DE102011084453A1 - Device for checking operability of inspection unit of beverage bottles in production line, has interrogation unit identifying test container based on marks, where device is formed to assign reference values to associated container - Google Patents

Abstract

The device has a test container (1) at which identification marks (7) and test features (3-6) are provided. A data memory stores reference values by which expected results for inspection of the test features are defined. An interrogation unit identifies the test container based on the identification marks, where the device is formed in such a manner that it assigns the individual reference values to the associated test container. The identification marks are comprised of a reflection film or a transponder i.e. radio frequency identification (RFID) transponder. An independent claim is also included for a method for checking operability of a container inspection unit.

Description

The invention relates to an apparatus and a method for checking container inspection units.

Inspection units for containers, such as beverage bottles and the like, are regularly inspected during production by inspecting test containers in the units which have similar test features to the structures to be recognized during production, such as fouling of the sidewall. If these are detected, a proper function of the inspection unit is assumed.

For this it is for example from the DE 299 10 452 U1 Known to provide test bottles with a concentric transponder, which contains a code for unambiguous identification of the test bottle. A control inspection associated with the test bottle, for example a sidewall inspection, and the associated measurement data evaluation can thereby be triggered automatically when the test bottle enters the inspection unit.

The DE 196 46 694 A1 further describes a test bottle in which a reflective film detectable by means of light barriers or metal detectors is provided for marking in the bottom region and a test feature, for example a chipping in the mouth region of the bottle.

The EP 1 838 589 B1 proposes to attach to containers electronically writable identification mark with information on a filled or filled product, with a time identifier, with a location identifier and / or with details of product processing.

However, in the test bottles and test methods mentioned above, there is a fundamental problem that changes to the test containers, such as dirt, damage or tampering, can cause false-positive control results. The reliability of the check is particularly limited if several test features are provided on a container.

Thus, there is a need for improved test devices and related methods in this regard.

The stated object is achieved with a device according to claim 1. Accordingly, test containers with identification marks and in each case at least one test feature are provided as well as at least one data memory for storing reference values with which target results for the inspection of the test features can be defined. With the aid of an interrogation unit for identifying the test containers on the basis of the identification marks, the device according to the invention can individually associate the associated reference values with the test containers. Thus, the test features that simulate, for example, a contamination or damage, assign quantifiable properties that increases the validity of the test inspections and difficult manipulations of test results. Test results can be individually and unmistakably compared with nominal values for each test container and for each test feature. In particular, individual test features can be identified and distinguished with greater reliability and measurements of deviations from predetermined test criteria can be made more accurately. The test container basically corresponds to a product container to be tested during ongoing production, such as a beverage bottle.

The reference values preferably characterize the test features with regard to their dimensions and / or their position on the test container and / or an interaction with a measuring radiation for inspection of the product containers. For example, dimensions for individual test features such as length, height, maximum diameter and the like may be specified. Likewise, a characteristic outline of the respective test feature can be given, for example a geometric shape and the like. The position of individual test features, such as the vertical position on the container sidewall or the radial position on the container bottom, can be quantified, as opposed to a purely qualitative indication, such as: sidewall inspection or ground control test containers.

Preferably, the interaction of the test feature with a measuring radiation is specified as a reference value. These are, for example, an absorptance, a transmittance and / or a reflectance of the measurement radiation to understand. It is also possible to specify the influencing of a measurement signal of the container inspection unit intended by the test feature or another quantifiable result such as an indication in the sense of opaque or the like.

In a favorable embodiment, in each case at least one data memory for storing the reference values is provided on the test containers, in particular on the identification mark. The reference values can then be read together with the identification data. In addition, the probability of a misallocation the reference values are reduced. However, the reference values can also be stored elsewhere and assigned to the respective test features after the identification.

Preferably, a plurality of test features for checking different functional areas of a corresponding product container are provided on the test container. As a result, less different test containers must be kept. By specifying individual test features, these can be distinguished from one another during the inspection of container inspection units, in order to avoid undesired interactions and / or disturbances by respectively neighboring test features. For example, the test containers are made by attaching the test features to a product container.

A particularly favorable embodiment of the identification mark according to the invention comprises a reflective foil and / or a transponder, in particular a transponder based on electromagnetic high-frequency radiation (RFID transponder). The latter allows a particularly high data density and thus small design of the identification mark. In addition, reference values and the like can be easily stored on the transponder. Thus, individual test features that have been determined, for example, by calibration, specify particularly comfortable. Likewise, the reference values could be updated as needed, for example after replacement of a component of the inspection unit. A reflective foil is particularly well protected against manipulation of the stored data. Reflective films and transponders could also be combined on a test container to combine the advantages mentioned.

In principle, all machine-readable media which can be attached to the container or integrated into it can be considered an identification tag. Particularly suitable are areas that are subject to little or no mechanical wear, such as areas inside the container or in the area of the container mouth. In particular, the identification marks in the devices according to the invention can be read automatically when passing through the test container in a continuous product flow.

At least one test feature is preferably provided in the region of the side wall of the test container and / or in the region of the bottom of the test container and / or in the region of a closure thread of the test container and / or in the region of a closure sealing surface. This allows different test measurements with a single test container perform or combine with each other. However, it may also be sufficient to provide at least reference values for the size and the measurement signal attenuation of the test feature. Thus, with only a small amount of data, a considerable increase in the test quality for each individual test container can already be achieved. This is particularly advantageous when storing the reference values on identification marks having a comparatively low data density, for example in the case of reflective films and the like.

In a further particularly advantageous embodiment, the test feature is a liquid filled into the test container except for a predetermined fill level. This makes it possible, for example, to check a unit for alkali detection particularly reliably. For example, a beam attenuation previously caused by the liquid under proper conditions can be measured and given individually for the test container as a reference or setpoint.

The reference values preferably include information about the height of the predetermined filling level and / or a measuring beam attenuation by the liquid. These reference values could be previously measured and stored individually for the test container, for example on the identification tag. This provides additional security against manipulation of the test container.

In a particularly favorable embodiment, the test container and / or the test feature is provided with a seal. The seal protects the test feature against manipulation. Preferably, the seal is designed so that a manipulation causes a noticeable seal breakage. This could be recognized visually and / or by machine.

A particularly advantageous embodiment comprises an evaluation unit for calculating or comparing the target results with measurement results determined on the test features in the container inspection unit. In particular, impermissible and permissible deviations can be distinguished from the desired values and / or classifiable admissible deviations with respect to an error probability and / or integrated into an error analysis.

Preferably, the inspection unit further comprises an output device which outputs a warning signal when a permissible deviation of the measurement result from the target result is exceeded. An operator may then check a rejected test container and replace it with a proper test container if necessary. Likewise, a fault diagnosis can be initiated at the inspection unit.

A particularly favorable embodiment of the device according to the invention is also designed to automatically put the container inspection unit into an operating state for test inspection of at least one test container after identification of the identification marks. In particular, an automatic change takes place from an operating mode for inspecting the product containers. Thus, the inspection of the container inspection unit can be automatically integrated into an ongoing production process, with minimal disturbance of the production operation and maximum improvement in the reliability of the inspection.

• a) Zuführen von Testbehältern, an denen jeweils eine Identifizierungsmarke und wenigstens ein Testmerkmal vorgesehen sind;
• b) Identifizieren der Testbehälter anhand der Identifizierungsmarken im Bereich der Behälterinspektionseinheit und Zuordnen von gespeicherten Referenzwerten zu den Testmerkmalen, um Sollergebnisse für die Inspektion der Testmerkmale zu definieren;
• c) Inspizieren der Testbehälter; und
• d) Vergleichen von Messergebnissen aus dem Schritt c) mit den Sollergebnissen.

The object is further achieved with a method for checking the operability of a container inspection unit, comprising the steps:

• a) feeding test containers, on each of which an identification mark and at least one test feature are provided;
• b) identifying the test containers based on the identification marks in the area of the container inspection unit and associating stored reference values with the test features to define target results for the inspection of the test features;
• c) inspecting the test containers; and
• d) comparing measurement results from step c) with the result of the results.

Preferably, the method further comprises a step e) of storing comparison results from step d). This allows a comprehensive evaluation of the test inspections at a later date or a comparison with previously collected data.

A particularly advantageous embodiment further comprises a step f) of evaluating a chronological sequence of comparison results which were determined on a specific test feature or on mutually corresponding test features of different test containers. As a result, it is possible to assess a time course of comparison results over a plurality of test inspections which are distributed in a timely manner in the current product flow. For example, a trend towards a continuously imminent malfunction can be detected before the malfunction actually occurs in the ongoing product flow. Product safety can be additionally increased.

Preferred embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawing. Show it:

1 a schematic side view of a first embodiment of a test container according to the invention;

2 a schematic side view of a second embodiment of a test container according to the invention; and

3 an embodiment of the device according to the invention for checking container inspection units.

As the 1 and 3 can recognize, are on a first embodiment 1 of the test container according to the invention for checking an inspection unit 23 for corresponding product container P, for example, several first test features 3 for simulating contamination and / or damage in a sidewall area 1a of the test container 1 provided, second test features 4 for simulating contamination and / or damage in the soil area 1b , a third test feature 5 for simulating contamination and / or damage to an upper sealing surface in the mouth region 1c and a fourth test feature 6 for simulating contamination and / or damage in a side portion of the mouth region 1c , This could for example also be a threaded portion. The test features 3 to 6 thus generally serve to simulate sources of error at the corresponding product containers P. The test container 1 can be made in known manner from glass or plastic.

The number and position of the first to fourth test features 3 to 6 could differ in any way from the example shown. Similarly, not all functional areas mentioned 1a to 1c of the test container 1 with test features 3 to 6 to be occupied. In the example shown, a test bottle with a crown cap is indicated. It could just as well be a test bottle with a screw cap. In this case, for example, the fourth test feature 6 be a material outbreak for thread control and / or be provided more test characteristics.

The first to fourth test features 3 to 6 are on the test container 1 provided at defined positions and in predetermined sizes, for example in the form of stickers, imprints, material outbreaks and the like. These test features 3 to 6 are, if technically possible or practicable, preferably in the interior of the test container 1 attached to make it difficult to wear, damage or manipulation by external influences. But test features according to the invention can also on the outside of the test container 1 be produced by targeted mechanical damage, such as thread breaks in the form of complete and smooth eruptions, or sealing surface damage.

The position of the test features 3 to 6 is exemplary of the vertical position Y of one of the first test features 3 indicated the dimensions of the test characteristics 3 to 6 by way of example with reference to the associated diameter X1 and the length X2 of the fourth test feature 6 , The position of individual test features 3 to 6 but could also be by a lateral or radial position X3, for example, measured from the main axis 1d of the test container 1 be defined by a rotational position (not shown) about the major axis 1d relative to a transport direction or a specific reference point, by coordinates in a particular view of the test container 1 and more. The size of individual test features 3 to 6 could also be defined by side lengths in polygonal shaped test features, major and minor axis lengths in oval test features, and the like.

The test features 3 to 6 can be transparent, semi-transparent or opaque, depending on the source of error to be simulated. It is also possible to have different test features in an inspection area of the test container 1 for example, partially transparent and opaque test features 4 in the ground area 1b , Preferably, the test features 3 to 6 a specific or absolute beam attenuation known for a measuring radiation used to inspect the product container P, which corresponds to the respective test feature 3 to 6 can be assigned as a reference value. The measuring radiation is, for example, light or high-frequency radiation.

At the test container 1 is also an identification mark 7 provided, for example in the form of a passive transponder. This is preferably an RFID tag which, for better readability, is preferably concentric about the major axis 1d of the test container 1 is appropriate. On the identification mark 7 is information for individual identification of the individual test containers 1 saved. Preferably, on the identification mark 7 furthermore reference values R of the test characteristics 3 to 6 saved. However, the reference values R can also be stored at any other location, provided that their unique assignment to the test container 1 is guaranteed.

The reference values R according to the invention serve to quantify errors arising from the individual test features 3 to 6 simulated during test inspections and if the inspected unit functions properly 23 to be recognized by this. The reference values R can either be set values for the test inspection of the test container 1 be used or as a basis for calculation to define a target value or another Sollergebnis the test inspection. For example, the dimensions and / or positions of individual test features 3 to 6 are used as reference values R in order to define a specific image pattern in the image-providing evaluation of the test inspection as a result.

The reference values R include, for example, the position data and / or size specifications X1-X3, Y of the test features described above 3 to 6 and / or information on the desired interaction of the test characteristics 3 to 6 suitable reference values R are, for example, values or ranges of the beam attenuation, transmission or reflectance of a test feature 3 to 6 in the proper condition of the inspected inspection unit 23 occur. However, the reference values R according to the invention do not necessarily have to be on the test containers 1 itself, but can be stored centrally, for example, and after identification of individual test containers 1 be assigned to this for the test inspection. In addition, in addition to the identification marks 7 separate data carriers for the reference values R on the test containers 1 be provided.

The dimensions of suitable first test features 3 are for example in the range of 3 to 5 mm for the diameter X1, between 1 and 5 mm for sealing surface damage and between 5 and 10 mm for thread breaks.

If the product containers P include areas with imprints, inscriptions, grooves and the like, the test features become 3 to 6 on the test containers 1 preferably provided with a minimum distance of 10 mm to such structures in order to obtain sufficient measurement accuracy for the test inspection of the test container 1 to ensure.

In the 1 Dashed is also an optional seal 9 indicated schematically, for example in the form of a transparent protective cap with which the test characteristics 3 to 6 protected against unauthorized manipulation. The seal 9 is preferably designed so that a seal break is evident and / or a in the review of the test container 1 changes the registered measurement signal in a characteristic way to alert an operator to a seal break.

The 2 shows a second embodiment 11 of the test container according to the invention, which differs from the first embodiment by the nature of the test feature 13 in the form of one in the test container 11 up to a predetermined level F1 or F2 filled liquid, such as water, and by the type of identification mark 17 in the second embodiment 11 is designed as a reflective foil or the like.

With the second embodiment 11 For example, it is possible to check an inspection device for lye inspection. Again, the identification mark includes 17 preferably, but not necessarily, at least one reference value R of the test feature 17 , For example, the level of F1 or F2 and / or a characteristic value for a expected when the functioning of the inspected inspection unit measurement signal, for example, according to a beam attenuation.

With the reflective foil 17 identification data and / or reference data can be invariably and cheaply on the test container 11 especially if only a few reference values R are needed to check the functionality. In contrast, allow identification marks 7 with transponder function a greater data density and a storage or overwriting of reference values R after attaching the identification mark 7 on the test container 1 . 11 , This makes it possible, for example, to adapt reference values R to changed measuring conditions. This could be after a maintenance action by the inspection unit concerned 23 be beneficial.

The 3 illustrates an embodiment of the device according to the invention 21 for checking container inspection units with the test containers according to the invention.

Accordingly, the device of the invention is used 21 for example, to check an inspection unit 23 for sidewall inspection of product containers P, such as beverage bottles, and includes an interrogator 25 that the identification marks 7 , for example in the form of transponders, on incoming test containers 1 recognize and read out. It is also an evaluation device 27 provided with the inspection unit 23 on the test containers 1 The measured values M which are compared with the result values which can correspond to the reference values R according to the invention or are calculated from these. For example, it checks if the on one of the test features 3 of the test container 1 measured values M lie within a setpoint range S1 to S2 defined with the aid of the reference values R, which determines the functional capability of the inspection unit 23 characterized. Alternatively, any comparison criteria are conceivable.

If measured values M are outside of associated target ranges, for example, a warning message W is sent by means of a likewise provided output unit 29 generated. This can be an audible alarm, a message on a screen, and the like.

The reference values R according to the invention, for example comprising the position information and / or size data X1-X3, Y, F1, F2 of the test characteristics 3 to 6 and 13 , could also be in the query unit 25 , the evaluation unit 27 , the inspection unit 23 and / or a suitable central storage medium (not shown). It would then be sufficient, the test container 1 . 11 with the query unit 25 to identify and read the reference values R from the respective storage medium and the test container 1 . 11 , in particular its individual test features 3 to 6 . 13 assigned. It is preferably for each individual test container 1 . 11 a separate record with reference values R held. The reference values R allow, in contrast to a purely qualitative assignment of the test container 1 . 11 for a specific measurement task a direct comparison of by means of the test characteristics 3 to 6 obtained measured values M with allowable setpoints or setpoint ranges S1-S2.

As a result, impermissible deviations can be quantified directly, but also classify permissible deviations and / or observe over a certain period of time to determine a trend and / or plausibility over several test inspections and to preempt a faulty inspection of the product container P in the current product flow. For example, several inspections of a particular test feature 3 to 6 on one and the same test container 1 . 11 compared or more inspections of mutually corresponding features 3 to 6 on different test containers 1 . 11 , In particular, a specific test feature can be used 13 , For example, based on the reference value R of the level F1, to a plurality of test containers 11 Check at appropriate time intervals and record and compare deviations of the measurement results from the respective target results.

Like in the 3 also indicated, the test containers 1 . 11 as part of a test program in a direction indicated by arrows, continuous product flow from product containers P and introduced in the device according to the invention 21 to check the inspection unit 23 automatically identified to initiate a test inspection mode of operation. This will be the test container 1 . 11 in the area of the inspection unit 23 Not only individually logged in and identified, but also for each test container 1 . 11 , and in particular for individual characteristics 3 to 6 . 13 , individual reference values R for inspection of the test characteristics 3 to 6 . 13 on the test containers 1 . 11 provided.

The reference values R can be individual and unmistakable for each test container 1 . 11 to be provided. This increases the reliability of the check and makes unauthorized manipulation of the check more difficult.

Individual features of the described embodiments 1 . 11 . 21 can be combined with each other in a technically meaningful manner or exchanged or omitted depending on the type of inspection.

A particularly efficient form of functional control results if at least one of the embodiments described above 1 . 11 . 21 or a suitable mixed variant of these embodiments is combined in the context of a first test mode for checking the inspection accuracy based on individual reference values R with a second test mode for controlling the feature recognition in the sense of a conventional state decision, such as "feature detected" / "feature unrecognized". The first and the second test mode could alternate in a predetermined time scheme and / or as required, for example as a function of a previously determined error frequency.

It is also advantageous if the first test mode is used exclusively or predominantly during production breaks, for example before the start of production, after the end of production, during breaks in operation, during shift changes, during product changes and the like. The second test mode then additionally requires, during ongoing production, only recognition of the respective test features, for example at regular time intervals.

With such a method of operation, the technically and possibly more time-consuming first test mode can be shifted to a period not required for the production. In addition, a reduction of the production output by the function control can be minimized overall.

The test container according to the invention 1 . 11 are preferably suitable for both the first and the second test mode.

In particular, an improvement in quality control can be achieved with the first test mode. The second test mode may be arbitrarily inserted as a routine inspection at appropriate time intervals between inspections of the first test mode. It is particularly advantageous if at least two inspections according to the second test mode are performed between two inspections according to the first test mode.

Thus, particularly demanding and meaningful inspection criteria can be provided with the first test mode, for example the observance of upper limits and lower limits, desired coordinates, contrast transitions, feature forms and the like. In addition, inspection criteria that are easier to evaluate can be provided with the second test mode, for example the exceeding or falling below a single limit value. By this is meant, for example, a certain beam attenuation. It is advantageous here that the test features are used in both test modes in order to increase the reliability of the second test mode.

Here, the combination of the first test mode with the second test mode is to be understood as an independent problem solution for a particularly efficient production process with regular and / or demand-dependent functional testing of an associated inspection unit.

Nevertheless, a combination of the first and second modes of operation with features of the claimed devices and methods is particularly advantageous.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 29910452 U1 [0003]
• DE 19646694 A1 [0004]
• EP 1838589 B1 [0005]

Claims (15)

Contraption ( 21 ) for checking the operability of a container inspection unit ( 23 ), with: - test containers ( 1 . 11 ) where identification marks ( 7 . 17 ) and at least one test feature ( 3 - 6 . 13 ) are provided; At least one data memory for storing reference values (R), with which target results for the inspection of the test features can be defined; and a query unit ( 25 ) for identifying the test containers on the basis of the identification marks, wherein the device ( 21 ) is designed such that it can assign the associated reference values to the test containers individually. Device according to claim 1, wherein the reference values (R) are the test characteristics ( 3 - 6 . 13 ) with regard to their dimensions (X1, X2, F1, F2) and / or their position (X3, Y) on the test container ( 1 . 11 ) and / or an interaction with a measuring radiation characterize. Apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein on the test containers ( 1 . 11 ) at least one data memory for storing the reference values (R) is provided, in particular on the identification mark ( 7 . 17 ). Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein on the test container ( 1 . 11 ) several test features ( 3 - 6 . 13 ) to check different functional areas ( 1a - 1c ) of a corresponding product container (P) are provided. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the identification mark ( 7 . 17 ) comprises a reflective foil or a transponder, in particular an RFID transponder. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one test feature ( 3 - 6 ) in the area ( 1a ) of the side wall of the test container ( 1 ) and / or in the area ( 1b ) of the bottom of the test container and / or in the region of a closure thread of the test container and / or in the region ( 1c ) is attached a closure sealing surface. Device according to at least one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the test feature ( 13 ) one to a predetermined level (F1, F2) in the test container ( 11 ) is filled liquid. Apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the reference values (R) include information on the height of the predetermined filling level (F1, F2) and / or a measuring beam attenuation by the liquid. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the test container ( 1 . 11 ) and / or the test feature ( 3 - 6 . 13 ) with a seal ( 9 ) is provided. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, further comprising an evaluation unit ( 27 ) for calculating and / or comparing the target results with the test features ( 3 - 6 . 13 ) in the container inspection unit ( 23 ) determined measurement results (M). Apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising an output device ( 29 ) for outputting a warning message (W) when an allowable deviation of the measurement result (M) from the target result is exceeded. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the device is further designed to control the container inspection unit ( 23 ) after identification of the identification mark ( 7 . 17 ) automatically into an operating state for test inspection of at least one test container ( 1 . 11 ) to move. Method for checking the operability of a container inspection unit ( 23 ), comprising the steps of: a) feeding test containers ( 1 . 11 ), on each of which an identification mark ( 7 . 17 ) and at least one test feature ( 3 - 6 . 13 ) are provided; b) identifying the test containers based on the identification marks in the area of the container inspection unit and associating stored reference values (R) with the test features to define target results for the inspection of the test features; c) inspecting the test containers; and d) comparing measurement results (M) from step c) with the result of the results. The method of claim 13, further comprising a step e) of storing comparison results of step d). The method of claim 14, further comprising a step f) of evaluating a time sequence of comparison results that are based on a specific test feature ( 3 - 6 . 13 ) or corresponding test features ( 3 - 6 . 11 ) of different test containers ( 1 . 11 ) were determined.

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