CONTAINER FEEDING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR FEEDING CONTAINERS TO A DOSING DEVICE AND / OR A FILLING DEVICE - Patent application

Abstract

The present invention is based on a container supplying device, in particular a cup supplying device, for supplying containers (12), in particular cups, to a dosing device and / or filling device (14), which comprises at least one magazine unit (16) for accommodating a plurality of containers (12), in particular a plurality of container stacks, and at least one lifting unit (18) for transporting the containers (12), in particular the container stack, along a lifting direction (20) of the lifting unit (18), in particular to a plane that is located higher than a conveying surface (22) of a conveying member (24) of the magazine unit (16). It is proposed that the container supply device includes at least one moving unit (26), which supports the lifting unit (18) such that the lifting unit (18) is movable, in particular drivably movable, relative to the magazine unit (16), in particular relative to a frame (28) of the magazine unit (16), along a movement axis (30) of the lifting unit (18) extending transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicular, to the lifting direction (20).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a container supplying device, in particular a cup supplying device, for supplying containers, in particular cups, to a metering device and / or a filling device, comprising at least one magazine unit for accommodating a plurality of containers, in particular a plurality of container stacks, and at least one lifting unit for transporting the containers, in particular the container stack, along a lifting direction of the lifting unit, in particular to a plane located higher than the transport surface of a transport member of the magazine unit. [Background technology]

[0002] Such container supplying devices are known, in which the containers, in particular the container stack, are not substantially guided at least in the conveying direction during the transport from the magazine unit to the lifting unit. For this reason, the containers, in particular the container stack, may tilt or tip over during the transfer of the containers, in particular the container stack, from the magazine unit to the lifting unit. This may lead to a jamming of the containers, in particular the container stack, in the lifting unit and thus to an undesirable machine stoppage that must be dealt with by an operator. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] It is an object of the present invention to provide a universal container supplying device, a universal manufacturing machine and a universal method, which have improved properties, in particular with regard to process reliability. This object is achieved according to the present invention by the features set out in claim 1, claim 6 or claim 7, whilst advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention can be taken from the dependent claims. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] The invention is based on a container supplying device, in particular a cup supplying device, for supplying containers, in particular cups, to a metering device and / or a filling device, which comprises at least one magazine unit for accommodating a plurality of containers, in particular a plurality of container stacks, and at least one lifting unit for transporting the containers, in particular the container stack, along a lifting direction of the lifting unit, in particular to a plane that is located higher than the transport surface of the transport member of the magazine unit.

[0005] It is proposed that the container supplying device comprises at least one movement unit, which supports the lifting unit such that the lifting unit is movable, in particular drivably, relative to the magazine unit, in particular a frame of the magazine unit, along a movement axis of the lifting unit that extends transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the lifting direction. This embodiment according to the invention advantageously makes it possible to achieve a high level of process reliability. Advantageously, guiding of the containers, in particular the container stack, is possible during the transfer of the containers, in particular the container stack, from the magazine unit to the lifting unit. Advantageously, tipping or tipping of the containers, in particular the container stack, can be prevented. Advantageously, the containers, in particular the container stack, can be held at least substantially tip-resistant during the transfer of the containers, in particular the container stack, from the magazine unit to the lifting unit. Advantageously, undesirable machine stoppages due to jamming of the containers, in particular the container stack, can be prevented in a structurally simple manner. Advantageously, movement of the lifting unit towards the magazine unit and movement of the lifting unit away from the magazine unit can be realised, thereby enabling a reliable and guided transfer of containers, in particular container stacks, from the magazine unit to the lifting unit.

[0006] The magazine unit preferably comprises a plurality of feed tracks, which are separated from one another by lateral guide elements of the magazine unit, in particular for accommodating a plurality of containers, in particular for accommodating a plurality of container stacks. Preferably, the magazine unit comprises at least two feed tracks for accommodating a plurality of containers, in particular for accommodating a plurality of container stacks. Particularly preferably, the magazine unit comprises an integer multiple of two feed tracks for accommodating a plurality of containers, in particular for accommodating a plurality of container stacks, such as, for example, four feed tracks, six feed tracks, eight feed tracks, ten feed tracks or twelve feed tracks. However, it is also conceivable that the magazine unit comprises an odd number of feed tracks, such as, for example, three feed tracks, five feed tracks, seven feed tracks, nine feed tracks or eleven feed tracks. Preferably, the number of feed tracks depends on the specific application or field of use of the container supplying device. Preferably, for each feed track, a plurality of containers, in particular a plurality of container stacks, can be arranged in each feed track, in particular in a line one behind the other. The containers, in particular the container stack, when arranged in at least one supply track, preferably form a row of containers, in particular a row of container stacks, in the supply track along a transport direction of the magazine unit, in particular of a transport member of the magazine unit.

[0007] The feed tracks of the magazine units are preferably oriented at least substantially parallel to one another. In this case, "substantially parallel" in particular means an orientation in one direction, in particular in one plane, relative to a reference direction, in which this direction has a deviation from the reference direction of in particular less than 8°, preferably less than 5°, particularly preferably less than 2°. The feed tracks are preferably arranged in a frame of the magazine units. In the ready-for-operation state of the container supply device, the feed tracks are preferably arranged at an incline relative to a horizontal plane and / or relative to a base surface of a frame unit of a production machine including the container supply device. The base surface is configured to support the gravity and / or the operating forces of the production machine on the ground, for example on the floor of a production facility.

[0008] The magazine unit preferably comprises at least one conveying member, in particular at least one circulatingly drivable conveying belt, for conveying the containers, in particular the container stack, along the conveying direction. The conveying member is preferably configured for conveying the containers, in particular the container stack, in the feed track along the conveying direction, in particular in the lifting unit. "Configured" in particular means specially implemented, specially designed and / or specially equipped. An object configured for a certain function means in particular that this object performs and / or executes this certain function in at least one use and / or operating state. The conveying member preferably has a conveying surface on which the containers, in particular the container stack, are arranged in the state when they are arranged in the magazine unit, in particular a conveying surface on which the containers, in particular the container stack, stand upright. In the ready-for-operation state of the container feeder, the conveying surface is preferably arranged inclined relative to a horizontal plane and / or relative to a base surface of a frame unit of the production machine. The conveying surface preferably has an angle of less than 45°, preferably less than 35°, particularly preferably less than 25°, relative to the horizontal plane and / or to a plane extending at least substantially parallel to the base surface of the frame unit of the production machine. Very particularly preferably, the conveying surface has an angle of less than 45°, preferably less than 35°, particularly preferably less than 25°, relative to the horizontal plane and / or to a plane extending at least substantially parallel to the base surface of the frame unit of the production machine, with a value in the range of values ​​between 0° and 20°. The magazine unit preferably comprises a plurality of conveying members, in particular a plurality of circulatingly drivable conveyor belts, for conveying the containers, in particular the container stacks, arranged in the magazine unit along the conveying direction. Preferably, at least one conveying member of the plurality of conveying members is assigned to each feed track, in particular one individual conveying member is assigned to each feed track. The conveying members preferably all have the same embodiment. The description of one conveying member preferably applies to all conveying members. Preferably, the conveying members of the magazine unit, in particular all conveying members, are realized as circulatingly drivable conveyor belts.However, for transporting the containers, in particular the container stacks, along the transport direction, the transport elements can also have various embodiments that are considered appropriate by a person skilled in the art, such as, for example, slides, hydrodynamic transport elements, electrodynamic transport elements, etc. The transport elements are preferably configured to feed the containers, in particular the container stacks, arranged in the feed tracks to a lifting unit. The containers, in particular the container stacks, arranged in the feed tracks can be transported in the feed tracks along the transport direction, in particular as far as the lifting unit, by means of a transport element preferably assigned to each feed track.

[0009] The lifting unit preferably comprises at least one lifting member, in particular a lifting finger, for conveying the container, in particular the container stack, along the lifting direction. The lifting member is preferably supported so as to be movable along the lifting direction, in particular so as to be drivably movable along the lifting direction. The lifting member is preferably movable along the lifting direction, back and forth with respect to the lifting direction. After conveying the container, in particular the container stack, along the lifting direction, the lifting member is preferably movable with respect to the lifting direction to an initial position of the lifting member, in which initial position the container, in particular the container stack, can be conveyed onto the lifting member by a conveying member. The lifting unit preferably comprises several lifting members. The lifting members of a lifting unit preferably have the same embodiment. The description of one lifting member preferably applies to all lifting members. The lifting members are preferably assigned to a lifting track of the lifting unit. The lifting unit preferably comprises a plurality of lifting tracks, whereby at least one of the lifting members of the lifting unit is assigned to each lifting track. Preferably, each feed track is assigned to a lifting track of the lifting unit. The number of lifting tracks of the lifting unit preferably corresponds to the number of feed tracks of the magazine unit. The movement path of the lifting members in the lifting track preferably defines a lifting plane of the lifting unit. The lifting direction preferably extends at least substantially parallel to the lifting plane of the lifting unit. The lifting plane of the lifting unit preferably extends at least substantially perpendicular to the conveying surface of the conveying member.

[0010] The movement unit can be configured to support the lifting unit so that it can be moved translationally and / or pivotally relative to the magazine unit. The lifting unit is supported movably by the movement unit relative to the magazine unit, such that the entire lifting unit is translationally movable along the movement axis of the lifting unit relative to the magazine unit, the lifting unit can be pivoted about the movement axis of the lifting unit relative to the magazine unit, the lifting unit can first be pivoted about the movement axis of the lifting unit relative to the magazine unit and then translated along the movement axis of the lifting unit relative to the magazine unit or vice versa, or the lifting unit can be moved along and / or about the movement axis of the lifting unit relative to the magazine unit in another manner deemed appropriate by the skilled person. The movement unit preferably comprises at least one guide member, in particular at least one linear guide member, for guiding the movement of the lifting unit relative to the magazine unit along and / or about the movement axis of the lifting unit. The guide elements can be realized as plain bearings, as roller bearings or as hydrodynamic bearings, etc. In at least one embodiment of the container supplying device, the guide elements are preferably realized as linear guide carriages. However, it is also conceivable that the guide elements have other embodiments deemed appropriate by the skilled person, in particular suitable embodiments adapted to the type of movement to be guided. The movement unit preferably comprises four guide elements for guiding the movement of the lifting unit relative to the magazine unit along and / or about the movement axis of the lifting unit. Preferably, two guide elements each are arranged on each of the two outer sides of the lifting unit. The guide elements preferably have the same embodiment, in particular with the exception of the side-inverted embodiment. The description of one guide element preferably applies to all guide elements.

[0011] Preferably, the movement axis of the lifting unit extends at least substantially perpendicular to the lifting direction of the lifting unit. The expression "substantially perpendicular" here defines in particular an orientation in a direction relative to a reference direction, in which case this direction and the reference direction, in particular when viewed in the projection plane, include an angle of 90°, in particular a maximum deviation of less than 8°, preferably less than 5°, particularly preferably less than 2°. The movement axis of the lifting unit is preferably realized as a linear movement axis along which the lifting unit is supported for translational movement relative to the magazine unit. However, it is also conceivable, alternatively or additionally, that the movement axis is realized as a pivotal movement axis, in which case the lifting unit is supported for pivotal movement relative to the magazine unit about the pivotal movement axis. The movement axis preferably extends at least substantially parallel to the conveying surface of the conveying member. Preferably, the movement axis extends at least substantially perpendicular to the lifting plane of the lifting unit.

[0012] It is further proposed that the movement axis of the lifting unit (along which the lifting unit is supported so as to be movable, in particular drivably movable, relative to the magazine unit) is oriented with an inclination relative to a horizontal plane, in particular the above-mentioned horizontal plane, and in particular has an angle with respect to the horizontal plane having a value in the range of values ​​between 0° and 90°. The movement axis of the lifting unit preferably has an angle with respect to the horizontal plane and / or to a plane extending at least substantially parallel to the base surface of the frame unit of the manufacturing machine, in particular less than 45°, preferably less than 35°, particularly preferably less than 25°. Very particularly preferably, the movement axis of the lifting unit has an angle with respect to the horizontal plane and / or to a plane extending at least substantially parallel to the base surface of the frame unit of the manufacturing machine, having a value in the range of values ​​between 0° and 20°. Advantageously, due to the inclined arrangement of the magazine unit together with the lifting unit, the distance of the conveying surface of the conveying member to the base surface of the frame unit of the production machine on the side of the conveying member facing away from the lifting unit is greater than the distance of the conveying surface of the conveying member to the base surface of the frame unit of the production machine on the side of the conveying member facing the lifting unit. This embodiment according to the invention allows for the use of gravity in a structurally simple manner to support the movement of the lifting unit in at least one direction along the movement axis. Advantageously, it is possible to prevent the containers, in particular the container stack, from tipping towards the operator during loading into the magazine unit, in particular into the feed track. Advantageously, a high level of process reliability can be achieved. Advantageously, it is possible to guide the containers, in particular the container stack, during the transfer of the containers, in particular the container stack, from the magazine unit to the lifting unit. Advantageously, the containers, in particular the container stack, can be held at least substantially tip-resistant during the transfer of the containers, in particular the container stack, from the magazine unit to the lifting unit. Advantageously, undesirable machine stoppages due to jamming of containers, in particular of container stacks, can be prevented in a structurally simple manner.

[0013] It is further proposed that the displacement unit comprises at least one drive, in particular at least one servo cylinder, by means of which the lifting unit can be actively displaced along the movement axis of the lifting unit relative to the magazine unit. The drive is preferably realised as a linear drive, in particular as a servo cylinder. However, it is also conceivable that the drive has other embodiments deemed suitable by the skilled person, for example as a rack-and-pinion drive, a hydraulic cylinder or a pneumatic cylinder. Preferably, the drive has a drive axis that runs at least substantially parallel to the movement axis of the lifting unit. At one end, the drive is preferably arranged on the frame of the magazine unit, in particular fixed thereto, and at the other end, the drive is arranged on the lifting unit, in particular fixed thereto. The displacement unit preferably comprises at least two drives for actively displacing the lifting unit relative to the magazine unit. The drives preferably have the same embodiment, in particular as a servo cylinder. Preferably, one drive is arranged on each of the two outer sides of the lifting unit. However, it is also conceivable that the movement unit comprises only a single drive for actively moving the lifting unit relative to the magazine unit. The container supply device and / or the production machine preferably comprises at least one control or regulation unit, which is configured to control or regulate a drive of the movement unit for the movement of the lifting unit. By "control or regulation unit" is meant in particular a unit with at least one control electronics unit. By "control electronics unit" is meant in particular a unit with a processor unit, a memory unit and an operating program stored in the memory unit. The container supply device and / or the production machine comprises at least one sensor unit, the signals of which can be processed by the control or regulation unit in order to control or regulate at least the movement of the lifting unit.The control or regulating unit is preferably configured in a manner known to a person skilled in the art to control or regulate further functions of the container supply device and / or the production machine, such as the drive of the transport members of the magazine unit, the movement of the stop members of the magazine unit, in particular the separation flaps, etc. With this embodiment according to the invention, a high degree of automation can be advantageously achieved. A precise control or regulation of the movement of the lifting unit can be realized. A high level of process reliability can be advantageously achieved. A reliable transfer of containers, in particular a container stack, from the magazine unit to the lifting unit can be advantageously achieved.

[0014] It is further proposed that the lifting unit has at least one movably supported lateral guide member, which is configured to at least partially surround or cover the container, in particular the container stack, in a state in which the container, in particular the container stack, is placed on the lifting unit. The lateral guide member is preferably realized as a lateral guide plate. However, it is also conceivable that the lateral guide member has other embodiments that are considered suitable by the person skilled in the art, such as, for example, an embodiment as a lateral guide grid or a lateral guide web, etc. When viewed along a direction that extends at least substantially parallel to the lifting plane and at least substantially parallel to a plane containing the movement axis of the lifting unit, the lateral guide member preferably extends at least to the majority over the maximum extension length of the lifting track. The lateral guide member preferably extends along the lifting track to at least more than 50% of the maximum extension length of the lifting track. It is conceivable that the lateral guide element consists of several individual segments arranged along the lifting track and spaced apart from one another, in which case the sum of the individual maximum extension lengths of these individual segments corresponds to at least more than 50% of the maximum extension length of the lifting track. It is also conceivable that the lateral guide element is one continuous element arranged along the lifting track, the maximum extension length of which corresponds to at least more than 50% of the maximum extension length of the lifting track. Other embodiments of the lateral guide element are also conceivable, as deemed appropriate by the person skilled in the art. In the state in which the container, in particular the container stack, is arranged on the lifting unit, the lateral guide element preferably projects beyond the container, in particular the container stack, along a direction that extends at least substantially perpendicularly to the lifting plane. The lateral guide element may be supported so as to be translationally and / or pivotally movable. The lateral guide element may be supported so as to be actively movable, in particular by a motor of the lifting unit, or so as to be manually movable, in order to change or adjust the position of the lateral guide element, in particular relative to the container, in particular relative to the container stack.The lifting unit preferably comprises two lateral guide elements per lifting track, in particular one left lateral guide element and one right lateral guide element per lifting track. This embodiment according to the invention advantageously makes it possible to achieve guiding of the container, in particular of the container stack, during transport by the lifting unit. Advantageously, a secure accommodation of the container, in particular of the container stack, in the lifting unit can be achieved. Advantageously, a high level of process reliability can be achieved.

[0015] It is also proposed that the lifting unit comprises at least one, in particular the above-mentioned, movably supported lateral guide member, the axis of movement of which extends transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the axis of movement of the lifting unit. Preferably, the axis of movement of the lateral guide member extends at least substantially parallel to the conveying plane of the conveying member. The axis of movement of the lateral guide member extends in particular at least substantially parallel to the lifting plane of the lifting unit. Preferably, the axis of movement of the lateral guide member extends at least substantially perpendicularly to the axis of movement of the lifting unit. Preferably, the two lateral guide members are supported movably in opposite directions to each other along the axis of movement of the lateral guide members, in particular for changing or adjusting the position of the lateral guide members relative to the cups, in particular relative to the cup stack. This embodiment according to the invention advantageously makes it possible to realize a partial clamping of the containers, in particular a container stack, in a state in which the containers, in particular a container stack, are arranged in the lifting unit, in particular in the lifting track. Advantageously, guidance of the container, in particular the container stack, during transport by the lifting unit can be achieved. Advantageously, a secure accommodation of the container, in particular the container stack, in the lifting unit can be achieved. Advantageously, a high level of process reliability can be achieved.

[0016] Furthermore, a manufacturing machine is proposed, which comprises at least one container supplying device according to the invention. The manufacturing machine may comprise further devices and / or units that are considered appropriate by the person skilled in the art and that can be used for the processing, filling and / or production of products, in particular food products. The manufacturing machine is preferably configured for the production, filling, packaging and / or secondary packaging of food products. In addition to the container supplying device, the manufacturing machine may comprise a number of further devices and / or units that are considered appropriate by the person skilled in the art, such as forming devices, cutting devices, filling devices, sterilizing devices, closing devices, secondary packaging devices or metering devices for packaging. Preferably, the manufacturing machine comprises at least one frame unit, in particular the above-mentioned frame unit, and at least one support unit, in particular a linear drawer unit, where the support unit is configured to movably support the entire container supplying device relative to the frame unit. The magazine unit, the lifting unit and the moving unit are preferably supported by the support unit in such a way that they can be moved together, in particular for maintenance purposes, etc. The support unit may include a motor capable of driving the container supplying device, whereby the entire container supplying device is movable relative to the frame unit or the entire container supplying device is manually movable relative to the frame unit. The movement axis of the support unit, along which the entire container supplying device is supported so as to be movable relative to the frame unit, preferably extends at least substantially parallel to a horizontal plane and / or a base surface of the frame unit. This embodiment according to the invention advantageously makes it possible to achieve a high level of process reliability during the production, filling, packaging and / or secondary packaging of a product, in particular a food product, by the production apparatus.

[0017] Furthermore, the invention is based on a method for supplying containers, in particular cups, in particular to a metering device and / or a filling device of a production machine by means of a container supplying device, in particular by means of a container supplying device according to the invention. It is proposed that a lifting unit of the container supplying device is moved by a movement unit relative to a magazine unit of the container supplying device along a movement axis of the lifting unit which runs transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the lifting direction of the lifting unit. This embodiment according to the invention advantageously makes it possible to achieve a high level of process reliability. Advantageously, guiding of the containers, in particular the container stack, is possible during the transfer of the containers, in particular the container stack, from the magazine unit to the lifting unit. Advantageously, tipping or tipping of the containers, in particular the container stack, can be prevented. Advantageously, the containers, in particular the container stack, can be held in an at least substantially tip-resistant manner during the transfer of the containers, in particular the container stack, from the magazine unit to the lifting unit. Advantageously, undesired machine stoppages due to jamming of the containers, in particular the container stack, can be prevented in a structurally simple manner. Advantageously, movement of the lifting unit towards the magazine unit and movement of the lifting unit away from the magazine unit can be realised, thereby enabling a reliable and guided transport of containers, in particular container stacks, from the magazine unit to the lifting unit.

[0018] In addition, it is proposed that the lifting unit is actively moved by at least one drive of the transfer unit, in particular the drive described above, to a proximity area of ​​a movably supported stop member of the magazine unit, in particular the above-mentioned movably supported stop member, in particular the movably supported separation flap, and / or to a proximity area of ​​a transport member of the magazine unit, in particular the above-mentioned transport member. By "proximity area" it is meant in particular an area having a maximum distance, in particular less than 100 mm, preferably less than 50 mm, preferably less than 20 mm, very particularly preferably less than 10 mm, in particular seen along the transport direction of the magazine unit, to the transport member, in particular to the bent edge of the transport member and / or to the stop member. This embodiment according to the invention advantageously makes it possible to achieve a reliable transfer of the containers, in particular the container stack, from the magazine unit to the lifting unit. Advantageously, the containers, in particular the container stack, can be held at least substantially tip-resistant during the transfer of the containers, in particular the container stack, from the magazine unit to the lifting unit.

[0019] It is further proposed that at least one, in particular the above-mentioned, lateral guide member of the lifting unit, which is configured to at least partially surround or cover the container, in particular the container stack, in a state in which the container, in particular the container stack, is placed on the lifting unit, is actively moved. The lateral guide member and the further lateral guide member are preferably actively moved. Preferably, in order to transport the container, in particular the container stack, all left lateral guide members and all right lateral guide members are actively, in particular actively jointly, moved by the lifting unit, in which all left lateral guide members are moved in one direction and all right lateral guide members are moved in the opposite direction. This embodiment according to the invention makes it possible to realize in a structurally simple manner the adjustment of the distance of the lateral guide member relative to the further lateral guide member in order to adapt the lifting unit to the container type, in particular the cup type.

[0020] It is further proposed that at least one, in particular the above-mentioned left lateral guide member of the lifting unit and another, in particular the above-mentioned right lateral guide member of the lifting unit are actively moved in opposite directions to each other. Advantageously, for transporting a container, in particular a container stack, the lateral guide member and the further lateral guide member are moved together with the lifting unit towards each other and then moved away from each other again. This embodiment according to the invention advantageously makes it possible to achieve a reliable guiding of the container, in particular a container stack, during transport by the lifting unit. The adjustment of the distance of the lateral guide member relative to the further lateral guide member for adapting the lifting unit to the container type, in particular the cup type, can be realized in a structurally simple manner.

[0021] The container supplying device according to the invention, the manufacturing machine according to the invention and / or the method according to the invention are not limited to the applications and embodiments described above. In particular, in order to perform the functions described herein, the container supplying device according to the invention, the manufacturing machine according to the invention and / or the method according to the invention may include a different number of individual parts, components and units and method steps than those described herein. Furthermore, within the ranges of values ​​given in this disclosure, values ​​within the above-mentioned ranges are also considered to be disclosed and usable as desired.

[0022] Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the drawings, in which one exemplary embodiment of the invention is shown. The drawings, the description and the claims include combinations of several features. Those skilled in the art will also consider these features individually and will find other suitable combinations. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0023] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a production machine according to the invention, comprising at least one container supply device according to the invention; [Diagram 2] 2 is a detailed view of a container supply device according to the invention in an operative position on a frame unit of a production machine according to the invention, shown diagrammatically; FIG. [Diagram 3] 2 is a detailed view of a container supply device according to the invention in a maintenance position on a frame unit of a production machine according to the invention, shown diagrammatically; FIG. [Figure 4] 1 is a plan view showing a schematic diagram of a container supplying device according to the present invention; [Diagram 5] 2 is a detailed view of the magazine unit and the lifting unit of the container supplying device according to the invention, the lifting unit being shown diagrammatically when moved away from the magazine unit; FIG. [Figure 6] 4 is a detailed view of the magazine unit and the lifting unit of the container supplying device according to the invention, the lifting unit being shown generally as it moves towards the magazine unit; FIG. [Figure 7] 4 shows a schematic detailed view of a lifting unit of the container supplying device according to the invention; FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 shows a schematic process flow of the method according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0024] In FIG. 1, a production machine 44 is shown with at least one container supply device 10 for supplying containers 12 (see FIGS. 4 to 7), in particular cups, to a metering device and / or filling device 14 of the production machine 44. Preferably, in order to supply containers 12 which can be filled with a product, in particular a food product, the container supply device 10 is connected to the metering device and / or filling device 14 via a conveying device (not shown in detail here) of the production machine 44 in a manner known to the person skilled in the art. The production machine 44 is preferably configured for the production, filling, packaging and / or secondary packaging of a food product. Preferably, the production machine 44 is configured at least for filling a food product in the containers 12. The production machine 44 can be realized, for example, as a food packaging machine, as a food filling machine, as a food production machine or as a combination of the above-mentioned machines, etc. The production machine 44 may include further devices and / or units, which are considered appropriate by the person skilled in the art and which are used for the production and / or processing of a product, in particular a food product, such as, for example, further conveying devices, sterilization devices, closing devices, secondary packaging devices, etc.

[0025] In Fig. 2 the container supply device 10 is shown in an operating position on a frame unit 52 of the production machine 44. The container supply device 10 is configured to supply containers 12, in particular cups, to a metering device and / or filling device 14, in particular via a transport device of the production machine 44. The container supply device 10 is preferably realized as a cup supply device. The container supply device 10 comprises at least one magazine unit 16 for accommodating a plurality of containers 12 (see also Fig. 4), in particular a plurality of container stacks (see also Fig. 4). The container supply device 10 further comprises at least one lifting unit 18 for transporting the containers 12, in particular the container stack, along a lifting direction 20 of the lifting unit 18, in particular to a plane that is located higher than the transport surface 22 of the transport member 24 of the magazine unit 16.

[0026] In the working position, the lifting unit 18 is configured to interact with a receptacle pick-up unit 70 of the production machine 44. The receptacle pick-up unit 70 is preferably arranged above the lifting unit 18. The receptacle pick-up unit 70 preferably comprises a receptacle-receiving basket 72 into which the lifting unit 18 transports the receptacles 12, in particular a receptacle stack, along the lifting direction 20. The receptacle-receiving basket 72 is arranged in a receiving frame 74 of the receptacle pick-up unit 70, in particular so that it is removable without tools. The receptacle-receiving basket 72 is preferably replaceable, preferably without tools, depending on the receptacle type of the receptacle 12, in particular the receptacle stack, to be received. The receptacle-receiving basket 72 preferably has a connection recess (not shown in detail here), in particular in the form of a keyhole. The connection recess comprises an area with a small width and an immediately adjacent area with a large width. The receiving frame 74 preferably comprises a hook-in bolt (not shown in detail here) which is configured to interact with the connection recess. The storage frame 74 is supported on the frame unit 52 so as to be pivotally movable. The pivot axis of the storage frame 74 preferably extends at least substantially parallel to the horizontal plane 32 and / or at least substantially parallel to the base surface 62 of the frame unit 52. The pivot axis of the storage frame 74 preferably extends at least substantially perpendicular to the lifting direction 20 of the lifting unit 18, in particular at least substantially parallel to the lifting plane of the lifting unit 18. The linear movement axis of the storage frame 74 preferably extends at least substantially parallel to the horizontal plane 32 and / or at least substantially parallel to the base surface 62 of the frame unit 52. The linear movement axis of the storage frame 74 preferably extends transversely to the lifting direction 20 of the lifting unit 18, in particular transversely to the lifting plane of the lifting unit 18.

[0027] The storage frame 74 is preferably supported so as to be translationally movable along a linear axis 76 of the container pick-up unit 70. The container pick-up unit 70 further comprises a closing member 78 configured for closing the container-receiving basket 72 on its side facing the lifting unit 18 after the containers 12, in particular the container stack, have been filled. The closing member 78 is preferably supported so as to be drivably movable, in particular. The closing member 78 is preferably realized in the form of a fork, in particular in order to be able to pass through a lifting member 82 of the lifting unit 18. The container-receiving basket 72 preferably comprises a plurality of separate storage spaces (not shown in detail here) for receiving the containers 12, in particular the container stack, where the number of storage spaces corresponds to the number of lifting tracks 80 of the lifting unit 18 and / or the number of supply tracks 58 of the magazine unit 16.

[0028] The magazine unit 16 preferably includes a plurality of feed tracks 58, which are separated from one another by lateral guide members 54, 56 of the magazine unit 16, in particular for accommodating a plurality of containers 12, in particular for accommodating a plurality of container stacks (see also FIG. 4). The magazine unit 16 preferably includes at least two feed tracks 58 for accommodating a plurality of containers 12, in particular for accommodating a plurality of container stacks (see also FIG. 4). The feed tracks 58 of the magazine unit 16 are preferably oriented at least substantially parallel to one another. The feed tracks 58 are preferably arranged in the frame 28 of the magazine unit 16. In the ready-to-operate state of the container supplying device 10, the feed tracks 58 are preferably arranged at an incline with respect to the horizontal plane 32 and / or with respect to a base surface 62 of the frame unit 52 of the production machine 44. The base surface 62 is configured to support the gravity and / or the operating forces of the production machine 44 on the ground (not shown in detail here), for example on the floor of a production facility. Preferably, for each feed track 58, a number of containers 12, in particular a number of container stacks, can be arranged in each feed track 58, in particular one after the other in a row (see also FIG. 4). In the state in which the containers 12, in particular the container stacks, are arranged in the at least one feed track 58, preferably in the feed track 58, form a row of containers 12, in particular container stacks, along a conveying direction 60 of the magazine unit 16, in particular of the conveying member 24 of the magazine unit 16 (see also FIG. 4). The magazine unit 16 preferably comprises, in particular for each feed track 58, at least one movably supported stopper element 50 (see FIGS. 5 and 6), in particular a movably supported separation flap. The stopper element 50 is preferably configured to separate the containers 12, in particular the container stacks, aligned in the feed track 58 and / or to hold the aligned containers 12, in particular the container stacks, during a lifting movement by the lifting unit 18.

[0029] The magazine unit 16 preferably comprises at least a conveying member 24 for conveying the containers 12, in particular a container stack, along a conveying direction 60 of the magazine unit 16. The conveying member 24 is preferably realised as a circulating drivable conveyor belt. However, it is also conceivable that the conveying member 24 has other embodiments that are deemed suitable by the skilled person, such as, for example, an embodiment as a circulating conveyor chain, an embodiment as a conveying slide, etc. The conveying member 24 is preferably configured to convey the containers 12, in particular a container stack, in the feed track 58 along the conveying direction 60, in particular in the lifting unit 18. The conveying member 24 preferably has a conveying surface 22 on which the container 12, in particular a container stack, or a plurality of containers 12, in particular a plurality of container stacks, is arranged when arranged in the magazine unit 16, in particular on which the container, in particular the container stack, stands upright. In the ready-for-operation state of the container supply device 10, the conveying surface 22 is preferably arranged inclined relative to the horizontal plane 32 and / or relative to a base surface 62 of the frame unit 52 of the production machine 44. The magazine unit 16 preferably comprises a plurality of conveying members 24, in particular a plurality of circulatingly drivable conveyor belts, for conveying the containers 12, in particular the container stacks, arranged in the magazine unit 16, along a conveying direction 60 (see also FIG. 4). Preferably, at least one conveying member 24 of the plurality of conveying members 24 is assigned to each feed track 58, in particular one individual conveying member 24 is assigned to each feed track 58. The conveying members 24 preferably all have the same embodiment. The description of one conveying member 24 preferably applies to all conveying members 24. The conveying members 24 are preferably configured to supply the containers 12, in particular the container stacks arranged in the feed tracks 58, to the lifting unit 18 (see also FIG. 4). The containers 12, in particular the container stacks arranged in the feed tracks 58, can be conveyed in the feed tracks 58 along the conveying direction 60, in particular into the lifting unit 18, by the conveying member 24, preferably assigned to each feed track 58.

[0030] In FIG. 3 the container supply device 10 is shown in a maintenance position on a frame unit 52 of a production machine 44. The production machine 44 preferably comprises at least one support unit 64, in particular a linear pull-out unit. The support unit 64 is preferably configured to support the entire container supply device 10 movably relative to the frame unit 52. The magazine unit 16, the lifting unit 18 and the moving unit 26 of the container supply device 10 are preferably supported by the support unit 64 so that they can move together, in particular for maintenance purposes etc. The support unit 64 may comprise a motor 66 with which the entire container supply device 10 can be moved in a drivable manner relative to the frame unit 52. The motor 66 is preferably configured to cooperate with a toothed rack (not shown in detail here) of the support unit 64, so that the entire container supply device 10 can be moved relative to the frame unit 52. The toothed rack is preferably arranged in a linear guide of the support unit 64. The motor 66 can be realized as an electric motor, a linear motor, a compressed air motor, a hydraulic motor or another motor as deemed appropriate by the skilled person. It is further conceivable that the motor 66 cooperates with another member of the support unit 64 as deemed appropriate by the skilled person in order to move the entire container supplying device 10 relative to the frame unit 52. Alternatively or additionally, it is also conceivable that the entire container supplying device 10 is manually movable relative to the frame unit 52 by an operator. It is conceivable that the support unit 64 is realized without the motor 66 and the toothed rack, especially when the entire container supplying device 10 is manually movable relative to the frame unit 52. The movement axis 68 of the support unit 64 (along which the entire container supplying device 10 is supported so as to be movable relative to the frame unit 52) ​​preferably extends at least substantially parallel to the horizontal plane 32 and / or the base surface 62 of the frame unit 52.

[0031] The container supplying device 10 comprises at least one moving unit 26, which supports the lifting unit 18 such that the lifting unit 18 is movable, in particular drivably movable, relative to the magazine unit 16, in particular relative to a frame 28 of the magazine unit 16, along a movement axis 30 of the lifting unit 18 extending transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the lifting direction 20. The lifting unit 18 preferably comprises at least a lifting member 82, in particular a lifting finger, for conveying the containers 12, in particular a container stack, along the lifting direction 20 (see also FIG. 4). The lifting member 82 is preferably supported so as to be movable along the lifting direction 20, in particular so as to be drivably movable along the lifting direction 20. The lifting member 82 is preferably movable along the lifting direction 20 and back and forth with respect to the lifting direction 20. Preferably, after conveying the containers 12, in particular the individual container stacks, along the lifting direction 20, the lifting members 82 can be moved with respect to the lifting direction 20 to an initial position of the lifting members 82, in which the containers 12, in particular the individual container stacks, can be conveyed onto the lifting members 82 by the conveying members 24. The lifting units 18 preferably comprise a plurality of lifting members 82. The lifting members 82 of a lifting unit 18 preferably have the same embodiment. The description of one lifting member 82 preferably applies to all lifting members 82. The lifting members 82 are preferably assigned to individual lifting tracks 80 of the lifting unit 18. The lifting units 18 preferably comprise a plurality of lifting tracks 80, in which case at least one of the lifting members 82 of the lifting units 18 is assigned to each lifting track 80. Preferably, a lifting track 80 of a lifting unit 18 is assigned to each supply track 58. The number of lift tracks 80 of the lift unit 18 preferably corresponds to the number of feed tracks 58 of the magazine unit 16 .

[0032] The moving unit 26 can be configured for supporting the lifting unit 18 translationally and / or pivotally moveably relative to the magazine unit 16. The moving unit 26 preferably comprises at least one guide member 84, in particular at least one linear guide member, for guiding the movement of the lifting unit 18 relative to the magazine unit 16 along and / or about the movement axis 30 of the lifting unit 18. The guide member 84 can be realized as a plain bearing, as a roller bearing, as a fluid bearing, etc. In at least one embodiment of the container supplying device 10, the guide member 84 is preferably realized as a linear guide carriage. However, it is also conceivable that the guide member 84 has other embodiments considered appropriate by the person skilled in the art, in particular suitable embodiments suited to the type of movement to be guided. The moving unit 26 preferably comprises four guide members 84 for guiding the movement of the lifting unit 18 relative to the magazine unit 16 along and / or about the movement axis 30 of the lifting unit 18. Preferably, the movement axis 30 of the lifting unit 18 extends at least substantially perpendicular to the lifting direction 20 of the lifting unit 18. The movement axis 30 of the lifting unit 18 is preferably realized as a linear movement axis, along which the lifting unit 18 is supported for translational movement relative to the magazine unit 16. Alternatively or additionally, however, it is also conceivable that the movement axis 30 is realized as a pivotal movement axis, along which the lifting unit 18 is supported for pivotal movement relative to the magazine unit 16. The movement axis 30 preferably extends at least substantially parallel to the conveying surface 22 of the conveying member 24. Preferably, the movement axis 30 extends at least substantially perpendicular to the lifting plane of the lifting unit 18.

[0033] The axis of movement 30 of the lifting unit 18, along which the lifting unit 18 is supported so as to be particularly drivably movable relative to the magazine unit 16, is oriented so as to be inclined with respect to the horizontal plane 32. In particular, the axis of movement 30 of the lifting unit 18 has an angle 34 with a value in the range of values ​​between 0° and 90° with respect to the horizontal plane 32. The axis of movement 30 of the lifting unit 18 preferably has an angle 34 with a plane extending at least substantially parallel to the horizontal plane 32 and / or to the base surface 62 of the frame unit 52, in particular less than 45°, preferably less than 35°, particularly preferably less than 25°. Very particularly preferably, the axis of movement 30 of the lifting unit 18 has an angle 34 with a value in the range of values ​​between 0° and 20° with respect to the horizontal plane 32 and / or to the plane extending at least substantially parallel to the base surface 62 of the frame unit 52.

[0034] The movement unit 26 comprises at least one drive 36, by means of which the lifting unit 18 can be actively moved relative to the magazine unit 16 along a movement axis 30 of the lifting unit 18. The drive 36 is preferably realised as a linear drive, in particular as a servo cylinder. However, it is also conceivable that the drive 36 has other embodiments deemed suitable by the skilled person, for example as a rack-and-pinion drive, a hydraulic cylinder or a pneumatic cylinder etc. Preferably, the drive 36 has a drive axis that runs at least substantially parallel to the movement axis 30 of the lifting unit 18. At one end, the drive 36 is preferably arranged on the frame 28 of the magazine unit 16, in particular fixed thereto, and at another end, the drive 36 is arranged on the lifting unit 18, in particular fixed thereto. The container supply device 10 and / or the production machine 44 preferably comprises at least one control or regulating unit 86 (see FIG. 1 ), which is configured to control or regulate at least the drive 36 of the movement unit 26 for the movement of the lifting unit 18. The container supply device 10 and / or the production machine 44 comprises at least one sensor unit (not shown in detail here) for detecting the position of the individual members and / or units of the container supply device 10 and / or the production machine 44, whose signals can be processed by the control or regulating unit 86 for controlling or regulating at least the movement of the lifting unit 18.

[0035] The lifting unit 18 has at least one movably supported lateral guide member 38, 40, which is configured to at least partially surround or cover the container 12, in particular the container stack, in the state in which the container 12, in particular the container stack, is arranged on the lifting unit 18 (see Figs. 4 to 7). The lateral guide member 38, 40 is preferably realized as a lateral guide plate. However, it is also conceivable that the lateral guide member 38, 40 has other embodiments that are considered appropriate by the person skilled in the art, such as, for example, as a lateral guide grid or lateral guide web, etc. Preferably, in the state in which the container 12, in particular the container stack, is arranged on the lifting unit 18, the lateral guide member 38, 40 projects beyond the container 12, in particular the container stack, along a direction that extends at least substantially perpendicularly to the lifting plane. The lateral guide member 38, 40 may be supported so as to be translatably and / or pivotally movable. The movement axis 42 of the lateral guide members 38, 40 of the lifting unit 18 preferably extends transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the movement axis 30 of the lifting unit 18. The lateral guide members 38, 40 can be actively supported, in particular so as to be actively movable by one or several motors (not shown in detail here) of the lifting unit 18, for example by hydraulic cylinders, by pneumatic cylinders or by servo cylinders or the like, or the lateral guide members 38, 40 can be supported so as to be manually movable, in particular for changing or adjusting the position of the lateral guide members 38, 40 relative to the containers 12, in particular relative to the container stack. Preferably, the lifting unit 18 comprises two lateral guide members 38, 40 per lifting track 80, in particular one left lateral guide member 38 and one right lateral guide member 40 per lifting track 80.

[0036] 8 shows a schematic process flow of a method 46 for supplying containers 12, in particular cups, to a metering device and / or filling device 14, in particular the above-mentioned metering device and / or filling device 14, by means of a container supplying device, in particular the above-mentioned container supplying device 10. Preferably, in at least one method step 88 of the method 46, the magazine unit 16 is loaded with containers 12, in particular a container stack, in particular manually by an operator or automatically, for example by a robot. During loading, the containers 12, in particular the container stack, are preferably inserted into a feed track 58 of the magazine unit 16. Preferably, the stop member 50 of the magazine unit 16 is closed during loading. Due to the inclination of the magazine unit 16, the containers 12, in particular the container stack, preferably slide on the conveying surface 22 of the conveying member 24 until the containers 12, in particular the container stack, come to rest against the stop member 50 or against a previously placed container 12, in particular a container stack.

[0037] In at least one method step 90 of the method 46, the lifting unit 18 is moved, preferably by the movement unit 26, relative to the magazine unit 16, in particular towards the magazine unit 16 along a movement axis 30 of the lifting unit 18 extending transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the lifting direction 20 of the lifting unit 18. Preferably, in particular in method step 90, the lifting unit 18 is actively moved, in particular moved transversely, by the drive 36 of the movement unit 26 to a proximity area 48 of a movably supported stop member 50, in particular of the plurality of stop members 50, of the magazine unit 16 and / or to a transport member 24, in particular of the plurality of transport members 24, of the magazine unit 16.

[0038] In at least one method step 92 of the method 46, the stopper element 50, in particular the stopper elements 50, are preferably moved to an open position. In at least one method step 94 of the method 46, the containers 12, in particular one individual container stack per feed track 58, are preferably transported by the transport element 24 into the lifting unit 18, in particular into the lifting track 80, in particular into the lifting track 80 assigned to each feed track 58. In at least one method step 96 of the method 46, the stopper element 50, in particular the stopper elements 50, are preferably moved to a closed position. In at least one method step 98 of the method 46, preferably at least one lateral guide element 38, 40 of the lifting unit 18, which is configured to at least partially surround the container 12, in particular the container stack, in a state when the container 12, in particular the container stack, is arranged in the lifting unit 18, is actively moved. Preferably, in method step 98 of method 46, at least a lateral guide member 38 of the lifting unit 18 and another lateral guide member 40 of the lifting unit 18 are actively moved in opposite directions to each other.

[0039] In at least one method step 100 of the method 46, the lifting unit 18 is preferably moved, preferably by the movement unit 26, relative to the magazine unit 16, in particular away from the magazine unit 16, along a movement axis 30 of the lifting unit 18 extending transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to a lifting direction 20 of the lifting unit 18. In at least one method step 102 of the method 46, a container 12, in particular a container stack, is transported by the lifting unit 18 along the lifting direction 20, in particular to a container pick-up unit 70.

[0040] Further method steps of method 46 are also conceivable, such as a step of transferring containers 12, in particular a container stack, to a container pick-up unit 70, a step of handing over the containers 12, in particular a container stack, from the container pick-up unit 70 to a conveying device of the production machine 44, a step of filling the containers 12 by means of a metering device and / or a filling device 14, or other method steps considered appropriate by a person skilled in the art. In particular, the further method steps of method 46 can be derived from the description of method 46 in accordance with Figures 1 to 7.

Claims

1. 1. A container supplying device, in particular a cup supplying device, for supplying containers (12), in particular cups, to a metering device and / or filling device (14), comprising at least one magazine unit (16) for accommodating a plurality of containers (12), in particular a plurality of container stacks, and at least one lifting unit (18) for transporting said containers (12), in particular said container stack, along a lifting direction (20) of the lifting unit (18), in particular to a plane which is located higher than a conveying surface (22) of a conveying member (24) of the magazine unit (16), Container supplying device, characterized in that at least one moving unit (26) is provided which supports the lifting unit (18) such that the lifting unit (18) is movable, in particular drivably movable, relative to the magazine unit (16), in particular relative to a frame (28) of the magazine unit (16), along a movement axis (30) of the lifting unit (18) which extends transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the lifting direction (20).

2. 2. The container supply device according to claim 1, wherein along a movement axis (30) along which the lifting unit (18) is supported so as to be drivably movable relative to the magazine unit (16), the movement axis (30) of the lifting unit (18) is oriented so as to have an inclination with respect to a horizontal plane (32), and in particular has an angle (34) with respect to the horizontal plane (32) having a value in the range of values ​​between 0° and 90°.

3. 3. The container supply device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the moving unit (26) includes at least one drive device (36), in particular a servo cylinder, by means of which the lifting unit (18) can be actively moved relative to the magazine unit (16) along the movement axis (30) of the lifting unit (18).

4. 4. The container supply device according to claim 1, wherein the lifting unit (18) has at least one movably supported lateral guide member (38, 40) configured to at least partially surround or cover the container (12), in particular the container stack, when the container (12), in particular the container stack, is arranged on the lifting unit (18).

5. 5. A container supply device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lifting unit (18) has at least one movably supported lateral guide member (38, 40), the movement axis (42) of which extends transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the movement axis (30) of the lifting unit (18).

6. A manufacturing machine comprising at least one container supplying device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. A method for supplying containers (12), in particular cups, to a dosing device and / or a filling device (14) by means of a container supply device, in particular by means of a container supply device according to one of claims 1 to 5, comprising: The method is characterized in that a lifting unit (18) of the container supplying device is moved by a moving unit (26) relative to a magazine unit (16) of the container supplying device along a movement axis (30) of the lifting unit (18) extending transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to a lifting direction (20) of the lifting unit (18).

8. 8. The method according to claim 7, wherein the lifting unit (18) is actively moved by at least one drive (36) of the moving unit (26) to a proximity area (48) of a movably supported stop member (50) of the magazine unit (16), in particular a movably supported separation flap, and / or to a proximity area (48) of a conveying member (24) of the magazine unit (16).

9. 9. The method according to claim 7 or 8, wherein at least one lateral guide member (38, 40) of the lifting unit (18), which is configured to at least partially surround the container (12), in particular the container stack, laterally in a state in which the container (12), in particular the container stack, is arranged in the lifting unit (18), is actively moved.

10. 10. The method according to claim 7, wherein at least one lateral guide member (38) of the lifting unit (18) and another lateral guide member (40) of the lifting unit (18) are actively moved in opposite directions to each other.

Images