Product preparation unit for a filling machine and with refractometer for detecting brix

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a preparation unit (1) for feeding a filling machine (10) with a pourable product 5 (P) comprising at least one main component (X) and an aromatic component. The preparation unit (1) includes a second component tank (3) for containing a second component (Y), a product tank (5) distinct from the second component tank (3) and configured for fluid communication with a delivery line (8), a feeding line (11) for feeding the product into the product tank (5), and a brix detector (32) for detecting the brix of the second component (Y) being inputted from the second component tank (3) into the feeding line (11). The brix detector 10 (32) is a refractometer brix detector.

Description

FILLIG MACHINE FOR WITH PRODUCT PREPARATION UNIT WITH REFRACTOEMETER FOR DETECTING BRIX FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present disclosure relates to preparation units and filling machines for pourable products, and more particularly to a preparation unit, fdling apparatus, and method for efficiently filling containers with carbonated or non-carbonated beverages while recovering and reusing components during the depressurization process and / or for efficiently monitoring the mixing ration between a first component and a second component of the product.BACKGROUND

[0002] Filling machines for carbonated beverages are widely used in the beverage industry to package products such as soft drinks, sparkling water, and beer. These machines typically combine a main liquid component, such as water, with flavoring syrups or concentrates to create the final product. The mixture is then carbonated and dispensed into containers such as bottles or cans.

[0003] In conventional filling systems, the process involves preparing the product mixture in a tank, carbonating it if required, and then delivering it to filling devices that dispense the product into containers. After filling, the containers often undergo a depressurization step to remove excess gas and stabilize the product before sealing.

[0004] One challenge in filling carbonated beverages is managing the loss of product during the depressurization process. When containers are depressurized, a small amount of liquid product is typically expelled along with the excess gas. This expelled liquid is usually discarded, resulting in waste and reduced efficiency.

[0005] Another issue in beverage filling operations is maintaining consistent product quality, particularly when using varying concentrations of flavor syrups or sweeteners. The ratio of syrup to water must be carefully controlled to ensure the desired taste and nutritional content of the final product. This becomes especially challenging when dealing with diet or low-calorie beverages, where precise measurement of low-concentration ingredients is critical.

[0006] Furthermore, the start-up phase of filling operations often involves purging cleaning fluids from the system before production can begin. This process can lead to significant waste of ingredients, particularly expensive flavor syrups, as the system stabilizes and achieves the correct mixing ratios.

[0007] It has been appreciated that a preparation unit is needed that overcomes one or more of these problems.SUMMARY

[0008] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description.

[0009] In a first aspect, a Preparation Unit for feeding a filling machine with a pourable product is provided. The product comprises a first main component, like for example water, and a second component, like for example a syrup. The Preparation Unit includes a second component tank for containing the second component, and a product tank which is distinct from the second component tank and which is configured for fluid communication with a delivery line for delivering the product to at least one filling device, and wherein the second component tank is configured for fluid communication with a depressurization line. The depressurization line is configured for depressurizing each filled container after the pourable product has been delivered by extracting at least a gas and a part of the delivered pourable product, so that the second component tank recovers at least said part of delivered pourable product during depressurization.

[0010] This configuration allows for the recovery of a part of the pourable product accidentally evacuated from the container during depressurization. By inserting this recovered part into the second component tank rather than the product tank, the impact on overall product quality is minimized while optimizing sustainability of the preparation unit, thanks to the recovery of the product during depressurization.

[0011] The Preparation Unit may further comprise a gas-liquid separator configured for being operatively interposed between the depressurization line and the second component tank, the separator being configured for separating at least partially the gas from the pourable product, for directing said part towards the second component tank.

[0012] The inclusion of a gas-liquid separator minimizes the amount of gas inserted into the second component tank, allowing for efficient recovery of the second component during depressurization while optimizing the quality of the second component to be used in future product preparation.

[0013] The gas-liquid separator may be configured for separating the gas from the pourable product, for directing only said part towards the second component tank.

[0014] This configuration ensures that only the liquid portion of the recovered product is directed to the second component tank, further enhancing the quality control of the recovered material.

[0015] The Preparation Unit may comprise a recovery line operatively interposed between the separator and the second component tank for transferring at least said part from the separator to the second component tank.

[0016] The dedicated recovery line ensures efficient transfer of the separated liquid portion to the second component tank, maintaining system hygiene and product quality.

[0017] The Preparation Unit may comprise a feeding line for feeding the product into the product tank, a first modulating valve for influencing the flow rate of the second component being inputted from the second component tank into the feeding line, a brix detector for detecting the brix of the second component being inputted, and an automatic control system for automatically controlling said flow rate by means of said first modulating valve, as a function of the detected brix.

[0018] This configuration allows for precise control of the mixing ratio between the second component and the main component, maintaining desired product characteristics while accommodating the recovery of second component during depressurization.

[0019] The Preparation Unit may comprise a transfer line for transferring the second component from the second component tank into the feeding line, with the flow of the second component being along said transfer line.

[0020] The dedicated transfer line ensures controlled and hygienic transfer of the second component from its tank to the feeding line.

[0021] The first modulating valve may operate along said transfer line.

[0022] Positioning the modulating valve along the transfer line allows for precise control of the second component flow at the point of introduction to the feeding line.

[0023] The brix detector may operate along said transfer line.

[0024] Locating the brix detector along the transfer line enables real-time monitoring of the second component's characteristics as it enters the feeding line.

[0025] The brix detector may be a refractometer brix detector.

[0026] Using a refractometer brix detector allows for highly accurate monitoring of the brix content, particularly beneficial for diet or low-brix second components where precise measurement is crucial for maintaining product quality and reducing waste during production startup.

[0027] The refractometer allows an accurate monitoring of the brix of the material which is being inputted from the second component tank. In case the second component is a syrup, the second component can be a regular second component, with typically has a higher brix content, or a diet or dietary second component, which typically has a lower brix component. In case the second component is a dietary component, it is more difficult to accurately monitor the brix content of the second component, and therefore it is more difficult to monitor the brix of the material which is being inputted from the second component tank. This could result in a less accurate capability of the preparation unit to monitor the actual brix of the second component being inputted for creating the product, leading to a lower capacity of the preparation unit in controlling the mixing ratio between the first component and the second component in a manner such as to guarantee the desired brix of the product. The refractometer allows a very accurate detection and monitoring of the brix of the material which is being inputted from the second component tank, to enhance the capacity of the preparation unit to guarantee the desired brix of the product comprising the first component and the second component, also in case the second component is a dietary product. Therefore, in addition, the same capabilities for controlling the recipe of the final product can be available to the operators also in case the second component is a dietary second component, in particular with reference the physical and / or chemical parameters which are related to the second component.

[0028] Moreover, in this way, the enhanced capability of the preparation unit to monitor the brix of the material which is being inputted from the second component tank, allows the preparation unit to waste less amount of second component during the start up of the preparation unit, at the beginning of production, in case the second component is a diet or dietary second component. In fact, typically, at the beginning of production, the cleaning fluid which has been used to clean the complete circuit for conveying the first component and the second component to the product tank and for cleaning at least the second component tank, must be completely or at least partially discharged. Without a proper monitoring capability by the preparation unit on the brix of material which is being inputted from the second component tank, the ability of the preparation unit to control the first modulating valve in such a way to ensure a proper mixing ratio for production is low, so that a certain amount of second component must be discharged without having been used in production. With an increased capability of the preparation unit in monitoring the brix of the material being inputted from the second component tank, the preparation unit is better enabled to control the first modulating valve in a proper manner also during the start up phase, to ensure a correct mixing ratio and reduce the waste of second component. Therefore, a preparation unit, and a filling apparatus are provided with an increased sustainability and an optimal quality of production, with wider range of second components.

[0029] The Preparation Unit may comprise a flow rate detector for detecting said flow rate, said automatic control system being configured for automatically controlling said flow rate by means of said first modulating valve, as a function of the detected brix, on the basis of the detected flow rate and by determining a target flow rate on the basis of the detected brix.

[0030] This comprehensive monitoring and control system enhances the accuracy of flow rate control to achieve the desired mixing ratio while accommodating the recovery of second component during depressurization.

[0031] The product may be a carbonated product.

[0032] Adapting the system for carbonated products extends its utility to a wide range of popular beverages while maintaining efficient component recovery and quality control.

[0033] The Preparation Unit may comprise a carbon dioxide tank for inputting carbon dioxide into the feeding line so that the product is carbonated, the preparation unit preferably comprising a second modulating valve for influencing the flow rate of the carbon dioxide being inputted into the feeding line.

[0034] This configuration allows for precise control of carbonation levels in the final product, enhancing versatility and product quality.

[0035] In a second aspect, a Filling apparatus is provided. The Filling apparatus includes a preparation unit according to any one or more of the previous aspects and said filling machine.

[0036] Integrating the preparation unit with the filling machine creates a comprehensive system for efficient beverage production and packaging while maintaining product quality and sustainability through component recovery.

[0037] The filling machine may comprise a plurality of filling devices for filling at least partially simultaneously a plurality of respective containers, a rotary fluid distributor, said delivery line for delivering the product from the product tank to the filling devices, and said depressurization line being configured for depressurizing each filled container.

[0038] This configuration allows for high-volume production while maintaining the benefits of component recovery and quality control throughout the filling process.

[0039] The depressurization line may comprise a plurality of upstream depressurization line sectors, each for a respective filling device and each being operatively interposed between the distributor and the respective filling device, and a downstream depressurization line sector, which is operatively interposed between the rotary distributor and the separator, the apparatus comprising a discharge and a discharge line which is operatively interposed between the separator and the discharge, for discharging the gas which has been separated by the separator.

[0040] This detailed depressurization system ensures efficient recovery of product components while safely managing separated gases, enhancing both sustainability and operational safety.

[0041] The filling machine may be rotative and comprise a carousel on which the filling devices are angularly distributed and on which the rotative distributor operates.

[0042] A rotative filling machine with angularly distributed filling devices on a carousel allows for continuous, high-speed operation while maintaining the benefits of the preparation unit's component recovery and quality control features.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0043] Embodiments of the invention will be described, by way of example, with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0044] FIG. 1 illustrates a layout of a preparation unit and a filling device, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0045] FIG. 2 illustrates a layout of a filling apparatus comprising a preparation unit and a filling machine, according to an embodiment.

[0046] Common reference numerals are used throughout the figures to indicate similar features.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] A Preparation Unit 1 is provided for feeding a filling machine 10 with a pourable product P. The pourable product P comprises at least one first main component and a second aromatic component. The main component may be a carbonated liquid such as sparkling water, soft drink, or beer. Alternatively, the main component may be a non-carbonated liquid such as still water or a juice. The aromatic component may be, for example, a syrup, a sweetener, or a flavor.

[0048] The filling machine 10 is configured for filling containers B with the pourable product P. The containers B may take various forms, such as glass bottles, PET bottles, kegs, cans, or jars. The filling machine 10 comprises at least one filling device 101 for delivering the pourable product P into each container B.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 1, the Preparation Unit 1 comprises a second component tank 3 for containing the second component. The second component in the second tank 3 is indicated with Y. The Preparation Unit 1 also comprises a product tank 5 which is distinct from the second component tank 3. The product in the product tank 5 is indicated with P. The product tank 5 is configured for being in fluid communication with a delivery line 8. The delivery line 8 is configured for delivering the product from the product tank 5 to the at least one filling device 101 of the filling machine 10.

[0050] The Preparation Unit 1 is designed to prepare the pourable product P by combining the main component and the aromatic component in the product tank 5. The prepared pourable product P is then delivered to the filling machine 10 through the delivery line 8 for filling the containers B.

[0051] The Preparation Unit 1 comprises a depressurization line 7 configured for being in fluid communication with the second component tank 3. FIG. 1 illustrates the layout of the Preparation Unit 1 including the depressurization line 7 and its connection to the second component tank 3.

[0052] The depressurization line 7 is configured for depressurizing a filled container B after the pourable product P has been delivered into the container B. During the depressurization process, the depressurization line 7 extracts at least a gas and a part of the delivered pourable product P from the filled container B.

[0053] The second component tank 3 is configured to recover at least the part of the delivered pourable product P during the depressurization of the container B. This recovery system allows for the reuse of a portion of the pourable product P that would otherwise be wasted during the depressurization process.

[0054] The configuration of the depressurization line 7 in fluid communication with the second component tank 3 provides several advantages. Firstly, the system minimizes product waste by recovering a portion of the pourable product P that is extracted during depressurization. Secondly, the recovered portion of the pourable product P, which contains the second component, can be reintroduced into the production process through the second component tank 3.

[0055] This recovery and reuse system contributes to the overall sustainability of the Preparation Unit 1. By reducing waste and allowing for the reuse of extracted product, the system optimizes resource utilization and minimizes the environmental impact of the filling process.

[0056] The depressurization and recovery system operates in conjunction with the filling device 101 of the filling machine 10. After the filling device 101 delivers the pourable product P into a container B, the depressurization line 7 activates to extract gas and a small amount of product from the filled container B. This extracted mixture is then directed to the second component tank 3 for recovery and potential reuse.

[0057] The Preparation Unit 1 comprises a gas-liquid separator 9. FIG. 1 illustrates the layout of the Preparation Unit 1 including the gas-liquid separator 9 and its position within the system.

[0058] The gas-liquid separator 9 is configured for being operatively interposed between the depressurization line 7 and the second component tank 3. This configuration allows the gas-liquid separator 9 to process the mixture extracted from filled containers B during the depressurization process.

[0059] The gas-liquid separator 9 is designed to separate at least partially the gas from the pourable product P that is extracted through the depressurization line 7. By performing this separation, the gas-liquid separator 9 enables the recovery of a portion of the pourable product P while removing excess gas.

[0060] In some examples, the gas-liquid separator 9 is configured to separate the gas from the pourable product P more completely, directing only the liquid part of the extracted mixture towards the second component tank 3. This configuration maximizes the recovery of the pourable product P while minimizing the introduction of gas into the second component tank 3.

[0061] The Preparation Unit 1 further comprises a recovery line 91. The recovery line 91 is operatively interposed between the gas-liquid separator 9 and the second component tank 3. The recovery line 91 serves the purpose of transferring at least part of the separated pourable product P from the gas-liquid separator 9 to the second component tank 3.

[0062] The arrangement of the gas-liquid separator 9 and the recovery line 91 within the Preparation Unit 1 creates an efficient system for recovering and reusing a portion of the pourable product P that would otherwise be lost during the depressurization process. This system contributes to the overall efficiency and sustainability of the filling process by reducing waste and allowing for the reintroduction of recovered product into the production cycle.

[0063] The gas-liquid separator 9, in conjunction with the depressurization line 7 and the recovery line 91, forms a closed loop system that connects the filling device 101, the gas-liquid separator 9, and the second component tank 3. This closed loop allows for continuous operation of the filling machine 10 while simultaneously recovering and recycling a portion of the pourable product P.

[0064] The Preparation Unit 1 comprises a feeding line 11 for feeding the product into the product tank 5. The feeding line 11 is configured to transport the main component and the second component from their respective sources to the product tank 5 where they are combined to form the pourable product P. The preparation unit 1 comprises a first component tank 2 which containers the main component, which is indicated with X.

[0065] A transfer line 33 is provided for transferring the second component Y from the second component tank 3 into the feeding line 11. The transfer line 33 allows for controlled introduction of the second component Y into the main flow of the feeding line 11.

[0066] Along the transfer line 33, a first modulating valve 31 is positioned to influence the flow rate of the second component Y being inputted from the second component tank 3 into the feeding line 11. The first modulating valve 31 operates along the transfer line 33 and is configured to regulate the flow rate of the second component Y.

[0067] A brix detector 32 is also positioned along the transfer line 33. The brix detector 32 is configured for detecting the brix of the second component Y being inputted from the second component tank 3 into the feeding line 11. The brix detector 32 therefore can provide real-time measurements about the sugar content or concentration of the second component Y as it flows through the transfer line 33.

[0068] The Preparation Unit 1 further includes an automatic control system for automatically controlling the flow rate of the second component Y by means of the first modulating valve 31, as a function of the brix detected by the brix detector 32. This automatic control system ensures that the desired mixing ratio between the main component and the second component Y is maintained in the product tank 5.

[0069] The second component Y may be a regular second component with a higher brix content, or a diet or dietary second component with a lower brix content. The brix detector 32 allows for accurate monitoring of the brix content regardless of the type of second component Y being used. A second brix detector can be present upstream the second component tank 3. The first refractometer 32 can also be used also for enchaining the monitoring of the brix of the second component in the second component tank 3, to correct the detection made by the second refractometer.

[0070] A flow rate detector 34 may also be included in the Preparation Unit 1 for detecting the flow rate of the second component Y. The automatic control system may use the data from both the brix detector 32 and the flow rate detector 34 to more precisely control the first modulating valve 31, ensuring the correct amount of second component Y is added to achieve the desired product composition.

[0071] At the beginning of production, the Preparation Unit 1 uses cleaning fluid to clean the complete circuit for conveying the main component X and the second component Y to the product tank 5 and for cleaning at least the second component tank 3. This cleaning process ensures proper hygiene and product quality before production begins.

[0072] The combination of the feeding line 11, transfer line 33, first modulating valve 31, brix detector 32, and automatic control system 6 allows the Preparation Unit 1 to maintain precise control over the composition of the pourable product P. This system enables consistent product quality while accommodating variations in the brix content of the second component Y, whether it is a regular or diet formulation.

[0073] The Preparation Unit 1 comprises the brix detector 32 which is positioned along the transfer line 33. The brix detector 32 is configured for detecting the brix of the second component Y being inputted from the second component tank 3 into the feeding line 11. In an example, the brix detector 32 is a refractometer brix detector.

[0074] The refractometer brix detector 32 allows for accurate monitoring of the brix of the material which is flowing along the transfer line 33. This capability is particularly beneficial when the second component Y is a diet or dietary second component, which typically has a lower brix content compared to regular second components.

[0075] The refractometer brix detector 32 enables more precise detection and monitoring of the brix of the material flowing along the transfer line 33. This enhanced monitoring capability allows the PreparationUnit 1 to maintain better control over the mixing ratio between the first component and the second component Y, helping to ensure the desired brix of the final product.

[0076] The improved brix monitoring provided by the refractometer brix detector 32 can also contribute to reducing waste during the start-up phase of the Preparation Unit 1. At the beginning of production, when transitioning from cleaning fluid to the actual product components, the refractometer brix detector 32 allows for more accurate detection of when the desired brix levels are reached. This can result in less second component Y being discharged without having been used in production.

[0077] By utilizing a refractometer brix detector 32, the Preparation Unit 1 can achieve improved accuracy in brix measurement, particularly for low -brix or diet formulations of the second component Y. This enhanced accuracy contributes to maintaining consistent product quality and reducing waste during production processes.

[0078] The Preparation Unit 1 comprises a flow rate detector 34 for detecting the flow rate of the second component Y. The flow rate detector 34 is positioned along the transfer line 33, allowing for precise monitoring of the second component Y as it flows from the second component tank 3 to the feeding line 11.

[0079] The automatic control system of the Preparation Unit 1 is configured for automatically controlling the flow rate of the second component Y by means of the first modulating valve 31. This control is based on the detected brix from the brix detector 32, the detected flow rate from the flow rate detector 34, and a determined target flow rate. The target flow rate is calculated by the automatic control system based on the detected brix, ensuring that the desired mixing ratio between the main component and the second component Y is maintained in the product tank 5.

[0080] For carbonated products, the Preparation Unit 1 comprises a carbon dioxide tank 4 for inputting carbon dioxide Z into the feeding line 11. The carbon dioxide tank 4 is connected to the feeding line 11, allowing for the introduction of carbon dioxide Z into the product mixture. This configuration enables the production of carbonated pourable products P in the product tank 5.

[0081] A second modulating valve 41 is provided for influencing the flow rate of the carbon dioxide Z being inputted into the feeding line 11. The second modulating valve 41 operates in conjunction with the carbon dioxide tank 4, allowing for precise control over the amount of carbonation in the final product.

[0082] The combination of the flow rate detector 34, the automatic control system, the carbon dioxide tank 4, and the second modulating valve 41 allows the Preparation Unit 1 to produce both non-carbonated and carbonated pourable products P with consistent quality and composition. For carbonated products, the system can adjust the level of carbonation by controlling the flow of carbon dioxide Z through the second modulating valve 41.

[0083] The ability to produce carbonated products expands the range of pourable products P that can be prepared by the Preparation Unit 1 and filled by the filling machine 10. This versatility allows for the production of various types of carbonated beverages, such as soft drinks or sparkling water, in addition to noncarbonated products.

[0084] A filling apparatus 20 comprises the preparation unit 1 and the filling machine 10. The filling machine 10 is configured as a rotative machine and includes a carousel 102. The carousel 102 supports a plurality of filling devices 101, which are angularly distributed around the circumference of the carousel 102. This configuration allows for simultaneous filling of multiple containers B with the pourable product P.

[0085] The filling machine 10 further includes a rotary fluid distributor 103. The rotary fluid distributor 103 operates on the carousel 102, facilitating the distribution of the pourable product P from the preparation unit 1 to the individual filling devices 101 as the carousel 102 rotates. The rotation of carousel 102 is indicated by arrow R in Figure 2.

[0086] The preparation unit 1 of the filling apparatus 20 includes the second component tank 3, the product tank 5, and the carbon dioxide tank 4. These components are connected through various lines to form a fluid distribution system. The feeding line 11 connects to the product tank 5, allowing for the introduction of the prepared pourable product P into the filling machine 10.

[0087] The delivery line 8 connects the product tank 5 to the filling devices 101 through the rotary fluid distributor 103. The delivery line 8 comprises an upstream delivery line sector 81 connecting to the rotary fluid distributor 103, and multiple downstream delivery line sectors 82, each connecting from the rotary fluid distributor 103 to a respective filling device 101.

[0088] The depressurization line 7 is configured for depressurizing each filled container B after the pourable product P has been delivered. The depressurization line 7 extracts at least a gas and a part of the delivered pourable product P from the filled container B. The second component tank 3 is in fluid communication with the depressurization line 7, allowing for the recovery of at least the extracted part of the delivered pourable product P during the depressurization process.

[0089] The gas-liquid separator 9 is operatively interposed between the depressurization line 7 and the second component tank 3. The recovery line 91 connects the gas-liquid separator 9 to the second component tank 3, facilitating the transfer of the separated liquid portion of the extracted product.

[0090] The transfer line 33 connects the second component tank 3 to the feeding line 11. Along the transfer line 33, the first modulating valve 31, the brix detector 32, and the flow rate detector 34 are positioned to control and monitor the flow of the second component Y.

[0091] For carbonated products, the carbon dioxide tank 4 is connected to the feeding line 11 through the second modulating valve 41, allowing for controlled carbonation of the pourable product P.

[0092] This configuration of the filling apparatus 20 enables efficient and controlled filling of containers B with the pourable product P, while also providing a system for recovering and reusing a portion of the product that would otherwise be lost during the depressurization process.

[0093] The filling apparatus 20 comprises a delivery line 8 and a depressurization line 7, each having specific configurations to facilitate efficient product delivery and container depressurization. FIG. 1 illustrates the layout of these lines within the filling apparatus 20.

[0094] The delivery line 8 comprises an upstream delivery line sector 81 and a downstream delivery line sector 82. The upstream delivery line sector 81 is operatively interposed between the product tank 5 and the rotary fluid distributor 103. This sector serves to transport the pourable product P from the product tank 5 to the rotary fluid distributor 103.

[0095] A downstream delivery line sector 82 extends from the rotary fluid distributor 103 to each respective filling device 101. The downstream delivery line sector 82 allows for the distribution of the pourable product P from the rotary fluid distributor 103 to individual filling devices 101, enabling simultaneous filling of multiple containers B.

[0096] The depressurization line 7 similarly comprises a multiple upstream depressurization line sectors 72 and a downstream depressurization line sector 71. Each upstream depressurization line sector 72 is operatively interposed between a respective filling device 101 and the rotary fluid distributor 103. This configuration allows for the extraction of gas and a portion of the pourable product P from filled containers B at each filling device 101.

[0097] The downstream depressurization line sector 71 is operatively interposed between the rotary fluid distributor 103 and the gas-liquid separator 9. The downstream depressurization line sector 71 channels the extracted mixture of gas and pourable product P from the rotary fluid distributor 103 to the gas-liquid separator 9 for processing.

[0098] The filling apparatus 20 further includes a discharge 73 and a discharge line 74. The discharge line 74 is operatively interposed between the gas-liquid separator 9 and the discharge 73. This arrangement allows for the removal of separated gas from the system, which has been extracted during the depressurization process and separated by the gas-liquid separator 9.

[0099] The apparatus may comprise an electrical conductivity detector for detecting the conductivity of the first component X. The control system may be configured for controlling said flow rate also as a function of the detected conductivity of the first component, in order for the control system to take into account also apparent brix of the main component to target the desired brix of the final product.

[0100] The configuration of these line sectors within the filling apparatus 20 enables a continuous and efficient process of filling containers B with the pourable product P, depressurizing filled containers B, and recovering a portion of the pourable product P while safely discharging separated gas. This arrangement contributes to the overall efficiency and sustainability of the filling process by minimizing product waste and ensuring proper handling of extracted gases.

[0101] The preparation unitl may include at least one further modulating valve for regulating the flow of the main component being inputted from the main component tank 2 into the feeding line 11, and or one further flow rate detector for detecting the flow rate of main component. Each flow rate detector can be for example a flow meter.

[0102] Features of any of the examples or embodiments outlined above may be combined to create additional examples or embodiments without losing the intended effect. It should be understood that thedescription of an embodiment or example provided above is by way of example only, and various modifications could be made by one skilled in the art. Furthermore, one skilled in the art will recognise that numerous further modifications and combinations of various aspects are possible. Accordingly, the described aspects are intended to encompass all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Preparation Unit (1) for feeding a filling machine (10) with a pourable product (P) comprising at least one first main component (X), like for example water, and a second aromatic component, like for example syrup, a sweetener or a flavor, the filling machine (10) being configured for filling containers (B) with said pourable product and comprising at least one filling device (101) for delivering the pourable product into each container (B), wherein the preparation unit (1) comprises:a second component tank (3) for containing the second component (Y);a product tank (5) which is distinct from the second component tank (3), the product tank (5) being configured for being in fluid communication with a delivery line (8), for delivering the product from the product tank (5) to the at least one filling device (101);a feeding line (11) for feeding the product into the product tank (5);a brix detector (32) for detecting the brix of the second component (Y) being inputted from the second component tank (3) into the feeding line (11);wherein said brix detector (32) comprises at least one refractometer brix detector.

2. Preparation unit (1) according to claim 1, comprising:a first modulating valve (31) for influencing the flow rate of the second component (Y) being inputted from the second component tank (3) into the feeding line (11);an automatic control system (6) for automatically controlling said flow rate by means of said first modulating valve (31), as a function of the detected brix.

3. Preparation unit (1) according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a flow rate detector (34) for detecting said flow rate, said automatic control system (6) being configured for automatically controlling said flow rate by means of said first modulating valve (31), as a function of the detected brix, on the basis of the detected flow rate and by determining a target flow rate on the basis of the detected brix.

4. Preparation unit (1) according to any one or more of the previous Claims, comprising a transfer line (33) for transferring the second component (Y) from the second component tank (3) into the feeding line (11), said flow of the second component (Y) being along said transfer line (33).

5. Preparation unit (1) according to Claim 4, wherein said first modulating valve (31) operates along said transfer line (33).

6. Preparation unit (1) according to Claim 4 or 5, wherein said brix detector (32) operates along said transfer line (33).

7. Preparation unit (1) according to any one or more of Previous Claims, wherein the product is a carbonated product.

8. Preparation unit (1) according to any one or more of the previous Claims, comprising a carbon dioxide tank (4) for inputting carbon dioxide (Z) into the feeding line (11) so that the product is carbonated, the preparation unit (1) preferably comprising a second modulating valve (41) for influencing the flow rate of the carbon dioxide (Y) being inputted into the feeding line (11).

9. Filling apparatus (20) comprising:a preparation unit (1) according to any one or more of the previous Claims;said fdling machine (10).

10. Filling apparatus (20) according to Claim 9, wherein the fdling machine (10) is rotative, comprises a plurality of fdling devices (101), and comprises a carousel (102) on which the fdling devices (101) are angularly distributed.

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