Aseptic container treatment device and method for operating an aseptic container treatment device

Abstract

The invention relates to an aseptic container treatment device (1), in particular for aseptically filling containers, comprising at least one first machine part (2) and a second machine part (3) which moves relative to the first machine part (2), wherein at least one liquid barrier device (4) for separating an aseptic machine region (aMB) from a surrounding region (U) is provided between the first and second machine parts (2, 3). According to the invention, the liquid barrier device (4) comprises at least one first annular channel (5) for forming a first liquid chamber (F1) and a second annular channel (6) for forming a second liquid chamber (F2), wherein the first and second liquid chambers (F1, F2) are separated from one another by at least one intermediate wall portion (7) and can be filled with different liquids. Furthermore, at least two separating portions (8, 9) are provided, wherein a first separating portion (8) projects into the first liquid chamber (F1) and a second separating portion (9) projects into the second liquid chamber (F2), wherein the shape and / or arrangement of the separating portions (8, 9) and annular channels (5, 6) is such that, during relative movement of the first and second machine parts (2, 3), the separating portions (8, 9) are movable relative to the annular channels (5, 6).

Description

[0001] Aseptic container treatment device and method for operating an aseptic container treatment device

[0002] The invention relates to an aseptic container treatment device, in particular for the aseptic filling of containers, and a method for operating an aseptic container treatment device.

[0003] Container treatment devices for treating containers are well known, particularly in the beverage industry. Such devices comprise, for example, a machine part that is rotationally driven about a vertical machine axis, wherein a container treatment, for example, in the form of filling or closing the container, is performed on a container moved by the rotationally driven machine part.

[0004] Furthermore, aseptic container treatment devices are also known which have an aseptic machine area in which the containers are treated under aseptic conditions in order to avoid contamination of the containers during container treatment or during the passage of the container through the machine.

[0005] To separate the aseptic machine area from an ambient area in which no aseptic conditions prevail, it is known, inter alia from the documents US 2010 / 0212259 A1 and US 3,799,220 A, to use liquid barrier devices.

[0006] For the sterile separation of the aseptic machine area from the surrounding area, a liquid medium in the form of a sterilant or a disinfectant, for example hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), peracetic acid or similar, can be introduced into the liquid space of the liquid barrier device.

[0007] The disadvantage here is that such media outgas, not only in the aseptic area, but also in the surrounding area where, for example, machine operators are located. Due to the Hazardous Substances Ordinance, maximum workplace concentration values ​​(MAK values) must be observed here, for example, 1.0 ppm for H2O2. To comply with these limits, active air exchange (e.g., by supplying fresh air or similar) is often carried out in areas where operators are present.

[0008] An object of the invention is to provide an aseptic container treatment device and a method for operating an aseptic container treatment device which effectively prevents outgassing of the sterilized product into the surrounding area.

[0009] This object is achieved by an aseptic container treatment device, in particular for the aseptic filling of containers, according to the features of patent claim 1. A corresponding method for operating an aseptic container treatment device is the subject of patent claim 11.

[0010] According to a first aspect, the invention relates to an aseptic container treatment device, in particular for the aseptic filling of containers. The container treatment device comprises at least a first machine part and a second machine part moving relative to the first machine part. Between the first and second machine parts, at least one liquid barrier device is provided for separating an aseptic machine area from a surrounding area. The liquid barrier device comprises at least one first annular channel for forming a first liquid space and a second annular channel for forming a second liquid space. The first and second liquid spaces are separated from one another by at least one intermediate wall section and can be filled with different liquids.Furthermore, at least two separating sections are provided, with a first separating section protruding into the first liquid chamber and a second separating section into the second liquid chamber. The separating section is shaped such that the first and second liquid chambers are separated from one another in a liquid-tight manner up to a maximum fill level (defined by the height of the intermediate wall section). The separating sections preferably protrude far enough into the liquid chambers that the free ends of the separating sections are immersed in the liquids located in the liquid chambers. The shape and / or arrangement of the separating sections and annular channels is such that upon relative movement of the first and second machine parts, the separating sections can be moved relative to the annular channels. The essential advantage of the device is that by providing a pair of annular channels orFluid chambers that can be filled with various fluids can effectively prevent the sterilant from outgassing into the surrounding area. Furthermore, media savings and cost reductions are achieved by saving expensive sterilant by preventing its outgassing into the surrounding area.

[0011] According to an advantageous embodiment, the device can be provided with a common, circular-ring-shaped trough for the first and second annular channels. In other words, both the first and second annular channels can be formed using the one common trough. This allows the first and second annular channels to be realized in the one common trough in a technically simple manner and with a compact design.

[0012] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the trough can be designed as a single piece. By integrating the first and second annular channels into a single trough, installation space is saved, resulting in a more compact design of the device. A one-piece trough also minimizes potential leaks or weak points that could occur when connecting multiple parts. This contributes to improved reliability of the entire device by reducing the risk of failures or leaks. Overall, a one-piece trough enables a more efficient and reliable implementation of the device, resulting in lower overall costs, more compact dimensions, and improved performance.

[0013] According to yet another advantageous embodiment, the trough can have a first, radially inner trough basin running concentrically around a machine axis to form the first annular channel and a second, radially outer trough basin running concentrically thereto to form the second annular channel. In particular, the trough can be provided on the first machine part, in particular arranged in a rotationally fixed manner, which advantageously rotates around the machine axis. The concentric arrangement of the trough basins ensures optimal use of the available space. Furthermore, the concentric arrangement of the trough basins enables a homogeneous rotational movement around the machine axis without the liquids held in the trough basins spilling over. According to one embodiment, the first and second annular channels are circular.This achieves a rotational symmetry that enables a rotational movement of the first machine part relative to the second machine part.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the first and second annular channels are arranged concentrically to a machine axis around which the first or second machine part rotates. This allows the separating sections to be moved within the annular channels during a rotational movement of the first machine part relative to the second machine part.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the first annular channel is provided concentrically and preferably at the same height or substantially at the same height as the second annular channel, and the first annular channel is arranged radially inward relative to the second annular channel. As a result, the first annular channel is circumferentially enclosed by the second annular channel, so that a liquid contained in the second annular channel effectively prevents the liquid medium contained in the first annular channel from escaping into the surrounding area.

[0016] According to yet another advantageous embodiment, the first and second tub basins of the tub are formed with a base section and a first and second side wall section, with a common intermediate wall section being provided between the first and second side wall sections to separate the first tub basin from the second tub basin. This allows the first and second annular channels to be formed in a technically simple manner and in a compact design.

[0017] According to yet another advantageous embodiment, the first annular channel can be laterally delimited by the first side wall section and the common intermediate wall section, and the second annular channel can be laterally delimited by the common intermediate wall section and the second side wall section. The intermediate wall section therefore forms, on the one hand, the outer boundary surface of the first annular channel and, at the same time, also the inner boundary surface of the second annular channel. The dual use of the intermediate wall section by the first and second annular channels leads to a very compact design of the device by saving components and their dual use. According to one embodiment, the first and second annular channels are provided on a stationary machine part. This makes it possible to reduce the rotating masses of the device.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the radially inner first annular channel is provided or designed for filling with a liquid sterilizing agent. This allows the annular channel directly adjacent to the aseptic machine area of ​​the device to be filled with a medium required for aseptic safety.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the radially outer second annular channel is provided or designed for filling with a non-critical liquid, in particular water, that does not form a sterilant, i.e., one not subject to a maximum allowable concentration (MAK) limit. As a result, the liquid sterilant contained in the first annular channel cannot outgas into the surrounding area, since the gas path is blocked by the second separating section that extends into the second annular channel and is immersed in the liquid there.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the first and second separating sections are provided on a common separating device. Advantageously, the second machine part can comprise the first and second separating sections. The second machine part preferably rotates about the machine axis. It can also be provided that the first and second separating sections are formed integrally with one another. This results in a compact design of the device.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the separating device has a cover section from which the first and second separating sections protrude downward. The cover section and the first and second separating sections form a chamber that prevents the sterilized product from escaping into the surrounding area.

[0022] According to one embodiment, at least one level measuring device is provided, by means of which the liquid level in the first and / or second annular channel can be detected. As a result, a drop in the liquid level can be detected, which can lead to a possible cancellation of the blocking effect of the liquid blocking device.

[0023] According to one embodiment, liquid supply devices are provided for the automated supply of a liquid into each of the first and second annular channels. For this purpose, the liquid supply device can advantageously communicate with the fill level measuring device and be configured to regulate the fill level in the respective annular channel to a desired level. This allows the liquid contained in the respective annular channel to be refilled, for example, depending on the fill level in the respective annular channel measured by the fill level measuring device.

[0024] According to one embodiment, means are provided for flowing a gaseous fluid, in particular a sterile or inert gas, through at least one chamber formed above the annular channels. This allows the gaseous fluid to flow through this chamber to prevent contamination or microbial contamination.

[0025] According to one embodiment, a suction device is provided, by means of which a gas is sucked out of the at least one chamber from the aseptic machine area through this chamber to the outside. In other words, a gas present in the aseptic machine area is passed through the chamber to prevent contamination or germ growth. This results in a simple and compact design of the device.

[0026] According to one embodiment, a gas channel is formed in the intermediate wall section for flow through the chamber. This allows gas to be introduced into or extracted from the chamber via the intermediate wall section, which is in particular part of a stationary machine part.

[0027] According to one embodiment, a gas passage opening, in particular a gas passage opening having a check valve, is provided in the first separating section extending into the first annular channel. This allows a high-purity gas to be introduced from the aseptic machine area into the chamber, for example, by applying negative pressure to the chamber. The check valve prevents an undesired gas flow in the opposite direction, i.e., from the chamber toward the aseptic machine area.

[0028] According to a further aspect, the invention relates to a method for operating an aseptic container treatment device, in particular a container treatment device according to the above description, comprising at least a first machine part and a second machine part moving relative to the first machine part. Between the first and second machine parts, at least one liquid barrier device is provided for separating an aseptic machine area from a surrounding area.The liquid barrier device comprises at least one first annular channel for forming a first liquid space and a second annular channel for forming a second liquid space, wherein the first liquid space adjacent to the aseptic machine area is filled with a liquid sterilization medium and the second liquid space remote from the aseptic machine area is filled with a liquid barrier medium, wherein at least one pair of separating sections is provided and the outgassing of the sterilization medium into the surrounding area is blocked by the separating sections and the barrier medium accommodated in the second liquid space.

[0029] According to a preferred embodiment of the method, liquid H2O2 is used as the sterilization medium and / or water, in particular sterile water, is used as the barrier medium.

[0030] According to a preferred embodiment of the method, the liquid level in the first and / or second annular channel is determined by a level measuring device. The level measuring device can be a level sensor that provides information about the level in the respective annular channel, for example, capacitively, resistively, etc. Alternatively, the level measurement can also be carried out by applying negative pressure to a chamber formed in the dual-chamber siphon.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment of the method, the sterilization medium and / or the barrier medium can be supplied automatically by one or more liquid supply devices depending on the liquid fill level in the first and / or second annular channel. This allows the liquid contained in the respective annular channel to be refilled, for example, depending on the fill level in the respective annular channel measured by the fill level measuring device.

[0032] According to a preferred embodiment of the method, a chamber formed above the annular channels is flowed through by a gaseous fluid, in particular a sterile or inert gas. This gaseous fluid can be a sterile or inert gas. This allows the gaseous fluid to flow through this chamber to prevent contamination or microbial contamination.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment of the method, a gaseous fluid flows through the at least one chamber by suctioning a gas from the aseptic machine area through this chamber. This results in a simple and compact design of the device, since a gas present in the aseptic machine area can be used to flow through the chamber.

[0034] According to a preferred embodiment of the method, the liquid level in the respective annular channel is detected by applying a negative pressure to a chamber formed above the annular channels. This can be done alternatively or in addition to the use of level sensors.

[0035] For the purposes of the invention, "sterilant" or "sterilization medium" refers to a liquid medium that has a sterilizing and / or disinfecting effect. Sterilants are understood to include, in particular, liquids such as hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid, or similar.

[0036] The term “aseptic” in the sense of the invention is used synonymously with “highly pure” or “germ-free” or “sterile” or essentially “germ-free” or “sterile”.

[0037] For the purposes of the invention, “container” means any container, in particular bottles, cans, cups, etc., each made of metal, glass and / or plastic, preferably PET (polyethylene terephthalate).

[0038] The term “essentially” in the sense of the invention means deviations from the exact value by a maximum of + / - 10%, preferably by a maximum of + / - 5%, and / or deviations in the form of changes that are insignificant for the function.

[0039] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments and figures. In the figures: Fig. 1 shows, by way of example and in a roughly schematic manner, a device for treating containers with a liquid barrier device in the form of a double-chamber siphon;

[0040] Fig. 2 shows, by way of example, the liquid barrier device according to Fig. 1 with an automated fill level control and monitoring system;

[0041] Fig. 3 shows an example of an embodiment of a liquid barrier device with means for flowing a high-purity gas through the chambers formed in the liquid barrier device;

[0042] Fig. 4 shows an example of an embodiment of a liquid barrier device with a suction device for level control in a chamber of the liquid barrier device;

[0043] Fig. 5 shows, by way of example, a further embodiment of a liquid barrier device with means for flowing through the chambers formed in the liquid barrier device with a high-purity gas which is supplied via the separating device;

[0044] Fig. 6 shows, by way of example, a further embodiment of a liquid barrier device with means for flowing through the chambers formed in the liquid barrier device with a high-purity gas which is supplied via the trough; and

[0045] Fig. 7 shows, by way of example and in a roughly schematic manner, a further embodiment variant of a device for treating containers with two liquid barrier devices.

[0046] Where appropriate, identical reference numerals are used in the figures for identical or equivalently functioning elements of the invention. Furthermore, for the sake of clarity, only those reference numerals are shown in the individual figures that are necessary for the description of the respective figure. Furthermore, the invention is shown in the figures only as a schematic view to explain its operation. In particular, the representations in the figures serve only to explain the basic principle of the invention.

[0047] In Figure 1, reference numeral 1 designates a container treatment device, in particular for the aseptic filling of containers of a rotating design. The device has a first machine part 2 and a second machine part 3, which are shown only partially and roughly schematically in Figure 1. One of the machine parts 2, 3 can be designed as a machine part that is driven to rotate about the machine axis MA, i.e. this machine part is driven in rotation, with the preferably vertically aligned machine axis MA forming the axis of rotation. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the second machine part 3 in particular can form the driven in rotation. Furthermore, the first machine part 2 is preferably a stationary machine part, i.e. the first machine part 2 is not moved in rotation during container treatment. Thus, during container treatment, the second machine part 3 is moved relative to the first machine part 2.It is understood that the first machine part 2 can also form the moving machine part.

[0048] The device 1 forms an aseptic machine area aMB in which container processing, such as filling and / or closing, takes place. This aseptic machine area aMB is separated from a surrounding area U by wall sections 2.1 or other structural features.

[0049] To prevent a direct connection between the aseptic machine area aMB and the ambient area U, at least one liquid barrier device 4 is provided in the transition area between the first and second machine parts 2, 3. This liquid barrier device 4 is designed as a double siphon seal. The liquid barrier device 4 has a first and a second annular channel 5, 6, wherein the first annular channel 5 forms a first liquid space F1 and the second annular channel 5 forms a second liquid space F2. The liquid spaces F1, F2 are designed as liquid chambers open at the top and are fluidically separated from one another by at least one intermediate wall section 7, in such a way that up to a certain fill level within the liquid spaces F1, F2, no exchange can take place between the liquids accommodated in these liquid spaces F1, F2.The device 1 advantageously has a common, circular-ring-shaped trough 10 for the first and second annular channels 5, 6. As can be seen in particular from Figure 1, the trough 10 can be formed in one piece and have a first, radially inner trough basin WB1 running concentrically around the machine axis MA to form the first annular channel 5 and a second, radially outer trough basin WB2 running concentrically thereto to form the second annular channel 6. The first trough basin WB1 forms the first liquid space F1 with the first annular channel 5, and the second trough basin WB2 forms the second liquid channel F2 with the second annular channel 6.

[0050] The annular channels 5, 6 are preferably circular in shape and are preferably arranged concentrically around the machine axis MA. The first annular channel 5 forms a radially inner annular channel, and the second annular channel 6 circumferentially surrounds the first annular channel 5. In other words, the first and second fluid chambers F1, F2 are arranged concentrically, with the first fluid chamber F1 being circumferentially surrounded by the second fluid chamber. The annular channels 5, 6 are formed in particular on the stationary, non-rotatably moving first machine part 2.

[0051] In the illustrated embodiment, the annular channels 5, 6 are formed in a common, preferably one-piece trough 10, which is formed by a base section 10.3 and first and second side wall sections 10.1, 10.2. The side wall sections 10.1, 10.2 protrude upwards from the base section 10.3, so that the trough 10 is U-shaped and open at the top, with a liquid receiving area formed inside the trough 10. This liquid receiving area is divided into the two liquid spaces F1, F2 by the intermediate wall section 7, which also protrudes upwards from the base section 10.3. In more detail, the first and second tub basins WB1, WB2 of the tub 10 are formed with the bottom section 10.3 and the first and second side wall sections 10.1, 10.2, wherein between the first and second side wall sections 10.1, 10.2, the common intermediate wall section 7 is provided for separating the first tank basin WB1 from the second tank basin WB2. This forms the annular channels 5, 6, or tank basins WB1, WB2, separated from one another only by the intermediate wall section 7, in the tank 10. In other words, the liquid spaces F1, F2 lie adjacent to one another, separated only by the intermediate wall section 7. The tank 10 with its first and second tank basins WB1, WB2 has, for example, an E-shape (horizontal E) in cross-section.

[0052] The liquid barrier device 4 also has a separating device 11, which is preferably assigned to the second, rotationally moved machine part 3 or provided thereon. The separating device 11 has at least a first and a second separating section 8, 9. The first separating section 8 is arranged such that it projects into the first annular channel 5 or the first liquid chamber F1 formed therein. Analogously, the second separating section 9 is arranged such that it projects into the second annular channel 6 or the second liquid chamber F2 formed therein. The separating sections 8, 9 preferably run parallel or substantially parallel to the intermediate wall section 7 or the side wall sections 10.1, 10.2. The fill levels in the first and second liquid chambers F1, F2 are selected such that the free ends of the separating sections 8, 9 are immersed in the liquid present in the respective liquid chamber F1, F2.

[0053] The separating device 11 further comprises a cover section 11.1, which, for example, runs parallel or substantially parallel to the base section 10.3 or is aligned horizontally. This cover section 11.1 spans the tub 10 at least partially in the region of the intermediate wall section 7, but in particular completely from the radially inner first side wall section 10.1 to the radially outer second side wall section 10.2. The separating sections 8, 9 protrude from the underside of this cover section 11.1. The cover section 11.1 is preferably designed as an annular, in particular circular, plate. The separating sections 8, 9 form annular separating walls that protrude from above into the respective liquid spaces F1, F2 from the cover section 11.1 arranged above the tub 10. The distance of the cover section 11.1 to the base section 10.3 of the tank 10 and the height of the dividing sections 8, 9 are selected such that the free ends of the dividing walls 8, 9 are immersed in the liquid present in the respective liquid chamber F1, F2, but are still spaced from the bottom section 10.3. The dividing walls 8, 9 thus form immersion walls which, by immersing themselves in the respective liquids, prevent gas exchange through the liquid barrier device 4 between the aseptic machine area aMB and the surrounding area U.

[0054] As shown in Figure 1, the separating device 11 is guided above the tub 10 without contact, i.e., the separating device 11 or the separating sections 8, 9 do not touch the tub 10 or the intermediate wall section 7. As a result, the liquid barrier device 4 further enables a preferably friction-free relative movement of the first and second machine parts 2, 3.

[0055] A first chamber 11.2, a second chamber 11.3, and a third chamber 11.4 are formed between the separating device 11 and the tank 10. The first chamber 11.2 is a gas-tight chamber that is laterally delimited between the separating sections 8, 9. The top side of the first chamber 11.2 is delimited by the cover section 11.1 and the bottom side by the fill levels of the liquids. The second chamber 11.3 is a chamber that is preferably open towards the surrounding area U and is delimited on one side by the second separating section 9, on the other side at least partially by the second side wall section 10.2, and on the top side by the cover section 11.1. The third chamber 11.4 is a chamber that is preferably open towards the aseptic machine area aMB and is delimited on one side by the first separating section 8 and on the other side at least partially by the first side wall section 10.1 and is limited at the top by the cover section 11.1.

[0056] Between the side wall sections 10.1, 10.2 and the cover section 11.1, gaps or gaps Z1, Z2 can be provided in such a way that an exchange of gases between the third chamber 11.4 and the aseptic machine area aMB can take place via the gap Z1 and an exchange of gases between the second chamber 11.3 and the surrounding area U can take place via the gap Z2.

[0057] In particular, the first liquid chamber F1 of the liquid barrier device 4 can be filled with a sterilizing medium, for example, with liquid hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), peracetic acid, or other liquids with a sterilizing effect. Advantageously, the second liquid chamber F2 of this liquid barrier device 4, however, is filled with a barrier medium, in particular sterile water. Thus, the liquid barrier device 4 is filled with at least two different liquids, namely with the sterilizing medium in the first liquid chamber F1 adjacent to the aseptic machine area aMB, in order to prevent microbial contamination of the aseptic machine area aMB.The barrier medium contained in the second liquid space F2, which does not form a sterilant, effectively prevents the sterilization medium from outgassing into the surrounding area U, since the gas path from the first chamber 11.2 or from the area above the first liquid space F1 to the surrounding area U is blocked by the second separating section 9 immersed in the liquid contained in the second liquid space F2.

[0058] As can be seen from Figure 7, the container treatment device 1 can also have two liquid barrier devices 4 as explained above, namely an upper liquid barrier device 4' located radially outwardly of the machine axis MA and a lower liquid barrier device 4" located radially inwardly of the machine axis MA. The upper and lower liquid barrier devices 4', 4" are designed, in their mutual interaction, to seal the aseptic machine area aMB, for example the aseptic filling zone for the aseptic filling of containers with a liquid filling material, from an ambient area.For this purpose, the first liquid chamber F1 of the upper liquid barrier device 4' can be filled with a sterilizing medium, for example, liquid hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), peracetic acid, or other liquids with a sterilizing effect, while the second liquid chamber F2 of the upper liquid barrier device 4', in contrast, is filled with a barrier medium, in particular, sterile water. Mirroring this, in the lower liquid barrier device 4", the second liquid chamber F2 can be filled with a sterilizing medium, for example, liquid hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), peracetic acid, or other liquids with a sterilizing effect, while the first liquid chamber F1 of the lower liquid barrier device 4" is filled with a barrier medium, in particular, sterile water.Thus, in the embodiment variant shown in Figure 7, it is also ensured that the liquid space adjacent to the aseptic machine area aMB is filled with the sterilization medium to prevent contamination of the aseptic machine area aMB. The liquid space adjacent to the surrounding area U, in which the barrier medium is accommodated, effectively prevents outgassing of the sterilization medium into the surrounding area U, as described above in connection with Figure 1.It can also be provided that the first liquid space F1 of the upper liquid barrier device 4' is fluidically connected to the second liquid space F2 of the lower liquid barrier device 4" via a pipe system not shown in detail and / or that the second liquid space F2 of the upper liquid barrier device 4' is fluidically connected to the first liquid space F1 of the lower liquid barrier device 4" via a pipe system not shown in detail.

[0059] In order to ensure the effectiveness of the liquid barrier device 4 during operation of the device 1, at least one fill level measuring device 12 is provided, as is exemplified in Figure 2. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the fill level measuring device 12 is formed by at least two fill level sensors 12.1, wherein a first fill level sensor 12.1 is provided for measuring the fill level in the first liquid chamber F1 and a second fill level sensor 12.2 is provided for measuring the fill level in the second liquid chamber F2. The fill level sensors 12.1, 12.2 can be arranged or designed in such a way that they enable a fill level measurement in the respective liquid chamber F1, F2. In particular, the fill level sensors 12.1, 12.2, it can be determined whether the fill level of the liquid in the respective liquid space F1, F2 reaches at least a minimum fill level, at which it is ensured that the respective free ends of the first and second separating sections 8, 9 are at least partially immersed in the liquid, so that the gas path between the chambers 11.2, 11.3, 11.4 is blocked by the respective separating sections 8, 9.

[0060] The fill level measuring device 12, in particular the fill level sensors 12.1, 12.2, can be connected to a higher-level control device (not shown in Figure 2) in order to provide this control device with information about the fill level in the respective liquid chamber F1, F2. To regulate the fill level in the respective liquid chambers F1, F2 or the annular channels 5, 6, liquid supply devices 13 are provided, specifically one liquid supply device 13 for each respective liquid. In the illustrated embodiment, the liquid supply device 13 consists of a pump 13.1, by means of which the respective liquid (water / sterilate) can be supplied to the liquid chamber F1, F2. The pump 13.1 is coupled to the respective liquid chamber F1, F2, for example, via pipes, specifically in the illustrated embodiment via a three-way valve 13.2, by means of which in a first operating state a fluidic coupling is established between the pump 13.1 and the respective liquid space F1, F2 and in a second operating state the respective liquid space F1, F2 can be coupled to a drain in order to drain the liquid from the respective liquid space F2, F2.

[0061] The liquid supply device 13 is preferably coupled to the respective liquid chambers F1, F2 via channels provided in the tub 10, in particular in the bottom section 10.3 of the tub 10. This ensures that both the supply and removal of the respective liquid can take place via a single connection, and secondly, the supply of the liquids via the tub 10 has the advantage that the liquid is supplied via the stationary first machine part 2 and thus no cost-intensive rotary unions are required for the liquid supply. The pumps 13.1 are preferably also coupled to the control device so that, depending on the fill level information provided by the fill level sensors 12.1, 12.2, the pumps 13.1 can preferably be selectively activated in order to be able to regulate the fill level within the liquid chambers F1, F2.

[0062] Figure 3 shows a further embodiment of a liquid barrier device 4, in which a gas flow through the first chamber 11.2 is effected via a suction device 14. As already explained above, ultra-pure conditions prevail in the aseptic machine area aMB. In particular, a ultra-pure atmosphere exists in the aseptic machine area aMB. Ultra-pure gas is extracted from the aseptic machine area aMB via the suction device 14 and passed through the first chamber 11.2 formed in the liquid barrier device 4 in order to prevent contamination of the first chamber 11.2 or the liquids held in the annular channels 5, 6.

[0063] In order to introduce the high-purity gas from the aseptic machine area aMB into the first chamber 11.2, a gas passage opening 8.1 is provided in the first separating section 8. This gas passage opening 8.1 can be provided in particular in an upper region of the first separating section 8, for example directly below the cover section 11.1 or adjacent to this cover section 11.1. Furthermore, at least one gas channel 7.1 is provided in the intermediate wall section 7. Preferably, a plurality of gas channels 7.1 are provided, which are distributed circumferentially in the intermediate wall section 7. This gas channel 7.1 is preferably aligned vertically with its longitudinal axis, i.e. it runs through the intermediate wall section 7 from an upper region of the intermediate wall section 7, which lies above the liquid level in the first and second liquid chambers F1, F2, in the direction of the base section 10.3.

[0064] The gas channel 7.1 has a first opening through which this gas channel 7.1 opens into the chamber 11.2. This first opening is above the liquid level in the first and second liquid chambers F1, F2. The gas channel 7.1 is preferably angled so that the first opening is not arranged on the front side of the intermediate wall section 7.1, but rather on the side wall of the intermediate wall section 7.1 that laterally delimits the first annular channel 5. In addition, the gas channel 7.1 has a second opening which is provided on the bottom section 10.3 of the tub 10, i.e. the gas channel 7.1 penetrates the bottom section 10.3. The gas channel 7.1 is connected to the suction device 14 via this second opening. The suction device 14 comprises, for example, a valve 14.1, via which the second opening is connected to a suction pump 14.2. Thus, a gas flow from the aseptic machine area aMB through the first chamber 11 can be directed through the suction device 14.2 and the gas channel 7.1, as indicated by the dashed line in Figure 3.

[0065] As also shown in Figure 3, the suction device 14 can be connected directly to the aseptic machine area aMB, for example through an opening in the wall section 2.1, in order to also ensure a continuous flow of the high-purity gas in this area.

[0066] In addition, means 15 are provided for flowing a gas, preferably also a high-purity gas, through the second chamber 11.3. For example, an opening 10.2.1 is provided in the second wall section 10.2, which delimits the second annular channel 6 on the outside, through which opening the gas can be introduced into the second chamber 11.3. The opening 10.2.1 is arranged above the liquid level provided for the second liquid space. When the gas is supplied through the flow means 15, a gas flow is achieved which is directed outwards, i.e. in the direction of the surrounding area U, and which exits the second chamber 11.3 through the intermediate space Z2, as indicated by the dashed line in Figure 3.

[0067] Figure 4 shows a further embodiment of a container treatment device 1 according to the invention. The essential difference from the previously described embodiments is that a suction device 16 is provided which generates a negative pressure in the region of the first chamber 11.2. This generated negative pressure can be used to check whether the liquid barrier device 4 has the desired blocking effect, i.e. neither an undesired gas flow from the aseptic machine area aMB via the third chamber 11.4 into the first chamber 11.2 due to an excessively low liquid level in the first annular channel 5 nor an undesired gas flow from the ambient area U via the second chamber 11.3 into the first chamber 11.2 due to an excessively low liquid level in the second annular channel 6 is possible. Measuring means are preferably provided by means of which the negative pressure generated in the first chamber 11.2 by the suction device 16 is measured.If the measurement data provided by the measuring devices indicate a drop in the negative pressure below a threshold value, this is an indication that an undesired gas flow through the first annular channel 5 and / or the second annular channel 6 is possible. In this case, the liquid level in the first annular channel 5 or the second annular channel 6 can be raised by supplying the respective liquid via the liquid supply devices 13.

[0068] In order to determine whether the drop in the negative pressure in the first chamber 11 .2 is caused by an excessively low liquid level in the first liquid space F1 or the second liquid space F2, fill level sensors 12.1 , 12.2 can be provided, by means of which the fill level in the respective liquid space F1 , F2 can be determined.

[0069] The monitoring of the negative pressure or the fill levels and the control of the suction device 16 or the liquid supply devices 13 can be carried out via a control device MS, which is shown roughly schematically in Figure 4.

[0070] Figure 5 shows a further embodiment of the container treatment device 1, in which a high-purity gas, for example filtered via a sterile filter, is fed into the first and second chambers 11.2, 11.3. The high-purity gas is fed, for example, via the cover section 11.1 of the separating device 11 into the respective chamber 11.2, 11.3, for example via openings provided in the cover section 11.1 and controlled by valves. In the first separating section 8, a gas passage opening 8.1 is again provided, which can preferably have a check flap or a non-return valve, so that only a gas flow from the first chamber 11.2 into the third chamber 11.4 is possible, but not a gas flow in the opposite direction.

[0071] For the controlled escape of the high-purity gas added to the chamber 11.3, a labyrinth seal 17 is preferably provided in the intermediate space Z2, i.e., between the cover section 11.1 and the second side wall section 10.2. This labyrinth seal 17 can, for example, be formed by a web 17.1 that engages in a groove 17.2 corresponding to this web 17.1. In the illustrated embodiment, the web 17.1 protrudes from the underside of the cover section 11.1, and the groove 17.2 is provided in the side wall section 10.2. The use of the labyrinth seal 17 makes it possible to reduce the gas flow through the intermediate space Z2. It is understood that the inverse design of the labyrinth seal 17 is also possible. By supplying the high-purity gas into the first and second chambers 11.2, 11.3, a limited volume flow of the gas through the respective chamber 11.2, 11.3 can be generated.Preferably, measuring means are provided for monitoring the overpressure existing in the chambers 11.2, 11.3 or the gas flow through these chambers 11.2, 11.3, so that the blocking effect of the liquid barrier device 4 can be checked during operation of the device 1. In particular, a drop in the overpressure in the chambers 11.2, 11.3 may indicate that the liquid level in the first or second liquid space F1, F2 has dropped, and thus a gas flow through at least one of the annular channels 5, 6 is possible.

[0072] Fig. 6 shows a further embodiment analogous to the previously described embodiment according to Fig. 5. The essential difference to the previously described embodiment is that the supply of the pressurized high-purity gas into the chambers 11.2, 11.3 does not take place on the upper side via the cover section 11.1 of the separating device 11, but on the lower side via the trough 10. This offers the advantage that, when the cover section 11.1 is rotated, rotary feedthroughs for the gas supply can be dispensed with.

[0073] As shown in Figure 6, the high-purity gas is supplied by means of the flow means 15 into the first chamber 11.2 via a gas channel 7.1 provided in the intermediate wall section 7. This gas channel 7.1 can be designed as previously described in connection with Figure 3, so reference is made here to the previous explanations. The high-purity gas can be supplied to the second chamber 11.3 through an opening 10.2.1 provided in the second side wall section 10.2, i.e., again analogous to the embodiment according to Figure 3.

[0074] Furthermore, the statements regarding the embodiment according to Fig. 5 also apply to the embodiment according to Fig. 6. List of reference symbols

[0075] 1 container treatment device

[0076] 2 first machine part

[0077] 2.1 Wall section

[0078] 3 second machine part

[0079] 4, 4', 4" liquid barrier device

[0080] 5 first ring canal

[0081] 6 second ring channel

[0082] 7 Intermediate wall section

[0083] 7.1 Gas duct

[0084] 8 first separation section

[0085] 8.1 Gas passage opening

[0086] 9 second separation section

[0087] 10 tub

[0088] 10.1 first side wall section

[0089] 10.2 second side wall section

[0090] 10.2.1 Opening

[0091] 10.3 Floor section

[0092] 11 Separator

[0093] 11.1 Cover section

[0094] 11 .2 first chamber

[0095] 11.3 second chamber

[0096] 11 .4 Third Chamber

[0097] 12 Level measuring device

[0098] 12.1 Level sensor

[0099] 12.2 Level sensor

[0100] 13 Liquid supply device

[0101] 13.1 Pump

[0102] 13.2 Three-way valve

[0103] 14 Extraction device

[0104] 14.1 Valve

[0105] 14.2 Suction pump

[0106] 15 flow agents

[0107] 15.1 Sterile filter 16 Suction device

[0108] 17 Labyrinth seal

[0109] 17.1 Bridge

[0110] 17.2 Nut aMB aseptic machine area

[0111] F1 first liquid space

[0112] F2 second liquid chamber

[0113] MA Machine axis MS Control device

[0114] U surrounding area

[0115] WB1 first tub basin

[0116] WB2 second tub basin

[0117] Z1 gap / gap Z2 gap / gap

Claims

Patent claims 1. Aseptic container treatment device (1), in particular for the aseptic filling of containers, comprising at least a first machine part (2) and a second machine part (3) moving relative to the first machine part (2), wherein at least one liquid barrier device (4) for separating an aseptic machine area (aMB) from a surrounding area (U) is provided between the first and second machine parts (2, 3), characterized in that the liquid barrier device (4) comprises at least one first annular channel (5) for forming a first liquid space (F1) and a second annular channel (6) for forming a second liquid space (F2), wherein the first and second liquid spaces (F1, F2) are separated from one another by at least one intermediate wall section (7) and can be filled with different liquids, that at least two separating sections (8, 9) are provided,wherein a first separating section (8) projects into the first liquid space (F1) and a second separating section (9) projects into the second liquid space (F2), wherein the shape and / or arrangement of the separating sections (8, 9) and annular channels (5, 6) is such that upon relative movement of the first and second machine parts (2, 3), the separating sections (8, 9) are movable relative to the annular channels (5, 6).

2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the device (1) has a common, circular-ring-shaped trough (10) for the first and second annular channels (5, 6).

3. Device according to claim 2, characterized in that the trough (10) is formed in one piece.

4. Device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the trough (10) has a first, radially inner trough basin (WB1) running concentrically around a machine axis (MA) for forming the first annular channel (5) and a second, radially outer trough basin (WB2) running concentrically thereto for forming the second annular channel (6).

5. Device according to claim 4, characterized in that the first and second tub basins (WB1, WB2) of the tub (10) are formed with a bottom section (10.3) and a first and second side wall section (10.1, 10.2), wherein between the first and second side wall section (10.1, 10.2) a common intermediate wall section (7) is provided for separating the first tub basin (WB1) from the second tub basin (WB2).

6. Device according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the first annular channel (5) is laterally delimited by the first side wall section (10.1) and the common intermediate wall section (7) and the second annular channel (6) is laterally delimited by the common intermediate wall section (7) and the second side wall section (10.2).

7. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one level measuring device (12) is provided, by means of which the liquid level in the first and / or second annular channel (5, 6) can be detected.

8. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one liquid supply device (13) is provided for the automated supply of a liquid into the first and / or second annular channel (5, 6).

9. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second machine part (3) has the first and second separating sections (8, 9).

10. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first and second separating sections (8, 9) are formed integrally with one another.

11. A method for operating an aseptic container treatment device (1), in particular a container treatment device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least a first machine part (2) and a second machine part (3) moving relative to the first machine part (2), wherein at least one liquid barrier device (4) for separating an aseptic machine area (aMB) from a surrounding area (U) is provided between the first and second machine parts (2, 3), characterized in that the liquid barrier device (4) comprises at least one first annular channel (5) for forming a first liquid space (F1) and a second annular channel (6) for forming a second liquid space (F2), wherein the first liquid space (F1) adjacent to the aseptic machine area (aMB) is filled with a liquid sterilization medium and the second liquid space (F2) remote from the aseptic machine area (aMB) is filled with a liquid barrier medium, wherein at least one pair of separating sections (8, 9) is provided and the outgassing of the sterilization medium into the surrounding area (U) is blocked by the separating sections (8, 9) and the barrier medium accommodated in the second liquid space (F2).

12. Method according to claim 11, characterized in that liquid H2O2 is used as the sterilization medium.

13. Method according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that water, in particular sterile water, is used as the barrier medium.

14. Method according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that the liquid level in the first and / or second annular channel (5, 6) is determined by a level measuring device (12).

15. Method according to one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that depending on the liquid fill level in the first and / or second annular channel (5, 6), the sterilization medium and / or the barrier medium is supplied automatically by one or more liquid supply devices (13).

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