Method and device for filling an open container

Abstract

The invention relates to a method and a device for filling an open-topped container (2) with a pourable product, in particular coffee powder or milk powder, by means of a filling head (3) which can be attached to the container (2) in a gas-tight manner and which has a filling channel (30) and a gas channel (32), wherein the container (3) is received in a gas-tight casing (6) which, at least in one filling position, seals against the filling head (3) and / or the container (2) in order to create a gas-tightly sealed gap (62) between the casing (6) and an outer wall of the container, wherein the filling channel (30) has a free end (300) which, in the filling position, projects into the container (2) with an immersion depth, wherein, during a filling phase, a vacuum is generated in the container (2) and in the gap (62) for product dispensing.wherein the negative pressure in the container (2) causes product to be discharged via the filling channel (30) up to a filling level that corresponds at least substantially to the immersion depth, wherein after the filling phase a gas supply to the container (2) and to the gap (62) takes place in a gassing phase, wherein in the gassing phase at least an inert gas is supplied to the container (2), and wherein after the filling phase and before the gassing phase a filling weight of the container (2) is detected and compared with a target weight, wherein refilling takes place if the detected filling weight is below the target weight.

Description

SCOPE OF APPLICATION AND STATE OF THE ART

[0001] The invention relates to a method and a device for filling an open-topped container with a pourable or powdered product by means of a vacuum generated in the container. The invention particularly relates to a method and a device for filling an open-topped container with coffee powder or milk powder by means of a vacuum generated in the container.

[0002] Filling a container by means of a negative pressure generated in the container is also referred to as vacuum filling in connection with the application.

[0003] A device and a method for vacuum-filling open-topped containers are known, for example, from DE 102022203817 B4. The device known from DE 102022203817 B4 comprises a filling head with a filling channel having a free end and a gas channel having a container opening and a connection opening, and a gas-tight casing that receives the container in the filling position, wherein, in a filling position, gas can be discharged from the container and gas can be supplied to the container via the gas channel, wherein the casing seals against the filling head and / or the container, at least in the filling position, to create a gas-tight gap between the casing and the outer wall of the container, and wherein a gap connection opening is provided, wherein gas can be discharged from the gap and gas can be supplied to the gap via the gap connection opening, and wherein a control device is provided which is configured toto fluidically connect the container and the gap for product dispensing to a vacuum source in such a way that a vacuum down to a first pressure level can be generated in the container and the gap, and to fluidly connect the container and the gap to a gas source after product dispensing in such a way that a gas can be supplied to the container and the gap, and wherein the control device is further configured to fluidly connect the container and the gap to the vacuum source after product dispensing and before a gas supply for degassing following product dispensing in such a way that a vacuum down to a second pressure level below the first pressure level can be generated in the container and the gap. TASK AND SOLUTION

[0004] The object of the invention is to provide a method and a device for filling an open-topped container with a pourable product, in particular with coffee powder or milk powder, by means of a vacuum generated in the container, which allows for reliable filling.

[0005] This problem is solved by the items having the features of claims 1, 7 and 13. Advantageous embodiments result from the dependent claims.

[0006] According to a first aspect, a method for filling an open-topped container with a bulk product, in particular coffee powder or milk powder, is provided by means of a filling head with a filling channel and a gas channel, which is gas-tightly attached to the container, wherein the container is received in a gas-tight casing which, at least in one filling position, seals against the filling head and / or the container to create a gas-tight gap between the casing and an outer wall of the container, wherein the filling channel has a free end which, in the filling position, projects into the container to an immersion depth, wherein a vacuum is generated in the container and in the gap during the filling phase, wherein the vacuum in the container causes product to be dispensed via the filling channel up to a filling level that corresponds at least substantially to the immersion depth.wherein, after the filling phase, a gas supply is provided to the container and the gap in a gassing phase, wherein, in the gassing phase, at least an inert gas is supplied to the container, and wherein, after the filling phase and before the gassing phase, the filling weight of the container is recorded and compared with a target weight, wherein refilling takes place if the recorded filling weight is below the target weight.

[0007] The terms "a", "a" or similar are used in the context of the application solely as indefinite articles and not as counters. The terms "first", "second", etc. serve only to distinguish between elements and do not indicate any order. Likewise, the use of the term "first" does not necessarily imply the existence of a second element or component.

[0008] In the context of this application, a gas channel is defined as a gas-tight channel, whereby, depending on the specific design, a single gas channel facilitates both the removal of gas from the container and the gap and the supply of gas to the container and the gap. For this purpose, the gas channel has one or more connection openings. In other embodiments, two or more gas channels are provided for both the removal of gas from the container and the gap and the supply of gas to the container and the gap. The gas channel used for gas removal is also referred to as a vacuum channel.

[0009] Particularly when filling the container with food, chemical, or pharmaceutical products, an inert gas, also known as a protective gas, such as argon, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, or a mixed gas, is supplied to the container during the gas supply process to create a protective gas atmosphere. In one embodiment, an inert gas is also supplied to the gap, so that when the casing is removed, the container is surrounded by a protective gas atmosphere. In another embodiment, after the casing is removed, the container is transported to a closing device, with at least one end of the open container being held in a protective gas atmosphere, for example, in a tunnel and / or in a laminar flow.In other designs, the filling head and the closing device are enclosed in a common housing or in interconnected housings, in which a protective gas atmosphere prevails.

[0010] In some embodiments, it is provided that a continuous vacuum is generated in the container and in the gap during the filling phase, with a continuous product discharge to compensate for the vacuum in the container.

[0011] In one embodiment, an end of the gas channel having the container opening is immersed in the container in the filling position.

[0012] In the filling position, the free end of the filling channel extends into the container to a certain depth. When product is dispensed, which is achieved by creating a vacuum in the container, it is filled to a defined fill level, the defined fill level depending in particular on the immersion depth of the filling head's filling channel into the container.

[0013] In other words, the immersion depth determines the fill level of the product being filled into the container during the filling phase. Specifically, in some configurations, the free end of the filling channel extends into the container at a defined immersion depth throughout the entire filling phase. However, configurations are also conceivable in which the immersion depth is continuously or gradually reduced during the filling phase, so that, at least during a portion of the filling phase, the distance between the free end and the already filled product is kept constant within a certain tolerance range. The fill level then corresponds, at least essentially, to the immersion depth at the end of the filling phase.

[0014] It is based on the inventors' findings that, due to varying air inclusions in a free-flowing, powdered product, the density of the filled product, and therefore the weight of a product filled to the same fill level, is subject to fluctuations. By measuring the fill weight after filling and topping up before a gassing phase if the weight falls below a target value, it can be ensured that a defined target weight is not undershot, regardless of the product's density.

[0015] This method allows for the filling of the container and gas exchange within the filled container with high accuracy.

[0016] In one embodiment, the filling head's filling channel is moved relative to the container for refilling, reducing the immersion depth of its free end and creating a refill volume. The product can then flow into this refill volume. The immersion depth is reduced, meaning the filling channel and / or the container are moved in such a way that the distance between the free end of the filling channel and the end opposite a filling opening in the container is increased. This creates a refill volume. The filling head's travel distance depends on the required refill volume, which in turn depends on the difference between the measured fill weight and the target weight, also known as the differential weight. For refilling, an average density of the filled product is assumed in some embodiments.The refill volume is then the quotient of the difference in weight and the density. With a constant cross-section of the container over its height, the travel distance corresponds to the quotient of the refill volume and the base area of ​​the container. In some embodiments, the filling channel and / or the entire filling head are moved upwards in a direction away from an upper filling opening of the container. In one embodiment, a gas-tight connection between the filling head and the container is maintained during refilling.

[0017] The term "fill weight" refers to the total or gross weight of the filled product and the container.

[0018] In one embodiment, the tare weight of the container is recorded before the filling phase. By recording the tare weight of the container, also referred to as the empty weight, weight fluctuations of the container can be taken into account when recording the filled weight and defining the target weight. This ensures that, regardless of weight fluctuations, the weight of the filled product, also referred to as the net weight, does not fall below a defined target value.

[0019] The tare weight is measured before the filling phase. Specifically, this measurement occurs before a vacuum is created in the container and the gap. The fill weight, on the other hand, is measured before the gassing phase, and thus when a vacuum already exists in the container and the gap. In some configurations, a pressure difference is measured when determining the tare weight and the fill weight, and this pressure difference is taken into account, for example, as a disturbance variable and / or calibration value when determining the fill weight.

[0020] In one embodiment, the container rests on a base element during the filling phase, with a load cell of the weighing device being provided on the base element. In other embodiments, a lower open end of the casing is closed by means of the base element, whereby, depending on the application, the base element is raised in the direction of the casing and / or the casing is lowered in the direction of the base element to close the casing. The load cell arranged on the base element allows the tare weight and the filled weight to be determined. In other embodiments, the container is placed on the base element before the filling phase and remains on the base element after the filling phase until the completion of the gassing phase.

[0021] In one embodiment, it is provided that during the filling phase a vacuum is generated down to a first pressure level, and before the gassing phase, for degassing the container, a vacuum is generated down to a second pressure level below the first pressure level.

[0022] By creating a vacuum down to the second pressure level, which is lower than the first, any air or other gas present in the container after the filling process is removed. This process is also known as degassing. Degassing takes place immediately after the filling process without changing any equipment. In particular, it is advantageous to utilize the fact that the product is in a loosened state due to the filling process, allowing for degassing in a single stage in advantageous embodiments, instead of the multiple stages with different pressure levels that are typical of conventional degassing devices.

[0023] In one embodiment, two vacuum sources are provided to generate a vacuum with a first pressure level and a vacuum with a second pressure level.

[0024] In other embodiments, the gas channel is provided with a bypass opening to the environment, which is closed for the degassing phase following the filling phase. By closing the bypass opening, a second pressure level for degassing can be generated using the vacuum source employed for product discharge at a first pressure level. This eliminates the need for movable actuators such as throttles or similar devices in the gas channel.

[0025] In one embodiment, after the filling phase and before a gassing phase, a pressure level is maintained in the container and in the gap during a settling phase to allow the product to settle. This ensures that during subsequent degassing, the air trapped in the product is removed not only from the top area but also from lower areas of the container. Any necessary refilling of the product occurs before, after, or as an interruption of the settling phase, depending on the application.

[0026] According to a second aspect, a device for filling an open-topped container with a bulk product, in particular coffee powder or milk powder, is provided, comprising a filling head and a gas-tight casing that receives the container in a filling position, wherein the filling head comprises a filling channel having a free end and a gas channel having a container opening and a connection opening, wherein in the filling position the free end of the filling channel projects into the container to an immersion depth, wherein in the filling position gas can be discharged from the container and gas can be supplied to the container via the gas channel, wherein the casing seals against the filling head and / or the container at least in the filling position to create a gas-tight gap between the casing and a container outer wall, wherein a gap connection opening is provided.wherein gas can be discharged from the gap and gas can be supplied to the gap via the gap connection opening, wherein a control device is provided which is configured to fluidically connect the container and the gap to a vacuum source in a filling phase such that a vacuum can be generated in the container and the gap, wherein the vacuum in the container causes product to be discharged via the filling channel up to a filling level corresponding at least substantially to the immersion depth, and wherein the control device is configured to fluidly connect the container and the gap to a gas source in a gassing phase after the filling phase such that a gas can be supplied to the container and the gap, wherein at least an inert gas can be supplied to the container in the gassing phase, wherein a weighing device is provided for recording a filling weight of the container, wherein the control device is further configuredto record the container's fill weight after the filling phase and before the gassing phase and compare it with a target weight, and to trigger refilling if the recorded fill weight is below the target weight.

[0027] A control device is defined as a system by which the states of a device can be detected and controlled. In various configurations, the control device comprises multiple control units, each of which can detect and / or control one or more states. The control device may include electronic and / or pneumatic control units that open or close valves located at the gas channel connection opening and the gap connection opening. In other configurations, a mechanical control unit is provided, either alternatively or additionally.In one embodiment, the mechanical control unit comprises an actuating element movable relative to the filling head. Depending on the positioning of the filling head relative to the actuating element, the connection opening is either fluidically connected to or separated from the vacuum source or the gas source, and in particular, closed. In one embodiment, the actuating element is an actuating disc mounted on a rotary actuator, with the filling head moving along the circumference of the actuating disc. The use of a mechanical control unit allows for a valve-free design for gas discharge and / or gas supply.

[0028] In some configurations, the control device also includes an electronic control unit for evaluating a recorded fill weight and triggering a refill.

[0029] In one embodiment, the casing is movable relative to the filling head, with the casing being positioned towards the filling head in the filling position and sealing against it. In other embodiments, the casing is formed as a single unit with the filling head. In one embodiment, the casing and the filling head are manufactured separately and gas-tightly connected. In other embodiments, the casing and the filling head are manufactured as an integral component.

[0030] In one embodiment, a separate vacuum source or gas source is provided for degassing and / or gassing the gap, wherein the gap can be fluidically connected to the separate vacuum source or gas source via the gap connection opening. In other embodiments, the gap connection opening opens into the gas channel. The gap and the container can each be fluidically connected to a common vacuum source or gas source via the gas channel.

[0031] In various embodiments, the device comprises an actuator configured to move at least the filling channel of the filling head relative to the container for refilling purposes, thereby reducing the immersion depth of the free end in the container and creating a refill volume within the container. To reduce the immersion depth, the actuator moves the container and / or the filling channel, increasing the distance between the free end and a closed end of the container opposite the filling opening. In particular, certain embodiments provide that at least the filling channel or the entire filling head is lifted by the actuator for refilling. The product to be filled then flows into the created refill volume. In some embodiments, the actuator is controlled to move the filling channel by means of a control unit.The travel distance of the filling head is determined – as described above – depending on the refill volume to be provided, which in turn depends on the difference between the measured filling weight and the target weight, also referred to as the differential weight.

[0032] In certain designs, the movement of the filling channel relative to the container is such that the filling head seals against the container during refilling.

[0033] In some configurations, the control unit is further designed to determine the tare weight of the container using the weighing device before the filling phase. Preferably, the control unit is configured to determine the weight of the filled product based on the fill weight and the tare weight.

[0034] The weighing device comprises, in various embodiments, a load cell, a base element on which the container rests during the filling phase, and the load cell being mounted on the base element. Depending on the embodiment, the load cell is either located on a surface of the base element facing the container or below the base element.

[0035] According to a third aspect, a rotary device is created with positions distributed around its circumference, each equipped with a device containing a filling head and a casing. A rotary device is defined as a unit with a rotor that rotates continuously or intermittently around a rotary axis, with the positions moving along a circle with the rotor. In some embodiments, a weighing device is provided at each position, allowing the measurement of the fill weight and, optionally, a tare weight. In other embodiments, at least one stationary weighing device is provided, with the positions being moved via the weighing device to measure the fill weight.

[0036] In some embodiments, the rotation of the runner moves parts of the positions along a cam track to lower the casing relative to a base element and / or raise the base element relative to the casing to close the devices after inserting a container, or to raise the casing relative to a base element and / or lower the base element relative to the casing to open the devices for removing the container.

[0037] In some configurations of the rotary actuator, the gas channel for gas discharge and gas supply is connected to a vacuum source and a gas source, respectively, by the rotation of the actuator. Other configurations incorporate valves that are opened or closed based on rotation and / or control signals from the control unit. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] Further advantages and aspects of the invention will become apparent from the claims and from the following description of exemplary embodiments, which are explained below with reference to the figures. These figures show: Fig. 1 an embodiment of a device for filling an open-topped container with a bulk product; Fig. 2 a starting position of a method for filling an open-topped container with a bulk product; Fig. 3 a first phase of the method for filling the open-topped container, wherein the container is moved into a filling position; Fig. 4 a second phase of the method, wherein the container is filled; Fig. 5 a third phase of the method, wherein a pressure level is maintained constant for settling the product; Fig. 6 a fourth phase of the method, wherein a pressure level is further reduced for degassing the product; Fig. 7 a fifth phase of the method, wherein the container is purged with an inert gas; Fig. 8 a sixth phase of the method, wherein bridging occurs at a filling channel by applying a vacuum; Fig. 9 a seventh phase of the method, wherein the container is removed from the device; and Fig.10. A rotary conveyor with several devices for filling containers. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXECUTION EXAMPLES

[0039] Fig. 1 Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a device 1 for filling an open-topped container 2 with a pourable product, in particular with coffee powder or milk powder.

[0040] The device 1 comprises a filling head 3 with a filling channel 30 having a free end 300 and with a gas channel 32. The gas channel 32 comprises a section that surrounds the filling channel 30 in an annular manner, at the free end of which a container opening 320 is provided. A gas-permeable sealing element 326 is provided at the container opening 320 for product retention. The sealing element 326 is, for example, a metal mesh or a component made of a porous material.

[0041] In the illustrated embodiment, a section 301 of the filling channel 30, which connects to the free end 300 with the outlet opening, is designed to be gas-permeable, so that when a negative pressure is generated in the gas channel 32, the pourable product can be drawn to an inner wall of this section 301 of the filling channel 30 for bridging, as described below.

[0042] The depicted gas channel 32 has a first connection opening 321 for connection to a vacuum source (not shown) and a second connection opening 322 for connection to a gas source (not shown). In a modified embodiment, instead of the two connection openings 321, 322, only one connection opening is provided, which can be fluidically connected to the vacuum source or to the gas source depending on the phase. A bypass opening 323 is also provided on the gas channel 32, by means of which the gas channel 32 can be fluidically connected to an environment.

[0043] In a Fig. 1 In the illustrated filling position, the container 2 is gas-tightly connected to the filling head 3 by means of a sealing element 4, so that gas can be discharged from the container 2 via the gas channel 32. For this purpose, the first connection opening 321 can be connected, for example, to a vacuum source (not shown), such as a vacuum pump. Likewise, gas can be supplied to the container 2 via the gas channel 32, whereby the second connection opening 322 can be connected to a gas source (not shown), in particular an Intergas reservoir.

[0044] In the illustrated embodiment, a base element 5 is provided to allow movement of the container 2 relative to the filling head 3. This base element supports the container 2 from below and, as schematically indicated by a double arrow, is movable relative to the filling head 3. In some embodiments, the device 1 is part of a Fig. 10 The illustrated rotary unit 8 has several positions 82, wherein the bottom element 5 is raised relative to the filling head 3 when the rotary unit 8 rotates, so that an upper open end of the container 2 seals against the filling head 3. In another embodiment, the filling head 3 is lowered relative to the bottom element 5, so that an upper open end of the container 2 seals against the filling head 3.

[0045] The device 1 comprises a weighing device 7, wherein the tare weight of the container 2 before filling and the fill weight of the container 2 after filling can be determined by means of the weighing device 7. In the schematically illustrated embodiment, the weighing device 7 comprises a load cell 70 provided on the base element 5.

[0046] The device 1 further comprises a gas-tight casing 6, which is located in the Fig. 1 The illustrated filling position accommodates the container 2. In the illustrated embodiment, the casing 6 is formed as a single piece with the filling head 3. The casing 6 is manufactured as a separate component and is permanently and gas-tightly connected to the filling head 3, for example by soldering, gluing or welding, or detachably connected to the filling head 3 by means of sealing elements.

[0047] The illustrated casing 6 has an open lower end 60, which can be sealed gas-tight by means of the base element 5, for example by means of a seal 65. A gas-tight gap 62 is thus created between the casing 6 and a container outer wall. In other embodiments, the casing 6 is formed as a single unit with the base element 5 and can be detachably and gas-tightly connected to the filling head 3 and / or the container 2.

[0048] The gap 62 is connected to the gas channel 32 by means of a gap connection opening 64, so that gas can be discharged from and supplied to the gap 62 via the gap connection opening 64. In other embodiments, the gap connection opening 64 is provided on the base element 5 and / or on a cover of the casing 6 adjoining the filling head 3. The connection of the gap 62 to the gas channel 32 allows simultaneous degassing and purging of the interior of the container 2 and the gap 62 surrounding the container 2 by means of a common vacuum source or a common gas source. In other embodiments, an additional vacuum source and / or an additional gas source is provided for the gap 62.

[0049] A control unit 9 is provided for a phased connection of the gas channel 32 to the vacuum source or to the gas source. The control unit 9 is wired or wirelessly coupled to the weighing unit 7 for data exchange, whereby the control unit 9 evaluates the data acquired by the weighing unit 7 and, if a recorded fill weight falls below a target weight,

[0050] The control device 9 includes an electronic control unit in its various configurations. The gas channel 32 is connected to the vacuum source or to the gas source by means of the electronic control unit, which can open or close valves provided at the connection openings 321, 322.

[0051] In other embodiments, the control device comprises a mechanical control unit with an actuating disc, wherein the actuating disc and the filling head are movable relative to each other. Depending on the positioning of the filling head 3 relative to the actuating disc, the connection openings 321, 322 are connected to or disconnected from the vacuum source or the gas source, respectively, and in particular, closed, by means of the actuating disc. The actuating disc is further designed such that, depending on the positioning of the filling head 3 relative to the actuating disc, the bypass opening 323 is either opened for a fluidic connection of the gas channel 32 with the environment or closed for a disconnection of the connection. The use of a mechanical control device allows for a valve-free design for degassing and / or gas injection.

[0052] A method for filling the container 2 using the device 1 is described below with reference to the Fig. 2 bis 10 described.

[0053] Fig. 2 Figure 1 shows a starting position of the process, with the filling head 3 positioned above and spaced apart from the container 2. A connection to the vacuum source via the first connection opening 321 and a connection to the gas source via the second connection opening 322 are interrupted, as schematically indicated by crosses. The gas channel 32 can be connected to the environment via the bypass opening. In other embodiments, the connection is also interrupted.

[0054] Fig. 3 schematically shows a first phase of the procedure, in a Zone II in Fig. 10 The container 2 is lifted towards the filling head 3 by means of the base element 5 and moved into the filling position. In the filling position, the open end of the container 2 is sealed gas-tight by means of the filling head 3. The container 2 is inserted into the casing 6, and the open lower end of the casing 6 is sealed by means of the base element 5. The movement of the base element 5 towards a filling head 3 arranged at a constant height is advantageous for a simple design of gas supply and exhaust systems. However, designs are also conceivable in which the filling head 3 is lowered towards the base element 5. After the filling head 3 has been lowered onto the container 2, the tare weight of the container 2 can be determined by means of the weighing device 7. The tare weight is determined in a Zone III according to Fig. 10 Any weight forces applied to the weighing device 7 by the filling head 3 are also recorded in certain configurations and are included in the tare weight of the container 2.

[0055] Fig. 4 schematically shows a second phase of the process, the filling phase, Zone IV in Fig. 10 , whereby the container 2 is filled. For this purpose, the gas channel 32 is connected via the first connection opening 321 to a vacuum source (not shown). By means of the vacuum source, a vacuum is generated via the container opening 320 of the gas channel 32 and via the gap connection opening 64 in the container 2 or in the gap 62. The connection of the gas channel 32 to the environment via the bypass opening 323 remains open, so that a vacuum with a first pressure level is established. The vacuum in the container causes the pourable product to be drawn into the container 2 via the filling channel 30. The gas-permeable sealing element 326 at the container opening 320 prevents the product from entering the gas channel 32.

[0056] Filling takes place up to a maximum of Fig. 5 The maximum filling height shown corresponds to an immersion depth of the free end 300 of the filling channel 30 into the container 2.

[0057] After completion of the filling phase, the fill weight of container 2 can be recorded using the weighing device 7, Zone V in Fig. 10 Any weight forces applied to the weighing device 7 by the filling head 3 are also recorded in certain embodiments and are included in the filling weight of the container 2. In some embodiments, a pressure difference is also recorded when determining the filling weight compared to the pressure when determining the tare weight and is taken into account in the calculation.

[0058] By means of the control unit 9 (see Fig. 1 The fill weight is comparable to a target weight. In some configurations, the target weight is the target net weight of the filled product, whereby, for the comparison, the recorded tare weight is either subtracted from the recorded fill weight or added to the target weight.

[0059] Fig. 5 shows a third phase of the process after completion of product filling, also known as the resting phase, in a Zone VI in Fig. 10 , wherein a pressure level is kept constant for settling the product in the container 2. The connection opening 321 remains open in one embodiment.

[0060] Provided that the comparison of the fill weight with the target weight in Zone V according to Fig. 10 If the fill weight is below the target weight, refilling can occur before, during, or after the resting phase. For this purpose, in the illustrated embodiment, the filling channel 30 is moved relative to the container 2 by means of a schematically depicted actuator 90, thus reducing the immersion depth of the first end in the container 2 and creating a refill volume in the container 2. In the illustrated embodiment, an arrow is shown schematically in Fig. 5 As shown, the entire filling head 3 is moved upwards for refilling. The movement during refilling is within a tolerance range, such that during relative movement of the filling head 3 to the container 2, the gas-tight contact of the filling head 3 with the container 2 and a gas-tight connection between the base element 5 and the casing 62 are maintained. In other embodiments, only the filling channel 30 is moved relative to the container 2 by means of an actuator. In still other embodiments, the container 2 is moved relative to the filling channel 30 or to the entire filling head 3 by means of an actuator, either alternatively or additionally.

[0061] Fig. 6 A fourth phase of the process, also known as the degassing phase, is shown in Zone VII. Fig.10 , wherein a pressure level for degassing the product filled in the container 2 is further reduced. For this purpose, in the illustrated embodiment, the bypass opening 323 is closed, so that when the gas channel 32 is connected to the vacuum source via the first connection opening 321, a second pressure level is generated in the container 2 and in the gap 62 surrounding the container, which is below the first pressure level during product discharge (cf. Fig. 4 ). By simultaneously reducing the pressure in the container 2 and in the gap 62 surrounding the container 2, the collapse of the container 2 due to an applied negative pressure is prevented.

[0062] Fig. 7 shows a fifth phase of the process, also known as the fumigation phase, Zone VIII in Fig. 10 , wherein the container 2 is purged with an inert gas. For this purpose, the first connection opening 321 is disconnected from the vacuum source and the second connection opening 322 is fluidically connected to the gas source. Since the gap 62 is fluidically connected to the gas channel 32 via the gap connection opening 64, the gap 62 is also purged with the inert gas. In other embodiments, a different gas than that supplied to the container 2 is supplied to the gap 62 via a separate gas source.

[0063] Fig. 8 shows a sixth phase of the process, Zone IX in Fig. 10 , whereby a vacuum is applied again to form a bridge at an outlet opening 300 of the filling channel 30.

[0064] In the context of the application, bridging refers to the formation of a stable arch-like structure in the area of ​​an outlet opening 300 of the filling channel due to adhesive forces between individual particles of the product.

[0065] In the illustrated embodiment, the negative pressure for bridging is applied via the gas channel 32 used for degassing and gassing. The first connection opening 321 is fluidically connected to the negative pressure source. Due to the applied negative pressure, particles of the product present in the filling channel 30 are drawn in at the gas-permeable section 301 of the filling channel 30. This forms a so-called bridge at the outlet opening of the filling channel 30, which prevents further product dispensing when the container 2 is separated from the filling head 3. This eliminates the need for filling valves, flaps, or similar devices on the filling head 3. The negative pressure is applied for a sufficiently short period to ensure that product is drawn from the container 2 to at least a tolerable level.

[0066] In an alternative embodiment, not shown, a chamber surrounding the gas-permeable section 301 is provided, through which a vacuum can be applied to the gas-permeable section 301 to form a bridge. In one embodiment, the chamber has a connection opening for a vacuum source that does not open into the gas channel 32. The chamber is degassed or evacuated via the separate connection opening without the product being drawn from the container 2 through a container opening of the gas channel.

[0067] Fig. 9 shows a seventh phase of the process, Zone X in Fig. 10 , whereby the container 2 is removed from the device 1. For this purpose, the base element 5 with the container 2 placed on it is lowered relative to the filling head 3. The container 2 can then be fed to a closing device (not shown).

[0068] In advantageous embodiments, the device 1 is located at a position of a rotary runner with several devices 1, each according to the Figuren 1 bis 9 positions showing.

[0069] Fig. 10 Figure 1 schematically shows a rotary runner 8 in a top view. The rotary runner 8 has a turntable 80 rotating about an axis of rotation A and several positions 82, which in the illustrated embodiment 24 are evenly distributed around the circumference, with a device 1 at each position 82 according to the Figuren 1 bis 9 with one filling head 3 each (see above). Fig. 1 bis 9 ) is provided. The turntable 80 can be rotated intermittently or continuously around the axis of rotation A for movement of positions 82. For loading and unloading, in the illustrated embodiment, infeed and outfeed wheels 84, 86 are provided, which rotate synchronously with the rotary drive 8 to move each container 2 (see figure). Fig. 1 bis 9 ) to supply a container 2 to a location 82 or to remove a container 2 from a location 82. However, other loading and unloading facilities are also conceivable. Loading and unloading takes place in Zone 1 in Fig. 10 .

[0070] A rotary conveyor 8 allows for continuous process execution, whereby the various process steps of the procedure are distributed around the circumference of the rotary conveyor 8 according to the Fig. 2 bis 9 are feasible. In the illustrated embodiment, ten zones I to X are provided on the rotary runner 8 for this purpose.

[0071] In a first zone I of the rotary conveyor 8, the rotary conveyor 8 is loaded or unloaded with containers 2. After loading, the containers 2 supplied to the rotary conveyor 8 are transported by rotating the rotary conveyor 8 and pass through further zones, in the illustrated embodiment zones II to X.

[0072] In a second zone II, adjoining the first zone I in a direction of rotation indicated by an arrow, the floor elements 5 with the containers 2 are arranged as in the Fig. 2 shown raised in the direction of the filling head 3. Positions 82 are each raised in the direction of the filling head 3 by means of the sheathing 6, which can be sealed to the base element 5 (see figure). Fig. 2 und 3 ) closed off from the surroundings.

[0073] Subsequently, in Zone III, the tare weight of the container 2 with the filling head 3 mounted on it is determined. Zone III is limited to exactly one angular position at position 82 during intermittent movement of the rotary unit, or to a comparatively small angular range during continuous movement. In one configuration, the tare weight is determined using the weighing device 7 located at position 82. In other configurations, a weighing device is mounted stationary on the rotary unit 8.

[0074] After recording the tare weight, container 2 is placed in zone IV as described in Fig. 4 The container 2 is shown filled. After filling, the fill weight of the container 2 with the filling head 3 attached to it is determined in zone V. Zone V is limited to exactly one angular position at position 82 during intermittent movement of the rotary unit, or to a comparatively small angular range during continuous movement. The fill weight is determined using the weighing device 7 provided at position 82 in one configuration. In other configurations, a weighing device is mounted stationary on the rotary unit 8.

[0075] The filled product is then placed in Zone VI as shown schematically in Fig. 5 As shown. If a comparison of the recorded fill weight with a target weight shows that refilling is necessary, refilling also takes place in Zone VI.

[0076] In the subsequent Zone VII, a process takes place in Fig. 6 The degassing process shown is described below. In a subsequent Zone VIII, a further degassing process takes place. Fig. 7 The depicted process involves gassing with an inert gas.

[0077] In Zone IX, as schematically shown in Fig. 8 illustrated for bridge formation at an outlet opening of the filling channel 30 (cf. Fig. 8 ) negative pressure was applied again.

[0078] In a final zone X, the floor elements 5 are connected to the containers 2 as in Fig. 9 shown lowered relative to the filling head 3, so that the containers 2 can then be removed from the rotary runner 8.

[0079] Finally, the containers are detached in the first zone I and fed, for example, to a closing device (not shown) to close the containers.

[0080] The rotary unit 8 also serves as a mechanical control device, with a rotary unit 8 being attached to it. Fig. 10A non-visible, stationary adjusting disc is provided. With the rotation of the rotary disc 80 of the rotary unit 8, the devices 1 provided at positions 82 are moved relative to the adjusting disc, whereby, depending on the position of the filling head 3 of the respective device 1 relative to the adjusting disc, the connection openings 321, 322 are connected to or disconnected from the vacuum source or the gas source, respectively. The adjusting disc is further designed such that, depending on the position of the filling head 3 relative to the adjusting disc, the bypass opening 323 is either opened for a fluidic connection of the gas channel 32 with the environment or closed for a disconnection of the connection.The adjusting disc thus causes a vacuum to be created in the container 2 and the gap 62 for filling the containers in zone IV, and in zone VII a vacuum to be created down to a second pressure level below the first pressure level in the container 2 and the gap 62 for degassing.

Claims

1. A method for filling an open-topped container (2) with a pourable product, in particular coffee powder or milk powder, by means of a filling head (3) attached to the container (2) in a gas-tight manner, the filling head having a filling channel (30) and a gas channel (32), wherein the container (3) is received in a gas-tight casing (6) which, at least in one filling position, seals against the filling head (3) and / or the container (2) to create a gas-tight gap (62) between the casing (6) and an outer wall of the container, wherein the filling channel (30) has a free end (300) which, in the filling position, projects into the container (2) to a certain immersion depth, wherein a vacuum is generated in the container (2) and in the gap (62) during a filling phase, wherein the vacuum in the container (2) causes the product to be discharged via the filling channel (30) up to a filling level that corresponds at least substantially to the immersion depth.and wherein, after the filling phase, a gas supply to the container (2) and to the gap (62) takes place in a gassing phase, wherein at least an inert gas is supplied to the container (2) during the gassing phase, characterized by the fact that After the filling phase and before the gassing phase, the filling weight of the container (2) is recorded and compared with a target weight, with refilling taking place if the recorded filling weight is below the target weight.

2. Method according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that For refilling, at least the filling channel (30) of the filling head (3) is moved relative to the container (2) so that the immersion depth of the free end (300) in the container (2) is reduced and a refill volume is created in the container (2), in particular maintaining a gas-tight connection between the filling head (3) and the container (2) during refilling.

3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the fact that Before the filling phase, a tare weight of the container (2) is recorded.

4. Method according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized by the fact that The container (2) rests on a base element (5) during the filling phase, wherein a load cell (70) of the weighing device (7) is provided on the base element.

5. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by the fact that During the filling phase, a vacuum is generated down to a first pressure level, and before the gassing phase, a vacuum is generated down to a second pressure level below the first pressure level in a degassing phase for the degassing of the container (2).

6. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by the fact that After the filling phase and before the gassing phase, a pressure level is maintained in the container (2) and in the gap (62) during a resting phase to allow the product to settle at a constant pressure level, with refilling occurring before, after or as an interruption of the resting phase.

7. Device for filling an open-topped container (2) with a pourable product, in particular with coffee powder or milk powder, comprising a filling head (3) and a gas-tight casing (6) that receives the container (2) in a filling position, wherein the filling head (3) comprises a filling channel (30) having a free end (300) and a gas channel (32) having a container opening (320) and a connection opening (321, 322), wherein in the filling position the free end (300) of the filling channel (30) projects into the container (2) to an immersion depth, wherein in the filling position gas can be discharged from the container (2) and gas can be supplied to the container (2) via the gas channel (32), wherein the casing (6) seals against the filling head (3) and / or the container (2) at least in the filling position to form a gas-tight gap (62) between the casing (62) and a container outer wall, wherein a gap connection opening (64) is provided,wherein gas can be discharged from the gap (62) and gas can be supplied to the gap (62) via the gap connection opening (64), wherein a control device (9) is provided which is configured to fluidically connect the container (2) and the gap (62) to a vacuum source in a filling phase such that a vacuum can be generated in the container (2) and the gap (62), wherein the vacuum in the container (2) causes product discharge via the filling channel (30) up to a filling level at least substantially corresponding to the immersion depth, and wherein the control device (9) is configured to fluidly connect the container (2) and the gap (62) to a gassing source after the filling phase in such a way that a gas can be supplied to the container (2) and the gap (62), wherein at least an inert gas can be supplied to the container (2) in the gassing phase, , characterized by the fact thata weighing device (7) is provided for recording the filling weight of the container (2), wherein the control device (9) is further configured to record the filling weight of the container (2) after the filling phase and before the gassing phase and to compare it with a target weight, and to effect refilling if the recorded filling weight is below the target weight.

8. Device according to claim 7, characterized by the fact that An actuator is provided which is configured to move at least the filling channel (30) of the filling head (3) relative to the container (2) for refilling, in order to reduce the immersion depth of the free end (300) in the container (2) and to create a refill volume in the container (2), wherein, in particular, during refilling, the filling head (3) is in a sealing position against the container.

9. Device according to claim 7 or 8, characterized by the fact thatthe control device (9) is set up to determine a tare weight of the container by means of the weighing device before the filling phase.

10. Device according to claim 7, 8 or 9, characterized by the fact that the weighing device (7) comprises a load cell (70), wherein a base element (5) is provided on which the container (2) rests during the filling phase, and wherein the load cell (70) is provided on the base element (5).

11. Device according to any one of claims 7 to 10, characterized by the fact that In the filling phase, a vacuum can be generated down to a first pressure level, wherein after the filling phase and before the gassing phase, in a degassing phase, the container (2) and the gap (62) can be fluidically connected to the vacuum source for degassing by means of the control device (9) in such a way that a vacuum can be generated down to a second pressure level below the first pressure level in the container (2) and the gap (62).

12. Device according to any one of claims 7 to 11, characterized by the fact that the control device (9) is further configured to maintain a pressure level in the container (2) and in the gap (62) during a rest phase after the filling phase and before the gassing phase, for the product to settle at a constant pressure level, whereby refilling can be effected before, after or as an interruption of the rest phase.

13. Rotary runner comprising several positions distributed around the circumference, at each of which a device according to one of claims 7 to 12 is provided.

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