Method for operating a container handling system

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for operating a container handling system (1) for handling containers (2) comprising at least one first handling machine (M1) and at least one second handling machine (M2), in which method the containers (2) are transported in a transport direction (TR) from the first handling machine (M1) to the second handling machine (M2) by means of at least one transporter (4) having at least one first and second conveying section (4.1, 4.2), wherein, in the method, a dynamic type change from a first type (A) of container (2) to a second type (B) of container (2) is carried out.

Description

[0001] Method for operating a tank treatment plant

[0002] The invention relates to a method for operating a container treatment plant for treating containers.

[0003] In the beverage industry, such container treatment plants are known to those skilled in the art, comprising at least one first treatment machine and at least one second treatment machine.

[0004] The containers to be treated are transported in one direction from the first treatment machine to the second by means of at least one conveyor and are processed in the treatment machines, for example, sterilized, filled with a liquid, sealed, labeled, or packaged. A person skilled in the art is familiar with a wide variety of container treatment machines for this purpose, such as labeling machines, fillers, cappers, or packers.

[0005] When changing the treatment process for a container of a different type, for example, with a different container geometry and / or a different filling product, numerous changeover operations must be carried out on the container treatment machines for this new container type. Such changeover operations are also known to those skilled in the art as a changeover of container type.

[0006] In the prior art, the treatment machine is emptied, reconfigured, and only then is production restarted with the new container type. These changeover processes are often performed manually, not automatically, and therefore require operator intervention. Furthermore, the conveyors between the first and second treatment machines must be completely emptied. This also necessitates switching off the conveyors between the first and second treatment machines during the changeover. A particular disadvantage of known methods for operating a container treatment system is the time-consuming conveyor changeover process.

[0007] Based on this, the object of the invention is to demonstrate a method for operating a container treatment plant for treating containers, which largely avoids production losses of the plant when changing from containers of a first type to a second type and in particular does not require the transporters to be switched off.

[0008] This problem is solved by a method for operating a container treatment plant for treating containers according to the features of independent claim 1. The dependent claims relate to particularly advantageous embodiments of the invention.

[0009] According to a first aspect, the invention relates to a method for operating a container treatment plant for treating containers with at least one first treatment machine and at least one second treatment machine, in which the containers are transported in a transport direction by means of at least one conveyor with at least one first and second conveying section from the first treatment machine to the second treatment machine.

[0010] In particular, the method according to the invention can be applied in a machine or plant of the beverage industry and can be integrated into a container treatment system for treating beverage containers. Advantageously, the at least one first and / or the at least one second treatment machine can be one for sterilizing containers and / or for filling containers with a liquid, granular, or powdered substance and / or for sealing containers and / or for labeling containers and / or for packaging containers.

[0011] Advantageously, at least one conveyor with at least one first and second conveying section can be a motor-controlled and / or regulated continuous conveyor, for example a belt or chain conveyor.

[0012] Furthermore, it is advantageous that the individual conveying sections are designed to be operated separately and independently of one another. In particular, the individual conveying sections can be operated at the same or different conveying speeds. The individual conveying sections of the conveyor can be controlled and / or regulated independently of one another by a preferably shared control and / or regulating device, depending on a set of product parameters. For this purpose, each conveying section can have a separate motor drive, for example, a servo motor or geared motor, which is connected to the control and / or regulating device.

[0013] In the method according to the invention, a dynamic changeover from a first type of container to a second type of container is carried out. For the purposes of this invention, a container is understood to be both a single container, for example a single bottle, can, or keg, and a container assembly consisting of several individual containers, i.e., a container bundle. For example, the containers of the first type differ from the containers of the second type in terms of the product they contain and / or the container geometry and / or the bundle size and / or the bundle shape. In particular, the first type of container is not identical to the second type of container and must never be mixed with the second type.

[0014] Thus, in the inventive method, prior to the changeover between products, the at least two conveying sections of the conveyor and the first and second treatment machines for treating the containers of the first product are operated with a respective first set of product parameters belonging to the first product. In particular, the first set of product parameters includes, as a product parameter, at least a first conveying speed for the containers of the first product on the at least one conveyor. Therefore, the first conveying speed can also be a speed adjustment value. The first set of product parameters can include product parameters for the first treatment machine and / or the second treatment machine and / or the at least two conveying sections of the at least one conveyor for treating containers of the first product.In particular, the first set of product parameters can include further product parameters for the first type of container, such as the railing width of the conveyor for the first type and / or the acceleration of the containers of the first type on the conveyor. The first set of product parameters can also contain product parameters such as the production output, i.e., the number of containers processed per unit of time, of the first and / or second processing machine for the first type of container, and / or the number of containers of the first type to be processed in the first and / or second processing machine. Specifically, the first set of product parameters can be stored in a memory unit of the control and / or regulating device.

[0015] According to the invention, when changing product types at the end of production or processing, the containers of the first type in the first processing machine are emptied. Based on a signal, the first processing machine is switched to a second set of product parameters belonging to the second type. Based on a first conveying speed, a respective idle time point is determined, indicating when the respective conveying sections of containers of the first type have emptied. At each determined idle time point, the conveying sections are switched to the second set of product parameters. The first conveying speed can be determined by the actual speed measured for the respective conveying section. In other words, the first conveying speed can be the actual speed measured for the respective conveying section.Advantageously, the respective length of the conveying sections can be taken into account to determine the respective idle time point, so that the respective idle time point for the corresponding conveying sections can be determined based on the actual speed and the known length of the respective conveying section. The respective length of the conveying section can be a fixed machine parameter or a parameter stored in the first and / or second set of product parameters. It can also be provided that an idle time point is determined based on the initial conveying speed stored in the respective first set of product parameters.

[0016] The second set of parameters for each type of container also includes, as a parameter, at least a second conveying speed for the containers of the second type on the conveyor. This second conveying speed can be determined from the actual speed for the respective conveying sections. The second set of parameters can also include parameters for the first processing machine and / or the second processing machine and / or the at least two conveying sections of the at least one conveyor for processing containers of the second type. In particular, the second set of parameters can include further parameters for the second type of container, such as the railing width of the conveyor's railings for the second type or the acceleration of the containers of the second type on the conveyor.The second set of product parameters can also contain parameters such as the production output (i.e., the number of containers treated per unit of time) of the first and / or second treatment machine for the second type of container, and / or the number of containers of the second type to be treated in the first and / or second treatment machine. In particular, the second set of product parameters can be stored in a memory unit of the control and / or regulating device.

[0017] Furthermore, after the change of variety, at least the two conveying sections of the conveyor and at least the first treatment machine for treating the containers of the second variety with the second set of variety parameters are operated, and during the dynamic change of variety, the conveying sections of the conveyor are kept continuously in conveying operation.

[0018] The inventive method thus makes it possible to perform a dynamic changeover from a first type to a second type of container, whereby the conveyor is kept in continuous conveying operation throughout the entire changeover process – i.e., it does not need to be stopped. This enables the precise determination of the time at which the conveying sections or the fill level of the conveying section have run dry.

[0019] Depending on the specific idle time or fill level of the conveying sections, the system can switch to the second set of product parameters at each specific point. This switchover occurs during the conveyor's operation. A dynamic changeover from one type of container to a second type of container without interrupting the conveyor's operation is therefore possible. This dynamic changeover enables efficient utilization of the

[0020] Plant capacity is maintained because the conveying operation does not have to be stopped. This helps to maximize the overall performance and efficiency of the tank treatment plant.

[0021] Overall, the described method enables a dynamic changeover of containers in a container treatment plant, in which the conveying sections and the treatment machines are efficiently and seamlessly switched to different sorting parameters without interrupting the conveying operation.

[0022] According to an advantageous embodiment, the determination of the respective idle time points, based on the initial conveying speed stored in the first set of product parameters, can be carried out by calculation in a control and / or regulating unit. For this purpose, the control and / or regulating unit can include a processor unit by which the calculation can be performed. The provision of the control and / or regulating unit enables a precise calculation of the idle time points for the individual conveying sections of the conveyor.

[0023] The control and / or regulating system can be advantageously designed to monitor the conveying operation in real time. This enables dynamic adaptation to changes in the tank treatment system, such as fluctuations in conveying speed, in real time. The control and / or regulating system can also be designed to automatically switch to the second set of grade parameters as soon as the calculated idle time points are reached. This ensures a smooth grade changeover process. Overall, the integration of a control and / or regulating system provides automation and control of the grade changeover process, resulting in efficient and precise operation of the tank treatment system.

[0024] According to another advantageous embodiment, production of the second type of container can be started in the first processing machine when at least the first conveying section, containing containers of the first type, has run dry. Alternatively, production of the second type can be started in the first processing machine immediately after the first conveying section has run dry, thus further maintaining the continuity of the production process. Switching to production of the second type in the first processing machine immediately after the first conveying section has run dry with containers of the first type minimizes downtime in the entire container processing plant. This improves the overall efficiency and productivity of the container processing plant.

[0025] If the conveyor has more than two conveying sections, for example, three, four, five, or more, it can be advantageous to start production of the second type of container in the first processing machine only after the first, second, and / or third conveying section has run dry with containers of the first type. This ensures sufficient buffer space on the conveyor to prevent unwanted mixing of the first and second types of containers.

[0026] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the containers can be conveyed between the first and second processing machines in the transport direction via additional conveying sections of the conveyor, in particular via at least a third, fourth, and fifth conveying section. The use of additional conveying sections allows containers to transfer more smoothly between the first and second processing machines. In particular, the risk of bottlenecks and unwanted build-up of containers along the conveying path is minimized. Furthermore, the conveying speeds of the individual conveying sections can be adjusted individually and separately. This enables finely tuned control of the container flow along the conveying path and optimized synchronization with the product changeover.Including further conveying sections in the overall conveying concept improves the adaptability of the container treatment plant to different requirements and contributes to increased efficiency during the product changeover process.

[0027] According to a further advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that the respective idle time point is determined for each of the conveyor sections. The ability to determine the idle time point individually for each conveyor section enables precise control of the container flow between the first and second processing machines. By individually determining the respective idle time points, it can be avoided that conveyor sections enter idle mode unnecessarily before all containers have passed through the respective conveyor section. Thus, unnecessary waiting times are minimized, and the containers can seamlessly switch between the different conveyor sections without being delayed due to idle times.

[0028] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the signal indicating the end of production or treatment of containers of the first type can be generated and output by the first processing machine. In particular, the first processing machine can generate a signal when the last container of the first type is processed and / or discharged. For example, the signal can also be generated based on detection signals from a sensor device of the first processing machine and forwarded to the control unit. Specifically, the sensor device can be an optical sensor, such as a light barrier, or a camera. Alternatively, the sensor device can also be an inductive sensor. For example, the first processing machine can have the sensor device in the discharge or transfer area of ​​the containers from the first processing machine to the conveyor.According to a further advantageous embodiment, the signal indicating the end of production or processing of containers of the first type can be generated and output when the last container of the first type is discharged from the first processing machine. This allows for a precise determination of the time at which no more containers of the first type remain on the first conveyor section. Preferably, the signal can be generated based on a type parameter from the first type parameter set.

[0029] According to a further advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that, preferably immediately after switching at least the first conveying section to the second set of sorting parameters, the first treatment machine begins producing or treating the containers of the second sorting. This immediate commencement of production or treatment of the containers of the second sorting after switching the first conveying section allows for a seamless transition between the sorting types. Furthermore, the efficient utilization of plant capacity is maximized by the immediate continuation of operation with the second sorting type. Downtime of the treatment machines is also minimized, since production or treatment of the second sorting begins directly after the switchover.The ability to start producing or treating the second type of container directly after the changeover contributes to the flexibility and adaptability of the container treatment plant, especially in environments with frequent changes between different types of containers.

[0030] According to a further advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that, to determine the respective idle time point for each conveying section, a specific initial conveying speed stored in the first set of product parameters is used. The use of individual conveying speeds for each conveying section in the first set of product parameters enables precise control of the different conveying sections of the at least one conveyor. Each conveying section can be controlled and thus adapted independently according to the requirements of the first product type from the containers. The use of individual conveying speeds allows for the precise calculation of the respective idle time points for each conveying section, which contributes to the optimization of the product changeover process by ensuring that the switch to the second set of product parameters occurs at an optimal time.By specifically adjusting the conveying speeds, the container treatment plant can also minimize unnecessary idle times.

[0031] According to a further advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that, after the product changeover, at least the two conveying sections of the conveyor and at least the first and second treatment machines are operated with the respective second product parameter set for treating the containers of the second product type. The conversion of at least the two conveying sections and both treatment machines to the second product parameter set after the product changeover also enables a seamless transition to the production or treatment of the containers of the second product type. The simultaneous conversion of at least the two conveying sections and treatment machines ensures that the container treatment plant continues to operate without significant interruptions. This maintains production continuity and prevents unnecessary downtime of the container treatment plant.

[0032] According to a further advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that, before the changeover, the containers of the first type are conveyed from the first processing machine to the second processing machine, and that after the changeover, the containers of the second type are conveyed from the first processing machine to at least a third processing machine, with the containers of the second type being conveyed at least via the first conveying section of the conveyor. Alternatively, by transferring the containers of the first type from the first to the second processing machine before the changeover and conveying the containers of the second type from the first to the third processing machine after the changeover, production can continue seamlessly during the changeover.The use of a third treatment machine for the second type of containers enables optimal utilization and further capacity increases for the entire container treatment plant. Simultaneous conveying of first-type containers to the second treatment machine and second-type containers to the third allows for the parallel operation of different types on different treatment machines. This also maximizes the overall production capacity of the entire container treatment plant. All of this contributes to an overall improvement in the production performance of the container treatment plant.

[0033] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the containers of the second type can be diverted after the first conveying section via a deflection device and directed onto a conveying branch leading to at least one third treatment machine. Advantageously, the deflection device can be designed as a diverter switch, by means of which the containers are directed after the first conveying section of the conveyor onto the conveying branch leading to the third treatment machine. The deflection device enables targeted routing of the containers of the second type after the first conveying section either to the second or the third treatment machine. The deflection device helps to avoid bottlenecks and congestion of the containers on the conveying path between the container treatment machines. By directing the containers to the appropriate conveying branch, a smooth container flow is ensured.By strategically diverting and guiding the containers onto the correct conveyor line, the downtime of the container treatment machines is minimized even further. The treatment machines can then seamlessly switch to the production of the second type of container, and the treated containers can be conveyed away.

[0034] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the conveyor branch leading to at least one third treatment machine can be provided with several conveyor branch sections. Dividing the conveyor branch into several conveyor branch sections enables a modular design of the conveyor. This allows the container treatment system to be flexibly adapted to different production requirements. Advantageously, each conveyor branch section can be controlled independently by the control unit. This enables precise control over the product changeover and the treatment processes for the containers on their way to the third treatment machine.The design of the conveyor branch leading to at least one third treatment machine, with several conveyor branch sections, can also help to avoid bottlenecks and improve the overall production output of the container treatment plant.

[0035] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the diverting device for redirecting the containers of the second type onto the conveyor branch can be actuated at the point of idling immediately preceding the conveyor section in the direction of transport. Actuating the diverting device at the moment the immediately preceding conveyor section is empty achieves a precise and time-optimized diverting of the containers, further minimizing waiting times and simultaneously maximizing the efficiency of the type changeover. By activating the diverting device as soon as the immediately preceding conveyor section is empty, jams and blockages on the conveyor are avoided. This ensures a continuous flow of containers and prevents bottlenecks in the container handling system.

[0036] According to a further advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that an actual idle time point for at least one, in particular for several or all, of the respective conveying sections and / or conveying branch sections is additionally detected by means of at least one sensor device and compared with the respective idle time points determined by calculation for the respective conveying sections and / or conveying branch sections in the control and / or regulating device, whereby if the actual idle time points deviate from the calculated idle time points, the switch to the respective second set of sorting parameters is adjusted accordingly. In particular, the sensor device can be designed as an optical sensor device, for example as a light barrier, or a camera and be coupled to the control and regulating device via a wired or wireless communication device.Preferably, each conveying section and / or conveying branch section has at least one separate sensor device, each of which is connected to the control and / or regulating device.

[0037] The use of sensor devices, such as optical or inductive sensors or cameras, enables precise recording of the respective idle time point for each conveying section and branch section. This provides accurate data for controlling the product changeover. Continuous monitoring of the idle time points allows deviations to be detected quickly. The control system can then immediately make the necessary adjustments to adapt to the switchover to the second product parameter set.

[0038] By equipping each conveying section and / or branch section with at least one separate sensor, individual monitoring and control can be achieved for each section, further increasing the system's accuracy and flexibility. It is advantageous for each conveying section and branch section to have a sensor connected to the control unit at both its inlet and outlet. In other words, each conveying section or branch section has two sensors: one at its inlet and the other at its outlet, enabling the monitoring of incoming and outgoing containers.

[0039] According to a further aspect, the present invention relates to a container treatment plant for treating containers with at least one first treatment machine and at least one second treatment machine, wherein the containers can be transported in a transport direction by means of at least one conveyor with at least one first and second conveying section from the first treatment machine to the second treatment machine, and wherein the container treatment plant has a control and / or regulating device which is configured to carry out a method according to the preceding description.

[0040] Further developments, advantages, and possible applications of the invention will also become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments and from the figures. All features described and / or illustrated are, individually or in any combination, fundamentally the subject matter of the invention, irrespective of their compilation in the claims or their cross-reference. The content of the claims is also incorporated into the description.

[0041] The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments shown in the figures. The figures show:

[0042] Figs. 1 - 5 show, by way of example and in a highly simplified manner, an exemplary embodiment of a container treatment plant for different process steps of the inventive method for operating a container treatment plant; and

[0043] Fig. 6 shows, by way of example and in a highly simplified form, another embodiment of a container treatment plant for carrying out the inventive method for operating a container treatment plant.

[0044] For identical or similarly functioning elements of the invention, identical reference numerals are used in the figures, where appropriate. Furthermore, for the sake of clarity, only those reference numerals necessary for describing the respective figure are shown in the individual figures. The invention is also presented in the figures only as a schematic view to illustrate its operation. In particular, the illustrations in the figures serve only to explain the fundamental principle of the invention. For the sake of clarity, not all components of the device are shown.

[0045] Figures 1 to 5, indicated by reference numeral 1, show a highly simplified exemplary embodiment of a container treatment plant for carrying out the inventive method for operating this container treatment plant 1. Figure 6 shows a further embodiment of the container treatment plant 1 for carrying out the inventive method. In particular, components and assembly groups of the container treatment plant 1 are shown and described only in the context of Figure 1. However, it is expressly pointed out that all explanations given in connection with Figure 1 also apply to Figures 2 to 6.

[0046] Figure 1 shows in more detail the container treatment system 1 for treating containers 2, comprising at least one first treatment machine M1 and at least one second treatment machine M2. For example, the first treatment machine M1 can be a filling machine for filling the containers 2 with liquid material, and the second treatment machine M2 can be a labeling machine. In particular, the container treatment system 1 shown in Figure 1 is operated according to the inventive method and is therefore configured to carry out the inventive method.

[0047] As also shown in Figure 1, containers 2 are transported in a transport direction TR from the first treatment machine M1 to the second treatment machine M2 by means of at least one conveyor 4 with at least one first and second conveying section 4.1, 4.2, in Figure 1 with five conveying sections, i.e., additionally a third conveying section 4.3, a fourth conveying section 4.4 and a fifth conveying section 4.5. According to the invention, however, the conveyor 4 has at least two conveying sections 4.1, 4.2.

[0048] In the method according to the invention, a dynamic product changeover from a first product type A from containers 2 to a second product type B from containers 2 is carried out. As an example, shown in Figure 1, the conveyor 4 with its first to fifth conveying sections 4.1 ... 4.5 is designed as a motor-driven and / or regulated continuous conveyor, as a belt conveyor. Here, the individual conveying sections 4.1 ... 4.5 are designed to be operated separately and independently of one another. In particular, the individual conveying sections 4.1 ... 4.5 can be operated at the same or different conveying speeds. The individual conveying sections 4.1 ... 4.5 of the conveyor 4 are controlled and / or regulated independently of one another by a preferably common control and / or regulating device SE, depending on a set of product parameters, in particular a first set of product parameters SA and / or a set of product parameters SB.

[0049] As can also be seen from Figure 1, each conveying section 4.1 ...4.5 has a separate motor drive MA1 ... MA5, for example a servo motor or geared motor, which is connected to the control and / or regulating device SE.

[0050] In more detail, the first conveying section 4.1 has a first motor drive MA1, the second conveying section 4.2 a second motor drive MA2, the third conveying section 4.3 a third motor drive MA3, the fourth conveying section 4.4 a fourth motor drive MA4, and the fifth conveying section 4.5 a fifth motor drive MA5, all of which are connected to the control and / or regulating unit SE. The first and second processing machines M1 and M2 are also connected to the control and / or regulating unit SE. The control and / or regulating unit SE is designed to control and / or regulate the conveyor 4 and / or the two processing machines M1 and M2.

[0051] Furthermore, in the embodiment shown in Figure 1, each conveying section 4.1 ... 4.5 has two sensor devices 6. The sensor devices 6 are designed as optical sensors, for example as light barriers, or cameras, and are coupled to the control unit SE, for example, via wired or wireless connections. The sensor devices 6 are designed to detect the actual speed of the respective conveying section 4.1 ... 4.5. In more detail, in the embodiment shown in Figure 1, each of the conveying sections 4.1 ... 4.5 has a sensor device 6 connected to the control unit SE at its respective inlet EL and outlet AL. The inlet EL and AL are only shown as examples in the first conveying section 4.1. Similarly, the conveying branch sections can each have a sensor device 6 at their inlet EL and outlet AL.

[0052] As already mentioned, in the inventive method a dynamic change of grade from a first grade A of containers 2 to a second grade B of containers 2 is carried out by means of such a container treatment plant 1.

[0053] As can be seen particularly in Figure 1, before the changeover, the conveying sections 4.1 ... 4.5 of the conveyor 4 and the first and second treatment machines M1, M2 are operated to treat the containers 2 of the first grade A with a respective first grade parameter set SA belonging to the first grade A. The first grade parameter set SA and also a second grade parameter set SB are stored in a storage unit 8 of the control and / or regulating device SE.

[0054] According to the invention, at the end of production or treatment of the containers 2 of the first type A in the first treatment machine M1, the first treatment machine M1 is switched to a second type parameter set SB belonging to the second type B based on a signal, and a respective idle time point is determined based on a first conveying speed. This idle time point indicates when the respective conveying sections 4.1 ... 4.5 of containers 2 of the first type A have emptied, and at each determined idle time point, the conveying sections 4.1 ... 4.5 are switched to the corresponding second type parameter set SB. Furthermore, after the type change (see Figure 5), at least the conveying sections 4.1 ... 4.5 of the conveyor 4 and at least the first treatment machine M1 are operated with the respective second type parameter set SB for treating the containers 2 of the second type B.During the dynamic product changeover, the conveying sections 4.1 ...4.5 of the conveyor 4 are kept in continuous conveying operation.

[0055] The determination of the respective idle running times of conveying sections 4.1 ... 4.5, based on the first conveying speed stored in the first grade parameter set SA, is advantageously carried out by calculation in the control unit SE. For this purpose, the control unit SE has a processor unit CPU by which the calculation is performed.

[0056] As can be seen in Figure 2, the production of containers 2 of the second type B in the first processing machine M1 can be started when at least the first conveying section 4.1 of the conveyor 4 has run empty of containers 2 of the first type A. However, as can be seen particularly in Figure 3, it is also advantageous to start the production of containers 2 of the second type B in the first processing machine M1 only when the first and second conveying sections 4.1 and 4.2 of the conveyor 4 have run empty of containers 2 of the first type A. This is because, as can be seen in Figures 1 to 6, the containers 2 are conveyed in the transport direction TR between the first and second processing machines M1 and M2 via further conveying sections 4.3, 4.4 and 4.5 – in addition to at least the first and second conveying sections 4.1 and 4.2 – of the conveyor 4. For each of the further conveying sections 4.3, 4.4 and 4.5, a different conveying section can be used.5 of the carrier 4 the respective idle time point is determined and / or calculated.

[0057] Advantageously, the signal indicating the end of production or treatment of containers 2 of the first type A is generated and output by the first treatment machine M1. Specifically, the first treatment machine M1 can generate a signal when the last container 2 of the first type A is processed and / or discharged. The signal can be generated based on detection signals from a sensor device 10 of the first treatment machine M1 and forwarded to the control unit SE. Specifically, the sensor device 10 of the first treatment machine M1 can be designed as an optical sensor device, for example, a light barrier, or a camera. For example, the first treatment machine M1 can have the sensor device 10 in the discharge or transfer area of ​​the containers 2 from the first treatment machine M1 to the conveyor 4. Thus, the signal indicating the end of production or treatment can be generated by the first treatment machine M1.The end of treatment for containers 2 of the first type A is also generated and output when the last container 2 of the first type A is discharged from the first treatment machine M1.

[0058] According to an advantageous aspect of the method, an actual idle time point for at least one, in particular for several or for all of the respective conveying sections 4.1...4.5 and / or conveying branch sections 12.1...12.3 can additionally be recorded by means of at least one sensor device 6, 10 and compared with the respective idle time points determined by calculation for the respective conveying sections 4.1...4.5 and / or conveying branch sections 12.1...12.3 in the control and / or regulating device SE, wherein if there is a deviation of the actual idle time points from the calculated idle time points, the switch to the second grade parameter set SB is adjusted accordingly.

[0059] Alternatively or cumulatively, preferably immediately after switching at least the first conveying section 4.1 of the conveyor 4 to the second grade parameter set SB, the first treatment machine M1 can begin producing or treating the containers 2 of the second grade B.

[0060] It is also advantageous to use a respective first conveying speed stored in the first grade parameter set SA for each of the conveying sections 4.1...4.5 to determine the respective idle time point.

[0061] Alternatively or cumulatively, at least the two will be present after the change of variety.

[0062] Conveyor sections 4.1 and 4.2 of the transporter 4 and at least the first and second treatment machine M1 , M2 for treating the containers 2 of the second grade B with the second grade parameter set SB are operated.

[0063] As can be seen in the embodiment shown in Figure 6, before the change of product type, the containers 2 of the first type A can be conveyed from the first treatment machine M1 to the second treatment machine M2, and after the change of product type, the containers 2 of the second type B can be conveyed from the first treatment machine M1 to at least a third treatment machine M3, wherein the containers 2 of the second type B are conveyed at least via the first conveying section 4.1 of the conveyor 4.

[0064] Here, the containers 2 of the second type B can be diverted after the first conveying section 4.1, or in the embodiment shown in Figure 6 at the outlet of the third conveying section 4.3, via a deflecting device 14 and directed onto a conveying branch 12 leading to at least one third processing machine M3. Advantageously, the deflecting device 14 can be designed as a diverting switch, by means of which the containers 2 are directed after the first conveying section 4.1, or in the embodiment shown in Figure 6 at the outlet of the third conveying section 4.3, of the conveyor 4 onto the conveying branch 12 leading to the third processing machine M3.

[0065] As also shown in Figure 6, the conveyor branch 12 leading to at least one third treatment machine M3 can have several conveyor branch sections, here three conveyor branch sections 12.1, 12.2, 12.3. Advantageously, the diverting device 14 for diverting the containers 2 of the second type B onto the conveyor branch 12 is actuated at the idle time point determined for the conveyor section 4.1 ... 4.5 immediately preceding the diverting device 14 in the transport direction TR.

[0066] The invention has been described above using exemplary embodiments. It is understood that numerous modifications or adaptations are possible without departing from the underlying inventive concept.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Method for operating a container treatment plant (1) for treating containers (2) with at least one first treatment machine (M1) and at least one second treatment machine (M2), wherein the containers (2) are transported in a transport direction (TR) by means of at least one conveyor (4) with at least one first and second conveying section (4.1, 4.2) from the first treatment machine (M1) to the second treatment machine (M2), wherein in the method a dynamic change of type from a first type (A) of containers (2) to a second type (B) of containers (2) is carried out, wherein - before the change of type, at least the two conveying sections (4.1 , 4.2) of the conveyor (4) and the first and second treatment machine (M1 , M2) are operated to treat the containers (2) of the first type (A) with one of the respective first type parameter sets (SA) belonging to the first type (A), - wherein, at the end of production of the containers (2) of the first type (A) in the first treatment machine (M1), the first treatment machine (M1) is switched to a second type parameter set (SB) belonging to the second type (B) based on a signal, and based on a first conveying speed, a respective idle time point is determined, which indicates when the respective conveying sections (4.1, 4.2) of containers (2) of the first type (A) have run empty, and wherein at the respective determined idle time point, the conveying sections (4.1, 4.2) are each switched to the corresponding second type parameter set (SB). - wherein after the change of type at least the two conveying sections (4.1 , 4.2) of the conveyor (4) and at least the first treatment machine (M1 ) for treating the containers (2) of the second type (B) are operated with the respective second type parameter set (SB), - and wherein, during the dynamic product changeover, the conveying sections (4.1 , 4.2) of the transporter (4) are kept in continuous conveying operation.

2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the first conveying speed is based on the first set of sorting parameters (SA) stored in the respective first set of sorting parameters (SA). The determination of the respective idle time points is carried out by means of calculation in a control and / or regulating device (SE).

3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the production of containers (2) of the second type (B) in the first treatment machine (M1) is started when at least the first conveying section (4.1) with containers of the first type (A) has run empty.

4. Method according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the containers (2) are conveyed during transport between the first and second treatment machine (M1 , M2) in the transport direction (TR) further via additional conveying sections (4.3...4.5) of the conveyor (4), in particular via at least a third, fourth and fifth conveying section (4.3...4.5).

5. Method according to claim 4, characterized in that the respective idle time point is determined for each of the further conveying sections (4.3...4.5) of the conveyor (4).

6. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the signal about the end of production of containers (2) of the first type (A) is generated and output by the first treatment machine (M1 ).

7. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the signal about the end of production of containers (2) of the first type (A) is generated and output when the last container (2) of the first type (A) is discharged from the first treatment machine (M1 ).

8. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that after switching at least the first conveying section (4.1 ) to the second grade parameter set (SB) the first treatment machine (M1 ) begins producing the containers (2) of the second grade (B).

9. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, to determine the respective idle time point for each of the conveying sections (4.1 ...4.5), a respective first conveying speed stored for the respective conveying section (4.1...4.5) in the first grade parameter set (SA) is used.

10. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that after the change of type, at least the two conveying sections (4.1 ...4.5) of the conveyor (4) and at least the first and second treatment machine (M1 , M2) are operated for treating the containers (2) of the second type (B) with the respective second type parameter set (SB).

11. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that before the change of product type, the containers (2) of the first type (A) are conveyed from the first treatment machine (M1) to the second treatment machine (M2) and that after the change of product type, the containers (2) of the second type (B) are conveyed from the first treatment machine (M1) to at least a third treatment machine (M3), wherein the containers (2) of the second type (B) are conveyed at least via the first conveying section (4.1) of the conveyor (4).

12. Method according to claim 11, characterized in that the containers of the second type (B) are deflected after the first conveying section (4.1) via a deflecting device (14) and directed onto a conveying branch (12) leading to the at least one third treatment machine (M3).

13. Method according to claim 12, characterized in that the conveying branch (12) leading to the at least one third treatment machine (M3) has several conveying branch sections (12.1 ... 12.3).

14. Method according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that the deflection device (14) for diverting the containers (2) of the second type (B) onto the conveyor branch (12) to the one for which the deflection device (14) is in the transport direction (TR) immediately preceding funding section (4.1 ...4.5) determined The idle time point is activated.

15. Method according to one of claims 2 to 14, characterized in that an actual idle time point for at least one, in particular for several or for all of the respective conveying sections (4.1 ... 4.5) and / or conveying branch sections (12.1 ... 12.3) is additionally detected by means of at least one sensor device (6, 10) and compared with the respective idle time points determined by calculation for the respective conveying sections (4.1 ... 4.5) and / or conveying branch sections (12.1 ... 12.3) in the control and / or regulating device (SE), wherein, in the event of a deviation of the actual idle time points from the calculated idle time points, the switch to the respective second grade parameter set (SB) is adjusted accordingly.

16. Container treatment plant (1 ) for treating containers (2) with at least one first treatment machine (M1 ) and at least one second treatment machine (M2), wherein the containers (2) can be transported in a transport direction (TR) by means of at least one conveyor (4) with at least one first and second conveying section (4.1 , 4.2) from the first treatment machine (M1 ) to the second treatment machine (M2), and wherein the container treatment plant (1 ) has a control and / or regulating device (SE) configured to carry out a method according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 15.

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