Sealing device for connecting closures and containers, production machine comprising a corresponding sealing device, and method for connecting closures and containers

Abstract

The invention relates to a sealing device for connecting closures (12) and containers (14), said sealing device comprising: a sealing unit (16) which has a sealing element (18) for connecting the closure (12) to a container (14); and an electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit (20) which has a conveying element (22) on which the container (14) can be arranged and which can be moved transversely to a conveying plane (24) of the drive unit (20). The sealing unit (16) has a holding element (28, 30) to which the container (14) arranged on the conveying element (22) can be transferred by means of a movement of the conveying element (22) transversely to the conveying plane (24) of the drive unit, in the process of which the container arranged on the conveying element can be picked up by the holding element, wherein the holding element is mounted so as to be pivotable about an axis of movement of the holding element extending substantially parallel to the conveying plane or is mounted so as to be translational along an axis of movement of the holding element extending substantially parallel to the conveying plane.

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Sealing device for connecting closures and containers, production machine with a corresponding sealing device and method for connecting closures and containers

[0003] State of the art

[0004] The invention relates to a sealing device for connecting closures, in particular lids, and containers, in particular cups, with at least one sealing unit which comprises at least one, in particular movably mounted, sealing element which is intended to act by means of vibrations, by means of heat and / or by means of force on a closure to connect, in particular weld, the closure to a container.

[0005] Sealing devices are already known in which containers are arranged in format-specific receptacles, in so-called cell boards, wherein the receptacles are movable, for example, by means of transport chains along predetermined movement paths, in particular in one plane. The transport of the receptacles and thus of the containers can be carried out continuously or intermittently with the known sealing devices. Flexible transport of the containers is not possible using the known sealing devices, since the transport chains only allow transport in one plane and all the receptacles transported by the transport chain can only be moved or stopped together. In addition, changing the format of the containers to be processed using the known sealing devices requires time-consuming conversion or replacement measures. Furthermore, for example, DE 10 2016 111 357 A1 and

[0006] US 2022 / 0402638 A1 already discloses sealing devices for connecting closures and containers, wherein the known sealing devices each comprise at least one sealing unit comprising at least one sealing element which is provided for acting by means of vibrations, by means of heat and / or by means of force on a closure to connect the closure to a container, and at least one electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit which has at least one conveying element on which the container can be arranged and which is movable transversely to a conveying plane of the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit.

[0007] The object of the invention is, in particular, to provide a generic sealing device and a generic method with improved properties regarding flexibility and / or precision within a transport and / or sealing process. This object is achieved according to the invention by the features of claim 1 and claim 8, respectively, while advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention can be found in the subclaims.

[0008] Disclosure of the invention

[0009] The invention is based on a sealing device, in particular an end-sealing device, for a, in particular complete, connection of closures, in particular lids, and containers, in particular cups, with at least one sealing unit, in particular an end-sealing unit, which comprises at least one, in particular movably mounted, sealing element, which is intended to act by means of vibrations, by means of heat and / or by means of force on a closure to connect, in particular weld, the closure to a container, and with at least one electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit, which has at least one conveying element, in particular a mover, on, in particular on which the container can be arranged and which is movable transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to a conveying plane of the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit,in particular to move the container arranged on the conveyor element towards the sealing unit.

[0010] It is proposed that the sealing unit, in particular end sealing unit, has at least one, in particular movable, holding element, to which the container arranged on the conveying element can be transferred by means of a movement of the conveying element transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane of the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit or can be brought into a receiving position in which the container arranged on the conveying element can be received by the holding element, wherein the holding element is mounted pivotably about a movement axis of the holding element, in particular at least substantially parallel to the conveying plane, preferably to a horizontal plane, or that the holding element is mounted translationally along at least one movement axis of the holding element, in particular at least substantially parallel to the conveying plane, preferably horizontal plane.By means of the configuration according to the invention, a high degree of flexibility can advantageously be realized within a transport and / or sealing process. Precise positioning of the containers can advantageously be enabled, particularly since the linear or planar drive unit has a high degree of movement precision, particularly with an accuracy in the range of a few tenths of a millimeter. Reliable pre-sealing of the closures on the containers can advantageously be enabled, in which the closures are completely bonded to a container rim. Precise alignment of the closure and the container relative to the sealing element can advantageously be realized.Advantageously, the processing of containers and closures within a wide tolerance range can be enabled, particularly since deviations from tolerances, preferably even outside permissible tolerance ranges, can be advantageously compensated for by moving the conveying element, in particular the mover. The effort and costs for redesigns in the event of changes to tolerance ranges or changes to the formats to be processed can be advantageously kept low or even avoided, particularly since the individual movement option of the conveying element, in particular the mover, allows for easy adaptation to new tolerance ranges or changed formats.Preferably, the movement of the container in the direction of the sealing unit by means of the conveying element is intended to transfer the container to a holding element, in particular a counterholder, of the sealing unit or to bring the sealing element into contact with the closure arranged on the container. When carrying out a sealing process with the container arranged on the conveying element, it is conceivable that a type of counterholder is arranged on the conveying element, against which at least an underside of a container edge of the container can be placed and which is intended to support sealing forces. The movement of the container in the direction of the sealing unit can preferably be realized in various ways by means of the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit, in particular by means of the conveying element.For example, it is conceivable that, particularly in a design of the conveying element with six degrees of freedom, a movement of the container in the direction of the sealing unit can be realized as a result of a movement of the conveying element along the direction running transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane or as a result of a tilting movement of the conveying element about a movement axis of the conveying element extending at least substantially parallel to the conveying plane. The term "substantially perpendicular" is intended in particular to define an orientation of a direction relative to a reference direction, wherein the direction and the reference direction, in particular viewed in a projection plane, enclose an angle of 90° and the angle has a maximum deviation of in particular less than 8°, advantageously less than 5°, and particularly advantageously less than 2°.Preferably, the conveying element is, in particular additionally, movable at least substantially parallel to the conveying plane. "Substantially parallel" is understood to mean, in particular, an alignment of a direction relative to a reference direction, in particular in a plane, wherein the direction has a deviation from the reference direction of, in particular, less than 8°, advantageously less than 5°, and particularly advantageously less than 2°.

[0011] Furthermore, it is conceivable, for example, that, particularly in a configuration of the conveying element and a further conveying element of the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit with six degrees of freedom, a lifting mechanism is arranged on the conveying element, which can be moved / driven by means of a self-drive arranged on the conveying element or which can be moved / driven as a result of a relative movement between the conveying element and the further conveying element, on which an actuating element that interacts with the lifting mechanism is preferably arranged, in order to realize a movement of the container in the direction of the sealing unit. Furthermore, it is conceivable, for example, that the conveying element is movable in the region of the sealing unit along an arcuate path, wherein a curvature of the arcuate path runs transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicular, to the conveying plane, in order to realize a movement of the container in the direction of the sealing unit.Furthermore, it is conceivable, for example, that a guide rail is arranged in the area of ​​the sealing unit, which, as the conveyor element moves past the guide rail, interacts with a lifting mechanism arranged on the conveyor element to achieve a movement of the container toward the sealing unit. Other configurations and / or functions of the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit that would be deemed appropriate by a person skilled in the art for achieving a movement of the container toward the sealing unit are also conceivable.

[0012] The sealing unit is preferably provided for locally and materially connecting a closure arranged on the container, in particular a closure already partially connected to the container, to the container by means of a force and / or energy transfer. The term “provided” should be understood in particular to mean specially programmed, specially set up, specially designed and / or specially equipped. The fact that an object is provided for a specific function should be understood in particular to mean that the object fulfils and / or performs this specific function in at least one application and / or operating state. The sealing unit preferably has a mode of operation and / or design that is already known to a person skilled in the art. The sealing unit can be a heat-sealing unit, a high-frequency sealing unit, such as a sonotrode sealing unit or the like., or as another sealing unit deemed appropriate by a person skilled in the art, which is intended to completely connect a closure arranged on the container, in particular a closure already partially connected to the container, to the container by means of vibrations, heat, and / or force, in particular such that the container is sealed in a fluid-tight manner. The sealing unit is preferably designed as an end-sealing unit.It is conceivable that the sealing device or a production machine comprising the sealing device comprises a further sealing unit, in particular a pre-sealing unit, which is intended to bond a closure arranged on the container, in particular loosely, to the container at least in places by means of vibrations, heat and / or force, in particular before the closure is completely connected to the container by means of the final sealing unit. The further sealing unit can be arranged as a separate processing station of the production machine or, together with the sealing unit, form a processing station of the production machine.

[0013] The sealing unit preferably comprises at least one drive element for moving the sealing element along a sealing direction, in particular toward the container, preferably along a vertical direction. The drive element is particularly intended to bring the sealing element into physical contact with the closure for sealing the closure and the container, and in particular to remove it from the closure after sealing. The drive element is preferably designed as a linear drive, a stepper motor, a servo drive, or as a further conveyor element, in particular as a further mover, of the linear or planar drive unit.The sealing element preferably has a sealing surface that corresponds at least to the total surface of a container rim top side of a container rim of the container, in particular to enable complete connection of the closure to the container along the container rim top side during final sealing of the closure to the container. The sealing element is preferably provided for symmetrical force introduction to the closure and / or the container, in particular to counteract tipping of the container during a sealing process. For example, the sealing element can have a self-contained shape, such as a circular ring, a cuboid frame, or the like, at least in the region of the sealing surface, in particular to enable symmetrical force introduction. It is also conceivable for the sealing unit to comprise a plurality of sealing elements that are arranged symmetrically, in particular to enable symmetrical force introduction.Further configurations and / or arrangements of one or more sealing elements of the sealing unit that would appear appropriate to a person skilled in the art to enable symmetrical force introduction are also conceivable. The container edge top side is preferably a side of the container that faces away from a standing side of the container, by means of which the container can be arranged, in particular stands, on the conveying element, in particular the mover.

[0014] The electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit preferably has a design already known to a person skilled in the art. The electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit preferably comprises a plurality of, in particular horizontally aligned, linear motion elements or planar motion elements, which are equipped with electromagnetic drive elements and are connected to one another, in particular to jointly form a movement path or a planar movement plane. The electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit preferably comprises a plurality of conveying elements, in particular movers, which are movable relative to the linear motion elements or planar motion elements, in particular contactlessly, in particular as a result of an interaction of permanent magnets of the conveying elements, in particular the movers, with the electromagnetic drive elements of the linear motion elements or the planar motion elements.In particular, the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit can detect and evaluate a position of the individual conveying elements, in particular of the individual movers, relative to the linear motion elements or to the planar motion elements in a manner already known to a person skilled in the art, in order to control or regulate a movement of the conveying elements, in particular of the movers. With regard to a basic mode of operation and / or a basic design of the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit of the sealing device according to the invention, reference is made, for example, to the products XTS (linear transport system) and XPIanar (planar transport system) from Beckhoff Automation GmbH & Co. KG or to the product XBot® (planar transport system) from Planar Motor Inc.Products can be handled particularly flexibly using the mover or movers of the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit. The conveying element preferably has at least two degrees of freedom, preferably more than two degrees of freedom, and particularly preferably six degrees of freedom. Most preferably, the sealing device comprises the electrodynamic planar drive unit.

[0015] It is conceivable that the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit is provided, in particular solely, for transporting the container in the vicinity of the sealing unit or that the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit is provided for transporting the container through at least substantially the entire production machine comprising the sealing device. In one embodiment of the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit, in particular solely for transport in the vicinity of the sealing unit, it is conceivable that the production machine has a transport device, such as a transport chain or the like, and a handling device, such as a gripper unit or the like, by means of which the container can be removed, for example, from a format-specific holder that can be conveyed by means of the transport device, such as a cell board or the like., are removable and can be fed to the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit and, in particular, can be transferred back to the format-specific holder after final sealing. Other transport options within the production machine that appear appropriate to a specialist, in particular for feeding or removing to or from individual processing stations of the production machine, are also conceivable.

[0016] The conveying element, in particular the mover, is preferably provided to move the container relative to the sealing unit, in particular to align the container arranged on the conveying element, preferably together with the closure arranged on the container, in particular already connected to the container in places, relative to the sealing element and / or the holding element. It is conceivable that several containers can be arranged on the conveying element simultaneously or that only a single container can be arranged on the conveying element.When multiple containers are arranged simultaneously on the conveyor element, preferably each container arranged on the conveyor element is individually positioned relative to the sealing unit, or the sealing unit is designed such that the containers arranged on the conveyor element can be positioned together relative to the sealing unit, and the sealing unit can process all containers arranged on the conveyor element, in particular simultaneously. Other functional modes of the conveyor element and / or the sealing unit that would be deemed appropriate by a person skilled in the art are also conceivable.

[0017] The holding element can be movably mounted on a frame of the sealing unit or rigidly arranged on the frame of the sealing unit. With a movable mounting of the holding element according to the invention, the holding element is pivotably mounted about a movement axis of the holding element, in particular one running at least substantially parallel to the conveying plane, preferably to a horizontal plane, or is mounted translationally along at least one movement axis of the holding element, in particular one running at least substantially parallel to the conveying plane, preferably to a horizontal plane. With a translationally movable mounting of the holding element, it is additionally conceivable for the holding element to be mounted along a further movement axis of the holding element, in particular one running at least substantially perpendicular to the conveying plane, preferably to the horizontal plane.For example, it is conceivable that the holding element has a U-shaped receptacle in which the container can be received. For example, with a fixed holding element, the container can be transferred to the holding element by a movement of the conveying element along the direction running transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicular, to the conveying plane and a subsequent movement of the conveying element along a further direction running at least substantially parallel to the conveying plane. It is conceivable that the container can be inserted into the holding element, which is in particular designed with a U-shaped receptacle, for a sealing process by a vertical and subsequent horizontal movement of the conveying element.In an alternative embodiment of the sealing device, in which the holding element is movably mounted, the container can be transferred to the holding element, for example, by a movement of the conveying element along the direction running transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane and a subsequent translational movement of the holding element along the further direction running at least substantially parallel to the conveying plane or a pivoting movement of the holding element about the movement axis running, in particular at least substantially parallel to the conveying plane, preferably to a horizontal plane.It is conceivable that the container can be transferred to the holding element, which is in particular designed with a U-shaped receptacle, for a sealing process by a vertical movement of the conveying element and a subsequent horizontal movement of the holding element, in particular due to a translational movement or a pivoting movement of the holding element. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the sealing unit comprises a plurality of holding elements, in particular movably mounted ones, wherein transferring or receiving the container can take place essentially analogously to the previously described possibilities. By means of the embodiment according to the invention, secure support of the container during a sealing process can advantageously be achieved, in particular when the container is made of a recyclable material, such as a cellulose material, in particular paper material.Advantageously, a reliable sealing of thin-walled containers can be achieved, particularly while maintaining a high degree of flexibility within a transport process. Advantageously, precise positioning of the containers can be enabled. Advantageously, a precise alignment of the closure and the container relative to the sealing element can be achieved. Advantageously, a sealing device with a high degree of flexibility can be provided.

[0018] It is further proposed that the sealing unit have at least one, in particular movable, holding element, in particular the holding element already mentioned, which comprises at least one seal support surface on which the container, in particular an underside of a container rim of the container, can be supported at least during a, preferably complete, connection process of the closure and the container, in particular after transfer to the holding element or after reception by the holding element. The seal support surface of the holding element is preferably arranged on a side of the holding element facing the sealing unit, in particular at least during a sealing process using the sealing unit. The seal support surface of the holding element is preferably arranged on a side of the holding element facing away from the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit, in particular at least during a sealing process using the sealing unit.The sealing unit preferably has a plurality of holding elements, in particular at least two holding elements, wherein the sealing support surfaces of the plurality of holding elements are designed such that the underside of the container rim preferably rests against the sealing support surfaces over its entire surface, in particular at least when the container is arranged on the holding element(s). The holding elements together preferably form full-surface support for the cup rim. It is conceivable for the sealing unit to comprise two holding elements, each having a U-shaped receptacle, wherein in at least one operating state the U-shaped receptacles together essentially completely encompass the container, in particular along a circumferential direction of the container running in a plane parallel to the conveying plane.Other designs of seal support surfaces that appear sensible to a person skilled in the art and that enable at least substantially full-surface support are also conceivable. By means of the design according to the invention, a reliable sealing process can advantageously be realized. Secure support of the container during a sealing process can advantageously be achieved, in particular when the container is designed from a recyclable material, such as a cellulose material, in particular paper material. Reliable sealing of thin-walled containers can advantageously be realized, in particular while maintaining a high level of flexibility within a transport process. Precise positioning of the containers can advantageously be enabled. Precise alignment of the closure and the container relative to the sealing element can advantageously be realized.A sealing device with a high degree of flexibility can advantageously be provided.

[0019] Furthermore, in particular in at least one exemplary embodiment of the sealing device, it is proposed that the conveying element have a variably adjustable container receptacle, the receptacle dimensions of which, in particular the receptacle height and / or receptacle width, can be adjusted depending on at least one dimension of the container that can be arranged, in particular is arranged, on the conveying element. Preferably, at least the standing side of the container can be arranged in the container receptacle. The container receptacle comprises, for example, at least one lateral support element that is intended to prevent the container from slipping when the container is arranged on the conveying element, or at least to counteract slipping. Preferably, the lateral support element is arranged on the conveying element in a positionally adjustable manner. The lateral support element can be arranged on the conveying element in such a way that its position can be adjusted continuously or in steps.It is also conceivable for the container receptacle to comprise a plurality of lateral support elements arranged on the conveying element in a positionally adjustable manner. For example, two lateral support elements of the container receptacle are automatically or manually mounted so as to be movable relative to one another in order to adapt to a container's transverse extent, in particular a cup diameter, in order to enable advantageous lateral support of the container during transport and / or advantageously secure vertical support during final sealing. It is also conceivable for the lateral support element(s) to be arranged in a fixed position on the conveying element, in particular to be arranged interchangeably on the conveying element, or to be formed integrally with the conveying element.The term “one-piece” should be understood in particular to mean at least materially connected, for example by a welding process, an adhesive process, an injection molding process and / or another process that appears appropriate to a person skilled in the art, and / or advantageously formed in one piece, for example by production from a single casting and / or by production using a single-component or multi-component injection molding process and advantageously from a single blank. Alternatively or in addition to the container receptacle, it is conceivable for the conveying element to have a contact surface against which the upright side of the container rests when the container is arranged on the conveying element, wherein the contact surface has an adhesive coating in order to influence friction between the container and the conveying element. The design according to the invention can advantageously enable containers to be arranged securely on the conveying element.Advantageously, a flexible adjustment of the container holder to different container formats can be enabled. Advantageously, a precise positioning of the containers can be enabled. Advantageously, a precise alignment of the closure and the container relative to the sealing element can be realized. Furthermore, it is proposed, in particular in at least one exemplary embodiment of the sealing device, that the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit has at least one holding tool conveyor element which is movable relative to the conveyor element and on which at least the holding element of the sealing unit is arranged. The holding tool conveyor element has in particular at least two degrees of freedom, preferably more than two degrees of freedom and particularly preferably six degrees of freedom. The holding element can be arranged movable or rigidly on the holding tool conveyor element.With a rigid arrangement of the holding element on the holding tool conveyor element, a movement of the holding tool conveyor element for picking up or transferring the container can preferably be realized by a movement, in particular at least horizontal, of the holding tool conveyor element relative to the conveyor element on which the container with the closure connected thereto in places is arranged, and relative to the linear movement elements or the surface movement elements, or by a movement, in particular vertical, of the conveyor element on which the container with the closure connected thereto in places is arranged, relative to the holding tool conveyor element and relative to the linear movement elements or the surface movement elements. A combination of the two aforementioned, in particular vertical, relative movements is also possible in order to exert a sealing force on the closure arranged on the container.Further arrangements, configurations, movements, and / or functions of the holding tool conveyor element that appear appropriate to a person skilled in the art are also conceivable. Transferring the container to the holding element arranged on the holding tool conveyor element or receiving the container from the holding element can be carried out at least essentially analogously to the previously described options for transferring or receiving the container. By means of the configuration according to the invention, a high degree of flexibility can advantageously be realized within a transport and / or sealing process.Advantageously, a simple and flexible replacement can be made possible in the event of a defect in the holding element, which can advantageously be carried out without a machine stop, in particular since the holding element can be removed from the surface movement elements together with the holding tool conveyor element and can be replaced by another holding element arranged on a further holding tool conveyor element.

[0020] Furthermore, it is proposed that the sealing device comprises at least one sensor unit, in particular arranged in the vicinity of the sealing unit, for detecting a position of the container arranged on, in particular on, the conveying element relative to the sealing unit and / or relative to the conveying element.A “near range” should be understood in particular as an area which has a maximum distance of in particular less than 100 cm, preferably less than 50 cm and particularly preferably less than 25 cm relative to a reference unit and / or to a reference element, such as the sealing unit mentioned in the sentence above, or an area in which a reference unit and / or a reference element, such as the sealing unit mentioned in the sentence above, is arranged and the area has a maximum extent, in particular a maximum diameter, which is less than 200 cm, preferably less than 100 cm and particularly preferably less than 50 cm. The sensor unit is preferably designed as an optical sensor unit, such as a camera, a light barrier unit or the like.However, it is also conceivable for the sensor unit to have a different design that would appear appropriate to a person skilled in the art, such as a design as a capacitive or inductive area sensor unit, as a distance sensor unit, or the like. Preferably, the sensor unit is connected, in particular via data or signal technology, to a control or regulating unit of the sealing device, in particular the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit or the production machine. Preferably, the data or signals acquired by the sensor unit can be evaluated by the control or regulating unit, in particular for controlling or regulating a movement of the conveying element relative to the sealing unit, preferably as a function of the position of the container on the conveying element. A “control or regulating unit” is to be understood in particular as a unit with at least one control electronics unit.The term “control electronics” should be understood in particular to mean a unit with a processor unit and a memory unit as well as with an operating program stored in the memory unit. The sensor unit is preferably provided to detect an arrangement of the container relative to at least one outer edge of the conveying element or to at least one outer edge of a container receptacle of the conveying element, in particular in order to be able to determine a position of the container on the conveying element by means of the control or regulating unit. It is also conceivable that, on the basis of the data detected by means of the sensor unit, an orientation of the container, such as an inclination of the container relative to the conveying element, a rotational position of the container relative to the conveying element or the like, can be evaluated in a state arranged on the conveying element, in particular in order to detect, for example, an incorrect position of the container, an orientation of a handle or grip of the container or the like.to be able to determine. By means of the configuration according to the invention, a precise positioning of the container relative to the sealing unit can advantageously be enabled by means of the conveyor element. A precise alignment of the closure and the container relative to the sealing element can advantageously be realized. A high degree of flexibility of the sealing device can advantageously be enabled, since an inaccurate positioning of a container on the conveyor element can be detected by means of the sensor unit, and this inaccuracy can advantageously be compensated for by a movement of the conveyor element relative to the sealing element.

[0021] Furthermore, a production machine, in particular for filling liquid or pasty products, in particular foodstuffs, with at least one sealing device according to the invention is proposed. The production machine can comprise further devices and / or units that appear appropriate to a person skilled in the art and are intended for the production, filling, packaging and / or repackaging of foodstuffs. In addition to the sealing device, the production machine can have a plurality of further devices and / or units that a person skilled in the art considers appropriate, such as a forming device for packaging, a cutting device, a filling device, a sterilization device, an repackaging device, or the like. By means of the configuration according to the invention, a high degree of flexibility within a transport process of the production machine can advantageously be achieved.

[0022] Furthermore, the invention is based on a method for a particularly fluid-tight, preferably gas-tight, connection of closures, in particular lids, and containers, in particular cups, by means of a sealing device according to the invention. It is proposed that, in at least one method step, the conveying element, in particular the mover, together with the container arranged thereon, be moved transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane of the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit, in particular in order to move the container arranged on the conveying element in the direction of the sealing unit.It is conceivable that the conveying element, for transferring the container to or receiving it from the holding element(s), is alternatively or additionally moved horizontally relative to the conveying plane, is moved vertically relative to the conveying plane, is rotated about a vertical axis running at least substantially perpendicular to the conveying plane, is tilted about a horizontal axis running at least substantially parallel to the conveying plane and / or is moved about and / or along another movement path or movement axis. By means of the configuration according to the invention, a high level of flexibility can advantageously be realized within a transport and / or sealing process. Precise positioning of the containers can advantageously be enabled, in particular because the linear or planar drive unit has a high level of movement precision, in particular with an accuracy in the range of a few tenths of a millimeter.This advantageously enables reliable end sealing of the closures on the containers, whereby the closures are fluid-tightly connected to a container rim. This advantageously enables secure support of the container for a fluid-tight seal.

[0023] It is further proposed that, in at least one method step of the method, the container arranged on the conveying element is transferred to at least one holding element, in particular to the previously mentioned one, as a result of the movement of the conveying element along a direction running transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane of the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit, or is moved into a receiving position in which the container arranged on the conveying element is received by the holding element as a result of a movement of the holding element. By means of the embodiment according to the invention, a secure support of the container during a sealing process can advantageously be achieved, in particular when the container is designed from a recyclable material, such as a cellulose material, in particular paper material.Advantageously, a reliable sealing of thin-walled containers can be achieved, particularly while maintaining a high degree of flexibility within a transport process. Advantageously, precise positioning of the containers can be enabled. Advantageously, a precise alignment of the closure and the container relative to the sealing element can be achieved. Advantageously, a sealing device with a high degree of flexibility can be provided.

[0024] Furthermore, it is proposed that in at least one method step of the method, the container, in particular an underside of a container rim of the container, is supported at least during a connection process of the closure and the container by means of at least one, in particular movable, holding element, in particular the aforementioned holding element, of the sealing unit, in particular after the container has been transferred to the holding element or after the container has been received by the holding element. By means of the embodiment according to the invention, a reliable sealing process can advantageously be realized. Secure support of the container during a sealing process can advantageously be achieved, in particular when the container is designed from a recyclable material, such as a cellulose material, in particular paper material.Advantageously, a reliable sealing of thin-walled containers can be achieved, particularly while maintaining a high degree of flexibility within a transport process. Advantageously, precise positioning of the containers can be enabled. Advantageously, a precise alignment of the closure and the container relative to the sealing element can be achieved. Advantageously, a sealing device with a high degree of flexibility can be provided.

[0025] The sealing device according to the invention, the production machine according to the invention, and / or the method according to the invention are not intended to be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the sealing device according to the invention, the production machine according to the invention, and / or the method according to the invention can have a number of individual elements, components, units, and method steps that differs from the number stated herein in order to fulfill a function described herein. Furthermore, in the value ranges specified in this disclosure, values ​​within the stated limits are also to be considered disclosed and can be used arbitrarily.

[0026] Drawings

[0027] Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate an exemplary embodiment of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. Those skilled in the art will also expediently consider the features individually and combine them into useful further combinations.

[0028] They show:

[0029] Fig. 1 A production machine according to the invention with at least one sealing device according to the invention in a schematic representation,

[0030] Fig. 2 is a side view of the sealing device according to the invention during feeding of a container to a sealing unit of the sealing device according to the invention, wherein a closure is already partially connected to the container, in a schematic representation,

[0031] Fig. 3 is a plan view of the sealing device according to the invention shown in Fig. 2 in a schematic representation,

[0032] Fig. 4 is a further side view of the sealing device according to the invention, wherein the container is moved in the direction of the sealing unit by means of a conveying element of an electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit of the sealing device according to the invention, in a schematic representation,

[0033] Fig. 5 shows a further side view of the sealing device according to the invention, wherein the container is arranged on at least one holding element of the sealing unit for carrying out a sealing process, in a schematic representation and

[0034] Fig. 6 shows a schematic process flow of a method according to the invention for connecting closures and containers.

[0035] Description of the embodiment

[0036] Figure 1 shows a production machine 50 with at least one sealing device 10, in particular an end-sealing device, for a, particularly complete, connection of closures 12, in particular lids, and containers 14, in particular cups (see Figures 1 to 5). The production machine 50 is preferably intended for the manufacture and / or processing of products, in particular foodstuffs. The production machine 50 can be designed, for example, as a food packaging machine, as a food filling machine, as a food production machine, as a combination of the aforementioned machines, or the like. The production machine 50 preferably comprises at least one container feed device 54 for feeding the containers 14 to the production machine 50, in particular to an electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit 20 of the production machine 50.The production machine 50 preferably comprises at least one, in particular further, sealing device 56, in particular a pre-sealing device, for at least partially connecting the closures 12 and containers 14. In particular, the production machine 50 comprises at least one gassing device 58, in particular a food gassing device, for gassing the at least partially closed containers 14. The production machine 50 preferably comprises at least one testing device 60, in particular a leak testing device, for testing, in particular a leak test, the, in particular completely closed, containers 14.The production machine 50 may comprise further devices and / or units that appear appropriate to a person skilled in the art and are used for manufacturing and / or processing products, in particular foodstuffs, such as, for example, a sterilization device, a filling device, a closure device, a repackaging device, or the like. The container feed device 54 is designed in particular as a cup feed device and is provided for feeding the containers 14 designed as cups. The container feed device 54 preferably comprises at least one container storage unit, in particular a cup magazine (not shown in detail here) for receiving a plurality of containers 14, in particular a plurality of container stacks.Furthermore, the container feed device 54 comprises at least one removal and / or separation unit (not shown in detail here) for removing and / or separating individual containers 14 from the plurality of containers 14 arranged in the container storage unit. Furthermore, the container feed device 54 comprises, in particular at least a part of, preferably the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit 20, which has at least one tool conveying element, in particular a tool mover (not shown in detail here), on, in particular on which at least one removal and / or separation element (not shown in detail here) of the removal and / or separation unit is arranged and which is provided at least for bringing the removal and / or separation element into contact with at least one individual container 14 of the plurality of containers 14 arranged in the container storage unit.The tool conveying element is preferably designed as a mover having a design and mode of operation already known to a person skilled in the art, as is known, for example, from the product XPianar (planar transport system) from Beckhoff Automation GmbH & Co. KG and / or the product XBot® (planar transport system) from Planar Motor Inc.

[0037] The tool conveying element is preferably movable transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to a conveying plane 24 (cf. Figures 2 to 5) of the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit 20, in particular in order to remove a single container 14 from the container storage unit by means of the removal and / or singling element. Preferably, the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit 20 comprises at least one further tool conveying element, in particular a further tool mover (not shown here), on, in particular on which at least one further removal and / or singling element (not shown here) of the removal and / or singling unit is arranged, wherein the tool conveying element and the further tool conveying element are movable independently of one another.The tool conveyor element and the additional tool conveyor element preferably cooperate to remove and / or separate individual containers 14 from the plurality of containers 14 arranged in the container storage unit. In particular, the tool conveyor element and the additional tool conveyor element are movable together along a direction 26 extending transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane 24 of the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit 20.The removal and / or separation unit preferably comprises at least one container guide element, in particular a guide rail or guide extension (not shown in detail here), which is arranged on the tool conveyor element and is provided for guiding a container 14 removed or released from the container storage unit by means of the removal and / or separation element during a movement of the container 14 to a conveyor element 22 of the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit 20, which conveyor element is movable relative to the tool conveyor element. The container 14 can preferably be transferred to the conveyor element 22 by means of the removal and / or separation unit and / or by means of the tool conveyor element and the further tool conveyor element, in particular for further transport to various processing stations of the production machine 50 by means of the conveyor element 22.The conveying element 22 is preferably designed as a mover which has a design and mode of operation already known to a person skilled in the art, as is known, for example, from the product XPianar (planar transport system) from Beckhoff Automation GmbH & Co. KG and / or the product XBot® (planar transport system) from Planar Motor Inc.

[0038] The conveying element 22 preferably has a variably adjustable container receptacle 40 (shown in dashed lines in Figure 2) for receiving at least one container 14, the receiving dimension 42 of which, in particular the receiving height and / or receiving width, is adjustable depending on at least one dimension of the container 14 removed and / or separated by means of the removal and / or separation element. The container receptacle 40 comprises, for example, at least one lateral support element 62, 64, which is provided to prevent the container 14 from slipping when the container 14 is arranged on the conveying element 22, or at least to counteract slipping. The lateral support element 62, 64 is preferably arranged on the conveying element 22 in such a way that its position can be adjusted continuously or in steps.It is also conceivable that the container receptacle 40 comprises a plurality of lateral support elements 62, 64, which are arranged on the conveying element 22 in a positionally adjustable manner. For example, two lateral support elements 62, 64 of the container receptacle 40 are automatically or manually mounted so as to be movable relative to one another in order to adapt to a container transverse extent, in particular a cup diameter, in order to enable advantageous lateral support of the container 14 during transport and / or advantageously secure vertical support during pre-sealing. It is also conceivable that the lateral support element(s) 62, 64 are arranged in a fixed position on the conveying element 22, in particular are arranged interchangeably on the conveying element 22, or are formed integrally with the conveying element 22. Alternatively or in addition to the container receptacle 40, it is conceivable that the conveying element 22 has a contact surface 66 (cf.for example Figure 2), against which a standing side of the container 14 rests when the container 14 is arranged on the conveying element 22, wherein the contact surface 66 has an adhesive coating or another adhesion-influencing geometry that appears appropriate to a person skilled in the art, such as a grooved, roughened surface or the like, in order to influence friction between the container 14 and the conveying element 22.

[0039] The sealing device 56, in particular the pre-sealing device, comprises at least one sealing unit, in particular a pre-sealing unit (not shown in detail here) which comprises at least one, in particular movably mounted, sealing element, which is intended to act by means of vibrations, heat, and / or force on the closure 12, arranged in particular on the container 14, to at least partially connect the closure 12 to the container 14, arranged in particular on the conveying element 22. Pre-sealing preferably takes place after a product, in particular a pasty or liquid food, has been filled into the container 14, in particular by means of a filling device (not shown in detail here) of the production machine 50.The sealing device 56, in particular the pre-sealing device, comprises, in particular at least a part of, preferably the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit 20, which has at least the conveying element 22, in particular the mover, on, in particular on which the container 14 can be arranged. Preferably, the container 14 is arranged on the conveying element 22 after a transfer by means of the removal and / or singling unit and / or by means of the tool conveying element and the further tool conveying element. The conveying element 22 is preferably provided at least for positioning the container 14 relative to the sealing unit, in particular to the pre-sealing unit. Preferably, the conveying element 22 has at least two degrees of freedom, preferably more than two degrees of freedom, and particularly preferably six degrees of freedom.It is conceivable that the conveying element 22, in order to position the container 14 relative to the sealing unit, in particular to the pre-sealing unit, is movable horizontally relative to the conveying plane 24, is movable vertically relative to the conveying plane 24, is rotatable about a vertical axis running at least substantially perpendicular to the conveying plane 24, is tiltable about a horizontal axis running at least substantially parallel to the conveying plane 24, and / or is movable about and / or along another movement path or movement axis. The conveying element 22 is preferably movable by changing a magnetic field of the linear or planar drive unit 20 acting on the conveying element 22.The conveying element 22 preferably has at least one movement axis 68 around and / or along which the conveying element 22 is movable and which extends at least substantially parallel to the conveying plane 24, and at least one further movement axis 70 around and / or along which the conveying element 22 is movable and which extends transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane 24 (cf., for example, Figures 2 to 5).

[0040] The sealing device 56, in particular the pre-sealing device, preferably comprises at least one, in particular further, sensor unit (not shown in detail here), arranged in particular in the vicinity of the sealing unit, in particular the pre-sealing unit, for detecting a position of the container 14 arranged on, in particular on, the conveying element 22 relative to the sealing unit, in particular the pre-sealing unit, and / or relative to the conveying element 22. The sensor unit is preferably designed as an optical sensor unit, such as a camera, a light barrier unit or the like. However, it is also conceivable for the sensor unit to have a different design that would appear appropriate to a person skilled in the art, such as a design as a capacitive or inductive area sensor unit, as a distance sensor unit or the like.The sensor unit can also be provided to detect the position of the closure 12 relative to the container 14 and / or to the conveying element 22, in particular during a transfer of the closure 12 to the container 14, in particular in order to be able to advantageously determine a deviation of a desired-actual position of the closure 12.

[0041] Preferably, the sensor unit is connected, in particular via data or signal technology, to a control or regulating unit 92 of the production machine 50 or the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit 20 (see Figure 1). The data or signals detected by the sensor unit can preferably be evaluated by the control or regulating unit 92, in particular for controlling or regulating a movement of the conveying element 22 relative to the sealing unit, in particular to the pre-sealing unit, preferably as a function of the position of the container 14 on the conveying element 22. Preferably, the sensor unit is provided to detect an arrangement of the container 14 relative to at least one outer edge of the conveying element 22 or to at least one outer edge of the container receptacle 40 of the conveying element 22, in particular in order to be able to determine a position of the container 14 on the conveying element 22 by means of the control or regulating unit 92.It is also conceivable that, on the basis of the data recorded by means of the sensor unit, an orientation of the container 14, such as an inclination of the container 14 relative to the conveying element 22, a rotational position of the container 18 relative to the conveying element 22 or the like, can be evaluated in a state arranged on the conveying element 22, in particular in order to be able to determine, for example, an incorrect position of the container 14, an orientation of a handle or grip of the container 14, an orientation of a lid tab of the closure 12 relative to the container 14 and / or to the conveying element 22 or the like.

[0042] The sealing device 56, in particular the pre-sealing device, comprises at least one closure transfer unit (not shown in detail here), which is provided to transfer the closure 12 from a closure storage device (not shown in detail here), in particular a lid magazine, to the container 14, in particular to place it on the container 14, which is preferably arranged on the conveyor element 22, wherein the container 14 can be positioned by means of the conveyor element 22 relative to a transfer element, in particular a vacuum gripper, (not shown in detail here) of the closure transfer unit.The closure transfer unit, in particular the transfer element, can be movably mounted on a frame of the sealing device 56, in particular the pre-sealing device, or of the production machine 50, or movably mounted on the closure storage, or can be designed to be movable relative to the frame and / or the closure storage by means of a separate conveyor element (not shown in detail here) of the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit 20. It is also conceivable for the sealing device 56, in particular the pre-sealing device, to be designed independently of the closure transfer unit, and for the container 14 to be positionable relative to the closure storage by means of the conveyor element 22, wherein the closure 12 can be transferred to the container 14, in particular by means of a separating element of the closure storage, and can be placed onto the container 14.It is conceivable that the sensor unit and / or the sealing unit, in particular the pre-sealing unit, are / is arranged on the closure storage, in particular in order to be able to pre-seal the closure 12 directly after transfer to the container 14 and / or in order to be able to save the closure transfer unit.For example, the container 14 is vertically movable by means of the conveying element 22, in particular in the direction 26 of the closure storage, in order to transfer the closure 12 from the closure storage to the container 14, wherein in particular after the closure 12 has been transferred to the container 14, the container 14 is vertically movable by means of the conveying element 22, in particular in a direction 26 facing away from the closure storage, until the conveying element 22 is in contact with a linear movement element or surface movement element 94 of the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit 20, wherein the sealing element of the sealing unit, in particular the pre-sealing unit, arranged for example on the closure storage, is movable in the direction 26 of the container 14 in order to pre-seale the closure 12 to the container 14.It is conceivable for the conveying element 22 of the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit 20 to be movable transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane 24 of the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit 20, in particular to bring the closure 12 arranged on the container 14 into contact with at least one of the sealing elements, in particular the sealing tool, of the sealing unit, in particular the pre-sealing unit. Further configurations and / or functions of the closure transfer unit, the closure storage unit, and / or the conveying element 22 that would appear appropriate to a person skilled in the art are also conceivable.

[0043] After pre-sealing the closure 12 to the container 14, the container 14, together with the closure 12 arranged thereon, can be transported to the gassing device 58 by means of the conveying element 22. The gassing device 58 comprises at least one gassing unit (not shown in detail here), which has at least one gassing element (not shown in detail here), in particular a gassing lance, for introducing a gas into the container 14, in particular into the container 14 provided with the pre-sealed closure 12. The gassing device 58 comprises, in particular at least a part of, preferably the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit 20, wherein the conveying element 22 is provided to realize a lifting movement of the container 14 relative to the gassing element along the direction 26 running transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane 24.The gassing element is preferably mounted so as to be movable relative to the conveying element 22, in particular along the direction 26 running at least substantially perpendicular to the conveying plane 24, in particular in addition to the conveying element 22 being able to move along the direction 26 running at least substantially perpendicular to the conveying plane 24. However, it is also conceivable for the gassing element to be rigidly arranged on a frame of the gassing device 58, and for the container 14 to move relative to the gassing element only as a result of the conveying element 22 being able to move along the direction 26 running at least substantially perpendicular to the conveying plane 24.

[0044] The gassing device 58 preferably comprises at least one, in particular additional, sensor unit (not shown in detail here), arranged in particular in the vicinity of the gassing unit, for detecting a position of the container 14 arranged at, in particular on, the conveying element 22 relative to the gassing unit and / or relative to the conveying element 22. Preferably, the sensor unit is further provided for detecting a position and / or orientation of the closure 12 relative to the gassing unit, relative to the container 14, and / or relative to the conveying element 22. The sensor unit is preferably designed as an optical sensor unit, such as a camera, a light barrier unit, or the like. However, it is also conceivable for the sensor unit to have another configuration that would be deemed appropriate by a person skilled in the art, such as a capacitive or inductive surface sensor unit, a distance sensor unit, a button unit, or the like.

[0045] Preferably, the sensor unit is connected, in particular via data or signaling, to the control or regulating unit 92. Preferably, the data or signals acquired by the sensor unit can be evaluated by the control or regulating unit 92, in particular for controlling or regulating a movement of the conveying element 22 relative to the gassing unit, preferably depending on the position of the container 14 on the conveying element 22 and / or on a position and / or an orientation of the closure 12 relative to the container 14 and / or relative to the conveying element 22.

[0046] The production machine 50 comprises at least one main transport direction 96 (cf. Figure 1) and at least one sealing unit 16, in particular an end-sealing unit (cf. Figures 2 to 5), preferably the sealing device 10, in particular the end-sealing device, for sealing the closure 12 to the container 14 arranged on the conveyor element 22, wherein the gassing device 58 is arranged along the main transport direction 96 in front of the sealing unit 16, in particular the end-sealing unit, wherein the conveyor element 22 is provided to move the container 14 through the gassing unit and to the sealing unit 16, in particular the end-sealing unit.

[0047] The sealing device 10, in particular the end sealing device, for a, in particular complete, connection of the closures 12 to the containers 14 preferably comprises at least the sealing unit 16, in particular the end sealing unit (cf. Figures 2 and 5), which comprises at least one, in particular movably mounted, sealing element 18, in particular end sealing element (cf. Figures 2 and 5), which is provided for acting by means of vibrations, by means of heat and / or by means of force on the closure 12 to form a connection, in particular to weld, the closure 12 to the container 14.The sealing device 10, in particular the end-sealing device, comprises, in particular at least a part of, preferably the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit 20, wherein the conveying element 22 is movable transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane 24, in particular in order to move the container 14 arranged on the conveying element 22 in the direction 26 of the sealing unit 16, in particular the end-sealing unit (see, for example, Figure 4). Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the sealing element 18 is movably mounted, in particular along the direction 26 extending transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane 24.It is further conceivable that sealing, in particular final sealing, by means of the sealing unit 16, in particular the final sealing unit, takes place / proceeds analogously to sealing, in particular pre-sealing, by means of the sealing unit, in particular the pre-sealing unit, in particular with regard to a movement of the conveying element 22 and / or the sealing element 18 of the sealing unit 16, in particular the final sealing unit, wherein the sealing element 18 of the sealing unit 16, in particular the final sealing unit, has a sealing surface which corresponds to the total surface of the container rim top side of a container rim 38 of the container 14, in particular in order to enable a complete, preferably fluid-tight, preferably gas-tight, connection of the closure 12 to the container 14 along the container rim top side during final sealing of the closure 12 to the container 14.However, it is also conceivable that the sealing, in particular final sealing, by means of the sealing unit 16, in particular the final sealing unit, takes place / proceeds differently than the sealing, in particular pre-sealing, by means of the sealing unit, in particular the pre-sealing unit.

[0048] The sealing unit 16, in particular the end sealing unit, preferably has at least one, in particular movable, holding element 28, 30 (cf. Figures 2 to 5), to which the container 14 arranged on the conveyor element 22 can be transferred by means of a movement of the conveyor element 22 transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane 24 or can be brought into a receiving position in which the container 14 arranged on the conveyor element 22 can be received by the holding element 28, 30 (cf. Figures 4 and 5 as an example). The holding element 28, 30 preferably comprises at least one sealing support surface 32, 34, on which the container 14, in particular an underside 36 of the container rim 38 of the container 14, can be supported at least during a connecting process, in particular final sealing, of the closure 12 and the container 14, in particular after a transfer to the holding element 28, 30 or after being received by the holding element 28, 30 (cf. Figures 2 to 5).The holding element 28, 30 can be movably mounted on a frame of the sealing unit 16 or can be rigidly arranged on the frame of the sealing unit 16. With a movable mounting of the holding element 28, 30, it is conceivable that the holding element 28, 30 is pivotably mounted about a movement axis 98, 100 of the holding element 28, 30, in particular running at least substantially parallel to the conveying plane 24, preferably to a horizontal plane (see Figures 2 to 5), or that the holding element 28, 30 is mounted translationally along at least one movement axis of the holding element 28, 30, in particular running at least substantially parallel to the conveying plane 24, preferably to a horizontal plane (not shown in detail here).With a translationally movable mounting of the holding element 28, 30, it is additionally conceivable for the holding element 28, 30 to be mounted along a further movement axis of the holding element 28, 30, in particular one that runs at least substantially perpendicular to the conveying plane 24, preferably to the horizontal plane (not shown in detail here). For example, it is conceivable for the holding element 28, 30 to have a U-shaped receptacle (see Figure 3) in which the container 14 can be received. It is conceivable that the container 14 can be transferred to the holding element 28, 300 or picked up by it for a sealing process by a movement of the conveying element 22 along the direction 26 running transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane 24 and a subsequent pivoting movement of the holding element 28, 30 about the movement axis 98, 100 running in particular at least substantially parallel to the conveying plane 24, preferably to a horizontal plane.The sealing unit 16 preferably comprises a plurality of holding elements 28, 30 (in particular movably mounted holding elements 28, 30 are shown by way of example in Figures 2 to 5), whereby transferring or picking up the container 14 can take place essentially analogously to the described possibility. It is conceivable for the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit 20 to have at least one holding tool conveyor element 44, 46 that is movable relative to the conveyor element 22 (in Figure 2, one holding tool conveyor element 44, 46 is shown in dashed lines for each holding element 28, 30), on which at least the holding element 28, 30 of the sealing unit 16, in particular of the final sealing unit, is arranged. The holding tool conveyor element 44, 46 is preferably designed as a mover, which has a design and mode of operation already known to a person skilled in the art, as is the case, for example, with the product XPianar (planar transport system) from Beckhoff Automation GmbH & Co.KG and / or the product XBot® (planar transport system) from Planar Motor Inc. The holding element 28, 30 can be arranged movably or rigidly on the holding tool conveyor element 44, 46.With a rigid arrangement of the holding element 28, 30 on the holding tool conveyor element 44, 46, a movement of the holding tool conveyor element 44, 46 for picking up or transferring the container 14 can preferably be realized by a, in particular at least horizontal, movement of the holding tool conveyor element 44, 46 relative to the conveyor element 22, on which the container 14 is arranged with the closure 12 connected thereto in places, and relative to the linear movement elements or the surface movement elements 94, or by a, in particular vertical, movement of the conveyor element 22, on which the container 14 is arranged with the closure 12 connected thereto in places, relative to the holding tool conveyor element 44, 46 and relative to the linear movement elements or the surface movement elements 94.Further arrangements, designs, movements and / or functions of the holding tool conveyor element 44, 46 that appear sensible to a person skilled in the art are also conceivable.

[0049] It is also conceivable that the sealing device 10, in particular the end-sealing device, comprises at least one sensor unit 48 (shown in dashed lines in Figure 2), arranged in particular in the vicinity of the sealing unit 16, in particular the end-sealing unit, for detecting a position of the container 14 arranged on, in particular on, the conveying element 22 relative to the sealing unit 16, in particular to the end-sealing unit, and / or relative to the conveying element 22, wherein the conveying element 22 is movable depending on a detected position of the container 14, in particular in order to position the container 14 relative to the sealing element 18 of the sealing unit 16, in particular the end-sealing unit, and / or to the holding element 28, 30 of the sealing unit 16, in particular the end-sealing unit.After the sealing process by the sealing unit 16, in particular the final sealing unit, the container 14, which is sealed fluid-tight, in particular gas-tight, by means of the closure 12, is moved by the conveying element 22 to the testing device 60.

[0050] The testing device 60 preferably comprises at least one testing unit (not shown in detail here), which comprises at least one testing element (not shown in detail here) which is intended to act on and / or bring into contact with the, in particular closed, container 14, preferably the closure 12 arranged on the container 14. The testing device 60 comprises, in particular at least a part of, preferably the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit 20, wherein the conveying element 22 is movable transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane 24, in particular in order to move the container 14 arranged on the conveying element 22 in the direction 26 of the testing element, preferably in order to bring the container 14 arranged on the conveying element 22, preferably the closure 12 arranged on the container 14, into contact with the testing element.The test element is preferably designed as a position-fixed heating stamp or as a position-fixed pressure plate, with which the container 14 arranged on the conveying element 22 can be brought into contact by a movement of the conveying element 22 along the direction 26 running transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane 24. The test device 60 preferably comprises at least one evaluation unit (not shown in detail here), which is provided to evaluate a movement of the conveying element 22, in particular of the conveying element 22 together with the container 14 arranged on the conveying element 22, caused in particular by an action of the test element on the container 14 arranged on the conveying element 22, in order to conclude whether the container 14, in particular the closed one, is leak-tight.Preferably, the movement of the conveying element 22, in particular of the conveying element 22 together with the container 14 arranged on the conveying element 22, can be brought about, in the case of a sealed container 14, by a bulging of the closure 12 arranged on the container 14 as a result of an expansion of the fluid caused by heating of a fluid in the container 14, in particular air, a gas introduced into the container 14 by the gassing element, or the like, or as a result of compression of the container 14 by the test element, as is already known to a person skilled in the art. The evaluation unit can be designed as a separate unit or at least partially, preferably completely, integrated into the control or regulating unit 92.

[0051] The electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit 20 can have at least one test tool conveyor element (not shown in detail here) that is movable relative to the conveyor element 22 and on which at least the test element of the test unit is arranged. The test tool conveyor element is preferably designed as a mover, which has a design and mode of operation already known to a person skilled in the art, as is known, for example, from the product XPianar (planar transport system) from Beckhoff Automation GmbH & Co. KG and / or the product XBot® (planar transport system) from Planar Motor Inc.It is also conceivable for the testing device 60 to have at least one, preferably additional, sensor unit (not shown in detail here), arranged in particular in the vicinity of the testing unit, for detecting a position of the container 14 arranged on, in particular on, the conveyor element 22 relative to the testing unit and / or relative to the conveyor element 22, wherein the conveyor element 22 is movable depending on the detected position of the container 14, in particular in order to position the container 14 relative to the testing element. After testing has been carried out by means of the testing device 60, the container 14 can be transported by means of the conveyor element 22, in particular depending on a result of the testing, to a packaging device of the production machine 50 or to a reject device of the production machine 50.

[0052] Figure 6 shows a schematic process flow of a process 52 for producing and / or processing products, in particular foodstuffs, by means of the production machine 50, wherein the closures 12 and / or the containers 14 are processed according to individual process steps. Preferably, the process 52 is provided at least for feeding containers 14 to the production machine 50, in particular to the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit 20, in particular by means of the container feed device 54. Preferably, in at least one process step 72 of the process 52, the removal and / or separation element is moved relative to the container storage unit by means of the tool conveyor element, wherein the removal and / or separation element is brought into contact with the container 14 for removal and / or separation of at least one container 14.Preferably, in the at least one method step 72, the removal and / or singling element is moved relative to one another and relative to the container storage unit by means of the tool conveyor element, and a further removal and / or singling element of the removal and / or singling unit is moved relative to one another and relative to the container storage unit by means of a further tool conveyor element, wherein the removal and / or singling element and the further removal and / or singling element are brought into contact with the container 14 for removal and / or singling of at least one container 14. Preferably, in the at least one method step 72, the tool conveyor element and / or the further tool conveyor element of the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit 20 is moved along the direction 26 running transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane 24.In particular, in at least one method step 74 of the method 52, a, in particular single, closure 12 is transferred to the container 14, in particular by means of the closure transfer unit.

[0053] Furthermore, the method 52 is preferably provided for at least partially connecting the closures 12 to the containers 14, in particular by means of the sealing device 56, in particular the pre-sealing device. Preferably, in at least one method step 76 of the method 52, at least one, in particular a single, container 14 is positioned relative to the sealing unit, in particular the pre-sealing unit, by means of the conveying element 22.Preferably, in at least one method step 78 of method 52, a position of the container 14 relative to the sealing unit, in particular to the pre-sealing unit, and / or relative to the conveying element 22 is detected by means of the sensor unit of the sealing device 56, in particular the pre-sealing device, wherein a movement of the conveying element 22 is controlled or regulated as a function of the detected position of the container 14 in order to position the container 14 in a sealing position, in particular pre-sealing position, relative to the sealing unit, in particular to the pre-sealing unit. Preferably, the detected data from the sensor unit of the sealing device 56 are evaluated and / or processed by means of the control or regulating unit 92. Preferably, in at least one method step 80 of method 52, the closure 12 arranged on the container 14 is connected to the container 14, at least in places, by means of the sealing unit, in particular the pre-sealing unit.It is conceivable that in the at least one method step 80, the conveying element 22 and / or the sealing elements of the sealing unit, in particular the pre-sealing unit, are / are moved transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane 24, in particular in order to bring the closure 12 arranged on the container 14 into contact with the sealing elements, in particular sealing tools, of the sealing unit, in particular the pre-sealing unit. Preferably, the container 14, with the closure 12 connected to it in places, is then transported by means of the conveying element 22 to the gassing device 58.

[0054] Furthermore, the method 52 is provided at least for gassing the container 14, in particular by means of the gassing device 58. Preferably, in at least one method step 82 of the method 52, the container 14 is moved relative to the gassing element as a function of a movement of the conveying element 22 along the direction 26 running transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane 24. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that in the at least one method step 82, the gassing element is moved along the direction 26 running transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane 24.Preferably, in the at least one method step 82, a change in a magnetic field of the linear or planar drive unit 20 acting on the conveying element 22 takes place, in particular by means of the control or regulating unit 92, wherein the conveying element 22 is moved transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane 24. Preferably, in the at least one method step 82, an edge region, in particular a lid tab, of the closure 12 arranged on the container 14, in particular fixedly connected to the container 14 at least in places, is brought into contact with the gassing element, in particular by a movement of the conveying element 22 along the conveying plane 24, wherein a relative movement then takes place between the conveying element 22 and the gassing element along the direction 26 running transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane 24.Preferably, as a result of the contact between the gassing element and the edge region of the closure 12 and the relative movement between the conveying element 22 and the gassing element along the direction 26 running transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane 24, the edge region of the closure 12 is raised. Preferably, in particular after the edge region of the closure 12 has been raised, the conveying element 22 is moved in the direction of the gassing element along the conveying plane 24, in particular in order to introduce the gassing element between the edge region of the closure 12 and the container 14 or to move it closer to the container 14. Preferably, a fluid, in particular a gas, is introduced into the space between the closure 12 and a product filled into the container 14 by means of the gassing element.Preferably, the container 14 with the closure 12 connected thereto in places is then transported by means of the conveyor element 22 to the sealing device 10, in particular to the final sealing device.

[0055] In addition, the method 52 is provided for at least one, preferably complete, connection of the closures 12 and the containers 14. Preferably, in at least one method step 84 of the method 52, the conveying element 22, together with the container 14 arranged thereon, is moved transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane 24, in particular in order to move the container 14 arranged on the conveying element 22 in the direction 26 of the sealing unit 16, in particular the final sealing unit.Preferably, in the at least one method step 84, the container 14 arranged on the conveying element 22 is transferred to the holding element 28, 30 as a result of the movement of the conveying element 22 along the direction 26 running transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane 24, or is moved into a receiving position in which the container 14 arranged on the conveying element 22 is received by the holding element 28, 30 as a result of a movement of the holding element 28, 30.Preferably, in at least one method step 86 of method 52, the container 14, in particular the underside 36 of the container rim 38 of the container 14, is supported at least during a connecting process of the closure 12 and the container 14 carried out by the sealing unit 16, in particular the end-sealing unit, by means of the at least one, in particular movable, holding element 28, 30 of the sealing unit 16, in particular the end-sealing unit, in particular after the container 14 has been transferred to the holding element 28, 30 or after the container 14 has been received by the holding element 28, 30. Preferably, following the connecting process of the closure 12 and the container 14 carried out by the sealing unit 16, in particular the end-sealing unit, the container 14 is transferred to the conveying element 22.However, it is alternatively or additionally conceivable that in the at least one method step 84, the sealing element 18 is moved transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane 24 in order to seal the closure 12, in particular completely, to the container 14, in particular in a configuration of the sealing unit 16, in particular the end sealing unit, free of the holding elements 28, 30. Preferably, following a, in particular complete, sealing of the closure 12 and the container 14, the container 14 with the fully connected closure 12 is transported by means of the conveying element 22 to the testing device 60.

[0056] Furthermore, the method 52 is preferably provided at least for a test, in particular a leak test, of the, in particular closed, container 14, in particular by means of the testing device 60. Preferably, in at least one method step 88 of the method 52, a position of the container 14 relative to the testing unit is detected by means of the, in particular additional, sensor unit of the testing device 60, wherein a movement of the conveyor element 22 is controlled or regulated as a function of the detected position of the container 14, preferably by the control or regulating unit 92, in order to position the container 14 in a test position relative to the testing unit.Preferably, in at least one method step 90 of method 52, the conveying element 22, together with the container 14 arranged thereon, is moved transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane 24, in particular actively moved in the direction 26 of the test element or passively moved in a direction 26 away from the test element. Preferably, in the at least one method step 90, a movement of the conveying element 22, in particular of the conveying element 22 together with the container 14 arranged on the conveying element 22, caused in particular by an action of the test element on the container 14 arranged on the conveying element 22, is detected and / or evaluated in order to conclude that the container 14, in particular the closed container, is leak-tight. Further method steps that appear appropriate to a person skilled in the art are also conceivable.

Claims

Claims 1. A sealing device for connecting closures (12), in particular lids, and containers (14), in particular cups, with at least one sealing unit (16) comprising at least one, in particular movably mounted, sealing element (18) which is provided for acting by means of vibrations, heat and / or force on a closure (12) to connect, in particular weld, the closure (12) to a container (14), and with at least one electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit (20) which has at least one conveying element (22), in particular a mover, on, in particular on which the container (14) can be arranged and which is movable transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to a conveying plane (24) of the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit (20), in particular in order to move the container (14) arranged on the conveying element (22) in the direction (26) of the sealing unit (16), characterized in thatthat the sealing unit (16) has at least one, in particular movable, holding element (28, 30), to which the container (14) arranged on the conveying element (22) can be transferred by means of a movement of the conveying element (22) transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane (24) of the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit (20) or can be brought into a receiving position in which the container (14) arranged on the conveying element (22) can be received by the holding element (28, 30), wherein the holding element (28, 30) is mounted pivotably about a movement axis of the holding element (28, 30) running at least substantially parallel to the conveying plane (24) or translationally along at least one movement axis of the holding element (28, 30) running at least substantially parallel to the conveying plane (24).

2. Sealing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the sealing unit (16) has at least the, in particular movable, holding element (28, 30) which comprises at least one sealing support surface (32, 34) on which the container (14), in particular an underside (36) of a container edge (38) of the container (14), can be supported at least during a connecting process of the closure (12) and the container (14), in particular after a transfer to the holding element (28, 30) or after a reception by the holding element (28, 30).

3. Sealing device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the conveying element (22) has a variably adjustable container holder (40), the holding dimension (42), in particular the holding height and / or holding width, of which is adjustable depending on at least one dimension of the container (14) arranged on the conveying element (22).

4. Sealing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit (20) has at least one holding tool conveyor element (44, 46) which is movable relative to the conveyor element (22) and on which at least the holding element (28, 30) of the sealing unit (16) is arranged.

5. Sealing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one sensor unit (48), arranged in particular in the vicinity of the sealing unit (16), for detecting a position of the container (14) arranged on, in particular on, the conveying element (22) relative to the sealing unit (16) and / or relative to the conveying element (22), wherein the conveying element (22) is movable depending on a detected position of the container (14), in particular in order to position the container (14) relative to the sealing element (18) and / or to the holding element (28, 30) of the sealing unit (16).

6. Production machine with at least one sealing device according to one of the preceding claims.

7. A method for connecting closures (12), in particular lids, and containers (14), in particular cups, by means of a sealing device according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein in at least one method step (84) the conveying element (22), in particular the mover, together with the container (14) arranged thereon is moved transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the conveying plane (24) of the electrodynamic linear or planar drive unit (20), in particular in order to move the container (14) arranged on the conveying element (22) in the direction (26) of the sealing unit (16), characterized in that in at least one method step (84) the container (14) arranged on the conveying element (22) is attached to at least one holding element (28,30) or is moved into a receiving position in which the container (14) arranged on the conveyor element (22) is received by the holding element (28, 30) as a result of a movement of the holding element (28, 30).

8. Method according to claim?, characterized in that in at least one method step (86) the container (14), in particular an underside (36) of a container edge (38) of the container (14), at least during a connection process of the closure (12) and the container (14) is supported by means of the at least one, in particular movable, holding element (28, 30) of the sealing unit (16), in particular after a transfer of the container (14) to the holding element (28, 30) or after a reception of the container (14) by the holding element (28, 30).

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