Device for filling containers and associated operating method

Abstract

The invention relates, inter alia, to a device (10) for filling containers (B) with a filling material. The device (10) comprises a filling element (12), a container support (24), and a first lifting device (26) connected to the container support (24) for vertically moving the container support (24) to raise and lower the supported container (B). The device (10) further comprises a cleaning cap (34) and a second lifting device (38) connected to the cleaning cap (34) for moving the cleaning cap (34) to cover the filling element (12). The device (10) further comprises a power supply unit (44) for driving the second lifting device (38), which has a connectable interface (46) with a first and second connecting piece (48, 50).

Description

Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a device for filling containers. The invention further relates to a method for operating the device for filling containers. Technical background

[0002] Filling devices for filling containers have been known in the art for a long time. It is also known in the art that such filling devices can be cleaned with a liquid cleaning agent as part of a cleaning process. This cleaning agent can, for example, be supplied via the product feed line and thus clean the individual filling elements. The cleaning agent can then be returned using a so-called CIP cap (CIP - cleaning in place) or cover.

[0003] A disadvantage of the known state of the art can be the comparatively large installation space required for the system to move the cleaning cap for the filling element, especially if the filling element also has an elongated filling level probe that is to be cleaned as well.

[0004] For reasons of installation space, it may therefore be desirable to integrate the cleaning cap into a single assembly with the container support, which holds the container during filling. However, if a lifting mechanism for moving the cleaning cap is to be integrated, supplying, for example, compressed air or electrical energy to this lifting mechanism becomes very problematic. For instance, flexible pneumatic hoses would have to travel a very large distance (e.g., approximately 130 mm) during filling if the container support is moved vertically by its own lifting mechanism. This would require a comparatively large hose loop.

[0005] A disadvantage of this solution is the risk of the hoses colliding with adjacent components. The pneumatic hoses would chafe over time. Container ruptures and the resulting shards could cut or damage the flexible hoses. The hoses can also present hygienic disadvantages, as they can be very difficult or impossible to clean thoroughly.

[0006] The invention is based on the objective of developing an improved technique for supplying a lifting device for a cleaning cap of a device for filling containers, with which preferably one or more of the above-mentioned disadvantages can be overcome. Summary of the invention

[0007] The problem is solved by the features of the independent claims. Advantageous further developments are specified in the dependent claims and the description.

[0008] One aspect concerns a device, preferably a rotary device, for filling containers with a product. The device comprises a filling element for filling a container and a container support, preferably a container support plate, for supporting the container during filling. The device further comprises a first lifting device connected to the container support for vertically moving the support to raise and lower the supported container, and a cleaning cap, preferably a CIP cleaning cap, for covering the filling element (e.g., from below) during cleaning. The device further comprises a second lifting device connected to the cleaning cap for moving (e.g., vertically moving and / or pivoting) the cleaning cap to cover the filling element. The device further comprises a (e.g.,A pneumatic, hydraulic, or electrical supply device, preferably a compressed air supply device, is provided, wherein the supply device is connected to the second lifting device for driving the second lifting device (e.g., for supplying compressed air, hydraulic fluid, or electrical energy to the second lifting device). The supply device has a connectable interface (e.g., pneumatic, electrical, or hydraulic) comprising a first connection piece and a second connection piece. The second connection piece is connected (e.g., mechanically) to the first lifting device for vertical movement with the container support for coupling and decoupling (e.g., airtight, hydraulic, or electrical) with and from the first connection piece.

[0009] The device advantageously eliminates the need for long cables or hoses to supply the second lifting mechanism, which would otherwise have to withstand a large stroke during filling operations, with all the associated disadvantages. Instead, it eliminates the need for plastic hoses, etc., which could be damaged by broken glass. Furthermore, the interface can be advantageously located in a relatively protected area of ​​the device. The interface configuration also allows for a hygienic design. The detachable interface also advantageously ensures that the cleaning cap can only be moved by the second lifting mechanism during cleaning operations and is otherwise inaccessible due to the decoupling of the first and second connection points.

[0010] In one embodiment, the first connecting piece is fixed vertically and immovably, e.g., on the first lifting device. Advantageously, the coupling can then be achieved simply by moving the second connecting piece towards the first. This advantageously simplifies the kinematics of the interface.

[0011] In a further embodiment, the first lifting device comprises a stationary element (e.g., vertically), preferably a cylinder or piston, and a movable element (e.g., vertically), preferably a piston or cylinder, relative to the stationary element. Preferably, the container support, the cleaning cap, and the second connecting piece can be connected to the movable element (e.g., mechanically) for vertical movement. Optionally, the first connecting piece can be fixed to the stationary element, preferably to fix it relative to the second connecting piece, which moves vertically with the movable element. Advantageously, this provides a reliable design for moving the second connecting piece relative to the first connecting piece for coupling and decoupling the connecting pieces.

[0012] In one embodiment, the movable element can be moved into a cleaning operation coupling position, in which the second and first connection pieces are coupled together for cleaning the device. Optionally, the cleaning operation coupling position can be an end position for the movable element, preferably the lowest one. Advantageously, the cleaning operation coupling position can thus be reached in an end position of the first lifting device, thereby ensuring, for example, reliable coupling and / or reliably preventing the device from overshooting this cleaning operation coupling position, for example, during filling operation.

[0013] For example, the device may have a control unit configured to operate the first lifting device in such a way that the movable element is moved into the cleaning operation coupling position and / or is positioned in the cleaning operation coupling position during the cleaning operation.

[0014] In another embodiment, the movable element is movable within a filling operation range, in which the container can be raised and lowered by means of the container support for filling the device. The cleaning operation coupling position lies outside the filling operation range. Advantageously, this reliably prevents the second lifting device from being unintentionally driven during the device's filling operation.

[0015] For example, the device may have a control unit configured to operate the first lifting device in such a way that the movable element is moved only within the filling operation movement range during filling operation and that the cleaning operation coupling position is outside of the filling operation movement range.

[0016] Preferably, the term "control device" can refer to electronics (e.g., implemented as a driver circuit or with microprocessor(s) and data storage) and / or mechanical, pneumatic, and / or hydraulic control systems, which, depending on their design, can perform control tasks, regulation tasks, and / or processing tasks. Although the term "control" is used here, it can also appropriately encompass or refer to "regulation" or "feedback control" and / or "processing."

[0017] In one embodiment, one of the first and second connection pieces has a locking element, preferably a locking plunger, that is movable, preferably vertically, for closing the first and second connection pieces. Optionally, the first and second connection pieces can also have an elastic element, preferably a (e.g., coil) spring, which biases the locking element into a closed position for closing the first and second connection pieces. Advantageously, this enables a secure closure of the respective connection piece when the connection pieces are decoupled from each other. Advantageously, this prevents, for example, the unwanted escape of compressed air or hydraulic fluid or the exposure of an electrical contact.

[0018] In a further embodiment, the locking element has a seal (e.g., a sealing ring), preferably an O-ring, for airtight sealing of the first and second connecting pieces. Alternatively or additionally, the locking element can project beyond an opening surface of the first and second connecting pieces in the closed position, preferably in a vertical direction (e.g., upwards). Alternatively or additionally, the other connecting piece can have, for example, a stop element, preferably central, for contacting the locking element to move it and open the first and second connecting pieces. This advantageously enables a particularly reliable interface design.

[0019] In one embodiment, the first lifting device is additionally connected to the cleaning cap and / or the second lifting device for vertical movement of the cleaning cap and / or the second lifting device (e.g., mechanically), preferably together with the container support. This advantageously enables a particularly functionally integrated and space-saving design of the device.

[0020] In another embodiment, the cleaning cap can be vertically extended and retracted by means of the second lifting device, preferably by sliding it in from below the container support and / or extending it by moving the container support laterally (e.g., by pushing or pivoting it away). Alternatively or additionally, the second lifting device can, for example, include a telescopic cylinder. Alternatively or additionally, the second lifting device and the cleaning cap can form an integrated unit, preferably with the cleaning cap acting as a (e.g., telescopic) piston of the second lifting device. This advantageously allows for reliable operation of the cleaning cap, a comparatively large stroke of the cleaning cap, and / or a protected arrangement of the cleaning cap when not in use.

[0021] In one embodiment, the cleaning cap, the container support, and the second lifting device form an integrated assembly (e.g., which can be moved vertically together by the first lifting device). Alternatively or additionally, the cleaning cap can be moved (e.g., by the second lifting device) into a position (e.g., a non-use position) directly below the container support. Alternatively or additionally, the second lifting device can be arranged directly below the container support. Alternatively or additionally, the interface can be arranged below the first lifting device and / or below the second lifting device. Alternatively or additionally, when the cleaning cap is extended (e.g., into a use position), the container support can be moved laterally away from the cleaning cap and / or the second lifting device, preferably pivoted away.This allows for a space-saving, hygienic and protected arrangement of the cleaning cap or interface.

[0022] In another embodiment, the filling element has a fill level probe. Preferably, the cleaning cap can be dimensioned to accommodate the fill level probe. Optionally, the second lifting device can be designed (e.g., operated by a control unit of the device) to move the cleaning cap so that the fill level probe can be inserted into the cleaning cap for cleaning the filling element. Advantageously, the cleaning cap can thus also be used in a system with a fill level probe.

[0023] In one embodiment, the filling element has a centering bell into which the opening of the cleaning cap can be inserted. Optionally, the second lifting device can be configured (e.g., operated by a control unit of the device) to move the cleaning cap so that the opening can be inserted into the centering bell, preferably to center the cleaning cap below the filling element. This advantageously ensures reliable centering of the cleaning cap during cleaning operations.

[0024] Another aspect concerns a container treatment plant (e.g., for tempering, manufacturing, cleaning, coating, testing, filling, sealing, pasteurizing, labeling, printing, marking, laser marking, and / or packaging containers for liquid or pasty media, preferably beverages, liquid food products, or products from the pharmaceutical or healthcare industry). The container treatment plant may include the device as disclosed herein.

[0025] For example, the containers can be designed as bottles, cans, canisters, cartons, vials, tubes, etc.

[0026] Another aspect concerns a method for operating the device as disclosed herein. The method includes operating the device in a filling mode, in which a container supported by the container carrier is filled by the filling element, and the first and second connection pieces are decoupled from each other. Alternatively or additionally, the method includes operating the device in a cleaning mode, in which the cleaning cap covers the filling element (e.g., from below), and the first and second connection pieces are coupled together (e.g., for transmitting compressed air, hydraulic fluid, or electrical energy). Advantageously, the same advantages can be achieved with this method as have already been described with reference to the device. The same applies to the preferred embodiments of the method explained below.

[0027] In one embodiment, the method has at least one of: In the filling operation, the container carrier is moved by means of the first lifting device to raise the container in preparation for filling, to hold the container in a raised position during filling, and to lower the container after filling; in the filling operation, the second lifting device is not supplied with compressed air or hydraulic fluid or is de-energized; in the cleaning operation, the second connecting piece is moved by means of the first lifting device to the first connecting piece for coupling with the first connecting piece, so that the second lifting device can be supplied with compressed air, hydraulic fluid, or electrical energy; in the cleaning operation, the cleaning cap is moved by the second lifting device to cover the filling element, preferably extended; in the cleaning operation, a movable element, preferably a cylinder or piston, of the first lifting device is in a (e.g., lowest) position (e.g.,End position), which is not reached during filling operation; and one of the first and second connectors is opened by the other of the first and second connectors during coupling (e.g. mechanically), preferably by moving a (e.g. elastically pre-tensioned to a closed position) locking element of one of the first and second connectors from a closed position by means of a stop element of the other of the first and second connectors.

[0028] The previously described preferred embodiments and features of the invention can be combined with one another in any way. Brief description of the characters

[0029] Further details and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. These show: Figure 1 is a purely schematic representation of a device for filling containers according to an exemplary embodiment; Figure 2 is a sectional view through a section of the exemplary device in a filling operation; Figure 3 is a detailed view of a section C of Figure 2 Figure 4 shows a sectional view through a section of the exemplary device in a cleaning plant; and Figure 5 shows a detailed view of a section D of Figure 4 .

[0030] The embodiments shown in the figures are at least partially identical, so that similar or identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals and, to avoid repetition, reference is also made to the description of the other embodiments or figures for their explanation. Detailed description of exemplary embodiments

[0031] The Figure 1Figure 1 shows a device 10 for filling containers. The device 10 can, for example, be included in a container treatment system. The container treatment system can, for instance, also include a device for closing the filled containers. The device for closing the filled containers can, for example, be connected to the device 10 via a container conveyor.

[0032] Preferably, the device 10 can fill the containers with a liquid or pasty medium. The device 10 is preferably designed as a rotary filling device, e.g., with a vertical central axis of rotation A. The device 10 can have several filling elements 12 for simultaneously or overlappingly filling several containers. For example, the filling elements 12 can be arranged around the circumference of a filling carousel of the rotary filling device.

[0033] The Figures 2 to 5 Each section of the device 10 is shown, wherein the Figures 2 and 3 a filling operation of the device 10 and the Figures 4 and 5 show a cleaning operation of device 10.

[0034] The device 10 comprises a filling element 12, a container carrier 24, a first lifting device 26, a cleaning cap 34, a second lifting device 38 and a supply device 44.

[0035] Preferably, the device 10 has several stations, each comprising a filling element 12, a container carrier 24, a first lifting device 26, a cleaning cap 34, a second lifting device 38, and a supply device 44. The stations can preferably be arranged distributed around the circumference of the device 10 (see also Figure 1 ).

[0036] The filling element 12 serves to fill a container B with a material, preferably liquid or pasty. It is possible that the filling element 12 is additionally designed to evacuate, rinse, and / or pre-pressurize the container B.

[0037] The filling element 12 can, for example, be held on a rotatable upper part of the device 10. The upper part is preferably rotatable about a vertical central axis of rotation A of the device 10 (see also Figure 1 For example, the upper part can be rotated by means of a vertically aligned main shaft / central shaft of the device 10.

[0038] The filling element 12 can, for example, include a filling valve 14 with a movable valve element for releasing and blocking a filling path. Preferably, the filling element 12 can further include a centering bell 16 and / or a fill level probe 22.

[0039] The centering bell 16 can center the container B to be filled directly below the filling element 12. For example, the centering bell 16 can have a conical receptacle for the opening of container B. The receptacle can be open on the underside of the centering bell 16.

[0040] Preferably, the centering bell 16 can be vertically movable and guided. For example, the centering bell 16 can be vertically movable by means of a connecting rod 18. The connecting rod 18 can, for example, be connected to a lifting cam via a roller 20. It is possible for the centering bell 16 to be vertically movable relative to a filling outlet or a filling valve housing of the filling device 12. Accordingly, the centering bell 16 can be lowered from a position adjacent to the outlet or the filling valve housing and / or raised from a lowered position to be positioned against the filling outlet or the filling valve housing.

[0041] The fill level probe 22 can protrude vertically downwards from the filling device 12. The fill level probe 22 can be immersed in the container B when the container B is being filled by means of the filling device 12. Preferably, the fill level probe 22 can issue a filling stop signal to the filling device 12 when a desired fill level in the container B is reached. The fill level probe 22 can, for example, be configured as a short-circuit probe.

[0042] Preferably, the level probe 22 is an elongated component, for example, rod-shaped or tubular. One longitudinal axis of the elongated level probe 22 can be vertically oriented. The level probe 22 can extend through the centering bell 16.

[0043] The container support 24 can carry a container B. The container support 24 can support the container B during filling by means of the filling element 12. Preferably, the container support 24 can support the container B at its base. For example, the container support 24 can be designed as a container support plate or at least have one. Alternatively or additionally, the container support 24 can support the container B, for example, at a container neck, at a container neck ring, or at the circumference of a container base (container body).

[0044] The first lifting device 26 is connected to the container support 24 for vertical movement of the container support 24 to raise and lower the supported container B. Preferably, the first lifting device 26 can support the first container support 24.

[0045] The first lifting device 26 can lift the container carrier 24 with a container B carried on it for filling. During lifting, the fill level probe 22 can be immersed in the container B. During lifting, the opening of the container B can be positioned against the centering bell 16 or may already be in contact with it. After filling, the first lifting device 26 can lower the container carrier 24 with the filled container B.

[0046] Additionally, the first lifting device 26 can be connected to the cleaning cap 34 and / or the second lifting device 38 for vertical movement of the cleaning cap 34 and / or the second lifting device 38. Preferably, the first lifting device 26 can support the cleaning cap 34 and / or the second lifting device 38.

[0047] Particularly preferably, the first lifting device 26 can be connected with an (integrated) assembly consisting of the container carrier 24, the cleaning cap 34 and the second lifting device 38 for vertical movement, and preferably carrying, of the assembly.

[0048] For example, the first lifting device 26 has a (vertically) stationary element 28 and an element 30 that is movable (vertically) relative to it. The stationary element 28 can, for example, be rigidly connected to a rotatable lower part of the device 10. For example, the stationary element 28 can be rigidly connected at an upper end to the rotatable lower part of the device 10. The first lifting device 26 can thus preferably rotate together with the container support 24, the cleaning cap 34, the second lifting device 38, and the supply device 44 with the rotatable lower part of the device 10 about the central axis of rotation A (see Figure 1) rotate along with it. For example, the lower part can be rotated by means of a vertically aligned main shaft / central shaft of the device 10.

[0049] Preferably, the first lifting device 26 can be designed as a piston-cylinder unit, preferably pneumatic. As in the Figures 2 and 4 As shown, the stationary element 28 can preferably be a piston (with piston rod) of the first lifting device 26, and the movable element 30 can be a cylinder of the first lifting device 26. However, it is also possible, for example, that the stationary element 28 is a cylinder of the first lifting device 26, and the movable element 30 of the first lifting device 26 is a piston (with piston rod) (not shown in the figures).

[0050] Preferably, the first lifting device 26 can be vertically oriented. The movable element 30 can be movable relative to the stationary element 28 in a vertical direction.

[0051] Preferably, the first lifting device 26 is a pneumatic lifting device. However, it is also possible that the first lifting device 26 is, for example, a mechanical, hydraulic, electromechanical or electromagnetic lifting device.

[0052] Preferably, the first lifting device 26 can be arranged laterally next to the container support 24 and / or the assembly consisting of the container support 24, the cleaning cap 34, and the second lifting device 38. For example, the first lifting device 26 can support the assembly via a support arm 32. The support arm 32 can connect the assembly and the stationary element 28 of the first lifting device 26.

[0053] In its operating position, the cleaning cap 34 can cover the filling element 12 from below during cleaning. Specifically, in its operating position, the cleaning cap 34 can cover a filling outlet of the filling element 12 from below. This allows the cleaning cap 34, during cleaning operation of the device 10, to direct cleaning fluid flowing through the filling element 12 back into the filling element 12 at the filling outlet.

[0054] Preferably, the cleaning cap 34 is designed as a so-called CIP cleaning cap or Cleaning-In-Place cleaning cap.

[0055] Preferably, the cleaning cap 34 can be dimensioned to accommodate the fill level probe 22. For example, the cleaning cap 34 can have an inner diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the fill level probe 22. For example, the cleaning cap 34 can have a length that is greater than the length of the fill level probe 22.

[0056] For example, the cleaning cap 34 can be essentially tubular, with a closed lower end and an open upper end arranged opposite to it.

[0057] The cleaning cap 34 can, for example, have a cap opening 36. The cap opening 36 can, for example, be conical.

[0058] The outer shape of the cap opening 36 is preferably adapted to an inner shape of the centering bell 16. Preferably, the cleaning cap 34, with its cap opening 36, can be inserted into the centering bell 16. The centering bell 16 can then hold or secure / fix the cleaning cap 34, for example, with respect to a radial direction of a central vertical axis of the centering bell 16.

[0059] Preferably, the cleaning cap 34 can be vertically extended and retracted by means of the second lifting device 38. Figure 2 The retracted or non-used position of the cleaning cap 34 is shown as an example. Figure 4 The extended position or operating position of the cleaning cap 34 is shown as an example.

[0060] Preferably, the cleaning cap 34 can be positioned directly below the container support 34 in its retracted position. Preferably, the cleaning cap 34 can be retracted into a position below the container support 24 by means of the second lifting device 38.

[0061] When the cleaning cap 34 is extended, the container carrier 24 can be moved to the side, preferably swivelled away, e.g. by 90° and / or about a horizontal pivot axis (see for example Figure 4 Preferably, the container carrier 24 can be moved away by the cleaning cap 34 and / or the second lifting device 38.

[0062] The second lifting device 38 is connected to the cleaning cap 34 for moving the cleaning cap 34 to cover the filling element 12. Specifically, the second lifting device 38 can move the cleaning cap 34 into its operating position, in which the cleaning cap 34 covers the filling element 12 and the device 10 can be operated in cleaning mode.

[0063] Preferably, the second lifting device 38 can vertically extend and retract the cleaning cap 34, and optionally, when extending the cleaning cap 34, can indirectly or directly move the container carrier 24 laterally, preferably pivoting it away. More specifically, the second lifting device 38 can preferably extend the cleaning cap 34 vertically into its operating position and retract it vertically into its non-operating position.

[0064] Although the vertical mobility of the cleaning cap 34, i.e. the extension and retraction of the cleaning cap 34, by means of the second lifting device 38 is particularly preferred, it is in principle possible for the cleaning cap 34 to additionally or alternatively perform at least one pivoting movement (for example about a vertical and / or about a horizontal pivoting axis) in order to move into a working position for cleaning operation or from this position to a non-working position.

[0065] The mobility of the cleaning cap 34 provided by the second lifting device 38 can preferably enable the cleaning cap 34 to be moved into its operating position in such a way that the filling level probe 22 is inserted into the cleaning cap 34 for cleaning the filling element 12 and / or the cap opening 36 is inserted into the centering bell 16.

[0066] The second lifting device 38 is preferably designed as a piston-cylinder unit. For example, the second lifting device 38 can have a lifting element 40. The lifting element 40 can be vertically extendable and retractable. For example, the lifting element 40 can be designed as at least one piston. The at least one piston can, for example, be guided vertically in a (lifting) cylinder 42 of the second lifting device 38.

[0067] Preferably, the second lifting device 38 is arranged directly below the container support 24. For example, the second lifting device 38 can support the container support 24, for example at an upper end of the cylinder 42. For example, an upper end of the cylinder 42 can be connected to an edge region of the container support 24 via a pivot axis, preferably horizontal.

[0068] Preferably, the second lifting device 38 has a telescopic cylinder or is designed as such. For example, the lifting element 40 can have several pistons that can be extended and retracted telescopically.

[0069] Particularly preferably, the second lifting device 38 and the cleaning cap 34 can form an integrated unit. Specifically, the cleaning cap 34 can, for example, be designed as a (e.g., telescopic) piston or as part of the lifting element 40, as shown in the Figures 2 and 4 This is an example.

[0070] Preferably, the second lifting device 38 is a pneumatic lifting device, e.g., a single-acting or a double-acting pneumatic piston-cylinder unit. However, it is also possible that the second lifting device 38 is, for example, a hydraulic, electromechanical, or electromagnetic lifting device.

[0071] The supply unit 44 is connected to the second lifting unit 38 for driving the second lifting unit 38. Preferably, the supply unit 44 can be a compressed air supply unit that can supply compressed air to the second lifting unit 38 for driving it. However, it is also possible, for example, for the supply unit 44 to be an electric or hydraulic supply unit.

[0072] The supply unit 44 has a connectable interface 46. The interface 46 is preferably a pneumatic interface, as in the Figures 2 to 5 as shown. However, it is also possible, for example, that interface 46 is an electrical or a hydraulic interface.

[0073] As particularly evident in the Figures 3 and 5As shown, the interface 46 has a first connector 48 and a second connector 50, which can be coupled together and decoupled from each other.

[0074] The first connection piece 48 can be connected to a drive source. The drive source can be, for example, a compressed air source, a voltage source, or a hydraulic fluid source. The second connection piece 50 can be connected to the second lifting device 38, e.g., via a fluid line, preferably rigid, or a power cable, preferably rigid. This allows the second lifting device 38 to be extended by the drive source.

[0075] Alternatively or additionally, the first connecting piece 48 can be connected or connectable to another drive source, which is formed by a vacuum source. This allows the second lifting device 38 to be retracted / retracted, for example.

[0076] The first connecting piece 48 is preferably fixed vertically so as not to move. For example, the first connecting piece 48 can be fixed vertically so as not to move on the stationary element 28 of the first lifting device 26, e.g. at a lower end of a piston rod of the stationary element 28.

[0077] The second connecting piece 50 is mechanically connected to the first lifting device 26 for vertical movement with the container carrier 24, enabling coupling and decoupling from the first connecting piece 48. This allows the container carrier 24, the cleaning cap 34, the second lifting device 38, and the second connecting piece 50 to be preferably connected for vertical movement with the movable element 30 of the first lifting device 26.

[0078] For example, the second connecting piece 50 can be fixed to the movable element 30 of the first lifting device 26, for example at a lower end of the movable element 30.

[0079] The first connector 48 can, for example, be positioned directly below the second connector 50. The second connector 50 can be vertically movable above the first connector 48 by means of the movable element 30.

[0080] The Figures 2 and 3 The connecting pieces 48 and 50 are shown in a decoupled state. Connecting pieces 48 and 50 are vertically spaced apart. Figures 4 and 5 The connectors 48 and 50 are shown in a coupled state. The connectors 48 and 50 are in contact with each other.

[0081] The Figure 4Figure 1 shows, by way of example, that the movable element 30 can be moved into a cleaning operation coupling position R, in which the second connecting piece 50 and the first connecting piece 48 are coupled together for cleaning operation of the device 10. Preferably, the cleaning operation coupling position R can be one, preferably the lowest, end position for the movable element 30. Preferably, the stationary element 28 can serve as a stop for the movable element 30 in the cleaning operation position R.

[0082] On the other hand, the Figure 2The movable element 30 is moved away from the cleaning operation coupling position R during the filling operation of the device 10. Specifically, the second lifting device 26 can be operated during the filling operation of the device 10 such that the movable element 30 is moved only within a filling operation movement range F in order to raise and lower the container B by means of the container support 24. Preferably, the cleaning operation coupling position R can be located outside of the filling operation movement range F. Accordingly, no coupling between the connecting pieces 48 and 50 can take place during the filling operation, so that the second lifting device 38 is not driven.

[0083] The Figures 3 and 5 Connectors 48 and 50 are shown in detail as examples.

[0084] The first connecting piece 48 can, for example, have a locking element 52, preferably movable vertically, for closing an opening surface of the first connecting piece 48. Preferably, the locking element 52 can be designed as a locking plunger. The locking element 52 can, for example, have a conical shape, such as a blunt cone shape. Preferably, the locking element 52 can be in the closed position (see Figure 3 ) protrude over an opening surface of the first connecting piece 48, preferably in a vertical direction upwards.

[0085] The sealing element 52 can, for example, include a seal 56. The seal 56 preferably provides an airtight seal for the first connecting piece 48. The seal 56 can, for example, be designed as a sealing ring, e.g., an O-ring.

[0086] The locking element 52 can be pre-tensioned into a closed position to close the first connecting piece 48, for example, by an elastic element 54 and / or by pressurizing fluid. The elastic element 54 can, for example, be a spring, e.g., a compression spring, preferably a helical compression spring. The elastic element 54 can preferably be arranged below the locking element 52 and / or at least partially within a receptacle (e.g., on the bottom) of the locking element 52.

[0087] The second connecting piece 50 preferably has a stop element 58. Preferably, the stop element 58 can be arranged centrally in an opening area of ​​the second connecting piece 50. When the connecting pieces 48 and 50 are coupled together, the stop element 58 can contact and move the locking element 52, so that the first connecting piece or its opening area is opened.

[0088] Accordingly, in the coupled state, compressed air can preferably be supplied from a compressed air source via the first connection piece 48 to the second connection piece 50 and from the second connection piece 50 to the second lifting device 38. Preferably, the lifting element 40 can then be extended together with the cleaning cap 34. The retraction of the lifting element 40 required at the end of the cleaning operation can, for example, be effected by gravity and / or by connecting the vacuum source to the supply device 44 and / or by supplying compressed air to a further chamber of the second lifting device 38, which in this case is double-acting.

[0089] The opening of the second connector 50 can optionally have a seal 60. The seal 60 preferably allows the connectors 48 and 50 to be coupled in an airtight manner. The seal 60 can, for example, be designed as a sealing ring, e.g., an O-ring.

[0090] As an alternative to the embodiment shown, it is possible, for example, that the first connecting piece 48 has the stop element 58 and optionally the seal 60, and the second connecting piece 50 has the closing element 52 and optionally the elastic element 54 and / or the seal 56.

[0091] As already mentioned, the device 10 can be operated in a filling operation and a cleaning operation.

[0092] During filling operation (see Figures 2 and 3The container B, supported by the container carrier 24, is filled by the filling device 12. The first connection piece 48 and the second connection piece 50 are decoupled from each other. During filling operation, the container carrier 24 can be moved by means of the first lifting device 26 to raise the container B in preparation for filling, to hold the container B in a raised position during filling by the filling device 12, and to lower the container B after filling, e.g., by moving the movable element 30 only within the filling operation movement range F. Due to the decoupling of the connection pieces 48 and 50, the second lifting device 38 and / or the supply device 44 upstream of the second connection piece 50 is preferably not supplied with compressed air or hydraulic fluid or is, for example, de-energized.

[0093] In the cleaning operation (see Figures 4 and 5The cleaning cap 34 covers the filling element 12. The first connecting piece 48 and the second connecting piece 50 are coupled together, preferably for transmitting compressed air, hydraulic fluid or electrical energy.

[0094] The invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Rather, a multitude of variants and modifications are possible, which also make use of the inventive concept and therefore fall within the scope of protection. In particular, the invention also claims protection for the subject matter and the features of the dependent claims independently of the referenced claims. In particular, the individual features of independent claim 1 are each disclosed independently of one another. In addition, the features of the dependent claims are also disclosed independently of all features of independent claim 1 and, for example, independently of the features relating to the presence and / or configuration of the filling device, the container carrier, the first lifting device, the cleaning cap, the second lifting device, and / or the supply device of independent claim 1.All range specifications herein are to be understood as disclosed in such a way as to disclose all values ​​falling within the respective range individually, e.g. also as preferred narrower outer limits of the respective range. Reference symbol list

[0095] 10 Device 12 Filling element 14 Filling valve 16 Centering bell 18 Connecting rod 20 Roller 22 Filling level probe 24 Container support 26 First lifting device 28 Fixed element 30 Movable element 32 Support arm 34 Cleaning cap 36 Cap opening 38 Second lifting device 40 Lifting element 42 Cylinder 44 Supply device 46 Interface 48 First connection piece 50 Second connection piece 52 Closure element 54 Elastic element 56 Seal 58 Stop element 60 Seal AZentral axis of rotation BContainer FFilling operation range of motion RCleaning operation coupling position

Claims

1. Device (10), preferably a rotary device, for filling containers (B) with a filling material, wherein the device (10) comprises: a filling element (12) for filling a container (B); a container support (24), preferably a container support plate, for supporting the container during filling; a first lifting device (26) connected to the container support (24) for vertically moving the container support (24) to raise and lower the supported container (B); a cleaning cap (34), preferably a CIP cleaning cap, for covering the filling element (12) during cleaning; a second lifting device (38) connected to the cleaning cap (34) for moving the cleaning cap (34) to cover the filling element (12);and a supply device (44), preferably a compressed air supply device, wherein the supply device (44) is connected to the second lifting device (38) for driving the second lifting device (38), wherein the supply device (44) has a connectable interface (46) with: - a first connecting piece (48); and - a second connecting piece (50) which is connected to the first lifting device (26) for vertical movement with the container carrier (24) for coupling with and decoupling from the first connecting piece (48).

2. Device (10) according to claim 1, wherein: the first connecting piece (48) is fixed vertically so as not to move.

3. Device (10) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: the first lifting device (26) comprises a stationary element (28), preferably a cylinder or piston, and a movable element (30), preferably a piston or cylinder, relative thereto; and the container support (24), the cleaning cap (34) and the second connecting piece (50) are connected to the movable element (30) for vertical movement; and optionally the first connecting piece (48) is fixed to the stationary element (28), preferably for fixing relative to the second connecting piece (50) which moves vertically with the movable element (30).

4. Device (10) according to claim 3, wherein: the movable element (30) is movable into a cleaning operation coupling position (R) in which the second connecting piece (50) and the first connecting piece (48) are coupled together for a cleaning operation of the device (10); and optionally: the cleaning operation coupling position (R) is a, preferably lower, end position for the movable element (30).

5. Device (10) according to claim 4, wherein: the movable element (30) is movable within a filling operation movement range (F) in which the container (B) can be raised and lowered for a filling operation of the device (10) by means of the container support (24); and the cleaning operation coupling position (R) is outside of the filling operation movement range (F).

6. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein one of the first connecting piece (48) and the second connecting piece (50) comprises: a, preferably vertically, movable locking element (52), preferably a locking plunger, for closing one of the first connecting piece (48) and the second connecting piece (50); and optionally an elastic element (54), preferably a spring, which biases the locking element (52) into a closed position for closing one of the first connecting piece (48) and the second connecting piece (50).

7. Device (10) according to claim 6, wherein at least one of the following is fulfilled: the closure element (52) has a seal (56), preferably an O-ring, for airtight sealing of one of the first connecting piece (48) and the second connecting piece (50); the closure element (52) projects beyond an opening surface of one of the first connecting piece (48) and the second connecting piece (50) in the closed position, preferably in a vertical direction; and the other of the first connecting piece (48) and the second connecting piece (50) has a stop element (58), preferably central, for contacting the closure element (52) for moving the closure element (52) to open one of the first connecting piece (48) and the second connecting piece (50).

8. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the first lifting device (26) is additionally connected to the cleaning cap (34) and / or the second lifting device (38) for vertical movement of the cleaning cap (34) and / or the second lifting device (38), preferably together with the container carrier (24).

9. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the following is fulfilled: the cleaning cap (34) is vertically extendable and retractable by means of the second lifting device (38), preferably extendable below the container support (24) and / or extendable by moving the container support (24) laterally; the second lifting device (38) has a telescopic cylinder; and the second lifting device (38) and the cleaning cap (34) form an integrated assembly, preferably with the cleaning cap (34) as a piston of the second lifting device (38).

10. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the following is fulfilled: the cleaning cap (34), the container carrier (24) and the second lifting device (38) form an integrated assembly; the cleaning cap (34) is movable into a position directly below the container carrier (24); the second lifting device (38) is arranged directly below the container carrier (24); the interface (46) is arranged below the first lifting device (26) and / or below the second lifting device (38), and when the cleaning cap (34) is extended, the container carrier (24) is moved sideways away from the cleaning cap (34) and / or the second lifting device (38), preferably pivoted away.

11. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the filling element (12) has a fill level probe (22); and the cleaning cap (34) is dimensioned to receive the fill level probe (22), and optionally the second lifting device (38) is configured to move the cleaning cap (34) so ​​that the fill level probe (22) can be inserted into the cleaning cap (34) for cleaning the filling element (12).

12. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the filling element (12) has a centering bell (16) into which a cap opening (36) of the cleaning cap (34) can be inserted, and optionally the second lifting device (38) is designed to move the cleaning cap (34) so ​​that the cap opening (36) can be inserted into the centering bell (16), preferably for centering the cleaning cap (34) below the filling element (12).

13. Method for operating the device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises: operating the device (10) in a filling operation in which a container (B) supported by the container carrier (24) is filled by the filling element (12) and the first connecting piece (48) and the second connecting piece (50) are decoupled from each other; and / or operating the device (10) in a cleaning operation in which the cleaning cap (34) covers the filling element (12) and the first connecting piece (48) and the second connecting piece (50) are coupled together.

14. Method according to claim 13, wherein at least one of the following is fulfilled: in the filling operation, the container support (24) is moved by means of the first lifting device (26) to lift the container (B) in preparation for filling, to hold the container (B) in a raised position during filling, and to lower the container (B) after filling; in the filling operation, the second lifting device (38) is not supplied with compressed air or hydraulic fluid or is de-energized; in the cleaning operation, the second connecting piece (50) is moved by means of the first lifting device (26) to the first connecting piece (48) for coupling with the first connecting piece (48), so that the second lifting device (38) can be supplied with compressed air, hydraulic fluid, or electrical energy; in the cleaning operation, the cleaning cap (34) is moved by the second lifting device (38) to cover the filling element (12), preferably extended;and in the cleaning operation, a movable element (30), preferably a cylinder or piston, of the first lifting device (26) is in a position that is not reached in the filling operation.

15. Method according to claim 13 or claim 14, wherein: one of the first connecting piece (48) and the second connecting piece (50) is opened by the other of the first connecting piece (48) and the second connecting piece (50) during coupling, preferably by moving a locking element (52) of one of the first connecting piece (48) and the second connecting piece (50) from a closed position by means of a stop element (58) of the other of the first connecting piece (48) and the second connecting piece (50).

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