sensors are preferably arranged uniformly along a longitudinal or principal axis of extension of the base body of the heating unit on the heating unit and / or on the sealing tool. Preferably, the temperature sensors are arranged on the heating unit and / or the sealing tool according to an n-fold symmetry. In particular, "n" represents the number of temperature sensors. For example, with a maximum of two temperature sensors, the temperature sensors are offset from each other by 180°, with a maximum of three temperature sensors by 120°, with a maximum of four temperature sensors by 90°, etc., on the heating unit and / or on the sealing tool. However, it is also conceivable that the temperature sensors,Particularly depending on the application, the temperature sensors may be arranged unevenly on the heating unit and / or the sealing tool, or they may be arranged differently in each segment, for example, evenly distributed in one segment and unevenly distributed in another, etc. Other arrangements of temperature sensors that would appear useful to a person skilled in the art, particularly for determining sealing quality, are also conceivable. The test parameters can be easily evaluated. In particular, precise determination of temperature fluctuations or differences in different areas can be advantageously achieved.

[0022] Furthermore, particularly in at least one embodiment of the sealing device according to the invention, it is conceivable that the test unit comprises a processing unit, in particular the previously mentioned one, for evaluating the test parameter detected by the temperature sensor, wherein the processing unit is designed to evaluate a time course of the test parameter in order to determine the sealing quality. It is conceivable that, in an alternative embodiment, the sealing device, in order to solve the problem of enabling a structurally simple and reliable determination of the sealing quality, is designed independently of the arrangement of the temperature sensor in a sensor material recess.Preferably, in the alternative embodiment, particularly in the embodiment designed independently of the arrangement of the temperature sensor in a sensor material recess, the sealing device comprises at least one sealing unit for transferring force and / or energy to a container to produce a seal, and at least one test unit integrated at least partially into the sealing unit for monitoring the sealing quality of the container sealed by the sealing unit, wherein the test unit comprises at least one temperature sensor for detecting a sealing temperature, wherein the test unit comprises a computing unit, in particular the one already mentioned, for evaluating the test parameter detected by means of the temperature sensor, wherein the computing unit is provided for evaluating a time course of the test parameter in order to determine the sealing quality.It is conceivable that the processing unit is designed to evaluate the temporal profile of the test parameter as a function of values ​​acquired by a single temperature sensor, or that the processing unit is designed to evaluate the temporal profile of the test parameter as a function of values ​​acquired by a multitude of temperature sensors. This can advantageously enable precise fault detection. Furthermore, a predictive function can be advantageously enabled.

[0023] Furthermore, particularly in at least one embodiment of the sealing device according to the invention, it is conceivable that the test unit comprises at least one sealing unit for sealing a receiving chamber of the sealing unit in which at least the temperature sensor is arranged. It is conceivable that, in an alternative embodiment, the sealing device, in order to solve the problem of enabling a structurally simple and reliable determination of the sealing quality, is designed independently of the arrangement of the temperature sensor in a sensor material recess.Preferably, in the alternative embodiment, particularly in the embodiment designed independently of the arrangement of the temperature sensor in a sensor material recess, the sealing device comprises at least one sealing unit for a force and / or energy transfer to a container to produce a seal, and at least one test unit integrated at least partially into the sealing unit for monitoring the sealing quality of the container sealed by the sealing unit, wherein the test unit comprises at least one temperature sensor for detecting a sealing temperature, and wherein the test unit has at least one sealing unit for sealing a receiving space of the sealing unit in which at least the temperature sensor is arranged.Preferably, the sealing unit comprises at least one, in particular ceramic, feedthrough element for the passage of electrical conductors, especially those of the heating unit or the temperature sensor. In particular, the sealing unit comprises a separate feedthrough element for each temperature sensor, assigned to that temperature sensor, for the passage of a conductor from the respective temperature sensor to a connection with the processing unit and / or a power supply. The sealing unit comprises at least one cable guide element, such as a cable grommet or the like, arranged in particular on the feedthrough element, for guiding a conductor of the heating unit and / or the temperature sensor located in the feedthrough element out of the feedthrough element, wherein the cable guide element preferably has a sealing or strain relief function.The sealing unit preferably comprises at least one sealing element arranged at an interface between the seal holder and the sealing tool, particularly for sealing the receiving space defined by the seal holder and the sealing tool. Preferably, the sealing unit comprises a plurality of sealing elements, particularly depending on the number of contact lines / points between the seal holder and the sealing tool, arranged at an interface between the seal holder and the sealing tool. This advantageously enables reliable operation of the sealing device in a humid operating environment, while also allowing for reliable determination of the sealing quality.

[0024] Furthermore, a sealing station, particularly for a filling and / or production plant, is proposed, comprising at least one sealing carrier for storing at least one sealing device according to the invention, in particular several sealing devices according to the invention, at least one sealing device according to the invention, and at least one sealing support for supporting the container, in particular several containers, during sealing. The filling and / or production plant particularly comprises at least one filling station for filling the containers with the packaged goods. Optionally, the filling and / or production plant comprises at least one production station for manufacturing, processing, or preparing the packaged goods and the containers.The filling and / or production plant preferably comprises at least one conveying system, in particular a belt conveyor, for transporting the containers with the packaged goods from at least the filling station to the sealing station. The filling station, or another station of the filling and / or production plant, is designed to position the container lid on the receiving unit filled with the packaged goods, in particular to place it onto the container lid. The sealing station preferably comprises a frame unit for mounting the sealing station on the conveying system. The sealing support and the sealing carrier are preferably attached to the frame unit. Preferably, the sealing support is designed to support the conveying system transporting the container and / or to align the frame unit with the conveying system, in particular so that the container assumes a preset sealing position relative to the sealing carrier when the conveying system stops.The sealing carrier has, in particular, at least one receptacle for a sealing head for receiving, especially for insertion, the sealing device. The sealing carrier is specifically designed to align the sealing device and the sealing position of the container. Preferably, the sealing carrier has several receptacles for receiving multiple, especially identical, sealing devices. The sealing devices can be arranged side-by-side with respect to the intended transport direction of the containers through the sealing station, particularly for containers transported by means of several parallel conveying systems of the filling and / or production plants, and / or one behind the other, particularly for containers transported by means of the same conveying system. The sealing devices can be individually or collectively controllable.The design according to the invention makes it possible to provide an advantageously robust and reliable sealing station which, in particular, is also advantageously simple and flexible to adapt to different container geometries.

[0025] Furthermore, a method for manufacturing a sealing device according to the invention is proposed. Preferably, in at least one step of the method, the ceramic heating unit is fixed to the seal holder. Particularly preferably, the ceramic heating unit is positively attached to the seal holder. In particular, the ceramic heating unit is inserted into a recess, especially the one already mentioned, and / or placed against a contact surface of the seal holder provided for this purpose. Preferably, the holder is arranged on the ceramic heating unit. In the position of the holder against the ceramic heating unit, the holder is preferably fixed to the seal holder, in particular by means of at least one screw. Preferably, the holder extends over several of the ceramic base bodies, in particular to simultaneously fix these ceramic base bodies.Optionally, an additional holder for the sealing device is used to secure ceramic bases that are not fixed by the holder. If the sealing tool is designed as an attachment, it can be fixed by the holder together with the ceramic heating unit, or attached to the ceramic heating unit after the heating unit has been fixed. The design according to the invention advantageously and reliably protects the heating element from damage. In particular, the ceramic heating element can continue to be used reliably even if the ceramic base is damaged, for example, by chipping. In particular, the risk of damage to the heating element can be advantageously minimized.

[0026] It is further proposed that in at least one process step, the at least one ceramic base body, in a cured state, is adapted to a predetermined container geometry by material removal. Preferably, the ceramic base body is produced from a cured ceramic preform with a standardized shape and / or size. The cured ceramic preform is transferred into the ceramic base body, for example, by milling, grinding, lapping, honing, drilling, or the like. In particular, the material thickness of the cured ceramic preform is reduced in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the heating element by material removal. The inventive design of the process advantageously allows the ceramic heating element to be precisely adapted to the container geometry.In particular, specific container geometries can be reproduced with advantageous precision. In particular, the volume of the ceramic base body and its associated heat capacity can be kept advantageously small. In particular, the ceramic base body can be heated and cooled advantageously quickly. In particular, a reliably fast temperature control of the ceramic heating element can be enabled. In particular, the ceramic heating unit can be advantageously adapted during a conversion of the sealing device. In particular, the number of new ceramic heating unit purchases can be advantageously kept low.

[0027] Furthermore, it is proposed that in at least one step of the process, in which the ceramic base body is in a cured state, a temperature sensor, in particular the one mentioned above, is inserted into a sensor material recess, in particular a bore, of the at least one cured ceramic base body. Preferably, the ceramic base body is provided with the sensor material recess, in particular by drilling, on a side of the ceramic base body facing away from the sealing tool. Particularly preferably, the sensor material recess is created on the same side of the ceramic base body on which the electrical connection is also located.For each ceramic base body, a single temperature sensor or several temperature sensors, particularly distributed across multiple sensor material recesses, can be arranged on the ceramic base body. It is particularly preferred that at least one temperature sensor be incorporated into each ceramic base body of the ceramic heating unit that encloses one of the heating conductors. After the temperature sensor has been inserted, the sensor material recess is preferably sealed with a curable compound. The design according to the invention allows the temperature sensor to be arranged at a location on the ceramic base body that can be advantageously selected flexibly. In particular, a suitable position for the temperature sensor can be determined only during the assembly of the ceramic heating unit.In particular, a number of temperature sensors within the ceramic heating unit can be adjusted, especially increased, at any time with advantageously little effort.

[0028] The sealing device, sealing station, and / or method according to the invention are not / should not be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the sealing device, sealing station, and / or method according to the invention may, to achieve a functionality described herein, comprise a different number of individual elements, components, units, and process steps than that specified herein. Furthermore, values ​​within the specified limits of the value ranges stated in this disclosure shall also be considered disclosed and freely usable. Drawings

[0029] Further advantages become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate eleven exemplary embodiments of the invention. The drawings, the descriptions, 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.

[0030] They show: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a sealing station according to the invention, Fig. 2 a schematic representation of a sealing device according to the invention, Fig. 3 a schematic representation of a ceramic heating unit of the sealing device according to the invention, Fig. 4 a schematic, perspective sectional view of the sealing device according to the invention, Fig. 5 a schematic flowchart of a method for manufacturing the sealing device according to the invention, Fig. 6 a schematic flowchart of a method according to the invention for operating the sealing device according to the invention, Fig. 7 a schematic, perspective sectional view of a further embodiment of a sealing device according to the invention with an insulating element, Fig. 8 a schematic representation of another embodiment of a sealing device according to the invention, Fig.Fig. 9 A schematic, perspective sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a sealing device according to the invention, in which a centering unit is simultaneously designed as a holder for a ceramic heating unit; Fig. 10 A schematic representation of the alternative embodiment of the sealing device according to the invention with a view of a sealing tool of this sealing device according to the invention; Fig. 11 A schematic representation of a further alternative embodiment of a sealing device according to the invention with a ceramic heating unit embedded in a sealing holder; Fig. 12 A schematic, perspective sectional view of the further alternative embodiment of the sealing device according to the invention; Fig. 13 A schematic representation of an alternative ceramic heating unit of a sealing device according to the invention.Fig. 14 a schematic representation of a further alternative ceramic heating unit of a sealing device according to the invention, Fig. 15 a schematic representation of a differently designed ceramic heating unit of a sealing device according to the invention, Fig. 16 a schematic, perspective sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the sealing device according to the invention and Fig. 17 the sealing device according to the invention made of . Figure 16 with an alternative arrangement of a temperature sensor in a schematic representation. Description of the exemplary implementations

[0031] Figure 1Figure 26a shows a sealing station. The sealing station 26a is intended, in particular, for a filling and / or production plant. The sealing station 26a comprises at least one sealing device 10a for sealing a container 12a. The container 12a is transported by a conveying system of the filling and / or production plant, preferably along a transport direction 62a, intermittently through the sealing station 26a, wherein the container 12a is stopped, in particular, at a sealing position within the sealing station 26a for the sealing of the container 12a to be carried out. Preferably, the sealing station 26a comprises several, here for example, eight, in particular identical, sealing devices 10a. The sealing devices 10a are arranged, in particular, parallel to the transport direction 62a of the container 12a through the sealing station 26a, in particular for the parallel sealing of several containers 12a.The sealing station 26a comprises at least one sealing carrier 28a for holding at least one sealing device 10a, preferably several, in particular all, sealing devices 10a of the sealing station 26a. The sealing station 26a comprises a sealing support 30a for supporting the container 12a, in particular several containers 12a simultaneously, during sealing. The sealing station 26a preferably has at least one operating mode in which the sealing is carried out fully automatically by the sealing station 26a. Optionally, the sealing station 26a comprises at least one input and / or output unit, in particular at least one display, for monitoring the sealing process and / or for adjusting a process parameter of the sealing station 26a by a user.

[0032] Figure 2Figure 1 shows a sectional view of the sealing device 10a, particularly in a plane perpendicular to the transport direction 62a. The sealing device 10a is, in particular, a sealing head. The sealing device 10a is designed for sealing the container 12a. The sealing device 10a is designed for sealing the container 12a by applying a container lid to a receiving unit of the container 12. The sealing device 10a comprises at least one sealing unit 14a for transmitting force and / or energy to the container 12a to produce a seal. The sealing device 10a, in particular the sealing unit 14a, comprises at least one sealing tool 34a. The sealing tool 34a forms an annular sealing zone for physical contact with the container 12a.The sealing device 10, in particular the sealing unit 14a, comprises at least one ceramic heating unit 36a for heating the sealing zone to produce a seal. The sealing device 10a, in particular the sealing unit 14a, comprises a seal holder 58a for receiving the ceramic heating unit 36a. The ceramic heating unit 36a forms the sealing tool 34a with the sealing zone in at least partial direct contact with the container 12a.

[0033] The sealing device 10a, in particular the sealing unit 14a, comprises at least one drive element 64a, in particular a servo motor. The drive element 64a is preferably mechanically, hydraulically, and / or pneumatically coupled to the seal holder 58a. The drive element 64a is designed to move the seal holder 58a together with the sealing tool 34a attached thereto along a sealing direction 44a of the sealing device 10a, in particular to bring the sealing tool 34a into physical contact with the container 12a. The sealing direction 44a is preferably at least substantially perpendicular to the transport direction 62a of the container 12a. The ceramic heating unit 36a is arranged, in particular, on a side of the seal holder 58a that faces away from the drive element 64a.

[0034] The sealing device 10a comprises at least one test unit 16a, which is at least partially integrated into the sealing unit 14a. The test unit 16a is designed to monitor the sealing quality of the container 12a sealed by the sealing unit 14a. The test unit 16a comprises at least one temperature sensor 18a for detecting a sealing temperature. The test unit 16a comprises at least one further temperature sensor 20a for spatially resolved detection of the sealing temperature. The temperature sensor 18a and / or the further temperature sensor 20a are preferably arranged on the ceramic heating unit 36a and / or on the sealing tool 34a. The test unit 16a comprises at least one pressure sensor 22a for detecting a sealing force and / or a sealing pressure. The test unit 16a comprises a pneumatic cylinder 24a in which the pressure sensor 22a is arranged.The pneumatic cylinder 24a is arranged, in particular, between the drive element 64a and the seal holder 58a. For example, the drive element 64a couples to a piston of the pneumatic cylinder 24a, wherein a cylinder housing of the pneumatic cylinder 24a, which receives the piston, is connected directly or indirectly to the seal holder 58a via a transmission unit 66a of the sealing unit 14a. Alternatively, the drive element 64a couples to the cylinder housing of the pneumatic cylinder 24a, and the piston of the pneumatic cylinder 24a couples directly or via the transmission unit 66a of the sealing unit 14a to the seal holder 58a. The pressure sensor 22a is arranged, in particular, in a supply line to the cylinder housing of the pneumatic cylinder 24a.The pressure sensor 22a is in particular arranged in a volume of the pneumatic cylinder 24a which is closed during sealing and is in particular intended for measuring a gas pressure inside the pneumatic cylinder 24a during sealing.

[0035] The sealing device 10a comprises a control unit 50a for controlling or regulating the temperature of the ceramic heating unit 36a. The control unit 50a is specifically designed to set or regulate the sealing temperature via the temperature of the ceramic heating unit 36a. The control unit 50a is specifically designed to control or regulate the drive element 64a. The control unit 50a is specifically designed to set or regulate the sealing force and / or the sealing pressure.

[0036] Figure 3Figure 3 shows the ceramic heating unit 36a. The ceramic heating unit 36a comprises a heating conductor (not shown in detail here) which, in a heating area of ​​the ceramic heating unit 36a, is at least substantially completely surrounded by a thermally conductive ceramic base body 40a of the ceramic heating unit 36a. The at least one ceramic base body 40a is made of silicon nitride or aluminum nitride. The heating conductor is preferably made of silicon nitride or aluminum nitride, which has been provided with an additive to increase its electrical conductivity relative to the ceramic base body 40a. The additive constitutes, in particular, less than 50%, preferably less than 25%, of the total mass of the heating conductor. The ceramic heating unit 36a preferably comprises electrical connections 52a, 54a, via which the heating conductor is electrically connected, in particular, to the control unit 50a.The electrical connections 52a, 54a run, in particular, at least substantially parallel to the sealing direction 44a. The at least one ceramic base body 40a forms the sealing tool 34a with the sealing zone in direct contact with the container 12a, at least partially. The sealing zone is, in particular, annular in shape. The electrical connections 52a, 54a are, in particular, arranged on a side of the ceramic base body 40a facing away from the sealing tool 34a.

[0037] The ceramic heating unit 36a comprises at least one further, here for example five further, ceramic base body 42a. The further ceramic base body 42a is formed separately from the ceramic base body 40a. The further ceramic base body 42a is, in particular, structurally identical to the ceramic base body 40a. The ceramic base body 40a and the further ceramic base body 42a each form, in particular, a partial segment of the sealing zone. The ceramic base body 40a and the further ceramic base body 42a are arranged in a plane perpendicular to a sealing direction 44a at a distance of at least substantially the same distance from a geometric center 48a of the ceramic heating unit 36a, in particular the annular sealing zone. The ceramic heating unit 36a comprises, in particular, a further heating conductor within the further ceramic base body 42a.The additional heating conductor is preferably formed separately from the heating conductor and is electrically connected, in particular via further electrical connections 72a, 74a of the ceramic heating unit 36a, to the control unit 50a. The further electrical connections 72a, 74a are preferably formed separately from the electrical connections 52a, 54a of the heating conductor within the sealing unit 14a. The control unit 50a is configured for the separate control or regulation of the temperature of the different ceramic base bodies 40a, 42a. The control unit 50a can comprise several independent current and / or voltage sources and / or switching elements for distributing an electrical current flow from a current and / or voltage source to the various electrical connections 52a, 54a, 72a, 74a.The additional electrical connections 72, 74a and the electrical connections 52a, 54a can be connected to the control unit 50a in an electrically isolated manner, or connected in parallel or in series, depending on the application. In particular, at least one of the temperature sensors 18a, 20a is assigned to each ceramic base body 40a, 42a that surrounds one of the heating conductors. In particular, the temperature sensor 18a is arranged in a sensor material recess of the ceramic base body 40a. In particular, the additional temperature sensor 20a is arranged in a sensor material recess of the additional ceramic base body 42a. The sensor material recesses are preferably arranged on the same side of the ceramic base bodies 40a, 42a as the respective electrical connections 52a, 54a, 72a, 74a.

[0038] Figure 4Figure 1 shows a sectional view of the sealing device 10a in a plane parallel to the sealing direction 44a. The seal holder 58a comprises, in particular, a plate-shaped base body, which preferably comprises more than 50%, and more particularly more than 75%, of the total volume of the seal holder 58a. The seal holder 58a is preferably made of metal, in particular stainless steel. The seal holder 58a preferably has a retaining structure 76a, which is provided, in particular, for a positive-locking reception of the ceramic heating unit 36a in a direction perpendicular to the sealing direction 44a. The retaining structure 76a projects, in particular, from the plate-shaped base body of the seal holder 58a. The retaining structure 76a is, for example, ring-shaped and surrounds the ceramic heating unit 36a in a plane perpendicular to the sealing direction 44a. The sealing device 10a preferably comprises a holder 78a.The holder 78a is specifically designed to fix the ceramic heating unit 36a to the seal holder 58a in a form-fitting manner in a direction parallel to the sealing direction 44a. For example, the holder 78a is designed as a retaining ring. The holder 78a is preferably made of metal, in particular stainless steel. The maximum transverse extent, in particular the outer diameter, of the holder 78a perpendicular to the sealing direction 44a is in particular smaller than the maximum transverse extent of the ceramic heating unit 36a. Preferably, the ceramic base bodies 40a, 42a of the ceramic heating unit 36a form a projection 80a, which is in particular spaced apart from the side of the respective ceramic base body 40a, 42a facing the sealing tool 34a and / or forming the sealing tool 34a.The projection 80a is arranged, in particular, on a side of the ceramic base body 40a, 42a facing the geometric center 48a of the ceramic heating unit 36a. Specifically, the projection 80a is arranged parallel to the sealing direction 44a between the seal holder 58a, in particular the plate-shaped base body of the seal holder 58a and / or a support structure of the seal holder 58a projecting from the plate-shaped base body, and the holder 78a, and is clamped in place. The holder 78a is fixed to the seal holder 58a, in particular by means of screws projecting through the seal holder 58a. The seal holder 58a preferably has recesses for connection material through which the electrical connections 52a, 54a, 72a, 74a and connections for the temperature sensors 18a, 20a are led from the ceramic heating unit 36a through the seal holder 58a.

[0039] The sealing device 10a comprises a centering unit 56a for securing the container 12a during a sealing process. The centering unit 56a is designed, in particular, as a curved disc. The centering unit 56a is arranged in a plane perpendicular to the sealing direction 44a, specifically within the ceramic heating unit 36a and, in particular, within the holder 78a. Specifically, the centering unit 56a is arranged concentrically with the ceramic heating unit 36a and, in particular, with the holder 78a. A curvature of the centering unit 56a is formed parallel to the centering unit 56a, specifically facing away from the seal holder 58a and, in particular, towards the container 12. The centering unit 56a is screwed to the seal holder 58a (see [reference]). Figure 8 ).

[0040] The transmission unit 66a comprises, for example, a rigid transmission rod 86a, which is designed in particular for the transmission of force and / or pressure from the drive element 64a via the pneumatic cylinder 24a to the seal holder 58a. The maximum longitudinal extent of the transmission rod 86a is arranged, in particular, at least substantially parallel to the sealing direction 44a. The transmission unit 66a specifically includes a conical extension 82a, which is arranged at an end of the transmission rod 86a facing away from the seal holder 58a. The conical extension 82a is preferably surrounded in a plane perpendicular to the sealing direction 44a by the cylinder housing of the pneumatic cylinder 24a. Preferably, the transmission unit 66a includes at least one spring 84a arranged around the transmission rod 86a, which acts on the conical extension 82a and on a bearing 88a of the transmission unit 66a.The bearing 88a is preferably designed for the insertion of the sealing device 10a into the sealing carrier 28a. Preferably, the transmission unit 66a comprises at least one further spring 90a arranged around the transmission rod 86a, which engages the seal holder 58a and a stop element 92a of the transmission rod 86a. The stop element 92a defines, in particular, a zero position of the transmission rod 86a, in which, in particular, no force and / or pressure is transmitted from the drive element 64a to the container 12a, even if the sealing tool 34a is in physical contact with the container 12a. Preferably, the transmission rod 86a is arranged at a distance from the seal holder 58a, at least in the zero position.

[0041] Figure 5Disclosing a method 60a for manufacturing the sealing device 10a, the method 60a preferably comprises an adaptation step 94a. In the adaptation step 94a, a pre-product, particularly a standardized one, of the ceramic heating unit 36a, especially the ceramic base bodies 40a, 42a, is preferably provided. In the pre-product, the ceramic base body 40a, 42a is present, in particular, in a state that has already been cured, especially by sintering and especially completely. In the at least one adaptation step 94a of the method 60a for manufacturing the sealing device 10a, the at least one ceramic base body 40a, 42a, in a cured state, is adapted to a predetermined container geometry of the container 12a by material removal.In particular, the material thickness of the pre-product is reduced in a direction perpendicular to the sealing direction 44a to a predetermined material thickness of the ceramic base body 40a, 42a in this direction. The predetermined material thickness is preferably equal to the width of a predetermined sealing surface of the container 12a.

[0042] Method 60a for manufacturing the sealing device 10a preferably comprises a sensor insertion step 96a. In sensor insertion step 96a of method 60a for manufacturing the sealing device 10a, at least one ceramic base body 40a, 42a is present in a cured state. In sensor insertion step 96a, at least one sensor material recess is created in the ceramic base body 40a, 42a, in particular by drilling. Alternatively, the sensor material recess is created in or before the adaptation step 94a in the ceramic base body 40a, 42a. In sensor insertion step 96a, the temperature sensor 18a, 20a is inserted into the sensor material recess, in particular a bore, of the at least one cured ceramic base body 40a, 42a.Optionally, after insertion of the temperature sensor 18a, 20a, the sensor material recess is filled and / or sealed with a curable material.

[0043] Method 60a for manufacturing the sealing device 10a comprises, in particular, an assembly step 98a. In assembly step 98a, the ceramic heating unit 36a is arranged on the sealing holder 58a, and in particular, positioned along the retaining structure 76a. Specifically, the individual ceramic base bodies 40a, 42a are arranged along at least one closed path, which runs in a plane perpendicular to the sealing direction 44a. Preferably, the ceramic base bodies 40a are arranged along the at least one closed path with only a small distance between them. This small distance preferably corresponds to the maximum expected thermal expansion of the ceramic base bodies 40a, 42a along the path at the sealing temperature, in particular including a safety factor. The ceramic heating unit 36a is secured to the sealing holder 58a, in particular by the retaining structure 78a.

[0044] Figure 6Figure 32a shows a method 32a for operating the sealing device 10a and / or a sealing station 26a. The method 32a for operating the sealing device 10a preferably comprises a detection step 100a. Detection step 100a is performed, in particular, during the sealing of the container 12a. During the sealing process performed by the sealing unit 14a, the test unit 16a detects at least one test parameter to determine the sealing quality. Detection step 100a can begin before sealing and / or continue beyond the end of the sealing process, in particular to acquire comparative values ​​for a test parameter detected during sealing. The test parameter is preferably configured as the sealing temperature of the ceramic heating unit 36a, which is detected, in particular, by the temperature sensors 18a, 20a of the test unit 16a.The test unit 16a preferably uses temperature sensors 18a and 20a to detect a specific sealing temperature for several, and in particular each, ceramic base body 40a and 42a. Preferably, the test unit 16a includes a processing unit (not shown in detail here) for evaluating the test parameter detected by the temperature sensors 18a and 20a. Preferably, the processing unit is designed to determine the sealing quality by comparing two values ​​of the test parameter, which are detected at at least two different measuring points assigned to the same container 12a. Alternatively or additionally, the processing unit is designed to evaluate a time course of the test parameter in order to determine the sealing quality. Preferably, the test unit 16a also detects a sealing pressure measured by the pressure sensor 22a as an additional or alternative test parameter.The comparison value and / or the test value of the respective test parameter can be recorded in particular as a single value, especially as a sample and / or time average, as a series of values ​​or as a quasi-continuous time progression.

[0045] The method 32a for operating the sealing device 10a preferably comprises an evaluation step 102a. Evaluation step 102a is performed, in particular, by a processing unit of the test unit 16a. Optionally, the processing unit processes raw data acquired by the temperature sensors 18a, 20a and / or the pressure sensor 22a with respect to the test parameter, for example by derivation, integration, averaging, subtraction, or the like. The processing unit, for example, checks for a temperature drop of the ceramic base bodies 40a, 42a during contact with the container 12a in order to determine the sealing quality. The processing unit compares the test parameter(s), for example, with a target value for the test parameter.In evaluation step 102a, the processing unit determines the sealing quality based on a comparison of two values ​​of the test parameter, which are recorded at at least two different measuring points assigned to the same container 12a. Specifically, the processing unit compares a temperature drop of the ceramic base body 40a with a temperature drop of the other ceramic base body 42a. The processing unit concludes that the sealing quality is defective if the test parameters for the different measuring points differ from each other by more than one tolerance value, which is particularly application-dependent.

[0046] In evaluation step 102a, the processing unit determines the sealing quality of container 12a as a function of a test parameter value of another container. This other container can be a container that is sealed simultaneously with container 12a by another sealing device of sealing station 26a, or a container that was sealed by sealing device 10a before container 12a. In particular, the processing unit concludes that the sealing quality is defective if the test parameters for the different containers 12a differ from each other by more than one tolerance value, which is particularly application-dependent. Preferably, the processing unit logs the test parameter(s) for further evaluation, at least in the case of defective sealing quality.In particular, the processing unit uses the recorded test parameters, for example, based on statistical frequency, a digital model of the sealing device 10a, trend curves of the test parameter(s), or similar factors, to determine a possible source of error in the sealing device 10a and / or in an upstream station of the filling and / or production plant. Possible sources of error, which the processing unit distinguishes between, include, in particular, a defect within the sealing device 10a, for example, a defect in one of the temperature sensors 18a, 20a and / or a defect in one of the heating elements, incorrect alignment of a container lid relative to a receiving unit of the container 12a, contamination of the container 12a, a kink in the container lid of the container 12, or similar issues.Criteria for distinguishing the sources of error can be explicitly stored as comparison values ​​in a memory of the computing unit and / or created by the computing unit through machine learning.

[0047] Method 32a for operating the sealing device 10a preferably comprises an output step 104a. In particular, the test parameter and / or the sealing quality is output in output step 104a. Preferably, the computing unit is designed as a component of the control unit 50a or has at least a data connection with it, in particular for forwarding the unprocessed test parameter and / or an instruction derived from the test parameter for a modified control of the sealing unit 14a. Additionally or alternatively, in output step 104a, the computing unit outputs the determined sealing quality to a user, for example via the input and / or output unit of the sealing station 26a and / or via an external output device, such as a smartphone, a tablet, a display in a central plant control system of the filling and / or production plant, or the like.Optionally, the computing unit is connected to a sorting station of the filling and / or production plant via data technology, in particular to automatically sort out containers with defective sealing quality.

[0048] In the Figures 7 to 17 Further embodiments of the invention are 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 6 , can be referenced. To distinguish the embodiments, the letter a is the reference numeral of the embodiment in the Figures 1 to 6 recreated. In the exemplary embodiments of the Figures 7 to 17 The letter a is replaced by the letters b to j.

[0049] Figure 7Figure 1 shows a sealing device 10b. The sealing device 10b is designed for sealing a container (not shown in detail here). The sealing device 10b comprises at least one sealing unit 14b for transferring force and / or energy to the container to produce a seal. The sealing device 10b, in particular the sealing unit 14b, comprises at least one sealing tool 34b that forms an annular sealing zone for physical contact with the container. The sealing device 10b, in particular the sealing unit 14b, comprises at least one ceramic heating unit 36b for heating the sealing zone to produce a seal. The ceramic heating unit 36b comprises a heating conductor (not shown in detail here) which in a heating area of ​​the ceramic heating unit 36b is at least substantially completely surrounded by a heat-conducting ceramic base body 40b, 42b of the ceramic heating unit 36b.The sealing device 10b comprises at least one test unit 16b, at least partially integrated into the sealing unit 14b, for monitoring the sealing quality of the container sealed by the sealing unit 14b. The sealing device 10b particularly comprises an insulating element 106b, which is preferably thermally insulating. The insulating element 106b is preferably made of a thermally insulating material. Preferably, the insulating element 106b is arranged, particularly in a direction parallel to a sealing direction 44b of the sealing device 10b, between the ceramic heating unit 36b and a seal holder 58b of the sealing device 10b. The insulating element 106b is preferably ring-shaped. Preferably, the insulating element 106b is additionally arranged, or an additional insulating element of the sealing device 10b is arranged, between the ceramic heating unit 36b and a retaining structure 76b of the seal holder 58b.Regarding further features of the sealing device 10b, reference should be made to the . Figures 1 to 6 and their descriptions are referenced.

[0050] Figure 8Figure 1 shows a sealing device 10c. The sealing device 10c is designed for sealing a container (not shown in detail here). The sealing device 10c comprises at least one sealing unit 14c for transferring force and / or energy to the container to produce a seal. The sealing device 10c, in particular the sealing unit 14c, comprises at least one sealing tool 34c that forms an annular sealing zone for physical contact with the container. The sealing device 10c, in particular the sealing unit 14c, comprises at least one ceramic heating unit 36c for heating the sealing zone to produce a seal. The ceramic heating unit 36c comprises a heating conductor (not shown in detail here) which in a heating area of ​​the ceramic heating unit 36c is at least substantially completely surrounded by a heat-conducting ceramic base body 40c, 42c of the ceramic heating unit 36c.The sealing device 10c comprises at least one test unit 16c, at least partially integrated into the sealing unit 14c, for monitoring the sealing quality of the container sealed by the sealing unit 14c. The ceramic heating unit 36c is freely arranged on an outer surface pointing away from a geometric center point of the ceramic heating unit 36c on a seal holder 58c of the sealing device 10c. In particular, the ceramic heating unit 36a is held in a direction perpendicular to a sealing direction 44c of the sealing device 10c exclusively by a holder 78c of the sealing device 10c, which in particular surrounds a projection of the ceramic base body 40c, 42c pointing away from the outer surface. Regarding further features of the sealing device 10c, reference is made to the... Figures 1 to 7 and their descriptions are referenced.

[0051] Figure 9 and 10Figure 1 shows a sealing device 10d. The sealing device 10d is designed for sealing a container (not shown in detail here). The sealing device 10d comprises at least one sealing unit 14d for transferring force and / or energy to the container to produce a seal. The sealing device 10d, in particular the sealing unit 14d, comprises at least one sealing tool 34d that forms an annular sealing zone for physical contact with the container. The sealing device 10d, in particular the sealing unit 14d, comprises at least one ceramic heating unit 36d for heating the sealing zone to produce a seal. The ceramic heating unit 36d comprises a heating conductor (not shown in detail here) which in a heating area of ​​the ceramic heating unit 36d is at least substantially completely surrounded by a heat-conducting ceramic base body 40d, 42d of the ceramic heating unit 36d.The sealing device 10d comprises at least one test unit 16d, at least partially integrated into the sealing unit 14d, for monitoring the sealing quality of the container sealed by the sealing unit 14d. The sealing device 10d particularly comprises a holder 78d for fixing the ceramic heating unit 36d to a seal holder 58d of the sealing device 10d. The sealing device 10d preferably comprises a centering unit 56d. The centering unit 56d particularly forms the holder 78d. The centering unit 56d particularly extends over an entire material recess of the ceramic heating unit 36d. The centering unit 56d is particularly arranged in a direction parallel to a sealing direction 44d of the sealing device 10d, overlapping the ceramic heating unit 36d. The ceramic heating unit 36d is positively fitted between the centering unit 56d and the seal holder 58d.In particular, a projection 80d of the ceramic base body 40d, 42d is arranged in the direction parallel to the sealing direction 44d of the sealing device 10d between a seal holder 58d of the sealing device 10d and the centering unit 56d. For further features of the sealing device 10d, see the following. Figures 1 to 8 and their description was pointed out.

[0052] Figure 11Figure 1 shows a sealing device 10e. The sealing device 10e is designed for sealing a container 12e. The sealing device 10e comprises at least one sealing unit 14e for transmitting force and / or energy to the container 12e to produce a seal. The sealing device 10e, in particular the sealing unit 14e, comprises at least one sealing tool 34e that forms an annular sealing zone for physical contact with the container 12e. The sealing device 10e, in particular the sealing unit 14e, comprises at least one ceramic heating unit 36e for heating the sealing zone to produce a seal. The ceramic heating unit 36e comprises a heating conductor (not shown in detail here) which in a heating area of ​​the ceramic heating unit 36e is at least substantially completely surrounded by a heat-conducting ceramic base body 40e of the ceramic heating unit 36e.The sealing device 10e comprises at least one test unit 16e, at least partially integrated into the sealing unit 14e, for monitoring the sealing quality of the container 12e sealed by the sealing unit 14e. The sealing tool 34e is designed as an attachment that is arranged, in particular reversibly, on the ceramic base body 40e. The sealing tool 34e is made of metal, in particular stainless steel. The sealing tool 34e is preferably screwed onto a sealing holder 58e of the sealing device 10e. Alternatively, the sealing device 10e comprises a holder (not shown here) which is screwed onto the sealing holder 58e and positively locks the sealing tool 34e onto the ceramic heating unit 36e. For further features of the sealing device 10e, see [reference to be added]. Figures 1 to 10 and their description was pointed out.

[0053] Figure 12Figure 1 shows a sealing device 10f. The sealing device 10f is designed for sealing a container (not shown in detail here). The sealing device 10f comprises at least one sealing unit 14f for transferring force and / or energy to the container to produce a seal. The sealing device 10f, in particular the sealing unit 14f, comprises at least one sealing tool 34f that forms an annular sealing zone for physical contact with the container. The sealing device 10f, in particular the sealing unit 14f, comprises at least one ceramic heating unit 36f for heating the sealing zone to produce a seal. The ceramic heating unit 36f comprises a heating conductor (not shown in detail here) which in a heating area of ​​the ceramic heating unit 36f is at least substantially completely surrounded by a heat-conducting ceramic base body 40f of the ceramic heating unit 36f.The sealing device 10f comprises at least one test unit 16f, at least partially integrated into the sealing unit 14f, for monitoring the sealing quality of the container sealed by the sealing unit 14f. The ceramic heating unit 36f is arranged, in particular, within a seal holder 58f of the sealing device. Specifically, a side of the seal holder 58f facing away from the sealing tool 34f has a recess in which the ceramic heating unit 36f is inserted. The sealing device 10f comprises, in particular, a holder 78f which positively locks the ceramic heating unit 36f within the seal holder 58f, specifically within the recess. The holder 78f is preferably arranged on the side of the seal holder 58f facing away from the sealing tool 34f.Preferably, the holder 78f engages in the seal holder 58f, in particular in the recess, to fix the ceramic heating unit 36f within the seal holder 58f, particularly at the bottom of the recess. The seal holder 58f forms the sealing tool 34f with the sealing zone. For further features of the sealing device 10f, see below. Figures 1 to 11 and their description was pointed out.

[0054] Figure 13Figure 3 shows a ceramic heating unit 36g for a sealing device as described in the preceding sections. The ceramic heating unit 36g comprises a heating conductor (not shown in detail here) which, in a heating area of ​​the ceramic heating unit 36g, is at least substantially completely surrounded by a thermally conductive ceramic base body 40g, 42g of the ceramic heating unit 36g. At least one electrical connection, in particular all electrical connections, 52g, 54g, 72g, 74g of the ceramic heating unit 36g for the heating conductor runs transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to a sealing direction 44g of the sealing device. The electrical connections 52g, 54g, 72g, 74g are in particular aligned with a central axis of the ceramic heating unit 36g and / or the sealing device which runs parallel to the sealing direction 44g and passes through a geometric center 48g of the ceramic heating unit 36g.Preferably, the connections for temperature sensors 18g, 20g of the sealing device, which are arranged in or on the ceramic base body 40g, 42g, are arranged and / or oriented analogously. Regarding further features of the ceramic heating unit 36g and its arrangement in a sealing device, reference is made to the following. Figures 1 to 12 and their description was pointed out.

[0055] Figure 14Figure 1 shows a ceramic heating unit 36h for a sealing device as described in the preceding sections. The ceramic heating unit 36h comprises a heating conductor (not shown in detail here) which, in a heating area of ​​the ceramic heating unit 36h, is at least substantially completely surrounded by a thermally conductive ceramic base body 40h of the ceramic heating unit 36h. In particular, the ceramic base body 40h is configured as a closed ring. In particular, the ceramic base body 40h is the only ceramic base body 40h of the ceramic heating unit 36h. Regarding further features of the ceramic heating unit 36h and its arrangement in a sealing device, reference is made to the following: Figures 1 to 13 and their description was pointed out.

[0056] Figure 15Figure 1 shows a ceramic heating unit 36i for a sealing device as described in the preceding sections. The ceramic heating unit 36i comprises a heating conductor (not shown in detail here) which, in a heating area of ​​the ceramic heating unit 36i, is at least substantially completely surrounded by a thermally conductive ceramic base body 40i of the ceramic heating unit 36i. The ceramic heating unit 36i comprises at least one additional ceramic base body 46i. The additional ceramic base body 46i is formed separately from the ceramic base body 40i. The ceramic base body 40i and the additional ceramic base body 46i are arranged on different, closed paths around a geometric center point 48i of the ceramic heating unit 36i, in particular an annular sealing zone of the sealing device.The ceramic base body 40i and the additional ceramic base body 46i are designed, in particular, as rings or ring segments arranged concentrically with respect to the geometric center 48i. Regarding further features of the ceramic heating unit 36i and its arrangement in a sealing device, reference is made to the following. Figures 1 to 14 and their description was pointed out.

[0057] Figure 16Figure 1 shows a sectional view of a sealing device 10j, particularly one with an alternative configuration. The sealing device 10j is designed for sealing a container (not shown in detail here). The sealing device 10j comprises at least one sealing unit 14j for transferring force and / or energy to the container to produce a seal. The sealing device 10j, particularly the sealing unit 14j, comprises at least one sealing tool 34j that forms a sealing zone, particularly annular, for physical contact with the container. The sealing device 10j, particularly the sealing unit 14j, comprises at least one ceramic heating unit 36j for heating the sealing zone to produce a seal.The ceramic heating unit 36j comprises a heating conductor 70j, which in a heating area of ​​the ceramic heating unit 36j is at least substantially completely surrounded by a heat-conducting ceramic base body 40j of the ceramic heating unit 36j.

[0058] The sealing device 10j has at least one test unit 16j, at least partially integrated into the sealing unit 14j, for monitoring the sealing quality of the container sealed by the sealing unit 14j. The test unit 16j comprises at least one temperature sensor 18j, in particular a plurality of temperature sensors 18j, for detecting a sealing temperature. The temperature sensor 18j is arranged in a sensor material recess of the sealing tool 34j of the sealing unit 14j, wherein the sensor material recess of the sealing tool 34j is located in the vicinity of the ceramic heating unit 36j. Preferably, the sensor material recess is located outside the ceramic base body 40j of the ceramic heating unit 36j. The sensor material recess is preferably located directly in the sealing tool 34j.Preferably, the sensor material recess is arranged laterally offset from the ceramic heating unit 36j, and more preferably laterally offset from the ceramic base body 40j. Preferably, the sensor material recess, viewed along a direction extending at least substantially perpendicular to a sealing direction 44j of the sealing device 10j, is arranged within a region bounded by the ceramic base body 40j. Preferably, the sensor material recess, viewed along a direction extending at least substantially perpendicular to a sealing direction 44j of the sealing device 10j, has a maximum distance relative to an outer surface of the ceramic base body 40j facing the sensor material recess, in particular the temperature sensor 18j arranged therein, of less than 25 mm, preferably less than 10 mm, and most preferably less than 8 mm.

[0059] The temperature sensor 18j is arranged in a state within the sensor material recess, viewed along the direction extending at least substantially perpendicular to a sealing direction 44j of the sealing device 10j, within the area bounded by the ceramic base body 40j. Preferably, the temperature sensor 18j is arranged in the sensor material recess of the sealing tool 34j such that the temperature sensor 18j, in particular a temperature sensing area of ​​the temperature sensor 18j, such as a temperature sensor tip or the like, is spaced at a distance of, in particular, less than 10 mm, preferably less than 5 mm, and most preferably less than 2 mm from a sealing surface, in particular an outer sealing surface, of the sealing tool or a contact plane of the sealing unit 14j.

[0060] The test unit 16j preferably comprises at least one sealing unit 38j for sealing at least one receiving chamber of the sealing unit 14j, in which at least the temperature sensor 18j is arranged. The receiving chamber of the sealing unit 14j is preferably delimited by a seal holder 58j of the sealing unit 14j and the sealing tool 34j. Preferably, at least the ceramic base body 40j and the temperature sensor 18j are arranged in the receiving chamber. Preferably, the sealing unit 38j comprises at least one, in particular ceramic, feedthrough element 108j for the passage of electrical conductors, in particular of the heating unit 36j or the temperature sensor 18j. The sealing unit 38j comprises at least one cable guide element 110j, such as a cable grommet or the like, which is arranged in particular on the feedthrough element 108j., for guiding a line of the heating unit 36j and / or the temperature sensor 18j arranged in the feedthrough element 108j out of the feedthrough element 108j, wherein the cable guide element 110j preferably has a sealing or strain relief function. The sealing unit preferably comprises at least one sealing element 112j, which is arranged at an interface between the seal holder 58j and the sealing tool 34j, in particular for sealing the receiving space delimited by the seal holder 58j and the sealing tool 34j. Preferably, the sealing unit 38j comprises a plurality of sealing elements 112j, which are arranged at the interface between the seal holder 58j and the sealing tool 34j. Regarding further features of the sealing device 10j, reference is made to the . Figures 1 to 15 and their description was pointed out.

[0061] Figure 17 shows an alternative arrangement of the sensor material recess of the sealing device 10j. Figure 16, which is why the reference symbols in Figure 17 are marked with an apostrophe. Basically, the sealing device 10j' has a connection to the sealing device 10j. Figure 16An analogous embodiment is described, with a key difference being the arrangement of the sensor material recess of the sealing tool 34j'. The sensor material recess of the sealing tool 34j' is located below the ceramic base body 40j' when viewed along the sealing direction 44j'. Preferably, the ceramic base body 40j' includes a sensor material recess in which the temperature sensor 18j' is arranged. The sensor material recess of the ceramic base body 40j' is preferably aligned with the sensor material recess of the sealing tool 34j', particularly along the sealing direction 44j'. Preferably, the temperature sensor 18j' is located in the sensor material recess of the sealing tool 34j' and in the sensor material recess of the ceramic base body 40j'. The temperature sensor 18j' is partially located in the ceramic base body 40j' and partially in the sealing tool 34j'.The temperature sensor 18j' preferably extends completely through the ceramic base body 40j' into the sealing tool 34j'. For further features of the sealing device 10j', see below. Figures 1 to 16 and their description was pointed out.

Claims

1. A sealing device, in paticular a sealing head, for sealing a container (12a; 12e), comprising at least one sealing tool (34a; 34b; 34c; 34d; 34e; 34f; 34g; 34h; 34i), which forms a ring-shaped sealing zone for a physical contact with the container (12a; 12e), and at least one ceramic heating unit (36a; 36b; 36c; 36d; 36e; 36f; 36g; 36h; 36i) for heating the sealing zone which generates a sealing, characterized in that the ceramic heating unit (36a; 36b; 36c; 36d; 36e; 36f; 36g; 36h; 36i) comprises a heating conductor, which is in a heating region of the ceramic heating unit (36a; 36b; 36c; 36d; 36e; 36f; 36g; 36h; 36i) surrounded at least substantially completely by a thermally conductive ceramic base body (40a, 42a; 40b, 42b; 40c, 42c; 40d, 42d; 40e, 42e; 40f, 42f; 40g, 42g; 40h; 40i, 46i) of the ceramic heating unit (36a; 36b; 36c; 36d; 36e; 36f; 36g; 36h; 36i).

2. The sealing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the ceramic heating unit (36a; 36b; 36c; 36d; 36e; 36f; 36g) comprises at least one further ceramic base body (42a; 42b; 42c; 42d; 42e; 42f; 42g) which is realized separately from the ceramic base body (40a; 40b; 40c; 40d; 40e; 40f; 40g), wherein, in a plane that is perpendicular to a sealing direction (44a; 44b; 44c; 44d; 44e; 44f; 44g), the ceramic base body (40a; 40b; 40c; 40d; 40e; 40f; 40g) and the further ceramic base body (42a; 42b; 42c; 42d; 42e; 42f; 42g) are arranged at least substantially at equal distances from a geometric center (48a; 48g) of the ceramic heating unit (36a; 36b; 36c; 36d; 36e; 36f; 36g), in particular of the ring-shaped sealing zone.

3. The sealing device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the ceramic heating unit (36i) comprises at least one additional ceramic base body (46i), which is realized separately from the ceramic base body (40i), wherein the ceramic base body (40i) and the additional ceramic base body (46i) are arranged on different closed paths around a geometric center (48i) of the ceramic heating unit (36i), in particular of the ring-shaped sealing zone.

4. The sealing device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized by a control or regulation unit (50a; 50e) for a separate controlling or regulation of a temperature of the different ceramic base bodies (40a, 42a; 40b, 42b; 40c, 42c; 40d, 42d; 40e, 42e; 40f, 42f; 40g, 42g; 40h; 40i, 46i).

5. The sealing device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one electrical connection (52g, 54g) of the ceramic heating unit (36g) for the heating conductor extends transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to a sealing direction (44g).

6. The sealing device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one ceramic base body (40a, 42a; 40b, 42b; 40c, 42c; 40d, 42d) at least partially forms the sealing tool (34a; 34b; 34c; 34d) with the sealing zone for a direct contact with the container (12a).

7. The sealing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the sealing tool (34e) is configured as an attachment, which is, in particular reversibly, arranged at the ceramic base body (40e, 42e).

8. The sealing device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by a centering unit (56d) for securing the container during a sealing process and a sealing holder (58d) for an accommodation of the ceramic heating unit (36d), the ceramic heating unit (36d) being arranged in a form-fitting manner between the centering unit (56d) and the sealing holder (58d).

9. The sealing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by a sealing holder (58f) for accommodating the ceramic heating unit (36f), wherein the sealing holder (58f) forms the sealing tool (34f) with the sealing zone.

10. The sealing device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one ceramic base body (40a, 42a; 40b, 42b; 40c, 42c; 40d, 42d; 40e, 42e; 40f, 42f; 40g, 42g; 40h; 40i, 46i) is made of silicon nitride or aluminium nitride.

11. A sealing station, in particular for a filling and / or production installation, with at least one sealing carrier (28a) for supporting at least one sealing device, in particular a plurality of sealing devices, with at least one sealing device according to any one of the preceding claims and with at least one sealing support (30a) for supporting the container (12a), in particular a plurality of containers, during the sealing.

12. A method for producing a sealing device according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that in at least one method step, in a hardened state of the ceramic base body (40a, 42a; 40b, 42b; 40c, 42c; 40d, 42d; 40e, 42e; 40f, 42f; 40g, 42g; 40h; 40i, 46i), the at least one ceramic base body (40a, 42a; 40b, 42b; 40c, 42c; 40d, 42d; 40e, 42e; 40f, 42f; 40g, 42g; 40h; 40i, 46i) is adapted to a designated container geometry by material removal.

14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that in at least one method step, in which the at least one ceramic base body (40a, 42a; 40b, 42b; 40c, 42c; 40d, 42d; 40e, 42e; 40f, 42f; 40g, 42g; 40h; 40i, 46i) is present in a hardened state of the ceramic base body (40a, 42a; 40b, 42b; 40c, 42c; 40d, 42d; 40e, 42e; 40f, 42f; 40g, 42g; 40h; 40i, 46i), a temperature sensor (18a, 20a; 18b, 20b; 18c, 20c; 18d, 20d; 18e, 20e; 18f, 20f; 18g, 20g; 18h; 18i, 20i) is inserted into a sensor material recess, in particular a bore, of the at least one hardened ceramic base body (40a, 42a; 40b, 42b; 40c, 42c; 40d, 42d; 40e, 42e; 40f, 42f; 40g, 42g; 40h; 40i, 46i).