Preform sterilization method and preform sterilization apparatus

Abstract

To provide a preform sterilization method and preform sterilization apparatus that achieve effective sterilization at low cost and in a short time. [Solution] A preform sterilization method for sterilizing the surface of a preform P, comprising a heat treatment of heating the preform P to a molding temperature, a chemical sterilization treatment of spraying a sterilizing agent, and a photosterilization treatment of irradiating with germicidal light, wherein the inner surface of the preform P is sterilized by the chemical sterilization treatment, the outer surface of the body of the preform P is sterilized by the photosterilization treatment, and the outer surface of the mouth of the preform P is sterilized by either the chemical sterilization treatment or the photosterilization treatment, and the chemical sterilization treatment and the photosterilization treatment are performed after the heat treatment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a preform sterilization method and a preform sterilization apparatus for sterilizing the surface of a preform which is a preform for containers such as PET bottles.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as a preform sterilization method for sterilizing the surface of a preform which is a preform for containers such as PET bottles, it is known to use a sterilization treatment utilizing a sterilizing agent such as hydrogen peroxide (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, when a sterilizing agent is used for the inner and outer surfaces of the preform, there is a problem that the amount of the sterilizing agent used increases, and the cost of the sterilizing agent rises.

[0005] Accordingly, the present invention is to solve these problems, and an object thereof is to provide a preform sterilization method and a preform sterilization apparatus that realize effective sterilization at low cost and in a short time.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The present invention provides a preform sterilization method for sterilizing the surface of a preform, comprising: a heat treatment of heating the preform to a molding temperature; a chemical sterilization treatment of spraying a sterilizing agent; and a photosterilization treatment of irradiating with germicidal light, wherein the inner surface of the preform is sterilized by the chemical sterilization treatment, the outer surface of the body of the preform is sterilized by the photosterilization treatment, and the outer surface of the mouth of the preform is sterilized by either the chemical sterilization treatment or the photosterilization treatment, and the chemical sterilization treatment and the photosterilization treatment are performed after the heat treatment, thereby solving the aforementioned problem. Furthermore, the present invention provides a preform sterilization apparatus for sterilizing the surface of a preform, comprising a heating means for heating the preform to a molding temperature, a chemical sterilization means for spraying a sterilizing agent, and a photosterilization means for irradiating germicidal light, wherein the chemical sterilization means and the photosterilization means are configured to sterilize the inner surface of the preform by the chemical sterilization means, the outer surface of the body of the preform by the photosterilization means, and the outer surface of the mouth of the preform by the chemical sterilization means or the photosterilization means, and the chemical sterilization means and the photosterilization means are installed downstream of the heating means, thereby solving the aforementioned problems.

[0007] In the preform sterilization method or preform sterilization apparatus described above, the outer surface of the opening of the preform may be sterilized simultaneously with the disinfectant sprayed in the disinfectant treatment for sterilizing the inner surface of the preform. In any of the preform sterilization methods or preform sterilization apparatuses described above, the photosterilization treatment may involve irradiating the preform with an infrared laser as the germicidal light. In any of the preform sterilization methods or preform sterilization apparatuses described above, the infrared laser may be a CO2 laser. In any of the preform sterilization methods or preform sterilization apparatuses described above, UV light may be used as the germicidal light in the photosterilization treatment. In any of the preform sterilization methods or preform sterilization apparatuses described above, the photosterilization treatment may involve irradiating the preform with infrared laser light and UV light as the sterilizing light. In any of the preform sterilization methods or preform sterilization apparatuses described above, the photosterilization treatment may involve simultaneously irradiating with an infrared laser and UV light, or irradiating with an infrared laser first, followed by UV light. In any of the above-described preform sterilization methods or preform sterilization apparatus, the photosterilization treatment may include an upward irradiation treatment in which an infrared laser is irradiated onto the outer surface of the mouth of the preform from a diagonally downward side, and a downward irradiation treatment in which an infrared laser is irradiated onto the outer surface of the mouth of the preform from a diagonally upward side. In any of the above-described preform sterilization methods or preform sterilization apparatus, the photosterilization treatment may include an upward irradiation treatment in which an infrared laser is irradiated onto the outer surface of the body of the preform from an oblique downward side. In any of the above-described preform sterilization methods or preform sterilization apparatus, in the photosterilization treatment, the irradiation spot of the infrared laser as the germicidal light may be formed into a ring shape that surrounds the preform from the outer circumference, and the irradiation spot may be moved in the axial direction of the preform while irradiating the outer surface of the preform. In any of the above-described preform sterilization methods or preform sterilization apparatus, the photosterilization treatment may involve shaping the irradiation spot of the infrared laser, which serves as the germicidal light, into a line extending in the axial direction of the preform, and irradiating the outer surface of the body of the preform with the infrared laser from a diagonally downward direction while rotating the preform around its central axis. In any of the above-described preform sterilization methods or preform sterilization apparatus, the photosterilization treatment may involve rotating the preform around its central axis as the axis of rotation, while scanning the irradiation spot of the infrared laser used as sterilization light in the axial and / or circumferential directions of the preform, thereby irradiating the outer surface of the body of the preform with the infrared laser. In any of the above-described preform sterilization methods or preform sterilization apparatus, the photosterilization treatment may involve moving the preform along a transport path without rotation, and when the preform reaches a photosterilization position set on the transport path, the sterilization light may be flashed from at least two light sources positioned to surround the preform that has moved to the photosterilization position from its outer periphery. In any of the above-described preform sterilization methods or preform sterilization apparatus, the photosterilization process may involve moving the preform along a transport path while it is rotating, and when the preform reaches a photosterilization position set on the transport path, the preform that has moved to the photosterilization position may be flashed with germicidal light from at least one light source installed on its outer circumference. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] This invention enables effective sterilization at low cost and in a short time. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] An explanatory diagram showing an aseptic filling system equipped with a preform sterilization device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] An explanatory diagram showing the first embodiment of a preform sterilization device. [Figure 3] An explanatory diagram showing a second embodiment of the preform sterilization device. [Figure 4] An explanatory diagram showing a third embodiment of the preform sterilization device. [Figure 5] An explanatory diagram showing a fourth embodiment of the preform sterilization device. [Figure 6] An explanatory diagram showing the fifth embodiment of the preform sterilization device. [Figure 7] An explanatory diagram showing the results of tests to confirm the sterilization effect. [Figure 8a] An explanatory diagram showing the test configuration. [Figure 8b] An explanatory diagram showing the test configuration. [Figure 9]An explanatory diagram showing an example of a light sterilizer that sterilizes the inner surface of a preform.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, an aseptic filling system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described based on the drawings. The terms "upstream" and "downstream" as used in the present specification mean upstream or downstream in the transport direction of the preform P or the container. Further, the terms "upper" and "lower" for the preform P define the mouth side of the preform P as upper and the bottom side as lower.

[0011] First, the aseptic filling system 10 is configured as a so-called in-line blow-type filling system that aseptically fills sterilized contents (particularly content liquid) into a sterilized container, and as shown in FIG. 1, includes an aseptic molding apparatus 20 for aseptically molding the container, and a filling apparatus 60 for aseptically filling the contents into the container.

[0012] Hereinafter, each component of the aseptic filling system 10 will be described based on the drawings.

[0013] First, the aseptic molding apparatus 20 aseptically molds a sterilized container that has undergone sterilization treatment, and as shown in FIG. 1, includes an inlet portion 21 for loading a preform P as a preform body of a container such as a PET bottle, a blow molding turret 22, an oven mechanism 30 that performs temperature raising treatment on the preform P in an oven area A1 set on the downstream side of the inlet portion 21, a preform transport mechanism 40 that transports the preform P, and a preform sterilization apparatus 50 that sterilizes the preform P.

[0014] As shown in FIG. 1, the inlet portion 21 is a part for loading the preform P into the aseptic molding apparatus 20 (aseptic filling system 10).

[0015] As shown in FIG. 1, the blow molding turret 22 is disposed on the downstream side of the oven area A1, and performs aseptic blow molding on the preform P. Specifically, the blow molding turret 22 is configured as a turret equipped with a blow machine (not shown) that performs biaxial stretch blow molding of containers such as PET bottles by blowing sterile air into a preform P that has been heated to the molding temperature for aseptic blow molding.

[0016] The molding area A3, where the blow molding turret 22 is installed, is covered by a chamber and maintained in a sterile and positive-pressure environment by blowing sterile air, filtered through a HEPA filter, from above using an FFU (Fan Filter Unit). Furthermore, all equipment, including the blow molding turret 22 and blow molding machine installed in molding area A3, is sterilized all the way to the end of the blow molding piping. Preform P, whose container sterilization has been completed solely through sterilization treatment at the preform stage, is transported to molding area A3 and subjected to sterile blow molding. As a result, aseptic blow molding is performed in molding area A3 under sterile conditions. Therefore, it becomes unnecessary to locally create a sterile air or sterilizing gas atmosphere near the transport path when transporting preforms P and blow-molded containers within molding area A3, and sterilization of the blow-molded containers is also unnecessary.

[0017] The oven mechanism 30 performs a heating process to raise the temperature of the preform P (specifically its body P1) to the molding temperature (approximately 110°C) used during aseptic blow molding in the blow molding turret 22. It comprises an oven chamber 31 with an oven area A1 inside, and a plurality of heating heaters 32 configured as infrared heaters to raise the temperature of the preform P. Furthermore, the oven mechanism 30 may be provided with a simple cover surrounding the oven instead of the oven chamber 31, or the oven chamber 31 may be omitted altogether.

[0018] The body portion P1 of the preform P is the part that is placed inside the mold and expanded within the mold during aseptic blow molding. As shown in Figure 1, it is the part below the lower surface of the neck ring Pb formed on the outer circumferential surface of the preform P (excluding the lower surface of the neck ring Pb). Furthermore, the mouth portion P2 of the preform P is a part that is placed outside the mold during aseptic blow molding and is not expanded. As shown in Figure 1, it is a part above the lower surface of the neck ring Pb (excluding the lower surface of the neck ring Pb), and is a part in which a screw portion Pa is formed that can be screwed onto the cap that will be attached to the container in the blow-molded container state.

[0019] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, transfer area A2 is located downstream of oven area A1 and upstream of molding area A3. It is more contaminated than molding area A3 but less contaminated than oven area A1.

[0020] The preform transport mechanism 40 transports the preform P fed in from the inlet 21 to the blow molding turret 22. As shown in Figure 1, it comprises a transporter 41 that transports the preform P mainly in the oven area A1, and a plurality of turrets 42 that transport the preform P discharged from the oven area A1 toward the blow molding turret 22.

[0021] The turret 42 transports the preform P in the transfer area A2 and the molding area A3, and these turrets 42 have multiple grippers that grip the preform P from the outer circumference. It is desirable to sterilize the gripping parts of the grippers with UV irradiation or a disinfectant.

[0022] The preform P can be transported in any orientation by the preform transport mechanism 40, such as upright, inverted (i.e., with the opening P2 of the preform P facing downwards), or sideways (i.e., with the opening P2 of the preform P facing sideways).

[0023] The aseptic molding apparatus 20 is configured to perform sterilization treatment using a preform sterilization apparatus 50 or the like when the contents are filled into the filling apparatus 60, so that the container becomes commercially sterile (i.e., a state in which all public health harmful microorganisms that could grow in the beverage under normal non-refrigerated storage and distribution conditions have been killed).

[0024] In this embodiment, the sterilization treatment by the preform sterilizer 50, etc., is configured to complete the sterilization of the container by preform sterilization treatment only at the preform stage before the container is formed by aseptic blow molding, without performing sterilization treatment at the container stage after aseptic blow molding (without requiring sterilization treatment at the container stage) (more specifically, in this embodiment, sterilization is completed by the transfer area A2, and the sterilized preform P is transported to the molding area A3). In other words, the container is configured to become commercially sterile by preform sterilization treatment only at the preform stage, and to put it another way, the preform sterilization treatment at the preform stage is configured to kill bacteria to be sterilized (bacteria that can grow in the contents filled in the container, such as mold, general bacteria, spore-forming bacteria, etc.) (on the entire surface including the inner and outer surfaces of the preform P).

[0025] The filling device 60 is installed downstream of the aseptic molding device 20 and, as shown in Figure 1, includes a filling section 61 for filling the container with contents and a capping section 62 located downstream of the filling section 61 for attaching a sterilized cap to the mouth of the container.

[0026] Each step in the filling apparatus 60 is performed within a chamber whose interior is kept sterile. Furthermore, the sterile state of the container is maintained even in the section where the container is transported between the sterile molding device 20 and the filling device 60. In other words, the sterile state of the container is maintained throughout the entire section from when the container is aseptically blow-molded by the blow molding turret 22 until the contents are aseptically filled into the container in the filling section 61. In this embodiment, the sterile state of the container is maintained throughout this entire section by covering it with a chamber.

[0027] The preform sterilization apparatus 50 (preform sterilization method) is configured to sterilize the inner surface (the entire inner surface including the body P1 and mouth P2) and outer surface (the entire outer surface including the body P1 including the bottom and mouth P2) of the preform P in an area downstream of the oven area A1 and upstream of the blow molding turret 22 (in this embodiment, the transfer area A2). As shown in Figure 1, it comprises a heating means (in this embodiment, the oven mechanism 30) that performs a heat treatment to heat the preform P to the molding temperature, a chemical sterilizer 51 as a chemical sterilization means that performs a chemical sterilization treatment by spraying a sterilizing agent onto the preform P, and a photosterilizer 52 installed upstream of the chemical sterilizer 51 as a photosterilization means that performs a photosterilization treatment by irradiating the preform P with germicidal light.

[0028] The chemical sterilizer 51 is equipped with a nozzle 51a for spraying disinfectant. Examples of disinfectants sprayed by the disinfectant sterilizer 51 include hydrogen peroxide (hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution) and peracetic acid (peracetic acid aqueous solution).

[0029] The photogerm 52 includes a light source 52a that emits germicidal light, optical components 52b such as lenses and mirrors, and a drive unit that moves these light source and optical components. Examples of germicidal light irradiated by the photogermicidal device 52 include infrared lasers and UV light. During the germicidal treatment by the photogermicidal device 52, the preform P may be irradiated with only an infrared laser or only UV light, or both an infrared laser and UV light may be irradiated onto the preform P. When irradiating preform P with an infrared laser and UV light, the preform P may be irradiated with both the infrared laser and UV light simultaneously, or the preform P may be irradiated with the infrared laser first and then with UV light. As for infrared lasers, any known laser with a germicidal effect can be applied, such as CO2 lasers, diode lasers, fiber lasers, YAG lasers, YVO4 lasers, and CO lasers. However, CO2 lasers are particularly preferred, and the examples will be explained using a CO2 laser. A CO2 laser is a type of gas laser that uses a mixture of carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and helium. A laser beam is produced by passing a discharge current through this gas mixture. It is preferable to use a CO2 laser with a wavelength in the 9 μm band (center wavelength of 9.0-9.9 μm) as germicidal light. Furthermore, when irradiating with UV light by the photo-sterilizer 52, the light source 52a could be a UV lamp including a UV-LED or a xenon lamp (xenon arc lamp), etc.

[0030] The heating means heats the body P1 of the preform, and in this embodiment, the oven mechanism 30, which serves as the heating means, heats the body P1 of the preform P to the molding temperature during the container molding process. Furthermore, it is preferable that the heat treatment is set to heat the body P1 of the preform P so that the temperature of the area to be sterilized on the body P1 of the preform P reaches 110°C or higher during sterilization treatment with the chemical sterilizer 51 and the photosterilizer 52. The chemical sterilization treatment using the chemical sterilizer 51 and the photosterilization treatment using the photosterilizer 52 are performed after the heat treatment using the heating means.

[0031] The preform sterilization device 50 (preform sterilization method) is configured to sterilize the inner surface of the preform P with a chemical sterilizer 51, sterilize the outer surface of the body of the preform P with a photo-sterilizer 52, and sterilize the outer surface of the mouth of the preform P with either the chemical sterilizer 51 or the photo-sterilizer 52. The sterilization treatment by the preform sterilization device 50 (preform sterilization method) is performed on the preform P while it is being transported by the turret 42.

[0032] Below, several embodiments of the preform sterilization apparatus 50 (preform sterilization method) will be described based on the drawings.

[0033] [First Embodiment] The first embodiment is as follows:

[0034] First, in the first embodiment, as shown in Figure 2, the photosterilizer 52 (photosterilization treatment) sterilizes the entire outer surface of the preform P, specifically the entire outer surface of the preform P including the outer surface of the body (including the bottom outer surface) and the outer surface of the mouth, by irradiation with germicidal light L without rotating the preform P.

[0035] To explain in more detail, the photosterilizer 52 (photosterilization treatment), as shown in Figure 2, has an upward irradiation unit 52A (upward irradiation treatment) that irradiates the outer surface of the mouth of the preform P with a CO2 laser from a diagonally downward side, and a downward irradiation unit 52B (downward irradiation treatment) that irradiates the outer surface of the mouth of the preform P with a CO2 laser from a diagonally upward side. In the upward irradiation section 52A (upward irradiation processing) and the downward irradiation section 52B (downward irradiation processing), the irradiation spot Ls of the CO2 laser, which is the germicidal light L, is formed into a ring shape that surrounds the preform P from the outer circumference, and the irradiation spot Ls is moved in the axial direction of the preform P (up and down direction of the preform P) (i.e., moved toward at least one of the upward or downward sides), thereby irradiating the entire outer surface of the mouth of the preform P with germicidal light. The angle of the germicidal light L in the upward irradiation section 52A (upward irradiation treatment) and the downward irradiation section 52B (downward irradiation treatment) is preferably greater than 0 degrees and 60 degrees or less (preferably 30 degrees or more and 60 degrees or less) with respect to the perpendicular line of the central axis of the preform P (the same applies to the second to fifth embodiments described later). In the upward irradiation section 52A (upward irradiation process), the CO2 laser is irradiated from an oblique downward direction to the outer surface of the body (including the bottom outer surface) and the lower surface of the neck ring Pb, in addition to the outer surface of the mouth of the preform P, while the irradiation spot Ls is moved in the axial direction of the preform P. Furthermore, the outer surface of the body of the preform P may be irradiated with a CO2 laser by providing a downward irradiation unit 52B (downward irradiation treatment) or a sideways irradiation unit (not shown) (sideways irradiation treatment) that irradiates germicidal light from a direction perpendicular to the body. In this case, an irradiation unit (irradiation treatment) that irradiates germicidal light L to the bottom of the preform P may be provided separately.

[0036] The upward irradiating section 52A and the downward irradiating section 52B each include a light source 52a that irradiates with a CO2 laser, an optical member (not shown) that shapes the CO2 laser into a ring shape, an optical member 52b that reflects the ring-shaped CO2 laser, and a driving means (not shown) that moves the optical member 52b in the axial direction.

[0037] Furthermore, when sterilization is performed using the upward irradiation unit 52A and the downward irradiation unit 52B, the preform P is held in place by a holder (not shown) inserted inside the preform P without rotating (rotating) the preform P. Furthermore, the downward irradiation unit 52B is installed to perform sterilization in an area set to be downstream or upstream of the upward irradiation unit 52A.

[0038] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, as shown in Figure 2, after the sterilization treatment by the photo-sterilizer 52 described above, a disinfectant is sprayed onto the inner surface of the preform P using the chemical sterilizer 51 (chemical sterilization treatment), thereby sterilizing the entire inner surface of the preform P, specifically the entire inner surface including the inner surface of the body and the inner surface of the mouth. The chemical sterilizer 51 (chemical sterilization treatment) may also sterilize the outer surface of the mouth of the preform P with chemicals, as in the chemical sterilizer 51 (chemical sterilization treatment) of the second embodiment described later. In this case, the photosterilizer 52 (photosterilization treatment) will sterilize only the outer surface of the body of the preform P.

[0039] [Second Example] Next, the second embodiment is as follows.

[0040] First, in the photo-sterilization treatment (photo-sterilizer 52) of the second embodiment, as shown in Figure 3, there is an upward irradiation unit 52A (upward irradiation treatment) that irradiates the outer surface of the body (including the bottom) of the preform P with a CO2 laser from a diagonally downward side. In the second embodiment, the upward irradiation section 52A (upward irradiation treatment) uses an optical element 52b such as a cylindrical lens to form an irradiation spot Ls of the CO2 laser as germicidal light L into a line extending in the axial direction of the preform P. The CO2 laser is irradiated from a diagonally downward side to the outer surface of the body of the preform P (including the outer surface of the bottom) while the preform P is rotated around its central axis as the axis of rotation. At this time, the CO2 laser may also be irradiated to the lower surface of the neck ring Pb. In the photo-sterilization treatment (photo-sterilizer 52) of the second embodiment, the preform P is held by a holder (not shown) inserted into the preform P, and the CO2 laser is irradiated while the preform P is rotated by rotating the holder.

[0041] As shown in Figure 3, the photo-sterilizer 52 of the second embodiment includes a light source 52a that irradiates with a CO2 laser, an optical member 52b that shapes the CO2 laser into a line, and an optical member 52b that reflects the line-shaped CO2 laser. The angle of the optical element 52b that reflects the CO2 laser can be changed to provide a downward irradiation section (downward irradiation process) that irradiates the body of the preform P with the CO2 laser from diagonally above, or a sideways irradiation section (sideways irradiation process) that irradiates germicidal light from a direction perpendicular to the body. In this case, an irradiation section (irradiation process) that irradiates germicidal light L to the bottom of the preform P may be provided separately.

[0042] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, as shown in Figure 3, after the sterilization treatment by the photo-sterilizer 52 described above, the entire inner surface of the preform P is sterilized by spraying a disinfectant onto the inner surface of the preform P using the chemical sterilizer 51 (chemical sterilization treatment), specifically including the inner surface of the body and the inner surface of the mouth.

[0043] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, as shown in Figure 3, by providing an enclosure member 51b surrounding the upper side of the preform P so that the disinfectant sprayed onto the inner surface of the preform P is also supplied to the outer surface of the opening, the outer surface of the opening of the preform P is simultaneously disinfected by the disinfectant sprayed to disinfect the inner surface of the preform P. At this time, the lower surface of the neck ring Pb may also be disinfected by the disinfectant.

[0044] Furthermore, in the chemical sterilizer 51 (chemical sterilization treatment), as in the first embodiment, the sterilizing agent may be sprayed only onto the inner surface of the preform P. In this case, the outer surface of the mouth of the preform P is sterilized by photosterilization (photosterilizer 52). Specifically, the upward irradiation unit 52A (upward irradiation treatment) expands the irradiation spot Ls of the CO2 laser to the outer surface of the mouth of the preform P, irradiating the outer surface of the mouth and the outer surface of the body with the CO2 laser. In addition, a downward irradiation unit (downward irradiation treatment) is provided, in which the position and angle of the optical member 52b that reflects the CO2 laser are different, and the CO2 laser is irradiated from diagonally above the mouth of the preform P with the CO2 laser.

[0045] [Third Embodiment] Next, the third embodiment is as follows.

[0046] First, in the photo-sterilization treatment (photo-sterilizer 52) of the third embodiment, as shown in Figure 4, there is an upward irradiation unit 52A (upward irradiation treatment) that irradiates the outer surface of the body (including the bottom) of the preform P with a CO2 laser from a diagonally downward side. Furthermore, while the preform P is rotated around its central axis, an optical component 52b such as a galvanometer mirror scans the CO2 laser irradiation spot Ls, which serves as germicidal light L, in the axial and / or circumferential direction of the preform P, so that the CO2 laser is irradiated onto the outer surface of the body of the preform P from a diagonally downward side. At this time, the CO2 laser may also be irradiated onto the lower surface of the neck ring Pb. Known shapes such as round, square, linear, and ring shapes can be used for the spot Ls. In the photo-sterilization treatment (photo-sterilizer 52) of the third embodiment, the preform P is held by a holder (not shown) inserted into the preform P, and the CO2 laser is irradiated while the preform P is rotated (rotated on its own axis) by rotating the holder.

[0047] As shown in Figure 4, the photo-sterilizer 52 of the third embodiment includes a light source 52a that irradiates with a CO2 laser and an optical member 52b that reflects and scans the CO2 laser. The CO2 laser may be irradiated by changing the position and angle of the optical element 52b that reflects and scans the CO2 laser, and by providing a downward irradiation unit (downward irradiation process) that irradiates the body of the preform P from diagonally above, or an irradiation unit (irradiation process) that changes to upward irradiation, sideways irradiation, and downward irradiation during scanning. In this case, an irradiation unit (irradiation process) that irradiates germicidal light L to the bottom of the preform P may be provided separately.

[0048] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, as shown in Figure 4, after the sterilization treatment by the photo-sterilizer 52 described above, sterilization treatment by the chemical sterilizer 51 is performed. Here, the chemical sterilizer 51 (chemical sterilization treatment) in the third embodiment is exactly the same as the chemical sterilizer 51 (chemical sterilization treatment) in the second embodiment described above, so its explanation will be omitted.

[0049] Furthermore, in the chemical sterilizer 51 (chemical sterilization treatment), as in the first embodiment, the sterilizing agent may be sprayed only onto the inner surface of the preform P. In this case, the outer surface of the mouth of the preform P is sterilized by photosterilization (photosterilizer 52). Specifically, the upward irradiation unit 52A (upward irradiation treatment) scans the irradiation spot Ls of the CO2 laser to the outer surface of the mouth of the preform P, irradiating the outer surface of the mouth and the outer surface of the body with the CO2 laser. In addition, a downward irradiation unit (not shown) (downward irradiation treatment) is provided, in which the position and angle of the optical member 52b that reflects the CO2 laser are different, and the CO2 laser is irradiated from diagonally above the mouth of the preform P with the CO2 laser.

[0050] In the above-described examples (Examples 1 to 3), a CO2 laser was used as the germicidal light; however, in these examples, an infrared laser other than a CO2 laser may be used as the germicidal light.

[0051] [Fourth embodiment] Next, the fourth embodiment is as follows.

[0052] First, in the photo-sterilization treatment (photo-sterilizer 52) of the fourth embodiment, the preform P is moved along the transport path without rotating, and as shown in Figure 5, when the preform P reaches one (or more) photo-sterilization positions set on the transport path, UV light as germicidal light L is flashed (instantaneous irradiation) for a short time from at least two (four in this embodiment) UV-LEDs or the like, which are installed to surround the preform P that has moved to the photo-sterilization position from the outer periphery, onto the outer surface of the body of the preform P. In other words, the germicidal light L is turned ON only when the preform P is at the predetermined photo-sterilization position, and the germicidal light L is turned OFF when it is away from the photo-sterilization position, thus using ON-OFF control. As the light source for germicidal light L, UV-LEDs, xenon lamps, laser light, etc., which have excellent ON-OFF response, are preferred. Infrared lasers may also be used as germicidal light L.

[0053] More specifically, in the fourth embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, the upward irradiation unit 52A (upward irradiation treatment) irradiates the outer surface of the body portion (including the bottom portion) of the preform P with germicidal light L from an oblique downward side. Furthermore, the outer surface of the body of the preform P may be irradiated with germicidal light L by providing a downward irradiation section (downward irradiation treatment) or a sideways irradiation section (sideways irradiation treatment) that irradiates germicidal light from a direction perpendicular to the body. In this case, an irradiation section (irradiation treatment) that irradiates germicidal light L to the bottom of the preform P may be provided separately.

[0054] Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, after the sterilization treatment by the photo-sterilizer 52 described above, sterilization treatment by the chemical sterilizer 51 is performed. Here, the chemical sterilizer 51 (chemical sterilization treatment) in the fourth embodiment is exactly the same as the chemical sterilizer 51 (chemical sterilization treatment) in the second embodiment described above, so its explanation will be omitted.

[0055] In addition, as in the first embodiment, the chemical sterilizer 51 (chemical sterilization treatment) may spray a sterilizing agent only on the inner surface of the preform P. In this case, the outer surface of the mouth of the preform P is sterilized by photosterilization (photosterilizer 52). Specifically, the upward irradiation unit 52A (upward irradiation treatment) irradiates the outer surface of the mouth and the outer surface of the body with germicidal light L, and a downward irradiation unit (not shown) (downward irradiation treatment) is provided to irradiate the outer surface of the mouth of the preform P with germicidal light L from diagonally above the mouth of the preform P.

[0056] [Fifth Example] Next, the fifth embodiment is as follows.

[0057] First, in the photosterilization treatment (photosterilizer 52) of the fifth embodiment, the preform P is moved along a transport path while rotating, and as shown in Figure 6, when the preform P reaches one (or more) photosterilization positions set on the transport path, UV light as germicidal light L is flashed (instantaneous irradiation) for a short time from a light source 52a consisting of at least one (two in this embodiment) UV-LEDs installed on the outer circumference of the preform P that has moved to the photosterilization position. In other words, the germicidal light L is turned ON only when the preform P is at the predetermined photosterilization position, and the germicidal light L is turned OFF when it is away from the photosterilization position, thus using ON-OFF control. As the light source for germicidal light L, UV-LEDs, xenon flash lamps, and laser light are preferred, as they have excellent ON-OFF response. Infrared lasers may also be used as germicidal light L.

[0058] More specifically, in the fifth embodiment, as shown in Figure 6, the upward irradiation unit 52A (upward irradiation treatment) irradiates the outer surface of the body portion (including the bottom portion) of the preform P with germicidal light L from an oblique downward side. Furthermore, the outer surface of the body of the preform P may be irradiated with germicidal light L by providing a downward irradiation section (downward irradiation treatment) or a sideways irradiation section (sideways irradiation treatment) that irradiates germicidal light from a direction perpendicular to the body. In this case, an irradiation section (irradiation treatment) that irradiates germicidal light L to the bottom of the preform P may be provided separately.

[0059] Furthermore, in the fifth embodiment, as shown in Figure 6, after the sterilization treatment by the photo-sterilizer 52 described above, sterilization treatment by the chemical sterilizer 51 is performed. Here, the chemical sterilizer 51 (chemical sterilization treatment) in the fifth embodiment is exactly the same as the chemical sterilizer 51 (chemical sterilization treatment) in the second embodiment described above, so its explanation will be omitted.

[0060] In addition, as in the first embodiment, the chemical sterilizer 51 (chemical sterilization treatment) may spray a sterilizing agent only on the inner surface of the preform P. In this case, the outer surface of the mouth of the preform P is sterilized by photosterilization (photosterilizer 52). Specifically, the upward irradiation unit 52A (upward irradiation treatment) irradiates the outer surface of the mouth and the outer surface of the body with germicidal light L, and a downward irradiation unit (not shown) (downward irradiation treatment) is provided to irradiate the outer surface of the mouth of the preform P with germicidal light L from diagonally above the mouth of the preform P.

[0061] Next, we will explain the tests conducted to confirm the sterilization effect, based on Figures 7 and 8.

[0062] First, in this test, a 19g preform P (a preform that will become a PET bottle equivalent to 500-600ml after molding) was prepared, and 5 × 10 was applied to each of the designated locations (one location each) on the inner surface of the body, the inner surface of the mouth, the outer surface of the body, and the valleys of the screw threads on the outer surface of the mouth of the preform P, which are the surfaces to be sterilized. 3The microorganisms used to inoculate the cfu were, specifically, spore-forming bacteria (Bacillus atrophaeus spores) in Examples 1 and 2 and Comparative Example 1, and fungi (Aspergillus niger conidia) in Example 3.

[0063] Then, the body P1 of the inoculated preform was heated for 30 seconds until the surface temperature of the preform reached approximately 110°C (the molding temperature during blow molding). The mouth P2 of the preform was left at room temperature and subjected to the sterilization treatment described later. After a holding time of 5 seconds, it was cooled, and the number of surviving bacteria at each designated inoculated location was measured. Microbial activity was measured by aseptically wiping each designated inoculated area using the swab method, storing the product on standard agar medium at 30°C for one week, and then determining the survival of the attached bacteria using the membrane filter method. The number of trials was 10 (N=10) for each of Examples 1-3 and Comparative Example 1. In the table shown in Figure 7, the presence or absence of surviving bacteria is indicated by the number of samples in which surviving bacteria were confirmed / number of trials. Specifically, if no surviving bacteria were detected in any sample, it is recorded as 0 / 10, and if surviving bacteria were confirmed, the number of samples in which they were detected is shown.

[0064] The various conditions for the sterilization treatment in Examples 1-3 and Comparative Example 1 are as follows.

[0065] [Example 1] In Example 1-1, as shown in Figure 8a, the preform P was rotated (rotated on its own axis) so that the time it took for the preform P to complete one rotation was 0.1 to 1.0 seconds, so that the cumulative illuminance of UV light was uniform across the entire outer surface of the body of the preform P. At the same time, UV light was irradiated onto the outer surface of the body of the preform P from a light source 52a consisting of UV-LEDs installed 20 mm away from the outer surface of the body of the preform P, so that the angle of incidence to the outer surface of the body of the preform P was 0°, thereby sterilizing it. UV irradiance measurements were performed using the "UIT-250" ultraviolet integrated light meter (Ushio Inc.).

[0066] Next, in Example 1-1, with the enclosure member 51b surrounding the upper side of the preform P installed, hydrogen peroxide was sprayed into the inside of the preform P, thereby simultaneously sterilizing the inner surface of the body, the inner surface of the opening, and the outer surface of the opening of the preform P. Specifically, 65 g / h of a 30% hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution was heated to 120°C and vaporized to create a sterilizing fluid medium. This mixture was then mixed with sterile air at 65 NL / min and sprayed towards preform P for a predetermined time so that the temperature at the outlet of the spray nozzle reached 100°C.

[0067] In Example 1-2, as shown in Figure 8b, the light source 52a was positioned so that UV light was also irradiated onto the outer surface of the mouth of the preform P, and the rest was sterilized by irradiating with UV light in the same manner as in Example 1-1.

[0068] Next, in Example 1-2, without installing an enclosure member surrounding the upper side of the preform P, the inner surface of the body and the inner surface of the opening of the preform P were sterilized simultaneously, similar to Example 1-1.

[0069] Based on the test results of Example 1-1, for spore-forming bacteria, UV light irradiation of the outer surface of the body of preform P at an integrated irradiance of 20 mJ / cm² was performed. 2 After performing the above steps, hydrogen peroxide was sprayed onto the inner surface of the body, the inner surface of the mouth, and the outer surface of the mouth of preform P for 3 seconds under the conditions described above. The result showed that no bacteria survived in any location on the inner and outer surfaces of preform P. Furthermore, it was found that spore-forming bacteria could be sterilized in a total of 4 seconds: 1 second of UV irradiation (more precisely, 0.1 to 1 second) on the outer surface of the body, and 3 seconds of drug sterilization on the inner surface of the body, the inner surface of the mouth, and the outer surface of the mouth.

[0070] Furthermore, from the test results of Examples 1-2, when photosterilizing the outer surface of the mouth of preform P against spore-forming bacteria, UV light irradiation should be performed at an integrated illuminance of 50 mJ / cm². 2 It was found that sterilization could be completed by performing the above steps.

[0071] [Example 2] In Example 2-1, as shown in Figure 5, the outer surface of the body of the preform P was sterilized by irradiating it with UV light 1 to 5 times (0.2-1.0 seconds in total) from a xenon flash lamp light source, which was installed 20 mm away from the site where microorganisms (spore-forming bacteria) were inoculated on the outer surface of the body of the preform P, with a flash cycle of 0.2 seconds (5 Hz) set to the angle of incidence to the outer surface of the body of the preform P, so that the cumulative illuminance of UV light on the outer surface of the body of the preform P would be a predetermined value. UV irradiance measurements were performed using the "UIT-250" ultraviolet integrated light meter (Ushio Inc.).

[0072] Next, in Example 2-1, the inner surface of the body, the inner surface of the mouth, and the outer surface of the mouth of the preform P were sterilized with hydrogen peroxide in the same manner as in Example 1-1 described above.

[0073] In Example 2-2, the light source 52a shown in Figure 5 was positioned so that UV light was also irradiated onto the outer surface of the mouth of the preform P, and the rest was sterilized by irradiating with UV light in the same manner as in Example 2-1.

[0074] Next, in Example 2-2, without installing an enclosure member surrounding the upper side of the preform P, the inner surface of the body and the inner surface of the opening of the preform P were sterilized simultaneously, similar to Example 1-1.

[0075] Based on the test results of Example 2-1, for spore-forming bacteria, UV light irradiation of the outer surface of the body of preform P at an integrated irradiance of 20 mJ / cm² was performed. 2 After performing two or more flashes, hydrogen peroxide was sprayed onto the inner surface of the body, the inner surface of the mouth, and the outer surface of the mouth of preform P for 3 seconds under the conditions described above. The result showed that no bacteria survived in any location on the inner or outer surface of preform P. Furthermore, it was found that spore-forming bacteria could be sterilized in a total of 3.4 seconds, consisting of 0.4 seconds (more precisely, 0.4 to 1 second) of UV irradiation to the outer surface of the body, and 3 seconds of drug sterilization to the inner surface of the body, the inner surface of the mouth, and the outer surface of the mouth.

[0076] Furthermore, from the test results of Example 2-2, when photosterilizing the outer surface of the mouth of preform P against spore-forming bacteria, UV light irradiation should be performed at an integrated irradiance of 30 mJ / cm². 2 It was found that sterilization could be completed by performing four or more flashes.

[0077] [Example 3] In Example 3-1, as shown in Figure 4, the preform P was rotated (rotated on its own axis) so that the time it took for the preform P to complete one rotation was 0.1 to 1.0 seconds. At the same time, a CO2 laser light source was placed away from the outer surface of the body of the preform P, and the irradiation spot Ls of the laser beam was scanned in the axial and circumferential directions of the preform in an upward direction. Sterilization was performed by irradiating the outer surface of the body of the preform P with a CO2 laser with a wavelength of 9.3 μm so that the cumulative irradiance of the CO2 laser was uniformly set to a predetermined value. Furthermore, the laser irradiation energy was measured using a power meter (thermopile method) at the time of irradiation, and the measured value was obtained by multiplying the laser energy by the irradiation time. The laser energy density was set to 50 W / cm². 2 That's what I decided.

[0078] Next, in Example 3-1, the inner surface of the body, the inner surface of the mouth, and the outer surface of the mouth of the preform P were sterilized with hydrogen peroxide in the same manner as in Example 1 described above.

[0079] In Example 3-2, using the photosterilizer 52 shown in Figure 4, the laser irradiation spot Ls was scanned upwards so that the CO2 laser irradiated not only the outer surface of the body of the preform P but also the outer surface of the mouth. Furthermore, the laser irradiation spot Ls was scanned downwards so that the CO2 laser irradiated only the outer surface of the mouth. The rest of the preform was sterilized by irradiating it with the CO2 laser in the same manner as in Example 3-1.

[0080] Next, in Example 3-2, without installing an enclosure member surrounding the upper side of the preform P, the inner surface of the body and the inner surface of the opening of the preform P were sterilized simultaneously, similar to Example 1-1.

[0081] From the test results of this Example 3-1, regarding mold, CO2 laser irradiation of the outer surface of the body of preform P with an integrated illuminance of 0.8 mJ / cm² was performed. 2 After performing the above steps, hydrogen peroxide was sprayed onto the inner surface of the body, the inner surface of the mouth, and the outer surface of the mouth of preform P for 2 seconds under the conditions described above. As a result, no bacterial survival was observed at any location on the inner and outer surfaces of preform P. Furthermore, it was found that mold sterilization could be completed in a total of 3 seconds: 1 second (more precisely, 0.1 to 1 second) of CO2 laser irradiation to the outer surface of the body, and 2 seconds of chemical sterilization to the inner surface of the body, the inner surface of the mouth, and the outer surface of the mouth.

[0082] Furthermore, from the test results of Example 3-2, when photosterilizing the outer surface of the opening of preform P against mold, the CO2 laser irradiation should be applied at an integrated illuminance of 1.6 mJ / cm². 2 It was found that sterilization could be completed by performing the above steps.

[0083] [Comparative Example 1] In Comparative Example 1, the outer surface of the body, the inner surface of the body, the inner surface of the mouth, and the outer surface of the mouth of preform P were sterilized with hydrogen peroxide. Specifically, 130 g / h of a 30% hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution was heated and vaporized at 120°C to create a sterilizing fluid medium, which was then mixed with sterile air at 65 NL / min. This mixture was then sprayed onto the inner surface of the mouth and the outer surface of the body of preform P for a predetermined time, so that the temperature at the outlet of the spray nozzle reached 100°C. In this case, the enclosure member 51b used in Examples 1 to 3 was not used, and an enclosure was provided to surround the entire preform P. The outer surface of the preform P was sterilized by ensuring that the sterilizing fluid sprayed onto the inner surface filled the enclosure. In other words, the inner and outer surfaces of the preform P were sterilized simultaneously. Furthermore, the measured hydrogen peroxide gas concentration was 4000 ppm.

[0084] The test results for Comparative Example 1 showed that spore-forming bacteria could be sterilized in 12 seconds at all locations on the inner and outer surfaces of Preform P. In particular, regarding sterilization of the outer surface of the torso, it was found that in Examples 1 and 2, sterilization of spore-forming bacteria could be completed in less than 1 second, whereas in Comparative Example 1, sterilization required 12 seconds to be completed.

[0085] In this embodiment, the preform sterilization method (preform sterilization apparatus) includes a heat treatment to heat the preform P to the molding temperature, a chemical sterilization treatment to spray a sterilizing agent, and a photosterilization treatment to irradiate with germicidal light. The inner surface of the preform P is sterilized by the chemical sterilization treatment, the outer surface of the body of the preform P is sterilized by the photosterilization treatment, and the outer surface of the mouth of the preform P is sterilized by either the chemical sterilization treatment or the photosterilization treatment. The chemical sterilization treatment and the photosterilization treatment are performed after the heat treatment, thereby enabling effective sterilization at low cost and in a short time. In other words, when a disinfectant is used on the inner and outer surfaces of the preform P, there is a problem in that a large amount of disinfectant is used. However, in this embodiment, the outer surface of the body of the preform P, which requires a large amount of disinfectant because the disinfectant easily diffuses from the nozzle that sprays the disinfectant to the surface to be disinfected, is disinfected by photosterilization, and the inner surface (inside) of the preform P, which can be disinfected while retaining the disinfectant inside, is disinfected by chemical disinfection. This makes it possible to achieve efficient disinfection while reducing the amount of disinfectant used. Furthermore, to address the problem of requiring a large amount of disinfectant when disinfecting the outer surface of the body of the preform P with a disinfectant, one possible measure is to cover the entire preform P from the outside with an enclosure member (not shown) and then disinfect the outer surface of the body of the preform P with a disinfectant. However, even in this case, it is necessary to fill the enclosure member (not shown) with disinfectant, which would still require a large amount of disinfectant.

[0086] Furthermore, if the photo-sterilization treatment includes an upward irradiation treatment in which a CO2 laser is irradiated onto the outer surface of the mouth of the preform P from a diagonally downward side, and a downward irradiation treatment in which a CO2 laser is irradiated onto the outer surface of the mouth of the preform P from a diagonally upward side (as in the first to third embodiments), by performing both the upward and downward irradiation treatments on the outer surface of the mouth of the preform P, the germicidal light L is irradiated onto areas that would be in the shadow of the screw threads or neck ring Pb if only one of the treatments were performed, thereby ensuring that the uneven outer surface of the mouth of the preform P is reliably sterilized.

[0087] Furthermore, in the cases described above (the cases of the 1st to 3rd embodiments), by simultaneously irradiating the outer surface of the body (including the bottom surface) and the underside of the neck ring Pb with a CO2 laser in an upward irradiation treatment, the outer surface of the preform P, especially the bottom surface and the underside of the neck ring Pb, can be effectively sterilized, and sterilization can be performed in a short time with fewer steps.

[0088] Furthermore, in photosterilization, when the CO2 laser irradiation spot Ls is formed into a ring shape surrounding the preform P from the outer circumference, and the CO2 laser is irradiated onto the outer surface of the preform P while moving the irradiation spot Ls in the axial direction of the preform P (as in the first embodiment shown in Figure 2), germicidal light can be uniformly irradiated onto the entire outer surface of the preform P without rotating the preform P. Furthermore, in photosterilization, when the CO2 laser irradiation spot Ls is formed into a line extending in the axial direction of the preform P, and the CO2 laser is irradiated onto the outer surface of the preform P while the preform P is rotated around its central axis (as in the second embodiment shown in Figure 3), germicidal light can be uniformly irradiated onto the entire outer surface of the preform P.

[0089] Furthermore, in photosterilization, when the preform P is rotated around its central axis as the axis of rotation, and the CO2 laser irradiation spot Ls is scanned in the axial and / or circumferential direction of the preform P, and the CO2 laser is irradiated onto the outer surface of the preform P (as in the third embodiment shown in Figure 4), the energy density of the irradiation spot can be increased, and the laser light can be uniformly irradiated onto the surface to be sterilized, enabling sterilization in a shorter time.

[0090] Furthermore, in photosterilization, if the preform P is moved along a transport path without rotating, and when the preform P reaches a photosterilization position set on the transport path, germicidal light L is flashed from at least two light sources positioned to surround the preform P that has moved to the photosterilization position from the outer periphery (as in the fourth embodiment shown in Figure 5), the outer surface of the body of the preform P can be effectively sterilized in a short time, and the energy consumption of germicidal light irradiation can be reduced by turning off the germicidal light L when the preform P is away from the photosterilization position.

[0091] Furthermore, in photosterilization, if the preform P is moved along a transport path while rotating, and when the preform P reaches a photosterilization position set on the transport path, the preform P that has moved to the photosterilization position is flashed with germicidal light L from at least one light source installed on the outer circumference (as in the fifth embodiment shown in Figure 6), the outer surface of the body of the preform P can be effectively sterilized in a short time, and the energy consumption of germicidal light irradiation can be reduced by turning off the germicidal light L when the preform P is away from the photosterilization position.

[0092] Furthermore, in the cases described above (the fourth embodiment shown in Figure 5 and the fifth embodiment shown in Figure 6), by irradiating the outer surface of the body of the preform P (including the bottom) with germicidal light L from a diagonally downward side, the outer surface of the preform P, especially the bottom, can be effectively sterilized.

[0093] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various design modifications can be made without departing from the present invention as described in the claims. Furthermore, the configurations of the above embodiments and the modified examples described later can be arbitrarily combined to construct the preform sterilization device 50 (preform sterilization method).

[0094] For example, in the embodiment described above, the preform sterilization device 50 was described as comprising a chemical sterilizer 51 and a photosterilizer 52, etc. However, the preform sterilization device 50 may also be equipped with the above-mentioned sterilization treatment devices, such as a sterilization treatment device that sterilizes by supplying a sterilization fluid such as water (hot water, steam) to the preform P, a sterilization treatment device that sterilizes by irradiating the preform P with an electron beam, or a dust remover that removes dust adhering to the preform P. When water (hot water, steam) is used as the sterilization fluid, the risk of sterilizing agents remaining in the molded container can be eliminated.

[0095] Furthermore, although the above-described embodiment explained that the inner surface of the preform P is sterilized using a chemical sterilizer 51, (instead of the chemical sterilizer 51 described above,) an optional photosterilizer (photosterilization treatment) 53 may be separately provided to sterilize the inner surface of the preform P using photosterilization. This makes it possible to reduce the amount of disinfectant used to zero and to shorten the sterilization time. Possible photodynamic devices 53 for sterilizing the inner surface of the preform P include those positioned outside the preform P and irradiating germicidal light toward the inner surface of the preform P, as shown in Figure 9(a), and those inserted inside the preform P and irradiating germicidal light toward the inner surface of the preform P, as shown in Figure 9(b). Furthermore, the installation location of the photo-sterilizer 53 is the same as that of the chemical sterilizer 51 described above. Furthermore, when the inner surface of the preform P is photosterilized using any photosterilizer (a process that irradiates with germicidal light), examples of germicidal light include infrared lasers and UV light. The preform P may be irradiated with only an infrared laser or only UV light, or both an infrared laser and UV light may be irradiated onto the preform P. When irradiating the inner surface of the preform P with an infrared laser and UV light, the preform P may be irradiated with both the infrared laser and UV light simultaneously, or the preform P may be irradiated with the infrared laser first and then with UV light. As for infrared lasers, any known laser with germicidal effects can be applied, such as CO2 lasers, diode lasers, fiber lasers, YAG lasers, YVO4 lasers, and CO lasers, but CO2 lasers are particularly preferred. Furthermore, it is preferable to use a CO2 laser with a wavelength in the 9 μm band (center wavelength of 9.0 to 9.9 μm) as germicidal light. Furthermore, when irradiating with UV light, it is conceivable to use UV lamps including UV-LEDs or xenon lamps (xenon arc lamps) as light sources.

[0096] Furthermore, the present invention may be described in part or in whole as follows, but is not limited to the following. (Note 1) A preform sterilization method for sterilizing the surface of a preform, This includes a heat treatment in which the preform is heated to a molding temperature, a chemical sterilization treatment in which a disinfectant is sprayed, and a photosterilization treatment in which germicidal light is irradiated. The inner surface of the preform is sterilized by the aforementioned chemical sterilization treatment. The outer surface of the torso of the preform is sterilized by the photosterilization treatment. The outer surface of the mouth of the preform is sterilized by the chemical sterilization treatment or the photosterilization treatment. A preform sterilization method characterized in that the aforementioned chemical sterilization treatment and the aforementioned photosterilization treatment are performed after the aforementioned heat treatment. (Note 2) The preform sterilization method according to Appendix 1, characterized in that the outer surface of the mouth of the preform is simultaneously sterilized by a disinfectant sprayed in the disinfectant treatment for sterilizing the inner surface of the preform. (Note 3) A preform sterilization method for sterilizing the surface of a preform, This includes a heat treatment in which the preform is heated to a molding temperature and a photosterilization treatment in which germicidal light is irradiated. The outer surface of the torso of the preform is sterilized by the photosterilization treatment. The outer surface of the opening of the preform is sterilized by the photosterilization treatment. A preform sterilization method characterized in that the photo-sterilization treatment is performed after the heat treatment. (Note 4) The preform sterilization method according to Appendix 3, characterized in that the inner surface of the preform is sterilized by the photosterilization treatment. (Note 5) The preform sterilization method according to any one of the appendices 1 to 4, characterized in that the photosterilization treatment involves irradiating the preform with an infrared laser as the germicidal light. (Note 6) The preform sterilization method according to Appendix 5, characterized in that the infrared laser is a CO2 laser. (Note 7) The preform sterilization method according to any one of Appendix 1 to Appendix 4, characterized in that UV light is irradiated as the germicidal light in the photosterilization treatment. (Note 8) The preform sterilization method according to any one of Appendix 1 to Appendix 4, characterized in that the photosterilization treatment involves irradiating the preform with an infrared laser and UV light as the germicidal light. (Note 9) The preform sterilization method according to Appendix 8, characterized in that the photosterilization treatment involves simultaneously irradiating with an infrared laser and UV light, or irradiating with an infrared laser first and then with UV light. (Note 10) The aforementioned photosterilization treatment is An upward irradiation process is performed in which an infrared laser is irradiated onto the outer surface of the mouth of the preform from an oblique downward side, A downward irradiation process is performed in which an infrared laser is irradiated onto the outer surface of the mouth of the preform from an oblique upward side, A preform sterilization method according to any one of Appendix 1 to Appendix 4, characterized by including the following: (Note 11) The preform sterilization method according to any one of Appendix 1 to Appendix 10, characterized in that the photosterilization treatment includes an upward irradiation treatment in which an infrared laser is irradiated onto the outer surface of the body of the preform from an oblique downward side. (Note 12) The photosterilization treatment is characterized in that the irradiation spot of the infrared laser, which is the germicidal light, is formed into a ring shape surrounding the preform from the outer circumference, and the irradiation is performed on the outer surface of the preform while moving the irradiation spot in the axial direction of the preform, as described in any of the appendices 1 to 4, 10, or 11. (Note 13) The photosterilization treatment is characterized by shaping the irradiation spot of the infrared laser, which is used as the germicidal light, into a line extending in the axial direction of the preform, and irradiating the outer surface of the preform with the infrared laser while rotating the preform around its central axis as the axis of rotation. This is the preform sterilization method according to any one of the appendices 1 to 4, 10, or 11. (Note 14) The photosterilization treatment is characterized in that the preform is rotated with respect to its central axis, and the irradiation spot of the infrared laser, which is used as the germicidal light, is scanned in the axial and / or circumferential direction of the preform, and the infrared laser is irradiated onto the outer surface of the body of the preform, as described in any of Appendix 1 to Appendix 4. (Note 15) The preform sterilization method according to any one of the appendices 1 to 4, characterized in that, in the photosterilization treatment, the preform is moved along a transport path without being rotated, and when the preform reaches a photosterilization position set on the transport path, the preform that has moved to the photosterilization position is flash-irradiated with germicidal light from at least two light sources installed so as to surround the outer periphery. (Note 16) The preform sterilization method according to any one of Appendix 1 to Appendix 4, characterized in that the photosterilization treatment involves moving the preform along a transport path while rotating it, and when the preform reaches a photosterilization position set on the transport path, the preform that has moved to the photosterilization position is flash-irradiated with germicidal light from at least one light source installed on the outer periphery. (Note 17) A preform sterilization device for sterilizing the surface of a preform, The system comprises a heating means for heating the preform to a molding temperature, a chemical sterilization means for spraying a disinfectant, and a photosterilization means for irradiating germicidal light. The chemical sterilization means and the photosterilization means are configured to sterilize the inner surface of the preform by the chemical sterilization means, sterilize the outer surface of the body of the preform by the photosterilization means, and sterilize the outer surface of the mouth of the preform by the chemical sterilization means or the photosterilization means. A preform sterilization apparatus characterized in that the chemical sterilization means and the photosterilization means are installed downstream of the heating means. (Note 19) A preform sterilization device for sterilizing the surface of a preform, The system comprises a heating means for heating the preform to a molding temperature and a photosterilization means for irradiating it with germicidal light. The photosterilization means is configured to sterilize the outer surface of the body of the preform and the outer surface of the mouth of the preform, The preform sterilization apparatus is characterized in that the photo-sterilization means is installed downstream of the heating means. (Note 20) A preform sterilization method for sterilizing the surface of a preform, This includes a heat treatment in which the preform is heated to a molding temperature. A method for sterilizing a preform, characterized in that the inner surface of the preform is sterilized by irradiating it with germicidal light. (Note 21) A preform sterilization device for sterilizing the surface of a preform, The system comprises a heating means for heating the preform to a molding temperature and a photosterilization means for irradiating it with germicidal light. A preform sterilization apparatus characterized in that the photo-sterilization means is configured to sterilize the inner surface of the preform by the photo-sterilization means. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0097] 10. Aseptic filling system 20... Aseptic molding equipment 21 ··· Entrance 22... Blow-molded turret 30... Oven mechanism (heating method) 31 ··· Oven Chamber 32 ··· Heating heater 40 ··· Preform transport mechanism 41 ··· Conveyor 42... Turret 50 ··· Preform sterilization device 51. Chemical sterilizer (chemical sterilization method) 51a ··· Nozzle 51b ··· Enclosure components 52... Photosterilizer (photosterilization means) 52A ··· Upward-facing irradiation section 52B ··· Downward-facing irradiation section 52a... light source 52b... Optical components 53... Photosterilizer (light sterilization means) 60... Filling equipment 61 ··· Filling section 62 ··· Capping section P ··· Preform P1 ··· Preformed torso P2 ··· Preform opening Pa ··· Screw part Pb ··· Neck ring L... Germicidal light Ls ··· Irradiation spot A1 ··· Oven area A2 ··· Transfer Area A3 ··· Molding Area

Claims

1. A preform sterilization method for sterilizing the surface of a preform, This includes a heat treatment in which the preform is heated to a molding temperature, a chemical sterilization treatment in which a disinfectant is sprayed, and a photosterilization treatment in which germicidal light is irradiated. The inner surface of the preform is sterilized by the aforementioned chemical sterilization treatment. The outer surface of the torso of the preform is sterilized by the photosterilization treatment. The outer surface of the mouth of the preform is sterilized by the chemical sterilization treatment or the photosterilization treatment. A preform sterilization method characterized in that the aforementioned chemical sterilization treatment and the aforementioned photosterilization treatment are performed after the aforementioned heat treatment.

2. The preform sterilization method according to claim 1, characterized in that the outer surface of the mouth of the preform is simultaneously sterilized by a disinfectant sprayed in the disinfectant treatment for sterilizing the inner surface of the preform.

3. The preform sterilization method according to claim 1, characterized in that the photosterilization treatment is performed by irradiating with an infrared laser as the germicidal light.

4. The aforementioned infrared laser is CO ２ The preform sterilization method according to claim 3, characterized in that it is a laser.

5. The preform sterilization method according to claim 1, characterized in that UV light is irradiated as the germicidal light in the photosterilization treatment.

6. The preform sterilization method according to claim 1, characterized in that the photosterilization treatment involves irradiating the preform with an infrared laser and UV light as the germicidal light.

7. The preform sterilization method according to claim 6, characterized in that the photosterilization treatment involves simultaneously irradiating with an infrared laser and UV light, or irradiating with an infrared laser first and then UV light.

8. The aforementioned photosterilization treatment is An upward irradiation process is performed in which an infrared laser is irradiated onto the outer surface of the mouth of the preform from an oblique downward side, A downward irradiation process is performed in which an infrared laser is irradiated onto the outer surface of the mouth of the preform from an oblique upward side, A preform sterilization method according to claim 1, characterized by including the following:

9. The preform sterilization method according to claim 1, characterized in that the photosterilization treatment includes an upward irradiation treatment in which an infrared laser is irradiated onto the outer surface of the body of the preform from an oblique downward side.

10. The preform sterilization method according to claim 1, characterized in that the photosterilization treatment involves shaping the irradiation spot of the infrared laser, which serves as the germicidal light, into a ring shape that surrounds the preform from the outer periphery, and irradiating the outer surface of the preform while moving the irradiation spot in the axial direction of the preform.

11. The photosterilization treatment is characterized in that the irradiation spot of the infrared laser as the germicidal light is formed in the shape of a line extending in the axial direction of the preform, and the infrared laser is irradiated onto the outer surface of the preform while the preform is rotated with the central axis of the preform as the axis of rotation.

12. The preform sterilization method according to claim 1, characterized in that, in the photosterilization treatment, the preform is rotated with the central axis of the preform as the axis of rotation, and the irradiation spot of the infrared laser as the sterilizing light is scanned in the axial and / or circumferential direction of the preform, and the infrared laser is irradiated onto the outer surface of the body of the preform.

13. The preform sterilization method according to claim 1, characterized in that, in the photosterilization treatment, the preform is moved along a transport path without being rotated, and when the preform reaches a photosterilization position set on the transport path, the sterilization light is flashed from at least two light sources installed so as to surround the preform that has moved to the photosterilization position from the outer periphery.

14. The preform sterilization method according to claim 1, characterized in that, in the photosterilization treatment, the preform is moved along a transport path while rotating, and when the preform reaches a photosterilization position set on the transport path, the preform that has moved to the photosterilization position is flash-irradiated with germicidal light from at least one light source installed on the outer periphery.

15. A preform sterilization device for sterilizing the surface of a preform, The system comprises a heating means for heating the preform to a molding temperature, a chemical sterilization means for spraying a disinfectant, and a photosterilization means for irradiating germicidal light. The chemical sterilization means and the photosterilization means are configured to sterilize the inner surface of the preform by the chemical sterilization means, sterilize the outer surface of the body of the preform by the photosterilization means, and sterilize the outer surface of the mouth of the preform by the chemical sterilization means or the photosterilization means. A preform sterilization apparatus characterized in that the chemical sterilization means and the photosterilization means are installed downstream of the heating means.

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