System for filling and closing cans under hygienic conditions

Abstract

The invention relates to a system (1) for filling and closing cans (2) under hygienic conditions, comprising a hygienic compartment (3) and an inlet opening (30) for material to be filled, wherein the inlet opening (30) is formed at the hygienic compartment (3). When used as intended, one or more cans (2) can be assigned to the hygienic compartment (3) in each case so that the hygienic compartment can be moved together with the can(s) (2) in the system (1). The system (1) comprises a folding device (7). The folding device (7) further comprises a lid holder (71) and folding rollers (72), wherein a filling tube (73) for filling the can (2) can be guided through, in particular is guided through, the lid holder (71). A platform (31) is arranged in the hygienic compartment (3), on which platform a can (2) can be placed, and wherein, when used as intended, the platform (31) can be raised together with the can (2) in the direction of the inlet opening (30) for the material to be filled and the hygienic compartment (3) can be closed using a casing (32), which is arranged around the platform (31), and a head plate (33). The casing (32) can be raised in the direction of the inlet opening (30) to close the hygienic compartment (3) to the head plate (33) or the casing (32) is attached to the head plate (33) in such a way that the platform (31) can be raised in the casing (32).

Description

[0001] System for filling and closing cans under hygienic conditions

[0002] The invention relates to a system for filling and closing cans under hygienic conditions, according to the preamble of the independent claims.

[0003] Various systems for filling and / or closing containers are known from the state of the art. The purpose of these systems is to automatically fill and close a large number of containers. A particular challenge is to fill and close cans in the shortest possible time, under the highest hygienic conditions, and using a robust and safe system.

[0004] From the patent specification WO 2011 / 029609 a system for the sterile filling of products, in particular beverages into bottles or similar containers is known. For this purpose containers are introduced into an enclosure which forms a sterile room. The enclosure comprises both a device for filling the containers and a device for closing the containers. In a first step the containers are filled with the corresponding beverage and then in a second step they are transferred to the closing device via a container transfer device. This procedure is time-consuming and causes a lot of effort and expense in order to convert the corresponding room into a sterile environment.

[0005] Furthermore, document DE 197 39 326 discloses a device for treating beverage containers. During treatment, the beverage containers are enclosed in a housing that is kept under sterile conditions. For this purpose, the beverage containers on a conveyor belt are separated from one another by gates that form an enclosed space under sterile conditions when the beverage containers enter the device. A disadvantage of this device is that the conveyor belt must be stopped for the duration of the treatment.

[0006] A device for closing containers is known from DE 44 24 098. As the container moves along the conveyor track, the closure cap is fed to the container mouth, so that an access gap forms between the container mouth and the closure cap. This access gap forms a treatment zone. In the treatment zone, a sterile treatment is carried out in the area of ​​the container mouth before the closing process. In this case, only the closing process of the containers takes place under sterile conditions. This has the disadvantage that the overall degree of sterilization during the filling process is not particularly high and, under certain circumstances, the shelf life of the contents is not very long.

[0007] US 2695743 A describes a machine for filling containers with liquids under counterpressure. The machine comprises filling heads and a chamber whose open end receives the container. The backpressure is created by a compressed gas, which also supports the valve operation within the head, while provisions are made for sterilizing the crown caps or other closures. The closures and containers are kept in a sterile atmosphere until the capping operations are completed.

[0008] US 3356510 A discloses a device for closing liquid containers. For this purpose, a chamber accommodates at least part of a container with an open mouth and fills it with the appropriate liquid under counterpressure. The container is then closed with a lid by means of a closing head located in the chamber.

[0009] US 2885845 A describes a device for sterilizing containers and closing them under sterile conditions. For this purpose, a cylinder that is open at the bottom is closed with a liftable lifting plate. The closed space is first sterilized with hot gases before the desired filler is fed into the container from a reservoir. A crimping head is then lowered into the closed container to close the container. The filled and closed container is then removed at an unloading station.

[0010] US 2972214 A shows a system for the aseptic closing of bottles and other containers which have been filled with a sterilized liquid.

[0011] EP3757024 shows a system for filling and closing cans under hygienic conditions.

[0012] It is the object of the present invention to create a system for filling and closing cans which avoids the disadvantages of the prior art or improves the prior art and in particular to create a system and a method which are robust and easy to use and which fills and closes beverage cans in the shortest possible time and under the highest hygienic conditions.

[0013] This object is achieved by a system for filling and closing cans according to the independent claims. According to the invention, the system for filling and closing cans under hygienic conditions comprises a hygienic compartment and an inlet opening for a filling material, wherein the inlet opening is formed on the hygienic compartment. When used as intended, one or more cans can be assigned to the hygienic compartment, and the hygienic compartment can be moved together with the can(s) in the system.

[0014] According to a first embodiment of the invention, a folding device is arranged in the hygienic compartment. The folding device comprises a lid holder and folding rollers. A filling tube can be passed through the lid holder for filling the can, in particular, a filling tube is passed through it.

[0015] In this context, closing a can means at least placing a can lid on the can. Holding the lid down on the can or connecting the can lid to the can using common joining techniques, preferably by folding, ensures that the can remains closed for further processing.

[0016] The cans to be filled and sealed in this system are cans filled with a liquid and / or solid product. These are preferably beverage cans filled with a liquid product, especially beverages.

[0017] A hygienic compartment is defined as a space that is closed off from the environment and is maintained under hygienic conditions. Hygienic conditions are defined as conditions that correspond to at least hygiene class I as classified according to VDMA (No. 2 / 2000, 3rd edition 2016), but preferably hygiene class III or higher as classified according to VDMA No. 2 / 2000, 3rd edition 2016).

[0018] The lid holder can pick up the lid using a pick-up mechanism and transport the lid to the can. The pick-up mechanism can be a suction mechanism, a magnetic mechanism, or a guide system through which the lid is moved.

[0019] The advantages of this system are that cans are filled and sealed in a way that ensures a long shelf life, while simultaneously enabling very time-efficient filling and sealing. Furthermore, pressure conditions can be optimized under these conditions to enable rapid filling and lid application, even with foaming and dusty materials. An overpressure of up to 65 bar is used, preferably between 0 and 40 bar. This system is also very robust and easy to use.

[0020] Preferably, the filling tube is arranged movably in the folding device, in particular in the lid holder.

[0021] This has the advantage of an economical and space-saving system design, but at the same time allows for quick filling and subsequent cleaning of the filling pipe, which in turn results in an optimization of the hygienic conditions.

[0022] Preferably, the filling tube comprises a steering device in an end region at the filling tube outlet. The steering device can be a device that divides the filling material flow and ensures that the filling material has a laminar flow with reduced turbulence.

[0023] Steering devices can be : gratings of different designs, several substantially parallel tubes, rotating elements such as rotors, pumps, turbines, etc .

[0024] In this case, a turbulence-reduced laminar flow means that foaming of liquids is reduced to a minimum.

[0025] The advantage of such a steering device is that the filling material is subjected to a laminar flow, thus avoiding turbulences that slow down the filling process, can cause the filling material to foam (e.g. beer) and can further contaminate the hygienic compartment because the filling material splashes out of the can and requires additional cleaning steps.

[0026] The steering device is preferably designed in the form of a static steering device. Tubes or grids are particularly suitable as static steering devices.

[0027] Static steering devices have the advantage that they are simple components that are easy to install and easy to maintain.

[0028] The steering device is preferably designed as a movable steering device. Rotors, turbines, or pumps are particularly suitable as movable steering devices. Movable steering devices have the advantage that they can quickly and sustainably convert existing turbulent flows into laminar flows.

[0029] Preferably, the filling pipe comprises one or more shut-off devices and / or dosing devices.

[0030] Shut-off and / or metering devices can be designed in different versions for different purposes. Shut-off and / or metering devices can, in particular, be valves.

[0031] The advantage of a filling pipe containing a shut-off device is that the shut-off devices regulate the flow of filling material in the filling pipe.

[0032] Preferably, one of the shut-off devices is arranged at an end of the filling tube facing the can during normal use, in order to open and close the filling tube.

[0033] Using additional shut-off devices, you can select whether filling material, cleaning fluids, or inert gases (e.g., noble gases, and to a certain extent, CO2 or N2, etc.) are passed through the filling tube. After filling a can, the filling tube can be blown out to remove any liquid residue, ensuring that almost all liquid residues reach the can. If the shut-off device is located at the lower end of the filling tube, blowing out the filling tube is not absolutely necessary.

[0034] Shut-off devices for opening or closing can include pressure relief valves, pressure control valves, switching valves, load-holding valves, gate valves, butterfly valves, ball valves, etc. The advantage of such a shut-off device is that it regulates whether or not the contents flow into the can. This prevents the can from overfilling.

[0035] Preferably, the filling tube comprises one or more shut-off devices or a feed element. One of the shut-off devices or the feed element is arranged at an end of the filling tube facing away from the can during normal use, in order to open and close the filling tube.

[0036] Shut-off devices for opening or closing can be pressure relief valves, pressure control valves, switching valves, load-holding valves, etc. A feed element can be, for example, a hose, a pipe, a line, a screw feeder, etc.

[0037] The advantage of such a shut-off device or a feed element is that it regulates whether, how quickly and how much filling material can flow into the filling pipe or not.

[0038] Preferably, the shut-off device or feed element arranged at an end of the filling tube facing away from the can during intended use is designed such that solids (for example, powder), liquids, and / or gases can be introduced. The solids, liquids, and / or gases are, in particular, filling materials, cleaning agents, or disinfectants.

[0039] Examples of filling materials are beverages, CO2, N2, protective gases (e.g. noble gases), etc. Examples of cleaning agents are liquid cleaners, inert gases, steam, acids, alkalis, disinfectants, foaming agents, etc. Liquids can be introduced at temperatures < 15 ° C up to close to the freezing point of the liquid and also at temperatures up to the boiling point of the liquid (e.g. steam at up to 200 ° C).

[0040] The fact that the shut-off device or feed element is designed in such a way that liquids and / or gases can be introduced and in particular are filling materials or cleaning agents is particularly advantageous because this means that the can is filled under optimized hygienic conditions.

[0041] The filling tube preferably comprises a filling tube side wall, which in turn comprises an inner filling tube side wall, an outer filling tube side wall and at least one hole, wherein the at least one hole is arranged in the filling tube side wall. The at least one hole is arranged in the filling tube side wall such that the outer filling tube side wall can be flushed using gases and / or liquids, in particular cleaning liquids. In the open state, the at least one hole serves as a drain opening for media (gases, liquids) introduced into the filling tube for fumigation, cleaning and disinfection. If the hole is in the closed state, filling material can be guided through the filling tube without coming into contact with the outer filling tube side wall.

[0042] The gases used include CO2, N2, inert gases (e.g., noble gases), steam, etc. Cleaning fluids can be acids, alkalis, water, or disinfectants, which remove contents and contaminants without leaving any residue and / or destroy bacteria, viruses, fungi, etc.

[0043] Such an arrangement is particularly advantageous because cleaning the outer wall of the filling tube with gases and / or cleaning liquids optimizes hygienic conditions. The hygienic compartment preferably includes a lid slide.

[0044] The lid slider can be provided with a sliding and / or snap-in mechanism.

[0045] The advantage of arranging a lid slider in a hygienic compartment is that the lid slider stores one or more lids and enables automated and therefore efficient and fast lid feeding.

[0046] According to a further aspect, a system for filling and closing cans under hygienic conditions, as described above, additionally comprises a folding device adjustment mechanism. The folding device adjustment mechanism serves to adjust the folding rollers or replace the folding head. The folding device adjustment mechanism is located outside the hygienic compartment and is designed in the form of an eccentric screw, a slide, a screw, etc.

[0047] The adjustment of the seaming rollers or the replacement of the seaming head varies depending on the size and shape of the can being filled, particularly the can end size and shape. Therefore, it is necessary to adjust these accordingly when the can size or shape changes.

[0048] It is particularly advantageous if the folding device adjustment mechanism is located outside the hygienic compartment. This facilitates the folding device adjustment and simultaneously results in significant time savings. Preferably, a tool or aid designed to engage in recesses arranged on the folding rollers is used for further operations on the folding device within the hygienic compartment.

[0049] According to an alternative embodiment of the system according to the invention, a platform on which a can can be placed is arranged in the hygienic compartment. When used as intended, the platform with the can can be lifted in the direction of the inlet opening for the filling material. The hygienic compartment further comprises a casing arranged around the platform and a head plate. In order to be able to close the hygienic compartment, either the casing can be lifted in the direction of the inlet opening up to the head plate or the casing is attached to the head plate in such a way that the platform can be lifted into the casing.

[0050] The alternative embodiment of the system according to the invention can, of course but not necessarily, also comprise the folding device arranged on the hygienic compartment, which comprises a lid holder and folding rollers, wherein a filling tube can be passed through the lid holder for filling the can, in particular a filling tube is passed through.

[0051] In this context, closing the can means at least placing a can lid on the can. By holding the lid down on the can or by connecting the can lid to the can using common joining techniques, preferably by folding, it is ensured that the can remains closed for further processing. The cans to be filled and closed in this system are cans that are filled with a liquid and / or solid product. These are preferably beverage cans that are filled with a liquid product, in particular beverages.

[0052] A hygienic compartment is defined as a space that is closed off from the environment and maintained under hygienic conditions. Hygienic conditions are defined as conditions that correspond to at least hygiene class I as classified according to VDMA (No. 2 / 2000, 3rd edition 2016), but preferably hygiene class III or higher as classified according to VDMA No. 2 / 2000, 3rd edition 2016).

[0053] The lid holder can pick up the lid using a pick-up mechanism and transport the lid to the can. The pick-up mechanism can be a suction mechanism, a magnetic mechanism, or a guide system through which the lid is moved.

[0054] The platform can be solid and designed in the form of a stamp, but it can also be designed in the form of a lifting rod with a plate at the upper end of the lifting rod.

[0055] The advantages of this system are that cans are filled and sealed in a way that ensures a long shelf life, while simultaneously enabling very time-efficient filling and sealing. Furthermore, pressure conditions can be optimized under these conditions to enable rapid filling and lid application, even with foaming and dusty materials. An overpressure of up to 65 bar is used, preferably between 0 and 40 bar. This system is also very robust and easy to use.

[0056] Preferably, the casing is hollow and cylindrical. This has the advantage of reducing material costs and allowing for a space-saving system design.

[0057] Preferably, the platform has a concave curvature for aligning the can.

[0058] The advantage of a concave curvature of the platform is that the can stands securely and prevents it from slipping.

[0059] Preferably, the casing can be brought into sealing contact with the head plate.

[0060] This will improve the conditions for hygienic filling and closing of the cans.

[0061] According to a further aspect, a system for filling and closing cans under hygienic conditions, as described above, additionally comprises a storage compartment for storing at least one lid, preferably a stack of at least two lids. The storage compartment is arranged adjacent to the hygienic compartment. In particular, the storage compartment can also be arranged on the hygienic compartment.

[0062] The advantage of such a storage compartment is that a lid for closing a can is ready and automatically fed from the storage compartment to the can. Preferably, a lid in the closed hygienic compartment can be moved from a position next to the can to a position on the can over the filled can, in particular by being pushed, pulled, or pivoted with a movement device.

[0063] Such a feeding of the lid onto the can is particularly advantageous since it enables automatic feeding of the lid onto the can and thus not only simplifies the closing of the can but also optimises compliance with the hygienic conditions during the closing process.

[0064] Preferably, the hygienic compartment is closable by a casing arranged around the platform and a head plate, wherein the casing can be lifted in the direction of the inlet opening to close the hygienic compartment, and the storage compartment is arranged on the casing. The storage compartment stores at least one lid, preferably a stack of at least two lids. The casing and the storage compartment arranged thereon can be brought, in particular lifted, into sealing contact with the stop plate.

[0065] This improves the hygienic conditions during the sealing of the cans.

[0066] Preferably, the storage compartment further comprises a feed opening, in particular a nozzle for adding a cleaning agent or gases; and an outlet for the discharge of liquids; and in particular a discharge valve for gases.

[0067] The supply opening serves to collect cleaning agents from the storage compartment. To maintain hygienic conditions, the supply opening must be sealed gas-tight from the external environment of the storage compartment. This can be an inlet or a nozzle, for example. The outlet, on the other hand, serves to deliver cleaning agent to the external environment of the storage compartment and must therefore be sealed gas-tight from the external environment of the storage compartment. This can be achieved, for example, by means of a device such as a siphon, a valve, or a container that can be emptied.

[0068] The advantage is that the can lids are cleaned in the storage compartment, thus optimising the hygienic condition of the can lids before they are placed on the filled can.

[0069] Preferably, the storage compartment additionally comprises a lid separator, which in turn comprises a stack of can lids, a drawer and a slide for separating the can lids.

[0070] This lid separation has the advantage that the storage compartment can be stocked with a large number of lids, which can then be quickly and automatically transported to the filled cans for closing.

[0071] According to a further aspect, a system for filling and closing cans under hygienic conditions, as described above, additionally comprises a feeding device for feeding cans to be filled or for feeding lids or for feeding cans and lids to be filled and / or a removal device for already filled and closed cans. The cans and lids are picked up into the feeding device with the aid of a carrier. The carrier can be designed, for example, in the form of an active or passive gripper. The picking up can be radial or linear.

[0072] This makes it possible to quickly fill and close a large number of cans.

[0073] Preferably, the feed device and / or removal device additionally comprises at least one conveyor belt for transporting empty or filled cans, as well as a can stopping device, which in turn comprises at least two expandable barriers. At least one expandable barrier is arranged on one side of the conveyor belt and at least one expandable barrier is arranged on the opposite side of the conveyor belt. In an expanded state, the expandable barriers stop the cans on the conveyor belt. In the non-expanded state, the expandable barriers allow the cans to pass.

[0074] The expandable barriers are hollow bodies made of an elastic material. When the internal pressure of the hollow body increases, it expands, while when the internal pressure decreases, it returns to its original shape. At the same time, the elastic material is sufficiently stable to be positioned upright along the sides of the conveyor belt when not enlarged.

[0075] The expandable barriers enable a gentle and reliable stopping of the cans on a conveyor belt, thus preventing damage to the cans on the one hand, while also guaranteeing uninterrupted stopping and moving of the conveyor belt and / or the transported cans on the other. According to a further aspect, a system for filling and closing cans under hygienic conditions, as described above, additionally comprises a folding device, which in turn comprises a filling tube for filling the can and at least one device for closing the can. Depending on the filling tube position, the folding device is arranged above or below the inlet opening.

[0076] A lowerable filling pipe for internal jet filling can be used as the filling pipe, but the filling pipe can also be designed in such a way that edge filling can take place and, in special cases, lowering the filling pipe for the filling process can be omitted.

[0077] This has the advantage that time-ef fi cient filling and closing of the can is possible in the hygienic compartment.

[0078] The object is further achieved by a method for feeding a can to be filled into a filling position in a system as described above. The method comprises the steps: i) placing a can on a platform ii) closing the hygienic compartment and feeding the can to the filling position by a1) lifting the casing; and a2) lifting the platform or b) lifting the platform in the casing.

[0079] Steps a1) and a2) can be performed sequentially, partially overlapping, or simultaneously. A sequence in reverse order is also possible, i.e., a2) completely before a1); or a2) partially or completely overlapping with a1).

[0080] The advantage of this process is that it guarantees optimal hygienic conditions. The process is also very robust and easy to use.

[0081] The problem is further solved by a method for lid separation in a system as previously described.

[0082] The method comprises the steps of: a) placing a stack of at least two can ends in a storage compartment on a drawer b) separating the bottommost can end from the can end above it by means of a slide c) moving the drawer horizontally so that the bottommost can end falls downwards d) moving the drawer into the starting position so that the bottommost can end falls onto a feed tray f) placing the bottommost can end onto a filled can by means of a moving device.

[0083] The feed tray can be the floor of the storage compartment, a carrier, a partial surface of a feed or removal device, or even simply a hole through which a can end can fall. The advantage of this process is that it accelerates the closing of filled cans and the end separation occurs automatically.

[0084] The object is further achieved by a method for feeding and dispensing cans and can ends by means of a feeding device or removal device in a system as described above. The method comprises the steps of: a) simultaneous or sequential receiving of a can and a can end in a feeding device b) simultaneous or sequential rotational movement of the can to a hygienic compartment and of the can end to a storage compartment c) filling the can d) linear or rotational movement and placing of the can end onto the filled can e) closing the filled can with the can end f) linear or rotational movement of the filled and closed can to a dispensing position g) dispensing the filled and closed can.

[0085] The advantage of this method is the rapid filling and sealing of large numbers of cans. The invention is further explained below using exemplary embodiments in the figures.

[0086] Figure 1: Schematic representation of a lid holder and a filling tube in a first embodiment,

[0087] Figure la: Schematic representation of a shut-off device in a filling pipe in a first embodiment,

[0088] Figure 1b: Schematic representation of a shut-off device in a filling pipe in a second embodiment,

[0089] Figure 1c: Schematic representation of a shut-off device in a filling pipe in a third embodiment,

[0090] Figure Id: Schematic representation of a shut-off device in a filling pipe in a fourth embodiment,

[0091] Figure 2 : Schematic representation of a system in a first embodiment,

[0092] Figure 3: Schematic representation of a system in a second embodiment,

[0093] Figure 4 : Schematic representation of a system in a third embodiment,

[0094] Figure 5a: Schematic representation of a system in a fourth embodiment from above,

[0095] Figure 5b: Schematic representation of a system in a fourth embodiment in side view, Figure 6: Schematic representation of a system in a fifth embodiment,

[0096] Figure 7 : Schematic representation of a system in a sixth embodiment,

[0097] Figure 8a: Schematic representation of an opening mechanism of a hygienic compartment,

[0098] Figure 8b: Schematic representation of an opening mechanism of a hygienic compartment,

[0099] Figure 9a: Schematic representation of an opening mechanism of a hygienic compartment,

[0100] Figure 9b: Schematic representation of an opening mechanism of a hygienic compartment,

[0101] Figure 9c: Side view of a folding device in a hygienic compartment,

[0102] Figure 10a: Schematic representation of a rinsing process of a

[0103] Filling tube made of steel wall,

[0104] Figure 10b: Schematic representation of a rinsing process of a

[0105] Filling tube made of steel wall,

[0106] Figure 11: Schematic representation of a system in a first embodiment,

[0107] Figure 12: Schematic representation of a plant in a second embodiment, Figure 13: Schematic representation of a storage compartment integrated in an embodiment of a plant,

[0108] Figure 14 : Schematic representation of a lid separation process,

[0109] Figure 15: Schematic representation of a feeding and removal device in a first embodiment,

[0110] Figure 16: Schematic representation of a feeding and removal device in a second embodiment,

[0111] Figure 17: Schematic representation of a feeding and removal device in a third embodiment,

[0112] Figure 18: Schematic representation of a feeding and removal device in a fourth embodiment,

[0113] Figure 19 : Schematic representation of a can stop device,

[0114] Figure 20a: Schematic representation of a lifting mechanism in a first embodiment from a top view,

[0115] Figure 20b: Schematic representation of a lifting mechanism in a first embodiment, Figure 20c: Schematic representation of a lifting mechanism in a second embodiment,

[0116] Figure 20d: Schematic representation of a lifting mechanism in a third embodiment,

[0117] Figure 20e: Schematic representation of a lifting mechanism in a fourth embodiment,

[0118] Figure 20f: Schematic representation of a lifting mechanism in a fifth embodiment,

[0119] Figure 21a: Schematic representation of a passive driver for a feeding and removal device,

[0120] Figure 21b: Schematic representation of a cam-controlled

[0121] Carrier for a feeding and removal device,

[0122] Figure 22: Schematic representation of a system in a third embodiment.

[0123] Figure 1 shows a lid holder 71 as part of a folding device 7 and a filling tube 73 of a system 1 used for the automatic filling and closing of cans 2. The filling tube 73 is designed to convey contents into a can 2 (not shown). The filling tube 73 extends through the lid holder 71 and can be arranged either movably or immovably in the lid holder 71.

[0124] Figures 1a-1c show different embodiments of a filling tube 73.

[0125] Figure 1a shows a filling tube 73 which comprises a shut-off device 732 which, during intended use, is arranged at an end of the filling tube 73 facing a can 2. The shut-off device 732 is vertically movable and serves to open or close the filling tube 732 and regulates whether or not filling material is admitted into the can 2. The shut-off device 732 is actively raised or lowered from the end of the filling tube 73 which, during intended use, faces the can 2 and opens or closes the filling tube 73 with the seals 7341a arranged on an inner side wall 7341 of the filling tube. The shut-off device 732 can, as shown, be designed in very different shapes, such as cone, trapezoid, etc. The shut-off device 732 can also be controlled by spring force or pressure difference between the inner wall 7341 of the filling tube and the hygienic compartment 3. This eliminates the need for a mechanical connection to the outside for opening and closing the shut-off device 732.

[0126] Figure 1b shows a further embodiment of a filling tube 73. Here, too, the filling tube 73 comprises a shut-off device 732, which, during intended use, is arranged at an end of the filling tube 73 facing a can 2. The shut-off device 732 is vertically movable and, here, too, serves to open or close the filling tube 732 and regulates the inlet of the filling material into the can 2. The shut-off device 732 is actively raised or lowered to open or close the end of the filling tube 73 facing the can 2 during intended use.

[0127] Figure 1c shows a further embodiment of a filling tube 73. A steering device 731 is shown at an end of the filling tube 73 facing a can 2 during intended use. The steering device 731 has the task of converting a turbulent flow of the filling material into a laminar flow in order to reduce splashing and / or foaming as much as possible when filling the can 2 with filling material. This is a static steering device 731.

[0128] Figure 1d shows a further embodiment of a filling tube 73. The filling tube 73 also includes a static steering device 731 consisting of several tubes with a smaller diameter than the diameter of the filling tube 731.

[0129] Figures 2, 3, 4, 5a, 5b, 6 and 7 show different embodiments of a system 1 with folding rollers outside the hygienic compartment 3.

[0130] Figure 2 shows a first embodiment of a system 1, comprising a hygienic compartment 3, a folding device 7 and a seal 32 which seals the hygienic compartment at the top when closed. Furthermore, a lifting device (not shown here and in the following Figures 3-7) can be provided for raising and lowering a can 2. The folding device 7 comprises a lid holder 71 and folding rollers 72. The lid holder 71 is located within the hygienic compartment 3. In preparation for the folding process, the lid holder with the lid can be lowered onto the can; and / or the can is lifted in the direction of the lid holder by means of the lifting device (this also applies to the embodiments shown in Figures 3-7). The folding rollers 72 are located outside the hygienic compartment 3 .The lid holder 71 comprises a filling tube 73 which can be passed through an inlet opening 30 in the lid holder 71. A can 2 and a can lid 21 are arranged in the interior of the hygienic compartment 3, the can lid 2 resting on a shelf 33 above an opening of the can 2. The seal 32 in this case is a beveled seal. The hygienic compartment 3 is opened to fill and close the can 2 with the contents. Since the folding rollers 72 are arranged outside the hygienic compartment 3, abrasion caused by the folding process can cause less contamination of the hygienic compartment 3.

[0131] Figure 3 shows a second embodiment of a system 1. The embodiment shown in Figure 3 corresponds to the embodiment in Figure 2, but in contrast to the first embodiment in Figure 2, shows a horizontal seal 32 and a shelf 33 arranged within the hygienic compartment 3.

[0132] Figure 4 shows a third embodiment of a system 1. This system 1 is analogous to the system 1 shown in Figure 2. Here too, a seal 32 for sealing the hygienic compartment 3 is designed as an oblique seal. In contrast to the system 1 shown in Figure 2, Figure 4 also illustrates a lid slide 34 which is provided on the (not shown) upper connection part for the hygienic compartment. Preferably, the lid slide 34 in this embodiment is arranged in a vertically fixed position. Figures 5a and 5b show a hygienic compartment 3 of a system 1. The hygienic compartment 3 is sealed with a horizontal seal 32. A can 2 and a can lid 21 are arranged in the hygienic compartment 3. A lid slide 34 is integrated into a wall of the hygienic compartment 3.By means of a pushing or pulling movement, initiated from the outside, the lid slider 34 moves the can lid 21 onto the can 2 .

[0133] Figure 6 shows a further embodiment of a system 1 analogous to Figure 3. Additionally shown here is a lid slider 34 and a lid hold-down device 35. The lid slider 34 moves, initiated from the outside, a can lid 21 onto a can 2. The lid hold-down device 35 presses the can lid 2 downwards and thus reduces the internal volume of the hygienic compartment 3. Due to the resulting smaller internal volume of the hygienic compartment 3, any rinsing processes with cleaning agents, disinfectants, protective gas, etc. can be carried out more economically, efficiently, and quickly.

[0134] Figure 7 shows a lid-holding device 35 in a further embodiment. In contrast to the variant shown in Figure 6, the lid-holding device 35 is provided with an arm 351 with which a can lid 21 can be moved toward a can 2. This arrangement has the advantage that the lid slider does not have to be moved along with the sleeve.

[0135] Figures 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, and 9c schematically show the opening of the hygienic compartment 3 for closing a can 2 with a can lid 21 by means of folding. Figure 8a shows the closed hygienic compartment 3 with a filled can 2, over which a can lid 21 is pushed.

[0136] Figure 8b shows how, with an open hygienic compartment 3, a can 2 is closed with a can lid 21 by means of two folding rollers 72. The open hygienic compartment 3 clears the way for the folding rollers 72 to fold the can lid 21 onto the can 2.

[0137] Figures 9a and 9b show, in a more detailed embodiment, the closing of the hygienic compartment 3 for filling a can 2, the opening of the hygienic compartment 3, and the closing of the can 2 with the can lid 21. When closing the hygienic compartment 3 in Figure 9a, seals 36 are pressed against an inner wall of the hygienic compartment 3 by an overpressure generated by gas.

[0138] In Figure 9c, the arrangement of the folding rollers 72 from Figures 9a and 9b is shown from the side.

[0139] Figures 10a and 10b show a rinsing process of a filling tube side outer wall 7342 of a filling tube 73 which can be moved in a lid holder 71. The filling tube comprises a filling tube side wall 734, which in turn comprises a filling tube side inner wall 7341, the filling tube side outer wall 7342 and a hole 7343. Instead of a hole 7343, the filling tube side wall 734 can also comprise several holes 7343. Between the filling tube 73, the lid holder 71 and seals 711 there is a cavity 712. If the filling tube is now moved vertically in the lid holder 71 so that the hole 7343 in the filling tube side wall 7342 is located in a region between the seals 711, as shown in Figure 10b, then the rinsing process can begin. The cavity 712 is flooded with cleaning agent, disinfectant, protective gases, etc., which then enters the filling tube 73 through the hole 7343 and flows out.

[0140] A system 1 shown in Figure 11 is used for the automatic filling and closing of cans 2. The system 1 comprises a hygienic compartment 3, a platform 31 on which a can 2 can be placed (can not shown here, see Figure 2), a casing 32 and a head plate 33. In a first step, the platform 31 lifts the can 2 and moves it in the direction of the head plate 33. This movement serves to position the can (2) at the necessary level for the subsequent filling process. This movement can also be omitted in special arrangements. In a second step, the casing 32 arranged around the platform 31 also moves in the direction 33 until the casing 32 makes sealing contact with the head plate 33. The two steps can also take place in the reverse order or simultaneously.

[0141] Figure 12 shows a further embodiment of the system 1 for automatically filling and closing cans 2. Here, it is shown how a can 2 is moved on a concavely curved platform 31 in the direction of a head plate 33 (not shown here, see Fig. 11) until the can 2 makes sealing contact with the head plate 33. In a second step, filling material is then filled into the can 2 through an inlet opening 30 integrated into the head plate 33.

[0142] Figure 13 shows a storage compartment 5 integrated into a system 1. The storage compartment 5 is arranged on a hygienic compartment 3 and stores a can end 21. In a first step, a can 2 is moved on a platform 31 in the direction of a head plate 33. In a second step, a casing 32 with the storage compartment 5 arranged on it follows until it stops against the head plate 33. The can 2 is then filled with contents (see Figure 12). The can end 21 contained in the storage compartment 5 is then moved into the hygienic compartment 3 onto the filled can 2.

[0143] Figure 14 shows a lid separator 52 integrated into a storage compartment 5, which comprises a stack of can lids 21, a drawer 521, a slide 522 for separating the can lids 21 and a moving device 50, wherein the stack of can lids 21 lies on the drawer 521. In step A, the stack of can lids 21 is separated from the bottommost can lid 21 with the aid of the slide 522. In step B, the drawer 521 is moved away in the horizontal direction so that the bottommost can lid 21 falls downwards. In step C, the drawer 521 is moved back into the starting position so that the bottommost can lid 2 falls onto the feed tray 523, in this case in the form of the bottom of the storage compartment 5, from where it is then placed onto a filled can 2 or placed onto the feed tray 523 in step D by means of the movement device 50.

[0144] Figures 15, 16, 17 and 18 show different embodiments of a feeding device 6 and a removal device 6a.

[0145] Figure 15 shows a feeding device 6 with two rotationally symmetrical carriers 64. In step A, a can 2 is received in one of the two carriers 64 on one side, while the other three carriers 64 remain unoccupied.

[0146] In step B, the feeding device rotates by 90° and moves the can 2 along. In step C, a can end 21 is picked up by the second carrier 64 on the same side. This carrier 64 can also serve as a feed tray 523 for lid separation, as shown in Figure 14. In step D, the feeding device 6 rotates again by 90° and moves the can 2 and the can end 21 along. Here, the can 2 is placed on a platform 31 and the end 21 is placed on a can end tray 53. In step E, the feeding device 6 rotates by 90° in the opposite direction, while the can 2 and the end 21 are not moved and remain on the platform 31 and the can end tray 53. The can 2 is now filled with filling material. In a further step, the lid 21 is pushed onto the filled can 2 and the can 2 is closed.In step F, the feeding device rotates again by 90° in the original direction and picks up the filled can 21 on one side in one of the two carriers 64. On the other side, an unfilled can 2 is again picked up in a further carrier 64. In step G, the feeding device 6 is rotated again by 90° and on the side of the unfilled can 2, another lid 21 is picked up in the still free carrier 64. After another rotation by 90° in step H, the filled can 2 is dispensed, for example by it falling through a table opening. Steps D to H are now repeated again.

[0147] Figure 16 shows a further embodiment of a feeding device 6. The cans 2 are located in the outer positions, while the can lids 21 lie on the feeding device 6 and are moved onto the filled cans 2 during the rotational movement after the cans 2 have been filled with filling material. The support surface of the can lids 21 on the feeding device 6 can also serve as a feed tray 523 for lid separation, as described in Figure 14. Figure 17 shows a further embodiment of a feeding device 6 which represents a combination of the two embodiments of Figures 15 and 16.

[0148] Figure 18 shows a similar embodiment of a feeding device 6 to that shown in Figure 16. Additionally shown is a conveyor belt 61 for transporting empty cans 2 to the feeding device 6 and a removal device 6a for removing the filled and closed cans 2. Both the feeding device 6 and the removal device 6a are designed in the form of a transport star. The removal device 6a comprises several units consisting of a platform 31 and a can storage device 53. The platform 31 receives one of the empty cans 2 and one can end 21 each. The can ends 21 lie on the feeding device 6. After the can 2 has been filled and closed with the can end 21, the filled can 2 is carried away by the removal device 6a.In this case too, the support surface of the can lids 21 on the feed device 6 can serve as a feed tray 523 for lid separation, as described in Figure 14.

[0149] Figure 19 shows a can stopping device 62 for stopping cans 2 on a conveyor belt 61. The can stopping device 62 has two enlargeable hollow cylindrical barriers 63 on the opposite sides of the conveyor belt 61. In order to stop the cans 2 on the conveyor belt 61, the enlargeable hollow cylindrical barriers 63 are inflated using a gas, for example air. By reducing the passage between the two enlargeable hollow cylindrical barriers 63, the cans 2 are gently held back. After the gas is released, the passage between the two enlargeable hollow cylindrical barriers 63 becomes passable again and the cans are transported further on the conveyor belt 61. The advantage of the device is that the conveyor belt can continue to run and the can can still be stopped and transported further at the desired moment.

[0150] Figures 20a - 20f show compact and force-optimized lifting mechanisms 8 for lifting a can 2 for filling and closing with a can lid 2 .

[0151] Figure 20a shows a top view of a lifting mechanism 8. The lifting mechanism 8 comprises two guide rods 81. Between the two guide rods 81, a can 2 is arranged on a platform 31, adjacent to which, in the same plane, a can lid 21 is arranged on a can lid support 53.

[0152] Figure 20b shows a lifting mechanism 8 comprising two guide rods 81 and a pneumatic device 82 connected to a platform 31 on which a can 2 is arranged. The platform 31 is moved upwards by means of the pneumatic device 82.

[0153] Figure 20c shows a lifting mechanism 8 comprising a guide rod 81, a rocker arm 83, and a connecting cable 84 arranged in the guide rod 81. A platform 31 with a container 2 is attached to the rocker arm 83. The rocker arm 83 and the attached platform 31 with the container 2 are pulled upward or lowered by means of the connecting cable 84.

[0154] Figure 20d shows a lifting mechanism 8 comprising a guide rod 81, a connecting cable 84, and a gear mechanism 85. A platform 31 with a can 2 is arranged on the gear mechanism 85. The connecting rod 84 is arranged within the guide rod 81. By rotating the connecting rod and the gear mechanism 85, the platform 31 with the can 2 is lifted by a threaded rod driven by a gear mechanism.

[0155] Figure 20e shows a lifting mechanism 8 comprising a guide rod 81, a wire 86 arranged in the guide rod 81, which is connected to a platform 31, and a spring 87 in contact with the platform 31. A can 2 rests on the platform 31. By applying pressure to the spring and releasing the wire 86, the can 2 moves upward. By pulling the wire 86 upward, the can support 31 is lowered.

[0156] Figure 20f shows a further lifting mechanism 8, which comprises two guide rods 81, two pneumatic cylinders arranged in the two guide rods 81 and connected to a platform 31 on which a can 2 stands. The two pneumatic cylinders move the platform 31 with the can 2 up and down.

[0157] Figure 21a shows a passive driver 64 for a feed and removal device 6a (not shown here), which advantageously does not need to be controlled. The driver 64 is in the form of a gripper that can grip a can 2. The driver further comprises a spring-controlled folding mechanism 65. The driver 64 first picks up the can 2 and transports it to a hygienic compartment 3. Then a casing 32 slides upwards from below over the can 2. The spring-loaded driver 64 passively moves out of the way of the casing 32 and the hygienic compartment 3 closes.

[0158] Figure 21b shows a cam-controlled carrier 64 for a feed and removal device 6a (not shown here), which is advantageously controlled by a casing 32 and therefore no additional drive is necessary. The carrier 64 is again designed in the form of a gripper, which can encompass a can 2 (not shown here). The carrier 64 also comprises a spring mechanism 66. The carrier 64 picks up a can 2 and transports it to a hygienic compartment.

[0159] 3 . The carrier is then pushed aside by a contour of the casing 32 as it is raised, and the hygienic compartment 3 closes. The carrier 64 returns itself to its original position by spring force.

[0160] Figure 22 shows a system 1 comprising a platform 31, a storage compartment 5, two guide rods 81, and a folding device 7. The system 1 further comprises four wheels 11 to allow for flexible use.

Claims

Patent claims 1. A system (1) for filling and closing cans (2) under hygienic conditions, comprising a hygienic compartment (3) and an inlet opening (30) for a filling material; wherein the inlet opening (30) is formed on the hygienic compartment (3); wherein the system (1) is designed such that, when used as intended, one or more cans (2) can be assigned to the hygienic compartment (3) in such a way that it can be moved together with the can(s) (2) in the system (1); characterized in that the system (1) comprises a folding device (7), and the folding device (7) comprises a lid holder (71) and folding rollers (72), wherein a filling tube (73) for filling the can (2) can be guided through the lid holder (71), in particular is guided through it.

2. System (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the filling tube (73) is movably arranged in the folding device (7), in particular in the lid holder (71).

3. Plant (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the filling pipe (73) comprises a steering device (731) in an end region at the filling pipe outlet for forming a turbulence-reduced, laminar flow of the filling material.

4. Plant (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that the steering device (731) is in the form of a static steering device (731), in particular pipes or grids, or a movable steering device (731), in particular rotors, turbines, or pumps. System (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the filling tube (73) comprises one or more shut-off elements or metering elements (732). System (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that one of the shut-off elements (732) for opening or closing the filling tube (73) is arranged at an end of the filling tube (73) facing the can (2) during intended use. Installation (1) according to one of claims 5 or 6, characterized in that the filling tube (73) comprises one or more shut-off elements (732) or a feed element (733), wherein one of the shut-off elements (732) for opening or closing the filling tube (73) or the feed element (733) is arranged at an end of the filling tube (73) facing away from the can (2) during intended use.Installation (1) according to one of claims 5-7, characterized in that the shut-off device (732) or feed element (733) arranged at an end of the filling tube (73) facing away from the can (2) during intended use is designed in such a way that. - Liquids, especially filling materials, cleaning agents, etc.; and / or - Gases, in particular filling material, cleaning agents, etc. can be introduced and / or metered. System (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the filling tube (73) has a filling tube side wall (734), wherein the filling tube side wall (734) comprises a filling tube side inner wall (7341), a filling tube side outer wall (7342), and a hole (7343), wherein the hole (7343) is arranged in the filling tube side wall (7341) such that the filling tube side outer wall (7342) can be rinsed by means of gases and / or liquids, in particular cleaning liquids. System (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the hygienic compartment (3) is designed such that the hygienic compartment (3) comprises a lid slide (34).System (1) for filling and closing cans (2) under hygienic conditions, in particular according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a hygienic compartment (3) and an inlet opening (30) for a filling material; wherein the inlet opening (30) is formed on the hygienic compartment (3); wherein the system (1) is designed such that, when used as intended, one or more cans (2) can be assigned to the hygienic compartment (3) in such a way that it can be moved together with the can(s) (2) in the system (1); characterized in that the system (1) comprises a folding member adjustment device for adjusting the folding device (7), wherein the folding member adjustment device is arranged outside the hygienic compartment (3).System (1) for filling and closing cans (2) under hygienic conditions, in particular according to one of claims 1 to 11, comprising a hygienic compartment (3) and an inlet opening (30) for a filling material; wherein the inlet opening (30) is formed on the hygienic compartment (3); wherein the system (1) is designed such that. when used as intended, one or more cans (2) can be assigned to the hygienic compartment (3) in such a way that it can be moved together with the can(s) (2) in the system (1); characterized in that - a platform (31) is arranged in the hygienic compartment (3), on which a can (2) can be placed, and wherein the platform (31) can be lifted with the can(s) (2) in the direction of the inlet opening (30) for the filling material when used as intended; and - the hygienic compartment (3) is closable with a casing (32) arranged around the platform (31) and a head plate (33); wherein - the casing (32) can be lifted towards the inlet opening (30) to close the hygienic compartment (3) up to the head plate (33), or - the casing (32) is attached to the head plate (33) in such a way that the platform (31) can be lifted into the casing (32).

13. System (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that the casing (32) is hollow-cylindrical.

14. Installation (1) according to one of claims 12 or 13, characterized in that the platform (31) has a concave curvature for aligning the can (2).

15. System (1) according to one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that the casing (32) can be brought into sealing contact with the head plate (33). System (1) for filling and closing cans (2) under hygienic conditions, in particular according to one of claims 12 to 15, comprising a hygienic compartment (3) and an inlet opening (30) for a filling material; wherein the inlet opening (30) is formed on the hygienic compartment (3); wherein the system (1) is designed such that, when used as intended, one or more cans (2) can be assigned to the hygienic compartment (3) in such a way that it can be moved together with the can(s) (2) in the system (1); characterized in that a storage compartment (5) for storing at least one lid (21), preferably a stack of at least two lids (21), is assigned to the hygienic compartment (3), in particular is arranged on the hygienic compartment (3).System (1) according to one of claims 12 to 16, characterized in that a lid (21) in the closed hygienic compartment (3) can be moved from a position next to the can (2) to a position on the filled can (2), in particular by being pushed or pulled or pivoted in with a movement device (50). System (1) according to one of claims 12 to 17, characterized in that the hygienic compartment (3) can be closed with a casing (32) arranged around the platform (31) and a head plate (33); wherein the casing (32) can be lifted in the direction of the inlet opening (30) to close the hygienic compartment (3) and the storage compartment (5) is arranged on the casing (32), on which at least one lid (21), in particular a stack of at least two lids (21), can be arranged; wherein the casing and the... The storage compartment (5) can be brought into sealing contact with the stop plate (33), in particular can be lifted. Installation (1) according to one of claims 12 to 18, characterized in that the storage compartment (5) is further - a supply opening (50), in particular a nozzle, for adding a cleaning agent or gases; and - an outlet (51) for the drainage of liquids; and - in particular, a discharge valve for gases. System (1) according to one of claims 12 to 19, characterized in that the storage compartment (5) further comprises a lid separator (52) which comprises a stack of lids (21), a drawer (521) and a slider (522) for separating the can lids (21). System (1) for filling and closing cans (2) under hygienic conditions, in particular according to one of claims 12 to 20, comprising a hygienic compartment (3) and an inlet opening (30) for a filling material; wherein the inlet opening (30) is formed on the hygienic compartment (3); wherein the system (1) is designed such that, when used as intended, the hygienic compartment (3) one or more cans (2) can be assigned to it in such a way that it can be moved together with the can(s) (2) in the system (1); characterized in that the system (1) - a feeding device (6) for cans (2) to be filled; or - Lid (21); or cans (2) to be filled and lid (21); and / or - a removal device (6a) for filled cans (2). Plant (1) according to one of claims 12 to 21, wherein the feed device (6) and / or removal device (6a) further comprises at least one conveyor belt (61) for transporting empty or filled cans (2), and a can stopping device (62) comprising at least two enlargeable barriers (63); wherein at least one enlargeable barrier (63) is arranged on one side of the conveyor belt (61) and at least one enlargeable barrier (63) is arranged on the opposite side of the conveyor belt (61) in such a way that the enlargeable barriers (63) stop the cans (2) on the conveyor belt (61) in an enlarged state and allow the cans (2) to pass through in a non-enlarged state.System (1) for filling and closing cans (2) under hygienic conditions, in particular according to one of claims 12 to 22, comprising a hygienic compartment (3) and an inlet opening (30) for a filling material; wherein the inlet opening (30) is formed on the hygienic compartment (3); wherein the system (1) is designed such that, when used as intended, one or more cans (2) can be assigned to the hygienic compartment (3) in such a way that it can be moved together with the can(s) (2) in the system (1); characterized in that the system (1) comprises a folding device (7) comprising a filling tube (71) for filling the can (2) and at least one folding roller (72) for closing the can (2); and wherein the folding device (7) can be inserted into an inlet opening (30). . Method for feeding a can (2) to be filled into a filling position in a system (1) according to one of claims 1 to 12, comprising the steps of: i) placing a can (2) on a platform (31); ii) closing the hygienic compartment (3) and feeding the can (2) to the filling position by a1) lifting the casing (32); and a2) lifting the platform (31) or b) lifting the platform (31) in the casing (32).Method for separating lids in a system (1) according to one of claims 1 to 12, comprising the steps: a) placing a stack of at least two can lids (21) in a storage compartment (5) on a drawer (521); b) separating the bottommost can lid (21) from the can lid (21) above it by means of a slider (522); c) moving the drawer (521) in a horizontal direction so that the bottommost can lid (21) falls downwards; d) moving the drawer (521) into a starting position so that the bottommost can lid (2) falls onto a feed tray (523); e) placing the bottommost can lid (2) on a filled can (2) by means of a moving device (50). Method for feeding and dispensing cans (2) and can lids (21) by means of a feeding device (6) or removal device (6a) in a plant (1) according to one of claims 1 to 12, comprising the steps:. a) Simultaneous or sequential insertion of a can (2) and a can lid (21) into a feeding device (6) ; b) simultaneous or sequential rotational movement of the can (2) to a hygienic compartment (3) and of the can lid (21) to a storage compartment (5) ; c) filling the can (2) ; d) linear or rotational movement and placing of the can lid (21) on the filled can (2) ; e) closing the filled can (2) with the can lid (21) ; f) linear or rotational movement of the filled and closed can (2) to a dispensing position; g) dispensing the filled and closed can (2).

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