Closing device, barrier system and method

Abstract

The present invention relates to a closing device (10) for closing a container (52), in particular a pharmaceutical or cosmetic container, which has a closure cap (48), wherein the closing device (10) has a holding apparatus (12) and a flanging apparatus (14), wherein the holding apparatus (12) is configured to hold the container (52) at a flanging position (62), and wherein the flanging apparatus (14) is configured to flange the closure cap (48) onto the container (52) at the flanging position (62), wherein the closing device (10) furthermore has an optical control apparatus (16) that is configured to control one or more properties of the container (52) and / or of the closure cap (48) at the flanging position (62), wherein the control apparatus (16) has a camera system (17). The present invention furthermore relates to a barrier system (70), in particular an isolator system. The present invention furthermore relates to a method (100) for closing a container (52), in particular a pharmaceutical or cosmetic container, with a closure cap (48).

Description

Closing device, barrier system and method

[0001] The present invention relates to a closure device for closing a container, in particular a pharmaceutical or cosmetic container, with a closure cap. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a barrier system, in particular an isolator system. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for closing a container, in particular a pharmaceutical or cosmetic container, with a closure cap.

[0002] A barrier system is a system that provides a physical and aerodynamic barrier, e.g., by means of positive air pressure, between an external environment, such as an external cleanroom environment, and a work process. In particular, a barrier system provides an environment with restricted access in which the work process can be carried out. Various barrier systems are known in the art. A barrier system can, for example, be an isolator or a barrier with restricted access, a so-called RABS, "Restricted Area Barrier System". The RABS can be an open RABS or a closed RABS.

[0003] The present invention primarily concerns aseptic isolators as barrier systems. However, the present invention can also be applied to other barrier systems, such as an open or closed RABS.

[0004] The term "isolator" generally refers to a container that is hermetically and gas-tightly sealed from the surrounding workspace. Within an isolator, a defined atmosphere can be created for processing sensitive or hazardous products.

[0005] In this context, isolators are typically used in biopharmaceutical processing, for example, as part of a filling system with multiple processing and processing stations, to create a highly clean or sterile, i.e., germ-free environment. In such filling systems, containers, such as vials, cartridges, bottles, syringes, and / or the like, can be filled with a product, such as a pharmaceutical or cosmetic product, in particular a liquid or powder, and then sealed with a closure element, such as a stopper or a closure cap, preferably a crimp cap.

[0006] For handling the containers and / or the closure elements, one or more handling devices, in particular handling robots, can be arranged in the insulator. For filling the containers, a filling station can be provided in the insulator. For closing the containers, one or more closing stations, for example a plug-inserting station and / or a flanging station, can be arranged in the insulator. In a closing station, each container is closed with a closure element after filling. In particular, a plug can be placed on the container in a plug-inserting station. In the flanging station, a closure cap can be attached to the container, in particular crimped. To close a container, a plug can first be placed on or into an opening in the container. A closure cap can then be placed on the container and crimped, with the plug being pressed against the container's mouth rim by the closure cap to ensure proper sealing of the container.

[0007] For closing containers with a closure cap, the closing station can have a closing device, such as a crimping device. By means of this closing device, a closure cap, in particular a crimping cap, can be applied, in particular crimped, onto a filled container. Such closing devices are known from the prior art.

[0008] For example, WO 2021 / 214809 A1 discloses an apparatus for filling containers with a powdered material, comprising a feeding station arranged to feed a plurality of the containers; a filling station arranged downstream of the loading station and comprising a measuring arrangement configured to fill each container with a measured amount of a powdered material; a closing station arranged downstream of the filling station; and at least one handling arrangement movable to transport at least one container from one station to a subsequent station.

[0009] In filling plants, it is generally desirable to monitor the process steps. Various types of sensors can be used for this purpose. Optical sensors (such as cameras) are usually mounted on the ceiling or outside the isolator behind a glass pane. Such optical sensors can be used, for example, to determine the position of objects within the isolator and control handling equipment accordingly. Other sensors, such as light barriers and pressure or force sensors, are preferably installed at individual process stations to record process parameters directly at the process stations.

[0010] Especially when filling and closing cosmetic or pharmaceutical products, it is important that the filled container is properly closed. To this end, a check can be performed, for example, in the closing device or downstream of the closing device. For example, it is known to use a force sensor or a position sensor to determine whether the closure cap has been correctly crimped onto the container.

[0011] For example, US 2009 / 020496 A1 discloses a system and method for validating the crimping of a vial with a stopper and a cap. The system includes a crimping cylinder, a controller that validates the crimping of the cap onto the vial, and an indicator for indicating whether the crimping has been validated. The crimping cylinder includes a piston; a plurality of crimping jaws that cooperate with the piston, wherein the crimping jaws move to a closed position when the piston is moved downward, and the crimping jaws move to an open position when the piston is moved upward; a position indicator; and a position sensor. The position indicator and the position sensor indicate a position of the piston.

[0012] Furthermore, document EP 1 955 949 A1 discloses a machine for filling and closing containers. The machine comprises: a conveyor controlled in stages in a feed direction, which is laterally provided with several gripping devices capable of supporting containers at an active branch of a conveyor to which a main gas flow of a sterile substance is applied; a filling station in which several nozzles operate for batch-filling the containers below, and weighing devices for detecting that the containers have been correctly filled; a closing station in which closing devices operate for closing the containers with closure caps, and sensors capable of detecting that the containers have been correctly closed by the closing devices.a release station downstream of the closing station, in which manipulator devices operate, the manipulator devices being kept deactivated to allow the transport of containers in which faulty filling and / or closing parameters have been detected, these containers being released onto a reject conveyor located downstream and in series with the active branch; or the manipulator devices; be activated transversely to the feed direction in order to collect the containers transferred with correct filling and closing parameters and to deliver them to an outfeed conveyor arranged adjacent to and parallel to the reject conveyor.

[0013] Furthermore, the document DE 102020 117 790 A1 shows a device for testing the tightness of a closure of a container, in particular a pharmaceutical or cosmetic container, which has a closure cap for closing the container and an elastic sealing element arranged between the closure cap and an opening edge of the container, comprising: a rotary plate movable relative to the closure of the container for exerting a compressive force on the elastic sealing element in order to cause compression of the elastic sealing element, wherein the rotary plate is connected to an axially displaceable drive shaft of a drive unit, and wherein the rotary plate is designed to be rotated with the container coupled thereto; a crimping device for crimping the closure cap; a control unit for controlling the drive unit;and a position sensor for providing a value representing a stroke position of the turntable;

[0014] However, the known closing devices and methods for closing a container with a closure cap still leave room for improvement, particularly with regard to the control of the closing process.

[0015] Against this background, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved closing device, an improved barrier system, in particular an isolator system, and an improved method for closing a container with a closure cap, in particular in which the control of the closing process is improved.

[0016] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a closure device for closing a container, in particular a pharmaceutical or cosmetic container, with a closure cap is provided, wherein the closure device has a holding device and a crimping device, wherein the holding device device is adapted to hold the container at a crimping position, and wherein the crimping device is adapted to crimp the closure cap onto the container at the crimping position, wherein the closing device further comprises an optical control device which is adapted to check one or more properties of the container and / or the closure cap at the crimping position, wherein the control device comprises a camera system.

[0017] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a barrier system is provided, wherein the barrier system comprises a restricted-access environment, in particular an isolator, and the closure device according to the first aspect. The closure device can in particular be arranged within the restricted-access environment. The barrier system can in particular be an isolator system, wherein the restricted-access environment is an isolator. Alternatively, the barrier system can also be an open or closed RABS.

[0018] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a method for closing a container, in particular a pharmaceutical or cosmetic container, with a closure cap is provided, the method comprising the following steps: Holding the container at a flanging position by means of a holding device of a closing device; Crimping the closure cap onto the container at the crimping position by means of a crimping device of the closure device; and Checking one or more properties of the container and / or the closure cap at the crimping position by means of an optical control device of the closing device, wherein the control device comprises a camera system.

[0019] The method according to the third aspect can preferably be carried out by means of the closing device according to the first aspect and in particular in the isolator system according to the second aspect.

[0020] The closure device is preferably a crimping device, and the closure cap is preferably a crimp cap. The container is preferably a vial, an ampoule, or the like, which can be filled with a pharmaceutical or cosmetic product. The closure cap can be placed on the container. In other words, the container can be arranged or provided at the crimping position for closure with the closure cap in place. In particular, the container can have an opening in which a plug is arranged, and the closure cap is placed on the container in such a way that it surrounds the opening and the plug.

[0021] The closing device comprises the holding device and the flanging device for closing the container. In particular, the closing device can comprise a support structure that supports the holding device and the flanging device. The holding device serves to hold the container in the flanging position. The flanging device serves to flang the closure cap at the flanging position on the container. The flanging position is a specific position in space at which the container is arranged for flanging. The flanging position can preferably be a position within the restricted-access environment at which the container is arranged for flanging.

[0022] The closure cap is attached to the container by crimping. For this purpose, the container can have a crimping area. The closure cap can preferably be crimped in the crimping area of ​​the container. When the closure cap is placed on the container, the closure cap can extend from the opening to the crimping area. As a result of crimping, the closure cap is pressed against or into the crimping area in the area of ​​the crimping area. The crimping area can, for example, have a recess, a depression, or a groove. The crimping area preferably extends circumferentially on the container. The crimping area can preferably be arranged at the opening or below the opening.

[0023] Preferably, the container is arranged at the crimping position with a closure cap in place. In particular, the closure cap can be placed on the container prior to closing, for example, by means of one of the handling devices of the barrier system. In particular, the container can be fed to the closing device already with the closure cap in place. Alternatively, the closure cap can also be placed on the container in the closing device prior to closing. At the crimping position, the container can then be held together with the closure cap in place by means of the holding device. The crimping device can then crimp the closure cap onto the container while the container is held with the closure cap in place.

[0024] The barrier system, in particular an isolator system, can preferably be part of a filling system with multiple process and processing stations. The process and processing stations can be arranged in the restricted-access environment of the barrier system. The filling system can, for example, be a system for filling and closing containers with a pharmaceutical or cosmetic substance. In the filling system, the containers are filled in the filling station and then closed with a closure cap in the closing station. For this purpose, the filling system can have a filling station and a closing station and, optionally, a plugging station. The filling station and the closing station can be arranged within the restricted-access environment. The closing device can be part of this closing station. Before closing in the closing station, a plug can be placed on filled containers in the plugging station.

[0025] The barrier system can further comprise one or more handling devices in the restricted-access environment. Containers and closure caps can be handled by the handling devices. For example, one of the handling devices can transfer filled containers from the filling station or the plugging station to the closing station. Furthermore, one of the handling devices can also place a closure cap on the container at the closing station. The applied closure cap can then be crimped onto the container at the crimping position using the crimping device.

[0026] The restricted-access environment is preferably an isolator. The isolator may have an interior space. The isolator is preferably an aseptic isolator. An aseptic isolator has a highly clean or sterile, i.e., germ-free, environment in the interior space. The closing device can be arranged in the isolator, in particular in the interior space of the isolator. Furthermore, the filling station and / or the plugging station and / or the one or more handling devices can also be arranged in the isolator.

[0027] The barrier system may further comprise a control device. The control device may, for example, be configured to control devices, such as the closure device, and / or one or more handling devices within the restricted-access environment.

[0028] According to the invention, the closing device has an optical inspection device. The inspection device serves to optically inspect or monitor the closing process. At the flanging position, the inspection device can, in particular, optically inspect the container and / or the closure cap placed on the container and / or optionally the stopper placed on the container. The optical inspection is carried out by means of the camera system of the inspection device. In particular, the inspection device checks one or more properties of the container and / or the closure cap. The properties of the container can, for example, comprise a design and / or an arrangement of the container. The design of the container can, for example, comprise a shape, a size, a color, a surface texture and / or a surface profile of the container.The arrangement of the container can include, for example, a position and / or an orientation of the container. The properties of the closure cap can include a configuration and / or an arrangement of the closure cap, in particular on the container. The configuration of the closure cap can include, for example, a shape, a size, a color, a surface texture, and / or a surface profile of the closure cap. The arrangement of the closure cap can include, for example, a position and / or an orientation of the closure cap.

[0029] Because the closing device has the optical inspection device, the inspection device is integrated into the closing station. In particular, this allows for optical in-process inspection of the closing process. For this purpose, the inspection device can monitor one or more properties of the container and / or the closure cap during the closing process.

[0030] In particular, the inspection device can check whether the container and the closure cap are arranged in the crimping position. To do this, the inspection device can, for example, check the position of the container and the closure cap. Furthermore, the inspection device can also check whether the correct container and / or the correct closure cap are arranged in the crimping position. To do this, the inspection device can, for example, check the shape, size and / or color of the container and / or the closure cap. Furthermore, the inspection device can also check whether the closure cap is correctly placed on the container. To do this, the inspection device can, for example, check the position and / or alignment of the closure cap. Furthermore, the inspection device can also check whether the container has been closed correctly.In particular, the inspection device can monitor the crimping quality. For this purpose, the inspection device can, for example, check the shape, position, and orientation of the closure cap, preferably after crimping. In particular, the inspection device can check whether the crimping of the closure cap is uniform all the way around and / or whether the closure cap is positioned in a specific way after crimping.

[0031] Based on the optical inspection of the inspection device, the control device of the barrier system can then, in particular, control the closing device and / or the handling devices accordingly. For example, the control device can control the closing device based on the optical inspection in such a way that the closing device only crimps closure caps that are correctly placed on a container. Furthermore, the control device can transfer a container that has been inspected and found to be incorrectly sealed to a discharge device using one of the handling devices. to eject the incorrectly sealed container or collect it in a collection container.

[0032] In other words, according to the invention, a control device with a camera system is integrated into the closing device, whereby the container and the closure cap are inspected. In particular, the closing process in the closing device can be optically monitored and controlled by means of this control device. In previous solutions, the optical inspection of closed containers was not carried out in the closing device, but only in subsequent stations, for example by means of a camera system using several cameras to image the container from different angles, or in separate inspection machines downstream in the production process. By means of the control device according to the invention, the inspection takes place directly and immediately in the closing device. In this way, the control of the closing process is improved.

[0033] The task posed at the beginning is thus completely solved.

[0034] In a first embodiment of the aspects, the control device can further be configured to control one or more properties of a plug arranged in an opening of the container.

[0035] The plug can be a rubber plug. The plug can be inserted into the opening of the container. The container can in particular be provided with the plug inserted, in particular arranged at the crimping position. The properties of the plug can include a design and / or an arrangement of the plug, in particular on the container. The design of the plug can include, for example, a shape, a size, a color, a surface finish and / or a surface profile of the plug. The arrangement of the plug can, for example, include a position and / or an orientation of the plug. In this way, an inspection of the plug can also be carried out. The inspection of the plug can in particular take place before the closure cap is placed on the container. For example, a check can be carried out to determine whether the plug is correctly positioned on the container. In particular, the container can be placed at the crimping position with the plug inserted but without the closure cap. The plug can then be inspected. After this inspection, the closure cap can be placed on the container, for example, using a handling device of the barrier system. Then the crimping process can begin.

[0036] In a further embodiment of the aspects, the holding device can be configured to rotate the container at the crimping position about a vertical axis, in particular while the crimping device crimps the closure cap onto the container and / or the control device controls one or more properties of the container and / or the closure cap at the crimping position.

[0037] In particular, the holding device can rotate the container when the closure cap is arranged or placed on the container and / or when the plug is arranged or inserted in the opening of the container. In other words, the container can be rotated together with the plug and / or the closure cap. In particular, the container can be rotated together with the attached closure cap while the crimping device crimps the closure cap. By rotating the container and the closure cap during crimping, the closure cap is crimped all the way around. Furthermore, the container, in particular together with the plug and / or the closure cap, can be rotated while the inspection device carries out the inspection. By rotating the container during the inspection, the camera system can capture different areas of the container, the closure cap and / or the plug.

[0038] In a further embodiment of the aspects, the holding device can have a receiving element for receiving the container.

[0039] The receiving element serves to receive the container. The receiving element can be designed, for example, as a turntable or a plate with a holder for a container. A container received in the receiving element is The container is arranged in the crimping position. This allows the container to be easily positioned in the crimping position.

[0040] In a further embodiment of the aspects, the holding device can have a counter element, wherein the container can be arranged between the receiving element and the counter element at the flanging position, in particular wherein the receiving element and the counter element are spaced apart from one another in a vertical direction.

[0041] The counter element can preferably be arranged vertically above the receiving element. In particular, the container with the attached closure cap can be held between the receiving element and the counter element. In this way, the container with the closure cap can be easily positioned and held in the crimping position.

[0042] In a further embodiment of the aspects, the holding device can further comprise a drive device for rotationally and / or translationally moving the receiving element and / or the counter-element, in particular wherein the drive device is configured to move the receiving element and / or the counter-element in a vertical direction and / or to rotate it about a vertical axis.

[0043] The drive device can, for example, move the receiving element and / or the counter-element translationally in order to change the distance between the receiving element and the counter-element. For example, the distance can be reduced in order to hold the container between the receiving element and the counter-element. The translational movement preferably takes place in the vertical direction. The movement in the vertical direction can also be referred to as a lifting movement. The drive device can also move the receiving element and / or the counter-element rotationally in order to change the arrangement of the container and the closure cap placed thereon relative to the camera system and / or to achieve a circumferentially uniform crimp during crimping. The rotational movement preferably takes place around a vertical axis.

[0044] In a further embodiment of the aspects, the drive device can be configured to move the receiving element and the counter-element relative to each other between a first arrangement and a second arrangement, wherein the container can be received in the receiving element in the first arrangement, wherein the container can be held between the receiving element and the counter-element in the flanging position in the second arrangement.

[0045] In other words, the drive device can adjust the distance between the receiving element and the counter-element. In the first arrangement, the container, in particular with the closure cap attached, can be received in the receiving element. In the first arrangement, the container and the closure cap can be spaced from the counter-element. The first arrangement thus serves to receive the container. In the second arrangement, the receiving element is arranged closer to the counter-element than in the first arrangement. In the second arrangement, the container with the closure cap attached can be pressed against the counter-element. As a result, the container, together with the closure cap attached, is held in the flanging position. The second arrangement thus serves to hold the container in the flanging position. Flanging preferably takes place when the container is held in the second arrangement.In particular, in the second arrangement, the closure cap can be pressed against the container, in particular against the plug arranged in the opening, with a defined force. This ensures that the container is tightly closed.

[0046] In a further embodiment of the aspects, the drive device can be configured to rotate the receiving element and / or the counter element about a vertical axis, in particular while the crimping device crimps the closure cap onto the container.

[0047] In particular, the drive device can be configured to rotate the receiving element about a vertical axis when the container with the closure cap in place is received in the receiving element and thus arranged in the crimping position. The rotation occurs in particular when the receiving element and the counter element are arranged in the second arrangement. The drive device can, for example, Rotate the receiving element around the vertical axis. The counter element can then be mounted so it can rotate freely around the vertical axis. If a container is held between the receiving element and the counter element and the receiving element is rotated, the counter element rotates with it. Alternatively, the drive device can also rotate the counter element around the vertical axis. The receiving element can then be mounted so it can rotate freely around the vertical axis. Alternatively, the drive device can also rotate the receiving element and the counter element simultaneously around the vertical axis. By rotating the receiving element and / or the counter element during crimping, the closure cap is crimped all the way around.

[0048] In a further embodiment of the aspects, the flanging device can have a flanging element, wherein the flanging element is movable into a working position in which the flanging element is pressed against the closure cap.

[0049] The flanging element can be mounted so as to be movable, in particular pivotable, between a working position and a waiting position. The flanging device can, for example, have a drive device configured to move the flanging element between the working position and the waiting position. In the working position, the flanging element is pressed against the closure cap for flanging. The working position thus serves to flang the closure cap. In the waiting position, the flanging element is arranged at a distance from the closure cap. The flanging element can preferably be a flanging disc or a flanging roller. The flanging element can be mounted so as to be freely rotatable about a preferably vertical axis.

[0050] In a further embodiment of the aspects, the control device can be configured to control the arrangement of the closure cap and / or the container and / or the plug at the crimping position.

[0051] Holding or crimping at the crimping position should preferably only be performed when the container is positioned at the crimping position with the closure cap in place. The control device can check whether the container is positioned at the crimping position. Furthermore, the control device can check whether the plug is arranged at the flanging position on the container. Furthermore, the control device can check whether the closure cap is arranged at the flanging position on the container. Preferably, the holding device and the flanging device are controlled such that they only carry out the holding and flanging when the container and the closure cap, in particular the container with the plug inserted and the closure cap on, are arranged at the flanging position. Furthermore, the control device can check whether the container and / or the plug and / or the closure cap are correctly arranged at the flanging position. For this purpose, it can be determined, for example, whether the arrangement of the container and / or the plug and / or the closure cap corresponds to a predetermined arrangement.If the closure cap and / or the container and / or the plug are not positioned correctly at the crimping position, this can result in the closure cap being crimped incorrectly or the container being closed incorrectly. The inspection device can check the position of the closure cap and / or the container and / or the plug at the crimping position, in particular before crimping or before holding. Preferably, the holding device and the crimping device are controlled in such a way that they only perform the holding and crimping when the container, the plug, and the closure cap are correctly positioned at the crimping position.

[0052] In a further embodiment of the aspects, the control device can be configured to control the configuration of the closure cap and / or the container and / or the stopper at the crimping position.

[0053] In particular, the control device can check whether the correct container and / or the correct stopper and / or the correct closure cap are arranged at the crimping position. To do so, the control device can, for example, compare the design of the container and / or the stopper and / or the closure cap with a predetermined design. For example, the control device can compare the shape, size and / or color of the container and / or the stopper and / or the closure cap with a predetermined shape, size or color. An identification feature, such as a code, can also be applied to the container and / or the stopper and / or the closure cap, via which the container, the stopper and the closure cap can be identified by means of the control device. The code can, for example, be a data matrix code. The data matrix code can, in particular, be arranged or printed on a cap jacket of the closure cap. The check to see whether the correct container and / or the correct plug and / or the correct closure cap are arranged in the crimping position can preferably be carried out before holding and / or crimping. Furthermore, the check device can check whether the container and / or the plug and / or the closure cap have a defect, such as a crack, dent or scratch. This check can be carried out before holding and / or crimping or after holding and / or crimping. Furthermore, the check device can check whether the closure cap has been correctly crimped onto the container. For this purpose, the check device can, for example, check the shape of the closure cap.In particular, it can check whether the closure cap has been correctly crimped onto the container. To do this, the inspection device can check whether the crimp is even all the way around and / or whether the lower edge of the crimped wall of the closure cap is level, i.e., linear, all the way around. This check can be performed during or after crimping.

[0054] In a further embodiment of the aspects, the control device can be configured to control the flanging quality of the flanging, in particular wherein the control device is configured to control the flanging quality during flanging or after flanging.

[0055] The crimping quality describes how well the closure cap is crimped onto the container. In particular, the crimping quality can describe whether the container is correctly closed with the closure cap. In particular, the control device can determine whether the closure cap is arranged in a predetermined position, in particular position and / or orientation, on the container after crimping. If the closure cap is not arranged in the specified position, the container is incorrectly closed. In other words, the crimping quality is poor. Furthermore, the control device can also determine whether the shape of the closure cap in the crimping area of ​​the container corresponds to a predetermined shape. By crimping, the closure cap is deformed in the crimping area of ​​the container. The deformation should be as uniform as possible. In particular, it can be determined whether the crimp the closure cap is uniform all the way around in the crimping area. If the shape of the closure cap in the crimping area of ​​the container does not correspond to the predetermined shape, in particular if the crimping in the crimping area is not uniform, the container is faultily sealed. If the arrangement of the closure cap and / or the shape of the closure cap in the crimping area deviates from the predetermined arrangement or If the edges correspond to the shape, the container is correctly sealed. The crimping quality is then good. In this way, the inspection device can visually check whether the crimping quality is good or sufficient, in particular whether the container is correctly or correctly sealed. Incorrectly crimped or incorrectly sealed containers can then be rejected or separated in the barrier system downstream of the closing device. For example, one of the handling devices can transfer incorrectly sealed containers to a collection container.

[0056] In a further embodiment of the aspects, the camera system may comprise one or more cameras configured to capture or record one or more images of the closure cap and / or the container and / or the stopper at the crimping position, wherein the control device is configured to control the one or more properties of the container and / or the closure cap and / or the stopper on the basis of the one or more images.

[0057] Each camera captures at least one image of the container and / or the closure cap at the crimping position. Each camera can also capture multiple images of the container and / or the closure cap at the crimping position. These images can preferably be captured sequentially, in particular at regular intervals, preferably during the container closure process. The optical inspection is then performed based on the captured images.

[0058] In a further embodiment of the aspects, the control device can be configured to determine, on the basis of the one or more images, whether the container and / or the closure cap and / or the stopper are arranged at the crimping position, preferably in a predetermined arrangement.

[0059] In particular, based on the captured images, the control device can determine whether the container and the closure cap are positioned at the crimping position and / or whether the container and the closure cap are positioned correctly at the crimping position, preferably in a predetermined arrangement. For this purpose, the control device can, for example, evaluate the captured images.

[0060] In a further embodiment of the aspects, the control device can be configured to determine, on the basis of the one or more images, whether the design of the container and / or the stopper and / or the closure cap corresponds to a predetermined design.

[0061] In particular, the inspection device can check whether the correct container and / or the correct stopper and / or the correct closure cap are positioned at the crimping position. Furthermore, the inspection device can check whether the container and / or the stopper and / or the closure cap are defective. Furthermore, the inspection device can check whether the closure cap has been correctly crimped onto the container. To check the design of the container and / or the stopper and / or the closure cap, the inspection device can, for example, evaluate the captured images.

[0062] In a further embodiment of the aspects, the control device can be configured to determine the flanging quality of the flanging on the basis of the one or more images, in particular wherein the control device is configured to check the flanging quality during flanging or after flanging.

[0063] In particular, the inspection device can determine, based on the captured images, whether the container is correctly sealed with the cap or whether the flange is flawless. For example, it can determine whether the cap is correctly positioned on the container and whether the flange is uniform all the way around. For this purpose, the inspection device can, for example, evaluate the captured images.

[0064] In a further embodiment of the aspects, a camera of the camera system can be configured to successively capture a plurality of images of the closure cap and / or the container at the crimping position while the holding device rotates the container at the crimping position about the vertical axis, wherein the control device is configured to control the one or more properties of the container and / or the closure cap and / or the stopper on the basis of the plurality of images, in particular wherein the control device is configured to determine the design of the closure cap and / or the container and / or the stopper, in particular the crimping quality of the crimping, on the basis of the plurality of images.

[0065] In other words, the camera system captures the plurality of images while the container is rotated at the crimping position by means of the holding device. The images thus depict different sections of the container and the closure cap. In particular, the circumferential, crimped area of ​​the closure cap can be completely captured using the captured images. Based on the captured images, it can then be determined whether the crimp is uniform all the way around. In this way, the crimping quality can be determined directly during the crimping process. The images can also be combined into a single, continuous image depicting the unfolded circumference of the closure cap, with the inspection device evaluating the continuous image to determine the crimping quality.

[0066] In a further embodiment of the aspects, the camera system can be arranged laterally next to the flanging position.

[0067] The camera system, in particular the camera of the camera system, is preferably arranged in the vertical direction substantially at the same height as the flanging position. The camera system is preferably arranged horizontally spaced from the flanging position. The image plane of the camera is preferably aligned parallel to the vertical direction. In other words, the viewing direction of the camera can preferably be perpendicular to the vertical direction. In particular, the camera system, in particular the camera of the camera system, can be arranged adjacent to the flanging device and / or the holding device. The flanging area of ​​the container is preferably also arranged vertically. The flanging area can therefore be captured particularly well in this configuration.

[0068] In a further embodiment of the aspects, the closing device can have a plurality of holding devices and a plurality of flanging devices, wherein each holding device is configured to hold a container at a respective flanging position, wherein each flanging device is configured to flang a closure cap at the respective flanging position onto the respective container, and wherein the optical control device is configured to control each container and / or each closure cap and / or each stopper at the respective flanging position, in particular wherein the camera system has a plurality of cameras, wherein each camera is configured to capture one or more images of the closure cap and / or the container and / or the stopper at a respective flanging position, wherein the control device is configured toto inspect each container and / or cap and / or stopper based on one or more images from the cameras.

[0069] The closing device is preferably designed to close two containers simultaneously, each with a closure cap. For this purpose, the closing device can have two holding devices and two crimping devices, each of which holds the respective container at a corresponding crimping position and crimps the respective closure cap onto the container. The camera system can have two cameras, each camera being assigned to a crimping position and capturing one or more images of the container and the closure cap arranged at the corresponding crimping position. The camera system can preferably be arranged between the two holding devices.

[0070] In a further embodiment of the aspects, the control device can, in the step of controlling, control one or more properties of a plug arranged in an opening of the container.

[0071] As previously described, the plug can also be checked in this way.

[0072] In a further embodiment of the aspects, the method may comprise the following step: Rotating the container at the crimping position by means of the holding device about a vertical axis, in particular while the crimping device crimps the closure cap onto the container and / or the control device controls one or more properties of the container and / or the closure cap at the crimping position.

[0073] In particular, the holding device can rotate the container when the closure cap is arranged or placed on the container and / or when the plug is arranged or inserted in the opening of the container. In other words, the container can be rotated together with the plug and / or the closure cap. In particular, the container can be rotated together with the attached closure cap while the crimping device crimps the closure cap. By rotating the container and the closure cap during crimping, the closure cap is crimped all the way around. Furthermore, the container, in particular together with the plug and / or the closure cap, can be rotated while the inspection device carries out the inspection. By rotating the container during the inspection, the camera system can capture different areas of the container, the closure cap and / or the plug.

[0074] In a further embodiment of the aspects, the camera system may comprise one or more cameras, wherein the one or more cameras capture one or more images of the closure cap and / or the container and / or the stopper at the crimping position, wherein the control device controls the one or more properties of the container and / or the closure cap and / or the stopper on the basis of the one or more images.

[0075] Each camera captures at least one image of the container and / or the closure cap at the crimping position. Each camera can also capture multiple images of the container and / or the closure cap at the crimping position. These images can preferably be captured sequentially, in particular at regular intervals, preferably during the closing of the container. The optical inspection is then performed based on the captured images.

[0076] It is understood that the features mentioned above and those to be explained below can be used not only in the combination specified in each case, but also in other combinations or on their own, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0077] Embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the drawings and explained in more detail in the following description. They show: Fig. 1 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a closing device; Fig. 2 is an isometric view of a rear side of the closure device of Fig. 1; Fig. 3 is a plan view of a front side of the closing device of Fig. 1; Fig. 4 is a plan view of an upper side of the closing device from Fig. 1; Fig. 5 is an isometric view of the closing device from Fig. 1 without control device; Fig. 6 is a plan view of a front side of the closing device of Fig. 1 without control device; Fig. 7 is an isometric view of a control device of the closing device from Fig. 1; Fig. 8 is a plan view of a front side of the control device of Fig. 7; Fig. 9A is a view of a container; Fig. 9B is a view of a plug; Fig. 9C is a view of a closure cap; Fig. 10 is a view of a container with a closure cap in place; Fig. 11 is a plan view of a front side of the closure device of Fig. 1 in a first arrangement with a received container and without the control device; Fig. 12 is a plan view of a front side of the closing device of Fig. 1 in a second arrangement with a container held at a flanging position and without the control device; Fig. 13 the view from Fig. 12 with the control device; Fig. 14 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a barrier system; and Fig. 15 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a method.

[0078] Figures 1 to 4 show an embodiment of a closure device, designated in its entirety by reference numeral 10. The closure device 10 serves to close a container with a closure cap. The closure device 10 can be arranged in a restricted-access environment, in particular in an isolator. The closure device 10 can, in particular, be part of a barrier system.

[0079] With respect to the closure device 10, a vertical direction 64, a first direction 66, and a second direction 68 are defined. The first direction 66 and the second direction 68 run perpendicular to the vertical direction 64. The first direction 66 and the second direction 68 thus run horizontally. The first direction 66 runs perpendicular to the second direction 68.

[0080] The closing device 10 serves to close containers with a closure cap. The closing device 10 has a first holding device 12, a first crimping device 14, and an optical control device 16. The first holding device 12 and the first crimping device 14 serve to close a first container with a first closure cap. The optical control device 16 serves to monitor one or more properties of the first container and / or the first closure cap. The optical control device 16 can also monitor one or more properties of a first plug, which can be arranged in an opening of the first container.

[0081] The first holding device 12 is configured to hold the first container with the first closure cap at a first crimping position. The first crimping device 14 is configured to crimp the first closure cap onto the first container at the crimping position. The crimping secures the closure cap to the container.

[0082] The first holding device 12 has a first receiving element 20 and a first counter-element 22. The first receiving element 20 serves to receive the first container. The first receiving element 20 and the first counter-element 22 are spaced apart from one another in the vertical direction 64. The first counter-element 22 is arranged above the first receiving element 20 in the vertical direction 64. The first counter-element 22 is arranged above the first crimping position in the vertical direction 64. The first receiving element 20 is arranged below the first crimping position in the vertical direction 64.

[0083] The first container can be arranged between the first receiving element 20 and the first counter-element 22 at the first crimping position. In particular, the first container with the first closure cap can be held between the first receiving element 20 and the first counter-element 22 at the crimping position. For this purpose, the first receiving element 20 and / or the first counter-element 22 can be designed to be movable in the vertical direction 64.

[0084] Furthermore, the first holding device 12 is configured to rotate the first container at the first crimping position about a vertical axis. In particular, the first holding device 12 can rotate the first container about the vertical axis while the first crimping device 14 crimps the first closure cap onto the first container. In particular, the first receiving element 20 and / or the first counter element 22 can be configured to rotate about the vertical axis for this purpose.

[0085] The first crimping device 14 has a first crimping element 24 for crimping. The first crimping element can, in particular, be a crimping disc. The first crimping element 24 can be pressed against the first closure cap for crimping, while the first container with the first closure cap is held in the first crimping position and rotated about the vertical axis.

[0086] The first flanging element 24 is movable between a waiting position and a working position. In the working position, the first flanging element 24 is pressed against the first closure cap for flanging. In the waiting position, the first flanging element 24 is arranged at a distance from the first closure cap. In other words, the first flanging element 24 is arranged closer to the first flanging position in the working position than in the waiting position. In Figures 1 to 4, the first flanging element 24 is arranged in the waiting position. In the waiting position, the first flanging element 24 is preferably spaced in the first direction 66 from the first flanging position, in particular from the first receiving element 20 and the first counter element 22. In particular, the first flanging element 24 is arranged next to the first flanging position in the first direction 66.

[0087] The optical inspection device 16 is configured to optically inspect the first closure cap and / or the first container and / or the first stopper, preferably during the closing process. In particular, the inspection device monitors one or more properties of the first container and / or the first closure cap and / or the first stopper.

[0088] For visual inspection, the inspection device 16 has a camera system 17. The camera system 17 is particularly configured to capture a spatial detection area 18. The first crimping position is located within the detection area 18. In other words, the first container and the first closure cap are located in the detection area 18 when they are located at the first crimping position.

[0089] The camera system 17 is arranged in the vertical direction 64 substantially at the same height as the first flanging position. The camera system 17 is spaced apart from the first flanging position, in particular from the first receiving element 20 and the first counter element 22, in the second direction 68. In particular, the camera system 17 is arranged laterally next to the first flanging position in the second direction 68.

[0090] The closing device 10 can, in particular, process or close two containers simultaneously. For this purpose, the closing device 10 can have a second holding device 12' and a second flanging device 14'. In particular, the second holding device 12' and the second flanging device 14' can serve to close a second container with a second closure cap. The optical control device 16 can further serve to monitor the closing process of the first container and the second container. A second plug can be arranged in an opening of the second container. The second container can be closed at a second flanging position by means of the second holding device 12' and the second flanging device 14'.In particular, the second holding device 12' can hold the second container at the second crimping position, and the second crimping device 14' can crimp the second closure cap onto the second container at the second crimping position. The second crimping position can preferably be in the first direction 66 from the first crimping position. In particular, the second flanging position can be arranged adjacent to the first flanging position in the first direction 66.

[0091] The second holding device 12' and the second flanging device 14' have essentially the same structure and the same function as the first holding device 12 and the first flanging device 14. In particular, the second holding device 12' has a second receiving element 20' and a second counter element 22'. Furthermore, the second flanging device 14' has a second flanging element 24'.

[0092] The inspection device 16 can, in particular, inspect the respective containers and / or closure caps and / or stoppers at both flanging positions. In particular, the inspection device 16 can optically inspect both closure caps and / or both containers during the closing process. The camera system 17 can detect the first container at the first flanging position in the first detection area 18. The camera system 17 can detect the second container at the second flanging position in a second detection area 18'. Alternatively, the camera system 17 can also detect both containers at both flanging positions in a common detection area 18.

[0093] The holding device 12 and the flanging device 14 as well as their arrangement in the closing device 10 are shown in Figures 5 and 6.

[0094] The closing device 10 has a first support structure 26. The first receiving element 20 is arranged on the first support structure 26. In particular, the first support structure 26 carries the first receiving element 20. The first receiving element 20 is mounted on the first support structure 26 so as to be movable in the vertical direction 64. As a result, the first receiving element 20 can be moved relative to the first counter-element 22. In particular, the first receiving element 20 can be moved relative to the first counter-element 22 between a first arrangement and a second arrangement. In the second arrangement, the first receiving element 20 is arranged closer to the first counter-element 22 than in the first arrangement. In the first arrangement, the first receiving element 20 and the first counter-element 22 are spaced apart from one another so that the first container can be received in the first receiving element 20 and the first closure cap can be placed on top. Alternatively, the closure cap can already be placed on the container before the container is arranged or received in the receiving element 20. In this case, the first receiving element 20 and the first counter-element 22 are spaced apart from one another in the first arrangement so far that the first container with the closure cap placed on it can be received in the first receiving element 20. In the second arrangement, the first receiving element 20 and the first counter-element 22 are moved so close to one another that the first container can be held in the first flanging position between the first receiving element 20 and the first counter-element 22 in the second arrangement. Furthermore, the first receiving element 20 is also mounted on the first support structure 26 so that it can rotate about a vertical axis.

[0095] The first holding device 12 can have a drive device 28. The drive device 28 can be configured to move the first receiving element 20 in the vertical direction 64 and / or to rotate it about the vertical axis. The first holding device 12 can have a first rod 30. The first receiving element 20 is mounted on the first support structure 26 via the first rod 30 so that it can be moved in the vertical direction 64 and / or can rotate about the vertical axis. The first receiving element 20 is arranged at a first, upper end of the first rod 30. A second, lower end of the first rod 30 is mounted on the first support structure 26 so that it can be moved in the vertical direction 64 and / or can rotate about the vertical axis. The drive device 28 can be configured to move the first rod 30 in the vertical direction 64 and / or to rotate the first rod 30 about the vertical axis.

[0096] The closing device 10 has a second support structure 32. The first counter element 22 is arranged on the second support structure 32. In particular, the second support structure 32 supports the first counter element 22. The first counter element 22 can be mounted on the support structure 32 so as to be freely rotatable about a vertical axis. Furthermore, the first flanging element 24 can also be arranged on the second support structure 32. In particular, the first flanging element 24 can be mounted on the second support structure 32 so as to be pivotable about a vertical axis. In particular, the first flanging element 24 can be pivoted between the waiting position and the working position.

[0097] The first flanging device 14 can have a drive device 34. The drive device 34 can be configured to pivot the first flanging element 24 between the waiting position and the working position. The first flanging device 14 can have a first arm 36. The first flanging element 24 is pivotally mounted on the second support structure 32, in particular via the first arm 36. The first flanging element 24 is arranged at a first end of the first arm 36, in particular freely rotatable about a vertical axis. A second end of the first arm 36 is rotatably mounted on the second support structure 32 about a vertical axis. The drive device 34 can be configured to rotate the first arm 36 about the vertical axis.

[0098] In particular, the second holding device 12' can have a drive device 28' for moving the second receiving element 20' and a second rod 30'. The second receiving element 20' and the second rod 30' can be arranged or mounted on the first support structure 26. The second counter element 22' can be arranged or mounted on a further support structure 32'. Furthermore, the second flanging device 14' has a drive device 34' for moving the second flanging element 24' and a second arm 36'. The second flanging element 24' and the second arm 36' can be arranged or mounted on the further support structure 32'.

[0099] The control device 16 is shown in Figures 7 and 8. The control device 16 has a base body 38. The camera system 17 is arranged in the vertical direction 64 in an upper part of the base body 38.

[0100] The camera system 17 has a first camera 40. The first camera 40 faces the first flanging position. The first camera 40 is arranged in the vertical direction 64 substantially at the same height as the first flanging position. A viewing direction of the first camera 40 preferably runs parallel to the second direction 68.

[0101] The first camera 40 is configured to record an image of the first detection area 18. In other words, the first camera 40 is configured to record one or to capture or record multiple images of the first closure cap and / or the first container at the first crimping position. The inspection device 16 can then check one or more properties of the first container and / or the first closure cap and / or the first stopper based on the one or more images.

[0102] The camera system 17 may further include a second camera 40'. The second camera 40' is arranged adjacent to the first camera 40 in the first direction 66. The second camera 40' faces the second flanging position. The second camera 40' is arranged substantially at the same height as the second flanging position in the vertical direction 64. A viewing direction of the second camera 40' preferably runs parallel to the second direction 68.

[0103] The second camera 40' is configured to capture an image of the second detection area 18'. In other words, the second camera 40' is configured to capture or record one or more images of the second closure cap and / or the second container at the second crimping position. The inspection device 16 can then, based on the one or more images, inspect one or more properties of the second container and / or the second closure cap and / or the second stopper.

[0104] Alternatively, the camera system 17 can also have only one camera 40 that can capture both detection areas 18, 18'.

[0105] Fig. 9A shows a closure cap 48. The closure cap 48 can, in particular, be a crimp cap. The closure cap 48 is sleeve-shaped, with one end closed. The closure cap 48 has a circumferential wall 50.

[0106] Fig. 9B shows a plug 51. The plug has a projection 53. The plug may have a lip 55 surrounding the projection 53. The plug may be a rubber plug.

[0107] Fig. 9c shows a container 52. The container 52 can be a pharmaceutical or cosmetic container. The container 52 can, in particular, be an ampoule or a vial. The container 52 has an opening 54. The container 52 can be filled with a pharmaceutical or cosmetic product. The container has a flanged area 56.

[0108] The flanged region 56 preferably extends circumferentially around the container 52. The flanged region can, for example, have a recess, a depression, or a groove. The flanged region 56 can be arranged below the opening 54.

[0109] The closure cap 48 can preferably be crimped in the crimped region 56 of the container 52. When the closure cap 48 is placed on the container 52, the closure cap 48 can extend from the opening 54 to the crimped region 56. The crimping process presses the closure cap 48 against or into the crimped region 56 in the region of the crimped region 56. In particular, a lower edge of the wall 50 can be pressed into the crimped region 56. This holds the closure cap 48 on the container 52.

[0110] Fig. 10 shows an arrangement in which the closure cap 48 is arranged on the container 52, in particular is placed thereon. The closure cap 48 is arranged on the opening 54. The closure cap 48 completely covers the opening 54 and extends as far as the flanged area 56. The circumferential wall 50 surrounds the flanged area 56. In other words, the wall 50 extends circumferentially around the flanged area 56. The plug 51 can be arranged or inserted in the opening 54. The projection 53 can extend into the opening 54. The lip 55 can rest circumferentially on the edge of the opening 54. The plug 51 is then also covered by the closure cap 48.

[0111] When the closure cap 48 is arranged on the container 52, the closure cap 48 can be crimped in the crimping area 56 of the container 52. In particular, the wall 50 can be pressed circumferentially into or against the crimping area 56.

[0112] In particular, the container 52 with the closure cap 48 attached can be arranged at the first or second crimping position in order to close the container 52 by means of the respective holding device 12, 12' and crimping device 14, 14'. The closing of the container 52 with the closure cap 48 at the first crimping position 62 is described below. The container 52 is referred to below as the first container. The closure cap 48 is referred to below as the first closure cap. The closing of a second container 52' ​​with a second closure cap 48' at the second crimping position 62' can be carried out accordingly.

[0113] In order to arrange each container 52, 52' at the respective flanging position 62, 62', each receiving element 20, 20' and each counter-element 22, 22' are arranged in a first arrangement 58. In Figures 1 to 6 and 11, the receiving elements 20, 20' and the counter-elements 22, 22' are arranged in the first arrangement 58.

[0114] In the first arrangement 58, the receiving element 20, 20' and the corresponding counter-element 22, 22' are spaced apart from one another sufficiently far that the corresponding container 52, 52' can be arranged or received in the receiving element 20, 20' and the corresponding closure cap 48, 48' can be placed on the respective container 52, 52'. For this purpose, the respective drive device 28, 28' can move the receiving element 20, 20' and / or the counter-element 22, 22' relative to one another. In particular, the drive device 28, 28' can move the receiving element 20, 20' in the vertical direction away from the counter-element 22, 22'. In this way, the respective receiving element 20, 20' and the corresponding counter-element 22, 22' can be brought into the first arrangement 58.

[0115] When the respective receiving element 20, 20' and the corresponding counter-element 22, 22' are arranged in the first arrangement 58, the corresponding container 52, 52' can be arranged in or on the corresponding receiving element 20, 20' and the corresponding closure cap 48, 48' can be placed on the container 52, 52'. This state is illustrated in Fig. 11.

[0116] Each container 52, 52' can be arranged in or on the corresponding receiving element 20, 20', in particular by means of a handling device. Furthermore, the respective closure cap 48, 48' can then be placed on the corresponding container 52, 52' by means of a handling device.

[0117] To hold each container 52, 52' at the respective crimping position 62, each receiving element 20, 20' and each counter-element 22, 22' can be brought into the second arrangement 60. In Fig. 12, each receiving element 20, 20' and each counter-element 22, 22' are arranged in the second arrangement 60. In the second arrangement 60, the receiving element 20, 20' and the corresponding counter-element 22, 22' are arranged so close to one another that the respective container 52, 52' and the respective closure cap 48, 48' are held between the receiving element 20, 20' and the corresponding counter-element 22, 22'. In particular, the counter element 22, 22' rests against the corresponding closure cap 48, 48' and presses it against the corresponding container 52, 52', in particular in the direction of the opening 54. For this purpose, the respective drive device 28, 28' can move the receiving element 20, 20' and / or the counter element 22, 22' accordingly relative to one another.In particular, the drive device 28, 28' can move the receiving element 20, 20' in the vertical direction toward the counter element 22, 22'. In this way, the receiving element 20 and the corresponding counter element 22, 22' can be brought into the second arrangement 60.

[0118] When the respective receiving element 20, 20' and the corresponding counter element 22, 22' are arranged in the second arrangement 60, the corresponding container 52, 52' and the corresponding closure cap 48, 48' are held at the respective crimping position 62, 62'. This is illustrated in Fig. 12.

[0119] To crimp the respective closure cap 48, 48', the corresponding crimping element 24, 24' can then be moved into the working position. This presses the respective crimping element 24, 24' against the wall 50 of the respective closure cap 48, 48'. The wall 50 is thereby pressed into the crimping area 56 of the respective container 52, 52'. During the crimping process, the respective holding device 12, 12' then rotates the container 52, 52' together with the corresponding closure element 48, 48'. This presses the wall 50 all the way around into the crimping area 56. This the respective closure cap 48, 48' is flanged all the way around the corresponding container 52, 52'.

[0120] As previously described, each camera 40, 40' is configured to capture one or more images of the respective container 52, 52' and the respective closure cap 48, 48' at the corresponding crimping position 62, 62'. The first crimping position 62 is located within the detection range 18 of the first camera 40. The second crimping position 62' is located within the detection range 18' of the second camera 40'. This is illustrated in Fig. 13.

[0121] Based on the captured images, the inspection device 16 can, for example, check the arrangement of the closure cap 48, 48' and / or the container 52, 52' at the respective flanging position 62, 62'. In particular, it can be checked whether the container 52, 52' and / or the closure cap 48, 48' are arranged at the respective flanging position 62, 62'. In particular, the inspection device 16 can determine, based on the one or more images, whether the container and / or the closure cap are arranged at the flanging position, preferably in a predetermined arrangement. Furthermore, it can also be checked whether the respective closure cap 48, 48' is correctly arranged on the container 52, 52'. This check can be carried out before, during, and after flanging.

[0122] Based on the captured images, the inspection device 16 can also monitor the quality of the flanging process. In particular, the inspection device 16 can determine, based on the captured images, whether the respective container 52, 52' is correctly sealed with the respective closure cap 48, 48' or whether the flanging is flawless. For example, it can be determined whether the closure cap 48, 48' is correctly positioned on the container 52, 52' and whether the flanging is uniform all the way around.

[0123] Furthermore, each camera 40, 40' can also capture several images consecutively while the respective container 52, 52' and the respective closure cap 48, 48' are rotated during crimping. The images then form, in particular, the circumferential crimp. completely. Based on these images, it can then be determined whether the flanging is uniform all the way around.

[0124] Fig. 14 shows an embodiment of a barrier system, designated in its entirety by reference numeral 70. The barrier system 70 includes a restricted-access environment 72. The barrier system 70 may be an isolator system. The restricted-access environment 72 may be an isolator.

[0125] The barrier system 70 includes the closure device 10, which is described in connection with Figures 1 to 13. The closure device 10 is arranged in the restricted-access environment 72.

[0126] The barrier system 70 may include a closing station 74 in the restricted access environment 72, wherein the closing device 10 is part of the closing station 74. In the closing station 74, the containers 52 may be closed with the closure caps 48.

[0127] The barrier system 70 may further include a feeder 76 by which the closure caps 48 can be fed and provided in the restricted access environment 72.

[0128] The barrier system 70 can further comprise a first station 78. In the first station 78, the containers 52 are provided without closure caps. The containers 52 are preferably filled with a pharmaceutical or cosmetic product. The first station 78 can be a filling station in which the containers are filled with the pharmaceutical or cosmetic product. The first station 78 can also be a stoppering station in which a stopper can be inserted into the opening 54 of the filled containers 52. The first station 78 can also be a transfer station at which filled containers, in particular containers provided with a stopper, can be arranged or transferred.

[0129] The barrier system 70 may further include a second station 80. Containers 52 sealed with a closure cap 48 are arranged in the first station 80. The second station 80 may, for example, be a transfer station where the sealed containers can be arranged or transferred.

[0130] The barrier system 70 can further comprise one or more handling devices 82. The handling devices 82 can be configured to handle the containers 52 and / or the closure caps 48. For example, one of the handling devices 82 can be configured to transfer the containers 52 from the first station 78 to the closing station. In particular, this handling device 82 can arrange the containers 52 in the receiving element 20. Furthermore, one of the handling devices 82 can be configured to transfer the closure caps 48 from the feed device 76 to the closing station. In particular, this handling device 82 can place the closure caps 48 on the containers 52 in the closing station 74, for example, if they are arranged in the receiving element 20. Alternatively, the closure caps 48 can also be placed on the containers 52 before the closing station 74.Furthermore, one of the handling devices 82 can be configured to transfer the containers 52 closed with a closure cap 48 from the closing station to the second station 80.

[0131] The barrier system 70 may further include a control device 84. The control device 84 may be configured to control the handling devices 82. Furthermore, the control device 84 may also be configured to control the closing device 10. In particular, the control device 84 may, for example, control the holding device 12 and the flanging device 14.

[0132] The control device 84 can, in particular, control the closing device and / or the handling devices based on the optical control of the control device 16. For example, the control device 84 can control the closing device 10 based on the optical control such that the closing device 10 only carries out the crimping on closure caps that are correctly placed on a container. Furthermore, the control device 84 can the inspection has shown that it is incorrectly sealed, can be transferred by means of one of the handling devices 84 to a discharge device within the environment 72 in order to discharge the incorrectly sealed container or to collect it in a collection container.

[0133] Fig. 15 shows an embodiment of a method, designated in its entirety by the reference numeral 100. The method 100 serves to close a container 52 with a closure cap 48. The container 52 can be a pharmaceutical or cosmetic container. The container 52 can in particular be an ampoule or a vial. The closure cap 48 can in particular be a crimp cap. A plug 51 can be arranged or inserted in the opening 54 of the container 52. The closure cap 48 can be arranged or placed on the container 52. The method 100 can be carried out with the closure device 10 from Figures 1 to 13. The method 100 can in particular be carried out in the barrier system 70 from Fig. 14.

[0134] In a first step 102 of the method 100, the container 52 is held at a flanging position 62 by means of the holding device 12 of the closing device 10. In particular, one container 52, 52' can be held at the respective flanging position 62, 62' by means of the corresponding holding device 12, 12'.

[0135] In a further optional step 104 of the method 100, the container 52 can be rotated about a vertical axis at the flanging position 62 by means of the holding device 12.

[0136] In a further step 106 of the method 100, the closure cap 48 is crimped onto the container 52 at the crimping position 62 by means of the crimping device 14 of the closing device 10. In particular, a closure cap 48, 48' can be crimped onto the corresponding container 52, 52' at the respective crimping position 62, 62' by means of the corresponding crimping device 14, 14'.

[0137] The holding device 12 can rotate the container 52 and the closure cap 48 about the vertical axis during crimping. In particular, each holding device 12, 12' rotate the respective container 52, 52' and the corresponding closure cap 48, 48' around the respective vertical axis during flanging.

[0138] In a further step 108 of the method 100, one or more properties of the container 52 and / or the closure cap 48 and / or the plug 51 are checked at the crimping position 62 by means of the optical control device 16 of the closing device, wherein the control device comprises the camera system 17.

[0139] The holding device 12 can rotate the container 52 and the closure cap 48 about the vertical axis while the control device 16 controls one or more properties of the container 52 and / or the closure cap 48 at the crimping position 62.

[0140] In particular, the camera system 17 can have one or more cameras 40, 40', wherein the cameras 40, 40' capture one or more images of the closure caps 48, 48' and / or the container 52, 52' at the respective crimping position 62, 62', wherein the control device 16 controls the closing of the respective container 52, 52' on the basis of the one or more images.

[0141] Based on the captured images, the inspection device 16 can, for example, check the arrangement of the closure cap 48, 48' and / or the container 52, 52' at the respective crimping position 62, 62'. Based on the captured images, the inspection device 16 can also check the crimping quality.

Claims

Patent claims Closing device (10) for closing a container (52), in particular a pharmaceutical or cosmetic container, with a closure cap (48), wherein the closing device (10) has a holding device (12) and a flanging device (14), wherein the holding device (12) is designed to hold the container (52) at a flanging position (62), and wherein the flanging device (14) is designed to flang the closure cap (48) at the flanging position (62) onto the container (52), characterized in that the closing device (10) further has an optical control device (16) which is designed to control one or more properties of the container (52) and / or of the closure cap (48) at the flanging position (62), wherein the control device (16) has a camera system (17).The closing device (10) according to claim 1, wherein the control device (16) is further configured to control one or more properties of a plug (51) arranged in an opening (54) of the container (52). The closing device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the holding device (12) is configured to rotate the container (52) at the crimping position (62) about a vertical axis, in particular while the crimping device (14) crimps the closure cap (48) onto the container (52) and / or the control device (16) checks the one or more properties of the container (52) and / or the closure cap (48) at the crimping position (62).Closing device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the holding device (12) has a receiving element (20) for receiving the container (52), wherein the holding device (12) has a counter element (22), wherein the container (52) can be arranged between the receiving element (20) and the counter element (22) at the flanging position (62), in particular wherein the receiving element. element (20) and the counter-element (22) are spaced apart from one another in a vertical direction (64). Closing device (10) according to claim 4, wherein the holding device (12) further comprises a drive device (28) for rotationally and / or translationally moving the receiving element (20) and / or the counter-element (22), in particular wherein the drive device (28) is configured to move the receiving element (20) and / or the counter-element (22) in a vertical direction (64) and / or to rotate it about a vertical axis.The closing device (10) according to claim 5, wherein the drive device (28) is configured to move the receiving element (20) and the counter-element (22) relative to one another between a first arrangement (58) and a second arrangement (60), wherein the container (52) can be received in the receiving element (20) in the first arrangement (58), wherein the container (52) can be held in the second arrangement (60) between the receiving element (20) and the counter-element (22) at the crimping position (62). The closing device (10) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the drive device (28) is configured to rotate the receiving element (20) and / or the counter-element (22) about a vertical axis, in particular while the crimping device (14) crimps the closure cap (48) onto the container (52).The closing device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the crimping device (14) comprises a crimping element (24), the crimping element (24) being movable into a working position in which the crimping element (24) is pressed against the closure cap (48). The closing device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the control device (16) is configured to control the arrangement of the closure cap (48) and / or the container (52) and / or the plug (51) at the crimping position (62). The closing device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the control device (16) is configured to control the configuration of the closure cap (48) and / or the container (52) and / or the stopper (51) at the crimping position (62), in particular the crimping quality of the crimping. The closing device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the camera system (17) comprises one or more cameras (40, 40') configured to capture one or more images of the closure cap (48) and / or the container (52) and / or the stopper (51) at the crimping position (62), wherein the control device (16) is configured to control one or more properties of the container (52) and / or the closure cap (48) and / or the stopper (51) based on the one or more images.The closing device (10) according to claim 11, wherein the control device (16) is configured to determine, based on the one or more images, whether the container (52) and / or the closure cap (48) and / or the plug (51) are arranged at the crimping position (62), preferably in a predetermined arrangement. The closing device (10) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the control device (16) is configured to determine, based on the one or more images, whether the configuration of the closure cap (48) and / or the container (52) and / or the plug (51) corresponds to a predetermined configuration, in particular wherein the control device (16) is configured to determine the crimping quality of the crimping based on the one or more images.Closing device (10) according to one of claims 3 to 13, wherein a camera (40, 40') of the camera system (17) is configured to capture a plurality of images of the closure cap (48) and / or the container (52) at the flanging position (62) one after the other, while the holding device (12) rotates the container (52) at the flanging position (62) about the vertical axis, wherein the control device (16) is configured to, on the basis of the plurality of images, the one. or multiple properties of the container (52) and / or the closure cap (48) and / or the stopper (51), in particular wherein the control device (16) is configured to determine the configuration of the closure cap (48) and / or the container (52) and / or the stopper (51), in particular the flanging quality of the flanging, based on the plurality of images. Closing device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the camera system (17) is arranged laterally next to the flanging position (62). Closing device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the closing device (10) has a plurality of holding devices (12, 12') and a plurality of crimping devices (14, 14'), wherein each holding device (12, 12') is designed to hold a respective container (52, 52') at a corresponding crimping position (62, 62'), wherein each crimping device (14, 14') is designed to hold a respective closure cap (48,48') at the respective flanging position (62, 62') onto the respective container (52, 52'), and wherein the optical control device (16) is configured to control each container (52, 52') and / or each closure cap (48, 48') and / or each stopper (51) at the respective flanging position (62, 62'), in particular wherein the camera system (17) has a plurality of cameras (40, 40'), wherein each camera (40, 40') is configured to capture one or more images of the closure cap (48, 48') and / or the container (52, 52') and / or the stopper (51) at a respective flanging position (62, 62'), wherein the control device (16) is configured to, on the basis of the one or more images of the cameras (40, 40'), Container (52, 52') and / or each closure cap (48, 48') and / or each plug (51). Barrier system (70), in particular isolator system, wherein the barrier system (70) comprises an environment (72) with restricted access,in particular an insulator, and the closure device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 16, in particular wherein the closure device (10) is arranged in the environment (72) with restricted access., Method (100) for closing a container (52), in particular a pharmaceutical or cosmetic container, with a closure cap (48), the method (100) comprising the following steps: Holding (102) the container (52) at a flanging position (62) by means of a holding device (12) of a closing device (10); Crimping (106) the closure cap (48) at the crimping position (62) onto the container (52) by means of a crimping device (14) of the closure device (10); and Checking (108) one or more properties of the container (52) and / or the closure cap (48) at the crimping position (62) by means of an optical control device (16) of the closure device (10), wherein the control device (16) comprises a camera system (17). The method (100) according to claim 18, wherein in the checking step (108), the control device (16) checks one or more properties of a plug (51) arranged in an opening (54) of the container (52). The method (100) according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the method (100) comprises the following step: Rotating (104) the container (52) at the crimping position (62) by means of the holding device (12) about a vertical axis, in particular while the crimping device (14) crimps the closure cap (48) onto the container (52) and / or the control device (16) controls the one or more properties of the container (52) and / or the closure cap (48) at the crimping position (62). Method (100) according to one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the camera system (17) has one or more cameras (40, 40'), wherein the one or more Cameras (40, 40') capture one or more images of the closure cap (48) and / or the container (52) and / or the plug (51) at the crimping position (62), wherein the control device (16) controls the one or more properties of the container (52) and / or the closure cap (48) and / or the plug (51) on the basis of the one or more images.

Images